This immune boosting herb has long been used to not only treat but also prevent diseases.  Astragalus only gained popularity in the 1980′s in the United States, but in China it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.  Astragalus is a frail looking plant, but is really very hardy.  It has a sweet-smelling, pale yellow blossom and the roots are mainly used for herbal remedies.

Over 2000 species of Astragalus exist, but only 2 are used in herbal remedies:  Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus.  In North America there are several species that are highly poisonous to livestock and are called “locoweed,” but these species of Astragalus are very different from the disease fighting species.

One of the main benefits of Astragalus is that it is safe to use with conventional medicine and will not interfere with any standard treatment.  

The root of the Astragalus plant contains numerous health-promoting substances, one of which is polysaccharides, which is a class of carbohydrates which are responsible for this herbal remedy’s immune enhancing effects.  The other substances are saponins, astragalosides, flavonoids and triterpenes.

Health practitioners prescribe Astragalus as a general health tonic as it enhances your overall health by improving resistance to disease, increasing your stamina and vitality and promotes general wellbeing. This herbal supplement is also an adaptogen, which means that it will greatly increase your body’s resistance to stress, trauma, anxiety and fatigue.

Astragalus has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.  In addition, it also has antioxidant properties, which means that it can protect your body from cell hurt caused by free radicals.  

This herbal treatment is especially effective in treating and preventing the common cold, flu, sinus infections and bronchitis as it prevents viruses from gaining a foothold in the respiratory system.  Just like Echinacea, Astragalus can stop a disease from the onset of the first symptoms.  If a disease does develop, Astragalus can shorten the duration of the disease and lessen the severity of symptoms.

People undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer will benefit greatly from using Astragalus on a regular basis as this herb rebuilds their immune systems and helps to repair hurt caused by cancer treatments.  Using Astragalus will also protect bone marrow from the immune-suppressing effects of chemotherapy and radiation.  This herb is also used to help the body”s production of T cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, interferon and other immune cells as these cells are often ruined by chemotherapy and radiation.  

Recent research indicates that Astragalus may offer antioxidant benefits in people who suffer from heart disease, relieving symptoms and improving heart function.  The first study revealed that if a patient takes Astragalus within 36 hours of a heart attack, it could enhance the functioning of the heart”s left ventricle, which is the chamber responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood through the body.  The second study was conducted to prove that Astragalus could prevent chest pain, or angina.  Astragalus produced better results than a well-known prescription medication commonly used for this condition.

Astragalus root may also help reduce high cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure by widening blood vessels and improving blood circulation.  The Astragalus root also acts as a mild diuretic.

In addition, this herb can aid digestion by inhibiting gastric secretions and reducing gastric acid, which makes Astragalus helpful in curing stomach ulcers. 

Ongoing research is being conducted into the use of Astragalus to treat HIV and other autoimmune diseases such as lupus.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care. After centuries of use, few side effects have been reported by people using Astragalus, but, because of its immune-enhancing benefits, people who receive organ transplants should not use this herb.

To boost your immune system, take 200 mg of Astragalus once or twice a day for a period of three weeks.  Then alternate, in three week periods, with cat”s claw, echinacea and pau d”arco.  Choose a product that contains a standardized extract of this herb with 0,5% glucosides and 70% polysaccharides.

Creams and ointments containing Astragalus are readily available at health stores and will help with wound healing and stop wounds and ulcers from becoming septic.

You can add dried Astragalus root to soup, stews or rice dishes.  Let it simmer for 30 minutes, then remove the herb as it is tough to chew.  This not only adds flavour to these dishes but also makes it simple to add immune-enhancing properties to your food.

Tags: radiation treatment, immune systems, high cholesterol, Common cold, Astragalus plant

Valerian has been used by mankind for many thousands of years as a treatment for sleeping disorders, insomnia and various other ailments.

This herbal Medicine is found in parts of Asia, Europe and in North America.

Valerian has many names as do most herbal medicines. These include garden valerian, garden heliotrope and all-heal.

Usually the underground stem and the roots of Valerian are used to manufacture herbal supplements.

Valerian has been used to treat sleeping disorders such as mild insomnia, poor sleep and difficulty in falling asleep.

Anxiety can also be treated using Valerian. Other common uses are for treating headaches, depression and irregular heartbeat.

Valerian has the ability to help in relaxing the central nervous system, this in turns promotes better sleep, lower anxiety and feeling of calmness.

One of the common benefits of Valerian, is that the morning after using it, there is no morning drowsiness or grogginess.

The effects of Valerian for sleep disorders seems to improve if taken for one to two weeks consistently.

This herbal Medicine does not interfere in sleep patterns or deep sleep.

There are reports of Valerian lessening menstrual cramps and stomach cramps.

Generally, side effects from Valerian are relatively rare, but these might include a mild headache, upset stomach and an abnormal heartbeat.

If you are already under a medical practitioners’’ care, please consult them prior to taking any herbal medicine.

On occasion, more severe allergic reactions have been reported.

There are several common forms available for Valerian. Many of the supplements are mixed with other herbal extracts to increase or heighten the desired effect.

Some of the common forms are capsules, tablets, teas and even tinctures.

Tags: Sleep disorders, severe allergic reactions, medical practitioners, Flora of Lithuania, underground stem

Welcome to the first edition of the Herbal Meds Online newsletter! Over the last few months we have been working hard to build Herbal Meds Online.  Our aim with this website is to inform and educate people about the benefits and uses of herbal supplements, remedies and medicines.

In our first edition, we will be covering a variety of topics ranging from the origins of herbal medicines to useful hints and tips regarding herbal remedies. In every edition, you can expect a summary of a specific herb and its uses and also a summary of a specific condition that can be treated with an herbal medicine.  We will also cover a range of informative topics related to herbal medicines and supplements.

We hope that the information will be of benefit to you and anyone who might be considering alternative treatments. 1)   The origins of herbal medicines 2)   Basic types of supplements

3)   Evening Primrose Oil – a herbal remedy used to treat skin conditions

4)   Endometriosis – a painful menstrual condition

5)   Hints and Fascinating Facts

6)   Herbal Medicine quote of the month

7)   Reminder

Here is a brief history of key dates in the development of herbal medicines:  2800BC – First written record of herbal medicines, the Pen Ts’ao by Shen Nung
C400BC – Hippocrates develops principles of diet, exercise and happiness as the cornerstones of health
C100BC – First illustrated herbal guide produced in Greece
C50AD – Roman Empire spreads herbal medicine and commerce of plants around the Empire
C200AD – Herbal practitioner, Galen, makes system for classifying illnesses and remedies
C500AD – Hippocrates’ principles followed in Britain by Myddfai practitioners throughout Saxon times
C800AD – Monks now pioneer herbal medicine with infirmaries and physic gardens at every monastery
1100sAD – Arab world now major influence on medicine and healing practices and the physician Avicenna writes the Canon of Medicine
1200sAD – Black Death spreads across Europe; ‘qualified’ apothecaries try bleeding, purging, mercury and arsenic to stem the epidemic with no more success than traditional herbalists
1500sAD – Henry VII promotes herbal medicine in the face of the growing number of untrained apothecaries and other ‘medical practitioners’ flourishing in London
Various Acts of Parliament passed to introduce some regulation of medical practices including protection for ‘simple herbalists’ to practice without dread of prosecution
1600sAD – Society sees the first two-tier health system emerge – herbs for the poor and exotics (plant, animal or mineral extracts) or ‘drugs’ for the rich
Nicholas Culpepper writes his well-known herbal paper: The English Physician, explaining in simple terms the practice of herbal medicine
1700sAD – Preacher Charles Wesley advocates a sensible diet, excellent hygiene and herbal medicine as the keys to a healthy life
1800sAD – Herbal medicines start to be eclipsed by mineral-drug based treatments. With powerful drugs such as calomel (mercury) and laudanum available over the counter serious side effects start to be documented.
Albert Coffin pioneers low-cost herbal remedies using plants from his native America as well as European ones helping hundreds of working class people at his North England practice.
Burgeoning pharmaceuticals industry makes herbal medicine seem outdated. National Association of Medical Herbalists founded to defend the practice. Later to become the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
1900sAD – Medicinal herbals used extensively during World War I as drugs are in small supply.
Post war period sees enormous expansion in the international pharmaceuticals industry and the discovery of penicillin
A handful of dedicated herbalists keep the tradition alive.
A Modern Herbal by Hilda Leyel is published.
Pharmacy & Medicines Act 1941 withdraws herbal practitioner’s rights to supply patients with medicines. Public outcry ensures the Act is never enforced.
After much campaigning by the NIMH, the Medicines Act in 1968 reinstates practitioners’ rights and the British Herbal Medicine Association is founded.
The BHMA produce the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Revised edition is published in 1990. Public concern starts to grow over the side effects of the ‘wonder drugs’ of the 1950s and their impact on the environment.
2000AD – EU legislation advocates all herbal medicines should be subject to compulsory clinical testing comparable to that undertaken for conventional drugs. Thus all herbal medicines would be licensed.
UK government currently considering the possible impact and public perception of this legislation.

(Information taken from “Herbal Remedies” by Jan Balkam, published by Bookmart Limited)

There are basically four types of supplements:

Vitamins A chemically organic substance essential for regulating both the metabolic functions within the cells and the biochemical processes that release energy from food. There are 13 known vitamins and these are categorized as either stout-soluble (A, D, E and K) and water-soluble (eight B-vitamins and C.)  Stout-soluble vitamins stay in the body for relative long periods of time and water-soluble vitamins remain in the body for a small time. With a few exceptions, the body cannot manufacture vitamins. Minerals Minerals are present in your body in small amounts and are essential for a wide range of vital processes. Your body contains 60 minerals but only 22 of these minerals are considered to be essential and are classified as macro minerals and trace minerals / micro minerals. Macro minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, chloride, and potassium.   Micro minerals include iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, and chromium. Herbs Herbal supplements are prepared from plants using the leaves, stems, roots and/or bark as well as the buds and flowers. Plant parts are refined into tablets, capsules, powders, tinctures and other formulations. Herbs have several active compounds that interact with one another to produce a therapeutic effect. Herbs are used to treat health conditions, to prevent health conditions as well as to maintain excellent health in general.Nutritional supplements These supplements are classified as to possessing disease-fighting potential. Nutritional supplements include compounds found in fruits and vegetables which work to lower the risk of disease. (Information taken from “The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals and Herbs” published by Reader’s Digest) Native Americans valued the Evening Primrose plant for its healing powers and there is evidence that European settlers used the plant to treat a variety of skin ailments. This wildflower grows in North America and Europe and its light yellow flowers open at dusk.  The Evening Primrose plant is often mistaken for a weed in gardens.

Evening Primrose oil contains omega-6 fatty acids, which can help to regulate insulin absorption and can even help to regulate your heartbeat. The human body does not manufacture fatty acids on its own, therefore taking Evening Primrose oil supplements can improve your general health.

Several studies have shown the benefits of taking Evening Primrose oil supplements to treat atopic dermatitis, or eczema.  Due to its high GLA content, Evening Primrose oil is very effective to treat a variety of menstrual disorders.

Menopausal women have also benefited from taking Evening Primrose oil supplements as this herbal remedy assists to alleviate the flushing as well as mood swings experienced by menopausal women. Evening Primrose oil lessens the inflammation of acne as well as rosacea.

(Information taken from article published on our website www.herbal-meds-online.com)
Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of cells that form in the lining of the uterus. Each month, as estrogen and other hormones cause the lining of the uterus to thicken with blood, these abnormal cells also expand.  Sometimes a collection of blood, called a cyst, can form.  These endometrial cysts are common on the ovaries.

Here is a list of common symptoms experienced by women with Endometriosis:   Abnormally heavy, menstrual bleeding often with large clots.  Severe menstrual cramps which starts before your period starts and reaches its peak after your period ends.  Nausea or vomiting just before your menstrual period.  Sharp pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse at any time of the month.  Infertility.  Incapacitating pain in the uterus, lower back or pelvic area.  Diarrhea or constipation during your menstrual cycle.  Iron-deficiency anemia due to heavy bleeding.  Severe pain due to endometrial cysts rupturing.Start herbal treatment by taking a combination of Dong Quai and Chasteberry.  Taking high doses of calcium and magnesium can help with painful menstrual cramps.

Flaxseed oil and Evening Primrose oil is useful to help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with Endometriosis. (Information taken from article published on our website www.herbal-meds-online.com)

When buying Evening Primrose Oil supplements, experts recommend looking for a supplement that contains a small amount of vitamin E.  The fatty acids in Evening Primrose Oil break down quickly and vitamin E slows this process down.A study from the University of Massachusetts Medical Center showed that very high doses of GLA found in Evening Primrose Oil reduced hurt to joint tissue in people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. (Information taken from “The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals and Herbs” published by Reader’s Digest)

“The highest ideal of cure is the speedy, gentle, and enduring restoration of health by the most trustworthy and least harmful way.”

Samuel Hahnemann, founder of Homeopathy Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.  Pregnant or lactating women and children under 16 years of age should not be using herbal remedies or supplements unless prescribed by a medical practitioner.  Suggestions offered are not intended to replace appropriate medical investigation and treatment.

Tags: Hilda Leyel, Dong Quai, skin conditions, Albert Coffin, North America

The Cherokee and other Native American tribes used Goldenseal for everything from insect bites to eye infections. Today, Goldenseal is officially recognized in 11 countries as an herbal medicine.

Goldenseal is related to the buttercup and is native to North America. Only the roots are used as an herbal medicine.

The name Goldenseal comes from the scars on the previous year”s root growth, which resembles the wax seals used to seal envelopes.

How can Goldenseal help me?

Goldenseal”s primary benefit is its effect on the immune system. Goldenseal does not only increase the immune system’s production of germ-fighting compounds, it also combats viruses and bacteria.

This herbal remedy has a excellent reputation as a natural antibiotic, therefore taking Goldenseal at the onset of a sinus infection will not only relieve the symptoms, but will fight the infection itself.

The berberine content in Goldenseal has very strong antibiotic and antiseptic qualities, which makes this herbal medicine a very effective natural alternative to antibiotics commonly prescribed.

Goldenseal fights the human papilloma virus that causes warts and applying Goldenseal tincture directly to warts can help to heal these unsightly skin lesions.

Goldenseal is also used to treat urinary tract infections as well as intestinal infections.

Goldenseal can be used topically to treat mouth ulcers and sores. Used as a tincture, Goldenseal promotes the healing of the sores. Using Goldenseal as an antiseptic mouthwash is also very effective to treat the inflammation of sore throats.

In treating periodontal disease, Goldenseal destroys the bacteria that cause the disease and relieves inflamed gums.

Cooled Goldenseal tea can be used as an eyewash to relieve and treat eye infections such as conjunctivitis.

Goldenseal was used by the early Native Americans to treat a variety of stomach disorders. Several scientific studies have proven that Goldenseal increases the flow of digestive enzymes, thereby treating heartburn, constipation, indigestion as well as inflamed peptic ulcers.

Goldenseal is also an effective herbal remedy used to cool a nauseated stomach.

Goldenseal soothes inflamed mucous membranes and has long been used to treat infections of the respiratory system because it eases congestion.

As Goldenseal is one of the main herbal remedies used to strengthen your immune system, it is very effective in treating disorders associated with a weakened immune system, such as shingles and cold sores.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Pregnant or lactating women should not use Goldenseal or any herbs containing berberine.

Goldenseal limits the efficacy of anticoagulants such as Warfarin.

If you are taking antibiotics such as tetracycline, do not use Goldenseal in conjunction with the antibiotics.

People with glaucoma should not use Goldenseal to treat eye infections.

As Goldenseal is a natural antiseptic, it can reduce the presence of “excellent” bacteria in the digestive system, thereby causing diarrhea and nausea.

Prolonged use of Goldenseal can affect the absorption of the B-group of vitamins.

Do not take Goldenseal for prolonged periods of time, rather use it in rotation with other immune-support herbal remedies such as Echinacea.

To treat colds, flu and other respiratory illnesses, start taking 125 mg of Goldenseal five times a day for five days as soon as you start feeling ill.

For urinary tract infections, drink several cups of Goldenseal tea a day for a period of 3 days.

To help in healing cold sores and shingles, take 125 mg of Goldenseal four times a day.

Apply Goldenseal tincture directly to mouth ulcers and warts three times a day.

To make an eyewash from Goldenseal, use one teaspoon of dried herb per 500 ml of hot water. Let the tea steep and then make sure that you strain it thoroughly to avoid any gritty bits staying behind. Use the cooled Goldenseal tea as an eyewash three times a day.

Tags: herbal remedies, native american tribes, herbal remedy, antiseptic mouthwash, Health Medical Pharma

White willow bark comes from the white willow tree, which can grow up to 23 meters tall.  This tree is native to Europe and Asia and the name “white willow” comes from the leaves, which are covered with fine white hairs.

Chinese herbalists used this natural pain killer for centuries and in the 18th century Western medicine recognized white willow as a pain reliever and fever reducer.  European settlers brought the white willow tree to North America, where they learned that the local people were already using some of the native willow species to alleviate pain and fight fevers.

German and French scientists isolated the plant”s active ingredient – salicin – in 1828.  A decade later, European chemists manufactured salicylic acid, a chemical related to aspirin, from salicin.  Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, was later made from another herb containing salicin.  At the end of the 19th century, the Bayer company had started to commercially produce aspirin.

Concentrations of salicin are highest in the bark of the white willow and Salix alba is the most well loved species used for medicinal purposes.

The salicin that comes from white willow bark is metabolized in your body to form salicylic acid, which reduces inflammation, pain and fever.  Even though this herb is slower acting than aspiring, the beneficial effects of white willow bark last longer and has fewer side effects than aspirin.  The most vital fact is that white willow bark does not cause stomach bleeding like commercially available aspirin.

White willow bark is most effective at relieving headaches and severe muscle pain.  The symptoms that are commonly associated with flu (fever, muscle aches, headache) are also greatly relieved when you use white willow bark.

White willow bark is also very effective in alleviating toothache.

Research conducted proved that people who suffer from osteoarthritis benefit from using low doses of white willow bark daily to relieve chronic pain associated with this debilitating condition.  White willow bark reduces the swelling and inflammation associated with rheumatic conditions and increases joint mobility.

Women will also benefit by taking white willow bark as it eases the pain of menstrual cramps.  Hormone-like chemicals called prostaglandins cause the pain associated with the menstrual cycle and the salicin in white willow bark helps to regulate these hormones.

Recently, white willow bark has become well loved as a weight loss herbal supplement.  On its own, white willow bark extract offers small benefits, but combined with other dietary supplements it is thought to increase the thermogenic activity of several other stout burning products by increasing energy expenditure and promoting stout metabolism.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

High doses of white willow bark can cause stomach upsets, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and nausea.  If any of these side effects occur, lower the dosage or stop taking the herb.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take willow bark.

White willow bark has an anti-coagulant effect and people using blood-thinning medication such as Warfarin should not take this herbal remedy.

People who are using beta-blockers for high blood pressure should not take white willow bark as it may make the drugs less effective.

Do not use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen with white willow bark as it might increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Do not give white willow bark to children under the age of 16 as it can cause a potentially fatal brain and liver condition known as Reye”s syndrome.

Make sure that you buy white willow bark extract standardized to contain 15% salicin.  Do not buy white willow bark tea, as you would need to consume several liters to get an effective dose.

To reduce pain and inflammation and lower a fever take one or two pills three times a day, or as needed.  Follow the instructions given by your health care practitioner.

White willow bark is safe to use over the long term.  It has a very bitter taste, so the most convenient way to take it is in pill form.

Tags: chinese herbalists, relieving headaches, european settlers, beneficial effects, willow bark

For Centuries, the North American Indians has been uses Echinacea for its medicinal value. Echinacea is often referred to the as the Purple ConeFlower due to its purple summer flowers but  also goes by the name American ConeFlower or just coneflower.

There are several species of Echinacea, but not all of these species can be used as herbal medicines.Echinacea angustifolia  is the most commonly used species for herbal remedies.

Echinacea is found only in North America.

For many centuries, the American Indians have known that the main benefit from Echinacea is the immune system boosting powers this herbal remedy possesses.

For us today, one of the greatest benefits Echinacea has to offer, is increasing our body’s power to fight off colds and flu. This herbal medicine is most effective when it is used just before you get the cold or flu. Just as those horrible cold and flu symptoms start taking hold that is the time to take Echinacea

Traditionally, Echinacea has also been used to fight other infections too. Infections such as skin problems, acne or boils have all been treated using this wonderful herbal medicine.

As part of the infection fighting properties, Echinacea has antiseptic properties which are useful to treat mild infections. Echinacea has even been used to treat fungal infections such as Athletes foot.

As always, if you are under a medical professionals’ care, please consult them before taking Echinacea or any other herbal remedy. Rashes and asthma have been reported as two of the more severe side effects of using Echinacea . The most common side effects are generally gastrointestinal.

People showing allergies to plants related to the daisy family should avoid Echinacea as they tend to be more likely to have an adverse reaction.

Echinacea is not a excellent thought for use by people with multiple sclerosis, white blood cell disorders, collagen disorders, HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disorders, or tuberculosis. Always consult your doctor if you have a serious medical condition.

As a herbal supplement, Echinacea is commonly sold as pills, tinctures or teas.

When you are taking Echinacea in the form of pills, try and take the pills with water.

Sometimes Echinacea is sold as a tea which can be brewed and then drunk.

Tags: herbal medicine, Health Medical Pharma, purple coneflower, colds and flu, cold and flu symptoms

Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs in her early 50′s and her menstrual cycle stops.  When a woman has not had a period in six months, it is considered that she has completed menopause.  Even though menopause should not be considered as a disease, it can have unpleasant symptoms.  Before a woman has her last period, she can experience menstrual irregularities, hot flushes and irritability.  After menopause, vaginal dryness, loss of bone mass and an increased risk of heart disease can occur.  This happens because the ovaries stop manufacturing estrogen and progesterone.

To try and counter these problems, women in general opt for hormone replacement therapy (HRT).  Recent studies have but increased concern that long-term HRT can cause breast cancer, and many women are searching for a natural alternative.

One of the natural herbal alternatives is Black Cohosh which is widely used to help stabilize hormone levels.

The healing abilities of Black Cohosh were recognized centuries ago when Native American women started using the root of this plant to treat a variety of ailments, specifically problems related to the menstrual cycle and menopause.

Black Cohosh was the main ingredient in one of the most well loved folk remedies in the early 1900′s.  Lydia Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound was sold as a women’s tonic and is still available today.

The Black Cohosh plant is a member of the buttercup family and is recognized by its tall stalks of fluffy white flowers.  This perennial plant is native to North America and has quite a few other common names such as black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, rattletop and rattleweed.

Traditional uses of Black Cohosh included treating menstrual problems and reducing the symptoms of menopause.  Today, Black Cohosh is used for similar purposes, but also as an anti-inflammatory that can relieve muscle aches and pain.

In Europe and increasingly in the United States, Black Cohosh is recommended by homeopaths to treat hot flushes, vaginal dryness and other menopausal symptoms.  A hormone called LH (luteinizing hormone) is produced by the brain’s pituary gland and when the levels of LH rise, it can cause hot flushes.  Scientific studies have revealed that Black Cohosh can reduce the levels of LH in the body.

In addition, Black Cohosh contains phyto-estrogens which are plant compounds that have a similar effect to that of estrogen produced by your body.  When these phyto-estrogens bind to hormone receptors in the uterus and breast it can ease menopausal symptoms without increasing your risk of breast cancer, which is a possible side effect of conventional hormone replacement therapy.  Some experts even believe that Black Cohosh can prevent breast cancer by keeping the body’s own estrogen from locking onto breast cells.

Black Cohosh is very effective to alleviate menstrual cramps due to its antispasmodic properties.  This herbal remedy increases the blood flow to the uterus and reduces the intensity of uterine contractions, which also makes it useful during labour and after childbirth.

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Black Cohosh might be valuable in treating muscle aches and pain, joint inflammation and nerve-related pain.  More scientific studies are being done to prove the herb’s value as a pain killer.

Black Cohosh is often recommended by homeopaths to help in clearing mucus from the body.  This makes it an effective herbal medicine to treat sinus infections, coughs and bronchitis.  

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Black Cohosh has basically no toxic effect, although a few people have reported stomach upsets.  If you are taking medicine for high blood pressure, make sure that you consult your health care practitioner before taking Black Cohosh as this herb can lower your blood pressure.  

Do not increase dosages of Black Cohosh as this can have serious side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, heavy perspiration and a reduced pulse rate.

Make sure that you buy capsules or tablets that are standardized to contain 25 percent of triterpenes which are the active components in Black Cohosh.

For menopausal symptoms, take 40 mg of Black Cohosh twice a day.  To ease menstrual cramps and PMS, start taking 40 mg of this herbal remedy a week to 10 days before your period.  

Black Cohosh can be taken at any time of the day but to minimize the chance of a stomach upset it is best to take it with a meal.  Allow four to six weeks to see the benefits of this herbal remedy.  Some experts have recommended that Black Cohosh not be used longer than six months continually, but more recent studies have shown that longer use seems safe and that there are no significant side effects to long term use.

Compresses soaked in Black Cohosh tea can be applied to sore muscles and joints to ease pain.  Boil dried root in water for 20 to 30 minutes and let it cool off until it is warm enough for you to tolerate holding a compress against your skin.  Apply the warm compress for 20 minutes, repeating this every 4 hours if the pain does not improve.

Tags: The Black Cohosh plant, Female reproductive system, bone mass, herbal alternatives, Endocrine system

Research has shown that motherwort(leonurus cardiaca) is able to cool palpitations and irregular heartbeat.

It is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family. This herb is native to Europe and temperate parts of central Asia. It has been introduced into north America and now grows wild there.

Midwives use it for a variety of purposes, including uterine tonic and prevention of uterine infection in women, hence the name Motherwort.

The well loved names are lion’s tail, lion’s ear, throwwort. The entire plant can be used.

It is used to regulate menstrual flow and other female troubles. Useful in nervous complaints, fainting, heart flutters, cramps, convulsions, hysteria, delirium, and sleeplessness.

Excellent for liver infection, suppressed urine, and is a remedy for chest colds. Also excellent to kills worms.

It is also used for stress relief, spiritual healing, spiritual growth and empowerment. It is a natural therapy.

 View the original article here

Tags: Health Medical Pharma, Central Asia, perennial plant, leonurus cardiaca, Medicinal plants

In any given year, nearly 20 million adults in the United States have depression. Most people with depression do not seek treatment, although the majority can be helped with treatment. The first step is to talk with your doctor, because depression is a serious illness that shouldn’t be self-treated.

Depression can also be a symptom of another condition, such as hypothyroidism or anemia. If you are currently taking medication or undergoing other treatment for depression, do not stop without consulting your doctor.

Here are nine natural and herbal remedies that are used for depression.

The herb St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) has long been used in folk medicine for sadness, worry, nervousness, and poor sleep.

Today, the results of over 20 clinical trials suggest that St. John’s wort works better than a placebo and is as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, with fewer side effects.

Studies suggest that St. John’s wort is not effective for major depression.

It’s available at health food stores, drug stores, and online in the form of capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, or tea.

St. John’s wort may take 4 to 6 weeks to notice the full effects. Side effects may include dizziness, dry mouth, indigestion, and fatigue. St. John’s wort increases photosensitivity, so extra caution should be taken to protect skin and eyes from sunlight.

Although St. John’s wort appears to be reasonably safe when taken alone, it can interfere with the effectiveness of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, such as antidepressants, drugs to treat HIV infections and AIDs, drugs to prevent organ rejection for transplant patients, and oral contraceptives.

St. John’s wort is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with bipolar disorder, liver or kidney disease. For more information about St. John’s wort, go to the St. John’s wort article index.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of excellent stout needed for normal brain function. Our bodies can’t make omega-3s on their own, so we must obtain them through our diet.

Studies have linked depression with low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids. In countries with higher fish consumption, such as Japan and Taiwan, the depression rate is 10 times lower than in North American. Postpartum depression is also less common.

Studies suggest that omega-3′s together with antidepressants may be more effective than antidepressants alone.

Cold water fish such as salmon, sardines, and anchovies are the richest food source of omega-3 fatty acids. But instead of eating more fish which contain mercury, PCBs, and other chemicals, fish oil capsules are considered a cleaner source of omega-3 fatty acids. Many companies filter their fish oil so that these chemicals are removed.

Fish oil capsules are sold in health food stores, drug stores, and online. Most brands should be stored in the fridge to prevent the oil from going rancid. When comparing brands, the key active components for depression are EPA and DHA.

Fish oil capsules may interact with blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin and aspirin. Side effects may include indigestion and bleeding. Fish oil should not be taken 2 weeks before or after surgery. Fish oil can also cause a fishy aftertaste. To prevent this, try taking the fish oil just before meals.

SAM-e, pronounced “sammy”, is small for S-adenosyl-L-methionine. It’s a chemical that’s found naturally in the human body and is believed to increase levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

Several studies have found SAM-e is more effective than placebo.

In North America, SAM-e is available as an over-the-counter supplement in health food stores, drug stores, and online. It should be enteric-coated for maximum absorption. Although it’s one of the more expensive supplements, it remains well loved as a remedy for depression and osteoarthritis.

Side effects can include nausea and constipation. For more information, read the SAM-e and Depression.

Folic acid, also called folate, is a B vitamin that is often deficient in people who are depressed.

Folate is found in green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruit, beans, and fortified grains. It’s one of the most common vitamin deficiencies because of poor diet but also because chronic conditions and various medications such as aspirin and birth control pills can also lead to deficiency.

Besides food, folic acid is also available as a supplement or as part of a B-complex vitamin.

Researchers at Harvard University have found that depressed people with low folate levels don’t respond as well to antidepressents, and taking folic acid in supplement form can improve the effectiveness of antidepressants. For more information, read Low Folate and Vitamin B12 Linked to Depression.

5-HTP is small for 5-hydroxytryptophan. It’s produced naturally in the body and is used to make the neurotransmitter serotonin. Although taking 5-HTP in supplement form may theoretically boost the body’s serotonin levels, many experts feel there is not enough evidence to determine the safety of 5-HTP. It should not be combined with antidepressants.

Reduce your intake of sweets
Sweets temporarily make you feel excellent as blood sugar levels soar, but may worsen mood later on when they plummet. Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol both dampen mood. Alcohol temporarily relaxes us and caffeine boosts energy, but the effects of both are small-lived. Both can worsen mood swings, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is needed to produce the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. Although deficiency of vitamin B6 is rare, a borderline deficiency may occur in people taking oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and drugs for tuberculosis. Magnesium

Most people do not get enough magnesium in their diets. Excellent sources of magnesium are legumes, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables. Like vitamin B6, magnesium is needed for serotonin production. Stress depletes magnesium.

 

Tags: serious illness, common vitamin deficiencies, Major depressive disorder, health food stores, Health Medical Pharma

Heartburn affects an estimated 20 percent of people at least once a week. While an occasional heartburn episode may be common, some people have heartburn frequently.

Regular or constant heartburn is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Symptoms of GERD include:

Heartburn
Chest pain, especially while lying down at night
Sour taste in the mouth
Coughing, wheezing, hoarseness, sore throat
Regurgitation of food or liquid

With GERD, the acidic contents of the stomach flows back into your esophagus, which can irritate the delicate lining of the esophagus and cause pain. If you are experiencing heartburn, it’s vital to see your doctor to be evaluated. If it’s not treated properly, GERD may result in serious problems, including esophagitis, strictures, esophageal bleeding and ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus, and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. Here are seven natural remedies for heartburn. Avoid heartburn triggers. Keeping a food diary may help you identify problem foods. Foods and drinks that commonly trigger heartburn include:

Citrus fruits
Chocolate
Peppermint
Spearmint
Tomatoes
Raw onions
Garlic
Black pepper
Vinegar
Fatty foods
Spicy foods
Coffee
Citrus juice
Carbonated beverages
Alcoholic beverages

Don’t go to bed after eating.

Eat your last meal at least two to three hours before lying down.

Eat smaller part sizes.

Take time to eat.

Try practicing mindfulness while eating. Eliminate all distractions and savor, rather than inhale, your food. Pay full attention to what the food looks like on your plate, how it smells, how it tastes. Chew slowly.

A survey by the National Heartburn Alliance revealed that 58 percent of frequent heartburn sufferers identify a hectic lifestyle as a factor that contributes to their heartburn and 52 percent say work-related stress makes their symptoms worse.

Although some people report that stress makes their heartburn symptoms worse, scientists haven’t yet established a direct link between heartburn and stress. We do know that stress can disrupt our normal routines and make us do things, like eat the incorrect foods, smoke, drink coffee or alcohol, that may trigger heartburn. Stress also slows down the emptying of the stomach, which may increase the likelihood of heartburn.

Here are some natural methods that may help to manage stress:

Natural Remedies for Anxiety Nicotine, an ingredient in cigarettes, can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, a band of muscle at the end of the esophagus, that closes off the esophagus and prevents the acidic stomach contents from entering the esophagus. Learn about Natural Remedies to Quit Smoking. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is a folk remedy used for heartburn. It is a form of the herb licorice that has had the glycyrrhizin component removed to reduce the risk of glycyrrhizin-related side effects such as high blood pressure and water retention.

Although some research suggests licorice may decrease inflammation, inhibit the growth of potentially harmful stomach bacteria, and help with ulcers, there haven’t been any clinical trials on the use of licorice for heartburn or GERD.

The juice from the aloe vera plant is another natural home remedy that is used to soothe an irritated esophagus. Although there isn’t any scientific evidence that it might help, aloe vera juice has a long history of use in Europe as a natural home remedy to relive heartburn.

Typically, approximately 1/4 cup of aloe vera juice is taken (by adults) approximately 20 minutes before a meal.

The aloe vera should not contain any aloe latex, aloin, or aloe-emoin compounds, substances in the aloe plant that are very powerful laxatives. Aloe gel should not be taken directly from the plant as a home remedy, as the gel can be contaminated with the latex. Only gel or juice preparations specifically for internal use should be used. For more information about aloe vera, read the Aloe Vera Fact Sheet.

Slippery elm was once a well loved drugstore remedy for sore throats in North America. The herb was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia, a compendium of drug standards, until 1960.

A member of the elm family, the slippery elm tree (Ulmus rubra muhl) grows primarily in the eastern region of North America.

Slippery elm is a folk remedy that hasn’t yet been studied for heartburn. The inner bark contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that swells when it is mixed with water. The mucilage is thought to coat the esophagus and reduce irritation.

Slippery elm is often the primary ingredient in herbal sore throat lozenges found in health food stores or in the natural food section of some grocery stores and drug stores. A well loved brand of slippery elm lozenges is Thayer’s.

The safety of slippery elm in pregnant or nursing women has not been established.

Like slippery elm, the herb marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) contains mucilage, which is thought to coat and soothe the lining of the esophagus. It is another folk remedy that is used for heartburn.

Herbalists often recommend marshmallow root tea. It is usually made by adding one tablespoon of the dried root to a cup (8 oz.) of boiling water, steeping it covered for at least 10 minutes, and then straining. Herbalists usually suggest drinking up to three cups a day.

Consult a doctor before taking marshmallow if you have diabetes, as it may make your blood sugar too low especially when combined with diabetes medication. Marshmallow may also slow the absorption of other drugs taken at the same time. Marshmallow should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women.

Tags: National Heartburn Alliance, Gastroesophageal reflux disease, liquid With GERD, health food stores, General practice