How to Match a Herbal Remedy to your ailment

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries. In fact, many of the prescription drugs that we take are plant-based. Approximately five million people worldwide rely solely on traditional plant-based treatments for ailments. Unfortunately, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not supervise the manufacture or importation of herbal remedies. The good news is that large and well-designed trials of herbal remedies are being conducted to determine their effectiveness. Here is what we know so far.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

How to Match a Herbal Remedy with Your Ailment

1. GinsengThis popular herb has long been used to boost energy, prolong life and improve appetite. Research studies have supported ginseng's effectiveness but the test group was animals only. Try ginseng if you like; but do not take it if you have heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
2. GarlicMarketed as a pill, capsule, or powder, garlic supplements are said to lower cholesterol or blood pressure but are not distinguished enough to be prescribed as a lone treatment option.
3. EchinaceaMillions take echinacea to boost their immune system for prevention of catching symptoms of a common cold. There is no harm in taking echinacea unless you are allergic to ragweed or taking prescription medication because you can damage your liver.
4. ChamomileThis herb is recommended to improve sleeping habits, settle the stomach, soothe a sore throat, and relieve bronchial congestion. Some takers say chamomile will ease arthritis pain and menstrual cramps, but avoid it if you are allergic to daisies or are pregnant.
5. St. John's WortThis herb acts on the receptors inside the brain to improve a mild depression condition. However, St. John's Wort interacts poorly with other medications and reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
6. Ginkgo BilobaDoctors recommend ginkgo biloba to patients for a memory booster, to promote circulation in the legs or to ease symptoms of cognitive impairment due to decreased blood flow to the brain.
7. ValerianDoctors have prescribed valerian to help patients with sleep disorders. It does work, but do not take valerian longer than a few weeks.
8. GingerThis root is effective against nausea, but the claims of protection against heart intestinal tract, and lung ailments remain unproven.
9. Saw PalmettoDoctors worldwide used saw palmetto to assist in treatment of an enlarged prostrate. However, saw palmetto has it detractors. A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine stated saw palmetto is no more effective than a placebo.
10. FeverfewPeople susceptible to migraine headaches will take feverfew on a regular basis. It has no serious side effects, but do not use feverfew if you are pregnant.