St. John’s Wort
Plant Part Used Flowering buds Introduction This common perennial flowering plant has received attention for its potential ability to treat mild to moderate depression. (1) , (2) , (3) It has been used extensively by physicians in Europe as the agent of choice for mild or moderate depression. With approximately 18 million Americans experiencing depression […]
Psyllium Seed
Plant Part Used Ripe seed; seed husks Introduction Psyllium is rich in dietary fiber, a common and effective treatment for constipation. While psyllium has traditionally been used as a laxative, recent research suggests that it may have applications in the treatment of high cholesterol, irritable bowel syndrome and colon inflammation. According to the Food and […]
Elder
Plant Part Used Flowers and berries Introduction Elder has been used as a food and medicinal agent for thousands of years and has traditionally been used in the treatment and prevention of colds, flu, sinusitis, and more. A standardized extract of elder is derived from its flowers and berries. Interactions and Depletions Interactions Diabetic / […]
Kava
Plant Part Used Root/Rhizome Introduction Kava has been used for centuries by natives of the South Pacific. Much like coffee or tea in Western cultures, kava occupies a prominent position in the social, ceremonial, and daily life of Pacific islanders. In Europe, kava has long been used as a safe, effective treatment for mild anxiety, […]
Turmeric
Plant Part Used Root/Rhizome Introduction The rhizome and root of turmeric has been used for centuries in the Indian medical practice of Ayurveda. Indian practitioners have used turmeric as a tonic for the stomach and liver and as purifier of the blood. Modern research has focused on turmeric’s potential use as an anti-inflammatory. Interactions and […]
Red Clover
Plant Part Used Flowering tops/heads Introduction Red clover has been used traditionally as a medicinal agent by Oriental, European, and Native American cultures to relieve coughing, asthma, and as a treatment for various skin disorders. Much recent research has focused on the estrogen-like components of red clover. Scientists refer to these compounds as isoflavones, which […]
Evening Primrose
Plant Part Used Seed oil Introduction The potential benefits of evening primrose oil lie in its supply of omega-6 fatty acids—one of two essential fatty acids the body does not produce on its own. This essential nutrient, in conjunction with omega-3 fatty acid, plays a variety of important roles in the body. Both are needed […]
Larch Arabinogalactan
Plant Part Used Bark extract Introduction This versatile extract has grown in popularity due to its reported ability to enhance immune function and fight certain diseases. In addition to its medical applications, the FDA has approved arabinogalactan for use as a food emulsifier, stabilizer and sweetener as well as many other uses. While the active […]
Tylophora
Plant Part Used Leaf Introduction Tylophora has been used traditionally for thousands of years in the Indian tradition of Ayurvedic medicine for lung and breathing problems. Interactions and Depletions Interactions Bronchiodilator medications Dosage Info Dosage Range 250-500mg (standardized extract), 1-3 times a day. Most Common Dosage 250mg (standardized extract), 2 times a day. Standardization [span […]
Rhodiola
Plant Part Used Root Introduction Rhodiola has been used in traditional folk medicine in China, Serbia and The Ukraine. In the former Soviet Union, it has been used to decrease fatigue and increase the body’s natural resistance to various stresses. In Siberia, it is said that, “those who drink rhodiola tea regularly will live more […]
