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 […]
Coleus
Plant Part Used Root Introduction Coleus is a relatively new medicinal herb in the United States, although it has been extensively researched in India over the last twenty years. Scientists are currently looking into the plant’s possible function as an anti-hypertensive, or hypotensive agent for blood pressure control. Additionally, many of the components of the […]
Cordyceps
Plant Part Used Mycelium Introduction Cordyceps is a unique black mushroom that extracts nutrients from and grows on a caterpillar found in the high altitudes of Tibet and China. Even though it is difficult to find and harvest, cordyceps is one of the most valued medicinal agents in the Chinese medical tradition. Fortunately for consumers, […]
Cranberry
Plant Part Used Berry Introduction Cranberry fruit juice has been recommended for many years for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Recent scientific research lends credence to this folk remedy. (1) , (2) In the United States, UTIs account for a significant number of the bacterial infections that are reported each year. What’s more, […]
Dandelion Leaf
Plant Part Used Leaf Introduction Dandelion leaf has historically been used as a valuable food and medicinal agent. The leaf contains a high content of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and potassium. It is also commonly used as a diuretic. Interactions and Depletions Interactions Diuretic medications digoxin lithium Dosage Info Dosage Range Capsule: 250-500mg, […]
