Echinacea
Plant Part Used E. angustifolia – root ; E. purpurea – root, aerial portion succus (fresh plant juice) Introduction Echinacea’s stimulatory effects on the immune system have made it one of the most popular herbs in the world. It’s ability to enhance the body’s natural defenses has applications in fighting common colds, influenza and other […]
Artichoke
Plant Part Used Leaf Introduction The flower head of the artichoke has been used as a medicinal agent for centuries. Historically, artichoke has been used for poor digestion, atherosclerosis, and high cholesterol. The leaf of the artichoke plant is used to make a standardized extract. Dosage Info Dosage Range 250-750mg daily (standardized extract). Most Common […]
Ashwagandha
Plant Part Used Root Introduction Ashwagandha root, also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is an important herb from the Ayurvedic or Indian system of medicine. Ashwagandha has been traditionally used for the treatment of debility, emaciation, impotence, and premature aging. (1) Interactions and Depletions Interactions Narcotic medications Anti-anxiety medications Sedative and hypnotic medications […]
Boswellia
Plant Part Used Gum resin. Introduction Boswellia, or olibanum, is a close relative of the Biblical incense frankincense and has been used historically in the Ayurvedic medical system of India for a variety of ailments. Supplement makers derive a boswellia extract from the gum resin of the stem bark of the plant. Modern scientists are […]
Cat’s Claw
Plant Part Used Root bark Introduction This remedy hails from the South American rainforest. It has been used as a traditional medicine, possibly dating back as far as the Incan civilization. Scientists are now investigating cat’s claw for its disease fighting properties, as well as its potential for supporting gastrointestinal health. A standardized extract is […]
Cayenne
Plant Part Used Fruit Introduction For centuries, cayenne pepper has been used both as a spice for foods in many cultures around the world and as a traditional medicine, especially by Native Americans. The active component of cayenne, capsaicin, has been studied for its ability to relieve pain and inflammation, as well as other beneficial […]
Chamomile
Plant Part Used Flowers Introduction The soothing properties of the chamomile flower have been used medicinally for centuries. Today, it is still used as a mild sedative for individuals with minor anxiety or nervousness. (1) Chamomile has a variety of other health benefits, including mild insomnia and topically as an effective wound-healing agent. Interactions and […]
Chasteberry
Plant Part Used Berry Introduction The chasteberry tree finds its origins in the Mediterranean. Its fruit is harvested and dried for medicinal purposes. It has a long folk history of use in women’s health, especially for mild to moderate complaints associated with menstruation and menopause. Interactions and Depletions Interactions Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) Oral contraceptives […]
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 […]
