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Common Herbs
Cat’s Claw: is a large vine that derives its name from hook-like thorns that grow along the vine and resemble the claw of a cat. This herb is indigenous to the Amazon rainforest. It has wide use among the indigenous tribes of this area. Cat’s Claw is most noted for its immune enhancing properties but constituents of the plant have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Echinacea: Both Native Americans as well as early conventional practitioners have used this herb in the 19th century for disorders ranging from venomous bites and syphilis to the common cold. In fact, the American Indians against more illnesses than any other plant used Echinacea. Today, Echinacea enjoys wide use as an immune stimulant maximizing the power of the individuals own immune system by enhancing the production and activity of the body’s own white blood cells (disease fighting cells).
Essential Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids are designated as essential based upon the fact that our bodies do not have the ability to manufacture these critical components of life. Thus, it is “essential” that individuals obtain these nutrients from their foods or through supplementation. Significant research has shown the benefits of appropriate amounts of essential fatty acids in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is of critical importance to obtain both adequate levels and appropriate ratios of the different types of essential fatty acids. Flax Seed Oil provides an excellent source of omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids.
Gingko Biloba:
Ginkgo is one of the oldest herbal remedies known to man. The Chinese has used it for almost 5000 years. Over recent years this herb has undergone extensive research study. Ginkgo Biloba has demonstrated positive benefits in enhancement of general brain function with improvements in cognition and memory loss associated with aging, enhancement of circulatory blood flow to the brain and periphery, as well as demonstrating anti-oxidant properties also.
Golden Seal Root: Native Americans traditionally used goldenseal for digestive, respiratory and urinary disorders. It was also used topically by these cultures for skin and eye infections. It is most commonly used today for its anti-bacterial effects.
Kava Kalm: Kava Kava promotes relaxation while maintaining mental alertness. Kava Kava assists in combating nervous anxiety, stress and unrest.
Garlic:
Garlic not only has been utilized as a medicinal herb within a number of cultures throughout history but also enjoys wide use today based upon good scientific research. Garlic has demonstrated anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-parasitic properties. This herb provides excellent cardiovascular support through its beneficial effects on cholesterol, triglycerides and lowering blood “stickiness” (platelet aggregation). Garlic provides all the benefits of whole garlic without the pungency.
Valerian Root: This herb has a long history dating back to the Greeks. It has been used for centuries for its ability to provide a sedative and relaxant effect in individuals. It is commonly used today for nervousness, stress and its sleep promoting benefits.
Herbal Medicine can be a very powerful source of healing. However there are many sources of herbs that lack the proper potency needed for healing. Without the proper potency, or strength, herbs will have little effect. There exists today amongst various disciplines of medicine, a lot of controversy surrounding the use of herbs medicinally. It has been my experience that some of this controversy could be seen in plainer light if all the herbs in question had their full potency potential. It is very important when choosing herbs for purchase, that very careful attention be given to finding the most reliable source of quality herbal products.
Oxyindole alkaloids appear to provide the immune system stimulation properties of this herb. Glycosides may be responsible for the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions of the plant. It should be noted that there are no current studies (as far as we are aware) in humans. There do exist, though, a number of animal and test tube studies that confirm the immune stimulating benefits of this herb. Large anecdotal experiences in South America also attest to its immune stimulating properties. Also, lab research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory powers as well as vasodilating and platelet aggregation inhibition all of which may exert potential benefit for cardiovascular disease. Cat’s Claw is popular in South American folk medicine for intestinal complaints, gastric ulcers, arthritis and to promote wound healing. Cat’s Claw has gained increasing popularity in North America for its immune stimulating properties and its potential benefit in supporting the cardiovascular system. Side Effects: No serious side effects have been reported with Cat’s Claw. Some experts believe this herb is contraindicated in autoimmune disease. References:
1. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 18–19.
Herbal Ordering Instructions:
Echinacea’s effectiveness is due to several constituents including polysaccharides, alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives. These phytochemicals act to increase the production and activity of lymphocytes and macrophages and natural killer cells (the white blood cells). Additionally, Echinacea also increases the production of interferon. This important biologic response modifier assists in the control of viral infections. A recent review study has assessed the effects of Echinacea in the treatment of the common cold. This review study performed by Bruce Barrett MD, PhD at the University of Wisconsin reevaluated 13 clinical trials held between 1980 and 1999 comprising a total of 2368 subjects. These were all double blind placebo controlled studies (consistent with drug study protocols in the US). When compared to patients on a placebo (sugar pill), those taking Echinacea developed fewer major colds, reported milder symptoms or had colds that ended earlier than the average untreated cold. Based on the evidence, it was Barrett’s opinion that Echinacea may be helpful in treating the severity and duration of a cold when taken early in the course of the infection. According to the author, these studies showed that Echinacea is more effective for acute treatment of colds than for long term prevention. In fact, while additional research has confirmed Echinacea’s benefit for acute cold and flu symptoms (once the infection has begun), other studies have called into question the effectiveness of long term Echinacea use for prevention of cold and flu. Side Effects: When used in recommended amounts, Echinacea has no toxic side effects. Individuals with a history of allergy to the daisy flower family should check with their health care provider prior to use. Some authorities suggest that Echinacea should not be used in individuals with autoimmune illness. References:
1. Leuttig B, Steinmuller C, et al. Macrophage activation by the polysaccharide arabinogalactan isolated from plant cell cultures of Echinacea purpurea. J Natl Cancer Inst 1989;81:669–75.
Herbal Ordering Instructions:
The two known active components of the Ginkgo Biloba Extract are ginkgo flavone glycosides and the terpene lactones. These compounds have demonstrated anti-oxidant activity, enhanced circulatory activity and ability to decrease platelet “stickiness”. These properties allow for improved blood flow to the brain (and other body organs and peripheral tissues) while enhancing central nervous tissue (brain) protection from free radical damage that may occur with aging. These findings make Ginkgo Biloba an important herb for brain and blood vessel protection and health. Research Findings: Numerous studies have addressed supplementation with Ginkgo biloba and the area of brain function. All of these studies revealed positive benefits of enhanced memory and cognitive function in both Alzheimer’s dementia and senile dementia (loss of memory in the elderly) in those individuals utilizing Ginkgo biloba extract. This is based on Ginkgo’s ability to reduce free radical damage to brain cells and its ability to enhance blood flow to the brain. One study has suggested that elderly individuals with depression may respond to Ginkgo biloba with improvement in depression. Again, this was felt to be due to improvement in brain blood flow and “awakening” of the brain in these elderly individuals. Tinnitus or ringing in the ears has also responded to Ginkgo biloba use. One double blind study has confirmed this. This is important research as no conventional treatments are available for this problem. Ginkgo generally requires a minimum of four to six months for benefit in tinnitus. Also, there has been research demonstrating that males with impotence related to poor blood flow to the penis received benefit from the use of this herb following six months of daily use. Fifty percent of the individuals with previous impotence were able to generate an erection following long-term use of this herb. Side Effects: This herb is well tolerated by most individuals although headache and gastrointestinal upset has been reported in a small percentage of users. Due to its ability to inhibit platelet function, individuals on blood thinning medication or other medication which affects platelet function should consult with their doctor prior to use. References:
1. Kanowski S, Herrmann W, Stephan K, et al. Proof of efficacy of the Ginkgo biloba special extract EGb 761 in outpatients suffering from mild to moderate primary degenerative dementia of the Alzheimer type or multi-infarct dementia. Pharmacopsychiatry
1996;29:47–56. Available from: Center for Environmental Medicine, 503-261-0966.
The two primary phytochemicals in goldenseal are hydrastine and berberine. Little actual research has been done on the goldenseal root itself. Berberine, though, has undergone significant scientific evaluation. Berberine, which constitutes from 0.5% to 6% of the alkaloids present in goldenseal, appears to have antibiotic activity against a number of bacterial pathogens including, E.coli, Salmonella typhi, and Entamoeba histolytica. Research has shown berberine effective in the treatment of diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Side Effects: There are no significant side effects if used in recommended amounts, although a mild laxative as well as hypertensive effect are possible. If used over an extended period of time, it may cause digestive disorders, excitatory states, hallucinations and occasionally delirium. Note - Goldenseal is NOT a substitute for antibiotics prescribed by your physician! References:
1. Bhakat MP, Naudi N, et al. Therapeutic trial of berberine sulfate in non-specific gastroenteritis. Ind Med J 1974;68:19–23. Available from: Center for Environmental Medicine, 503-261-0966.
Kava-Kava - This herb, grown in the Pacific islands, is believed to directly affect the limbic system of the brain, the part of the brain associated with emotions. There are a number of excellent studies, which document the effectiveness of kava for people suffering from anxiety. Additionally, women undergoing uneasiness associated with menopause have also been shown to benefit from kava. Unlike prescription anti-anxiety medication, kava has no addictive properties. Passion Flower - Physicians in Europe recommend passion flower for anti-anxiety treatment, particularly in situations of mental overwork, stress and nervousness. Passion flower has not been demonstrated to have any negative reactions when combined with other sedating agents. Schizandra - This Chinese herb enjoys wide use in the Far East for numerous medical issues. One of its roles has been to assist in enhancing individuals’ response to stress not unlike ginseng. Chamomile - Chamomile’s principle ingredients are flavonoids and essential oils. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and anti-spasmodic properties within the bowel. Its inclusion is based on the ability of promoting a "relaxed stomach" during periods of stress. Hops flower - Hops has also demonstrated mild sedative properties as well as enhancing digestive wellness. Its inclusion is primarily for promoting gastrointestinal relaxation during times of uneasiness or agitation. Side Effects: While rare, allergic reactions have been reported. Any such reaction should be reported to your health care professional and the herbs should be discontinued until advised by your health care professional. Exceedingly strong doses of Kava Kava could result in the inability of the striated muscles, (your voluntary muscles needed for standing and walking etc.), to maintain posture. I witnessed one student of herbal medicine take an entire one ounce bottle of Kava Kava tincture as it was passed around the room for students to look at during an herbal seminar on Kava Kava. That particular student collapsed to the floor and could not move. He was completely consciousness, and all vital functions to maintain health remained intact. (Kava Kava did not affect the smooth muscles, or involuntary muscles of that student, the muscles of the heart, lungs, etc.) He just could not get up off the floor for several hours. Kava Kava should NOT be taken together with other substances that also act on the central nervous system, such as alcohol, barbiturates, anti-anxiety sleep medications, antidepressants, and anti-psychotic drugs. References:
1. Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Gothenburg, Sweden: Ab Arcanum, 1988, 285–86.
Herbal Ordering Instructions:
The active constituent of garlic is the sulfur compound allicin. The compound alliin is converted to allicin by the enzyme alliinase, which is activated when garlic is crushed. A variety of commercial preparations exist on the market. For best results, powdered products standardized for alliin content are preferred. The dosage should provide a daily dose of 8 mg. alliin or a total allicin potential of 4000 mcg. Pasteur noted garlic’s antibiotic activity in 1858 and Albert Schwietzer in Africa used garlic for the treatment of dysentery. More recent research has shown garlic to have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against many types of bacteria, viruses, worms, and fungi. Garlic is especially active against Candida Albicans. In addition to its antibiotic activity, garlic also has been shown to enhance various aspects of immune function. These effects support the historical use of garlic for a wide array of infectious conditions. Garlic, though, is best known for its cardiovascular actions. Clinical studies have shown garlic to positively impact many key factors involved in heart and blood vessel disease. Garlic has been shown to lower blood pressure; lower LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in some studies, lower triglycerides (fats) and decrease blood stickiness (platelet aggregation). Side Effects: Garlic is generally safe and well tolerated although occasional individuals experience gastric upset or allergic dermatitis. As garlic may inhibit platelet function, individuals undergoing surgery should discontinue garlic at the advice of their health care professional prior to surgery. References:
1. Hughes BG, Lawson LD. Antimicrobial effects of Allium sativum L. (garlic), Allium ampeloprasum L. (elephant garlic) and Allium cepa L. (onion), garlic compounds and commercial garlic supplement products. Phytother Res 1991;5:154–58. Available from: Center for Environmental Medicine, 503-261-0966.
Valerian may bind to the GABA receptors in the brain. These are the “relaxation” receptors within the central nervous system. This would explain its benefits in stress and anxiety reduction. Double blind studies have shown that valerian is more effective than placebo for people with sleep difficulties. Valerian appears to allow sleep onset to occur more quickly, provides more restful sleep but does not increase total sleep time. Side Effects: Valerian has no significant side effects. It does not lead to addiction or dependence. References:
1. Mennini T, Bernasconi P, et al. In vitro study on the interaction of extracts and pure compounds from Valeriana officinalis roots with GABA, benzodiazepine and barbiturate receptors. Fitoterapia 1993;64:291–300. Available from: Center for Environmental Medicine, 503-261-0966.
DISCLAIMER This information is provided for Educational Purposes Only and has NOT been designed to diagnose, treat or cure any health conditions. Please consult a qualified Health Care Professional with Nutritional Training to diagnose your health conditions and avoid self-diagnosis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration have not evaluated statements about these health topics or any suggested product compositions.
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