Consult your physician,herbalist,or
naturopathic doctor before taking an herbal
remedy.
1. St.-John's-wort
Many clinical trials show that
St.-John's-wort -- also called hypericin or
hypericum -- is successful at treating mild
depression. American consumers have been slow
to appreciate the benefits of
St.-John's-wort; but in Germany, this
concentrated extract of flowers and leaves is
the most popular prescription drug for
treating depression (far outselling Prozac,
in fact). It's also being tested as a
possible AIDS treatment, and has long been
used as a wound ointment.
2. Aloe
Most people are familiar with aloe's
burn-soothing qualities, but did you know
that aloe gel also fights infection? Keep it
on your windowsill in the kitchen; when
topically applied, its gel forms a natural
cooling bandage over wounds, burns, sunburn
and cuts.
3. Goldenseal
This herb's effectiveness in treating sore
throats, indigestion, tired eyes and
microbial diarrhea is somewhat disputed.
Still, anecdotal evidence points to its
benefits as a digestive tonic and mild
topical anesthetic.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile has been called the Swiss Army
knife of herbal teas; it handles everything
from inflammation and skin irritation to cold
symptoms, nervousness and menstrual cramps.
You are probably already familiar with its
pleasant aroma -- thus explaining its
presence in many shampoos -- but you should
also get to know it as a calming tonic.
5. Ginseng
The term "ginseng" actually refers to three
distinct species of the plant: the Asian,
American and Siberian varieties. All three
are traditionally used as tonics, and relieve
stress, improve stamina, regulate blood
pressure and enhance immunity to varying
degrees. Buyer's note: Check your purchase
carefully; studies have shown that as many as
25% of all so-called ginseng products contain
no ginseng at all!
6. Balm
Stomach comforter, blues banisher, herpes
fighter, even bug repellent: The reputed uses
of balm are so varied that it's no wonder
this lemon-scented herb has been nicknamed
"cure-all."
7. Peppermint
There's a reason why restaurants slip their
patrons a mint after a spicy meal.
Peppermint, a hybrid of other mint species,
eases intestinal gas, relieves indigestion
and eases diarrhea. One of its active
ingredients -menthol -- also helps soothe
sore muscles and cool inflammation.
8. Rosemary
The oil of this pine-scented herb is a
powerful antioxidant (it protects fats from
being attacked by oxygen). And because oxygen
damage is known to be a factor in cancer
onset, it may have the potential for
preventing certain cancers. Also soothes
menstrual cramps and digestive
problems.
9. Saw Palmetto
This inscrutable palm seems to counteract the
effects of androgens, which are male sex
hormones that may cause prostate enlargement.
Consequently, saw palmetto has been embraced
by the medical community as an accompaniment
to prescription drugs and surgery for
prostate problems.
10. Tarragon
Tarragon contains no fewer than 72
anti-cancer agents. It also has anti-viral
properties that fight herpes pain and flu
symptoms.
