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                       A guide to common medicinal herbs

A guide to common medicinal herbs

Here are some common medicinal herbs. Most herbs have not been fully tested to see how well they work or to see if they interact with other herbs, supplements, medications, or foods. Products added to herbal preparations can also cause interactions. Please note that "natural" does not mean "safe." It is important to tell your healthcare providers about any herbs or dietary supplements you are using.

Chamomile
(Flower)

Considered by some to be a panacea, chamomile is commonly used in the US for anxiety and relaxation. It is used in Europe for wound healing and to reduce inflammation or swelling. Few studies have looked at how well it works for any condition. Chamomile is used as a tea or applied as a compress. It is considered safe by the FDA. It can increase sleepiness caused by medications or other herbs or supplements. Chamomile may interfere with the way the body uses some medications, causing the level of the medication to be too high in some people.

Chamomile for the skin (topical) can be used to treat skin irritation caused by radiation cancer treatments. Chamomile in capsule form can be used to control vomiting during chemotherapy.

Echinacea

(leaf, stem, root)

Echinacea is commonly used to treat or prevent colds, flu, and infections, and to heal wounds. Many studies have looked at how well echinacea works to prevent or shorten the course of a cold, but none were conclusive. Some studies show some benefit from the use of echinacea for upper respiratory tract infections.

Short-term use is recommended because other studies have also shown that long-term use can affect the body's immune system. Always check with your healthcare provider about any interactions with medications you are already taking. People who are allergic to plants in the daisy family may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to echinacea. The daisy family includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.

feverfew
(Leaf)

Feverfew was traditionally used to treat fever. It is now commonly used to prevent migraines and treat arthritis. Some research has shown that certain feverfew preparations can prevent migraines. Side effects include canker sores if the leaves are chewed and digestive irritation. People who stop taking feverfew suddenly for migraines may get headaches again. Feverfew should not be used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs because these drugs can change the effectiveness of feverfew. It should not be used with warfarin or other anticoagulant medications.

Garlic
(nail, root)

Garlic has been used throughout the world in cooking and for its many medicinal properties. Compounds isolated from garlic have been shown to have antimicrobial, cardioprotective, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may play a role in the belief that garlic helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Unfortunately, the evidence is conflicting. The FDA considers garlic to be safe. But it can increase the risk of bleeding and should not be used with warfarin, a blood thinner. For the same reason, large amounts should not be taken before dental procedures or surgery.

Ginger
(Root)

Ginger is most commonly known as an herb to relieve nausea and motion sickness. Research suggests that ginger may relieve nausea caused by pregnancy and chemotherapy. Other areas under investigation in the use of ginger are in surgery and as an anticancer agent. Its wide range of actions may be due in part to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Reported side effects may include bloating, gas, heartburn, and nausea in certain people.

Ginkgo
(Leaf)

Ginkgo leaf extract has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, and tinnitus. It is also used to improve memory and prevent dementia and other brain disorders. Some studies have endorsed its slight effectiveness. But exactly how ginkgo works is not understood. Only leaf extract should be used. The seeds contain ginkgo toxin. This toxin can cause seizures and, in large quantities, death. Because some information suggests that ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding, it should not be used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants, anticonvulsant drugs, or antidep.

Golden seal
(Root, rhizome)

Goldenseal is used to treat diarrhea, eye and skin irritations. It is also used as an antiseptic. It is also an unproven treatment for colds. Goldenseal contains berberine, a plant alkaloid with a long history of medicinal use in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Studies have shown that goldenseal is effective for diarrhea. But it is not recommended because it can be poisonous in high doses. May cause skin, mouth, throat and stomach irritation.

Milk thistle
(Fruit)

Milk thistle is used to treat liver conditions and high cholesterol, and to reduce the growth of cancer cells. Milk thistle is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for many different diseases over the last few thousand years, especially liver problems. Study results are uncertain about the actual benefits of milk thistle for liver disease.

Saint john's worth
(flower, leaf)

St. John's wort is used as an antidepressant. Studies have shown it to have a small effect on mild to moderate depression over a period of about 12 weeks. But it's not clear if it's effective for severe depression. One side effect is sensitivity to light, but this is only seen in people taking large doses of the herb. St. John's has been shown to cause dangerous and possibly fatal interactions with commonly used medications. It is very important to always speak with your health care provider before using this herb.

Saw palmetto
(Fruit)

Saw palmetto is used to treat urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). But recent studies have not found it to be effective for this condition. Side effects are digestive upset and headache, both mild.

Valerian
(ingrained)

Valerian is used to treat insomnia and reduce anxiety. Research suggests that valerian may be a helpful sleep aid, but the evidence is inconsistent to confirm this. In the US, valerian is used as a flavoring for root beer and other foods. As with any herbal medicine, always talk to your health care provider before taking it.

Medical reviewers:

• Bianca Garilli MD
• Maryann Foley RN BSN
• Rita Sather RN