MEDICINAL HERBS

These are some of the herbs that are frequently used by Medical Herbalists.

Echinacea Traditionally used in North America to treat a range of conditions from snakebite to scarlet fever, today it is popular as one of the few supplements which can help winter colds. Research has found that it helps to regulate the immune system by stimulating the body to produce white cells, the body’s own natural defence against bacteria and viruses.

Ginkgo Biloba The leaves of this tree contain ginkgolides which research has shown improves circulation, including to the brain. It is widely used to help with headaches, memory loss and dizziness, as well as with muscular cramps and asthma.

Valerian The rhizome of this plant was traditionally used as a sedative for anxiety, epilepsy and stress. Modern research points to valeopotriates producing a sedative effect and today it continues to be used as a safe treatment for stress, anxiety and mild depression.

Vitex Agnus Castus (Monk’s Pepper) has been traditionally used to promote fertility in both men and women. Research in 1950s highlighted its usefulness in the treatment of women’s hormonal and gynaecological problems.

Carduus’ traditional use to alleviate jaundice, liver and gall bladder problems has been confirmed by research. It is now used to protect and restore the liver.

St John’s Wort (Hypericum) Traditionally used for many conditions affecting the nervous system from depression and anxiety to neuralgia and sciatica, recent clinical trials have indicated that, as an anti-depressant, it is as effective as pharmaceutical drugs and without side effects. Long used for dressing wounds, its anti-viral properties are now successfully used in the treatment of herpes simplex and para-influenza virus, and there are currently research trials on its effectiveness in the treatment of HIV.

Hawthorn’s (Crataegus) traditional use for the treatment for heart problems, hypertension and angina has been confirmed by recent research. The potent antioxidant constituents, oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids, support the contraction of the heart while increasing cardiac and arterial blood flow, so reducing blood pressure and helping to prevent hardening of the arteries.

German Chamomile, a familiar garden plant, is widely available as a tea. Its flowers, which contain an essential oil, are strongly anti-inflammatory internally and externally. Herbalists use the tea to relieve indigestion, stomach cramps, travel sickness, hay fever and as a mild sedative, and the oil to reduce inflammation of the skin.