From the University of Maryland Medical Center:
Herbal medicine — also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine — refers to using a plant’s seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Herbalism has a long tradition of use outside of conventional medicine. It is becoming more mainstream as improvements in analysis and quality control along with advances in clinical research show the value of herbal medicine in the treating and preventing disease.
What is the history of herbal medicine?
Plants had been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history. Ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings describe medicinal uses for plants. Indigenous cultures (such as African and Native American) used herbs in their healing rituals, while others developed traditional medical systems (such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine) in which herbal therapies were used. Researchers found that people in different parts of the world tended to use the same or similar plants for the same purposes.
In the early 19th century, when chemical analysis first became available, scientists began to extract and modify the active ingredients from plants. Later, chemists began making their own version of plant compounds, and over time, the use of herbal medicines declined in favor of drugs.
Recently, the World Health Organization estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for some part of their primary health care. In Germany, about 600 – 700 plant-based medicines are available and are prescribed by some 70% of German physicians. In the last 20 years in the United States, public dissatisfaction with the cost of prescription medications, combined with an interest in returning to natural or organic remedies, has led to an increase in herbal medicine use.
How do herbs work?
In many cases, scientists aren’ t sure what specific ingredient in a particular herb works to treat a condition or illness. Whole herbs contain many ingredients, and they may work together to produce a beneficial effect. Many factors determine how effective an herb will be. For example, the type of environment (climate, bugs, soil quality) in which a plant grew will affect it, as will how and when it was harvested and processed.
How are herbs used?
The use of herbal supplements has increased dramatically over the past 30 years. Herbal supplements are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. That means herbal supplements — unlike prescription drugs — can be sold without being tested to prove that they are safe and effective. However, herbal supplements must be made according to good manufacturing practices.
The most commonly used herbal supplements in the U.S. include echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and related species), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), garlic (Allium sativum), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), ginseng (Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng; and Panax quinquefolius, or American ginseng), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), ginger (Zingiber officinale), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), and milk thistle (Silybum marianum).
Often, herbs may be used together because the combination is more effective and may have fewer side effects. Health care providers must take many factors into account when recommending herbs, including the species and variety of the plant, the plant’s habitat, how it was stored and processed, and whether or not there are contaminants (including heavy metals and pesticides).
What is herbal medicine good for?
Herbal medicine is used to treat many conditions, such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome, among others. Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbs. Some common herbs and their uses are discussed below.
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been used in traditional medicine to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. Although not all studies agree, ginkgo may be especially effective in treating dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease) and intermittent claudication (poor circulation in the legs). It also shows promise for enhancing memory in older adults. Laboratory studies have shown that ginkgo improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets. By the same token, this means ginkgo may also increase the effect of some blood-thinning medications, including aspirin. People taking blood-thinning medications should ask their doctor before using ginkgo.
- Kava kava (Piper methysticum) is said to elevate mood, well-being, and contentment, and produce a feeling of relaxation. Several studies have found that kava may be useful in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and related nervous disorders. However, there is serious concern that kava may cause liver damage. It’s not clear whether the kava itself caused liver damage in a few people or whether it was taking kava in combination with other drugs or herbs. It’s also not clear whether kava is dangerous at previously recommended doses, or only at higher doses. Some countries have taken kava off the market. It remains available in the United States, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer advisory in March of 2002 regarding the “rare” but potential risk of liver failure associated with kava-containing products.
- Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is used by more than 2 million men in the United States for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. A number of studies suggest that the herb is effective for treating symptoms, including too-frequent urination, having trouble starting or maintaining urination, and needing to urinate during the night. But a well-conducted study published in the February 9, 2006 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine found that saw palmetto was no better than placebo in relieving the signs and symptoms of BPH.
- St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is well known for its antidepressant effects. In general, most studies have shown that St. John’s wort may be an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression, and has fewer side effects than most other prescription antidepressants. But the herb interacts with a wide variety of medications, including birth control pills, so it is important to take it only under the guidance of a health care provider.
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a popular alternative to commonly prescribed medications for sleep problems because it is considered to be both safe and gentle. Some studies bear this out, although not all have found valerian to be effective. Unlike many prescription sleeping pills, valerian may have fewer side effects such as morning drowsiness.
- Echinacea preparations (from Echinacea purpurea and other Echinacea species) may improve the body’s natural immunity. Echinacea is one of the most commonly used herbal products, but studies are mixed as to whether it can help prevent or treat colds. A meta-analysis of 14 clinical studies examining the effect of echinacea on the incidence and duration of the common cold found that echinacea supplements decreased the odds of getting a cold by 58%. It also shortened the duration of a cold by 1.4 days.
Buying standardized herbal supplements helps ensure you will get the right dose and the effects similar to human clinical trials. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about which herbal supplements are the best choice for your health concerns.
Is there anything I should watch out for?
Used correctly, herbs can help treat a variety of conditions and in some cases may have fewer side effects than some conventional medications. But because they are unregulated, herbal products are often mislabeled and may contain additives and contaminants that aren’ t listed on the label. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions or interact with conventional drugs, and some are toxic if used improperly or at high doses. Taking herbs on your own increases your risk, so it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking herbal medicines. Some examples of adverse reactions from certain popular herbs are described below.
- St. John’s wort can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and may cause an allergic reaction, stomach upset, fatigue, and restlessness. Clinical studies have found that St. John’s wort also interferes with the effectiveness of many drugs, including the blood thinner warfarin (Couamdin), protease inhibitors for HIV, birth control pills, certain asthma drugs, and many other medications. In addition, St. John’s wort should not be taken with prescribed antidepressant medication. The FDA has issued a public health advisory concerning many of these interactions.
- Kava kava has been linked to liver toxicity. Kava has been taken off the market in several countries because of liver toxicity.
- Valerian may cause sleepiness, and in some people it may even have the unexpected effect of overstimulating instead of sedating.
- Garlic, ginkgo, feverfew, and ginger, among other herbs, may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) may increase the risk of seizures in people who have seizure disorders.
Some herbal supplements, especially those imported from Asian countries, may contain high levels of heavy metals, including lead, mercury, and cadmium. It is important to purchase herbal supplements from reputable manufacturers to ensure quality. Talk to your health care provider for more information.
Who is using herbal medicine?
Nearly one-third of Americans use herbs. Unfortunately, a study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that nearly 70% of people taking herbal medicines (most of whom were well educated and had a higher-than-average income) were reluctant tell their doctors that they used complementary and alternative medicine. Many herbs can interact with prescription medications and cause unwanted or dangerous reactions. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying any herbal products.
How is herbal medicine sold in stores?
The herbs available in most stores come in several different forms: teas, syrups, oils, liquid extracts, tinctures, and dry extracts (pills or capsules). Teas can be made from dried herbs left to soak for a few minutes in hot water, or by boiling herbs in water and then straining the liquid. Syrups, made from concentrated extracts and added to sweet-tasting preparations, are often used for sore throats and coughs. Oils are extracted from plants and often used as rubs for massage, either by themselves or as part of an ointment or cream. Tinctures and liquid extracts are made of active herbal ingredients dissolved in a liquid (usually water, alcohol, or glycerol). Tinctures are typically a 1:5 or 1:10 concentration, meaning that one part of the herb is prepared with five to ten parts (by weight) of the liquid. Liquid extracts are more concentrated than tinctures and are typically a 1:1 concentration. A dry extract form is the most concentrated form of an herbal product (typically 2:1 – 8:1) and is sold as a tablet, capsule, or lozenge.
Currently, no organization or agency regulates the manufacture or certifies the labeling of herbal preparations. This means you can’t be sure that the amount of the herb contained in the bottle, or even from dose to dose, is the same as what is stated on the label. Some herbal preparations are standardized, meaning that the preparation is guaranteed to contain a specific amount of the active ingredients of the herb. However, it is still important to ask companies making standardized herbal products about their product’s guarantee. It is important to talk to your doctor or an expert in herbal medicine about the recommended doses of any herbal products.
Are there experts in herbal medicine?
Herbalists, chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, pharmacists, medical doctors, and practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine all may use herbs to treat illness. Naturopathic physicians believe that the body is continually striving for balance and that natural therapies can support this process. They are trained in 4-year, postgraduate institutions that combine courses in conventional medical science (such as pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, and surgery) with clinical training in herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling.
How can I find a qualified herbalist in my area?
For additional information, or to locate an experienced herbalist in your area, contact the American Herbalists Guild (AHG) at site at http://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/. To locate a licensed naturopath in your area, call the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) at http://www.naturopathic.org.
What is the future of herbal medicine?
In some countries in Europe — unlike the U.S. — herbs are classified as drugs and are regulated. The German Commission E, an expert medical panel, actively researches their safety and effectiveness.
While still not widely accepted, herbal medicine is being taught more in medical schools and pharmacy schools. More health care providers are learning about the positive and potentially negative effects of using herbal medicines to help treat health conditions. Some health care providers, including doctors and pharmacists, are trained in herbal medicine. They can help people create treatment plans that use herbs, conventional medications and lifestyle changes to promote health.
Alternative Names:
Botanical medicine
- Reviewed last on: 9/27/2009
- Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Aloe vera gel. Aloe gel is one of the best skin healers and is gentle and safe enough for any skin type or condition. When the gel dries, it creates a protective antibacterial barrier between the cut, scrape, or burn and the air. You can find 100% natural aloe vera gel in fine grocery stores or health food stores. 100% gel is not the same thing as 100% aloe vera gel. Product labeling can be deceiving sometimes. Always check the ingredient list to make sure you know what you are buying.
Arnica (homeopathic). I always have homeopathic arnica on hand (in my purse, medicine cabinet, travel bag) because you never know when some unexpected fall or injury will occur to you or someone you are with. Whether it’s banging your fingers in the car door, getting a bee sing, or your child falls at the playground, taking homeopathic arnica helps the body deal with the initial shock and trauma of such events. I’ve seen my daughter benefit from taking arnica after falling down while running or hitting her head on something. She calms down quicker and the injury itself is lessened.
Echinacea extract. Echinacea is known for its ability to improve our immune systems. The root extract or tincture taken daily has been shown to help people maintain better health. They don’t get sick as often and when they do it’s for a lesser period of time. Medical studies have shown that taking echinacea shortens the amount of time one has a cold. It’s good to take echinacea at the first signs of illness for a good dose of immune boosting. Continue to take echinacea as directed until the illness has subsided.
Cayenne capsules . The whole point of a first aid kit is to have things in it that are going be of value in a potentially life threatening situation. Powdered cayenne pepper, contained in capsules or a small baggie, is one of the best things to put on a wound that won’t stop bleeding. Cayenne pepper powder opened onto a wound will help stop bleeding when nothing else will. Yes, it will burn for a little bit, but the pain is worth it in order to stop a potentially life threatening situation.
Tea tree oil. Just as versatile as lavender oil, tea tree oil can also be applied directly onto the skin. It works great as an antibacterial, fungal, and viral agent. So, it’s useful to put on skin injuries. It can also be mixed with some water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle to help disinfect household surfaces.
Jewelweed for poison oak or ivy. If you like to go camping or hiking, this is a must have in your travel first aid kit. Jewelweed has an amazing ability to reduce itching and clear up the rash of both poison oak and poison ivy very quickly. It used to be hard to find, but is now widely available at fine grocery and health food stores. I’ve mostly seen this in soap form.
Elderberry. Another great immune boosting herb. The berries made into a syrup are a most excellent cough and cold syrup. It helps clear infections quickly, and it tastes great. The deep purple color shows the high antioxidant properties of elder berries. They help deal with any kind of immune disorder.
The reason is because the symptoms are the cure! It’s not good to suppress the cure!
Taking a hot bath with lavender oil mixed into the water with Epsom salts is another thing I like to do when I start feeling under the weather. The Epsom salts draw out impurities, while lavender helps soothe my mind and body.
There are a few things I always do before dabbing on a clay mask, egg wash, or fruit medley. First, I rinse my skin with warm water (and maybe a little castile soap) to wash off any surface dirt or grime. If I have make up on, I remove all of it until my skin is squeaky clean. While I am washing my face, I have a small pot of water coming up to boil on the stove. Once the water is boiling, I pour it into a bowl on a table, and seat myself in front of it with a towel over my head, covering the bowl at the same time. This allows the steam to permeate my skin and deeply open up my pores. It also helps to relax me and meditate for a few minutes.
Purple Herbal 