Herbs are natural, plant-based substances valued for their culinary and medicinal uses. The list of medicinal herbs is virtually endless, with herbal supplements to treat conditions ranging from headache to heart disease and many others. Like other medicinal substances, herbs can cause side effects and may be dangerous when taken irresponsibly. While some natural herbs are indicated only in specific situations, others may be taken for preventive purposes and for their general health-promoting properties.
Garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the most popular culinary herbs and supplements. It has potent antimicrobial effects and can be useful in treating health conditions as diverse as yeast infection and high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, garlic can lower blood cholesterol and may help improve blood flow by preventing platelet aggregation. It has also shown promise in preventing colorectal, gastric, laryngeal and endometrial cancers, though more research is needed.
The average dose of garlic is between two and four minced garlic cloves per day. It may also be taken as an extract or in capsule form for its health-promoting qualities. Side effects generally include indigestion, belching and mild nausea.
Cayenne
A zesty herb famous for its mouth-burning flavor, cayenne pepper is a supplement with many potential uses. Its main active compound, capsaicin, has warming properties that can help improve circulation and relieve pain in conditions like arthritis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cayenne's warming properties may help speed metabolism, making the herb a potentially useful weight-loss aid. Other uses include lowering blood sugar and raising body temperature in people with Raynaud's phenomenon--a painful circulatory disorder associated with cold temperatures.
Cayenne can be added to foods or taken in capsules for its healing effects. The average daily dose of capsaicin is 30 to 120mg in three divided doses. Because it can cause gastrointestinal irritation, cayenne should not be taken internally by those with ulcers, GERD or other digestive disorders.
Panax Ginseng
Also known as Korean or Chinese ginseng, panax ginseng is among the most frequently used herbal supplements on the market. It is classified as an adaptogen--meaning it helps reduce the negative effects of stress on the body. Panax ginseng contains compounds called ginsenosides, which are largely responsible for its healing effects. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, ginseng boosts immunity by improving the activity of natural killer cells. It may also be useful for enhancing cognitive functioning, lowering blood sugar and reducing stress-induced fatigue.
The average dose of standardized panax ginseng is 200mg daily. Side effects may include nausea, indigestion and a slight rise in blood pressure. Patients with heart disease should consult a doctor before using panax ginseng.
Member Comments