Medicinal plants and herbal remedies have a long history of use that dates back thousands of years. Many of today's pharmaceutical drugs are based on herbal remedies. Clinical trials of these medicinal herbs separate the facts from the fiction, and provide people with new ways to treat and prevent many health issues.
Bromelain
Bromelain, also known as Ananas comosus or Ananas sativus, is a pineapple plant enzyme. It has been studied and used for sinus and general inflammation. Further studies are testing it as a remedy for burns, as well as as a cancer and urinary tract infection remedy. According to Medline Plus, there are reports of allergic reactions and asthma-related reactions to bromelain. Side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, menstruation problems and increased heart rate.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is often added to over-the-counter medications for its decongestant properties. It is added to many vaporizers to aid in breathing. Other uses are as an expectorant and antimicrobial. It is used as an antimicrobial in some mouthwashes. Medline Plus, however, notes that it may cause rashes and may worsen asthma. Side effects can include drowsiness, coma and seizures when ingested by mouth.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal, or Hydrastis canadensis, is a plant that is endangered from overharvesting. While Native American tribes used this plant for ulcers and skin ailments, today it is used for eye infections, vaginitis and respiratory tract infections. It is used as a tea, pill and as a liquid extract. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) states that some clinical trials found it to be effective for eye infections, and is funding trials for its possible use against tumors. Side effects can include nausea and vomiting.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a Chinese medicinal herb used for thousands of years. It is now used in memory-boosting products, as a leg pain reliever, for tinnitus (ringing in ears) and for sexual dysfunction. It is put in skin products, teas or pills. NCCAM is putting more funding into studies about ginko for memory enhancement, as well as ginko for better insulin resistance. Side effects of include dizziness, diarrhea, nausea and headache. Seeds that are not cooked may cause seizures and death.
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