Natural healing herbs and medicinal plants have been shown to have verifiable benefits for some conditions. Clinical trials have shown that some herbs are able to treat some ailments, but before starting an herbal treatment, talk to a doctor.
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice comes from the yeast that grows on rice. One of the substances of red yeast rice, monacolin k, is marketed by the drug manufacturer Merck & Co. as Mevacor. It is a natural cholesterol-lowering product. MedlinePlus states that it is effective in lowering total cholesterol, bad cholesterol and trigylcerides. Side effects of red yeast rice can include headache, stomach pain, bloating, gas, heartburn, dizziness and muscle pain.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a European herbal remedy for benign prostatic hypertrophy. Seminole Indians used saw palmetto as antiseptics and expectorants, and today it has been in clinical trials for its hormonal effects on the body. Medline Plus reports that it is as effective as the prescription drug Proscar in improving the symptoms and quality of life for those with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Side effects include nausea, constipation or diarrhea, bad breath, vomiting and stomach pain.
Valerian
Valerian is a native European and Asian plant. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. It was prescribed for insomnia in the second century by the Roman physician Galen. Today it is not only a sleep therapy but an anxiety treatment as well. Side effects include tiredness, headaches, upset stomach and dizziness.
Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn is a deciduous plant that contains tannin. Tannin, according to Plants for a Future, is an astringent agent. This agent is used to heal burns and treat skin ailments such as eczema. Juice from sea buckthorn is rich in minerals and vitamins. This juice treats colds and exhaustion and is an ingredient in many toothpastes and face creams.
Lesser Burdock
Lesser burdock is a European herbal remedy with antibacterial, antifungal and diuretic properties. According to Plants for a Future, it is used for infections, skin problems, rashes and boils. Some skin ailments that it is used for are ringworm, impetigo, acne and eczema. Lesser burdock is used to soothe irritations and inflammation on the skin.
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