While herbs and spices seem more at home in your kitchen, clinical trials are showing that edible plants are also effective in helping medical conditions. Passed down for generations as folk remedies, herbal medicines are now getting more clinical-research funding to determine their full range in today's over-the-counter and prescription drug market. Before starting any herbal remedy, even with spices, check with your doctor to make sure you will not be hindering any medical conditions.
Bloodroot
A traditional medicinal herb from Native American tribes, bloodroot has been used for digestion issues. Its active ingredient is sanguinarine, which is added to dental products to clean teeth and reduce plaque. Bloodroot works as an anti-microbial against plaque and gingivitis, but the full range of its usefulness requires more research, according to Wellness.com. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says bloodroot is safe to use at the extract-concentration range of 0.03 percent to 0.75 percent.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a flavorful folk remedy for gas and stomach pain. The FDA classifies it as generally recognized as safe. Studies are testing its use as a blood-glucose-lowering agent for those with type 2 diabetes. Other possible uses include treatment for yeast infections and Helicobacter pylori, which are bacteria responsible for ulcers and gastritis, although testing needs to be done, according to Wellness.com. Side effects can include rare allergic reactions, gum disease, lip inflammation, mouth sores, skin rashes, tongue inflammation and acne.
Bilberry
Bilberry is used for diarrhea, eye disorders, eye strain, myopia and inflammation of mucus membranes. It is an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. More testing is needed to determine its effectiveness in the treatment of diabetes, chronic venous insufficiency, cataracts and hardening of the arteries, according to Wellness.com. Side effects can include stomach ache, diarrhea, bleeding and hydroquinone poisoning.
Turmeric
This is a traditional Asian remedy for arthritis pain, low energy and gastrointestinal upset. It functions as an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agent. Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, says more testing is needed for its effectiveness in the treatment of cancer, blood-clot prevention, cognitive function and heartburn. Side effects can include bleeding, heartburn, nausea and diarrhea.
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