Tropical plants and herbs have been used in native and folk medicine for centuries. Scientists have begun to study many of these herbs to validate herbalists' claims and determine their place in modern medicine. Although many herbs are time honored, it is important to remember that they have yet to receive FDA approval and should be used only under the direction of a health care professional.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a prolific fruit-bearing palm tree which grows throughout Mexico and the southern United States. Its fruit is used by herbalists to treat urinary tract disorders, enlarged prostate and to promote male libido. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites studies which show that saw palmetto is effective at reducing enlarged prostate without reducing libido, a common side effect of some prescription medications used for the same problem. It also notes other studies that found the herb can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in laboratory animals. It is believed that the plant's chemical constituents, mainly the polysaccharides, may help reduce inflammation in the body. While current research is promising, further studies are still needed.
Acai Berry
Acai berries come from the Acai palm tree found mostly in South America, especially in Brazil and other countries along the Amazon river. Herbalists use the the berries to treat a variety of conditions including diabetes, pre-menstrual syndrome, malaria, jaundice and kidney and liver disorders. Its juice may be used topically to treat skin ulcers. It is touted as a super-food because it is rich in many nutrients, including essential fatty acids and other antioxidants.
In a study by the University of Florida published in 2006, researcher Stephen Talcott found that extracts of the Brazilian berry were able to destroy up to 86 percent of leukemia cells in laboratory tests. Though these findings are impressive, it is important remember that herbs and other natural supplements should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of conventional medical care.
Aloe Vera
Native to the tropical regions of Africa, aloe vera is now grown throughout the world. Its use in both herbal medicine and cosmetics dates back as far as ancient Egypt. Prized for its healing abilities, herbalists use aloe topically to treat burns, cuts and scrapes, as well as internally as a digestive aid. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is strong scientific evidence to support the use of aloe vera as a natural laxative. However, it has not yet been compared to other conventional treatments. Aloe is "generally recognized as safe" by the FDA, and is on the GRAS list of safe botanicals.
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