Herbal remedies and essential oils are commonly used by natural health and alternative medicine practitioners to treat a wide range of health and skin problems. Many of these practitioners believe that these natural remedies, some which have been in use since ancient times, are as effective as modern medicine. Jasmine, ginseng and green tea are three herbs that are used as herbal remedies, often in combination.
Herbal remedies should only augment, but never replace, traditional medical treatment. Always consult with a health care professional before using a natural remedy.
Jasmine
Jasmine is used, by aromatherapists and natural health practitioners, to aid in the treatment of an array of health and skin problems. According to Roberta Wilson, author of "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty," early Chinese health practitioners used jasmine for the treatment of dysentery, hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. In Japan, jasmine was used in childbirth to stimulate contractions.
Today, jasmine is still used, mainly in parts of Europe, to assist in childbirth. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of menopause, induce menstruation, relieve an enlarged prostate and to calm the symptoms of laryngitis.
Jasmine is also used as a beauty and skin care product. Because of its fragrant aroma, it is often used as a perfume. Jasmine is reputed for its ability to regulate the production of skin oil, so it is used both to treat acne and to moisturize dry skin.
Consult with a health care professional before using jasmine for the treatment of any health or skin condition. Do not use jasmine while pregnant until the labor process begins, as jasmine stimulates menstruation and contractions.
Ginseng
Ginseng was originally used by the Chinese to treat problems associated with the aging process, such as menopause, arthritis, impotence and decreased energy, writes Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs."
Today, ginseng is used to boost the immune system, reduce the risk of heart attack, lower high cholesterol, reduce blood sugar levels and to protect the liver against harmful substances, such as drugs and alcohol. The Chinese also use ginseng to prolong the lived of those suffering from stomach cancer.
Do not use ginseng to treat a serious illness, such as diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, cancer or heart disease, without supervision from a health care professional. Possible side effects include increased blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, asthma attack, insomnia and breast soreness. Do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure, asthma, emphysema, cardiac arrhythmia or are running a fever.
Green Tea
Green tea is used in both tea and supplement form to aid in the treatment of many health problems. According to Castleman, the use of green tea can be traced back over 3,000 years ago, when it was used in China. Ancient Chinese medical practitioners used green tea to treat asthma, colds, headache and diarrhea.
Green tea is has antioxidant properties and is used to prevent blood clots, reduce the risk of cancer, lower high cholesterol and to aid in the management of insulin and blood sugar levels, writes Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Green tea is also reputed for its ability to boost the metabolism and is often used to aid in weight loss.
When used topically, green tea can be used to reduce the signs of aging and to add further protection from the sun, when used in conjunction with sunscreen, writes Dr. G. Todorov, writer of Smartskincare.com.
Talk to a health care professional before using green tea for the treatment of serious health problems. Green tea contains caffeine and should not be used if you are pregnant or nursing. Possible side effects include upset stomach.
References
- "Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty"; Roberta Wilson; 1995
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- Smart Skin Care: What green tea can and cannot do for your skin.
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