Certified Organic Herbs

Certified Organic Herbs
Photo Credit Herbs image by Tomasz Cebo from Fotolia.com

Herbs can be certified by the U.S. organic certification process under the National Organic Program. Herbs labeled "certified organic herbs" must adhere to strict requirements set by this certification board. Many companies and agencies produce herbal remedies with this label, and there are several herbs that are available as certified organic. Before starting any herbal remedy, check with your doctor to make sure it is right for you.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a medicinal herbal remedy for diabetes in the treatment of blood sugar. The part of the plant that is used is the seeds, which are ground. Reviews are mixed on whether it can help in reducing blood sugar in those with diabetes, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. There are potential side effects to fenugreek, which include bloating, diarrhea and gas.

Licorice

Licorice is a flavoring, a gastritis remedy and a possible treatment of upper respiratory tract problems. Historically, licorice was used for pharaoh honoring by the ancient Egyptians. Clinical testing of it shows mixed results for its effectiveness for adrenal insufficiency, canker sores, aplastic anemia, upper respiratory tract infections and dermatitis. According to MedlinePlus, potential side effects include allergy, electrolyte abnormalities, hormonal imbalances and vision ailments. Licorice can be found in many different forms as certified organic.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a flavoring and essential oil that is used for indigestion, cramps, nausea and common cold symptoms. According to MedlinePlus, peppermint has promising results from clinical trials for its use as a cough suppressant, antispasmodic, treatment for indigestion, tension headache remedy and for irritable bowel syndrome symptom relief. Potential side effects of peppermint include allergy, skin rash, mouth sores, heartburn, headache, dizziness, muscle tremor and slow heart rate. Peppermint essential oils and supplements can be bought as certified organic.

Garlic

Garlic was used historically as a plague prevention remedy in early France. Today, it is used for cholesterol lowering and immune-system boosting. It is high in antioxidants and may play a role in cancer prevention. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it shows promise in its clinical research for effectiveness in helping cardiovascular disease, common cold symptoms, fatigue, parasitic infestations and some cancers. Garlic has the potential side effects of body odor, skin stinging sensation, bloating and upset stomach.

References

Article reviewed by Marie Slade Last updated on: Sep 2, 2010

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