Types Of Medicinal Herbs & Their Uses

Medicinal herbs are plants that have been used throughout history to treat a variety of wounds, conditions and ailments. Although there is evidence that using medicinal herbs may be helpful in healing or treating a health issue, herbs may cause dangerous side effect or conflict with other medication that you're presently taking. To avoid complications, you should always speak with your physician before you begin using any herb as a medicinal treatment.

Lemon Balm

Commonly considered a calming herb, lemon balm is a member of the mint family. The University of Maryland states that lemon balm was used during the Middle Ages to treat anxiety, relieve stress, ease painful indigestion and as a sleep-aid. Presently, lemon balm may be helpful in healing cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus, and may relieve intestinal distress such as gas and bloating. In some cases, lemon balm may ease agitation in Alzheimer's patients. Dried lemon balm leaves are used on their own or in teas. Lemon Balm is also available in capsule form and as extracts, oils and tinctures. Although lemon balm is normally thought of as safe, you should not use lemon balm if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or are taking sedatives or thyroid medication.

Black Cohosh

Used by Native Americans to relieve symptoms of menstruation, black cohosh also may be effective in controlling hot flashes, mood-shifts, anxiety and night sweats that are often associated with menopause. Black cohosh may decrease inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and there are some indications that black cohosh may slow bone loss in osteoporosis. Dried black cohosh comes in the form of capsules, tinctures and extracts, and the roots are often used in tea. High doses of black cohosh may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, tremors and weight gain. Don't use black cohosh if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have liver damage or are a heavy drinker. If your family has a history of breast cancer, speak to your doctor before you begin using black cohosh.

Gingko Biloba

Gingko biloba comes from trees that are considered one of the oldest species on earth. Considered helpful in improving circulation, gingko biloba may help relieve leg pain caused by low blood flow to the legs. Gingko biloba may help improve social behaviors, depression and the memory and thought process of those suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia. It is thought that gingko biloba may help improve strength, energy levels and mood. Ginkgo biloba leaves are dried for use in teas; it is also found in capsule and tablet form and in liquid extracts. Although gingko biloba is a relatively safe herb, there have been instances where people taking ginkgo have experienced skin reactions, upset stomach and headache. Diabetics and those taking blood thinners, blood pressure medications and/or diuretics should consult a physician before taking gingko biloba.

Yarrow

Legend has it that the herb yarrow was used to treat the wounds of Achilles' soldiers. Today, yarrow is sometimes helpful when treating a variety of ailments including indigestion, fever, inflammation, menstrual cramps--and it may help fight off infection. Yarrow may also help improve digestion and regulate menstrual flow. When used as a topical treatment for cuts or wounds, yarrow may reduce bleeding and promote healing. According to the University of Maryland, yarrow is a mild sedative that may help reduce anxiety levels and insomnia. It is thought that yarrow increases stomach acid, which can cause a conflict with medications including Zantac, Nexium and Tagamet. If you are pregnant, do not take yarrow as it may lead to miscarriage; and if you're breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before you take yarrow.