The U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) defines "medical herbs" as a subset of botanical plants that are "valued for [their] medicinal or therapeutic properties, flavor, and/or scent." Health products manufactured using botanicals are called herbal products, botanical products or phytomedicines, according to the ODS.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, technically known by the Latin name Actaea racemosa, is also called bugwort, rattletop, rattleroot, bugbane, black snakeroot, macrotys and rattleweed. The roots and rhizome of the plant are used to reduce the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, and other medical conditions, including depression, anxiety and vaginal problems, according to Heather Miller, Ph.D. and Qu Ying Liu, M.D.
Echinacea
Echinacea, also known by the Latin name of Echinacea purpurea, angustifolia and pallida, is commonly called the coneflower. The root and parts of the plant are used in teas or in juices for treating skin conditions. This medical herb is used to assist the body in fighting infections and in healing skin with wounds, boils or common acne, according the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. It is also included in over-the-counter medications to reduce the effects of influenza and the common cold.
Senna
Senna, or Senna alexandrina, has a long history of use in Asian cultures as a laxative. As with many other medical herbs, senna is an ingredient in numerous commercially-produced, over-the-counter laxative medications, according to the ODS.
Chamomile
The flower of the chamomile herb, also known as Matricaria recutita and Anthemis nobilis, is used to calm nerves, relax the body for sleep and treat mild cases of indigestion. Clinical studies are underway to evaluate chamomile's impact in reducing "chronic pain in children with bowel disorders," according to the ODS.
Ginger
Ginger has historically been used as a treatment for upset stomach and nausea. The ODS reports that medical clinical studies are currently examining ginger as a treatment for nausea related to chemotherapy.
Kava
Kava, with the Latin name Piper methysticum, is also known as rauschpfeffer, tonga and yangona. It is an intoxicating pepper that is used to reduce tension and encourage sleep. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings against the use of kava, since scientific clinical studies have linked use of the root to severe liver damage.
Peppermint
Peppermint, or Mentha piperita, is also known by the names lammint, lamb mint and brandy mint. This medical herb is used for a variety of problems including gas, indigestion, sore throat and coughs. It is also used to soothe headaches and abdominal cramps.
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