Traditional Botanical Supplements

Traditional herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years to treat health disorders. Today, an estimated 80 percent of the world's population still depends on herbal medicines to treat disease, according to the World Health Organization. From ancient times until about 100 years ago, science behind the herb's effectiveness was not known. People relied on anecdotal reports, herbal remedies passed down by family members and the expertise of traditional medical physicians for herbal information. Today, a variety of herbs have been put through the rigors of research, and many results support the traditional uses of the herbs.

Dandelion

Dandelion is an herb native to Europe used since the 10th century when its use was first recorded in Arabian medical texts, according to Bastyr University. The herb is used as a medical treatment, beverage flavoring and culinary ingredient. Traditionally, dandelion has been used primarily for treating liver and kidney disorders and for aiding digestion. The herb also functions as a diuretic and its potassium content maintains levels of the mineral that are usually excreted when other diuretics are used.

Burdock

Burdock has reportedly been used in Japan for an estimated 1,000 years. Buddhist monks originally used the plant's root in the treatment of constipation and removing the toxic effects of mercury poisoning. During the first half of the 20th century burdock was used in Europe to treat wounds during the world wars. Pilgrims brought burdock to North America and introduced the plant to Native Americans that used it to purify the blood and increase mental acuity. Burdock is also a bitter herb, which means it stimulates digestion and improves appetite.

Centaury

The origin of the centaury herb's name is sourced in the story of the mythical Greek centaur and herbalist, Chiron, who used the herb to heal himself from a poisonous arrow wound. In addition to its traditional wound healing properties, centaury was burned with incense during medieval times to increase mental awareness and to achieve alternative levels of consciousness. Indications for using the herb include anorexia, kidney stones, digestive problems and anemia.

Uva Ursi

Uva ursi, or bearberry, is native to the northern regions of Europe, Asia and the United States. The herb was first used medicinally in the second century. Reportedly, Native Americans used the herb as a urinary tract healer. Uva ursi became the principal treatment for urinary tract infections until the invention of antibiotics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.