In addition to traditional prescription or over-the-counter medications, many herbs have also shown medicinal properties for numerous health conditions. Although herbs may not be effective for everyone, they are generally safe and easy to obtain at a health food store. Before taking any herbal supplement, it is important to talk to your health care provider first, as herbs may interact with some medications, and individuals with certain medical conditions may not be able to use certain herbs.
Asthma
Asthma affects nearly 20 million Americans, including 9 million children, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is a chronic disease that causes lung inflammation, and while there is no cure for asthma, it is possible to control and treat symptoms. Along with traditional prescription medications, some herbal treatments may help reduce symptoms. The traditional Indian medicinal herb boswellia has been shown to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks as well as improve lung function, states UMMC. The herb pycnogenol may also help improve lung function, although this herb is not recommended for those with diabetes or high blood pressure.
Common Cold
The common cold, which is caused by a viral infection in your upper respiratory tract, affects nearly everyone at times. Symptoms include congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat and coughing. Echinacea is an herb typically used for cold relief, but studies have been mixed on its effectiveness, notes MayoClinic.com. This herb contains antiviral and antioxidant properties, but more studies need to be done to fully substantiate the claims on echinacea.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches affect up to 78 percent of Americans, according to UMMC. In these types of headaches, pain is a result of your neck and scalp muscles contracting. Many herbs have been used to help treat tension headaches, including peppermint oil or tiger balm applied to the forehead or butterbur extract taken as a tincture, according to UMMC. Before using any of these, check with your health care provider if it is safe, since individuals who are pregnant or have certain health conditions may not be able to use some of these remedies.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a substance found in the fats in your blood, and while you need cholesterol for healthy cells, too much can cause heart disease and other problems. UMMC states that the polyphenols in green tea may reduce the body's absorption of cholesterol and encourage its excretion. Other herbs recommended by MayoClinic.com to help lower cholesterol levels include garlic and blond psyllium. Red yeast rice also may be an herbal supplement that can lower cholesterol, but safety has not been established due to lack of standardization of dosage.
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