Herbal Remedies & Cures

Using herbal remedies is one way to harness the power of nature to treat acute and chronic illness. Herbs have been a part of indigenous medicine around the world for thousands of years. Many people prefer using remedies from natural sources to drugs. If you choose to make use of herbs, keep in mind that they can produce side effects and in some cases, interact with prescription drugs. Before using unfamiliar herbs, consult your health practitioner to ensure you are using the right herb for your condition.

Mullein

Mullein is widely used primarily to treat earaches, infections and coughing. There is little research on the effects of mullein; however, anecdotal evidence suggests that mullein may be useful as an astringent and to dry up mucus as well as relieve earaches and coughs. Mullein also contains mucilage, which may provide protection to sensitive mucus membranes, protecting them from irritation. It may assist in expectoration and sore throats as well as other pulmonary and upper respiratory problems. Mullein may also relieve an ear infection when it is added to olive oil and placed in the sore ear. When making mullein tea or oil, take care to avoid using any of the seeds, which contain a potentially toxic substance called rotenone. Carefully strain the tea or oil through fine cheesecloth to remove the seeds and any hairs from the leaves.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is used to increase circulation and remove plaque from blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the entire body. It strengthens the heart due to its high quantities of antioxidants. Ginkgo is particularly well-known because it increases blood flow to the capillaries in the head, increasing cognitive powers and restoring memory in the elderly, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although there is little scientific research on ginkgo, it is widely used in Europe for the treatment of senility and dementia. Ginkgo is considered safe when used according to directions; however, it may produce mild side effects such as dizziness, headaches and stomach upsets. If side effects are severe, stop using it and contact your practitioner.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is most often used for liver and gallbladder support. There have been numerous studies of milk thistle and the results have been mixed as to its efficacy; however, much anecdotal evidence points to its ability to treat liver problems and relieve pains and bloating from gallbladder colic. One of its active ingredients, silymarin, acts to protect these organs from damage from drugs and toxins, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Milk thistle may help regenerate the gallbladder and liver after sustaining damage due to alcohol and other toxins. Milk thistle can cause mild stomach upsets and diarrhea. Consult your health practitioner for dosing guidelines. Do not treat serious gallbladder or liver disease with milk thistle unless under the supervision of a knowledgeable health practitioner.

Turmeric

The Indian spice turmeric has been used to reduce inflammation and pain in arthritis and other diseases of the joints. Additionally it may be beneficial in relieving inflammation in the gallbladder, reducing the incidence of gallbladder or biliary colic, according to a report published in the journal "Gut" in March 2010. The active ingredient, curcumin, acts on joint and soft tissue, lessening pain and swelling, allowing the body improved mobility. Turmeric can be added to foods as a spice, but you may not get a high enough dose this way. It is available as a supplement in health-food stores. Turmeric can thin the blood, so contact your health practitioner before using it if you take blood-thinning medications.