Herbal remedies may be extracted from a variety of plants and flowers, and they can be derived from the flowering parts, the roots or stems of plants. Many remedies that are flower-based serve to treat a myriad of conditions. Before using any herbal remedies, it is best to talk with your doctor about whether they are safe for you to take, based on any medical conditions you have or any medications you may be taking.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a flower used as an herbal remedy to help relieve anxiety and promote sleep. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that it is thought to work by raising levels of a chemical in the brain called GABA, which helps increase relaxation. The effects of passionflower are not as strong as other herbs, so it is usually combined with valerian and lemon balm for a stronger effect. UMMC states that one study found this herb to be as effective as the anti-anxiety drug oxazepam, but the study had no placebo group, so more research needs to be done. As a 1:1 extract in 25 percent alcohol, consume 10 to 30 drops of passionflower, three times daily, recommends UMMC. Get medical clearance before using passionflower to ensure your safety.
German Chamomile
German chamomile, the type of chamomile used more often than the English chamomile, is used to ease digestive disorders, calm anxiety and relieve muscle spasms. Drugs.com adds that it can help treat motion sickness, alleviate inflammation of the throat and mouth, increase appetite, and ease diarrhea. Individuals taking blood-thinning medication may not be able to use chamomile or may need to be monitored closely while using it. UMMC recommends taking 300 to 400 mg of chamomile in capsule form, three times daily. Get your doctor's OK before taking chamomile to treat any condition.
Evening Primrose
Evening primrose flowers yield evening primrose oil, an herbal remedy used for a variety of purposes. This wildflower grows throughout the United States and has been used to treat stomach upset and respiratory infections. This remedy has been used since the 1930s to treat skin conditions like eczema, and may also be used for inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, breast pain that may accompany menstruation and menopausal symptoms. Take 2 to 8 g of evening primrose oil that has been standardized to 8 percent GLA daily, suggests UMMC. Ask your doctor if evening primrose would be suitable for you.
Dandelion
More than just a weed, dandelion possesses medicinal properties. This plant contains vitamins A, C, D and B-complex, as well as iron, zinc and potassium. Traditionally, dandelion was used to help treat liver problems, kidney disease, skin problems and upset stomach. Dandelion roots are used today to help increase appetite and aid in liver and gallbladder function, and the leaves can be used as a diuretic. Studies are being done to explore the effects of dandelion on blood sugar levels and cholesterol, but human studies need to be done. UMMC recommends taking 500 mg of either the leaf or root, depending on the condition being treated, one to three times a day. Consult your doctor before using dandelion to treat any medical condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Passionflower; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2009
- Drugs.com: Chamomile Medical Facts
- University of Maryland Medical Center; German Chamomile; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Evening Primrose Oil; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2008
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Evening Primrose Oil
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Dandelion; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2008
Member Comments