Introduction:

Lemon balm – Melissa officinalis is a lemon-scented herb that comes from the same family as mint. The herb is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, but it’s grown around the world.

Uses and benefits:

It can help relieve stress:

Lemon balm is said to soothe symptoms of stress, help you to relax, and boost your mood.

It can reduce anxiety

Lemon balm may also be used to help reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness and excitability.

Boosts immune function

Some studied have looked into the effects of lemon balm in improving cognitive function.  Participants were asked to do cognitive tasks involving memory, mathematics, and concentration. The results of these computerized tasks suggest that participants who ingested lemon balm performed better than those who didn’t.

It can reduce insomnia and sleep disorders

Combining lemon balm with valerian may help relieve restlessness and sleep disorders such as insomnia.

Helps treat cold sores

You can even apply lemon balm topically at the first sign of a cold sore.  Participants in an applied either a lemon balm or placebo cream on the affected area four times per day for five days. The researchers found that the participants who used the lemon balm cream experienced fewer symptoms and healed faster than those who didn’t.

May help reducing nausea and indigestion

In cases that have frequent abdominal pain and discomfort, lemon balm may have a positive effect on the digestion and helps relieve the distress. It also relieves the symptoms of nausea.

 It may help minimize menstrual cramps

There’s also research to suggest that lemon balm can be used to relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Reduces headaches

Lemon balm may also be useful in treating headaches, especially if they’re happening as a result of stress. It has relaxing properties that can help one to unwind, release tension, and relax the muscles.

Reduces toothache

Lemon balm’s pain-relieving properties may make it an a good choice for relieving toothache pain.

Side effects and risks

Lemon balm has the potential to cause the following side effects:

• headache
• painful urination
• increased body temperature
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach pain
• dizziness
• wheezing
• skin irritation
• allergic reaction

It should be used with caution in patients who are on:

• glaucoma medications
• thyroid medications
• barbiturates
• sedatives
• drugs that affect serotonin

Conclusion:

 Lemon balm can’t replace any doctor-approved treatment plan that you’re currently following, but it may be an effective complementary treatment. Talk to your doctor about your individual case and the potential benefits and risks involved.

Introduction:

Skullcap is a flowering plant long used in traditional medicine. Supplements may provide health benefits, including improved mood, reduced inflammation, and anticancer effects.

Skullcap (sometimes spelled is the common name for Scutellaria, a genus of flowering plants in the mint family. Various parts of skullcaps, such as their roots and leaves, have been used in traditional Chinese and Native American medicine to treat a variety of ailments, ranging from diarrhea to chronic pain.

Common uses:

The leaves of American skullcap have been used in traditional herbal medicine as a sedative and to treat conditions like anxiety and convulsions. The plant was prized by Native Americans for its powerful medicinal properties.

May boost mood and reduce anxiety

American skullcap has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

Has antibacterial and antiviral effects

Studies indicate that it has powerful antiviral and antibacterial effects.

Contains anti-inflammatory and anticancer compounds

Both American and Chinese skullcap contain an array of beneficial plant compounds, including antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory effects and protect your cells from damage caused by molecules called free radicals.

Skullcap has been linked to several other benefits, including:

• Anticonvulsant effects. Orally supplementing with American skullcap has been shown to have anticonvulsant effects in rodents
• Insomnia. Baicalin, a compound found in both American and Chinese skullcap, is used to treat insomnia in traditional medicine practices. However, research is lacking.
• Neurodegenerative disease. Some test-tube studies suggest that American skullcap may have neuroprotective properties, potentially safeguarding against diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Heart health. In one animal study, baicalin injections significantly reduced damage associated with an induced heart attack.

Precautions:

• Chinese skullcap is associated with liver damage and even liver failure in some people.
• May cause side effects like irregular heartbeat, tics, anxiety, drowsiness, and mental confusion
• Not recommended in pregnant and lactating mothers.

Conclusion:

Skullcap is a flowering plant long used in traditional medicine. Supplementing with skullcap may provide several health benefits, such as improved mood, reduced inflammation, and anticancer effects. However, human research on skullcap is lacking, and this supplement may cause several adverse side effects.  For this reason, it’s best to consult your healthcare practitioner before using it.

Introduction:

Kava kava comes from the Piper methysticum plant, which is native to islands of the Pacific Ocean. Traditionally, people made a paste from the plant’s root and mixed it with water or coconut milk to create a drink.

Kava kava is an herbal remedy that some people use to relieve stress and anxiety and boost sleep. However, individuals should use it with caution.

Kava kava, or simply kava, has a long history of use in alternative medicine and traditional ceremonies. More recently, it has found a place in some clinical research studies.  People traditionally mix kava kava with water or boil it into a tea, but it can also come as a tablet.

Health benefits of Kava Kava:

Anti-anxiety effects:

The primary use of kava is reducing stress and anxiety. Research suggests that kava could help treat the symptoms of anxiety disorders.

Sleep promoting effects:

Kava kava could help induce sleep due to its anxiolytic effects. For this reason, people also use it as an alternative therapy for sleep disorders.

The other effective herbs are:

• Valerian
• Chamomile
• Wuling

Safety profile of Kava Kava:

Research has suggested that kava kava may cause liver damage. It appears to be hepatoxic, meaning that it can damage liver cells.

Minor side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Rash
• Fever
• Jaundice with abnormal liver enzymes.

In high doses, the long-term use of kava could also cause:

• dry, scaly skin
• yellow skin
• heart problems
• eye problems

How to use Kava Kava:

Traditionally, people make kava kava root into a paste and mix it with water or boil it into a tea. It is also possible to buy premade kava tea from some stores.  The drug can come in liquid form and mix with other drinks such as juice. There are also tablets and capsules of powdered kava kava available.

Is Kava Kava safe in pregnancy?

There has been little research into the effects of kava in women who are pregnant. Until more definitive research is available on its safety, it may be best to avoid using kava during pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Kava kava is an herbal remedy that people use to relieve anxiety and promote sleep. However, researchers are concerned about reports that kava kava can cause serious liver damage.

Several countries have banned products containing this ingredient and it is best to take the advice of your physician before starting this herb.

Introduction:

Jamaican dogwood is a plant. The root bark is used to make medicine.   Despite serious safety concerns, Jamaican dogwood is used for anxiety and fear, for sleep problems (especially sleeplessness due to nervous tension), and as a daytime sedative. It is also used for painful conditions including nerve pain, migraines, and menstrual cramps.

How does it work?

Jamaican dogwood might cause sleepiness, decrease pain and swelling (inflammation), and decrease muscle spasms in internal organs.

Uses and effectiveness:

• Anxiety.
• Fear.
• Nerve pain.
• Migraines.
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
• Abnormal or painful menstruation.
• Other conditions.

Precautions:

Jamaican dogwood is likely unsafe and poisonous when taken by mouth for self-medication. Jamaican dogwood is an irritant and can cause numbness, tremors, salivation, and sweating.

Jamaican dogwood is unsafe for anyone to use, but people affected by the following conditions are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects and should avoid use.

Children: Jamaican dogwood is unsafe for children when taken by mouth. They are especially sensitive to the poisons this plant contains. Do not give Jamaican dogwood to children.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It is unsafe for pregnant women to take Jamaican dogwood by mouth. It can affect the uterus. It is also unsafe for breast-feeding women to take Jamaican dogwood by mouth because of the poisons it contains.

Surgery: Jamaican dogwood might slow down the central nervous system (CNS), causing sleepiness. There is a concern that it might slow down the CNS too much when combined with anesthesia and other medications used during and after surgery. It is advisable to stop using Jamaican dogwood at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Sedative medications (CNS depressants) Interaction Rating: moderate be cautious with this combination with other allopathic sedatives.  Jamaican dogwood might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking Jamaican dogwood along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.

Conclusion:

The appropriate dose of Jamaican dogwood depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Jamaican dogwood. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Please carefully follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using this product.

Introduction:

Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai or female ginseng, is a type of herb belonging to the Apiaceae family of plants. This group of plants also includes parsley, carrots, celery and coriander.

Benefits of Dong Quai:

Strengthens bones:

Osteporosis is a condition characterized by weak, brittle bones and an increased risk of breaks and fractures. Though this condition can affect anyone, older women are the most susceptible. This is especially beneficial to menopausal women who have decreased estrogen levels that further makes to bones weak and osteoporotic.

May Reduce Blood Sugar

High blood sugar can lead to symptoms like frequent urination, trouble concentrating, increased thirst and weight loss.  Studies have found that dong quai has a blood sugar-lowering effect and can help promote normal blood sugar levels and prevents adverse side effects.

Prevents heart disease:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death all over the world. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease and is usually caused by the buildup of plaque and cholesterol in the arteries, causing them to become narrow and hardened   Dong quai reduces the cholesterol levels and prevents plaque formation and thus prevents coronary heart disease.

Decreases Inflammation:

In times of injury or infection, our body often initiates an immune response to help fight off foreign organisms. Inflammation is part of this normal immune reaction. However, chronic inflammation is at the root of most diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Some studies have discovered that dong quai possesses powerful properties that can help reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic disease.

Alleviates Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause is a natural decline in the amount of hormones produced by the ovaries as women age. It is typical for women in their late 40s and early 50s to experience menopause.  Side effects of menopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, hair loss, changes in mood and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Dong quai has a long history as a natural alternative to help alleviate symptoms of menopause.

May Help Treat Depression

Some studies have found that dong quai could have an anti-depressant effect and may have a positive impact when it comes to your mood.

Side effects and precautions:

Dong quai contains coumarin, one of the main ingredients in blood-thinning medications like Warfarin. If you are taking Warfarin or another blood thinner, taking dong quai may increase your risk of bleeding.

You should also be careful about combining dong quai with other natural blood thinners, such as ginger, gingko or garlic. Taking dong quai along with these compounds could increase your risk of bleeding or bruising.

For those who are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, taking dong quai is not advisable and may increase the risk of miscarriage. It should also not be taken by those who are breastfeeding, taking oral birth control pills or using hormone replacement therapy.

Additionally, some people may be allergic or sensitive to dong quai. If you have sensitivity to other plants in the same family such as celery, anise dill or coriander, you should not use dong quai.  Side effects of dong quai are rare, but may include difficulty breathing, bloating, and loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or weakness.

Conclusion:

Dong quai is an herb that has been shown to potentially relieve symptoms of menopause and depression, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar and keep your bones strong.  Historically, it has also been used to treat anemia, improve skin and hair health and decrease menstrual cramps, although current research on these effects is limited.

Those who are breastfeeding, pregnant, trying to become pregnant or taking any hormonal medications like birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy should avoid dong quai.  However, for those entering menopause and looking for a natural way to relieve symptoms, this powerful herb may be just the solution for you.

Introduction:

Cat’s claw is a plant. Two species of cat’s claw, Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis, are of primary interest for use as medicine.

Cat’s claw is most commonly used for improving symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  It is also used for various digestive system disorders including swelling and pain of the large intestine, inflammation of the lower bowel (colitis), and inflammation of the lining of the stomach, stomach ulcers, hemorrhoids, and leaky bowel syndrome.

Uses of Cat’s claw:

Cat’s claw contains chemicals that might stimulate the immune system, kill cancer cells, and fight viruses.

Reducing pain from a kind of arthritis called osteoarthritis.

Taking a specific freeze-dried cat’s claw extract (Uncaria guianensis) by mouth appears to relieve knee pain related to physical activity within one week of treatment, but it does not decrease pain at rest or decrease knee swelling.

Improving symptoms of a kind of arthritis called rheumatoid arthritis (RA):

Taking a specific cat’s claw extract  that contains chemicals called pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids but is free of other chemicals called tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids appears to improve symptoms of RA.

May also be effective for other conditions such as:        

• Human papilloma virus (HPV). .
• Cancer. Early research suggests that 100 mg of cat’s claw extract taken three times daily for at least 8 weeks may help reduce tiredness and improve quality of life in people with terminal solid tumors.
• Arthritis.
• Asthma.
• Birth control.
• Bone pains.
• Chicken pox.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
• Glioblastoma.
• Gonorrhea.
• Hay fever.
• Hemorrhoids.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Inflammation of the digestive tract including colitis and diverticulitis.
• Leaky bowel syndrome.
• Mouth or genital herpes.
• Parasites.
• Shingles.
• Stomach or intestinal ulcers.
• Wounds.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate cat’s claw for these uses.

Side Effects of Cat’s claw:

Cat’s claw is possibly safe for most people, when taken by mouth short-term. However, it can cause headache, dizziness, and vomiting in some people.

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is some concern that cat’s claw is possibly unsafe during pregnancy when taken by mouth. Not enough is known about the safety of cat’s claw during breast-feeding. Avoid using cat’s claw if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), or other similar conditions::

Cat’s claw might cause the immune system to become more active. This could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using cat’s claw without consulting with your healthcare provider.

Bleeding disorders:

Cat’s claw might slow blood clotting. There is concern that cat’s claw might increase the risk of bruising or bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.

Low blood pressure:

Low blood pressure: There is some evidence that cat’s claw might lower blood pressure. If your blood pressure is already too low, this might be a problem.

Leukemia:

Cat’s claw might worsen this condition. Don’t use it if you have leukemia.

Surgery:

There is a concern that cat’s claw might make blood pressure control difficult during surgery. Stop taking cat’s claw at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Conclusion:

Today, cat’s claw is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of health conditions, including viral infections. Cat’s claw is being studied for a number of other possible uses, including HIV, Crohn disease, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus), endometriosis, kidney problems, bladder cancer, and Alzheimer disease. More research is needed before scientists can say whether it is effective.

Introduction:

Prior to the invention of antibiotics, indigenous people herbal remedies to deal with issues including infections. One example is the plant called uva ursi, or bearberry, which has been used as natural urinary tract infections for hundreds of years.

Uva ursi is also known by some other names such as:

• beargrape
• rockberry
• red berry
• kinnikinnick
• sandberry

Benefits of Uva Ursi are because of:

Extracts made from UU leaves contain many protective constituents, such as:

• flavonoids
• iridoids
• hydroquinone glycosides (mainly arbutin)
• tannins
• terpenoids

The antimicrobial actions of Uva Ursi are attributed to the hydroquinone derivatives, especially arbutin.

Medicinal uses:

Helps treat Urinary tract infections:

Uva Ursi is most often used to treat urinary tract infections and bladder infections (also called cystitis). There haven’t been many large-scale studies investigating its effectiveness or mechanisms of actions, but several small studies have shown promise that it can reduce recurring urinary tract infections thanks to its natural antibacterial and astringent properties.

It acts like a natural diuretic:

Uva ursi can help flush out fluids from the body, reducing swelling and lowering the presence of pathogens in the process.

It may also be helpful in eliminating urinary stones.  It’s not typically used for this purpose, but it’s thought to have natural detoxifying effects that may assist in overall kidney function.  However, taking too much may potentially damage the kidneys and liver, so the dosage is important.

May reduce Hyper-pigmentation of the skin:

UU can be used as a topical preparation that’s applied to the skin to help reduce skin lightening and hyper-pigmentation. Its skin-enhancing effects are mostly due to its antioxidant content, including the compound arbutin.

Other Uses:

In addition to treating urinary, bladder and skin conditions, Uva ursi is also sometimes used to treat other conditions and symptoms, although there is less research available to demonstrate how well it works for these purposes. Some other uses for Uva ursi include potentially managing:

• Indigestion and constipation
• Painful and frequent urination
• Excess uric acid in the urine
• Skin wounds that are slow to heal
• Symptoms related to inflammation, such as aches and pains
• Kidney infections
• Bronchitis
• Bedwetting

Side Effects:

Is uva ursi safe? Overall it’s considered safe for short-term use when used in recommended doses.

Bearberry/UU is capable of causing side effects in some people, especially when used for many months or taken in high amounts. Potential side effects associated with UU use may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion/upset stomach
• Discoloration of the urine
• Mood changes, fatigue and irritability
• Insomnia
• Possibly liver or kidney damage, shortness of breath, confusion and seizures in very rare but serious cases

Drug interactions:

Drug –drug interactions are known and contraindications for uva ursi include combining it with:

• Lithium
• Blood pressure medications
• Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids
• Iron supplements

Conclusion:

Uva ursi is an herbal remedy that’s also called bearberry. It contains a number of protective compounds, including flavonoids, iridoids, hydroquinone glycosides (mainly arbutin), tannins and terpenoids. It has natural antibacterial and astringent effects and is most often used to treat UTIs. It may also help with bladder infections and skin issues, such as hyper-pigmentation. However, care must be taken and always consult your healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedy.

Introduction:

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is an herbal remedy that dates back to ancient Roman and Greek times. It was used traditionally to stop bleeding, heal ulcers and wounds, and treat tuberculosis and kidney problems.

Benefits of Horsetail:

Bone Health/Arthritis

Horsetail not only contains silica, it is high in many minerals that support its use as a bone strengthening herb. Silica is fundamentally important in building and maintaining healthy connective tissues, cartilage, muscle, skin, tendons, sheathing, and bone. Consuming Horsetail as a natural source of silica increases the body’s absorption of bone building minerals such as calcium, helping to provide relief from a whole host of structural diseases.

Research has shown that Horsetail directly stimulates the production of bone cells, leading to the increased formation of bone tissue. Thus, Horsetail is an extremely useful herb in the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help to repair bone fractures, build cartilage for stronger joints, boost calcium absorption by the bones and even strengthen the connection between the jawbone and teeth.

Kidney/Bladder Health

Horsetail has a long and documented history of use as a diuretic. In a recent study comparing Horsetail to its pharmaceutical counterpart, it was found that the herb was as effective as the drug, but without causing excessive electrolyte loss – a common problem with pharmaceutical diuretics. The natural diuretic action of Horsetail helps the kidneys to cleanse the blood by triggering the need for water in the body and regulating urinary output.

The cleansing, diuretic action of Horsetail tea can be useful in combating bladder and urinary problems. By boosting the flow of urine, it helps to flush out harmful bacteria and toxins whilst soothing the constant urge to urinate by toning the urinary system. The high silica content of Horsetail is also thought to be responsible for its astringent, healing action upon the urinary tract.

Wound Healing

The rich silica content of Horsetail is responsible for its ability to speed up wound healing. These silicates and silicic acid promote the migration of leukocytes and neutrophils to the site of the wound and initiate the inflammatory phase of the healing process. The astringent properties of this herb also make it an excellent clotting agent that not only helps to staunch wounds; it can be effective in stopping nosebleeds too.

Hair & Skin Health

Horsetail has been used around the world for centuries as a beautifying herb. Silicon is believed to be key to the optimal synthesis of collagen, a building block that is essential to the strength and elasticity of skin.

Studies have found that silica derived from Horsetail significantly increased hair growth after 90 and 180 days. Additional studies confirm that hair strands with higher silica content are shinier and tend to have a lower hair fall out rate.

Manages Diabetes

The excellent anti-glycemic nature of horsetail plays a role in alleviating the blood sugar levels of the body. This herb activates the pancreas and stimulates the secretion of a balanced amount of insulin and also regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates.

Prevents Kidney Stones

The anti-lithiasis quality of the horsetail herb prevents the formation of kidney stones, helps to break or reduce the size of the formed ones and thus prevents various underlying health conditions like polycystic kidney disease, kidney stones, and cystitis. Being diuretic in nature, it also prevents urinary tract infection and promotes overall health of the kidney. It also helps in eliminating unnecessary toxins from the body, thus uplifting overall kidney health.

Relieves Respiratory Woes

Thanks to the powerful anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and expectorant properties, Horsetail is useful in treating the common cold, sore throat, and incessant cough and flu symptoms. It also reduces chest and nasal congestion, gets rid of excess catarrh particles and stops nasal discharge. It also renders absolute relief from conditions like bronchitis, sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses.

Enhances Cognitive Abilities

Horsetail is a useful remedy to improve the functioning of the brain. The potent antioxidants present in it enhance neural pathway efficiencies and extensively help to improve the memory capacity, concentration, calmness, and alertness of an individual. Being a brain booster, it activates the elimination of free radicals from the body enabling the deterrence of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia etc. 

Reduces Risk of Cancer

Horsetail root comprises of numerous antioxidants that are highly significant in preventing and treating free radical damage that can give rise to conditions like inflammation, deterioration of organs, pain and degenerative diseases. The abundance of quinones and cyclic hexapeptides in Equisetum ensures that the healthy cells do not change into malignant ones and even actively helps in combating the cancer cells in the colon, breast, and other parts.

Should not be used in:

Horsetail is not recommended for use by pregnant women or breastfeeding women, nor by people with a history of cardiac failure, low blood pressure and kidney disease. Horsetail can decrease the body’s ability to decrease blood pressure and has a strong diuretic effect.

Conclusion

Horsetail thus showcases numerous potential properties which makes it one of the safest natural remedy for the treatment of painful and inflammatory conditions, gout, improve wound healing, strengthen bones and joints and enhance hair and skin health. Incorporate this wonder herb in your regular lifestyle to enjoy its superb benefits.

Horsetail is safe for use in the majority of adults when it is consumed for short periods of time up to one week, or if it is consumed as directed by a doctor, registered dietitian or medicinal plant specialist.

Introduction:

Stinging nettle is closely related Urtica urens has a long medicinal history. In medieval Europe, it was used as a diuretic and to treat joint pain.

Uses of Stinging Nettle:

It has been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, many people use it to treat urinary problems related to the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). It is also used for urinary tract infections, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), or in compresses or creams for treating joint pain, sprains and strains, tendonitis, and insect bites.

Osteoarthritis

The leaves and stems of nettle have been used historically to treat arthritis and relieve sore muscles. It is known that some people find relief from joint pain by applying nettle leaf topically to the painful area. Other studies show that taking an oral extract of stinging nettle, along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), helps people reduce their NSAID dose.

Hay fever

One preliminary human study suggested that nettle capsules helped reduce sneezing and itching in people with hay fever.  Researchers think that may be due to nettle’s ability to reduce the amount of histamine the body produces in response to an allergen. More studies are needed to confirm nettle’s antihistamine properties. Some doctors recommend taking a freeze-dried preparation of stinging nettle well before hay fever season starts.

Other uses:

Preliminary animal studies indicate that nettle may lower blood sugar and blood pressure. However, more research is needed to determine whether this is also true in human beings.

Side effects:

There are possible side effects, which can include:

• stomach problems
• urinary issues
• sweating
• hives or rashes
• Diarrhea

Interactions with other drugs:

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners)

Stinging nettle may affect the blood’s ability to clot, and could interfere with blood-thinning drugs, including:

• Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Clopidogrel (Plavix)
• Aspirin

Drugs for high blood pressure

Stinging nettle may lower blood pressure, so it could strengthen the effects of these drugs:

• ACE inhibitors: Captopril, Enalapril, lisinopril , fosinopril
• Beta-blockers: Atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol.
• Calcium channel blockers: Nifedipine, amlodipine, verapamil.

Diuretics (water pills)

Because stinging nettle can act as a diuretic, it can increase the effects of these drugs, raising the risk of dehydration:

• Furosemide.
• Hydrocholorothiazide

Drugs for diabetes

Stinging nettle may lower blood sugar, so it could strengthen the effects of these drugs, raising the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Lithium

Stinging nettle may have a diuretic effect and may reduce the body’s ability to remove this drug.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

In a scientific study of patients with acute arthritis, stewed stinging nettle leaves enhanced the anti-inflammatory effect of diclofenac, which is an NSAID.

Conclusion:

Stinging nettle may have a range of health benefits. However, there is limited evidence to suggest the herb may be useful in treating arthritis, allergies, and benign prostate enlargement.

Stinging nettle is usually safe, but it may cause some side effects. Therefore, it is important to speak with a doctor before using stinging nettle to treat any condition, as it may interact with medications.

Introduction:

Pau d’arco is a tree that grows in the Amazon rainforest. Pau d’arco wood is dense and resists rotting. The name “Pau d’arco” is the Portuguese word for “bow stick,” an appropriate term considering the tree’s use by the native South American Indians for making hunting bows. The bark and wood are used to make medicine.

It is efficacious in a number of illnesses:

• Yeast infections.
• Common cold.
• Flu.
• Diarrhea.
• Bladder and prostate infections.
• Intestinal worms.
• Cancer.
• Diabetes.
• Ulcers.
• Stomach problems.
• Liver problems.
• Asthma.
• Bronchitis.
• Arthritis-like pain.
• Sexually transmitted diseases (gonorrhea, syphilis).
• Boils.

Common side effects:

Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The risk and severity of side effects tend to increase with the dose.

Severe side effects:

Symptoms may include but aren’t limited to:

• Difficulty breathing
• Itchiness
• Rash

Precaution:

You should stop taking any medicine or herb that inhibits clotting or increases the risk of bleeding for at least two weeks before surgery.  People with kidney or liver disease should also take it with caution.

Conclusion:

Pau d’arco is the bark of several species of trees native to the rainforests of Central and South America. It has long been part of folk medicine.  Research on Pau d’arco has mostly been in vitro and for animals. There have been promising results that it may have future potential for treating some types of infections, inflammatory conditions, and cancers. This evidence does not support the use of Pau d’arco to treat any conditions in humans yet.

Due to the lack of safety research, children, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or people with liver or kidney problems should not use Pau d’arco. You should also avoid it if you take blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or if you have any medical conditions affecting bleeding or clotting.