Introduction:

Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is a tree native to the central and eastern United States and Ontario, Canada. The inner bark of the tree has been used as a remedy for many common ailments, like fevers, wounds, and sore throats.

Uses:

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Slippery elm bark is a demulcent. This means that it is capable of soothing the lining of the stomach and intestines and reducing irritation. Demulcents are sometimes referred to as muco protective agents.

Recent studies have shown that slippery elm bark can help treat the symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases like; Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Soothing a Cough and Sore Throat

Slippery elm contains mucilage, a sticky mixture of sugars that can’t be broken down by the human digestive tract. The mucilage coats the throat, so it’s no surprise that slippery elm is found commercially in many brands of throat lozenges. Slippery elm is believed to be an anti-tussive, meaning it’s great for coughs and for symptoms of other upper respiratory ailments like bronchitis or asthma.

Irritation of the Urinary Tract

Slippery elm is sometimes recommended to people who experience unexplained inflammation of the urinary tract, like those with interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome). Slippery elm powder is thought to soothe the lining of the urinary tract. Therefore, it might help alleviate the painful irritating symptoms. Again, studies are needed to either support or refute these claims. As a mild diuretic, it also helps increase the flow of urine and eliminate waste from the body.

Heartburn and GERD

Slippery elm may be helpful for treating occasional heartburn, also known as acid reflux. It’s also considered an herbal remedy for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD is a chronic disease that occurs when stomach acid flows back into esophagus and irritates the lining. The mucilage of slippery elm coats the esophagus and may help prevent the irritation and inflammation that occurs when stomach acid flows up the esophagus.

How to use the Slippery elm bark?

The inner bark is dried and powdered. It’s available in the following forms.

• lozenges
• tablets
• fine powder
  for making teas and extracts
• coarse powder
  for making a poultice

Safety of the Slippery elm bark:

Slippery elm is approved for over-the-counter use as a demulcent for soothing sore throats and mucus membranes. However, there have been few clinical studies done to date to test the safety and efficacy of slippery elm bark.

Conclusion:

Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) has been used as an herbal remedy in North America for centuries. Native Americans used slippery elm in healing salves for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. It was also taken orally to relieve coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, and stomach problems. More studies and research is needed to test its efficacy and side effects.

Introduction:

Comfrey is a plant. Even though this plant contains poisonous chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs).  Comfrey is used as a tea for upset stomach, ulcers, heavy menstrual periods, diarrhea, bloody urine, persistent cough, painful breathing such as pleuritis, bronchitis, cancer, and chest pain (angina). It is also used as a gargle for gum disease and sore throat.

Mode of action:

The chemicals in comfrey might have a healing effect and reduce inflammation when applied to the skin. However, comfrey contains toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin.

Uses and effectiveness:

• Back pain. Applying a specific comfrey extract to the affected area for 5 days seems to decrease lower or upper back pain.
• Osteoarthritis. Applying a specific comfrey extract  to the affected area for 3 weeks or applying a specific cream containing comfrey extract, tannic acid, Aloe vera gel, eucalyptus oil, and frankincense oil  to the affected are for 12 weeks seems to decrease pain in people with knee osteoarthritis.
• Sprains. Early research suggests that applying comfrey ointment to the affected area for up to 2 weeks improves mobility, decreases pain, and reduces tenderness and swelling of sprains. The effect of comfrey ointment in relieving pain and reducing swelling seems to be comparable to the effects of diclofenac gel.

May also be effective in:

• Bruises.
• Skin ulcers.
• Wounds.
• Broken bones.
• Heavy menstrual periods.
• Diarrhea.
• Cough.
• Sore throat.
• Gum disease.
• Joint pain.
• Chest pain.
• Cancer.
• Inflammation

Special precaution:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Comfrey is likely unsafe to take by mouth or apply to the skin if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. In addition to causing liver damage and possibly cancer, the PAs in comfrey might also cause birth defects. Even topical use is unwise, since the PAs can be absorbed through the skin.

Broken or damaged skin: Don’t apply comfrey to broken or damaged skin. Doing so might expose you to large amounts of the chemicals in comfrey that can cause liver damage and other serious health effects.

Liver disease: There is a concern that comfrey might make liver disease worse. Don’t use comfrey if you have any problems with your liver.

Conclusion:

Modern scientific studies have found some evidence to support comfrey’s use in treating minor wounds and joint pain, but oral preparations of the plant have also been linked to liver damage and cancer. You should never take comfrey by mouth. You should also avoid using it on open wounds.  Comfrey may be safe to apply to your skin or closed wounds for short periods. Always talk to your doctor before using products that contain it. It is best avoided especially if you are:

• a child
• an older adult
• pregnant
• breast-feeding
• someone with a history of liver disease

Introduction:

Roman chamomile is a plant. The flower heads are used to make medicine.  Roman chamomile is used for various digestive disorders including indigestion, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and intestinal gas due to mental stress. Women use it for morning sickness and painful menstrual periods. It is also used for pain and swelling of the lining of the nose and mouth, sinus pain (sinusitis), and joint disorders.

Uses & Effectiveness:

• Indigestion.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Painful periods.
• Sore throat.
• Sinusitis.
• Eczema.
• Wounds.
• Sore nipples and gums.
• Liver and gallbladder problems.
• Frostbite.
• Diaper rash.
• Hemorrhoids.

Side Effects:

Roman chamomile seems safe for most people when taken by mouth as medicine and in foods. In large amounts, it can cause vomiting. It can also cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, or similar herbs.  The essential oil of Roman chamomile also seems to be safe when inhaled or applied to the skin.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Roman chamomile is LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts during pregnancy. Roman chamomile is believed to cause miscarriages.  Avoid using Roman chamomile if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Roman chamomile may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking Roman chamomile.

Conclusion:

Traditionally, Roman chamomile has been used to treat nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and gas. It is often used today to relieve anxiety. Used on the skin, it may also reduce inflammation from cuts or hemorrhoids. It is sometimes used to ease the discomfort from eczema and gingivitis (swollen gums).

Introduction:

Native to southern Africa, devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) gets its name from the tiny hooks that cover its fruit. Historically, devil’s claw has been used to treat pain, liver and kidney problems, fever, and malaria. It has also been used in ointments to heal sores, boils, and other skin problems.

The root of Devil’s Claw has been used medicinally for thousands of years by the San and Khoi people of the Kalahari Desert. Ancient African healers would use this root to treat a wide spectrum of complaints, ranging from pain during child birth, fevers, wounds and joint pain to its most common application for indigestion.

Benefits of Devil’s Claw:

Arthritis

Devil’s Claw has been studied extensively for the pain relief it can provide to sufferers of arthritis and osteoarthritis. Studies have demonstrated that this herb is effective in decreasing knee and hip osteoarthritis pain; however the mechanism by which it does it is not well understood. Devil’s Claw components, called iridoid glucosides, especially harpagoside, may be responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects.  Devil’s Claw is also beneficial in decreasing the progression of osteoarthritis by preventing cartilage degradation.

Digestive Health

Known as a powerful digestive tonic, the flavonoids and phytosterols found in Devil’s Claw are antioxidant, choleretic (stimulate bile production) and antispasmodic which help to maintain overall digestive health. It can provide considerable relief from heartburn as it soothes the inflammation caused by acid reflux. Devil’s Claw can also help in relieving the symptoms of an upset stomach by suppressing inflammation of the stomach.

Weight Loss

In a study conducted at the University College of Cork in Ireland, it was shown that Devil’s Claw can slow down or even stop the production of the “hunger hormone” ghrelin. This herb may be useful for weight loss in suppressing hunger pangs if overeating is a problem, and it has shown promise in the treatment of “Binge Eating Disorder”. In fact Devil’s Claw is now being investigated for its use as an anti-obesity treatment.

Wound Healing:

The root of Devil’s Claw can be applied to wounds to stimulate healing. The anti-inflammatory effects of this herb coupled with the pain relief it provides are thought to be responsible for its traditional use as a skin healer.

Precautions:

Taking high doses of Devil’s Claw may upset the stomach in some people. Individuals with stomach ulcers, gallstones or duodenal ulcers should not take Devil’s Claw.

There have yet to be any studies on Devil’s Claw and pregnant or breastfeeding women and is therefore not recommended. 

People with heart disease or high or low blood pressure should consult their healthcare professional before taking Devil’s Claw.

Devil’s Claw might thin the blood and so people taking blood thinning medication should consult a doctor before taking this herb.

Diabetics should not take Devil’s Claw except under strict medical supervision, since it can significantly lower the dose of insulin required.

Conclusion:        

Devil’s claw was introduced to Europe in the early 1900s, where the dried roots have been used to restore appetite, relieve heartburn, and reduce pain and inflammation. Today, devil’s claw is used widely in Germany and France to fight inflammation or relieve arthritis pain, headache, and low back pain.

Introduction:

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a flowering plant of the Asteraceae family. Its name comes from the Latin word febrifugia, meaning “fever reducer.”   Feverfew contains a variety of active compounds, such as flavonoids and volatile oils. However, its main compound of interest is parthenolide, found in the plant’s leaves.

Useful in Migraines:

For centuries, people have been taking feverfew to treat migraines.  In test-tube studies, compounds in feverfew — such as parthenolide and tanetin — helped stop the production of prostaglandins, which are molecules that promote inflammation. Thus Feverfew is useful in controlling migraines and works better than placebos.

Other possible uses:

• Anticancer effects: Test-tube studies show that compounds in feverfew may inhibit certain cancer cells.
• Pain relief: The anti-inflammatory action may help alleviate pain.
• Elevated mood: In some studies in mice, feverfew helped reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Treating rosacea: Topical creams containing parthenolide-free feverfew extract may help treat acne rosacea by reducing inflammation.

Conclusion:

Feverfew is a medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of fevers, migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, and problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth.

Introduction:

Goldenrod is a yellow-gold wildflower often viewed as a common weed. Over 50 species of it are native to the Americas, and it grows widely in Europe and Asia as well.  Many of the benefits of goldenrod come from its astringent and anti-inflammatory nature. It also has antimicrobial and diuretic properties and has been used for everything from fevers to snakebites to urinary tract infections.

Benefits of Goldenrod:

Full of antioxidants:

Antioxidants are key to staying healthy as you age. They protect your cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which has been linked to many chronic diseases, including cancer.

Eases inflammation and pain:

One of the most powerful benefits of goldenrod is its ability to reduce inflammation and pain. It’s frequently infused into oil and used topically in salves and creams for sore muscles, injuries, arthritis, etc.

Useful in Kidney health:

Goldenrod has a long history of use for the urinary system and bladder health. It’s an astringent, which means it tones and tightens tissues, and an antiseptic, which means it, fights certain infections. Both of these properties explain its regular use for urinary tract infections (UTIs).   Goldenrod also has diuretic properties. It can increase urine flow, which helps to flush out toxins, potentially preventing kidney stones from forming

Useful in colds and fevers:

Goldenrod can be supportive during a cold or the flu, it helps to break up mucus in your lungs, allowing you to expel it and breathe better. It’s also a mild diaphoretic that will support your body during a fever.

Useful in seasonal allergies:

It is beneficial in helping with the seasonal allergies. Because it’s an astringent (drying) herb, goldenrod is most helpful for symptoms like runny nose, runny eyes, and sneezing.

It is used in wound healing:

Native Americans once used it frequently for wounds, burns, and sores. They would use it as a poultice applied to damaged skin or as a skin wash.

Useful in diarrhea:

Goldenrod has been used as a remedy for diarrhea in the past. Its astringent, drying nature helps to tone tissues in the digestive tract. It likely also helps with inflammation caused by digestive upset and diarrhea.  The bitter nature of goldenrod helps overall to stimulate digestion and improve absorption of nutrients

Conclusion:

Goldenrod is used by Native tribes in North America for centuries.  Goldenrod has also been used to treat tuberculosis, diabetes, enlargement of the liver, gout, hemorrhoids, internal bleeding, asthma, and arthritis. In folk medicine, it is used as a mouth rinse to treat inflammation of the mouth and throat.

Introduction:

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a wild flowering plant belonging to the same family as peas and beans.  It’s widely used in traditional medicine as a remedy for menopause symptoms, asthma, whooping cough, arthritis, and even cancer.

Potential benefits:

Red clover contains isoflavones, which are a type of phytoestrogen. These help in prevent osteoporosis.

Menopausal symptoms

Red clover’s high isoflavone content is believed to lower menopausal symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats.

Skin and hair health:

Red clover extract has been used in traditional medicine to promote skin and hair health.

Improves heart health:

Red clover reduces the bad cholesterol and helps in improving the heart function.

Other health claims:

Red clover is said to help weight loss, fight cancers, and help in asthmas and whooping cough and arthritis.

Conclusion:

Red clover is an herb used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of health issues, such as hot flashes, osteoporosis, arthritis, and skin and hair disorders.

Some research has found taking 40–80 mg of red clover daily may help reduce severe menopausal hot flashes. However, beyond this, little evidence supports using red clover to treat other health conditions.

Though it has a good safety profile, some side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, and vaginal spotting.

Furthermore, due to its minor estrogenic properties, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as people with hormone-sensitive conditions or bleeding disorders, should avoid its use.

Introduction:

Marshmallow root, or Althaea officinalis, is a flowering plant that has played a role in herbal medicine for centuries.  Many people use marshmallow root for various ailments, including coughs, skin irritation, and digestive problems, such as ulcers. It comes in the forms of a powder, capsule, tea, and cough syrup.

Medical uses of Marshmallow:

Relieves coughs

Some natural and herbal cough syrups and cough drops contain marshmallow root. The mucilage may have a soothing effect on the esophagus by coating.

Improves the dry mouth:

Chronic dry mouth also called as xerostomia can cause an increase in cavities, gum disease, and dental infections. Dry mouth usually means that a person has too little saliva in their mouth. To treat dry mouth, people can use marshmallow root lozenges. It is important to allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly in the mouth and to avoid chewing it.

Protects against ulcers:

Marshmallow has the ability to prevent gastric ulcers.  Based on these results, the authors suggest that the mucilage and flavonoids in the marshmallow plant may cover and protect the mucous lining of the stomach, which may reduce the risk of certain ulcers, including NSAID-associated ulcers.

Soothes skin inflammation:

Marshmallow root may help with skin irritation and inflammation.  Although marshmallow root may have a healing effect on sun-damaged skin, people should not use it in place of proper sun protection. UV radiation as it can cause premature aging of the skin.

Healing wounds:

The soothing effect of marshmallow plant extracts may also help speed wound healing.  Marshmallow extract was effective in killing specific types of bacteria, which could help prevent skin infection.

Protecting the throat from gastric reflux:

Marshmallow prevents gastric reflux which can cause damage to the esophagus from acid reflux. The demulcent effect, whereby the mucilage coats a person’s esophagus, can protect it from the stomach’s damaging acids.

Conclusion:

Due to its low risk of side effects and long history of medicinal use, marshmallow root is a good natural option for treating minor ailments. As with any herbal remedy, ask a doctor before using it, and do not use herbs in place of a doctor’s recommended treatment.

Introduction:

Maca is a Peruvian plant that may have various health benefits, such as boosting libido, increasing energy, and improving mood. It may also help manage menopause symptoms and blood pressure.

Maca grows in the Andes Mountains. It is a cruciferous vegetable, meaning that it is related to broccoli, cabbage, and kale.  Maca is a common ingredient in Peruvian cooking that gives dishes an earthy flavor. Maca root plant can be ground up into a powder and added to meals or smoothies.

Benefits of Maca root:

Increases libido:

The most well-known benefit of maca root is its potential to increase libido. There is some scientific evidence to support this claim.

Reduces erectile dysfunction:

In one study it was seen that where males were studied with mild ED. Those taking maca roots experienced a more significant increase in sexual well-being than those taking a placebo.

Increases energy and endurance:

Some athletes and bodybuilders use maca root as a supplement to increase energy and performance.

Increases fertility in males:

Another widespread use of maca root is to increase fertility, particularly in men.

Improves mood:

Maca contains flavonoids, which are thought to improve mood and reduce anxiety. . A study in 14 postmenopausal women found that maca may reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

Reduces blood pressure:

It was found that 3.3g of maca per day for 12 weeks lowered blood pressure in Chinese postmenopausal women.

Reduces sun damage:

Extracts from Maca leaves protect the skin from UV rays and thus prevent sunburn injuries.

Protects from free radical damage:

Maca leaves and root contain free radical scavengers such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase. These can help prevent cardiovascular diseases and even prevent cancers.

Prevents menopausal symptoms:

The Maca root has the ability to balance estrogen hormones and prevent the uncomfortable menopausal symptoms in menopausal women.

Maca root helps in improving learning and memory:

There is some evidence to suggest that maca can improve learning and memory.

Conclusion:

Maca has a range of potential health benefits, particularly for sexual health. Researchers need to carry out more large-scale studies in humans to determine if maca is effective. Although there are few health risks associated with taking maca, most people can try maca without experiencing any adverse side effects.

Introduction:

Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) are small, blue berries native to Northern Europe.  They’re often referred to as European blueberries, as they’re very similar in appearance to North American blueberries

Benefits of Bilberries:

Rich in nutrients:

Like most berries, bilberries are a nutrient-rich fruit.  With a nutritional profile resembling that of blueberries, they are commonly known as European blueberries, as they belong to the same plant family as this popular fruit.

Accordingly, bilberries can be expected to offer around 85 calories, 15 grams of naturally-occurring sugar, and 4 grams of fiber per cup (148 grams). Similarly to blueberries, they likely contain around 85% water, as well as good amounts of manganese and vitamins C and K,

Rich in anti-oxidants:

Bilberries contain vitamin C and phenolic acids and are an especially good source of anthocyanins, the powerful flavonoid antioxidant that gives red, purple, and blue fruits and vegetables their characteristic color

May improve vision:

 Bilberries improve the vision especially the night vision.  Bilberries may improve the vision in people with glaucoma and reduce eye fatigue and dryness of the eye. 

May reduce inflammation:

Bilberries help fight inflammation due to their anti-oxidant property. 

May lower the blood sugar levels:

Bilberry extracts lower the HbA1c, total and LDL cholesterol levels.  Bilberries stimulate insulin secretion and prevent the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gut and thus help in the reduction of blood sugar.

May imrpove the heart function:

Bilberries may benefit the health of your heart. Test-tube research suggests that the specific mix of anthocyanins in bilberries may help lower blood pressure Regular ingestion of bilberries improved platelet function, blood pressure, and HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

Other potential benefits:

Bilberries may offer the following additional health benefits:

• May improve brain function. Powdered bilberry supplements are linked to improved long-term and working memory in
  • May kill bacteria. Test-tube studies show that bilberries may have antimicrobial effects against potentially harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus.
  • May improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC). A study found that daily intake of a bilberry supplement reduced chronic inflammation of the colon and rectum in people).

Conclusion:

Bilberries are small European blueberries that are rich in many nutrients and beneficial compounds.   They’re linked to reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels, as well as improved vision and heart health. They may even improve brain function, fight off bacteria, and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis.