According to recent research, turmeric is also showing promise as a treatment for a variety of dermatologic diseases and joint arthritis. Turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb for 4, years. Studies that are available on this oil tend to be all over the map, but there are studies that are stronger than others. For example, some studies have found that evening primrose oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help with other health concerns, such as breast pain. Recent research points to improving the quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis , changing hormones and insulin sensitivity in those dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome , and using it topically to improve mild dermatitis.
According to these studies, evening primrose oil might just be the Swiss Army knife of the medicinal plant world. The caveat is that it can interact with several medications. More research is coming, and the applications are promising. Evening primrose flowers are also called moonflowers because they bloom as the sun begins to set. People often say they smell like lemons. Flax seed, also available as an oil, is one of the safer choices among plant-based dietary supplements.
Harvested for thousands of years, today flax seed is praised for its antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory benefits. Although more research needs to be done with human subjects, one study says that flax seed can help prevent colon cancer.
Another study cites that flax seed has the ability to reduce blood pressure. When consumed, it can even aid in reducing obesity. The best way to add flax seed is through your diet. Sprinkle ground seeds on cereal or salad, cook in hot cereal, stew, homemade breads, or smoothies. Add flaxseed oil to salad dressing.
Flax seeds are one of a handful of plant-based sources for omega-3 fatty acids. Other sources include chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans. One recent study said that tea tree oil slowed the growth of acne-causing microbes.
Page last reviewed: 23 November Next review due: 23 November Herbal medicines. They should therefore be used with the same care and respect as conventional medicines. Potential issues with herbal medicines If you're taking, or plan to take, any herbal medicines, be aware of the following: They may cause problems if you're taking other medicines.
They could result in reduced or enhanced effects of the medicine, including potential side effects. You may experience a bad reaction or side effects after taking a herbal medicine. Not all herbal medicines are regulated. Remedies specially prepared for individuals don't need a licence, and those manufactured outside the UK may not be subject to regulation. Evidence for the effectiveness of herbal medicines is generally very limited.
You should always consult a fully trained herbalist before using herbal remedies. Herbalists are trained to know how to mix remedies for specific conditions and symptoms and how much should be taken and for how long. Herbs are chosen to suit each person as well as to treat their disease or condition. Herbal medicine offers treatments for virtually every ailment affecting any body system. Common conditions seen by herbalists include:. Note that when you see a herbalist you should always tell them what conventional medicines you are taking.
You should also tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of herbal medicine. You should never stop taking your conventional medicines in favour of herbs unless your doctor knows and approves. Medicinal products containing herbs are regulated in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
The indications and claims made for listed medicines are not investigated or evaluated before the medicines are marketed, but the manufacturers are required to hold evidence to support any claims they make. On the other hand, registered complementary medicines are assessed individually for quality, safety and efficacy. While the TGA can regulate herbal medicines sold over the counter in Australia, it is difficult for it to control plant material or imported herbal medicines such as those bought over the Internet.
At the time of review, any person in Australia, trained or not, can legally start practising as a herbalist or naturopath. Concerned parties within these professions are working towards establishing a national register of trained naturopaths and herbalists to offer the public greater protection and improve health outcomes.
The Government is also working on creating a single registration system for healthcare professionals that may include herbal medicine dispensers, herbalists and naturopaths. National Herbalists Association of Australia.
What is herbal medicine? Chopra AS. Medicine across cultures: history and practice of medicine in non-Western cultures. Dordrecht, Netherlands: Kluwer Academic Publishers; Herbs at a glance. A quick guide to herbal supplements revised Jun Hawkins B. Plants for life: Medicinal plant conservation and botanic gardens. Botanic Gardens Conservation International. Plant species numbers.
The compounds isolated from garlic have been shown to have antimicrobial, cardioprotective, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may play a role in the belief that garlic helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Unfortunately, the evidence is conflicting. The FDA considers garlic safe. But it can increase the risk of bleeding and should not be used with warfarin, a blood thinner. For the same reason, large amounts should not be taken before dental procedures or surgery.
Ginger is most commonly known as an herb for easing nausea and motion sickness. Research suggests that ginger may relieve the nausea caused by pregnancy and chemotherapy.
Other areas under investigation in the use of ginger are in surgery and as an anticancer agent. It's wide range of actions may be due in part to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. Reported side effects may include bloating, gas, heartburn, and nausea in certain people. Ginkgo leaf extract has been used to treat a variety of conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, and tinnitus.
It is also used to improve memory and to prevent dementia and other brain disorders. Some studies have supported its slight effectiveness. But exactly how gingko works isn't understood.
Only extract from leaves should be used. Seeds contain ginkgo toxin. This toxin can cause seizures and, in large amounts, death. Because some information suggests that ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding, it should not be used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, anticoagulants, anticonvulsant medicines, or tricyclic antidepressants.
Ginseng is used as a tonic and aphrodisiac, even as a cure-all. Research is uncertain how well it works, partly because of the difficulty in defining "vitality" and "quality of life.
Side effects are high blood pressure and tachycardia.
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