Medicinal Uses of Herbs

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Agrimony a tonic, mildly astringent. Used for coughs, relaxed bowels and looseness of the bowels

Allspice aids digestion

Aloe Vera Leaves exude a gel that is used externally to treat minor burns and cuts. Some say taking it internally may cause some irritation. Treats poison ivy and rashes, added to soaps and creams as a conditioner for healthy skin, antibacterial.

Angelica A stimulant and aromatic. Used for kidneys and to induce perspiration

Anise seeds and leaves in the tea form for treatment for colic, sedative, flatulance, digestive aid. Cough, bronchitis, stuffy nose, loosens bronchial congestion, morning breath freshener. Is said to be helpful to women as it acts like an estrogen and may help relieve menopause. Increases milk production. Take 1 teaspoonful of seeds in each cup of boiling water, steep 10-20 minutes, strain, drink no more than 3 cups a day.

Apple whole fruit: eliminates toxins from system

Arnica flowers are used to prepare liniments and salves for sore muscles and sprains

Ash Leaves Used in gouty conditions, arthritis, etc.

Avens Herb Tonic and styptic. Used in looseness of bowels, etc.
Balm Cooling in fevers and inducing mild perspiration.

Balmony Anti-Bilous, tonic and detergent. Used in cases of chronic constipation, indigestion, jaundice and worms in children.

Bananna Peel cures warts

Basil tea form, colds, flu, cramps, bladder. Basil oil is said to repel insects. Used in large quantities as a tonic and cold remedy. Calms nerves, settles stomachs,

Bay Use as poultice on chest for bronchitis and chest colds. relieves gas.

Bee Balm leaves relive cough, nausea, sore throat, menstrual cramps, purifies blood. Used to stimulate liver and spleen.

Birch leaf in the tea form: relieves headaches and rheumatism. Bark: kidney stones, fever, cramps.

Blackberry fruit: diarrhea. Root: female problems. Gargling with extract from the leaves remedies sore or swollen throats and cures sore mouths. Tea from the leaves helps menstrual cramps.

Black Cohosh Antispasmodic, used for menstrual cramping, relieves hot flashes in menopausal women; mild sedative.

Blackcurrant Leaves A refrigerant, used in cases of sore throat, coughs, catarrh.

Black Haw For menstrual cramping, prevents miscarriage and excessive flow at menopause.

Black Pepper take at first sign of any disease

Bladderwrack used in a bath for arthritis and rheumatic conditions
Blessed Thistle Increases lactation.

Blue Cohosh root: problems of the uterus. Do not use if you have high blood pressure as it constricts the blood vessels of the heart. For use in third trimester only! Used as a uterine tonic.

Blue Mallow Pectoral. For coughs and colds generally.

Boneset leaves and flowers in the tea form: laxative and fever, colds, coughs, flu and pains in the bones.

Borage leaves and flowers: Leaves: tea for treating depression. Flowers: prepare a decoction to relieve fever and bronchitis, chest complaints.

Brewer's Yeast Flower facial mask. induces abortion when used with pennyroyal.

Broom Used in some bladder complaints, especially in gall stones.

Buchu A stimulant used in urinary affections and inflammation of the bladder.

Buckbean A good tonic; used for liver troubles and skin diseases. Also for arthritis, etc.

Bugloss Expectorant and tonic, used in cases of inflammation.

Burdock Root: blood purifier. Leaves: poultice for burns, bruises, swelling and gout. Seeds: tea for blood purifier or for added minerals.
Burr Marigold For gouty conditions

Calendula flower: antibiotic, heals wounds, induce sweating, fevers, flu, chest ailments.

Capsaicin Oil used as a topical painkiller

Caraway mild stimulant for digestion. Drinking an infusion of caraway helps increase lactation.

Cardamom relieves indigestion

Catclaw Increases energy and uplifts spirits. Good for depression.

Catnip Flowers and leaves used to treat colds and insomnia. Lowers fever, postnasal drip, headaches. Take as a tea, 2-3 times daily

Cayenne Colds and flu. - fast recovery, stops internal and external bleeding, said to prevent heart attacks and also helps with depression and headaches. Equalizes circulation; for cold hands and feet

Celery tea from the stalk or seed: sedative, calms nerves

Chamomile flower and herb: calmative, sedative, relieve headaches and gastrointestinal problems. Used in cases of nervous hysteria and all nervous complaints in women. Fever, burns, anti-inflammatory for wounds, diarrhea in children, Use 2 teaspoons steeped for 5 minutes in a cup of boiling water. Insect repellent when the tea is rubbed on the body.

Chaste Tree Berry Stimulates and normalizes pituitary function of the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland in the brain and promotes ovulation. For PMS, menstrual cramps, menopause, post birth control pill rebalancing. May restore normal periods in women with amenorrhea (lack of menstrual periods).

Chervil used as a digestive aid; some herbalists recommend it to lower blood pressure but there is no scientific proof to support that claim.

Chicory flowers: sedative and skin tonic

Chives chives contain sulfur oil which can cure high blood pressure if consumed in large amounts

Cinnamon ground or taken with milk, good balance after a heavy meal or dessert; also used for diarrhea, dysentery or general indigestion. Relieves bloating and gas. Skin astringent,

Cleavers (sometimes called clivers) A tonic and refrigerant. Is cooling in fevers. Used in gravel and gallstones.

Cloves chew for toothache, also good for nausea or vomiting. The oil from cloves is a remedy for sluggish digestion. Two drops on a teaspoonful of sugar is the best dose. The area should be painted with the oil. Take care as it can burn mucous membranes.

Coltsfoot leaves: binds to toxins in the system and removes them. Used in chest complaints and cold and clears up mucus in the system. For all asthmatic complaints. A smoking mixture made with it, mixed with other herbs, is useful for asthma.

Comfrey leaves and roots: Clears up mucus, demulcent, emollient. Leaves: poultice for cuts and wounds as it has pain relieving properties and is an antibiotic. Put in lotions for sunburn.

Coriander fresh leaves or seeds chewed to relieve indigestion. Digestive tonic, freshly chopped greens in large amounts are high in Vitamin C. An aphrodisiac when added to wine.

Corn silk tea: treats kidney and bladder infections.

Costmary leaves: repels silverfish and is used for bookmarks in books. Tea: for a liver tonic.

Cramp Bark Relaxes muscle tension and spasms, ovarian pain and uterine cramps. Used to prevent threatened miscarriage.

Damiana A tonic for nervous and debilitated persons; also used as a sexual stimulant.

Dandelion roots, leaves, flowers: Used as a general tonic. The white juice from the stem is wonderful for curing warts. The root is dried and the leaves can be eaten in salad. The root, baked and ground, makes a great coffee substitute. Juice is a diuretic. Use a handful of flower tops to 1 pint of boiling water, steep 10 minutes and strain. Drink this several times a day.

Dill eaten to relieve intestinal gas. In Europe, a weak dill tea is given to babies to relieve colic

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) - Used as a regulator for female hormones. Helps with cramping and PMS. Tones a weak uterus and regulates menstrual hormones.

Dragon's Claw see: Vervain

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) - Boosts the immune system. Can be used as an antiseptic and also has anti-viral properties. Useful for allergies, sore throat, cough, cold, and flu or to keep from getting sick. Prolonged use can cause low sperm count in males.

Elder leaves, fruit, flowers: feverish colds, flu. Leaves are used in urinary troubles and as treatment for colds. The berries are used with other herbs for colds and coughs (dried berries are often used instead of currants).

Ehpedra twigs: powdered form taken as pill for asthma and chest complaints. Weight reduction. Tea helps break up congestion during severe colds.

Eyebright Used for weak eyes and as a general tonic for the eyes. Frequently used in a compound. Use to treat hay fever, cough, sore throat, cold and flu symptoms.

False Unicorn (Chamaclirium luteum) - Used for reproductive health such as female infertility, late periods, threatened miscarriage, male impotence, leukorrhea, and contains estrogen precursors.

Fennel all parts used in the tea form: to expel mucus, increases milk production, digestive aid, calms nervous stomachs. An appetite suppressant. Used in tea form to expel mucus.

Fenugreek tea form: also to expel mucus with bad cases of bronchitis

Garlic high and low blood pressure, improves circulation; removing parasites and infections. putting garlic in your pets food will keep the fleas away. This will keep fleas and mosquitoes from biting you as well. Laxative, good for physical strength. Effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Prevents cold, flu, and other infectious diseases. Lowers the risk of colon cancer. Lowers tension. Garlic vinegar can be used to disinfect wounds and soothe rheumatic pain and any common pain (made from one liter of vinegar and ten cloves of crushed garlic steeped for at least 10 days). Shrinks warts, relieves pain from teeth and earaches. To ease the pain of aching joints, a toothache or an earache, place a crushed raw bulb of garlic on a peice of gauze and place over the area of pain. For joints, try using garlic paste.

Ginger (Asarum canadense) - tea form: for cramps and nausea; externally for stiffness; add in cooking to detoxify meat, especially chicken. May prevent motion sickness, quells nausea, ginger wine helps to relieve menstrual cramps. For a comforting way to relieve the chills and congestion of a cold, try ginger tea: Simmer one or two slices of fresh ginger toot in water for 10 minutes, add a pinch of cinnamon for piquancy. Indigestion, stimulates digestive organs, migraines. Added to bath to increase circulation and for pain - use just a few sprinkles in the bath, not too much. For pain, soak a cloth in ginger and apply directly to the painful area.

Ginko Bilboa Is said to improve memory problems related to aging; recent studies show it does improve circulation, including circulation to the brain, which may explain its benefits.

Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) - root: tonic for the whole system. The Chinese use ginseng as a reproductive tonic, and to strengthen the immune system, alleviate fever and pain, promote wound healing, overcome depression and fatigue, and treat impotence. tonic, prolonged life, blood circulation (especially to the brain), mild painkiller, Reported to successfully treat asthma, bronchitis, cancer, flatulence, diabetes, weakness, fever, coughs and heartburn, and a mild stimulant. In tea form it helps to relieve stress and moderate heart disease.

Goldenrod root: tonic for stomach and liver

Golden Seal A wonderful catarrh remedy and tonic. The tincture should be used with care and should be taken in one-drop doses, with water only.

Greater Celandine For eye infections, also cases of jaundice.

Ground Ivy Whilst not really an Ivy (the common name of which is Alehoof), this is a good remedy for rheumatism, indigestion and kidney complaints.

Hibiscus an aphrodisiac.

Hollyhock roots, leaves: treat colds and chest complaints.

Horehound flowers: cough and sore throat treatment. Use for all bronchial disorders.

Irish Moss dried plant: colds, chest disorders. Used in salves for external treatment of cuts, wounds and skin disorders.
Juniper Berries Large quantities acts as a diuretic that may cause uterine contractions.

Lavender An aromatic. Leaves and flowers: 3 tablespoons to 6 cups of water make a good sedative, headache treatment, and digestive aid. Strong antiseptic. Relieves tension. Used in oil or tincture form to heal cuts, burns or scalds (tincture only), bites. Tincture acts as a tonic for colds, chills, and the flu. Antidepressant and detoxifier. Add to sachets and incense to induce sleep. Stimulates the immune system. An aphrodisiac. Also used as an insect repellent.

Lemon Sweetens breath. Antiseptic, antibacterial and hypertensive. For chills and sore throat, the juice of a lemon mixed in a glass of honey and warm water, taken 3 times daily should help. For nose bleeds, apply a small piece of cotton, soaked in lemon juice. In oil form it is used for treating warts, insect bites, tension headaches, eliminates cellulite, and is an anti-wrinkle tonic.. Stimulates the digestive system. Also makes a good skin cleanser, hair rinse for blondes, and cleaning agent for brass and silver.

Lemon Balm top of plant in the tea form: induces sweating and helps reduce fevers. Used extensively just for pleasant tasting tea.

Lemon Verbena leaves: for flavoring other teas, used to relax and reduce fevers from colds and the flu. Use at first sign of a nervous headache. Settles upset stomachs.

Lesser Celandine for the treatment of piles. Often used with Witch Hazel.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) - Root is used by women as a treatment during and after menopause. Used for insufficiency of the adrenal gland and contains saponins. Found to help with infrequent menstrual cycles. Helps with polycystic ovary disease by balancing elevated testosterone and lowered estrogen levels in women.

Lobelia bronchial disorders and asthma. Use with caution as only 50mg of the dried herb has caused poisoning symptoms.

Lungwort For coughs and all chest affections.

Marigold As an ointment, it will cure many skin troubles; as a tincture it is far better than iodine to hasten the healing process. The flowers and leaves can be used in salads. Planting this flower in your garden and around your home will keep insects away. For internal use the flowers are prepared by infusion. Flu, fever, rheumatism, jaundice, and painful menstruation. Buds are made into compresses for burns. Ointment from the petals helps chapped hands, varicose veins, eczema and inflammation. To ease inflammation, dip a compress into a strong marigold tea combined with an equal part of apple cider vinegar. Sprains can also be helped with marigold petals steeped in vinegar, or make a lotion with milk. Simmer 12 heads in 2 cups milk, steep, strain and apply. Also use as an antiseptic.

Mint chewing the leaves can freshen the breath. tea form aids upset stomachs, flu, and can be used to ease hiccups. Inhale the leaves in boiling water for head colds and asthma. For headaches, lie in a dark room with fresh peppermint leaves on the forehead. Aids the respiratory and circulatory systems, anti-inflammatory and an antiseptic, indigestion, flatulence, varicose veins, skin irritations, rheumatism, toothache, and general fatigue.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) - Take during transition to ease labor. Sedative. Helps to ease false labor pains. Heart tonic, antispasmotic, emmenagogue, relieves stress, anxiety, and tension.

Mouse Ear A good remedy for whooping cough.

Mullein all parts used: helps in treatment of all bronchial disorders and inhibits certain bacteria. Treatment for asthma. Also an antibiotic and used in treatment of colds.

Mustard Used in poultices and smelling salts to relieve pain and congestion. I have also heard that chewing mustard seeds will induce abortion.

Myrrh Myrrh oil can act as a mosquito repellent, and in tincture form it is a good treatment for gums.

Nettle (Urtica diocia) - upper plant used: Tea from leaves cures nettle rash. Also used to treat arthritis pains and as a diuretic. Used for purifying the blood and is high in silica, iron, and potassium.Used to treat nervous and childhood eczema. Good for allergies (300mgs). Also a good hair rinse. Sniffing nettle powder is said to cure nosebleed. High in vitamin C and iron. Tea form can ease asthma and increase energy.
Oregano Used in a tea it aids digestion; also alleviates the congestion of a cold. Also a stimulant.

Pansy flowers and leaves: good for treating colds and congestion. A wonderful heart tonic.

Parsley whole herb: diuretic and used to treat bladder and kidney infections. When consumed in portions of at least an ounce, this herb contains useful amounts of vitamin C (fresh parsley only), calcium, iron and potassium; it is also high in bioflavonoids, monoterpenes and other anticancer Compounds. Fresh parsley leaves in tea form treats cramps. Dried root decoctions eases urinary infections and arthritis. Crushed leaves relieve insect bites, and may be applied in poultice form to sprains.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) - Helps to relieve nerve pain and to get a restful sleep. Works as an anodyne, hypnotic, sedative, and antispasmodic. May be used for hysteria and seizures.

Pennyroyal leaves: menstrual cramps because it stimulates uterine muscles. Should never be used by pregnant women. Relieves upset stomachs and is a mild relaxant. Keeps mosquitoes away.
Peppermint leaves and flowers: treat bronchial disorders. A mild relaxant and good for colds and chest complaints. Dispels hardened mucus from the system.

Pilewort as its name suggests, for the treatment of piles. Often used with Witch Hazel. Its common name is Lesser Celandine, though it has no relation to the Greater Celandine.

Pine Buds prepared by decoction act as an expectorant and antiseptic and are used for inhalation for head colds. Also boil needles in hot water for head colds. Green cones and needles are added to bath water to ease muscle pains and swelling.

Plantain a cooling herb. Fresh leaves can be used as a relief from insect bites, if applied at once. Used a lot with other herbs for blood medicines. Also an expectorant and an antiseptic.

Prickly Lettuce gum and leaves: strong sedative. Helps remove excretions from the bronchial system. Useful in treating colds and coughs.

Pumpkin Seed expels worms

Purslane whole above ground herb: treats scours in animals and a great treatment for kidney problems.

Raspberry (Red) (Rhubus idaeus) - whole plant: used for female complaints. Leaves and fruit used for astringent properties. Roots used as an antibiotic. The leaves are very well known for bringing about easy childbirth by relaxing the uterus (drink one to two cups per day during the last trimester). Blackberry and strawberry leaves have similar properties but Raspberry leaves are considered the best. Nutritious and may help relieve nausea. Helps with menstrual pain.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) - flowers: treatment of skin disorders caused by impurities of the blood as it is a blood cleanser. Good as a tea for weight loss. Rich in nutrients, isovlavones, and coumestans. May help with fertility in women with low estrogen levels.

Rose Conserves of roses or rose petals in honey are often recommended for nausea and sore throats. Roses are high in vitamin C.

Rosemary leaves in the tea form: for treating headaches or body aches, astringent in nature and a muscle relaxer. Relieves tension headaches. Promotes healing of wounds, mild stimulant, flu, mental and physical tonic. Oil form treats muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraine headaches, coughs, flu and diabetes. Excellent remedy for acne or cellulite. When the leaves are soaked in wine for two weeks, small glasses may be taken as a digestive aid. Oil of rosemary is excellent in hair conditioners, and the flowers of this herb may be added to lotion recipes to improve the complextion.

Sage top is used: Relaxant, nervous headaches, releases tension. Tea is used as a rinse for treatment of dandruff and prevent graying of hair and is used in a compress for skin discomforts. Clears up the bronchial system. The tea is used as a digestive aid and as a mouthwash or gargle to ease painful gums, mouth ulcers and a sore throat. Can be used as part of a honey wine to fight colds and fever. Made into a cream, it is good for muscular pain, and if dried and smoked sometimes gives relief to asthma.

Saw Palmetto (Serenos repens) - The berries of this plant may improve urinary flow and prevent benign prostate enlargement and infection. Research indicates that it may alleviate symptoms related to an enlarged prostate. Increases endurance. Strenghtens the male reproductive system and acts as a fertility aid for women. Galactagogue.

Senna Leaves These act in a similar fashion to Senna Pods. The leaves are usually taken with ginger to cure constipation.

Sheep Sorrel leaves: Used to treat cancer and blood ailments. Cleans the urinary system.

Shepherd's Purse whole plant: stops hemorrhages affecting the uterus, stomach, lungs and kidneys. Increases urine flow and helps remove toxins from system.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) - An overall tonic that stimulates and increases fertility.

Skullcap above ground parts are used: sedative, relaxant. Relieves headaches and all nervous disorders.

Slippery Elm inner bark: colds, expectorant, emollient, soothes bronchial system. Used as a skin cleanser and tonic. A special invalid food is made from the bark, which can be digested by the weakest digestive organs and cannot be vomited. In soap, it is an excellent skin soother.

Solomon's Seal root: causes vigorous expectoration during treatment of chest disorders. Use with caution as an overdose can cause poisoning symptoms.

Spearmint leaves and flowering top: treats colic in infants, upsets of the digestive tract. A mild diuretic.

Squaw Vine (Mitchella repens) - A mild nervine and is good for digestion. Used for painful uterine cramping, helps during labor, and is an overall uterine tonic.

St. Johnswort Bedwetting, lack of energy, depression. The oil has remarkable soothing and healing action when rubbed into painful joints and strained muscles. Make a tea with 1 tablespoon to 8 oz of water, for a strong antidote for depression.

Strawberry leaves: blood treatment, minerals, treats scurvy and mineral deficiency. Treats gout.

Sweet Woodruff above ground parts: antiseptic and used for internal and external purposes.

Tansy The fresh leaves can be used in a salad. The dried herb is used for hysteria, morning sickness and for the expulsion of worms in children. Boiled, it is used as a heart tonic. Make into a compress for strains and bruises.

Thyme whole plant above ground, tea form: to rid of intestinal worms; can also be used as a mouthwash. Internal and external antiseptic. A tea to quiet irritable bowels, as a gargle for a sore throat, or as a syrup to treat a cough or chest congestion. Powerful antivirial, antibiotic, and diuretic properties. It helps eliminate wastes from the body. Whooping coughs, warts, rheumatism and acne. A strong antiseptic which when prepared by infusion is useful for poor digestion, exhaustion, colds, and infections, and with honey is an effective treatment for sore throats. Fever, headache, insect repellant,

Tumeric added to warm milk, regulates menstrual cycle. A natural antibiotic used to treat infammation and digestive disorders. An alcohol based tincture of valerian clears up poison ivy and rashes when used on the skin.

Uva Ursi (Arcostaphylos uva-ursi) - Urinary tract antiseptic and for kidney and bladder stones. Anti-microbial.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) - too much may cause poisoning symptoms. Dried powdered root: one of the best sedatives. Treats high blood pressure. The root is used to cure insomnia without a drugging effect. Also used for curing pains in many parts of the body. Anxiety, nervousness, headaches, premenstrual syndrome and menstrual cramping, intestinal colic, migraines, and rheumatic pain. For sleep, before bed take 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 pint of water and simmer. Can be used as catnip.

Vervain Good for eye compresses and hair tonics. Sedative, anticoagulant.

Violet flower, leaves, fruit: sedative. More vitamin A than any other plant. Sedative and a tonic. Can also be used in salads. Thought to be a cure for cancerous growths of tumor when used with red clover heads.
Wild Cherry For men, tea made from the bark is an excellent hair tonic and hair restorer. A stronger mixture worked into the scalp for a period of time is said to grow hair on a bald man.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea spp.) - root: used for post-menopausal women. Treats menopausal symptoms. Treatment for asthma and bronchial disorders. Wild yam can also increase progesterone levels in women. Antispasmodic. Used to treat uterine cramps and pain in the ovaries and uterus.

Willow leaves, bark, twigs in the tea form: Relieves all kinds of discomfort. Source of what we know as aspirin. Pain reliever.

Witch Hazel Used for checking bleeding piles and bleeding from wounds. the prepared liquid is used for most things and can certainly be used on all cuts, sprains, bruises, etc. In tincture form it is good as a mouth rinse and to ease hemorrhoids and for acne. As a compress, witch hazel can be applied to insect bites and other skin irritations.

Yarrow Top part is used: Used as a pain reliever and helps blood clotting. An internal and external astringent. Use to intensify the power of other herbs when taken together. Helps to expel toxins and is useful in treating colds and infection. As a poultice, can be used to prevent infection and swelling. Tea form is good for arthritis symptoms and aching, back pain, sore muscles and joints.

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Studies come and go. The study du jour might tout medicinal herbs or trash them. But people who focus only on the latest study lose something important—perspective. Want to use herbs confidently? Then take the long view. Examine the evidence that accumulates slowly over many years. The following 16 herbs have stood the test of time and are proven to be reliable healers. Not every study supports their use (the same could be said for most pharmaceuticals), but the weight of the evidence clearly shows that these herbs are safe (with certain caveats) and effective. They deserve a place in your medicine cabinet.

Aloe for Burns and Cuts

Aloe (Aloe vera) is the herb for minor burns and cuts. In one study published in the Journal of Dermatological Surgery and Oncology, 27 people had burns treated with aloe or standard medical care. In the standard-care group, healing took 18 days, but in the aloe group, it took only 12 days. “Aloe is my first choice for burns,” says botanist James Duke, Ph.D., former chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Medicinal Plant Research Laboratory and author of The Green Pharmacy (Rodale, 2000). “Keep a potted aloe on your kitchen windowsill. For minor burns, snip off a thick leaf. Slit it open. Scoop out the inner leaf gel and apply it to the burn once or twice a day.” Aloe requires no care beyond weekly watering.

Dosage: If you use a commercial aloe gel, follow label directions.

Red Flags: Aloe helps heal superficial wounds but not deep wounds, such as surgical incisions.

Black Cohosh for Hot Flashes

American Indians first introduced colonists to black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), which they used to treat many conditions, including menstrual problems and recovery from childbirth. For 40 years, Europeans have used black cohosh to treat menopausal discomforts. During the past decade, the herb has become popular in the United States. Occasionally, a study questions its benefit, but the clear majority shows black cohosh effective for hot flashes. How the herb works is still a mystery, but it does not act like estrogen, so it’s safe for women who can’t take the female sex hormone—for example, those with a history of breast cancer. “Black cohosh is definitely worth a try,” says Mark Blumenthal, executive director of the Austin, Texas-based American Botanical Council (ABC), the nation’s leading herb-education organization, “especially now that hormone replacement therapy has been shown to do more harm than good.”

Dosage: Follow label directions.

Red Flags: Side effects are rare but possible: A few users have reported stomach distress, dizziness, headache and allergic reactions. Commission E, the German equivalent of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, says black cohosh should not be taken for longer than six months. After that, consult your doctor or herbalist.

Chamomile for Indigestion and Relaxation

Remember The Tale of Peter Rabbit? After the young bunny’s “hare”-raising adventures, his mother soothes his jangled nerves and upset stomach with chamomile tea. Peter’s mother was right. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) soothes both the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

Dosage: 1 tea bag or 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep a few minutes and drink as much as you’d like.

Red Flags: Allergic reactions are possible, especially if you’re allergic to pollens.

Cranberry to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

Cranberry juice—and the dried berries and extract—prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall long enough to cause infection, according to a 2004 article published in Clinical Infectious Disease. Many studies confirm the value of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) in the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs). In a 2002 study, Canadian researchers gave 150 women one of three treatments: cranberry juice (three cups a day), cranberry tablets (3 daily) or a placebo. One year later, compared with the placebo group, the women who took cranberry experienced significantly fewer UTIs. Cranberry juice cocktail and dried cranberries are available at health-food stores and supermarkets. Capsules containing cranberry extract are available at health-food stores and many pharmacies. “I recommend cranberry for UTI,”  Duke says. “But if you drink the juice, you have to drink a lot of it. It’s usually easier to munch on the dried berries or take capsules.”

Dosage: If you use cranberry juice cocktail, drink at least three cups a day. Try to select one with less sugar and a higher content of cranberry juice, or drink 100-percent cranberry juice diluted in apple juice. If you use dried cranberries, munch on a handful or two a day. If you use commercial cranberry extract, you should follow label directions.

Red Flags: None.

Echinacea for Colds

For reasons that remain unclear, the root of daisy-like echinacea (Echinaceaspp.) bolsters the immune system and helps the body fight colds. An occasional study shows no treatment benefit, but most show that echinacea minimizes symptoms and speeds recovery by at least a day or two. The most comprehensive investigation of echinacea’s cold-fighting power was a University of Wisconsin analysis of nine studies. Eight showed significant treatment benefit—milder symptoms and briefer colds. Most recently, Canadian researchers gave echinacea or a placebo to 128 people coming down with colds. They took 10 doses the first day and four doses for the next seven days. The echinacea group had 23 percent milder symptoms. However, echinacea does not prevent colds.  “I don’t recommend it for cold prevention,” Duke says. “But as soon as my wife or I feel a cold coming on, we take echinacea. Our colds are mild and brief.” 

Dosage: Echinacea is available in teas, juice, tinctures and capsules. Follow label directions. Typical directions are to take it several times a day at first, and then taper off as you begin to feel better.

Red Flags: Liquid echinacea products can cause temporary, harmless numbing or tingling of the tongue. Some people don’t like echinacea’s sharp taste. Minor stomach upset is possible with tincture. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, see a doctor.

Flaxseed for Menopausal Discomforts and Prevention of Osteoporosis and Heart Disease

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) is rich in plant estrogens (phytoestrogens). At Laval University, Quebec, researchers gave 25 menopausal women hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or flaxseed (1.5 ounces daily mixed into food). Six months later, flaxseed relieved hot flashes as well as HRT. Flaxseed also mimics HRT’s bone-preserving ability. Oklahoma State researchers gave a placebo or flaxseed (1.5 ounces daily) to 38 postmenopausal women for 14 weeks, and measured calcium excretion in their urine, an index of calcium loss from bone. The flaxseed group showed decreased calcium excretion, meaning reduced bone loss. Recent research published in Drug News and Perspectives also suggests that flaxseed lowers cholesterol and risk of heart disease.

Dosage: 1.5 ounces per day, mixed into food.

Red Flags: Women who cannot take estrogen should consult their doctors before using flaxseed.

Garlic for Cholesterol Control and Cancer Prevention

Researchers at Penn State University gave men with high cholesterol either garlic (Allium sativum) or a placebo. The herb lowered their total cholesterol 7 percent. For every 1 percent decrease in total cholesterol, risk of heart attack drops 2 percent. So according to this study, garlic can reduce heart attack risk by 14 percent. Occasionally, a study shows no benefit, but the vast majority shows that garlic reduces cholesterol and helps prevent heart disease. However, garlic does not reduce cholesterol as much as the statin drugs. If your cholesterol is really high, you may need medication.

Garlic also helps prevent several cancers. In the Iowa Women’s Health Study, researchers followed 41,387 middle-aged women for five years. Those who ate the most garlic had the lowest risk of colon cancer. Fruit and vegetable consumption in general helps prevent cancer, but in this study, of all plant foods analyzed, garlic yielded the greatest preventive benefit. Other studies show that garlic also helps prevent prostate, esophageal, stomach and bladder cancer.

Dosage: Most studies have used approximately the equivalent of one clove a day. Garlic works best when it’s raw or only slightly cooked. Or take garlic supplements, including deodorized brands, which have a similar cholesterol-lowering effect. Garlic supplements with proven benefit include Kwai and Kyolic. Follow label directions. 

Red Flags: Garlic impairs blood clotting. If you have a bleeding disorder, don’t take it. If you notice increased bruising, stop taking it, and consult your physician. Stop taking garlic at least two weeks before scheduled surgery, and make sure to inform your physician/surgeon of garlic supplementation.

Ginger for Nausea

Perhaps your grandmother gave you ginger ale for an upset stomach. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an indigestion soother that also relieves nausea. Australian researchers gave 120 pregnant women either a placebo or capsules containing 1.5 grams of ginger powder (about a teaspoon). Almost immediately, the ginger group experienced significantly less nausea.

Several studies also show that the herb prevents motion sickness. Danish researchers tested it on 80 naval cadets in heavy seas. Compared with those who took a placebo, the ginger group experienced 72 percent less seasickness. To prevent motion sickness, take a capsule containing 1,000 mg of powdered gingerroot about an hour before you embark, and every two hours during your journey.  “I use ginger to prevent seasickness,” Duke says.  “It works for me.”

Dosage: Start with 1,000 to 1,500 mg. If necessary, take more. Ginger is safe. Or brew a tea using 2 teaspoons of fresh grated root per cup of boiling water. Or drink ginger ale—just make sure it contains real ginger. The label should say ginger extract, not artificial flavor.

Red Flags: Heartburn is possible.

Horse Chestnut for Varicose Veins

Because of genetics, aging or work that requires extended standing or sitting, the walls of leg veins can weaken. As a result, blood pools in the calves and fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing unsightly varicose veins. Mainstream medicine treats varicose veins with support hose and surgery. Add horse chestnut seed extract (Aesculus hippocastanum) to the list. It contains a compound (aescin) that strengthens vein walls, decreasing fluid leakage. Several studies show that it’s effective for varicose veins. German researchers gave 240 varicose vein sufferers either compression stockings or horse chestnut (50 mg aescin twice a day). After 12 weeks, both groups experienced equal relief. Horse chestnut won’t eliminate every little spider vein and it may not help varicose veins you’ve had for years. Many herbalists take it before long plane flights.

Dosage: Follow label directions. Studies use 50 mg of aescin once or twice a day.

Red Flags: Off the tree, horse chestnuts are toxic. Ingestion has killed children. Commercial extracts are detoxified and safe.

Milk Thistle for Liver Health

Mainstream medicine doesn’t have much to offer those with liver disease (such as hepatitis and cirrhosis). But seeds of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) help. They contain three compounds, collectively known as silymarin, that have a remarkable ability to protect and heal the liver. Italian researchers have shown that milk thistle speeds recovery from hepatitis. Several studies show that the herb helps treat alcoholic cirrhosis. In an Austrian study, compared with alcoholics who did not use milk thistle, those who did were significantly more likely to survive. Milk thistle also helps prevent liver damage from powerful drugs. Most remarkably, this herb treats amanita (“death cap”) mushroom poisoning better than mainstream medical treatments. Swiss researchers analyzed 452 cases of mushroom poisoning. Among those who received standard treatment, 18 percent died. But in the silymarin group, the death rate was only 10 percent, a highly significant difference. “Anyone who drinks alcohol and takes medication regularly might benefit from milk thistle,” Duke says. 

Dosage: The typically recommended dose is 140 mg silymarin three times a day.

Red Flags: Side effects are rare, but headache, stomach distress, nausea, hives, itching and joint pain are possible.

Peppermint for Indigestion

Today’s after-dinner mints are an echo of peppermint’s (Mentha ×piperita) traditional use as a stomach soother. German researchers gave 96 indigestion sufferers either a placebo or a peppermint-caraway (Carum carvi) combination. (Caraway seed is another traditional stomach soother.) Four weeks later, 21 percent of the placebo group was much improved, but in the herb group, the figure was 67 percent. “Whenever I get indigestion,” Duke says, “I go out to the garden, pick some peppermint leaves and chew them.”

Dosage: A cup or two of peppermint tea usually produces relief.

Red Flags: None.

St. John’s Wort for Depression

Abundant evidence shows that St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression. While an occasional study suggests otherwise, the vast majority show that for mild to moderate depression, St. John’s wort works as well as Prozac and Zoloft. Researchers in Montreal gave 87 depression sufferers either the herb (900 to 1,800 mg a day) or a standard dose of Zoloft (50 to 100 mg a day). After 12 weeks, both groups showed the same mood elevation based on standard psychological tests. But the herb caused fewer side effects. And a German study shows that the herb is as effective as Prozac—again with fewer side effects. “For mild to moderate depression,” the ABC’s Blumenthal says, “the evidence is strongly in favor of St. John’s wort.”

Dosage: Follow label directions. Studies showing benefits have used 600 to 1,800 mg a day. Most studies have used 900 mg a day.

Red Flags: Stomach upset is possible. St. John’s wort reduces the effectiveness of birth control pills. If you take this herb, don’t use the Pill. The herb also interacts with many other drugs, possibly reducing their effectiveness. If you take medication regularly, consult your physician or pharmacist before using St. John’s wort.

Saw Palmetto for a Healthy Prostate

After age 50, the male prostate gland expands and pinches the urethra (urine tube). As a result, men develop urinary problems, notably, the need to urinate several times at night. In a study of 1,098 men with prostate symptoms, European researchers compared saw palmetto (Serenoa repens, 160 mg twice a day) with Proscar, the pharmaceutical treatment. After 26 weeks, both treatments were equally effective, but the herb caused fewer side effects. Minneapolis researchers analyzed 21 studies of saw palmetto for prostate enlargement. Their conclusion: It works as well as Proscar but causes fewer side effects. “I’ve used saw palmetto myself for years,” says Duke, now in his late seventies. “Every man I know who’s my age has had prostate surgery—except me.” 

Dosage: 160 mg of saw palmetto extract twice daily or 320 mg once.

Red Flags: None. However, at some point surgery may still be necessary.

Tea for Heart Health and Cancer Prevention

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is very high in antioxidants, which help prevent both heart disease and cancer. A five-year Dutch study of 3,454 older adults showed that compared with nondrinkers, those who drank two daily cups of tea had 46 percent less risk of heart attack. Drinking tea also improves survival odds after heart attack, according to 2002 study published in Circulation. Meanwhile, University of California, Los Angeles, researchers surveyed 1,100 Asian women, half of whom had breast cancer. Those who were cancer-free drank the most tea. Japanese researchers have discovered that as breast cancer survivors’ tea consumption increases, their risk of recurrence decreases. Tea also appears to protect against cancers of the colon, rectum, pancreas and esophagus.

Note: All types of tea come from the leaves of the same plant. Drying the leaves produces green tea. Fermenting them yields black tea. Both green and black tea help prevent heart disease and cancer. But for reasons that remain unclear, only green tea reduces risk of breast cancer.

Dosage: One to four cups a day, or as much as you enjoy. A cup of tea has approximately half as much caffeine as a cup of instant coffee and one-third the caffeine of a cup of standard brewed coffee.

Red Flags: Tea contains caffeine and may cause insomnia, jitters and irritability.

Valerian for Insomnia

Several studies have validated valerian’s centuries-old reputation as a sleep aid, and show it often works as well as pharmaceutical sleeping pills. German researchers gave 202 chronic insomniacs either valerian (Valeriana officinalis) or a pharmaceutical sedative. After six weeks, both treatments were equally effective. But unlike sleeping pills, valerian is nonaddictive. “Valerian doesn’t knock you out like sleeping pills do,”  Blumenthal explains. “It can take a few weeks for it to work. But if you keep taking it, valerian usually helps.”

Dosage: Follow label directions.

Red Flags: Raw valerian root smells and tastes terrible. Use a commercial preparation. Some include other tranquilizing herbs, such as hops or lemon balm.

Vitex for PMS

The ancient Greeks called vitex “chaste tree” in the mistaken belief that its berries suppress libido. Actually, its berries balance levels of estrogen and progesterone, which minimizes the mood swings, breast tenderness and bloating of PMS. Many studies show that vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) works. When 1,634 German PMS sufferers took it for three months, 93 percent reported relief from mood upsets, in a study published in 2000 in the Journal of Women’s Health & Gender-Based Medicine. In tests against two other popular PMS treatments, vitamin B6 and Prozac, vitex worked almost as well as the popular antidepressant and “considerably” better than the vitamin. It may take up to three months of daily use to experience benefit. “Vitex is safe,” Blumenthal says, “and the studies are convincing.” 

Dosage: Vitex is available in pills, capsules and tincture. Follow label directions.

Red Flags: Some women report side effects, such as stomach distress, headache and increased menstrual flow.