What Can Herbs Do for You?
I can never keep my herbs straight, so here is a list of the most commonly taken herbal supplements and what they are good for:
Echinacea
Benefits – Strengthens the immune system, helps prevent colds and flu, and aids in overall healing.
Side Effects – May cause liver inflammation if used in conjunction with certain other medications such as anabolic steroids and methotrexate, which are often used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Gingko
Benefits – Increases blood circulation and oxygenation, and improves memory and mental alertness.
Side Effects – May increase bleeding, especially in people who already take certain anti-clotting medications.
Goldenseal
Benefits – Reduces inflammation and can be used as a mild laxative.
Side Effects – May increase swelling or high blood pressure.
Feverfew
Benefits – Used to help prevent migraine headaches, and to treat arthritis, rheumatic disease and allergies.
Side Effects – May increase bleeding, especially in people who already take certain anti-clotting medications.
St. John’s Wort
Benefits – Used for mild-to-moderate depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Side Effects – May prolong the effects of certain anesthetics.
Garlic
Benefits – Helps to lower cholesterol, triglyceride levels and blood pressure.
Side Effects – May increase bleeding, especially in people who already take certain anti-clotting medications.
Ginseng
Benefits – Increases physical stamina and mental concentration.
Side Effects – May increase heart rate or high blood pressure. May cause bleeding in women after menopause. May decrease the effectiveness of certain anti-clotting medications.
Tags: diet, Health, herbal remedies, herbs, Nutrition
