Many are turning to alternative medicine choices to avoid surgery or drugs that can have serious side effects. It is a good idea to do your research before taking herbs and supplements. Check with your doctor if you are taking any prescription medications to be sure that there will be no adverse reactions between your prescription drug and the herbs or supplements you intend to take.
If you are pregnant it is wise to run by your obstetrician any herb or supplement you are thinking of taking because certain herbs and supplements are contraindicated for women who are pregnant or nursing. It is best to be safe than sorry when it comes to putting anything into your body while pregnant or nursing a baby or young child. To help you with your research here are some basic facts about some of the more popular herbs and supplements.
Aloe Vera:
Aloe Vera has been used for many thousands of years and is a transparent gel that comes from the pulp taken from the meaty insides of the Aloe vera leaf. This gel has been used as a topical for so long because it is so versatile. It can be used to treat burns, dermatological conditions such as rashes and skin infections.
There has been many studies done on the aloe vera plant and strong scientific evidence gathered that supports the fact that the dried latex from the inner lining of the aloe vera leaf is also good as an oral laxative. Other studies confirm the fact that there are many immunomodulatory properties in the aloe gel that work well on skin inflammation and to heal wounds.
Belladonna:
The herb, belladonna has been used for centuries to relieve headaches, to reduce inflammation and relieve motion sickness. It has also been used to relieve various menstrual symptoms and to help with those suffering from peptic ulcer disease. Unfortunately there are not many studies done on belladonna alone but there is some research available where the herb has been studied along with other agents, so there is not sufficient evidence currently concerning the benefits of belladonna. There are adverse effects noted by those who have used belladonna including dry mouth, flushing, constipation, confusion, delirium, urinary retention and pupillary dilation.
Biotin:
There is a B vitamin called, Biotin that contain certain enzymes that work on various parts of the body such as the intestinal tract, nervous system and skin. Studies have been conducted that reveal that biotin is necessary for several processes such as DNA replication and gene expression.
Biotin is contained in many of the foods we eat and our bodies naturally recycle much of the biotin it has already used so biotin deficiency is rare within your body and toxicity can occur if biotin intake is more than the body requires. It is possible for biotin overdose to be fatal. Biotin is very important to the body’s ability to function so it is an important B vitamin.
Black tea:
Taking the leaves from the Camillia sinensis, a perennial evergreen shrub and drying the leaves is how black tea is made. China has long used black tea, green tea, and oolong tea for medicinal purposes for over 5000 years. Black tea contains caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system, can be used to relax the smooth muscles of the lungs, and to stimulate the heart as well as to be used as a diuretic. Drinking one cup of black tea generally contains 50 milligrams of caffeine along with polyphenols, which are catechins, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids. Black tea also has tannin, trace elements and other vitamins.
The fruit of burdock has traditionally been used to lower blood sugar in animals and has been the center of attention in studies conducted on the burdock root regarding diabetes. This herb has been used to treat arthritis, diabetes and to help with those suffering from hair loss. It has also been used as a main ingredient in a popular cancer remedy Essiac®. To date there are no conclusive studies to show the benefits of using burdock for humans.
Used for thousands of years, this herb has been used for many purposes including anxiety, digestion problems, infant colic, and diaper rash, to heal wounds, and treat skin infections and skin inflammation including eczema. It has also been used to help those who suffer from sleep disorders as an herbal tea for a mild sedative. There are two different types of chamomile (German and Roman) that are used for health purposes. Roman chamomile is the more commonly used chamomile. To date there are still not enough studies done on chamomile to confirm the benefits of the herb and some allergic reactions have been reported including life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Coenzyme Q10:
Coenzyme Q10 is a necessary component for basic cell functioning and decreases with age. Patients that have certain chronic diseases such as certain cancers, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, heart conditions and muscular dystrophies have been reported to have low levels of CoQ10. It has also been discovered that certain prescription drugs can lower the level of CoQ10 in the body. Supplements of CoQ10 are available that can increase levels that have been depleted in the body although there are currently no studies that show conclusively that taking CoQ10 supplements is beneficial. It remains a controversial treatment today.
DHEA:
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that is made naturally in the human body and secreted by the adrenal gland. This hormone decreases as we age and has been reported to be low in individuals with type 2 diabetes, anorexia and end-stage kidney disease. Individuals with AIDS and adrenal insufficiency have also been known to have low levels of DHEA. Having too high of DHEA levels in the body could increase your risk for breast, ovarian and other hormone-sensitive cancers and the use of DHEA should be monitored by a doctor.
Garlic:
There have been many studies done on garlic regarding the effects oral garlic has on serum lipids. Enteric-coated or raw garlic have not been studied to date. Noted for those who take garlic is that it may have a small reduction in blood pressure, slow the aggregation of platelets, and may enhance the fibrinolytic activity within the blood needed for blood clotting. Caution should be taken by those who are at risk for bleeding disorders because multiple cases of bleeding have been associated with garlic usage. There are currently no studies that show any significant affect of garlic on blood glucose levels.
A naturally occurring compound called glucosamine has been found to be beneficial when taken in combination with chondroitin for those suffering from osteoarthritis.
Conclusion:
This is by no means an exhaustive list of possible herbs and supplements. This list points out the importance of researching any herb or supplement preparation that you intend to take regarding scientific studies, and possible adverse reactions. Herbs and supplements can be beneficial if used wisely and with the knowledge of your primary physician.
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