ivy leaf

Botanical name
Hedera helixParts used and where grownIvy is an evergreen climber native to the damp woods of western, central, and southern Europe. The leaf is used medicinally.1 It should be carefully distinguished from poison ivy found in the Americas.Ivy has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns** - Asthma
** - Bronchitis
** - Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)* - Cough
* - Stretch marks (topical)
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Ivy leaves were held in high regard by the ancients. They formed not only the poet’s crown but also the wreath of the Greek god of wine, Dionysus. The ancient Greeks believed that binding the forehead with ivy leaves would prevent the effects of inebriation.2 Greek priests presented a wreath of ivy to newlyweds, and ivy has been traditionally regarded as a symbol of fidelity. Romans regarded ivy as excellent feed for their cattle.3 Traditional herbalists have used ivy for a wide number of complaints, including bronchitis, whooping cough, arthritis, rheumatism, and dysentery. Decoctions of the herb were applied externally against lice, scabies, and sunburn.4
Active constituentsAlthough ivy’s composition has not been subject to detailed scientific investigations, it is known to contain 5–8% saponins.5 Other constituents in the leaf include an alkaloid called emetine that is similar to one found in the herb tylophora. Although emetine typically induces vomiting, in ivy leaf it seems to increase the secretion of mucus in the lungs. While the emetine content is very low in ivy, this could in part explain its traditional use as an expectorant (a substance that promotes the removal of mucous from the respiratory tract).6 Animal studies have shown the saponins found in ivy extract prevent the spasm of muscles in the bronchial area.7
While very few human clinical trials have been performed on ivy, a controlled trial in a group of children with bronchial asthma found that 25 drops of ivy leaf extract given twice per day was effective in improving airflow into the lungs after only three days of use.8 However, the incidence of cough and shortness of breath symptoms did not change during the short trial period. Ivy leaf is approved by the German Commission E for use against chronic inflammatory bronchial conditions and productive coughs due to its actions as an expectorant.9 One double-blind human trial found ivy leaf to be as effective as the drug ambroxol for treating the symptoms of chronic bronchitis.10
In addition to the use of ivy to treat asthma, clinical reports from Europe suggest that topical cream preparations containing ivy, horsetail, and lady’s mantle are beneficial in reducing, although not eliminating, skin stretch marks.11
How much is usually taken?Standardized ivy leaf extract can be taken by itself or in water at 25 drops twice per day as a supportive treatment for children with asthma.12 At least double this amount may be necessary to benefit adults with asthma. However, ivy is not intended to replace standard medical therapies and should only be used following consultation with a healthcare professional. A similar amount can be used for people with a cough or bronchitis.
Are there any side effects or interactions?The 0.3 gram daily tea preparation of the herb, suggested in the German Commission E monographs,13 is not recommended for pediatric use because the quantities of the saponins it contains are too variable and could induce nausea and vomiting. Since ivy contains small amounts of emetine, it is not recommended during pregnancy, as this specific alkaloid may increase uterine contractions.14 In addition, the leaf itself can be quite irritating when handled and may cause allergic skin reactions.15
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with ivy leaf.
Source: www.cncahealth.com

juniper

Botanical name
Juniperus communisParts used and where grownJuniper, an evergreen tree, grows mainly in the plains regions of Europe as well as in other parts of the world. The medicinal portions of the plant are referred to as berries, but they are actually dark blue-black scales from the cones of the tree. Unlike other pine cones, the juniper cones are fleshy and soft.Juniper has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns* - Edema (water retention)
* - Indigestion
* - Urinary tract infection
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Aside from being used as the flavoring agent in gin, juniper trees have contributed to the making of everything from soap to perfume.1 Many conditions have been treated in traditional herbal medicine with juniper berries, including gout, warts and skin growths, cancer, upset stomach, and various urinary tract and kidney diseases.
Active constituentsThe volatile oils, particularly terpinen-4-ol, may cause an increase in urine volume.2 According to some sources, juniper increases urine volume without a loss of electrolytes such as potassium.3 Juniper contains bitter substances, at least partly accounting for its traditional use in digestive upset and related problems.
How much is usually taken?The German Commission E monograph suggests 1/2–2 teaspoons of the dried fruit daily.4 To make a tea, 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water is added to 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of juniper berries and allowed to steep for twenty minutes in a tightly covered container. Drink one cup (250 ml) each morning and night. Juniper is often combined with other diuretic and anti-microbial herbs. As a capsule or tablet, 1–2 grams can be taken three times per day, or 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 ml) of tincture can be taken three times daily.
Are there any side effects or interactions?Excessive applications (greater than the amounts listed above) may cause kidney irritation. People with either acute or chronic inflammation of the kidneys or kidney failure should not use juniper. Juniper should not be taken for greater than four weeks without first consulting a healthcare professional. One report suggests that people with diabetes should use juniper cautiously as it may raise glucose levels.5
Application of the volatile oil directly to skin can cause a rash. Pregnant women should avoid juniper until further information is available, as it may cause uterine contractions.
Drug InteractionsCertain medicines interact with juniper: Some interactions may increase the need for juniper (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate juniper should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.Loop Diuretics (-)Spironolactone (-)Thiazide Diuretics (-)Triamterene (-)
Source: www.cncahealth.com

picrorhiza

Common names
Kutki, Katuka
Botanical name
Picrorhiza kurroaParts used and where grownThe herb originated in and continues to grow primarily in the Himalayan mountains. The rhizomes or underground stems of picrorhiza are used.
Picrorhiza has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns** - Asthma
** - Vitiligo
* - Hepatitis (acute viral)
* - Indigestion
* - Infection
* - Rheumatoid arthritis
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The bitter rhizomes of picrorhiza have been used for thousands of years in India to treat people with indigestion.1 It is also used to treat people with constipation due to insufficient digestive secretion and for fever due to all manner of infections.2
Active constituentsThe major constituents in picrorhiza are the glycosides picroside I, kutkoside, androsin, and apocynin. They have been shown in animal studies to be antiallergic, to inhibit platelet-activating factor (an important pro-inflammatory molecule),3 and to decrease joint inflammation.4 According to test tube and animal studies, picrorhiza has antioxidant actions, particularly in the liver.5 6 Picroliv (a commercial mixture containing picroside I and kutkoside) has been shown to have an immunostimulating effect in hamsters, helping to prevent infections.7 Picrorhiza increases bile production in the liver, according to rat studies.8 It has also been shown to protect animals from damage by several potent liver toxins, offering protection as good as or better than silymarin (the flavonoids found in milk thistle).9 10 However, it does not have the amount of human research as silymarin. Picrorhiza has also shown to reduce formation of liver cancer due to chemical exposures in animal studies.11
Human studies on this plant are not prolific. A series of cases of acute viral hepatitis in India were reportedly treated successfully by a combination of picrorhiza with a variety of minerals.12 A number of similar reports have appeared in Indian literature over the years. No double-blind clinical trials have yet been published, however.
Two preliminary trials suggest that picrorhiza may improve breathing in asthma patients and reduce the severity of asthma.13 14 Although, a follow-up double-blind trial did not confirm these earlier trials.15
A preliminary trial conducted in India found a small benefit for people with arthritis (primarily rheumatoid arthritis).16
Picrorhiza in combination with the drug methoxsalen was found in a preliminary trial to hasten recovery in people with vitiligo faster than those receiving methoxsalen and sun exposure alone.17
How much is usually taken?Between 400 and 1,500 mg of powdered, encapsulated picrorhiza per day has been recommended. One author considers this equivalent to the use of 1–2 ml of fluid extract twice per day.18 Picrorhiza tastes quite bitter. Combining with ginger root powder capsules or taking as tea can improve palatability.
Are there any side effects or interactions?Loose stools and colic have been reported when unprepared picrorhiza rhizomes are used as medicine. However, extracts in alcohol have shown much less tendency to cause such effects.19 No other adverse effects have been reported with picrorhiza. Although the use of the herb is not discouraged in India during pregnancy and breast-feeding, there is little information to determine the safety of the herb during these times.
Drug InteractionsCertain medicines interact with picrorhiza: Some interactions may increase the need for picrorhiza (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate picrorhiza should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.Isoniazid (+)
Source: www.cncahealth.com

kava

Botanical name
Piper methysticumParts used and where grownKava is a member of the pepper family and is native to many Pacific Ocean islands. The rhizome (underground stem) is used in modern herbal preparations.
Warning: Kava should be taken only with medical supervision. Kava is not for sale in certain parts of the world.Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
A nonalcoholic drink made from the root of kava played an important role in social ceremonies in some Pacific islands, including welcoming visiting royalty and at meetings of village elders. Kava was valued both for its mellowing effects and to encourage socializing. It was also noted for initiating a state of contentment, a greater sense of well-being, and enhanced mental acuity, memory, and sensory perception. Kava has also been used traditionally by healers in the Pacific islands to treat pain.
Active constituentsThe kava-lactones, sometimes referred to as kava-pyrones, are the most important active constituents in kava extracts. High-quality kava rhizome contains 5.5–8.3% kava-lactones.1 Medicinal extracts used in Europe contain 30–70% kava-lactones. Kava-lactones are thought to have anti-anxiety, mild analgesic (pain-relieving), muscle-relaxing, and anticonvulsant effects.2 3 Some researchers speculate that kava may directly influence the limbic system, the ancient part of the brain associated with emotions and other brain activities.4 Kava is a unique anti-anxiety alternative because it does not seem to impair reaction time or alertness when used in the amounts recommended below.5
Kava has been extensively studied as a treatment for anxiety.6 The amount often used in clinical trials is 100 mg of an extract (standardized to 70% kava-lactones) three times per day. Double-blind trials, including one that lasted six months, have shown that kava effectively reduces symptoms of anxiety in people with mild to moderate anxiety.7 8 One trial found that kava also reduced symptoms of anxiety in menopausal women,9 and in another study kava enhanced the anti-anxiety effect of hormone replacement therapy.10 One trial found kava to be just as effective as benzodiazepines (a common class of drugs prescribed for anxiety) in treating mild anxiety over the course of six weeks.11
How much is usually taken?For treatment of mild to moderate anxiety, kava extracts supplying 120–240 mg of kava-lactones per day in two or three divided doses are commonly recommended.12 Alternatively (although it has not been researched), 1–3 ml of fresh liquid kava tincture can be taken three times per day. Kava should not be taken for more than three months without the advice of a physician, according to the German Commission E monograph.13
Are there any side effects or interactions?In November 2001, German authorities announced that 24 cases of liver disease (including hepatitis, liver failure, and cirrhosis) associated with the use of kava had been reported in Germany; of these, one person died and three required a liver transplant.14
Prior to this report, it had been widely believed that kava did not cause any serious side effects. The 1998 edition of the German Commission E Monographs, considered to be an authoritative source on herbal medicines, does not mention liver disease in its discussion of kava’s side effects.15 Since that time, four case reports of kava-related liver toxicity have appeared in medical journals.16 17 18 19 In two of these cases, severe liver failure resulted in the need for a liver transplant. Most, though not all, of the individuals who developed liver damage while taking kava were also taking at least one other medication that has been associated with liver injury.20 That raises the possibility that these other drugs, rather than kava, may have been responsible for the problem in some cases. It is also conceivable that kava interacts with some of these drugs, thereby increasing their toxicity. However, some of the cases of kava-related liver disease cannot be explained by the concomitant use of other drugs.
The possibility that kava can cause liver damage is supported by a survey of an Aboriginal community in Australia. Although occasional users of kava in this community generally had normal liver function, laboratory evidence of liver injury was quite common among heavy users of the herb.21 Furthermore, the risk of liver damage was directly related to the amount of kava consumed. It is not clear how relevant these findings are to other communities, since the overall health of the Aborigines who were studied was relatively poor.
It is also unclear whether kava is safe when taken in “normal” amounts. A recent survey of 400 German medical practices revealed that 78% of the kava prescriptions that were written significantly exceeded the recommended amount.22 However, some of the 24 patients reported to German authorities were not exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended level of intake when they developed liver disease. In addition, in two of the four published case reports, the amount of kava used was equal to or only slightly higher than the manufacturer’s recommendation.23 Therefore, one cannot assume that the recommended level of intake of kava is safe for all individuals.
Health authorities worldwide are considering or implementing a ban on kava. Until additional information clarifies the extent of the risk involved, it is strongly recommended that all individuals consult their physician before taking kava. In addition, based on the available information, it seems that people with liver disease and those taking medications that have the potential to damage the liver should not take kava.
In recommended amounts, the most common side effect from kava use is mild gastrointestinal disturbances in some people. Kava may temporarily turn the skin yellow, according to some case studies.24 If this occurs, people should discontinue kava use. In rare cases, an allergic skin reaction, such as a rash, may occur.25 Enlargement of the pupils has also been reported after long-term use of kava.26 In the amounts discussed above, kava does not appear to be addictive.
Kava is not recommended for use by pregnant or breast-feeding women. It should not be taken together with other substances that also act on the central nervous system, such as alcohol, barbiturates, antidepressants, and antipsychotic drugs. One study found that large amounts of a traditional kava preparation did worsen cognitive impairment caused by alcohol consumption.27 However, at the amounts recommended above, kava does not appear to impair cognitive performance. Kava has also been reported to cause excessive sedation and grogginess when combined with benzodiazepines.28 One study found it was safe to drive after taking kava at the amounts listed above.29 However, the German Commission E monograph states that kava, when taken at the recommended levels, may adversely affect a person’s ability to safely drive or operate heavy machinery.30
Drug InteractionsCertain medicines interact with kava: Some interactions may increase the need for kava (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate kava should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Alprazolam (-)Buspirone (-)
Caution: Aside from the reported interactions, kava inhibits a number of the cytochrome P450 enzymes that play a role in the breakdown of many medications.31 Therefore, kava has the potential to interact with a wide range of medications, even if such interactions have not yet been reported. Individuals taking any medication who wish to use kava should check with their physician or pharmacist to determine whether inhibiting cytochrome P450 could cause an adverse drug interaction.
Source: www.cncahealth.com

kombucha

Kick the Soda Habit with Kombucha“If you’re a sweet-and-sour fan, kombucha may be your new favorite drink”
The healthful new way to curb your craving
by Judith H. Dern
Lots of people love the sweet carbonated taste of soda. According to the Beverage Marketing Group, the average American drinks 19 ounces of the stuff every day. Unfortunately, sodas—both mainstream and natural varieties—are packed with sugar and calories that can contribute to weight gain. The good news is that if you’re trying to kick the soda habit, you don’t have to give up the zest of carbonation or the sweetness of sugar. Instead, try kombucha.
Keep the carbonationKombucha is a naturally fermented tea that you can buy in ready-to-drink bottles. Through the fermentation process, some of the carbohydrates contained within the tea are converted into carbon dioxide. So kombucha delivers the same carbonated blast that soda does.
It tastes tart (from the fermentation) and sweet (from the addition of fruit juice or sugar). If you’re a sweet-and-sour fan, kombucha may be your new favorite drink.
Ditch the sugarKombucha contains only a fraction of the sugar and calories of soda. How much depends on whether you choose fruit juice–sweetened kombucha, which falls on the low end of the scale, or sugar-sweetened, which falls on the high end. But either way, kombucha’s got soda beat. Just look at the numbers:
20 ounces of pop packs 68 grams of sugar (16 teaspoons!) and 272 calories
20 ounces of sugar-sweetened kombucha contains 33 grams of sugar (8 teaspoons) and 132 calories
20 ounces of fruit juice–sweetened kombucha has just 8 grams of sugar (2 teaspoons) and 32 calories
Switch out your daily 20-ounce soda for 20 ounces of low-sugar kombucha and you’ll lose a whopping 20 pounds over the course of a year!
Support your gutNot only can kombucha help you cut calories, but it may have health benefits. Because it’s fermented, kombucha contains live beneficial bacteria called probiotics—the same critters that make yogurt good for you. (Look for unpasteurized or “raw” kombucha; heat destroys probiotics.) Studies have shown that probiotics such as acidophilus:
- Support the health of the gastro-intestinal tract
- Aid digestion
- Help alleviate diarrhea and constipation
Be kombucha-smartSusan Beck, Ph.D., L. Ac., CNS, a certified nutrition specialist with a focus on oncology, has only two cautions about drinking kombucha. First, don’t make your own; there have been several incidences of food poisoning linked to home-brewed kombucha. Second, don’t believe manufacturers’ claims that kombucha can cure cancer. “I have never seen any research that substantiates any of the cancer claims made for kombucha,” says Beck.

Source: www.cncahealth.com

artichoke as a food

Learn how easy it is to prepare this deliciously exotic flower
Best to buy
Artichokes are available all year long, and peak from March through May.
Cut & clean
Wash artichokes just before cooking. Cut off the tips of spikier outside leaves.
Power foodArtichokes are an excellent source of vitamin C and folic acid, and a good source of magnesium and potassium.
The whole ‘choke
Immerse clean, whole artichokes in a large pan of cold water and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil. Cover and bring to boil, simmering for 25 to 30 minutes. To eat, simply pull off leaves, dip in lemon butter, vinaigrette, or sauce, and scrape the pulp with teeth. Discard remainder of leaf.Preparation, uses, and tipsWash artichokes just before cooking. Cut off the tips of spikier outside leaves. To cook, place whole artichokes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil. Place a plate or pan lid on top to keep them completely immersed. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. To eat a whole cooked artichoke, pull off the leaves one by one, dip each leaf in melted butter, vinaigrette, or other dipping sauce, and scrape off the pulp from the thick end between your teeth. Discard the remainder of the leaf. Once you’ve eaten most of the outer leaves, pull the remaining inner leaves off to expose the inedible prickly choke. Using a sharp knife, cut around the edge beneath the prickles, or gently scrape the prickles off with a spoon to arrive at the tender heart, which can then be cut into pieces and eaten.Buying and storing tipsArtichokes are available all year long, and are at their peak from March through May. Look for heavy, deep-green artichokes with tightly packed leaves, avoiding those with heavy browning (a few brown spots are normal, generally indicating frost damage, and won’t affect the flavor). Store unwashed artichokes in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to four days. Artichoke hearts are also available in cans and jars, and as a frozen vegetable.
VarietiesThe familiar globe artichoke is the only true artichoke (Jerusalem artichokes are unrelated). Artichokes may range in color from dark violet to pale green, and in size from a golf ball to a softball. Baby artichokes are a bit more tender than globe and do not need to be trimmed.
Nutrition HighlightsArtichoke (raw), 1 medium
Calories: 60
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrate: 13g
Total Fat: 0gFiber: 7g
*Excellent source of: Vitamin C (14.98mg), and Folic acid (87.04mcg)
*Good source of: Copper (0.30mg), Magnesium (76.8mg), Manganese (0.33mg), Phosphorus (115.20mg), and Potassium (474mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.
Source: www.cncahealth.com

lavender

Botanical name
Lavandula officinalisParts used and where grownEastern European countries, particularly Bulgaria, as well as France, Britain, Australia, and Russia grow large quantities of lavender. The fragrant flowers of lavender are used in the preparation of herbal medicines.Lavender has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns** - Insomnia
** - Pregnancy (in bath, for perineal pain after childbirth)* - Indigestion and heartburn
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Traditionally, herbalists used lavender for a variety of conditions of the nervous system, including depression and fatigue.1 It has also been used for headache and rheumatism. Due to its delightful odor, lavender has found wide application in perfumes and cosmetics throughout history.
Active constituentsThe volatile oil (also called essential oil) of lavender contains many constituents, including perillyl alcohol and linalool. The oil is thought to be calming2 and thus can be helpful in some cases of insomnia. One study of elderly people with sleeping troubles found that inhaling lavender oil was as effective as some commonly prescribed sleep medications.3 Similar results were seen in another trial that included young and middle-aged people with insomnia.4 A large clinical trial found that lavender oil added to a bath was no more effective than a placebo for relieving perineal discomfort immediately after childbirth.5 However, perineal pain was reduced three to five days afterward. Lavender is recommended by the German Commission E monograph for indigestion and nervous intestinal discomfort.6
How much is usually taken?The German Commission E monograph suggests 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of the herb be taken as a tea.7 The tea can be made by steeping 2 teaspoons (10 grams) of leaves in 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water for fifteen minutes. Three cups (750 ml) can be consumed each day. For internal applications, 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–4 ml) of tincture can be taken two or three times per day. Several drops of the oil can be added to a bath or diluted in vegetable oil for topical applications. The concentrated oil is not for internal use, except under medical supervision.
Are there any side effects or interactions?Internal use of the volatile oil can cause severe nausea. Very small amounts should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Excessive intake (several times more than listed above) may cause drowsiness.8 External use in reasonable amounts is safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
In case reports, three young boys developed breast enlargement (gynecomastia) after repeated topical application of products that contained lavender oil and tea tree oil. The problem resolved after they stopped using the oils. While a cause–effect relationship was not conclusively proven, it was suggested by the fact that these oils have been found to have estrogen-like effects in test tube studies.9
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with lavender.
Source: www.cncahealth.com

american ginseng for sports & fitness

Botanical name
Panax quinquefoliusWhy do athletes use it?*Some athletes say that American ginseng
helps reduce fatigue.What do the advocates say?*There is little research on the effect of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) on exercise. Theoretically, American ginseng increases cortisol (a steroid hormone found naturally in the body) output, which suggests that it should be able to increase athletic performance; however, there is no human research to show this to be the case.
Historically, it has been used to help people who are fatigued feel less lethargic. The energizing effects of American ginseng only last while it is in your system. If you are consistently feeling tired, it’s best to pinpoint the reason for your fatigue.
How much is usually taken by athletes?An extract of American ginseng was found ineffective at improving endurance exercise performance in untrained people after one week’s supplementation in a double-blind study.1
Standardized extracts of American ginseng, unlike Asian ginseng, are not available. However, dried root powder, 1 to 3 grams per day in capsule or tablet form, can be used.2 Some herbalists also recommend 3 to 5 ml of tincture three times per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions?Occasional cases of insomnia or agitation have been reported with the use of American ginseng. These conditions are more likely, however, when caffeine-containing foods and beverages are also being consumed.3Drug InteractionsCertain medicines interact with American ginseng: Some interactions may increase the need for American ginseng (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate American ginseng should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.Warfarin (-)
Parts used and where grownLike its more familiar cousin Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), the root of American ginseng is used medicinally. The plant grows wild in shady forests of the northern and central United States, as well as in parts of Canada. It is cultivated in the United States, China, and France.
ResourcesSee a list of books, periodicals, and other resources for this and related topics.
*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for American ginseng based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles on American ginseng. For more complete and detailed information, including references and safety information, see American Ginseng as an herbal remedy.Source: www.cncahealth.com

pau d'arco

Common names
Lapacho, Taheebo
Botanical names
Tabebuia avellanedae, Tabebuia impestiginosaParts used and where grownVarious related species of pau d’arco trees grow in rain forests throughout Latin America. The bark is used for medical purposes.Pau d’arco has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns* - Infection
* - Prostatitis
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Native peoples in Central and South America reportedly use pau d’arco bark to treat cancer, lupus, infectious diseases, wounds, and many other health conditions.1 Caribbean folk healers use the leaf of this tree in addition to the bark for the treatment of backache, toothache, sexually transmitted diseases, and as an aphrodisiac.
Active constituentsLapachol and beta-lapachone (known collectively as naphthaquinones) are two primary active compounds in pau d’arco. According to laboratory tests, both have anti-fungal properties as potent as ketoconazole, a common antifungal drug.2 However, amounts of these constituents needed to exert an antifungal effect may be toxic to humans. Although these compounds also have anticancer properties according to test tube studies, the effective amount for this effect may also be toxic.3 4 Therefore, pau d’arco cannot currently be recommended as a treatment for cancer.
How much is usually taken?A traditional recommendation is 2–3 teaspoons (10–15 grams) of the inner bark simmered in a pint (500 ml) of water for fifteen minutes three times per day.5 However, the naphthaquinones believed to give pau d’arco its major effects are very poorly extracted in water, so teas are not usually recommended in modern herbal medicine.6 Capsules or tablets providing 500–600 mg of powdered bark can be taken three times per day. A tincture, 1/8–1/4 teaspoon (0.5–1 ml) three times per day, can also be used.
Are there any side effects or interactions?High amounts (several grams daily over several days) of lapachol can cause uncontrolled bleeding, nausea, and vomiting.7 Use of the whole bark is typically safer than isolated lapachol—side effects have included nausea and gastrointestinal upset.8 Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid use of pau d’arco.
One case report exists of a 28-year-old man who died of liver failure after taking unspecified amounts of pau d’arco, scullcap, and zinc.9 It appears likely that this may have been a case of adulteration of scullcap with germander.10
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with pau d’arco.
Source: www.cncahealth.com

ligustrum

Common name
Privet
Botanical name
Ligustrum lucidumParts used and where grownThis shrub is native to China and eastern Asia and is now grown ornamentally in the United States. The berry of ligustrum is used medicinally.Ligustrum has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns* - Immune function
* - Infection
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Since ancient times, ligustrum berries have been employed as a “yin” tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine.1 Ligustrum was used for a wide range of conditions, including premature aging and ringing in the ears.2
Active constituentsThe major constituent in ligustrum is ligustrin (oleanolic acid). Preliminary studies, mostly conducted in China, suggest that ligustrum stimulates the immune system, decreases inflammation, and protects the liver.3 Ligustrum is often combined with astragalus in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although used for long-term support of the immune system in people with depressed immune function or cancer, more research is needed to demonstrate the optimal length of time to use ligustrum.
How much is usually taken?Powdered, encapsulated berries, 1–3 teaspoons (5–15 grams) per day, are sometimes recommended.4 A similar amount of berries can be made into tea by adding 1/2–1 teaspoon (2–5 grams) of powdered or crushed berries to 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water and steeping for ten to fifteen minutes. Alternatively, 3/4–1 teaspoon (3–5 ml) of tincture three times per day can be taken.
Are there any side effects or interactions?No adverse effects have been reported.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with ligustrum.
Source: www.cncahealth.com