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Herbal Information and Supplements List | S-Z
Saw palmetto has become a hot topic. Saw palmetto has been scientifically proven to relieve many symptoms of benign prostatic enlargement or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), such as nocturnal urination and urinary retention. Numerous studies have shown saw palmetto to be over 90 percent effective in reliving the symptoms of prostate problems. Herbalist often prescribe saw palmetto to men suffering from the prostate condition. Senna Senna is most known as a laxative. It is the primary ingredient in the famous brand Exlax. This herb would of course be used to heal constipation and the stool-softening abilities are good for those suffering from hemorrhoids and other anal pains. Senna should not be used long term; it should only be used for a week or two. It is suggested that senna be combined with a relaxing agent, such as ginger or peppermint, to prevent cramping. Siberian Ginseng Many people think that Siberian ginseng and regular ginseng are the same. True Siberian ginseng is apart of the ginseng family, but it is still an medical herb on its own. Siberian ginseng is one of the most widely used herbs in the world. It is a restoring, health-enhancing herb that will improve overall health by helping the body to better handle stress on a daily basis. It works best over time, you'll need to take it for several months to see optimum results. Siberian ginseng is used to relieve fatigue, stress and stress related disorders, and to aid in immune deficiency. It is also very popular for its performance-booster qualities in workouts and sports. Slippery Elm Slippery Elm has soothing and astringent properties that help heal wounds, boils, burns and helps in reducing pain and inflammation. It is also useful as an applicant on the skin for scrapes and itching. It is used internally to treat ulcers and to sooth sore throats and coughs. Spirulina Spirulina is a popular nutritional supplement and is considered one of natures superfoods. Spirulina is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Spirulina is one of the few plant sources of the B12 vitamin. It has such a full nutrition list, it is often used during fasts and is an excellent supplement for those who do not get enough vegetables in their diet and for vegetarian who do not get enough meat in their diet. St. John's Wort St. Johns Wort has been used to regulate mood and heal wounds and burns for centuries. The herbs ability to act as an antidepressant is well documented. In more recent research, St. John's wort extract has been clinically shown to be just as potent an antidepressant and just as effective as a very popular and commonly prescribed pharmaceutical drug, while having far fewer side effects. St. John's wort is best known as an antidepressant, but this herb has more to offer, such as anxiety and pain relief and wound healing. St. John's Wort is an overall health booster for the entire nervous system. Turmeric If you like Indian food, then you've probably heard of turmeric. Turmeric is a mild stimulant used make curry powders, which is popular in Indian cooking. Curcumin, which comes from Turmeric, has recently been shown to fight certain cancers, Alzheimer's and arthritis. That same curcumin may also help with weight gain. New studies suggest that the curcumin found in turmeric can limit the growth of fatty tissue, therefore decreasing the amount of fat on the body. It is also suggested that turmeric is the secret to the beautiful skin of Indian women. It is recommended to supplement a small amount of turmeric to help give your skin a healthy glow. The amount of turmeric used in cooking is not enough, a turmeric supplement is necessary if you wish it reap the medical benefits of this herb. Uva Ursi Uva ursi or bearberry is a strong herb and is one of natures most powerful astringents. It should not be used on a long-term basis, but makes for a great treatment of occasionally bacterial problems. Like cranberry, uva ursi treats the urinary tract. It is able to fight off many of the pathogens and bacteria commonly found in urinary tract infections. Valerian This is another herbal favorite of mine. If you are living a busy life like the rest of us and find it hard to relax at night and get yourself to sleep, then Valerian may be the natural answer you are looking for. Valerian is one of the most widely recognized herbal cures. It is used to treat insomnia ,nervousness, anxiety, and to help the body relax in the presence of pain. Unlike many pharmaceutical sleeping aids, Valerian is not habit-forming and does not cause that groggy feeling in the morning that many of us are use to. Valerian will help you fall asleep faster and improve your quality of sleep. White Willow Bark-The Natural Aspirin The bark on the white willow tree has natural aspirin-like abilities. White willow bark has been used to fight pain, fevers and inflammation for years, long before the modern over-the-counter medicine. Herbalists use white willow to reduce pains associated with various conditions, such as painful menstruation, arthritis. The bad news is that white willow works slower than aspirin, it can take days to improve the condition. The good news is that it lasts longer than aspirin and has fewer side effects. Wild Cherry Wild cherry or black cherry is a herbal favorite for treating chronic and irritating coughs, particularly dry and unproductive coughs. It is an old fashioned cough remedy that is still effective today. In small doses, it is generally safe for children. Wild cherry is not to be used as a long-term cough suppressant. If you are experience a frequent cough that is not associated with a cold or other minor illness, then wild cherry may not be for you. You could be experiencing another health issues that deserves a more in depth look. Yerba Santa Yerba santa is primarily considered a respiratory herb. It is most effective in stimulating expectorant and ridding the body of mucous (the slimy stuff we cough up during colds and flu). Conditions of bronchitis, coughs, chest colds, and asthma all benefit from yerba santa. Return to Herbal List | Guide
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