The ancient ruby red pomegranate has a deep association with the cultures of the Mediterranean region and Middle East where it is savoured as a delicacy and is an important dietary component, revered in symbolism and greatly appreciated for its medicinal properties. It has diverse cultural and religious significance and has been the subject of many historical and literary works. One of the best modern descriptions of pomegranate must be from Jill Dupleix, the Australian food writer, restaurant critic and cookbook author. In her monthly newsletter she says: “...it’s like adding sparkles to your food…Think of this gorgeous crimson fruit as a disco ball of goodness, glittering with antioxidants. For me, pomegranate triggers a rush to the head, with dancing visions of translucent jewels, exotic beauty and ancient cultures.” 

As Dupleix alluded to, pomegranate is a potent antioxidant. Pomegranate fruit peel is particularly rich in polyphenolic phytochemicals, including punicalagin, which has antioxidant capacity and is unrivalled and unique to pomegranate. It is most abundant in the fruit peel as opposed to the juicy seeds (arils) found within the fruit. The synergistic action of the pomegranate constituents appears to be superior to that of single constituents. In addition to being an antioxidant, pomegranate fruit peel also possesses anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic, antimicrobial, gastroprotective and anticarcinogenic actions.

The explosion of interest in the numerous therapeutic properties of pomegranate over the last decade has led to much research. A 2021 systematic review, assessing 23 articles about pomegranate and osteoarthritis in human (five studies), animal and in vitro models, found that pomegranate improved clinical symptoms as well as inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in osteoarthritis patients.

References

Dupleix J. 10 THINGS TO DO WITH A POMEGRANATE. Substack c2022. (updated 2 June 2022; accessed 21 July 2022). Available from https://jilldupleix.substack.com/p/10-things-to-do-with-a-pomegranate

Stover E, Mercure EW. The Pomegranate: A New Look at the Fruit of Paradise. HortScience. 2007;42:5: 1088.

HEC pomegranate monograph

Malek Mahdavi A, Javadivala Z. Systematic review of the effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) on osteoarthritis. Health Promot Perspect. 2021 Dec 19;11(4):411-425. doi: 10.34172/hpp.2021.51. PMID: 35079584; PMCID: PMC8767078.

Versatile yarrow has many gifts and it is used for a wide range of issues, including acute injuries as well as chronic health challenges. It is one of the heroes of the hedgerows, like its fellow weeds dandelion, nettle and plantain, making it a forager’s favourite. Yarrow’s vulnerary properties mean it is widely regarded as one of the best wound care plants available. Not only can it arrest bleeding but its antimicrobial effect can assist in preventing the formation of abscesses. As a urinary tract antiseptic it is indicated in infections such as cystitis.

Yarrow may be used as the central ingredient in any fever management program including respiratory infections. It is a diaphoretic (works best when taken hot as an infusion or decoction) that can open up the peripheral circulation, helping to reduce unpleasant symptoms and keeping the body temperature from rising too high. The recently published herbal medicine textbook, Functional Herbal Therapy (2021), says diaphoretics promote sweating and “help facilitate a fever as a ‘slow burn’ (usually in the range of…37.8-38.9°C), ensuring that this important physiological response is supported but kept at a level that is comfortable, restorative, and not harmful to the person.” Yarrow’s effect on peripheral circulation also makes it useful for haemorrhoids and varicose veins, as well as for lowering moderately high blood pressure. 

Traditional Native Americans used yarrow as a digestive bitter that stimulates digestive function and has the ability to relieve gas and bloating. It also has a strong tradition in gynaecological conditions, particularly painful and heavy menstrual bleeding, where it relieves inflammation and congestion in the uterus without excessive spasm. 

References

Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 2003. p. 523

de la Forêt R. Yarrow with Guido Masé. Podcast Season 4. Episode 9. Herbs with Rosalee (updated 15 Jun 2022; accessed Jun 15 2022). Available from https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/podcast45.html

Mills S. The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Penguin:London. 1991. p.401-2

Bone K. Functional Herbal Therapy. Aeon Books:London. 2021. p.342

Mills S. The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Penguin:London. 1991. p.401-2q

The invasive and pervasive dandelion is often thought of as a pesky weed that can take over even the most immaculately manicured lawn. The irony is that dandelions are one of the best medicines to help the body clear out toxins and pollutants, including chemical herbicides and fungicides that many lawns are laden with to destroy it. This gives credence to a herbalists’ saying: “the cure grows near the cause.”

The highly nutritious dandelion plant is loaded with vitamins, minerals and fibre and all parts can be used medicinally, including the flower, leaves and roots. Dandelion leaf is one of the most powerful, yet gentle, diuretics making it useful for oedema, hypertension and water retention from any cause. It acts as a simple and safe diuretic stimulating and enhancing kidney function. Pharmaceutical diuretics can negatively affect blood potassium levels however dandelion leaf is a source of potassium so it is nutritive, rather than depleting, because it balances the sodium-potassium exchange that happens in the kidneys. In The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine author, Simon Mills, explains: “…in work on the leaves researchers have found a pronounced diuretic effect, improved by the fact that the potassium content is so high (3 times that usual for plant tissues) that the normal potassium loss of diuresis is more than replaced, leading to a net increase in potassium levels after the use of dandelion for diuresis.” 

Dandelion leaf is also used to stimulate the appetite and assist digestion. It is known as a bitter and salty spring tonic and is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. It also contains vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins. Along with potassium, dandelion leaf also provides a substantial amount of several minerals including iron, calcium and magnesium. While more research is needed in humans to confirm some emerging health benefits, preclinical results suggest dandelion leaf may improve bone health and reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Other studies suggest it may boost immune health through its antimicrobial, antiviral and antibacterial properties which may support the body’s ability to fight infection. Dandelion leaf may also be a useful skin care treatment. Animal and test-tube studies suggest that it may protect against skin damage caused by sun damage, aging and acne.

References

Maier K. Energetic Herbalism. Vermont: Chelsea Green Publishing. 2021. p. 243

Maier K. Energetic Herbalism. Vermont: Chelsea Green Publishing. 2021. p. 243-46

Mills S. The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Penguin:London. 1991. p.432

Link R, Hill A. 13 Emerging Health Benefits of Dandelion. Healthline Media. (updated Jan 4 2022; accessed Jun 14 2022).  Available from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_17

The roots of barberry are traditionally used for digestive complaints, liver and gallbladder ailments and disorders of the kidney and urinary tracts. Despite the fact that it is a bitter herb it is said to have a warming energy in Ayurveda (compared to other more cooling bitters) so it is useful for people who are deficient, such as in dry eczema and constipation.

Barberry has alterative and strong antimicrobial properties so it is useful for topical and internal infections – the ancient Egyptians used it with fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare) to prevent plagues. Herbalist Richard Whelan says “a person who has not been able to pull themselves out of a chronic illness because they are encumbered, congested, bogged down by tiredness and toxicity, can be the ones who benefit the most from such a medicine as barberry, because it is a superb liver tonic.” He combines it with dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) and burdock (Arctium lappa) for deep blood cleansing programs and with liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) to cleanse and tone the bowel. For a strong liver program he uses it with celandine (Chelidonium majus) and a small amount of poke root (Phytolacca americana). Combining it with red clover (Trifolium pratense) and clivers (Galium aparine) is a good lymphatic system cleanser for problems such as swollen glands, eruptive skin or sore joints.

Barberry is an excellent substitute for golden seal (Hydrastis canadensis). Like golden seal barberry has significant amounts of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine, which gives it a similar action, although it is lacking hydrastine. Golden seal has become overharvested, and somewhat endangered, and when it is available its price from sustainable sources steadily increases. These environmental issues, and the fact that it is expensive, mean that responsible practitioners have been searching for substitutes.

References

Van Wyk B, Wink M. Medicinal Plants of the World. Pretoria: Briza Publications; 2004. p. 66

Barberry. Plant Walks by Todd Caldecott Learning Herbs.com c2022. (updated 11 January 2016; accessed 3 Jun 2022).  Available from https://herbmentor.learningherbs.com/plantwalks/barberry-plant-walk/

Whelan R. Barberry. Herbs from A-Z. RJ Whelan Ltd c2011. (accessed 3 Jun 2022). Available from https://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/barberry.html

A perennial herb, commonly found in lawns, roadsides, parks and playgrounds, ribwort has a reputation as a highly adaptable, and often overlooked, weed. This ubiquity makes it an important edible and medicinal plant in survival situations. It comes in handy for many children who know it as “nature’s band-aid”, the leaves of which they can bruise or make into a spit poultice to apply to insect bites and small grazes.

Taken internally, ribwort is ideal for coughs and mild bronchitis as it acts as a gentle expectorant while soothing inflamed membranes. It can also alleviate gut inflammation and its astringency makes it helpful in diarrhoea and haemorrhoids.

The researchers in a recent pilot study into the efficacy and safety of ribwort for the common cold remarked that during the COVID-19 pandemic the lack of early therapeutic approaches has caused the infection to infiltrate and the consequent collapse of healthcare structures worldwide. They said ribwort could be used for the early treatment of acute respiratory infections “that could avoid disease progression and solve the current problem.” There is a general maxim among herbalists that remedies lie not far from their causes (“the cure grows near the cause”) so perhaps it is not a coincidence that humble ribwort is an abundant plant, a quiet hero, and can provide an antidote to the discomfort of respiratory mucous membranes that is free for all.

References

Bonetto D. BEHOLD PLANTAIN, for there is more to tell. Big Fag Press. (updated 5 May 2020; accessed 3 Jun 2022). Available from https://www.diegobonetto.com/blog/behold-plantain-for-there-is-more-to-tell

Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 2003. p. 574

Isabel OA, Getino Antonio M, Larrechea Laura O, Gomez Sandra R, Garay Jon Kepa G, Basterretxea Maite V, et al. A pilot study of efficacy and safety of Plantago lanceolata and Primula veris, in the treatment of the common cold. Arch Pharma Pract 2020;11(3):1-7.

The liver is an essential organ that is responsible for several major metabolic and digestive functions of the body. One of its most important functions is to detoxify the body by neutralising and eliminating the extra toxins that people’s bodies are exposed to on a daily basis. An efficient liver detoxification system is essential for health and vitality. Many inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular problems, headaches, chronic fatigue, skin conditions and premature ageing can all be caused and aggravated by a build-up of toxins that the liver is unable to cope with. The main causes of liver disease are environmental pollution, poor diet and virus infection, with drugs, alcohol, sedentary lifestyles and even stress being contributing factors. In the words of the legendary herbalist David Hoffmann: “In the face of the toxic challenge presented by modern life, the green world has help to offer.”

Herbal Liver Support has been professionally formulated to support, nourish and protect the liver. It may also restore it back to health and is beneficial during times of excess consumption of processed foods, caffeine, drug and alcohol intake. Six key liver herbs (globe artichoke, St. Mary’s thistle, dandelion root, schizandra, bupleurum and rosemary) have been chosen, from Western and traditional Chinese herbal medicines, to produce a well-balanced, pleasant tasting herbal blend that covers all aspects of liver health. This is achieved by directly targeting liver regeneration, protecting the hepato-biliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, and stimulating the Phase I and II detoxification pathways.

A fundamental naturopathic philosophy is that when the digestive system is functioning well the whole body can achieve homeostasis and optimal health. Many herbs that treat the liver will also have a beneficial effect on the gall bladder and pancreas, and therefore can help to alleviate symptoms throughout the whole digestive system. By assisting in maintaining optimal liver function, Herbal Liver Support can thus assist in improving overall systemic health.

References

Bradshaw G. The Liver & Detoxification (Part 2). Integrated Nutraceuticals. c2013

Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 2003. p. 175

HEC Liver Support monograph.

HEC Liver Support monograph

Fenugreek belongs to the Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) family, commonly known as the legume, pea or bean family. This explains why the seed pod, which contains ten to twenty hard, light-brown seeds, looks like a miniature broad bean. These seeds smell of green peas and have a sharp sweetness like maple syrup explaining why an extract of fenugreek seeds is used to make imitation maple syrup. Fenugreek is often known for its culinary uses as a spice, adding a savory depth to curries and rice dishes, but it also has powerful uses in herbalism.

Fenugreek has been much used in convalescence by some cultures and has a rich history as both a food and a medicine to nourish a weakened system back to health. It is a warming and stimulating herb for people who are depleted and need to build up their blood and strength. It can stimulate the digestive system and fortify a person who has become weakened by illness or loss of physical condition.

Promoting the production and flow of milk is the first use many Western herbalists think of with respect to fenugreek. It is widely used to promote lactation and is traditionally used as a galactagogue in Ayurveda. The most well researched area of therapeutic use includes effects on blood glucose, glucose tolerance and insulin levels. Fenugreek has been shown to decrease insulin resistance and increase insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing serum triglycerides in mild type 2 diabetic patients.

---------------------------------------

Hemphill I. Some Spiced Holiday Reading. Herbie’s Spices c2022. (updated Dec 12 2017; accessed 18 May 2022). Available from https://www.herbies.com.au/general/some-spicy-holiday-reading/

Whelan R. Fenugreek. Herbs from A-Z. RJ Whelan Ltd c2011. (accessed 18 May 2022). Available from https://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/fenugreek.html

Trickey R. Women, Hormones and the Menstrual Cycle. 3rd edn. Fairfield: Melbourne Holistic Health Group. 2011. p. 351

Fenugreek. The Herbarium, Herbal Academy. (accessed 18 May 2022). Available from https://herbarium.theherbalacademy.com/monographs/#/monograph/5128

Arjuna is the cardiovascular panacea of Ayurveda and its bark has been prized as a treatment for heart disorders for more than 3000 years. It is indicated for the treatment of the leading single cause of disease burden and death in Australia, coronary heart (or artery) disease (also known as ischemic heart disease), which is heart problems caused by narrowed arteries usually due to the build-up of plaque. There are two major clinical forms: heart attack (also known as acute myocardial infarction) and angina. Arjuna may also prove to be useful for the treatment of any associated disorders of cardiac rhythm and it appears to favourably modify some of the known coronary risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and possibly obesity.

Arjuna rivals hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) which is the best-known herb for the heart in Western herbal medicine. Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, one of North America's foremost experts on holistic medicine and Ayurveda, says they are essentially interchangeable. “The only difference that I would really say between hawthorn and arjuna is that arjuna really excels at regulating heart rhythms. Especially for tachycardia, which is rapid uncontrolled heartbeat, arjuna is really a champion. I think it’s a little better than hawthorn in that case. Otherwise, they’re more or less the same. Indications are the same. The dose is the same. They’re both sour and astringent…because of the same polyphenols that are in there,” he says.

Statins are a group of medicines that can help lower the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" and statins reduce the production of it inside the liver. One study found that arjuna bark powder, along with statins for three months, resulted in a 15% decrease in total cholesterol, 11% in triglycerides and 16% in LDL-cholesterol which suggests that arjuna may work synergistically with statins in high cholesterol. Information about interactions with long-term statin therapy is lacking.

References

Coronary Heart Disease. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare c2022. (updated 23 Jul 2020; accessed 17 May 2022). Available from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/coronary-heart-disease

Bone K. Cardiovascular Herbs from China and India. Professional Review Dec 1991;25 Mediherb c1991.

Khalsa KP. Relax, Part 4: Cardiovascular System and Inflammation. LearningHerbs.com c2019 (accessed 17 May 2022). Available from https://herbmentormedia.s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Courses/Relax/Relax-KP-Khalsa-Part-4-Transcript.pdf

Priya N, Mathur KC, Sharma A, Agrawal RP, Agarwal V, Acharya J. Effect of Terminalia arjuna on total platelet count and lipid profile in patients of coronary artery disease. Adv Hum Biol2019;9:98-101 (PDF) Effect of Terminalia Arjuna on total platelet count and lipid profile in patients of coronary artery disease. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330150544_Effect_of_Terminalia_Arjuna_on_total_platelet_count_and_lipid_profile_in_patients_of_coronary_artery_disease [accessed May 17 2022].

Like St. Mary’s thistle (Silybum marianum), globe artichoke is a variety of thistle belonging to the daisy family. It is cultivated for its immature flower, which is a culinary delight and, when left unharvested, rewards with a showy purple flower head. The artichoke leaf is valued medicinally and is commonly used in bitter digestive blends as well as for supporting healthy cholesterol levels. It is an effective symptomatic treatment for non-ulcer dyspepsia and shows promise for irritable bowel syndrome. [i]

A recent meta-analysis suggests globe artichoke could support weight management. Obesity is a global health problem that is a risk factor for several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disorders, type 2 diabetes, liver disease and cancer. It also increases the risk of both COVID-19-related hospitalisations and death. Making sustainable lifestyle changes, such as decreasing calorie intake and increasing physical exercise, to combat this disorder can be difficult and many people use other various methods for weight loss, including dietary supplementation. [ii]

The systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 randomised controlled clinical trials investigated the effects of globe artichoke supplementation on body weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. The globe artichoke dose ranged from 100mg per day to 19.45g per day, and the supplementation period ranged from eight to 12 weeks. Globe artichoke supplementation showed a significant effect on waist circumference. In participants with hypertension the analysis revealed a significant reduction in weight, suggesting that the addition of globe artichoke could be recommended to this clinical population for weight management.[iii][iv]

---------------------------------------

[i] Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and Natural Supplements. 3rd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2010. p. 470

[ii] Hemati N, Venkatakrishnan K, Yarmohammadi S, et al. The effects of supplementation with Cynara scolymus L. on anthropometric indices: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of clinical trials. Complement Ther Med. January 2021;56:102612. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102612.

[iii] Hemati N, Venkatakrishnan K, Yarmohammadi S, et al. The effects of supplementation with Cynara scolymus L. on anthropometric indices: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of clinical trials. Complement Ther Med. January 2021;56:102612. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102612.

[iv] Sawadogo W, Tsegaye M, Gizaw A, Adera T. Overweight and obesity as risk factors for COVID-19-associated hospitalisations and death: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Nutr Prev Health. 2022 Jan 19;5(1):10-18. doi: 10.1136/bmjnph-2021-000375. PMID: 35814718; PMCID: PMC8783972.