49401

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:51
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Hemidesmus, Indian Sarsaparilla, Iramusu

  • Botanical Name

    Hemidesmus indicus

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    20 to 50mL weekly

In stark contrast to its traditional use (see below), in Western herbal medicine the root of hemidesmus is regarded as immunosuppressive and it is advised that this plant be avoided in acute conditions because it could dampen the immune response. It is indicated in instances where the immune system is overactive and thus it is prescribed for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma where it is said to work well with low dose echinacea. This Western understanding of hemidesmus appears to be based on a 1986 study in sheep red blood cells where an ethanol extract of hemidesmus was found to suppress cell mediated and humoral components of the immune system. However it should be noted that animal studies cannot be extrapolated to human use and human clinical trials are needed. In her 2020 book, Advanced Clinical Medicine, experienced naturopathic clinician Leah Hechtman (via naturopathic clinician Angela Hywood who wrote the miscarriage chapter) echoes rural Sri Lankan women’s traditional use suggesting hemidesmus may be of benefit in autoimmune mediated miscarriage cases. According to the references this is based on the 1986 study above.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Hemidesmus and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    The root of hemidesmus is traditionally used to treat a wide variety of illnesses including rheumatism, asthma, digestive disorders, impotence, urinary tract and skin infections, female hormonal disturbance related disorders and for relieving symptoms of menopausal conditions. In Sri Lanka hemidesmus is a popular, refreshing, fragrant tea which helps with bad breathe but is commonly used as a healthy drink among people without health conditions. It is used for cooling, blood cleansing, detoxing (diaphoretic and diuretic) and to promote relaxation before bed. Women in rural Sri Lanka use hemidesmus root to reduce the possibility of a miscarriage and to promote a healthy pregnancy, and it’s used in arthritis which is very common due to all the hard work in the rice fields. In Ayurveda it is advised to seek medical help before consuming hemidesmus when one gets ill. This is because it may have a tendency to increase the amount of phlegm in the system as it is a coolant. The whole plant is used topically in hair products to promote hair growth and for acne, wounds and rashes. 

  • Actions

    Anti-inflammatory, alterative, antioxidant, astringent, immunosuppressant, tonic, demulcent, diuretic, diaphoretic

  • Indications

    •    Inflammatory joint diseases, such as arthritis
    •    Autoimmune diseases
    •    Chronic skin diseases, such as atopic eczema, psoriasis, ulcers
    •    Prevention of chemical toxicity and liver damage
    •    Diarrhoea and digestive disorders

  • Energetics

    Cold

  • Use in Pregnancy

    No adverse effects documented

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Although safe and generally considered non-toxic, due to its potential for immune suppression, the herb should be discontinued in states of active infection.

  • Drug Interactions

    Research has shown possible synergistic effects with antibiotics and hemidesmus may offer otoprotective effects (protection against ear damage by toxins) against gentamicin induced cochlear hair damage and prevent subsequent hearing loss/vestibular damage.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free.

  • Substitutes

    Sarsaparilla

48201

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:48
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Nettle Root

  • Botanical Name

    Urtica dioica

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    30 to 40mL weekly

Nettle root has long been used by herbalists to support prostate health and has been studied for its role in managing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Nettle Root and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    One of America's foremost authorities on herbal medicine, Susun Weed, uses nettle root as a hair and scalp tonic and an immune and lymphatic strengthener. For immune system stress, such as constant exposure to chemicals, Weed uses five to 30 drops up to three times a day “along with other Wise Woman wiles.” She says “those with thinning hair, dandruff, scalp infections and hair loss after chemotherapy and giving birth can try rubbing the scalp every morning and night with nettle root decoction or tincture”.  

  • Actions

    Anti-inflammatory, antiprostatic, diuretic

  • Indications

    •    Benign prostatic hyperplasia
    •    Prostate cancer
    •    Prostatitis
    •    Inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract

  • Energetics

    Cooling, drying

  • Use in Pregnancy

    No adverse effects documented.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    No significant adverse effects documented.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with lithium and warfarin. Monitor with antidiabetic and antihypertensive drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Saw Palmetto, Epilobium (Small Leafed Willow), Couchgrass, Crateva

46101

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:44
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Nettle Leaf, Stinging Nettle

  • Botanical Name

    Urtica dioica

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    15 to 80mL weekly

A traditional treatment for inflammation and allergy, nettle leaf is a natural antihistamine. Although the stinging hairs can inject histamines into the skin and cause a reaction it paradoxically helps with allergies as well. Nettle leaf can also help alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis and joint pain. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Nettle Leaf and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    In many European cultures nettle regularly crossed the bridge between being a food and a medicine. The young spring greens offered a mineral rich, pleasant tasting vegetable prized along with other greens such as dandelion as a ‘spring cure’. In Western herbal medicine nettle has traditionally been used as a tonic herb and recommended for complaints associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and urinary tract infections. ‘Urtication’ or flogging with nettles was a traditional remedy for chronic rheumatism and general muscle weakness. This has lead to modern research into the herb’s action in respect to this. Being rich in minerals such as iron, nettle was used for lethargy and depleted states and recovery after childbirth.

  • Actions

    Anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant, astringent, diuretic, hepatoprotective, irritant (topical), nutritive tonic

  • Indications

    •    Inflammatory joint disease - arthritis, osteoarthritis, tendonitis
    •    Neuralgia
    •    Allergic rhinitis, allergies
    •    Atopic eczema
    •    Inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract
    •    Fluid retention
    •    Prevention of chemical toxicity and liver damage
    •    Fatigue and general weakness

  • Energetics

    Cooling, drying

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Use with caution in the first trimester.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    People with known sensitivities or allergies to stinging nettle should use this herb cautiously. Local application of nettle can be irritating, and cause contact urticaria, but preparations taken internally are generally well tolerated.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with lithium and warfarin. Monitor with antidiabetic and antihypertensive drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Dandelion Leaf, Oats Green, Alfalfa, Horsetail, Red Clover, Chickweed, Raspberry Leaf, Perilla, Albizia, Baical Scullcap

45601

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:40
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Graviola, Soursop

  • Botanical Name

    Annona muricata

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    40 to 80mL weekly

Graviola is used against an array of human ailments and diseases especially as adjunctive cancer therapy and for parasitic infections. It is also indicated for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, indigestion, diarrhoea, liver problems, fever, pain and bacterial infections.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Graviola and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    All parts of the graviola tree including the bark, leaves, root, fruit and seeds are used extensively as traditional medicines against an array of human ailments and diseases, especially cancer and parasitic infections. Traditionally the dark leaves are used for headaches, insomnia, cystitis, liver problems, diabetes and hypertension. The cooked leaves, applied topically, fight rheumatism and abscesses.

  • Actions

    Anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiarthritic, insecticidal, antiparasitic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, hypotensive, sedative

  • Indications

    •    Cancer adjuvant therapy
    •    Diabetes
    •    Hypertension
    •    Gastric upset, indigestion, diarrhoea
    •    Jaundice
    •    Fever
    •    Pain
    •    Parasitic and bacterial infections

  • Energetics

    Cooling

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Information on safety and efficacy is lacking.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    There is a concern that graviola might exacerbate Parkinson's symptoms as acetogenin constituents are neurotoxins in vivo. Neurotoxicity studies of annonacin suggest that there is a need for a long exposure to this molecule to observe the effect in rodent models, while pharmacokinetic studies estimated low bioavailability of this compound. Nevertheless patients with established Parkinson disease should avoid consumption of the fruit or decoctions made from the leaves.

  • Drug Interactions

    None known.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free.

  • Substitutes

    Paw Paw, Green Tea

45001

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:37
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Rhodiola

  • Botanical Name

    Rhodiola rosea

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    15 to 30mL weekly

The modern use of rhodiola is as an adaptogenic tonic known as the best herb for ‘21st century stress’ which manifests as fatigue, mental fog, trouble concentrating, low energy and mild depression. Many herbalists use rhodiola to support people with depression and anxiety. It appears to be able to significantly reduce the fatigue and 'burnout' that come from chronic stress and anxiety.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Rhodiola and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Rhodiola has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries throughout Northern Europe and Scandinavia. It has been used traditionally by the Vikings and Siberians to increase physical strength and endurance, resistance to cold and disease and to promote fertility and longevity. Rhodiola was well regarded traditionally for building strength, stamina and vitality in the harsh climates where it thrives.  It was commonly employed for anaemia, fatigue and depression, as well as for infections, infertility, impotence and gastrointestinal ailments.

  • Actions

    Adaptogen, antioxidant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, cardioprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hormonal regulator, central nervous system stimulant

  • Indications

    •    Physical and emotional stress
    •    Depression & anxiety
    •    Endurance & sports
    •    Cardiovascular disease
    •    Fatigue
    •    Poor memory & concentration
    •    Immune insufficiency & cancer
    •    Oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders
    •    Female infertility, sexual dysfunction in men

  • Energetics

    Cool, dry

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Not known to be contraindicated in pregnancy, though safety studies have not been done.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    While the administration of rhodiola may be beneficial in monopolar depression, use is not recommended for bipolar states.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs – used to treat depression), antidepressant (e.g. paroxetine, escitalopram), antidiabetic and immunosuppressant drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Schisandra, Siberian Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Lemon Balm, Lavender, Oats Seed, Rosemary, Korean Ginseng, Reishi, Withania

44401

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:33
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Ivy Leaf, Common Ivy

  • Botanical Name

    Hedera helix

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    30%

  • Dose

    5 to 10mL weekly

The traditional European indications for ivy leaf were primarily for the respiratory tract and to this day it is used to improve lung function, for viral respiratory tract infections and diseases associated with productive cough including the common cold, asthma and acute and chronic bronchitis. Clinical data supports these indications, especially for children. Ivy leaf is additionally indicated for arthritis and gout.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Ivy Leaf and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Traditional healers in Europe had more uses for the plant than contemporary herbalists and ivy leaf was held in high esteem among the ancients. They described ivy leaves as cathartic, anthelmintic and useful for lowering fever and inducing perspiration. Its leaves were used to form wreathes including the wreath of Bacchus. The traditional European indications for ivy leaf primarily were for the respiratory tract. Extracts have been used as antispasmodics and as topical treatments for dermal infections and itching, as well as for weight loss. Ivy leaf has also been traditionally used for arthritis, scrofula (a type of tuberculosis infection), fevers, skin parasites, burns and infections

  • Actions

     Expectorant, antispasmodic, secretolytic, anticatarrhal, bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, diaphoretic, antipyretic

  • Indications

    •    Respiratory disorders, including:
    •    Cough associated with the common cold
    •    Asthma
    •    Acute and chronic bronchitis
    •    Inflammation and pain disorders such as:
    •    Arthritis
    •    Gout
    •    Headache

  • Energetics

    Drying

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Not recommended

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    No serious adverse events with a therapeutic dose of the herbal preparations are reported in literature, or reference sources, with a well-documented history.

  • Drug Interactions

    None known.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    White Horehound, Elecampane, Grindelia, Liquorice, Mullein, Red Clover, Thyme, Ivy Leaf, Hyssop, Aniseed

43201

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:23
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Perilla, Shiso

  • Botanical Name

    Perilla frutescens

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    35%

  • Dose

    30 to 70mL weekly

Used medicinally for centuries by Eastern herbalists for eczema, dermatitis and allergies associated with excessive mucous including hay fever, sinusitis, asthma and bronchitis.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Perilla and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Perilla has been used as a traditional herbal medicine for treating various diseases including depression, anxiety, tumours, cough, allergy, intoxication and some intestinal disorders. Asian herbalists prescribe perilla for cough and lung afflictions, influenza prevention, restless foetus, seafood poisoning and incorrect energy balance and leaves of the plants are used in traditional Japanese herbal medicine, known as Kampo medicine. Perilla is listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and has been used for centuries there in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a medicinal plant for asthma, influenza, cough, chronic bronchitis and vomiting. 

  • Actions

    Antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antidepressant, antidiabetic

  • Indications

    •    Hay fever (allergic rhinitis), asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, allergies associated with excessive mucous.
    •    Eczema, dermatitis

  • Energetics

    Warming, pungent

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Traditionally it has been used for morning sickness and to prevent threatened miscarriage. Limited information is available to determine whether perilla is safe, or unsafe, during pregnancy therefore it should be used under supervision.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antihistamines

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Baical Scullcap, Nettle Leaf, Albizia, Eyebright

42501

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:19
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Paw Paw, Papaya

  • Botanical Name

    Carica papaya

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    30%

  • Dose

    15 to 30mL weekly

Traditionally used for malaria, oral candidiasis, dengue fever, anaemia, as a vermifuge and for diabetes and hypertension. There are increasing anecdotal reports of paw paw’s effects in cancer treatment and prevention, with many successful cases, however the precise cellular mechanism of action of paw paw remains unclear and clinical studies are lacking.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Paw Paw and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    In traditional Ayurvedic literature paw paw leaves were used for asthma, beri beri, fever, abortion, dressing wounds (fresh leaves), antibacterial activity, jaundice, gonorrhoea, urinary complaints and as a vermifuge. Green paw paw leaf tea promotes digestion and aids in the treatment of ailments such as chronic indigestion, obesity, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure and weakening of the heart. 

  • Actions

    Anthelmintic, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, digestive stimulant, antihypertensive, immunomodulator

  • Indications

    •    Viral, bacterial and fungal infections
    •    Wounds and skin infections; acne 
    •    Poor digestion
    •    Possible use in diabetes, hypertension and cancers

  • Energetics

    Pungent, bitter, hot, dry

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. In the absence of sufficient data, the use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended. Consumption of the ripe fruit is safe. The unripe fruit, and an infusion of the leaves, was traditionally used as an abortifacient, or contraceptive, in parts of the Indian continent.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Allergies and reactions to the plant pollen can occur rarely and the latex sap from the fresh plant may cause irritation on sensitive skins.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antiplatelet/anticoagulant (such as warfarin) and antidiabetic drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Green Tea, Graviola, Pomegranate, Pau D’arco, Sweet Wormwood

42301

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:16
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Coleus, Makandi

  • Botanical Name

    Coleus forskohlii

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    40 to 80mL weekly

Coleus is a traditional Ayurvedic herb which can have a pronounced effect on lowering blood pressure and also increases thyroid hormone production and secretion.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Coleus and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Coleus has a long history of use in Asian traditional systems of medicine where it is used as a diuretic, a blood purifier and to decrease blood pressure.

  • Actions

    Hypotensive, antiplatelet, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, cardiotonic, digestive stimulant

  • Indications

    •    Hypertension, prevention of cardiovascular disease, thrombosis, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, angina. 
    •    Asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis
    •    Digestive weakness, non-alcoholic fatty liver
    •    Glaucoma (external and internal), psoriasis
    •    Debilitated thyroid gland to assist weight loss, autoimmune thyroid disease, diabetes, obesity

  • Energetics

    Neutral

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Avoid using. Evidence from animal research suggests that high doses of coleus can inhibit embryo implantation and/or delay foetal development.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Contraindicated in patients with hypotension. High doses may cause gastrointestinal symptoms

  • Drug Interactions

    Avoid with antihypertensive drugs (such as calcium channel blockers used to lower blood pressure), anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs (such as aspirin and warfarin) and nitrates (drugs used to treat and prevent angina (heart pain, chest pain)). Coleus may be used in combination with thyroid medications to increase gland production if the person has not been on the medication long-term

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Arjuna, Hawthorn, Garlic, Bilberry, Green Tea, Pomegranate, Ginkgo, Withania, Bladderwrack

42201

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 15:12
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Angelica

  • Botanical Name

    Angelica archangelica

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    10 to 40mL weekly

During the 17th century angelica became a popular treatment for colds and other respiratory ailments and is still useful for coughs, bronchitis and chest pain, especially when they are accompanied by fever, colds or influenza. As a digestive agent it stimulates the appetite and may be used in anorexia nervosa and flatulent dyspepsia. It can also be used for other nervous disorders such as anxiety. It has been shown to help ease rheumatic inflammation and peripheral vascular disease.Not to be confused with Chinese angelica, or dong quai (Angelica polymorpha), a herb long considered for gynaecological complaints.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Angelica and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    During the 17th century angelica became a popular treatment for colds and other respiratory ailments and is still useful for coughs, bronchitis and chest pain, especially when they are accompanied by fever, colds or influenza.

  • Actions

    Anticatarrhal, antispasmodic (respiratory tract), stimulating expectorant, diaphoretic, digestive tonic, carminative, anxiolytic, circulatory stimulant, vasodilator, urinary antiseptic  

  • Indications

    •    Cough, bronchitis especially when accompanied by fever, cold or influenza.
    •    Digestive problems such as intestinal overactivity, flatulent dyspepsia, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, peptic ulcers, colic, poor nutritional uptake such as iron depletion, food allergies and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) accompanied by bloating.
    •    Painful cramping associated with menstruation and labour pains, and intestinal infection.
    •    Anxiety.
    •    Rheumatic inflammation.
    •    Poor circulation, mildly elevated blood pressure, peripheral vascular disease. 
    •    Cystitis.
    •    Debility, convalescence, fatigue.

  • Energetics

    Bitter, sweet, pungent, hot, dry.

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Not recommended

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Caution should be taken by those foraging angelica as misidentification can be fatal. Angelica is similar to the very poisonous water hemlock (Cicuta virosa) and poison hemlock (Conium maculatum).
    Diabetics should exercise caution when consuming angelica as it can raise blood sugar levels (as measured by urine analysis).
    Angelica contains furanocoumarins which are known to possess photosensitising properties. This photosensitivity can be transferred to humans if large amounts of angelica are consumed and the patient has prolonged exposure to bright sunlight, or in some cases on skin contact with the fresh sap of the plant. Therefore patients who take angelica orally, or apply it topically, should be advised of this potential side effect.

  • Drug Interactions

    Some authorities suggest that because of the coumarin constituents there is a theoretical potential for angelica to interfere with anticoagulant therapy (such as warfarin).

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Hyssop, Aniseed

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