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- ARTICLESThe herbs listed below are available in our online catalog. The brands we carryare Nature's Answer, Dr. Christophers, Gaia Herbs, Nature's Way, Kroegers andCrystal Garden Herbs
The purpose of the information below is to educate you in your choices. Thedosage mentioned is based on 1:1 liquid herb strength for those listed unless otherwisenoted.
General Dosage
Take 30-40 drops of extract in a small amount of warm water 3-4 times daily betweenmeals.
Chinese Astragalus Root
Astragalus membranaceus
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Best known for its deep immune activity. Notably Astragalus enhances macrophage andleukocyte activity. Tones the spleen and is useful in spleen deficiency problems such aspoor appetite, fatigue, and diarrhea. Also useful for prolapse syndromes such as prolapseduterus, stomach, or anus, and also for uterine bleeding. Is an effective diuretic andpromotes the discharge of pus.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Black Cohosh is a powerful relaxant which is very useful in the treatment ofrheumatic pains, osteo-arthritis, muscular and neurological pain, and rheumatoidneuralgia. It also exerts a strong influence on the female reproductive system,normalizing menstruation and relieving menstrual cramps.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. German Commission E recommendslimiting use to 6 months.
Our note: see the pregnancy and birth section for how to use when labor isapproaching along with blue cohosh and red raspberry leaf.
Black Walnut Fresh Green Hulls
Juglans nigra
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A powerful remedy for expelling worms and also an antifungal, useful in treatingcandida, pin worms, ringworm, and tapeworms. Also a mild laxative, and useful fortreatment of skin problems such as eczema and herpes.
Contraindications/Cautions
Do not use for more than 21 days at a time. Not to be used during pregnancy orlactation.
Bladderwrack Fronds
Fucus vesiculosis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Bladderwrack regulates thyroid function and is effective in treating under-activethyroid glands, goiter, and all associated symptoms. Also helps relieve rheumatism andrheumatoid arthritis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Contraindicated in over activethyroid conditions.
Blue Cohosh Root
Caulophyllum thalictroides
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An antispasmodic, Blue Cohosh is an excellent, safe herb for toning the uterus andeasing dysmenorrhea. Its antispasmodic properties are also useful in treating colic,asthma, or nervous coughs.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Cascara sagrada
Rhamnus purshiana
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Used as a laxative in treating chronic constipation, where it promotes peristalsisand tones relaxed digestive system muscles.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Do not use this product if you haveabdominal pain or diarrhea. Discontinue use in the event of diarrhea or watery stools. Donot exceed recommended dose. Not for long-term use.
Cat's Claw or Una de Gato Vine
Uncaria tomentosa
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Rainforest botanical. A highly effective immune system stimulant that fights viralinfection and diminishes chemical sensitivity. Una de Gato has been used totreatarthritis, bursitis, intestinal disorders,allergies, and to ease the side effects ofchemotherapy.
Contraindications/Cautions
Do not use during pregnancy or lactation.
Cayenne Pepper
Capsicum annum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A circulatory stimulant which accelerates oxygenation of the cells and brings bloodflow to the capillaries. Cayenne also reduces pain topically through its inhibition ofSubstance P, a neurotransmitter which is thought to be the principle mediator in pain.Cayenne first stimulates then blocks pain fibers, which in turn depletes the Substance P.Indications include poor circulation, painful neuropathies, headache,osteo and rheumatoidarthritis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Internally, large doses may causegastrointestinal irritation. Externally, avoid use near eyes or on injured skin.
Chapparal Leaf
Larrea tridentata
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Chaparral sedates inflammation of the respiratory and intestinal tracts andrelieves the pain of neuritis, sciatica, and inflammations, and has antibacterialproperties.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Not for use in large amounts bypersons with preexisting kidney disease and liver conditions, such as hepatitis andcirrhosis. Seek advice from a health care practitioner before use if you have any historyof liver disease. Discontinue use if nausea, fever, fatigue, or jaundice occur
(e.g., dark urine or yellow discoloration of the eyes).
Chaste Tree Berry
Vitex agnus-castus
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Normalizes and stimulates pituitary gland functions, particularly those of thefemale sex hormones; effective on dysmenorrhea, premenstrual stress, and especiallymenopausal changes.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. May counteract the effectiveness ofbirth control pills.
Cleavers Herb
Gallium aparine
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent lymphatic system tonic with alliterative and diuretic properties,Cleavers works safely on a variety of lymphatic problems such as swollen glands(especially in tonsillitis and adenoid ailments). Useful in treating ulcers and tumors,since it aids lymphatic drainage and therefore detoxifies the tissue. Cleavers also iseffective on painful urinary conditions such as cystitis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Coleus Root
Coleus forskholii
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Coleus has the unique ability to activate the enzyme adenylate cyclase whichincreases cellular levels of CAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate). This in turn activatesnumerous enzymes, making Coleus a widely applicable herb. Indications include asthma,congestive heart failure, glaucoma, hypertension, and allergies.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Contraindicated in low blood pressureand gastric ulcers.
Cramp Bark
Viburnum opulus
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent antispasmodic, Cramp Bark works to relax muscular cramps in generaland works on the uterine and ovarian muscles in particular. By relaxing uterine muscles itrelieves menstrual cramps. Its astringent properties are effective in treating excessiveblood loss during menstruation and menopausal bleeding
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Dandelion Root
Taraxacum officinalis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Dandelion is an excellent, safe diuretic and liver tonic. Dandelion is a valuablediuretic because it is rich in potassium, a vital mineral often lost when the kidneys arestimulated by drugs. It is useful in treating water retention due to heart problems,inflammation and congestion of the liver and gallbladder, and congestive jaundice.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Contraindicated in blockage of thebile ducts, acute gallbladder inflammation, intestinal blockage, and kidney failure.
Dong Quai Root (Chinese) or Dang Gui
Angelica sinensis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Tones the blood and invigorates the circulatory system, acting on conditions suchas palpitations, carbuncles or pain from congealed blood, abdominal pain, and traumaticinjuries. Also helps with irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, and dysmenorrhea.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
False Unicorn Root aka Helonias Root
Chamoelirium luteum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent tonic and strengthener of the reproductive systems for both sexes,although used primarily for women. Normalizes functions, tones, and balances. Useful indelayed or absent menstruation and in ovarian pain.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Fennel Seed
Foeniculum vulgare
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Excellent in treating stomach and intestinal problems such as flatulence, colic,and lack of appetite. Calms bronchitis and coughs.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Fo-Ti (Chinese) or He Shou Wu
Polygonum multiflorum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Fo-Ti is astringent and helps treat conditions such as nocturnal emission,spermatorrhea, or leukorrhea. It also tones the liver and kidneys as well as the blood.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Garlic
Allium sativum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Garlic is one of the most effective anti-microbial herbs, with both antibacterialand anti-viral properties. It acts on respiratory infections such as chronic bronchitis,respiratory catarrh, recurrent colds and flu, and is a powerful preventative for theseconditions and for digestive infections as well. Garlic also lowers blood pressure, bloodcholesterol levels, and acts as a tonic on the cardiovascular system.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. This caution applies to therapeuticdoses rather than consumption as a spice.
Ginger Root, Fresh OR Dried
Zingiber officinale
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Ginger acts as a peripheral circulation stimulant and is helpful in treating badcirculation, chilblains, and cramps. It is also used as a remedy for digestive problems,sore throats, and as a promoter of perspiration in treating fever.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Persons with gallstones shouldconsult a practitioner prior to therapeutic use.
Gotu Kola Leaf and Root
Centella asiatica
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Gotu Kola is a stimulant to the central nervous system and is used to improvememory and treat fatigue.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Helonias Root aka False Unicorn Root
Chamoelirium luteum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent tonic and strengthener of the reproductive systems for both sexes,although used primarily for women. Normalizes functions, tones, and balances. Useful indelayed or absent menstruation and in ovarian pain.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Horse Chestnut
Escudos hippocastanum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
The actions of horse chestnut are astringent and anti-inflammatory, influencinglargely the vessels of the circulatory system. It is a useful remedy for vascular fullnessassociated with hemorrhoids, varicose veins, rectal engorgement, phlebitis, and legulcers.
Juniper Berry
Juniperus communis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent diuretic with anti-microbial properties, useful in conditions suchas cystitis. Its bitter action helps digestion and eases flatulent colic.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation or kidney disease. Not for useexceeding four to six weeks in succession.
Licorice Root
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Acts on the endocrine system and the liver as an antihepatotoxic effective intreating hepatitis and cirrhosis. Licorice is also an expectorant and anti-inflammatory,useful in cough and bronchitis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used in pregnancy and lactation. Not for prolonged use or in highdoses except under supervision of a qualified health practitioner. Contraindicated fordiabetics, in hypertension, liver disorders, severe kidney insufficiency, and hypokalemia.Prolonged therapeutic use may offset electrolyte balance, resulting in hypertension andother aldosterone imbalances.
Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Lily of the Valley is a cardiac tonic which increases coronary circulation andmyocardial action, useful in treating conditions such as congestive heart failure, cardiacasthma, and mitral insufficiency. Appropriate for all cardiac disturbances, especiallyconditions of incipient decompensation. CAUTION: For professional use only.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Use only with professionalguidance.
Lobelia Herb
Lobelia inflata
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Lobelia is a valuable systemic relaxant, with a depressant action on the centraland autonomic nervous systems. It is primarily used in bronchitic asthma and bronchitis. Where it acts as a respiratory relaxant while at the same time stimulates catarrhalsecretion and expectoration. CAUTION: For professional use only.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not for use during pregnancy and lactation. Do not use for a prolonged period oftime. Larger doses may cause nausea and vomiting. Do not exceed recommendeddose. Use only with professional guidance
Milk Thistle Seed
Silybum marianum
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Excellent as a liver tonic and in treating numerous liver and gallbladderconditions such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. May also reverse toxic liver damage andprotect against hepatotoxic agents.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Oregano Leaf
Origanum vulgare
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A common spice with a long folk history of use for colds and flu. It iscarminitive, diaphoretic, expectorant, and anti-spasmodic. The essential oil, which makesup to 1% of the plant, is a potent inhibitor of fungus and yeast.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Pau d'Arco Bark or La Pacho
Tabebuia impetignosa
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A South American tree bark which has strong anti-fungal and anti-yeastproperties, used as a blood alliterative, prophylactically, and in chronic healthimbalances.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Propolis
Bee Harvested Resin
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A strong anti-microbial, antibacterial, and anti-viral agent used topically andin the treatment of wounds, injuries, and infections. Very useful as a first-aid remedy.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Red Clover Blossoms
Trifolium pratense
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A safe and effective treatment for childhood eczema. Also useful for chronicskin problems in children and adults such as psoriasis. An expectorant and antispasmodic, Red Clover works especially well on whooping cough and also on coughs andbronchitis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Red Raspberry Leaf
Rubus ideaus
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Valuable as a strengthener and toner of the womb during pregnancy, and helpfulin restraining hemorrhage during labor and assisting contractions. Its astringent actionis also helpful in reducing fluids for a variety of other conditions including diarrhea,leukorrhea, and mouth problems such as bleeding gums and inflammations.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Sarsaparilla Root
Smilax ornate
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Gradually restores the proper functioning of the body, correcting a wide rangeof systemic problems. These include scaling skin conditions such as psoriasis, andrheumatic conditions. Especially useful for rheumatoid arthritis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Saw Palmetto Berry
Serenoa repens
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Acts as a tonic and strengthener of the male reproductive system, and is helpfulin treating enlarged prostate glands. Also useful in genitourinary tract infections.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Schizandra Berry (Chinese)
Schizandra chinensis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Strengthens and quickens reflexes, stimulates respiration, and is useful inpromoting labor. Also reduces perspiration, stops coughing and diarrhea.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Slippery Elm Bark
Ulmus rubra
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Slippery Elm is useful in treating digestive conditions with inflamed mucousmembrane linings such as gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcer, enteritis, and colitis,where it has a soothing, demulcent action.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Uva Ursi Leaf
Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
Soothes, tones, and strengthens the membranes of the urinary system and ishelpful in gravel or ulceration of the kidney or bladder, pyelitis, and cystitis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Contraindicated in kidneydisorders, irritated digestive conditions, and with acidic urine or in conjunction withremedies which produce acidic urine (such as cranberry), as the arbutin in uva ursi iscounteracted by acidic environments. Not for prolonged use without consulting apractitioner.
Valerian Root
Valeriana officinalis
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
An excellent nervine for treating anxiety and tension, and a gentle, safe sleepaid. Valerian’s antispasmodic action makes it a strong muscle relaxing used inmuscle cramping, uterine cramps, and intestinal colic.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Wild Yam Root
Dioscorea villosa
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A valuable antispasmodic used to relieve intestinal colic, diverticulitis,dysmenorrhea, and ovarian and uterine pains. Excellent as an anti-inflammatory in treatingrheumatoid arthritis.
Contraindications/Cautions
Not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. Large doses may produce vomiting.Do not exceed dosage limitations.
Yellow Dock Root
Rumex crispus
Therapeutic Actions and Indications
A valuable herb for treating chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis. Promotesthe flow of bile and is used for jaundice when caused by congestion, is a blood cleanser,and a remedy for constipation.
Contraindications/Cautions
Caution should be used if history of kidney stones exists (due to oxalates).
Alfalfa
Good for the whole body, helps appetite
Barley Green
Needed to promote & sustain life
Bee Pollen
Good for the aging project & energy
Black Cohosh...
Insect bites stings, estrogen, sinus
Black Walnut
Expelling parasites, natural fluoride
Blessed Thistle
Female problems, brain & memory
Burdock
Called KING of all herbs, blood purifier
Butcher's Broom
Helps to clean out blood vessels
Capsicium
Blood pressure, circulation, strokes, chills
Cascara
Laxative, insomnia, gallbladder
Catnip
Fever, stomach, cramps, gas digestion
Chamomile
Drug withdrawal, Improves appetite, stomach
Chaparral
Decreasing tumors & leukemia, takes out LSD
Charcoal Activated
Takes out chemicals & drugs
Chickweed
Weight loss, fatty tumors, water retention
Comfrey Leaf
Kills bacteria, strengthens the body
Cornsilk
Rich in Vitamin K, bedwetting, kidney, bladder
Damiana
Infertility, depression, reproductive organs
Dandelion
Will restore & balance the blood & anemia
Dong Quai
King & Queen of male & female hormones
Echinacea
Natural antibiotic, blood, spider bites
Eyebright
Good for weak eyes, allergies, diabetes
False Unicorn
High in calcium, depression, heart
Feverfew
Helps in eyes, ears, nose, throat, fever, cold
Garlic
Contains allicin, natural antibiotic, cancer
Ginger
Menstrual cramps, cold, fever, congestion
Ginseng
Slows the aging process, cure all
Ginseng, Wild
America
Protection from radiation
Golden Seal
Natural Insulin
Gotu Kola
Increase learning ability, depression
Hawthorn Berries
Heart, relaxes blood vessels
Horsetail
Helps dissolve tumors, kidney stones, eyes
Hydrangea
Great kidney & bladder & liver, digestion
Juniper Berries
Heals urinary passage, diabetes, fungi
Kelp
Hair loss, thyroid, energy, birth defects, tumors
Licorice Root
Hypoglycemia, estrogen, Addison's disease
Lobelia
Sleep aid, oxygenates blood, bronchitis, asthma
Marshmallow
Nerves, bladder, kidney, mucus, lungs, bowels
Mullein
Loosens mucus, respiratory, sinus, pain, asthma
Parsley
Cancer preventative, adrenal glands, kidney
Parthenium
Old Indian herb, good on all body parts
Passion Flower
Water retention, mild sedative, nerves
Pau D'Arco
Blood purifier, cancer, virus all kinds
Psyllium (seeds)
Will scrub the colon, colitis
Psyllium Hulls
Creates bulk, colon cleanser, digestion
Red Clover
Blood purifier, cancer, leprosy, tumors
Red Raspberry
Female organs, decreases menstrual flow
Rose Hips
Colds, vitamin C complex, infection, stress
Safflowers
Digestion aid, gas, cholesterol, gout, kidney
Sage
High in minerals, circulation, heart, fever, nerves
Sarsaparilla
Balancing hormones, hair growth, gout
Saw Palmetto
Weight gain, reproductive organs, throat
Skullcap
Sleep aid, calming nerves, pain, circulation
Slippery Elm
Ulcers take with lots of water, colon
Spirulina
Weight loss, natural amino acids, B-complex
Uva Ursi
Kidney stones, spleen, digestive stimulant
Valerian Root
Nerves, sleep, use like valium, stress
White Oak Root
Liver normalizes, lungs, fever, tumors
Yarrow
Stimulates appetite, circulation, fever
Yellow Dock
Cancer, blood builder, Lymphatic system
Yucca
Reduces cholesterol, cortisone natural, pain
The information is taken from The Naturopathic Handbook of Herbal Medicine inconjunction with Gaia Herbs. - http://www.gaiaherbs.com