Herbal Therapies (herbs & uses) Flashcards
1
Q
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
A
- minor burns, sunburns
- insect bites
- powerful laxative
fresh most effective
2
Q
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
A
- relief of digestive & GI upset
- potential sedative effects
popular as tea
3
Q
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia)
A
- immune enhancer (increase leukocyte, spleen cells, activate granulocytes)
- respiratory infections, UTI (leaf preparation)
AVOID: autoimmune diseases, abnormal T-cell function
popular oral, topical
4
Q
Feverfew (Tanacetum/Chrysanthemum parthenium)
A
- inhibit platelet aggregation
- serotonin antagonist
- migraine relief + accompanying n/v
MAY RESULT IN ulcerations & irritations from chewing
5
Q
Garlic (Allium sativum)
A
- lower cholesterol, triglyceride levels
- decrease BP, clotting
- antibiotic activity (internal/external)
- treat heavy metal poisoning
6
Q
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
A
- boosts immune system
- headache
- GI upset
- motion sickness
- relief from nausea validated by modern research
- osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
7
Q
Gingko (Gingko biloba)
A
CNS effects (crosses BBB):
- cerebral artery dilation, increase O2 & glucose uptake
- assists during hypoxia (TIA)
- some evidence of improved cognition
one of the oldest plant species, most commonly prescribed herbal remedy worldwide
8
Q
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
A
- short term stress relief
- support immune system
- boost energy
- digestive support
9
Q
Kava (Piper methysticum)
A
- promotes sleep
- muscle relaxation
- antiepileptic, antidepressant, antipsychotic
- promote wound healing
2002 FDA consumer advisory re: potential liver damage
10
Q
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
A
- stimulate regeneration of liver cells
- prevent damage: hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver
11
Q
St. John’s Wart (Hypericum perforatum)
A
- mild depression ONLY (NOT moderate-severe!!!!!) “herbal Prozac”
- anxiety
- enuresis (+yarrow)
12
Q
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
A
- relieves BPH + urinary conditions (double-blind studies!)
- expectorant
