|
Gotu Kola
fresh herb
(Centella asiatica) * |
Anti-inflammatory and strengthens connective tissue. It is indicated
for autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Ankylosing Spondylitis and
Scleroderma, plus it is useful for skin conditions such as eczema,
psoriasis and leprosy. It increases oxygen flow to the brain and
peripheral tissue, i.e. feet and hands. Gotu Kola is also used to
treat varicose and spider veins. Topically it is used to prevent
scarring from burns and surgery.
|
|
Schisandra
berry/Wu Wei Zi
(Schisandra chinensis) * |
Translates as
Five Flavor Fruit. This herb is a powerful adaptogen strengthening
hypothamic/adrenal function and normalizing nervous system and
immune activity. Schisandra also acts as a mild, non habit forming
stimulant increasing energy, focus and kidney qi. In addition it
protects the liver from damage caused by toxins or viruses.
|
|
Ginkgo leaf
(Ginkgo biloba) * |
Indicated in
cases of chronic cerebral vascular insufficiency such as vasculsar
insufficiency headaches, diabetic retinopathy, tinnitis, poor memory
and senility. It has both bronchiodilator and anti-inflammatory
properties useful in treating asthma. Ginkgo is also used for
peripheral arterial insufficiency, varicose veins and impo-tence
caused by impaired circulation.
|
|
Bacopa herb
(Bacopa monnieri) * |
An
anti-inflammatory, thyroid stimulant, diuretic, and mild cardiotonic
agent. Recent research indicates that it is useful for cognitive
impairment, anxiety, and hypothyroidism. It is traditionally used
for irritation of the genito-urinary, respiratory, and
gastro-intestinal tracts. |
|
Lemon Balm
fresh herb
(Melissa officinalis) * |
A mild,
flavorful remedy appropriate for children's colds, stomachaches and
headaches. Lemon balm is useful for mild depression especially
seasonal affective disorder, mild hypertension, herpes and
hyperthyroidism.
|
|
Rosemary herb
(Rosmarinus officinale) * |
A carminative,
antioxident, and cholagogue traditionally used in Europe for gas,
nausea, liver headaches, biliousness, depression and mental fatigue.
Its powerful anti-oxidant activity reduces damage caused by free
radicals helping to prevent atherosclerosis, macular degeneration
and possibly some types of cancer.
|
|
Bibliography: |
Bartrain, T.
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, 1995
Beek, Bombardelli, et al, Ginkgo biloba L., Fitoterapia vol. LXIX
#3, 1998
Chang & But, P. Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Materia
Medica, 1986
Kapoor, L.D.
CRC Handbook
of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants,
1990
Skenderi, G., Herbal Vade Mecum, 2003
Weiss, R. Herbal Medicine, 1985 |
|
*Herbal
Therapeutics Research Library
Author: David Winston (RH) AHG
©2007
Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved |
Disclaimer: The information on
historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and
traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and
research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for
consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any
attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the
direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author
are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences
resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should
you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any
preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a
professional health care advisor. |