|
Chaste Tree
berry
(Vitex agnus-castis) * |
The pungent
fruit of a native European shrub. Long used in Europe for women’s
reproductive problems, recent research has confirmed this herb’s
ability to help reduce menstrual and menopausal symptoms. It also
acts as a carminative, galactagogue and may help to control
adolescent acne.
|
|
Dong Quai root
(Angelica sinensis) * |
One of the
most frequently used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong
Quai improves circulation, reduces angina pain, acts as a mild anti-hepatotoxic
agent and improves bowel function.
|
|
Saw Palmetto
berry
(Serenoa repens) * |
Has gotten a
reputation as a “prostate herb”, but its effects are much broader.
It is an immune modulator, an adaptogen and a urinary tonic. It also
improves the function of both the male and female reproductive
systems.
|
|
Chinese Peony
root
(Paeonia lactiflora) * |
Acts as a
sedative, antispasmodic and nervine. It stops spasms and pain
especially in the abdomen, is helpful for headaches and resolves
night sweats caused by deficient yin patterns.
|
|
Shepherd’s
Purse herb
(Capsella bursa-pastoris) * |
Helps to
control bleeding such as hemoptysis and hematuria. It is also used
for urinary irritation and infections, especially with blood or pus
in the urine. |
|
Cinnamon bark
(Cinnamomum cassia) * |
This fragrant
spice is commonly used as a food, but it is also an excellent
medicine. It increases perpheral circulation and acts as a warming
digestive aid. Cinnamon also increases utilization of endogenous
insulin for use in insulin resistance and type II diabetes. It is
one of two ingredients in Ellingwood’s Compound (along with Canada
Fleabane) which is an effective anti-hemorrhage medication.
|
|
Cyperus tuber
(Cyperus rotundus) * |
A common weed
throughout the world, the tubers are carminative, antispasmodic,
antiemetic and anodyne. They are useful for gastric, ovarian,
uterine, testicular and interstitial pain.
|
|
Bibliography: |
Bensky, D. and
Gamble, A. Chinese Herbal Medicine - Materia Medica, 1985
Ellingwood, F. New American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and
Pharmacognosy, 1919
McIntyre, A. Complete Herbal for Women
Winston, D. Saw Palmetto - For Men and Women, 1999 |
|
*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. |