Natural Herbs

Nutraceuticals

The public’s search for newer, less-expensive and more effective treatments has fueled a growing interest in nutraceuticals. Whether they come in the form of nutrients, herbs or dietary supplements, claims of nutraceuticals’ effectiveness in the prevention of various ailments have brought increased attention to these alternative forms of treatment.

Herbs

Perhaps due to their more obscure, somewhat romanticized image, people have progressively turned to herbs for their potential health benefits. Less tested than those nutraceuticals derived from household fruits and vegetables, herbs have provided the public with hopes of new and undiscovered treatments. The following botanical products, often marketed in the form of concentrates or extracts, have been commonly cited for their therapeutic effects. *

• Aloe Vera—alleviates inflammation, sooths skins
• Chamomile—alleviates inflammation, heals wounds
• Echinacea—treats symptoms of the common cold
• Ephedra- reduces appetite, narrows blood vessels (thereby increasing blood pressure)
• Garlic—inhibits growth of fungus, fights common cold, lowers cholesterol
• Ginger—decreases nausea, lowers cholesterol
• Ginkgo Biloba—improves short-term memory and attention, increases blood flow
• St. John’s Wort—decreases depression
• Willow Bark—alleviates inflammation, relieves pain

*Word of Caution: Although the above herbs were found my many to be effective in alleviating certain ailments, dangerous side effects associated with their use have also been reported. Nutraceuticals.com does not promote these or alternate herbs and suggests that individuals who choose to use, through consumption, topical application or otherwise, any nutraceuticals do so only under the strict supervision of a doctor.