Alternative Herbal Medicine Or Herbalism

Herbal medicine is an ancient practice that dates back to early centuries. This practice is based on the use of plants and plant products as well as minerals, shells and other animal parts. Parts of plants such as leaves, flowers, stems, seeds and barks are also considered herbs and are also widely used.

Herbal medicine and modern science

Herbalism is one of the most ancient of all alternative medicine practices. It is widely accepted by the medical community because of its scientific basis. It also plays an important role in the development and manufacture of many medications and dietary supplements as about 25% of all prescription drugs are derived from trees, shrubs, or herbs. Majority of these medications are mixtures of herbs, plant extracts, and other organic substances that helps the body heal by utilizing a balance of ingredients provided by nature. Herbs are as effective as drugs but without the side effects especially if used appropriately.

Some of the most common herbs and their uses

There are thousands of herbs that have various positive and healing effects on the body. Some are used to prevent illnesses while some are used to cure and others are used to enhance the appearance and general well being of one person. The Alfalfa is commonly used to detoxify and alkalize the body. It also helps in lowering the cholesterol level in the blood, ease inflammations and helps in balancing the hormones. It is also a good treatment for bleeding disorders, anemia and disorders in the bone, joint, colon, digestive system, and the skin. Another popular herb is the aloe vera which is mainly used to treat wounds and burns. It also helps in minimizing or eliminating scars by promoting cell regeneration in the skin. Other valuable properties include antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral that helps in fighting off different types of infections. Chamomile is not only popular as an herbal medicine but there are also teas that are chamomile infused. It is very popular for its calming effects that help in relieving stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Risks of herbal medicine

As with any types of medications, herbs also have negative interactions with each other. It is best to inform your physician if you are taking more than one herb at the same time; either for medication or supplement. This will help your physician monitor your health and your body’s reaction to the herbs. Pregnant women should refrain from taking any herbal medication unless advised by a physician as some herbs increase the risk if getting a miscarriage.

There are many reasons to use alternative herbal medicine as a means to aid in the healing on it’s own, or with traditional medicine.

Home | Nutrition | Supplements | Ginkgo biloba helps people with dementia Ginkgo biloba helps people with dementia

By David Liu

Ginkgo biloba extract preparations may not help prevent cognitive decline in elderly people who have no cognitive problems or mild cognitive impairment, according to a new study reported in the Dec 23/30 issue of Journal of American medical Association.

The trial study led by Beth E. Snitz, Ph.D., of the University of Pittsburgh, and colleagues showed taking a ginkgo biloba extract did not seem to have any effect on global cognitive change and specific cognitive domains of memory, language, attention, visuospatial abilities and executive functions in elderly people.

In the trial conducted between 2000 and 2008, 3,069 men and women aged 72 to 96 were randomly given 120 mg of the herbal remedy or a placebo twice a day for an average of six years. The researchers found no evidence to suggest that taking ginkgo biloba extract may prevent cognitive decline.

It remains unknown whether the findings are applicable to people in other age groups. And also it is unknown whether the dose of the herbal supplement used in the trial is optimal. Many trials have shown that ginkgo biloba helps people with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Joe Mercola, owner of mercola.com, reported on Nov 2, 2002 that a major review of 33 clinical trials by researchers at the Cochrane Collaboration in Oxford concluded that evidence is promising that dietary supplements with the herbal medicine Ginkgo biloba can improve memory and function in people with dementia. The remedy appeared to be safe without excessive side effects, according to the review.

A recent review of 10 randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trials led by Austrian scientists and published in the Sept 2009 issue of Fortschritte der Neurologie-Psychiatrie indicates that Ginkgo biloba extract is at least as effective as commonly prescribed drugs in treating dementia.