Devil's Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens
Part used: Tubers
Devil's claw grows in the grasslands of southern Africa and has been used there as a topical treatment for ulcers and wounds,and taken internally for fevers,allergies,digestive problems and as a pain reliever. Numerous scientific studies confirm its benefits, most notably as an effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory for arthritis pain and backache.Some studies have shown devil's claw to be as effective as pharmaceutical pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Do you have digestive, respiratory and cardiac problems (especially when caused by stress), then Dang shen is what you need.
Dang shen
(Codonopsis pilosula)
Part used: Roots
Chinese herbalists regard dang shen as a gentle version of the more famous stress and energy tonic, Korean ginseng. This distinction means that it can be prescribed for patients who are frail or debilitated, for whom ginseng is considered too stimulating. Dang shen is also traditionally used for treating digestive, respiratory and cardiac problems (especially when caused by stress) and as a nourishing blood tonic for nursing mothers and other anaemic patients.
Cat's Claw
Uncaria tomentosa, U. guaianensis
Part used: Vine Bark
Cat's claw grows in tropical South and Central America and takes its name from the shape of the long thorns that help it to climb over other plants in the jungle. It has been used for hundreds of years by Peruvians to treat inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, asthma and skin problems, and is also a traditional remedy for infections, fatigue and cancer. Laboratory studies attribute it with a number of immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be behind many traditional applications; little research has been conducted in humans.
More on Medicinal Herbs........
Buchu
Agathosma betuling
Part used Leaves
The South African herb buchu is mainly regarded as a remedy for the urinary tract, although traditionally it was also used to treat digestion and joint problems. Its volatile essential oil has antiseptic properties and is considered responsible for the herb's benefits in treating infections of the kidneys, bladder, urethra and prostate, Buchu also has diuretic actions, so it is indicated for fluid retention.
More on Medicinal Herbs........
Astragalus
Astragalus membranaceus
Part used Roots
One of the most important qi tonics in traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is taken to enhance vitality and increase energy. It has potent immune-boosting properties, so it may be prescribed to build resistance against infections as well as for more serious problems, such as helping the body's defences cope with the trauma of chemo- and radiotherapy. Herbalists also prescribe astragalus for a wide range of other conditions, including liver and kidney dysfunction, heart problems and for aiding recovery from blood loss (especially after childbirth)
Continuing our discussion on medicinal herbs.........Andrographis
Andrographis paniculata
Parts used Leaves, aerial parts
Andrographis features in the traditional medicine of China, Thailand, India and Korea.An extremely bitter herb, it is used as a digestive tonic in Ayurvedic medicine, while in traditional Chinese medicine, Its cooling properties mean that it is indicated for dispelling heat and treating infections and toxins. Andrographis also has immune-stimulating properties, and is used to help prevent colds and flu to treat their symptons.
Medicinal herbs.
Modern botanical medicine has become truly international and herbalists now have access to the most effective herbs from all parts of the globe.
Albizia
Albizia iebbeck
Part used Stem bark
The tradidtional Ayurvedic applications for albizia include a range of inflammatory and allergic skin and respiratory conditions, and laboratory research indicates that it does indeed have anti-allergic properties. It appears to have particular benefits for mast cells, which play a major role in allergic reactions, so it may help some people becomes less sensitive to substances to which they are allegic.
In the coming weeks, we will discuss more of such medicinal herbs.
