Hibiscus, a popular tea herb in many parts of the world, can markedly lower systolic blood pressure in type II diabetic people with mild hypertension, according to a recent clinical trial. On the other hand, black tea tends to increase systolic pressure.
An extract of Elderberry (Sambucus) proved effective in reducing symptoms associated with human influenza in a new placebo-controlled clinical trial.
In the first head to head comparison of a botanical therapy versus a drug for management of menopausal symptoms, a standardized formulation of Black Cohosh was equally effective as tibolone, a drug widely used in Europe and Asia; the herbal formula had fewer adverse effects. Pycnogenol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory derived from the bark of French Maritime Pine trees, can reduce menopausal symptoms while improving women’s lipid profiles.
Chronic sleep problems are so common that many people simply accept them as an inevitable part of modern life. But lack of sleep is extremely detrimental to health. According to Anne McClenon, ND, chronic sleep loss should be considered a medical emergency. But quick-fix drugs are not the answer. Nutrients like melatonin, herbs like Valerian, and elimination of late night TV or computer use, are a lot safer and more effective in restoring healthy sleep.
It sometimes happens, given the complex nature of our relationship with plants, that one person’s bane turns out to be another’s balm.
Two new studies reassert the value of Black Cohosh in managing menopausal symptoms and depression. A separate study indicates that a handful of roasted soy nuts per day can reduce blood pressure as well as menopausal symptoms. Dr. Tori Hudson reviews the data and offers her opinions on the findings.
Triterpenes from the shea nut, an emerging natural treatment for osteoarthritis and other joint problems, can greatly reduce markers of inflammation and cartilage breakdown, according to a new study by Dr. Philip Cheras, director of the Australian Centre for Complementary Medicine Education and Research (ACCMER), Brisbane.
Urinary incontinence is common, and incidence will only increase as the population ages. Conventional drugs often have unwanted side-effects. Fortunately, there are a number of herbal allies like rosehips, saw palmetto, and teasel, as well as homeopathic remedies that can help strengthen urinary tract smooth muscle and reduce involuntary urine flow.
The patient, a 51-year-old woman, “showed jealousy toward her husband as the first noticeable sign of the disease. Soon a rapidly increasing loss of memory could be noticed. She could not find her way around her own apartment.
Long valued for its culinary zing, turmeric also contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds. New data suggest that it could be an ally in treating certain types of lymphoma, and also that it reduces “bad” cholesterol.
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