Herbal Remedies
Continued from Herbs for Health
Herbal remedies are once again coming into prominence. Concern over side effects is a common reason for people shifting away from conventional to herbal medicine. They are looking for a natural, gentle form of treatment.
Aspirin is the chemically derived version of White Willow (salix albra). White Willow is deciduous tree native to Europe where it has been used for pain management. Salicylic acid is its main active constituent. Willow was one of the first herbs to be scientifically investigated. In 1838, the French chemist, Leroux, extracted the active ingredient "salicine." By 1899 a less irritating acetyl salicylic acid was manufactured and marketed as aspirin. This was the first plant-derived drug of the modern generation. White Willow is an analgesic (pain reducer), anti-inflammatory (reduces inflammation), antirheumatic (alleviating or preventing rheumatism), antipyretic (reduces fever) and even as an astringent. While white willow bark takes longer to begin acting than aspirin, its effect may last longer. Natural salicylic acid is nearly as potent as aspirin. The compound salicin from willow however does not cause gastric or intestinal upset or bleeding as aspirin can. Avoid white willow bark, if you are sensitive to aspirin, or if you have an ulcer or other gastrointestinal disorder. Don’t take white willow bark (or aspirin) if you have tinnitus. Consult with your doctor before taking this herb if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
As with aspirin products, never give white willow bark to children or teenagers under age 16 with symptoms of the cold, the flu, or chicken pox. Although white willow bark is metabolized differently than aspirin and is unlikely to cause the rare but potentially fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in such cases the similarity to aspirin is close enough to warrant caution. White willow bark should not be taken with aspirin or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen; in combination, the herb and these drugs increase the chance of side effects such as stomach bleeding.
Valerian (valeriana officinalis) has been used as a sedative and relaxant since Roman times. It is nature’s version of Valium without the side effects. It is safe, and non-addictive. It is native to Europe and Asia, and is a perennial. Dioscorides named it phu--reflecting its unpleasant odor. Valerians constituents are the volatile oil, iridoids, and alkaloids. It is still being used as a sedative, relaxant, antispasmodic (reduces muscles spasms), and as an anxiety reliever. The valepotriates are sedative and induces sleep. Extensive research in Germany, and Switzerland has confirmed Valerians use as a way to encourage sleep. Valerian reduces metal over activity, and nervous excitability. It is useful for almost all stress related conditions. It can help with symptoms of anxiety including palpitations, panic, and tremors. It relaxes overly contracted muscles. Avoid Valerian if pregnant or nursing, or are already taking a sleep inducing drug. Valerian can be taken in a relaxing tea combined with related, better tasting herbs to hide it’s aroma.
Alternative healing is becoming more popular every year as people look towards more natural approaches to health and living. This Natural Healing article is not meant to diagnose or treat any ailment. The information provided is not meant for a substitute for medical care. It is meant for information purposes only.
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