Dear Readers

Several individuals have written Lifeline, asking for further information on the application of natural herbs to the treatment of illness following a Lifeline article on this subject. In response to this enthusiasm, Lifeline speaks again to the meaningful application to health issues of some of the more commonly used herbs.

Aloe vera

This well-known plant grows wild all over Jamaica. The active portion is the pulp form inside the leaf. Applied topically to the skin, this plant is an excellent pain reliever and can be used to treat superficial burns, sunburns and even sore nipples from breast feeding. Taken orally, it helps in the relief of stomach burn and constipation.

Black Cohosh

This herb is taken in an extracted form as a tea. It aids in the balance of female hormones and lowers blood sugar. It is also used in the herbal management of arthritis and in 'ringing' of the ears. However, when taken in excess it can cause nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness and should not be used by persons allergic to aspirin.

Chamonile

This flower is used as a tea or tincture. It soothes upset stomach and calms the nerves.

Cranberry

The juice has an antioxidant effect and is useful in the treatment of urinary-tract infections, acting as an antiseptic.

Dandelion

The dandelion leaf can be taken as a tea or juice. It promotes the excretion of fluids and, therefore, acts as a natural diuretic. It contains vitamins and minerals, especially potassium.

Dong Quai

This root is prepared as a liquid extract or tea. It is useful in females with hormonal imbalance and brings some relief from PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) and menopause symptoms. It also has a mildly sedative effect.

Evening Primrose

This oil extract from the seed has good anti-inflammatory effect and is useful in controlling chronic inflammatory conditions in PMP in the control of hot flashes in menopause ladies and in some skin conditions.

Echinacea

The root of this herb is prepared as a tea, tincture or salve. It boosts the immune system and helps treat insect bites and stings.

Flax

The flax seed soothes the digestive tract and helps in relief of constipation. Used excessively, it can cause agitation and rapid breathing.

Garlic

The cloves of this herb are said to have antibiotic, antiseptic and antiworm effect. It also assist in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.

Ginger

The ginger root helps to relive digestive symptoms and nausea. It also relieves congestion, lowers fever and gives some relief to muscle aches. A good adjunct to 'flu' treatment.

Ginkgo Biloba

The leaf of this herb is said to increase blood flow to the brain and other areas in the body. It is used in Alzheimer disease, although there are differing views as to its success. It is also thought to help the asthmatic, reduce ringing of the ears and depression.

Ginseng

This root is said to relive fatigue and build constitution after an illness.

Green tea

The leaf of this herb, taken as a tea, acts as an antioxidant and is said to have anti-cancer properties. It also helps in the control of cholesterol, as it is said to block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet.

Liquorice

This root, which is chewed or taken as a tea or liquid drink soothes coughs, increases energy and relieves peptic ulcers symptoms.

Marshmallow

The marshmallow root is quite useful in the relief of sore throat and lung congestion.

Parsley

The leaf of this herb is said to increase urination and is helpful in relieving bladder infection.

Peppermint

The peppermint aids digestion and relieves nausea, gas, heartburn and diarrhoea. It is also said to reduce fever.

Saw Palmetto

This berry is beneficial to the male-reproductive system. It is used to treat benign prostate enlargement (BPE). However, results in the treatment of BPE remain inconclusive.

St Johns' Wart

This is often used to relieve mild depression. Again, there are no conclusive results on its effect. Applied topically, it reduces sprain.

Thyme

The thyme leaf is an antiseptic which helps promote good appetite and can assist in control of colic and flatulence. It helps relieve diarrhoea and lung congestion.

Turmeric

This root is an antioxidant, which helps control arthritis pain and lowers blood cholesterol.

While it is useful and economical to try natural home herbal remedies to treat illnesses it must be noted that the effects of most herbs are not yet adequately scientifically documented. Almost all herbs will have adverse side effects when used excessively. Also, there are not always standardised recommend amounts for use.

Lifeline would suggest the use of herbal methods only when symptoms are mild (and not acutely uncomfortable, or in any manner life threatening).

When symptoms persist after a few days to weeks, a physician should be consulted for a proper assessment and, if necessary, accepted conventional treatment.

Still, it is always good to know that in a 'pinch' one can help one's self!

Write to:

Lifeline

PO Box 1731

Kgn 8

AJM