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Favorite Herbs For Medicinal Herb Gardening |
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There are few places that contain more scientific nonsense than in the advertisements for products that contain homeopathic medicinal herb medicines. Claims, almost miracle-like in nature, are made without properly being tested or even proven. Regardless, it is a fact that some herbs have been used to treat countless conditions for thousands of years and medicinal herb gardening has been done since antiquity. The following are some common herbs used for medicinal purposes:
by LeeDobbins
There are few places that contain more scientific nonsense than in the advertisements for products that contain homeopathic medicinal herb medicines. Claims, almost miracle-like in nature, are made without properly being tested or even proven. Regardless, it is a fact that some herbs have been used to treat countless conditions for thousands of years and medicinal herb gardening has been done since antiquity. The following are some common herbs used for medicinal purposes:
Chamomile
Chamomile, an herb named after a similarly named dried flower, is often used to make a tasty and safe tea. Drinking it can soothe you, and may even work as a mild sedative. Some claim that chamomile can lessen inflammation and fever, but this has not yet been verified. Other studies claim that chamomile contains certain compounds that can inhibit certain stomach ulcers caused by bacteria, but again this has not be fully proven.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to chamomile pollen, but for the majority the herb is considered safe even if it isn't the cure-all it is sometimes made out to be.
Echinacea
An herb that has been the subject of many studies is Echinacea. It has been touted as an herb that aids the immune system. It has also been used to treat symptoms of colds such as respiratory problems. Despite its popularity, none of these claims have ever been fully proven to be true.
Some research suggests it can help shorten the duration of a cold as well as ease symptoms. Other studies show that it may lessen the frequency of contracting colds. Such claims are difficult to prove, because so many factors are in play when one catches a cold, but the herb is believed to be safe. At the very least, the herb may be a good placebo.
People who have diabetes should absolutely speak to their physician before taking Echinacea.
Feverfew
Feverfew is an herb to be think carefully of when it comes to your medicinal herb gardening efforts. There is some medical belief that the perennial feverfew, contains active ingredients that may help in treating inflammation and migraines. The usage of feverfew has shown a tendency to reduce clotting.
You should be aware of the possible side effects which may include: skin inflammation, mouth ulcers, reduced absorption of iron, increased heart rate, or negative reaction with migraine medication.
Ginseng
There is an ancient herb which is derived from the ginseng plant. This herb has been used for thousands of years in China and India. It is versatile for it is used in hundreds of forms. Most recently, studies have shown that the herb can increase good cholesterol levels (HDL levels) and even reduce blood sugar
While there's no evidence supporting its ability to actually enhance sexual performance, it is safe. Of course, in circumstances such as this, a placebo can often be as good as an actual effective ingredient. Sometimes, if you think it will work, it will. Ginseng, however, is an herb that both pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking as it contains compounds similar to estrogen. It can also reduce blood sugar to levels too low to be considered healthy and, when taken in large quantities, has been known to induce asthma attacks.
Before you try herbs to treat your own health, you should gather a lot of information and do your own research first. Lots of stories and opinions abound, and medicinal herbs have been used for a long time. But it's hard to get truly scientific, objective information. Be careful.
You can get into medicinal herb gardening right at home. It requires no more work that growing any kind of perennial, and you can do it in pots or in your yard or garden. The rewards you can reap are a steady supply of fresh homeopathic medicinal herb plants on hand when you need them.
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