Below is a list of my top 30 favorite herbs that address each body system/organ and major health issue. Notice the dosage, side effects, uses, and safety for long or short term use. This list is not to be used to self diagnose or treat illness/injury/or disease, so please use it for reference purposes only and be sure to seek professional guidance before attempting to take any herbal remedies. Not only are herbs powerful, but they are not for everyone. Medications, diet, lifestyle, and other environmental and stress related issues can interfere with the safety and integrity of herbal medicine. Since many herbs can be purchased over-the-counter, it is of utmost importance to have a clear understanding of any possible complications.
I hope you find this list helpful, and may it encourage and support you on your journey toward optimum health by offering natural options and new possibilities!
TOP 30
1.
Goldenseal Root
Goldenseal
is a multi-functioning herb, used for many purposes throughout the body. Refer
to this herb for digestive health, lymphatic drainage, and anti-inflammatory
benefits. Goldenseal is a superstar herb for the lymphatic, digestive, and
female reproductive systems, as well as the skin and liver. It is a supportive
herb for the eyes, as well as cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, and male
reproductive systems.
Primary Functions:
*Anti-Inflammatory
*Restorative
tonic (general health/G.I tract)
*Mild Stimulant
for circulatory, digestive, and nervous systems
*Mild/Moderate
antibiotic
*Inhibits
excessive bleeding/contracts blood vessels
*Part of
Detoxification program
Dosage:
*Capsule:1
"0" (325mg), 2x daily
*Infusion:
1/2-1tsp powdered root per cup. Steep 10 min in boiling hot water 2x daily
*Decoction: 1-2
swallows, 2x daily
*Tincture: 30
drops, 2x daily
SAFETY: If taking capsules, also
take Vitamin C and Milk Thistle. This herb may diminish healthy bacteria, so
take a probiotic if using for more than 3 days. High doses may interfere with
Vitamin B metabolism. Berberine, the most active substance in Goldenseal is
also in Oregon Grape root and Barberry. These herbs are fair substitutes, not
to be used in addition to (or too much Berberine). Cut and sifted Goldenseal
should be Gold in color, not yellow. Contraindicated for Pregnancy, Heart
disease, High blood pressure, Glaucoma, Stroke, and Diabetes, Not to take
longer than 3 days/1 week
2.
Panax Ginseng
Panax
Ginseng is a superstar herb for the immune, endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular,
musculoskeletal, and male reproductive systems. It is a supportive herb for the
liver and respiratory system. This is a powerful herb used for many purposes,
yet finding good quality Panax Ginseng is rare and expensive. This herb is best
used in times of great need, not ongoing preventative use for someone healthy.
Primary Functions:
*Superior
adaptogen
*Restorative
*Stimulant
*Energy tonic
*Protection from
radiation/chemical toxins
Dosage:
*Capsules:
200-500mg of standardized extract daily
*Infusion/Decoction:
Different constituents extracted for different cooking times.
*Tincture:1-2ml
daily, 1:1 extract = 1-2grams of root. Take for 4 weeks-3 months, with 1-2 month break after each cycle.
*Sucking on a
piece of the herb for a long period of time can also allow one to experience
the benefits.
*
Most Effective Delivery Form: Infusion/Decoction. Drink
Infusion, then simmer 5 minutes, and drink as tea. Then simmer
for 20 minutes, and 40 minutes, drinking each batch.
SAFETY: Women should balance
Panax Ginseng with phytoestrogen herbs. Use caution if experiencing insomnia,
hay fever, or fibrocystic breasts. Avoid during pregnancy. Not recommended to
take with other stimulants, such as caffeine. Contraindicated for
Arrhythmia/tachycardia, Asthma/emphysema, Fever Present, High blood
pressure/hypertension.
3.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian
Ginseng, also known as Eleuthero, is a cheaper and highly effective alternative
to other forms of ginseng. It is not actually ginseng, but has similar effects.
This herb is great for ongoing use as a preventative, or to address acute and
chronic illness. Siberian Ginseng is a
superstar herb for the immune, endocrine, cardiovascular, nervous, and
musculoskeletal systems.
Primary Functions:
*Ultimate
adaptogen
*Physical and
emotional stress
*Improves
general health
*Long term
energy tonic
*Ultimate
thyroid regulator
Dosage:
*Decoction:
1/2 cup several times a day, depending on need.
*Tincture: 40
drops, 3x daily
*Use daily for
3-4 months, discontinue for 1-2 months. Repeat.
SAFETY: Very safe long term
herb. No known drug interactions. No contraindications.
4.
Astragalus
Astragalus
is a superstar herb for the immune, urinary, and cardiovascular systems. It's
also a supportive for the liver, as well as nervous and lymphatic systems. This
is a great herb for long term use and prevention.
Primary Functions:
*Heart tonic
*Anti-fatigue
*Long term tonic
*Immune
stimulant
*Physical and
emotional stress
Dosage:
*Decoction: 1-2
sticks per cup
*Tincture: 40
drops, 3x daily (not more than 4x)
SAFETY: Contraindications: Fever
present
5.
Schizandra
Schizandra
is a superstar herb for the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory,
and musculoskeletal systems, as well as the liver. It is also a supportive herb
for the immune and digestive systems. This herb is great for general health,
and can be used as a preventative or a long term tonic.
Primary Functions:
*Anti-toxic
*Energy tonic
*Adaptogen
*Full body
tonic/regulator
Dosage:
*Decoction: boil
5 minutes
*Tincture: 40-45
drops, 3x daily on an empty stomach
SAFETY: Safe for long term daily
use with no side effects, except sensitivity to taste. Contraindicated for pregnancy.
6.
Garlic
Garlic
is a superstar herb for the immune, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. It
is a supportive herb for the respiratory system, as well as the ears and skin.
Garlic is my favorite herb, though it is not good for everyone. It's great to
take at the first sign of symptoms, and has a wide range of health benefits and
uses.
Primary Functions:
*Antioxidant
*Antiseptic
*Anti-inflammatory
*Blood/lymph
cleanser
*Blood thinner
*Cardiovascular
tonic
*Earaches
*Anti-fungal/candida
*Moderate
antibacterial
*Colds/flu/fever
*Cytotoxic
*Diaphoretic
Dosage:
*Yeast
infection: coat 1 clove in olive oil and poke pin holes before inserting in
vagina. Keep in 8 hours, use tampon to hold in it.
Douche/chlorophyll (2-3 oz), and repeat for two additional days.
*Vaginal douche:
1 clove garlic crushed and covered in boiling water. Allow water to cool, then drain/strain water for douche bag.
*Eating cloves:
use raw or lightly cooked (cooked disrupts sulfur hydryl compounds). Too much
is ` irritating
for digestion, so rely on taste.
*Capsules:
Enteric coated prevents bad breath.
*Tea: 1-2 cloves
per cup
*Standardized
formula: 5,000mcg or more daily.
SAFETY: Douching is discouraged
for ongoing use, as it disrupts friendly bacteria. Contraindicated for clotting
disorders.
7.
Echinacea
Echinacea
is a superstar herb for the immune, respiratory, and lymphatic systems. It is a
supportive herb for the male and female reproductive and urinary systems, as
well as the ears. Echinacea is great for treating the early set of symptoms,
and can often hold off or lessen the effects of illness.
Primary Functions:
*Anti-inflammatory
*Antiseptic
*Ultimate
blood/lymph cleanser
*Anti-viral/anti-bacterial
*Short term
preventative
*Immune
stimulant
Dosage:
*At first sign
of symptoms: tincture: 1tsp,
followed by 1/2tsp every 2 hours. Continue until 3 days after last symptoms. OR 50-60 drops in room
temperature water, 4x daily.
*Prevention:
Take tincture for 6-8 weeks. Stop use for 2-4 weeks. Repeat.
SAFETY: Not a long term herb, or
a general preventative for healthy individuals.
Mouth rash may occur is sensitive people. Contraindicated for HIV positive,
lactation (unless mother suffers from a respiratory infection), and auto immune
diseases/disorders.
8.
Aloe Vera
Aloe
Vera is a superstar herb for the skin, as well as digestive and immune systems.
It is a supportive herb for the female reproductive and urinary systems. Aloe
is very safe, and can be a great addition to a daily diet in the form of juice.
This herb is great for a wide variety of internal and external tissue health.
Primary Functions:
*Soothing and
healing emollient/emulsifier
*Anti-inflammatory
*Pain relief
*Astringent/antiseptic
*Anti-fungal/anti-viral/anti-bacterial
*Cell renewal
stimulant
*Protects mucus
membranes when used internally
*Immune boosting
Dosage:
*Skin: apply
hand-filleted leaf serum liberally
*Juice: 1-2tsp
up to 3x daily (commercial products are to be certified to contain good amounts
of manapol)
*Most
Effective Delivery Form: Fresh hand-filleted mature leaves, Or freeze dried.
For internal conditions drink aloe vera juice.
SAFETY: Very safe.
9.
Bee Propolis
Bee
Propolis is a superstar herb for the immune, digestive, and respiratory
systems, as well as the skin. It is a supportive herb for the female
reproductive and urinary systems. This herb is a favorite for mouth and gum
issues, and to address internal infections.
Primary Functions:
*Anti-fungal
*Anti-viral
*Anti-microbial/anti-bacterial
*Antiseptic/astringent
*Anti-inflammatory
Dosage:
*Tincture:
(acute problems) begin with 60 drops diluted in slightly warm water. Then, 40
drops every 4 hours (maximum 4/5
doses daily). May
apply tincture topically.
*Capsules: 3 - 500mg,
3x daily OR 4 caps, 2x daily
*Lozenge: Chewables
often combined with zinc glucanate (don’t take long term)
*Throat spray:
Use 2-3x what is recommended on manufactured products. (Fairly weak)
*Acute problems:
Take 1-2 days after symptoms
SAFETY: Low toxicity. Side
effects may include occasional contact dermatitis, oral inflammation, and
damage to healthy intestinal yeast. Taking probiotics during and after using
propolis is recommended. Use caution when a long history of allergies or skin rashes
is present. Resins may irritate the kidneys with long term use, using a high
quality propolis may prevent this. Propolis from the USA is considered safe,
however propels from Europe may contain lead. Tinctures made with alcohol may
irritate a sore throat, be sure to dilute with water. Evaporating the alcohol
in tinctures before use is recommended if using for burns, or when candida is
present.
10.
Licorice
Licorice
is a superstar herb for the immune, endocrine, digestive, and female
reproductive systems. It is a supportive herb for the respiratory, lymphatic,
and urinary systems, as well as the liver. This is a favorite herb for
digestion, and to raise blood sugar when needed.
Primary Functions:
*Detoxification
*Energy tonic
*Adjunct herb
*Digestion
*Stress
*Blood sugar
stabilizer (hypoglycemia)
Dosage:
*Therapeutic:
2-3 grams, 3x daily
*Preventative: 1
gram, 3x daily
*Decoction: boil
stick for 20-40 min, or use 1/2tsp powdered herb per cup of water (max 2
cups daily)
*Tincture: 40
drops, 3-4x daily (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)/ or 50 drops, 3-4x daily (Glycyrrhiza
Uralensis)
SAFETY:
Long term use of therapeutic amounts may cause edema/hypertension. Side effect
may include vertigo and headaches, and it may raise blood pressure due to
increased potassium excretion. Contraindicated for those allergic to legumes,
or who have heart problems, hypertension, pregnancy, low basal
metabolic/thyroid rate, or anyone taking digitalis.
11.
Chamomile
Chamomile
is a superstar herb for the skin, as well as musculoskeletal, immune,
digestive, and nervous systems. It is a supportive herb for the female
reproductive system and liver. This herb is a favorite for evening use, to calm
the nervous system in anxious people, and assist in lowering stress. Topically,
chamomile is great for moisturizing and reducing wrinkles, and its soothing
effect makes for a great skin care product.
Primary Function:
*Anti-inflammatory
*Digestive
disorders
*Muscle
pain/spasms
*Stress/anxiety
*Skin disorders
Dosage:
*Tea: 1 heaping
tsp per cup
*Tincture: 45
drops, 1-3x daily (for sleep, take 1.5 hours before bed, and again 1/2 hr
before bed)
*Compress:
strong tea for cuts and wounds
SAFETY: Possible nausea or
vomiting with extremely large doses.
12.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion
Root is a superstar herb for pregnancy, the liver, and the endocrine system. It
is a supportive herb for the lymphatic, digestive, and urinary systems. This
herb is a favorite for strengthening general liver function.
Primary Function
*Alterative
*Energy
strengthener
*Liver health
Dosage:
*Decoction: 1-2
oz several times a day
*Tincture: 45-5
drops, 3-4x daily
*Capsules:
Mildly effective
SAFETY: Very safe. May cause
skin rash in those that are very sensitive.
13.
Burdock Root
Burdock
Root is a superstar herb for the lymphatic and urinary systems, as well as the
skin. It is a supportive herb for the female reproductive system and liver. A
favorite for releasing fat stored toxins, cleansing lymph and blood, and as an
antiseptic for vaginal douching.
Primary Function
*Blood/Lymph
cleanser
*Eruptive skin
diseases
Dosage:
*Tincture: 30-40
drops, 3x daily (room temperature)
*Decoction: 1-2
cups daily
*Fresh: 3 inch
piece of root daily (finger size)
SAFETY: Safe for long term use.
Use recommended dosages, as excessive amounts can increase lymphatic congestion.
14.
Ginko Biloba
Ginko
Biloba is a superstar herb for the eyes and ears, as well as the cardiovascular
and nervous systems. This herb is a favorite, and one of the only herbs known
to specifically address issues in the head/brain area.
Primary Function:
*Antioxidant
*Long term tonic
(head)
*Cardiovascular/circulation
*Brain/nervous
system strengthener
Dosage:
*Extract: take
3-5 months for best results
*Therapeutic:
40mg, 3x daily
*Preventative:
40mg, 1x daily
SAFETY: Contraindicated for
anyone taking blood thinners (i.e. Coumadin). Very Safe. Side effects may
include mild gastrointestinal
discomfort, headache, or rash. If taken in extremely high amounts, diarrhea and
nausea may occur.
15.
Bilberry
Bilberry
is a superstar herb for the eyes, as well as cardiovascular and digestive
systems. This herb is a favorite for long term use to assist with night vision
and heart health.
Primary Function
*Antioxidant
(eyes)
*Anti-aging
*Cardiovascular/circulation
*Digestive
Dosage: Standardized extract
(20-24mg/25% anthocyanidins)
*Preventative:
180mg daily
*Therapeutic:
200-300mg daily
*Capsules: 2-3
times per day
*Tincture: 35-40
drops, 2-3x daily
*Tea: Boil whole
berry for 2-5 minutes
*Infusion: 1-3
cups daily
SAFETY: No known side effects or
toxicity.
16.
Mullein
Mullein
is a superstar herb for the ears, as well as respiratory system. It is a
supportive herb for the lymphatic system. This herb is a favorite for
expectorating blood, and to sooth the lungs.
Primary Function
*Ear tonic
*Lung tonic
*Anti-inflammatory
*Soothing/emollient
Dosage
*Ear infection:
Lay with head turned to one side, add 4 drops of hydrogen peroxide to treat
infection. Wait a few minutes, and add
4 drops garlic oil to treat infection. Then add 4 drops mullein for prevention.
*Take on an
empty stomach for best absorption
*Capsule: mildly
effective. 2-3 "00" caps 3x daily
*Tincture: 45-50
drops, 3-4x daily
*Tea/Infusion: 1
heaping tsp per cup, 3-4x daily
SAFETY: Contraindicated for
obese people for its effect on the thyroid.
17.
Milk Thistle
Milk
Thistle is a superstar herb for the liver. It is also a supportive herb for the
immune and digestive systems. This herb is a favorite for its antioxidant
effect on the liver, and for very active person's who are more likely to
produce free radicals.
Primary Function
*Liver
detoxifier/strengthener
*Alterative
*Powerful
Anti-oxidant
*Anti-aging
*Protects from
airborne pollutants
Dosage
*Capsules: 140mg
*Prevention:
1 capsule, 1-2x daily
*Therapeutic:
1 capsule, 3-4x daily
*Tincture-
Silymarin is not measured in tinctures, fallow general guidelines on bottle.
*Prevention:
40 drops, 1-2x daily
*Therapeutic:
40 drops, 3-4x daily
SAFETY: Hard to take too much as
it is water soluble and excreted within 8-12 hours. No known side effects. May
cause a laxative effect. Safe
for pregnancy.
18.
Ginger
Ginger
is a superstar herb for the digestive and musculoskeletal system. It is a
supportive herb for the liver, as well as immune, nervous, and female
reproductive systems. This herb is a favorite for nausea, and for use as an
aromatic carminative. It's also a great herb for respiratory infections when
combined with cayenne, and for it's ability to improve the assimilation of
other herbs.
Primary Function
*Digestion
*Anti-inflammatory
*Aromatic
carminative
*Vaso dialator
*Diaphoretic
(taken hot)
*Diuretic (taken
cold)
Dosage
*Compress: soak
cloth in decoction and apply to skin
*Motion
sickness: 1,500mg 30 minutes prior to travel
*Tea: 2tsp
powdered or grated root for cup. Boil 10 minutes.
*Inflammation:
500-3,000mg daily
SAFETY: Excessive amounts can
irritate the urogenital tract. Contraindicated for urinary tract infections,
inflamed prostate, endometriosis, and pregnant women with a history of
miscarriage. If gallstones are present, consult a physician before using
therapeutic amounts. May cause heartburn in sensitive individuals.
19.
Chickweed
Chickweed
is a superstar herb for the respiratory, female reproductive, and urinary
systems; as well as the skin. It is also a supportive herb for pregnancy, as
well as digestive and male reproductive systems. This herb is a favorite for
balancing both internal and external tissue structure, and for tonifing the
tissues of the lungs, nasal passages (when used as a douche), and bronchioles.
Primary
Function
*Tissue tonic
*Urinary tonic
*Lung tonic
*Fat metabolism
*Dermatological
issues
*Anti-inflammatory
Dosage
*Infusion:
1tsp-1Tbsp per cup
*Capsule:
(Mildly effective) 2-3 caps, 3-4x daily
SAFETY:
Very safe. No known side effects.
20.
Nettles
Nettles
is a superstar herb for the musculoskeletal and urinary systems. It is a
supportive herb for the cardiovascular, as well as male and female reproductive
systems, and digestion. This is a favorite herb for its high mineral content,
and for its effect on joints and bone health.
Primary Function
*Anti-inflammatory
*Astringent
*Nutritive
*Joint/muscle
health
*Hair/fingernail
growth
Dosage
*Capsules:
(Mildly effective) 2 "00" caps, 4x daily
*Infusion:
1tsp-1Tbsp dried herb per cup, 3-4x daily
*Tincture: 50
drops, 3-4x daily
SAFETY: Long term preventative
herb. Contraindicated for edema due to heart and kidney issues. Excessive
amounts of tea may cause stomach
irritation, burning skin, and suppressed urination.
21.
Plantain
Plantain
is a superstar herb for the female reproductive system, skin, as well as
urinary system. It
is also a supportive herb for the male reproductive system
Primary Function
*Astringent
*Mild
anti-fungal
*Soothing/repairs
tissues (internal/external)
*Anti-inflammatory
*Dermatological
issues
*Cuts/wounds
Dosage
*Chew on leaves
and apply as poultice to cuts/wounds
*Take
a handful of fresh leaves a blend with 1/2 cup water
*Leave on wounds
for 20-60 minutes
SAFETY: Very safe.
22.
Cascara Segrada
Cascara
Segrada is a superstar herb for the liver. It is a favorite herb for
constipation and colitis, digestion of fats, and liver cleansing.
Primary Function
*Constipation
*Liver stimulant
Dosage
*Take on an
empty stomach and allow 8-9 hours to work.
*Tincture 40
drops, 3x daily
*Decoction 1-2
cups daily
*Capsules:
Mildly effective
SAFETY: Not for long term
continual use in large amounts. Contraindicated for pregnancy, nursing, ulcers,
ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome.
23.
Red Raspberry
Red
Raspberry is a superstar herb for pregnancy and the female reproductive system.
This is a favorite herb for its astringent effects on tissues in the lower
regions of the abdomen pelvic area.
Primary Function
*Anti-inflammatory
*Mild astringent
*Eye
wash
*Gastrointestinal
and uterine specific
Dosage:
*Extracts best
in tincture or infusion.
*Capsules:
(Mildly effective) 3-4 "00" caps, 3x daily
*Fresh herb
infusion: 2Tbsp chopped per cup (green spring leaves have high potency)
*Dried herb
infusion: 1Tbsp per cup, 2-4 cups daily
*Tincture: 45-50
drops, 3x daily (apple cider vinegar extracts more minerals, while alcohol extracts more
tannins for astringent value)
SAFETY: Use caution with any
herb containing tannins, as they tend to inhibit kidney function.
24.
Saw Palmetto
Saw
Palmetto is a superstar herb for the male and female reproductive systems. It
is also a supportive herb for the urinary system. This is a favorite for male
reproductive concerns, prostate health, low libido, and nutritional value.
Primary Function
*Nutritive
*Anti-inflammatory
*Male
reproductive health
*Urinary
disturbance
Dosage
*Therapeutic:
160mg standardized extract, 2x daily on an empty stomach
*Best taken
30-90 days
*Capsules: Can
be found with berries, or liposterolics with berry powder
*Decoction:
Crack berries first, then boil.
*Tincture:
Lipids are not fully extracted in this form. 50 drops, 2-3x daily
SAFETY: Can cause mild stomach
ache. No other significant side effects. Do not use tincture with urogenital inflammation, alcohol irritates tissues.
25.
St. John's Wart
St.
Johns's Wart is a superstar herb for the nervous and musculoskeletal systems.
It is a supportive herb for the skin and ears, as well as urinary system. It is
a favorite herb for low back/menstrual/sciatic pain, and emotional instability.
Primary Function
*Anti-inflammatory
*Antioxidant
*Mild Anti-viral
*Pain (external)
*Depression
Dosage
*Capsules: 300mg
cap, 3x daily. Use standardized extract (0.3% hypericin/0.9mg total).
*Can combine
capsules, tea, and tincture to ensure proper amount of constituents and
hypericin.
*Infusion:
1-2tsp per cup, 3 cups daily
*Tincture: 40-45
drops, 3x daily
SAFETY: Possible sores around
mouth in highly sensitive persons, if this occurs, lower dose/add licorice. May
cause skin cancer. High
doses have caused photosensitivity in animals. Avoid cheese, beer, wine,
L-Dopa, 5-Hydroxytrytophan.
26.
Noni
Noni
is a superstar herb for the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. It is a
supportive herb for the immune and digestive systems. This is a favorite herb
for prevention of general health issues, pain relief, energy and mood
enhancement, and nutritive value.
Primary Function
*Prevention for
wide range of health issues
*Anti-inflammatory
*Moderate pain
relief
*Adaptogen
*Antioxidant
*Nutritive
*Digestion
*Antibiotic
*Neuromuscular
issues
*Urinary and
gastrointestinal issues
Dosage
*Capsules:
375mg, 3-4x daily on an empty stomach. Take until symptoms are no longer
present.
*Juice: 1oz,
3-4x daily (refrigerate after opening)
*Cancer: 2 caps,
4x daily
*Fibromyalgia: 2
caps, 4x daily for 4-6 months.
*Prevention/Chronic
issues: 1 cap, 3-4x daily for 1-2 months. Some people may need to take this ` herb lifelong.
SAFETY: If nausea occurs when
taking capsules, use with food or lower the dose. Use caution with persons who experience
chronic diarrhea or gastrointestinal issues.
27.
Slippery Elm
Slippery
Elm is a superstar herb for the digestive system. It is a supportive herb for
the respiratory system, as well as the skin. This is a favorite for its effect
on the throat, upper bronchioles, dry coughs, diaper rash, bed sores, and the
GI tract when mild constipation/diarrhea is present.
Primary Function
*Demulcent
*Anti-inflammatory
*Soothing to
gastrointestinal tract
*Nutritive
*Skin
rash/cuts/wounds
Dosage
*Decoction: boil
dried herb 20-40 minutes, Or simmer 1tsp-1Tbsp powdered herb per cup, 3 cups daily
*Lozenges and
suppositories available
SAFETY: Very Safe. No known side
effects.
28.
Hawthorn Berry
Hawthorne
is a superstar herb for the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. It is a
favorite herb for regulating blood pressure, and strengthening the heart and
blood vessels.
Primary Function
*Cardiovascular
health
*Heart tonic
*Antioxidant
(heart tissue)
Dosage
*Heart patient
may want to take this herb for life.
*Infusion: 3-5
grams (2tsp) Dried herb per cup, steep 20 minutes, 2-3x daily
*Decoction: 1oz
herb to 16oz water, boil 2-5 minutes. (Most effective form)
*Tincture:
1/2-1tsp, 3x daily, or 30-35 drops, 3-4x daily
*Capsule:
(Mildly effective) 1000mg (2 caps), 3-4x daily
*Syrup/paste
available. May take up to 50% more than recommended dose of syrup.
SAFETY: Usually safe to use with
heart medications. Use caution when taking Coumadin, as this is also a blood
thinner. Possible rash, nausea, fatigue, and increased perspiration. No toxicity
or harmful side effects known. Safe for long term use. May enhance effects of
Digitalis, and require a lower dose of this drug.
29.
Uva Ursi
Uva
Ursi is a superstar herb for the urinary system. It is a supportive herb for postpartum
to prevent genitourinary infections. This is a favorite herb for bladder and
kidney infections.
Primary Function
*Urinary tract
infections
*Kidney
infections
Dosage
*Capsule:
(Mildly effective)
*Tincture: 40-45
drops, 3x daily
*Infusion:
1-2tsp dried herb per cup, 3 cups daily
SAFETY: Avoid acidic foods, as
they deplete the effectiveness of this herb. Can irritate the kidneys and cause upset stomach if used for more
than a week. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
30.
Kava Kava
Kava
Kava is a superstar herb for the nervous system. It is a favorite when used as
a muscle relaxant and for diabetic neuropathies.
Primary Function
*Muscle relaxant
*Nervous system
relaxant
Dosage
*Standardized
extract of 70mg, 3x daily
*Decoction:
4Tbsp in 1 pint water, lightly boil for 10 minutes
*Tincture:
strong/numbing taste
SAFETY: Excessive amounts/and
long term high doses can cause liver toxicity. Side effects of using 310 grams
(11oz or 3/4lb) weekly for more than 1-2 months, and may decrease serum albumin,
protein, urea, and bilirubin. Other side effects include blood in urine, and
shortness of breath.
Herbs & Body Systems: Top
30
Cardio: Hawthorn
(Strengthen), Burdock Root/Echinacea (Cleanse), Astragalus (Tonify), Panax
Ginseng (Stimulate)
Lymph: Burdock Root
(Cleanse), Licorice (Tonic/Detox), Siberian Ginseng (Regulator),
Goldenseal/Mullein (Drain)
Nervous: Ginko Biloba
(Strengthen), Chamomile (Sedate), Schizandra (Tonify), Goldenseal (Stimulate)
Brain: Ginko Biloba
(Strengthen)
Muscle: Nettles/Panax
Ginseng (Strengthen), Chamomile (Anti-inflammatory), Kava Kava (Relaxant), St.
Johns Wart (Pain Relief)
Endocrine: Panax
Ginseng/Schizandra (Tonic), Licorice/Garlic (Stimulant), Schizandra (Rejuvinate
), Siberian Ginseng (Regulator)
Pituitary: Garlic (stimulate),
Thymus: Siberian Ginseng
(regulate), Astragalus (strengthen), Echinacea (stimulate/regulate)
Thyroid: Siberian Ginseng(
regulate)
Adrenals: Goldenseal
(strengthen), licorice (strengthen/tonify)
Immune: Astralagus/Echinacea
(Stimulant/Tonic/Strengthen), Aloe/Bee Propolis/Garlic/Noni (Enhance), Panax
Ginseng (Regulator/Strengthen)
Eyes: Bilberry
(Enhance)
Ears: Mullein
(Tonic/Soothes), Echinacea/Garlic (Infections), Ginko Biloba (Hearing Loss),
Liver: Milk
Thistle/Dandelion Root (Detox/Strengthen), Panax Ginseng (Tonify), Burdock
Root/Cascara Segrada (Stimulate)
Digest: Aloe (Tonify ),
Licorice (Strengthen), Schizandra (Stimulate),
Colon: Cascara
Segrada/Noni (Stimulate/Cleanse), Red raspberry (astringe), Slippery Elm
(soothes)
Stomach: licorice (tonify),
Burdock Root/Ginger (stimulate)
Respiratory: Mullein/Schizandra
(Tonic), Aloe/Chickweed (Strengthen), Garlic/Licorice/Thyme (Expectorant),
Echinacea/Bee Propolis (Infection), Goldenseal (Stimulant)
Female: Red Raspberry
(Balancer), Licorice (Estrogen Regulator), Chickweed/Burdock Root (Tonify),
Chamomile/St. Johns Wart (Pain/Cramps)
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