Herbs and Flower Essences

Modern research has confirmed the use of many herbs, including: cinnamon, for blood sugar regulation; turmeric, for inflammation; lemon balm, for agitation and nerves; cranberry, for bladder infections; black cohosh and chaste tree berry, for menopausal symptoms; ashwagandha, ginseng, and rhodiola, for energy problems; marihuana, for pain, seizures and inflammation; valerian, for anxiety and insomnia; and many others. Many herbal preparations have been researched and integrated into current medical practices, from the Chinese and Ayurvedic, Indian, tradition.

However, herbs can have toxic effects, sometimes acutely and at times from long-term use. Aristolochia (snakeroot) can cause kidney failure and cancer; Echinacea, Comfrey and Kava-kava can affect the liver, with potential failure; lobelia, used for asthma, can cause palpitations, low blood pressure, dizziness, tremor, and diarrhea; Scullcap, used for headaches, can affect liver function; yohimbine, used an sexual supplement, can affect blood pressure, cause heart arrythmias, cause respiratory depression and heart attacks; one needs to know how these substances work, their indications, contraindications and potential toxic effects before using to any significant extent.

Sometimes these compounds may be used with conventional medicines, but sometimes they may cause problems. For example, it is known for St. john’s Wort, used for depression and nerve injuries, can affect the function of hormones and creates sensitivity to the sun; quercetin, garlic, can thin the blood, so it may be contraindicated with Coumadin. There are similar herbs with challenging profiles.