The "Best Of The Best" Herbs (2)

2001 Alan Keith Tillotson

Understanding Herbs

BURDOCK ROOT

Latin: Arctium lappa

Chinese: Niu bang zi

WHAT IT DOES: Burdock root is bitter and slightly pungent in taste, and cooling in action. It improves digestive, liver and bowel functions, reduces heat and inflammation, and helps detoxify poisons. It also heals the skin.

RATING: Gold

SAFETY ISSUES: None known

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Fresh vegetable: eat freely

• Decoction: l teaspoon of the root simmered in one cup of water for l0-l5 minutes, taken three times per day • Dried powder: two to six grams per day • 1:5 Tincture: 20-40 drops three times per day

Burdock root is available as a common vegetable, and it may be eaten freely in this form. As is common with many bitter herbs, Burdock stimulates digestion, increases bile secretion and reduces inflammation, which may account for its reputation as a liver detoxifier (Lin et al., 1996).

Burdock contains an abundance of inulin, a compound that feeds the friendly bacteria in the intestine. It is also mildly anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. Japanese scientists have shown that Burdock contains desmutagens,a word coined for substances that inactivate mutagens (cancer-causing agents) such as pesticides and toxic compounds that are created in some meats during the cooking process (Morita K et al., 1984). These findings help explain why Burdock root has traditionally been a first choice in treating frustrating skin conditions like eczema, boils, acne and psoriasis. Herbalists believe that imbalances or toxins in the bowels carry through to the liver and blood, and if the liver or bowels are slow in getting rid of them, they are eventually "thrown out" to the skin. TCM doctors also use Burdock root to treat fevers, cough and swollen red throat.

CARTHAMUS FLOWER

Latin: Carthamus tinctorius flos

Chinese: Hong hua

English: Safflower flower

WHAT IT DOES: Carthamus flower is pungent in taste and warming in action. It promotes blood circulation and helps reduce pain.

RATING: Silver, due to minor limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Should not be used during pregnancy. Use with caution if taking anti-coagulant

medications. Do not take during menstruation if bleeding is heavy.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Dried powder: three to nine grams per day Note: To make a wine preparation add nine grams of concentrated powder to four ounces of wine and take in one-ounce doses throughout the day.

Carthamus flower has a beautiful red color. It is one of my favorite herbs for promoting blood circulation, and it stops pain and can be used safely to treat poor circulation, dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea. At our clinic we also include it in formulas for treating angina pectoris and other serious cerebrovascular diseases. However, in such cases we only treat with carthamus in coordination with a cardiologist to assure patient safety. TCM doctors also use it to reduce spleen and liver enlargement. A rare special form of this flower from Tibet called tsang hong hua is considered to be the highest quality. TCM doctors believe taking carthamus flower with wine strengthens the herb’s ability to break down blood stasis.

Research highlights

• Chinese laboratory studies have shown that carthamus flower can improve coronary blood flow and increase the time necessary for the blood to clot. Clinical trials with a tablet made from an alcohol extract of carthamus resulted in reduced angina pain, improved endurance and improved EEG. Intravenous infusion also proved very effective (reported in Dharmananda, 1994).

• Decoctions of carthamus flower with other blood moving and Qi invigorating herbs have also proven beneficial in patients with coronary artery disease. In one study, patients reported significant reduction in symptoms, and 41% had an improvement in ECG after one month of treatment. Following the four-month study, 90% of the patients were able to stop using nitroglycerin (reported in Bensky and Gamble, 1993).

• Carthamus flower has shown pharmacological actions in animal and in vitro experiments including dilation of the coronary artery, constriction on the kidney blood vessels, protection against brain injury from ischemia (lack of blood flow), and lowering of cholesterol (reported in Yeung, 1983).

CASTOR OIL

Latin: Ricinus communis

Sanskrit: Eranda

WHAT IT DOES: Externally, castor oil stimulates lymph drainage. Internally, it is used as a laxative. RATING: Yellow, due to specific limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Castor oil is bitter and slightly sweet in taste. There are no known safety issues for external use. However, do not use for internal purposes with intestinal obstruction. Do not use internally for more than 10 days consecutively. Warning: Do not ingest seeds--they are poisonous.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Oil—internal laxative use: ingest one to two tablespoons at bedtime

• Oil--external use: soak cotton or flannel pads in the oil and apply as a moist pack for one-half to one hour, using a heating pad to stimulate absorption.

Use castor oil packs as follows: 1. Purchase a good quality castor oil, preferably in organic form free of chemicals and pesticides. 2. Wash cotton or flannel cloth in clean, hot water to remove poisons. 3. Saturate cloth in castor oil and place over area of treatment. 4. Cover with plastic and apply heat—medium setting on heating pad- -to increase penetration. 5. Leave on for 30 to 60 minutes. 6. Repeat every day or every other day for six days.

Castor oil is used externally to stimulate movement and elimination in the lymphatic system, and internally as a laxative. I never use castor oil internally as a laxative for more than one or two days per month due to its potency and bad taste. However, like other laxatives, it can be used to cleanse the bowels in cases of chronic or acute skin eruptions. Following the Ayurvedic tradition, short-term use of a potent laxative like castor oil is recommended if the patient suffers from heart disease, severe hypertension (to quickly reduce elevated blood pressure), or chronic fever.

Dr. William McGarey tells us in his book Edgar Cayce and the Palma Christi that a Dr. Arthur Schoch treated ten cases of severe skin eruption successfully with a few doses of castor oil. One patient reported to me that she could get pimples to disappear quickly by applying a single drop of castor oil to them a few times a day. At our clinic, we use castor oil primarily as an external preparation, as packs placed over swollen glands, cancers, cysts, hard swellings, and other abnormal growths. The oil seems to stimulate the lymphatic system to draw away poisons. We usually place the packs over the lymph glands near the shoulders, groin, upper back and neck, over the abdomen or liver, or over the kidneys. I remember in particular a woman with chronically swollen lymph glands in the neck who had seen several doctors to no avail. Castor oil packs rid her of the problem in two weeks.

CHAGA MUSHROOM

Latin: Inonotus obliquus

 WHAT IT DOES: Chaga mushroom has a bitter, coffee-like flavor. It stimulates the immune system and draws the life force out of tumors.

RATING: Silver, due to high concentration of nutrients

SAFETY ISSUES: None known

STARTING DOSAGE:

• 1:5 tincture: 40-60 drops two to three times per day

• Tea: dissolve one teaspoon dried mushroom in one cup of water several times per day

Chaga mushroom grows on birch trees in the colder northern climates. There have been150 species of medicinal mushrooms found to inhibit the growth of different kinds of tumors, especially cancers of the stomach, esophagus, and lungs (Wasser et al., 1999), but Chaga seems to stand out from the rest. I learned about this mushroom from herbalist David Winston, who told me it has been used traditionally to treat different forms of cancer in Siberia, Canada, Scandinavia, the United States and Russia.

Chaga is a fungal parasite which draws its nutrients out of living trees, rather than from the ground. Fungi digest food outside their bodies by releasing enzymes into the surrounding environment, breaking down organic matter into a form the fungus can then absorb. A look at the research on Chaga shows a similar pattern with respect to its effect on tumors.

The anti-cancer properties of betulin or betulinic acid, a chemical isolated from birch trees, is now being studied for use as a chemotherapeutic agent. Chaga contains large amounts of betulinic acid in a form that can be ingested orally, and it also contains the full spectrum of immune-stimulating phytochemicals found in other medicinal mushrooms such as maitake mushroom and shiitake mushroom. Currently, chaga is only available from Herbalists & Alchemists (see resource guide).

Research highlights

• Studies done in Poland have demonstrated Chaga’s inhibiting effects on tumor growth (Rzymowska, 1998).

• Betulin seems to work highly selectively on tumor cells because the interior pH of tumor tissues is generally lower than that of normal tissues, and betulinic acid is only active at those lower levels (Noda et al. 1997).

• Once inside the cells, betulinic acid induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the tumors (Fulda et al., 1997).

CHASTE TREE BERRY

Latin: Vitex agnus-castus

 WHAT IT DOES: Chaste tree berry is bitter and pungent in taste and cooling in action. It relieves symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.

RATING: yellow, due to limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Do not use when pregnant or nursing. Use with caution if taking hormones or birth control pills.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Tincture: 15-35 drops three times per day

• Dried berry: three to six grams three times per day

Chaste tree berry has risen in popularity over the past ten years because of its effect on the female hormone system. It has the ability to increase progesterone production, inhibit FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone or follitropin), and inhibit prolactin. Research has shown these effects to be non-toxic and attributes them to dopamine receptor-site binding (Jarry et al., 1994). FSH assists in follicle maturation in females, encouraging progesterone production. Additionally, it increases the secretion of estradiol, one of the female estrogens. Simply put, chaste tree berry helps increase both estrogen and progesterone, with a stronger effect on progesterone. This explains its traditional use as a remedy for PMS, menopausal symptoms, and breast pain (mastodynia).

At our clinic we often use chaste tree berry to treat simple PMS symptoms before resorting to more complex formulas. Although we usually use stronger herbs like lycium bark, red clover blossoms and soy extracts to treat hot flashes, sometimes adding chaste tree berry tincture can improve results.

In men, inhibition of prolactin causes a decrease in sperm production. Since chaste tree berry inhibits prolactin, monks used it in medieval times to reduce male sexual desire.

There is a commercial German chaste tree product (Agnolyt) that is beneficial for amennorhea, PMS-related water retention, mouth ulceration, and severe constipation (Amann 1982; Amann 1979; Amann 1965; Hillebrand 1964). However, for best results when treating amenorrhea it needs to be taken for up to a year. According to herbalist Paul Bergner, elevated prolactin levels are often found in people with celiac disease. Therefore, it may be wise to undergo a trial withdrawal of gluten before using chaste tree berry.

Research highlights

• In a double-blind, placebo controlled of 100 patients, extract of chaste tree berry was found effective in the treatment of breast pain related to the menstrual cycle (Halaska et al., 1998).

• In a randomized controlled clinical trial involving 52 women with mentrual problems due to elevated production of prolactin, chaste tree berry capsules reduced prolactin levels significantly and restored the mentrual cycles to normal without side effects (Milewicz et al., 1993).

• In a series of animal studies, chaste tree berry extract proved as effective as a synthetic dopamine agonist (Lisuride) in inhibiting prolactin secretion (Silutz et al., 1993).

CHRYSANTHEMUM FLOWER

Latin: Dendranthema grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum parthenium, C. morifolium

Chinese: Ju hua

WHAT IT DOES: Chrysanthemum flower is sweet and slightly bitter in taste, and slightly cold in action. It reduces heat and congestion in the liver, lungs and eyes, eases coughs and colds, fights viral illness and infection.

RATING: yellow, due to minor limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Should not be used during pregnancy, as it is a uterine stimulant. Occasional minor side effects such as mouth and gastric disturbance have been reported (reported in McGuffin et al., 1997). Some scientists voice concerns about potential allergic reactions or cross-reactivity with blood thinning agents such as Warfarin and Ticlopidine (Barsby et al., 1993, DeSmet, 1993).

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Fresh leaves: one to three per day

• Concentrated powder: one to three grams per day

Chrysanthemum flowers are used extensively in TCM formulas to treat upper respiratory infections, allergies, headaches, red eyes and hypertension. It effectively reduces irritation and inflammation in the lungs, nasal passageways and throat, and scientific studies have shown it to be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral (reported in Yeung, 1983). It also has a calming anti-hypertensive effect. The Chinese use it for the same purposes echinacea is used in the West, and it is commonly found in various cold and sinus remedies such as the famous Yin Chiao, available in many Chinese grocery stores.

We keep little packets of Yin Chiao tablets on hand at our clinic and give patients three pills three times per day at the first sign of a cold. It will often stop the cold within 24-48 hours, or at least shorten the duration by a few days. I have one elderly patient who calls me every year and asks for a big supply of what she calls her "Yin Choo cold pills." I think she’s hawking them on the side at her retirement home.

TCM doctors rate chrysanthemum according to its colors and place of origin. White chrysanthemum (bai ju hua) is considered slightly superior to other forms for nourishing the liver, and so is used to treat diminished vision. Yellow chrysanthemum (huang ju hua) has a greater wind- and heat-clearing activity, and is used most often to treat eye redness and headache. The best-quality yellow chrysanthemum (hang ju hua) comes from the Chinese city of Hangzhou. This type, in addition to its other uses, is strong enough to reduce dizziness caused by elevated blood pressure.

COCOA BEAN

Latin: Theorbroma cacao

Chinese: Cha ku li

WHAT IT DOES: Cocoa bean is bitter in taste and warming in action. It stimulates the mind and elevates mood.

RATING: Yellow, due to minor limitations in usage (contains caffeine)

SAFETY ISSUES: None known.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Dried powder: one to two grams two times per day. May be used sweetened or unsweetened.

The Latin Theorbroma means "Food of the Gods." Cocoa bean and its derivative, chocolate, can help digestion, increase blood flow to the heart, and ease chest congestion. It is high in antioxidants and happens to taste better than most other herbs. In Central America, cocoa bean has long been used to treat pregnancy problems and ease childbirth, coughs, chest congestion, and fever. Its use in the Western world took off in 1876 with the invention of milk chocolate.

Cocoa bean contains caffeine, tryptophan (a serotonin percursor), theobromine (a substance similar to caffeine) and amandamides (substances that activate the same receptor in the brain as marijuana). Of course, commercial cocoa products are loaded with sugar, so I prefer to make my own hot cocoa with soy milk, sweetened with a mixture of honey and stevia leaf. Sugar-free cocoa powder can be a good choice in formulas for patients in need of mild mood elevation. By the way, the amandamides are present in very, very small amounts, so if you want to get high from chocolate, you have to get fat too (Shively and Tarka, Jr 1984).

A recent Harvard School of Public Health study that received national attention in the popular press revealed that males who eat chocolate once or twice per week live, on average, one year longer than those who do not indulge. Unfortunately, the same result has not been demonstrated in women. Sorry.

Cocoa bean and chocolate, like coffee bean and tea leaves all contain xanthines, chemicals that help relax bronchial spasms and can be useful for treating allergies and asthma, especially in emergencies where no other medication is available (reported in Duke, 1997).

The xanthines include coffeine, theobromine and theophylline. People may actually use chocolate instinctively as a form of self-medication for dietary deficiencies, or to increase low levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Additionally, many Americans are deficient in magnesium, and chocolate craving may be a sign of magnesium deficiency.

Research highlights

• A placebo-controlled crossover study at the Institute of Sports Medicine at Beijing Medical University looked at the affect of chocolate on exercise recovery rates. Chocolate bar supplementation before exercise improved recovery by keeping blood sugars and other blood chemicals at good levels for up to 30 minutes after completion of one hour of running (Chen et al., 1996).

• Researchers have found that the episodic nature of chocolate cravings fluctuates with hormonal changes in women just before and during the menses, suggesting a hormonal link (Bruinsma and Taren, 1999).

• One cup of cocoa has about half as much caffeine as one cup of coffee, and it has a slower onset and longer course of action. Contrary to popular belief, and contradicting some earlier studies, caffeine in normal doses does not appear harmful to the heart, and does not increase risks of heart attack or arrhythmia (Chou and Benowitz, 1994).

• Animal studies have shown that chocolate supplementation seems to correct magnesium deficiency, but in the interest of calorie-counting and overall dietary sensibility it probably makes sense to correct this problem with dietary adjustments or supplementation rather than a chocolate feast (Planells et al., 1999).

• Surprisingly, milk chocolate does not seem to elevate blood fats such as cholesterol in spite of its high saturated fat content. Controlled studies indicate repeatedly that this is due to the unique effect of a saturated fatty acid called stearic acid (Kris- Etherton and Mustad, 1994).

CORDYCEPS MUSHROOM

Latin: Cordyceps sinensis

Chinese: Dong chong xia cao

English: Winter Worm Summer Flower

WHAT IT DOES: Cordyceps mushroom is sweet and bland in taste, and warming in action. It strengthens immunity and fortifies and heals the lungs and kidneys.

RATING: Gold SAFETY ISSUES: None known

STARTING DOSAGE: dried powder or tincture

• Dried powder: two grams two to three times per day

• 1:5 tincture: 10-15 drops two to three times per day

Winter worm summer flower is the direct translation from Chinese of this amazing mushroom that grows out of caterpillar larvae in the Himalayas. TCM doctors use it medicinally to treat chronic cough, wheezing from deficiency, emphysema, and consumptive cough. Because it tonifies both Yin and Yang, it is very safe and can be taken over a long period of time to stimulate endocrine function, reduce fatigue and calm nervousness. Cordyceps was reportedly used at the Olympics by Chinese women's track and field teams to enhance performance when they went on to set nine world-records. From the scientific point of view, attention has focused on Chaga’s immune-enhancing and cancer-fighting properties. At our clinic, we find cordyceps most useful for treating lung and kidney weakness of any variety. We also use it with other medicinal mushrooms after cancer therapy to strengthen the immune system. Although it is clear that similar nutrients in most medicinal mushrooms are generally found to stimulate immunity, it is also obvious that various mushrooms have different actions when given to living beings.

Research highlights

• Cordyceps, like many other medicinal mushrooms, contains complex sugars (especially beta 1,3 glucan) and other nutrients (nucleosides, triterpeniods) which seem to strongly nourish and activate various components of the immune system, useful in treating cancer, chronic fatigue and other immune disorders (Borchers et al., 1999; Nakamura et al., 1999).

• It also seems to have value in treating nephritis (Lin et al., 1999; Li et al., 1996)

• Cordyceps may help the immune system recognize tumors that otherwise might escape immune surveillance (Chiu et al., 1998).

• Other benefits include positive effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and an anti-aging effect (Zhu et al. 1998).

DANDELION ROOT & LEAVES

Latin: Taraxacum officinalis

Sanskrit: Atirasa Chinese: Pu gong ying

WHAT IT DOES: Dandelion is bitter, slightly pungent and sweet in taste. It speeds removal of inflammation and dampness from the liver, intestines and gall bladder, and detoxifies the blood. The leaves promote urination.

RATING: Gold

SAFETY ISSUES: None known. Excessive dosage may dampen appetite in some individuals.

STARTING DOSAGE: • Crude herb: two to six grams per day

• Tea: one cup two to four times per day

• 1:5 Tincture: 30-60 drops two to three times per day

Dandelion’s long milky taproot is well known to gardeners, who waste countless hours trying to eradicate it from their lawns. I have a clear memory of an elderly neighbor painstakingly removing dandelion roots and chickweed from his lawn, while suffering from health conditions that could have been treated with both herbs.

Dandelion is receiving a bit less press than it used to, due to the publicity surrounding newer and more glamorous herbs. It has a worldwide reputation among traditional healers for its beneficial and safe effects on the liver, and its gentle nature allows it to be used safely over long periods of time. Most people are familiar with dandelion, and we know its leaves make a fine, mildly bitter salad green, delicious when tossed with sea salt, lemon juice and olive oil. Dandelion is rich in minerals like iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, boron and vitamins A, B, and C. It contains up to 25% inulin, a phyto-chemical also found in high levels in burdock root and echinacea. It seems to selectively nourish and increase the body’s supply of favorable intestinal bacteria such as bifidobacteria (Rao, 1999). Other components of the herb, including triperpeoid saponins, have been found to stimulate macrophage activity in animals and prevent tumor growth (Takasaki et al., 1999).

In the 1898 classic King’s American Dispensatory Felter and Lloyd tell us, "Dandelion has long been supposed to exert an influence on the biliary organs, removing torpor and engorgement of the liver as well as of the spleen...(and is useful for) chronic diseases of the skin and impairment of the digestive functions.” Because it gently improves bile flow, many people find it useful as a mild laxative. I’ve used it myself for this purpose. Its bitter components stimulate the nerves in the stomach to secrete more acid, gently stimulating appetite and improving nutrient absorption. Improvement in the clearance of bile has a general anti-inflammatory action, and this is most likely responsible for its reputation for improving skin disorders.

Professor Weiss, author of the standard German medical school textbook on herbal medicine, tells us that scientists in his country have reported the definitive value of regular use of dandelion in preventing the formation of gallstones (Weiss, 1988). I usually have my patients drink one or two cups of dandelion tea per day (teabags are widely available) when they have existing gallstones and want to avoid surgery. This often puts them into a latent, symptom-free stage of the disease. 

Dandelion is also known by Western herbalists to be a valuable non-irritating diuretic. Because it is rich in potassium, a vital mineral often lost when the kidneys are over-stimulated by drugs, it can be used safely to treat water retention even when caused by weakness of the heart. The leaf is more effective than the root as a diuretic, and at our clinic we use it as a safer alternative to the popular diuretic Lasix. Check with your doctor before making this substitution. TCM doctors value dandelion highly, using it to reduce fire in the liver, especially when accompanied by red, swollen eyes. They also use it for detoxification, hepatitis, acute infections, flu, and skin ulcers. TAM doctors consider it to be an anti-poison. They use it for dysentery, fevers and vomiting.

DANG GUI ROOT

Latin: Angelica sinensis

Chinese: Dang gui

English: Dong quai Tang kuei

WHAT IT DOES: Dang gui root is sweet, pungent and bitter in taste, and warming in action. It nourishes the female essence, tonifies blood, helps form healthy new blood, and catalyzes circulation (moves the blood).

RATING: Gold/Silver, due to minor limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Do not use during pregnancy without consulting a qualified medical practitioner. Do not use with heavy menstrual bleeding. Do not use if taking bloodthinning medications such as Coumadin. (Lo et al., 1995).

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Dried root: two to four grams two to three times per day

• 4:1 dried decoction: one to two grams two times per day

• 1:5 tincture: 30-60 drops in water or juice two to three times per day

The first thing you may notice when you encounter dang gui root is its strong but pleasant musky odor. According to Chinese theory, this odor indicates that the herb will not only nourish, but will also disperse the blood through the body, penetrating the tissues and making the skin glow, the hair luxuriant, and the mind serene (qualities seen in young women in their prime). Similar effects are reported for shatavari , the Ayurvedic wild asparagus root, which also has a strong musky odor. Dang gui root is among the most important of Chinese blood tonics, perhaps sharing the stage only with shou wu root. Dang gui root is used to treat dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, female infertility, anemia, tinnitus, hair loss, blurred vision and heart palpitations. Dang gui, as part of the blood-moving group(see chapter 9) can be used for a wide variety of complaints. For example, at our clinic we were able to slow progression of severe lung fibrosis in one elderly patient for about two years.

Though dang gui is not estrogenic, it has a similar effect, binding to estrogen receptors in women (Fackelmann, 1998). Western analysis might therefore say it would be useful for treating hot flashes and menopausal symptoms. However, TCM analysis points out that the root’s warming action would make it a poor choice unless combined with other appropriate cooling herbs. At our clinic we only use it in menopausal patients with blood deficiency. There are concerns about adulteration of this herb with related species, so try to purchase only from reliable and knowledgeable dealers.

Research highlights

• Pharmacological studies done on dang gui's reputed blood-forming properties show that its polysaccharides could "could obviously promote the proliferation and differentiation" of various blood components, including blood growth factors (Wang et al., 1998). 

• Dang gui root in animal models could also correct experimental atrial fibrillation induced by drugs (Chang and But, 1987).

• Combining astragalus root with dang gui root is a very potent method of improving blood parameters. A 1993 study showed the abiltiy of this combination to improve all measured blood indexes (Xue et al., 1993).

• In an amazing study, Chinese patients with ABO- and Rh- incompatible blood types were given tablets of a blood-moving formula containing dang gui root, leonorus (yi mu cao / Leonorus heterophyllus), white peony root, banksia rose (Rosa banksia), and cnidium rhizome (Chuan xiong / Ligusticum wallichii). The preventative treatment significantly lowered the mortality rate in cases of Rh-type incompatibility (Bian et al., 1998). This study has not been replicated.

• In one study, the blood moving qualities of both dang gui root and cnidium rhizome proved strong enough to prevent the formation of abnormal fibrous tissue in animal models of pulmonary fibrosis (Dai et al., 1996).

DEER ANTLER

Latin: Cervus spp.

Chinese: Lu rong

WHAT IT DOES: Deer antler is sweet and salty in taste and very warming in action. It tonifies and stimulates deficient Yang metabolic energy, increases sex drive and strengthens the heart, bones, and blood. It increases the ability to work.

RATING: Yellow, due to highly stimulating nature SAFETY ISSUES: Use cautiously with cases of severe emaciation and dryness

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Velvet or tip of antler: 500 mg one to three times per day. Start with low dosage and increase slowly.

TCM doctors use the velvet and tip of young deer antler to treat fatigue, coldness, cold hands and feet, tinnitus, male impotence, hypothyroidism, and general metabolic weakness. It strengthens the tendons and bones, making it an effective treatment for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. The Chinese believe that the tip of the antler contains the most nutrients so it commands the highest price. It nourishes the bone marrow, stimulates red blood cell production and increases cardiac energy output. It also speeds the bone healing. We use it frequently in our clinic to strengthen cancer patients who have been weakened by chemotherapy or radiation.

Deer antlers are amazing structures. They demonstrate the incredible metabolic energy of these animals. Everyone knows that strong fingernail growth is a sign of good health, but consider the rapid annual growth of these bony structures, covered with living velvet and enriched by large blood vessels and nerves. The antlers of species such as the red deer develop each year in about 150 days, during early spring and summer. This is a tremendous metabolic achievement.

Research highlights

• Androgen hormones are substances that stimulate male sex organ function. These hormones and various growth factors are factors in deer antler formation (Li et al., 1999; Francis and Suttie, 1998).

• As deer antlers grow, supportive nerves must grow in tandem, at a rapid rate of up to 1 cm per day. This growth rate is related to the presence of neural and other growth factors (Garcia et al., 1997; Suttie et al., 1993, Suttie et al., 1995). This indicates that deer antlers may be beneficial in nerve regeneration.

• Chinese studies report that deer antler speeds healing of fractured bones, strengthens heart output in patients with severe fatigue (at moderate, not high dosage), and stimulates production of reticulocytes (young new red blood cells) and hemoglobin (reported inYeung, 1983).

ECLIPTA

Latin: Eclipta alba Eclipta prostrata

Sanskrit: Bhringaraja (alba) Chinese: Han lian cao (prostrata)

WHAT IT DOES: Eclipta is cooling in action. Ayurvedic eclipta (bhringaraja) is bitter in taste, while Chinese eclipta (han lian cao) is sweet and sour in taste. Both reduce inflammation, obstructive swelling and pain from the liver and blood. They also calm stress and nourish the hair roots.

RATING: yellow, due to limited applications.

SAFETY ISSUES: None known.

STARTING DOSAGE: dried powder, dried decoction or fresh leaf juice

• Dried powder: two grams two times per day

• 4:1 dried decoction: 500 mg two times per day

• Fresh leaf juice: one to two teaspoons three times per day

Two distinct species of eclipta are differentiated by my Ayurvedic teacher in Nepal, one with white flowers, and one with yellow flowers (Bajracharya, 1979). TAM doctors use eclipta to treat liver cirrhosis, infectious hepatitis, and liver and spleen enlargement. They boil the leaf juice with sesame or coconut oil and apply it topically, both to retard graying of the hair and to make the hair more luxuriant. Doctors in Nepal use eclipta drops dissolved in sesame oil to treat sinusitis, migraine headache, and inflammation of the eye, nose, and ears.

TCM doctors use a similar species (milder in taste) internally to treat dizziness, blurred vision, vertigo and premature graying of hair, especially in cases of Yin deficiency. The simple combination of ligustrum fruit (nu shen zi / Ligustrum lucidum) and eclipta is a well-known and effective Yin tonic.

In 1996, I created a treatment by adding Ayurvedic eclipta to some of the standard TCM herbs for hair loss. I soon had a regular clientele of men and women using the formula. After an average of three months of use (it takes time to grow hair), they reported better results than we had previously experienced with the TCM formula alone. I remember in particular a young African-American woman who was so ashamed of her severe hair loss (complete with bald patches) that she wore a cap at all times. After a year or so she came back to show me her lush hair, all in beautiful braids.

Research highlights

• In one study, topical application of fresh eclipta leaf juice mixed with neem oil reportedly stimulated hair growth, and in some cases changed gray hair to black (Chandra K, 1985).

• Seven pharmacological and histological animal studies reported in India by the Central Council for Research on Ayurveda and Siddha have shown strong protective effects on the liver. Histopathlogical studies showed significant reduction in elevated liver enzymes and alkaline phosphate, and healing of liver tissues, within four weeks following chemical insults (reported in Pandey, 1996).

• The liver protective effects of eclipta (alba) seem to result from its ability to regulate levels of drug metabolizing enzymes in the liver (Saxena et al., 1993).

• Researchers have also reported a calming hypotensive effect (reported in Pandey, 1996, Gupta, 1976), as well as anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity (reported in Pandey, 1996).

• Additionally, eclipta (prostrata) and some of its constituents were shown in animal experiments to neutralize toxicity and bleeding caused by snake venom and mushroom toxins (Melo et al., 1994, (Mors, 1991).

For those of you out there who could use a little help with dull, thinning or graying hair, here is my formula. Using 4:1 concentrated dried decoction extract powders, combine: 2 parts eclipta, and 2 parts sho wu root. 1 part each of cooked rehmannia root;raw rehmannia root dang gui root; salvia root; schisandra berries; codonopsis root (dang shen root or C. pilosula); mu gua fruit (Chaenomelis lagenaria); and chiang huo rhizome (Notopterygium incisum). Dose: 2 grams twice a day. If the patient has poor circulation and coldness, we add 1 part deer antler. 

ELDERBERRY

Latin: Sambucus species

WHAT IT DOES: Elderberry fruit is sour in taste and cooling in action. Elderberry flower is pungent and bitter in taste, and has similar activity to the fruit. Elderberry reduces heat and inflammation, and strengthens the immune system to fight viral infections, including influenza.

RATING: Gold

SAFETY ISSUES: None known. Unripe fruits may cause nausea.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Dried berry or flower (ground): two to four grams two to three times per day

• 1:5 tincture:

35-60 drops three to five times per day for healing

40-60 drops once per day for prevention

Elderberry extracts or tinctures are used around the world to enhance immune function and increases antibody response during infections. Due to high concentrations of lignans and flavonoids, the berries have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory activity (Yesilada, 1977). They work extremely well in the treatment of influenza, and can also be used to treat upper respiratory tract infections including sinusitis and sore throat. Commercial extracts are now available, and most of them are sweetened sufficiently to please the children, a problem with bitter alternatives. I often use elderberry tinctures in children, often in combination with echinacea tinctures. I add ground elderberries to powdered formulas as a pleasant boost to otherwise bitter-tasting herbs whenever there is a need to strengthen immunity.

Research highlights

• A report from Israel on the Sambucus nigra species of elderberry concluded, "Considering the efficacy of the extract in vitro on all strains of influenza virus tested, as well as the clinical results, low cost, and absence of side-effects, this preparation could offer a possibility for safe treatment for influenza A and B" (Zakay-Rones et al., 1995).

EPHEDRA

Latin: Ephedra sinica

Chinese: Ma huang

WHAT IT DOES: Ephedra is pungent and slightly bitter in taste, and warming in action. It relaxes the muscles surrounding the lungs, dilates the surfaces vessels of the skin and increases metabolism.

RATING: Red, due to high potential for misuse

SAFETY ISSUES: Use only under professional medical guidance. Do not use long term. Do not use during pregnancy or nursing. Do not exceed recommended dosage. Do not use with MAO-inhibiting drugs, blood pressure lowering drugs, steroids, betablockers or anti-depressants. Do not use if you have glaucoma, hypertension, heart disease, insomnia, cardiac asthma, adrenal weakness, prostate enlargement, arteriosclerosis, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, anorexia or bulimia, kidney disease or a history of kidney stones. Do not use as a weight-loss agent unless under medical supervision.

Symptoms of ephedra overdose include rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, nervousness, insomnia and sweating. Discontinue immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

STARTING DOSAGE: Adults

• Total alkaloids: 15-30 mg per dose, not to exceed 300 mg per day

• Crude herb: no more than 1.5-9 grams per day in divided doses as a tea Children

• Total alkaloids: 0.5 mg per dose per weight kilogram, not to exceed 2.0 mg per kilogram per day

Note: total alkaloids in crude herb can be as high as 3.3%

Ephedra (ma huang) is a very useful herb that the Chinese use to disperse coldness, open the pores and promote perspiration, which can be helpful in treating chills, fever and headache. It also controls wheezing and relaxes the muscles around the lungs, which explains its wide use as a treatment for asthma and cough. This plant contains ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, powerful alkaloids found in many over-the-counter asthma medications (ephedrine) and nasal decongestants (pseudoephedrine). These components also stimulate the central nervous system. If you have high blood pressure, ephedra can be deadly. TCM doctors do not generally consider ephedra to be dangerous, but they prescribe the whole plant, not the extracted alkaloids, to patients with specific symptoms, and usually as only 10% of a prescription. Ephedra is an essential herb of TCM that simply is not prescribed when there are signs of heat or hypertension.

It is possible for healthy people to safely use products containing ephedra when consumed in moderate amounts, and many people taking over-the-counter hay fever remedies do so with little or no trouble. Unfortunately, ephedra is now sold as a stimulant and a weight-loss product for its metabolism-stimulating and appetitesuppressing properties. Many people who are overweight also have hypertension—just imagine how dangerous ephedra can be in these particular cases. That’s not to say the herb doesn’t work for weight loss. In fact it does, and the result is even more powerful when combined with green tea, due to the additional action of caffeine. The combination of these two types of stimulants can be especially powerful. But again, this should be done under the guidance of a professional with experience about safety and dosage. Asthma and weight loss are both complex, serious problems. You can’t treat them safely just by swallowing over-the-counter herbal pills.

Research highlights

• When used over time, ephedra can weaken the adrenal glands. Michael Murray N.D., faculty member at the John Bastyr Naturopathic Univeristy and best-selling author, recommends combining it with adrenal supportive herbs such as licorice root, ginseng root and nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, B-6 and pantothenic acid (Murray, 1991).

• There continue to be numerous reports of ephedrine-related toxicity and death. In a random study of nine commercially available supplements, only three contained the ephedrine content listed on the label, and the alkaloid content ranged from 1.08-13.54 mg. per pill. There were also significant variations among different lots of the same product (Gurley et al., 1998). In a second study, the same researcher concluded that ephedra toxicity "results from accidental overdose often prompted by exaggerated off-label claims and a belief that 'natural' medicinal agents are inherently safe” (Gurley et al., 1998).

• Ephedra exhibits anti-inflammatory activity (Ling et al., 1995) which may enhance its usefulness for treating asthma.

• In the Canadian Forces Warrior Test, the combination of caffeine and ephedrine improved performance. Doses tested were 375 mg of caffeine and 75 mg of ephedrine, within safe levels for healthy subjects (Bell and Jacobs, 1999).

• In a study of obese monkeys, the combination of caffeine and ephedrine caused an increase in energy expenditure, a decrease in food intake, and weight loss (Ramsey et al., 1998).

• Although unsupervised use of ephedra or ephedrine can be dangerous, researchers conducted a controlled double-blind study on 136 obese and normal patients undergoing proper treatment with blood pressure lowering drugs as they attempted to lose weight. Subjects took 20 mg of ephedrine and 20 mg of caffeine. All groups lost weight, and the combination of ephedrine and caffeine did not reverse the effects of the blood pressure medications (Svendsen et al., 1998). An earlier clinical trial also found that ephedrine plus caffeine was as effective as dexfenfluramine (Astrup et al., 1995).

• A Harvard Medical School study found that the combination of ephedrine, caffeine and aspirin was "well tolerated in otherwise healthy obese subjects, and supports modest, sustained weight loss even without prescribed caloric restriction (dieting)” (Daly et al., 1993).

EPIMEDIUM HERB

Latin: Epimedium grandiflorum E. species

Chinese: Yin yang huo

English: Horny goat weed

WHAT IT DOES: Epimedium herb is pungent and sweet in taste, and warming in action. It increases sperm production and motility, increases sex drive and fertility, enhances metabolism and strengthens the bones.

RATING: Yellow, due to limitations in use.

SAFETY ISSUES: Not for long-term use, which may induce vomiting and dizziness in some people due to warming effects.

STARTING DOSAGE: dried powder or concentrated powder extract

• Dried powder: three to12 grams per day

• 4:1 concentrated powder: one to three grams per day

The Chinese name for epimedium herb (yin yang huo, or horny goat weed) derives from folklore accounts that originated in the northern plains of China. It seems that goats in this region that grazed on this weed would--how can I say this gently--experience increased emissions spilling onto the grass. Farmers tend to notice this sort of thing. Recently, I've heard rumors that this herb is gaining increasing popularity in Hollywood, as one might expect. We use it as a frequent addition to formulas for treating impotence, low sex drive and frequent urination. It works for both men and women. It is also useful for hypothyroid conditions. The concentrated powder can be dissolved in wine.

Research highlights

• Pharmacological and animal studies in China indicate that epimedium increases sperm production, increases sexual desire, and stimulates the sensory nerves. It also increases mating behavior in animals (reported in Yeung, 1983; reported in Bensky and Gamble, 1993; Dong et al., 1994; Kuang et al., 1989).

• Epimedium extracts (polysaccharides and glycosides) stimulate the immune system and have shown the ability to reverse suppressed immunity in animal models and clinical trials on humans. The glycosides increase coronary flow, reduce blood pressure slightly, and exhibit liver-protective effects (reported in Huang, 1999, Lee et al., 1995).

• In a study of rats with kidney disease, epimedium reduced the level of BUN and serum creatinine (Cheng et al., 1994).

• Epimedium decoction proved very effective in a controlled trial on patients with chronic kidney failure who required hemodialysis. The herb increased their sexual drive significantly and improved their immune function, as well as the overall quality of the patients’ lives (Liao, 1995).

• Researchers have tested epimedium in vitro and in vivo for its effects on osteoporosis. In the test tube, it improves bone resorption (by osteoclasts), and in rats it increases mineral content and promotes bone formation (Yu et al., 1999).

• In a study on rats, water extract of epimedium reversed the side effects of long-term use of steroids, reducing adrenal atrophy and bone loss (Wu et al., 1996).

FENNEL SEED

Latin: Foeniculum vulgare

Sanskrit: Mahdurika

Chinese: Xiao hui xiang

WHAT IT DOES: Fennel seed is sweet in taste, carminative and aromatic. It strengthens the digestion, freshens the breath, reduces gas and relieves lower abdominal pain.

RATING: Silver, due to mild action

SAFETY ISSUES: None known

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Seed: one to two grams, two to three times per day

TCM doctors find fennel seed useful for relieving menstrual and lower abdominal pain. TAM doctors use it to strengthen digestion, which is helpful in the treatment of dysentery, colitis and flatus. Fennel seeds should be kept in every kitchen, and used according to the Indian custom of chewing a small handful of them after meals to aid digestion and freshen breath.

Try this if you want to impress your date when dining out. After the meal, rinse your mouth out with water three times. This will dilute the bacteria in your mouth enough to prevent tooth decay when you can’t brush your teeth. Then chew some fennel seeds to freshen your breath and reduce post-meal flatulence. If you really want to go wild, carry a tiny vial of rose water and slap some onto your hands and face for a clean, fresh scent!

FEVERFEW

Latin: Tanacetum parthenium

WHAT IT DOES: Feverfew is sweet and slightly bitter in taste, and slightly cold in action. It reduces heat and inflammation and prevents headaches and dizziness.

RATING: yellow, due to minor limitations in usage

SAFETY ISSUES: Should not be used during pregnancy, as it is a uterine stimulant. Occasional minor side effects such as mouth and gastric disturbance have been reported (reported in McGuffin et al., 1997). Some scientists voice concerns about potential allergic reactions or cross-reactivity with blood thinning agents such as Warfarin and Ticlopidine (Barsby et al., 1993, DeSmet, 1993).

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Standardized capsules (600 mcg. parthenolide): one to three capsules per day

Feverfew is now well-known as a reliable remedy for migraine headaches. It also has a long historical record for use against arthritis and other forms of arthritis. It prevents release of inflammatory chemicals from white blood cells and platelets, which makes it useful for rheumatoid arthritis. Large differences have been found in various commercial preparations, and there are concerns about processing methods, so be sure to purchase feverfew from a reliable supplier (Barsby et al., 1993, Brown et al., 1997)

Research highlights

• Researchers assessed the ability of feverfew to prevent migraine in a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled crossover study using 60 patients. They found a reduction in the mean number and severity of attacks in each two-month period of the study, although the duration of individual attacks was unchanged. They also reported a reduction in the degree of vomiting There were no serious side-effects (Murphy. et al., 1988). A previous study of 17 patients reported similar results (Johnson et al., 1985).

• Many studies have shown feverfew to be effective for easing migraines (Volger et al., 1998).

FLAXSEED OIL

Latin: Linum usitatissimum

Sanskrit: Atasi

WHAT IT DOES: Flaxseed oil is sweet and sour in taste and warming in action. It nourishes and moistens

cell membranes and reduces inflammation.

RATING: Gold

SAFETY ISSUES: None known. Whole seeds should be taken with sufficient fluids.

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Oil: one tablespoon per day

• Capsule: quantity equivalent to one tablespoon of oil per day

Flaxseed oil is nature's richest vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids, absolutely essential nutrients found insufficiently in most people's diets. Flaxseed oil helps the body produce hormones, energy and moisture, while simultaneously slowing biochemical pathways that lead to inflammation. These oils end up in the membranes surrounding every cell in the body. This is why it is found in many, many natural medicine protocols.

Ayurvedic doctors use flaxseed oil in the form of cooking oil for treatment of urinary diseases, and also as a massage oil to calm the nerves, or Vata. I use it whenever I see signs of dryness, inflammation and fatigue pointing to a dietary-caused omega-3 deficiency. Some patients do better with fish oils, which are easier for the body to incorporate into the membranes, or with evening primrose oil, which seems to work better with diabetics (Murray, 1996). Some authorities suggest grinding fresh flaxseed to ensure purity and quality.

Research highlights

• Dietary flaxseed has been shown to help lower HDL cholesterol levels (Jenkins et al., 1999).

• There is some evidence that lignans in the oil may be active in cancer prevention (Nesbitt et al., 1997).

GARLIC BULB

Latin: Allium sativum

Sanskrit: Lasunam

Chinese: Da suan

WHAT IT DOES: Garlic bulb is pungent in taste, and warming in action. It penetrates deeply into the system to protect the internal organs and vessels against infection and blockage. It moves the blood, and aids in the digestion of fats and oils.

RATING: Gold

SAFETY ISSUES: Use cautiously with sensitive stomach or gastrointestinal inflammation. May cause skin inflammation in some individuals. Check with your doctor if taking blood-thinning medications and using garlic in large daily amounts

STARTING DOSAGE:

• Raw or cooked herb: one medium-size bulb two to three times per day.

Garlic bulb is one of the most effective antimicrobial herbs, with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. It acts on respiratory infections such as chronic bronchitis, respiratory catarrh and recurrent colds and flu, and is a powerful preventative for these conditions as well as for digestive infections. Garlic lowers blood pressure and blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, prevents arteriosclerosis and acts as a tonic on the cardiovascular system (Steiner et al., 1998). It also strengthens the immune system and has anti-cancer effects, causing lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine release, NK activity and phagocytosis in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Aged garlic may be superior to the fresh herb in these aspects (Sumiyoshi, 1997). Ayurvedic doctors point out that excessive use can over-balance Pitta energy, causing inflammation. TCM doctors report that garlic is useful for increasing sexual energy and combating simple impotence, and to kill parasites such as hookworms and pinworms. It relieves intestinal toxicity, and is used to treat diarrhea and dysentery caused by poor digestion or worms. It can be mixed with sesame oil and applied topically to the skin to reduce toxic swelling or fungal infections, or to the ear for fungal infections (Pai and Platt, 1995), but remember that too strong a preparation may burn the skin.

Research highlights

• Thousands of years ago, TAM doctors reported garlic useful for combating worms, skin diseases, insanity, epilepsy, and abdominal and gastric tumors. Scientists at the National Cancer Institute confirmed the latter use when they reported that "infection with H. pylori is a risk factor, and garlic may be protective in the development and progression of advanced precancerous gastric lesions" (You et al., 1998).

• Pharmacological and animal experiments show that garlic bulb and aged garlic extracts have anti-allergy effects (Kyo E et al., 1997), reduce intracellular oxidative stress (Ide and Lau, 1999), antitumor activities (Kyo E et al., 1998, Lamm & Riggs, 2000, Lau BH et al., 1991), lower blood pressure et al., 1998), strenghten immune response (Salman H et al., 1999, Gao YM et al., 1993), cancer preventive action (Tang Z et al., 1997), and lower cholesterol (Morcos NC. 1997).

By now everybody knows about garlic’s medicinal powers. However, I am amazed that a multi-billion dollar industry has grown out of concerns about the social effects of the odor. The odor is actually the release of volatile sulfur compounds through the lungs into the air. This is why it is very effective for treating chronic lung infections. I mean, the stuff makes people go away, what do you think it does to germs? I tell patients to use garlic pills if necessary, but to use the real thing whenever possible.

The Chinese add garlic, onion or ginger to oils before cooking meats to reduce toxicity, perhaps because the anti-oxidants in these and other spices slow the degradation of oils during the cooking process.