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Part 1 of this article focused on immunomodulating herbal adjuncts to chemotherapy treatment. Part 2 highlights herbal therapies for specific adverse side effects, including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, mucositis, neuropathy, and organ damage. Various herbal formulas are examined, including Liù Jūn Zǐ Tāng (Six Gentlemen Decoction, rikkunshi-tō), Niú Chē Shèn Qì Wán (Life Preserving Kidney Qi Pill, goshajinkigan), Guilongtongluofang, Sháo yào gān cǎo tāng (Peony and Licorice Decoction, shakuyaku-kanzo-tō), and others. Individual herbs examined in depth include Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Cannabis sativa (cannabis), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Plantago spp. (plantain), Glycyrrhiza spp. (licorice), Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile), Mentha x piperita (peppermint), Rhodiola rosea (rose root), Rhodiola algida (Tibetan rose root), Annona muricata (soursop), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), capsaicin, honey, and Taiwanofungus camphoratus (stout camphor fungus). The findings discussed in this paper present promising results for herbal therapeutic remedies to treat the diverse adverse side effects affecting quality of life associated with cancer treatment effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunomodulating herbs that have been studied in patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer are reviewed in depth. Trametes versicolor (turkey tail, yún zhī) mushroom, formerly known as Coriolus versicolor, Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus, huáng qí) root, Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng, rén shēn) root, and Viscum album (European mistletoe) injectable extracts are reviewed in depth. These represent the four best-studied natural herbal immune adjuncts to chemotherapy. Various reports of these agents' abilities to reduce adverse effects and improve survival in cancer patients are discussed in depth. Other less well studied herbal immunomodulators are also mentioned more briefly. Part 2 of this article will focus on herbal therapies for other specific adverse effects of chemotherapy such as nausea, mucositis, neuropathies, and organ damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines have a long history of use for treating people with seizure disorders. Here, some of this history as well as modern scientific research on the utility of these herbs is discussed in detail, after touching on the use of a ketogenic diet to control seizures. Nigella sativa (black cumin) and Cannabis sativa (cannabis) are discussed as two of the best documented anticonvulsant herbs. The use of the traditional Asian herbal formulas xiǎo chái hú tāng (shosaiko-tō, Minor Bupleurum Decoction), chái hú guì zhī tāng (saiko-keishi-tō, Bupleurum and Cinnamon Decoction), and shosaiko-tō-go-keishikashakuyaku-tō (Cinnamon Twig Decoction with Peony) for epilepsy is reviewed in depth. More speculatively, a range of nervine and nootropic herbs that may have use in seizure disorders, including Scutellaria lateriflora (skullcap), Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Valeriana spp. (valerian), Ziziphus jujuba (jujube, dà zǎo), Acorus calamus (sweetflag), and Centella asiatica (gotu kola), is discussed. Drug–herb interactions with anti-seizure medications are reviewed, with a focus on silymarin, Camellia sinensis (green tea), Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort), Citrus x paradisi (grapefruit), and Piper spp. (black and long pepper). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicine has a major therapeutic role in patients with upper digestive overgrowth of flora (UDOF), often incompletely called small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Here, the use of herbs with various types of effects on gut motility are reviewed, along with their known antimicrobial effects relevant to UDOF. Bitter and pungent herbs that stimulate gut motility (“prokinetics”) are crucial in UDOF patients with slow transit time. Berberine-containing herbs such as Berberis aquifolium (Oregon grape) and Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal), as well as various members of the genus Artemisia, including but not limited to Artemisia annua (sweet Annie) and Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), are particularly reviewed, as antimicrobial bitters useful for many UDOF patients. The steam-distilled volatile oils of carminative herbs, which are antimicrobial and actually inhibit overactive gut motility and thus are most useful in patients with diarrhea and cramping, are also discussed at length. Mentha x piperita (peppermint), Melissa officinalis (lemonbalm), Coriandrum sativum (coriander), and Pimpinella anisum (anise) are all reviewed in particular. A combination formula containing bitters and carminatives is reviewed. The safety of these herbs with various antibiotics used to treat UDOF is discussed, along with the use of partially hydrolyzed guar gum as an adjunct to rifaximin therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nootropic herbs can be very helpful in people with attention-deficient/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Two herbs both called brahmi in the Ayurvedic tradition, Bacopa monnieri (bacopa) and Centella asiatica (gotu kola), as well as formulas featuring these herbs, are discussed in great depth for this purpose. Additional general nootropic herbs discussed are Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) and Acorus calamus (sweetflag), including both American and Eurasian varieties. Nootropic herbs from the Lamiaceae (mint) family with a focus on Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) and various species of Salvia (sage) are also reviewed. The general failure of nervine herbs such as Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) and Valeriana officinalis (valerian) for ADHD is highlighted, giving further impetus for the need to focus on nootropic herbs instead. The safety and clinical use of all relevant herbs is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The many herbal options for patients with anxiety are discussed, focusing initially on Piper methysticum (kava) as one of the most well-researched options in this setting. The unstudied, but clinically as effective (and much more palatable), Pedicularis spp. (lousewort) are also discussed. Other nervine herbs including Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender), L. latifolia (spike or Portuguese lavender), Lavandula x intermedia (lavandin, Dutch lavender), L. stoechas (Spanish lavender), Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile), and Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) are reviewed (and a table of other nervines is provided). Three formulas, including mixtures of nervines, Ze 185, Euphytose, and Yì Qì Yǎng Xīn (Replenish Qi and Nourish the Heart), are discussed. Miscellaneous anxiolytics such as Crocus sativus (saffron), L-theanine from Camellia sinensis (green tea), and the three calming adaptogens Rhodiola rosea (roseroot), Centella asiatica (gotu kola), and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) are then detailed. Herbal anxiolytics offer great promise to relieve anxiety safely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines have long been used to treat and prevent viral respiratory infections (VRI). Here, a broad survey of these herbs is provided. The effects and benefits of a wide array of antiviral herbs are discussed in depth. The benefit of most of these herbs having built-in immune-stimulating and inflammation-modulating effects means that they can help prevent immune overreaction ('cytokine storm') to VRI while still helping the immune system cope better with the infections. The scientific basis supporting these contentions are discussed. Major herbs with clinical trial evidence that they help resolve VRI reviewed in detail include Sambucus nigra (black elder) fruit, BNO 1016 (Sinupret®) formula, Andrographis paniculata (kalmegh), Pelargonium sidoides (African geranium), má huáng tāng (maō-tō, ephedra decoction), and antiwei formula. The failure of research on Echinacea angustifolia (narrow-leaved purple coneflower), particularly by using far too low of doses, is reviewed. An individualized approach to formulating for VRI patients is presented, followed by a review of the evidence that various herbs, notably Panax ginseng (Asian red ginseng), Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), Camellia sinensis (green tea), and Allium sativum (garlic), can prevent VRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide range of herbs for pain conditions are discussed, with detailed information on their safe clinical application. Aconitum spp. (aconite, fū zǐ) and a formula featuring it, Gosha-jinki-gan (Niú Chē Shèn Qì Wán), are particularly good examples of powerful analgesics that are far too little used in North American prescribing. The global use of various species of aconite is particularly compelling. However, this herb should only be recommended by experienced clinicians (as with most of the other herbs discussed herein). Similarly, Clematis spp. (clematis, virgin's bower) and Anemone spp. (pasque flower) of various types are used for pain around the world. Actaea racemosa (black cohosh) is yet another analgesic from the Ranunculaceae family (along with aconite, clematis, and pasque flower). Corydalis yanhusuo (corydalis, yán hú suǒ) and its American cousin Corydalis aurea (golden smoke) are opium family plants discussed for pain relief. Other diverse analgesic herbs discussed include Bryonia alba (white bryony), Bryonia cretica ssp. dioica (Cretan or red bryony), capsaicin, and Cannabis sativa (cannabis, marijuana). Finally, herbs that both relax skeletal muscle and reduce pain are described, including Piper methysticum (kava), Pedicularis bracteosa (bracted lousewort), Stachys officinalis and Stachys betonica (wood betony), and Lobelia inflata (lobelia). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many herbs and herbal formulas are effective for migraine sufferers, both as acute treatment and for prevention, particularly when coupled with the identification and elimination of migraine triggers. The natural products discussed here include Zingiber officinale (ginger) for migraine treatment and Cannabis sativa (cannabis), intranasal Capsicum annuum (cayenne), and Lavandula stoechas (Spanish lavender) volatile oil for treatment and prevention. The many agents discussed for migraine prevention primarily include Petasites hybridus (butterbur) root, Curcuma longa (turmeric)+fish oil, Citrus medica (citron) fruit, Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew), Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew)+ Salix alba (white willow), Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo), and Lippia alba (bushy matgrass), though the latter three have little published evidence of efficacy. The Chinese herbal formulas Zhèng Tiān Wán (Rectify Heaven Pill) and Wú Zhū Yú Tāng (Evodia Decoction, goshuyutō) have fairly strong evidence supporting their efficacy for migraine prophylaxis. Dosing and safety information are provided for all herbs discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous herbs have been studied in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Here, use of many of these, including Oenothera biennis (evening primrose), Ribes nigra (blackcurrant), and Borago officinalis (borage) seed oils, Harpagophytum procumbens, and to a lesser extent H. zeyheri (African devil's club), Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) herb, Populus tremula (European aspen), Solidago virgaurea (goldenrod), Fraxinus excelsior (European ash), Salix spp. (willow), Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh), Smilax spp. (sarsaparilla), and Guaiacum officinale (lignum vitae), alone and in various formulations, are discussed. Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), Boswellia serrata (frankincense), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Nigella sativa (black cumin), Tinospora cordifolia (guduchi), Tribulus terrestris (caltrop vine, gokshura), Sān Miào Săn (Three Wonder Powder), Capsicum frutescens (cayenne), Allium sativum (garlic), Paeonia lactiflora (white peony), Clematis mandshurica (clematis, wshuricahura), Trichosanthes kirilowii (trichosanthes, guowiia), Sān Miào Prunella vulgaris (heal-all), and san huang wu ji formula are also discussed in depth. The article ends with a discussion of the unusual immunosuppressive herb Tripterygium wilfordii (thunder duke vine). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines show much promise for helping patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Nǎo Xīn Tōng Náng (Brain and Heart Connected Capsule) formula with aspirin, lumbrokinase, and nattokinase are all natural anticoagulants, with varying degrees of evidence supporting their use or potential use in AF patients. The modern Chinese herbal formula Wen Xin Ke Li looks promising for maintaining sinus rhythm in paroxysmal AF patients, as does Shēn Sōng Yǎng Xīn Capsule. Anti-arrhythmic herbs, both for heart rate and for heart rhythm control (as well as preventing paroxysmal AF from recurring), generally used historically and not studied in clinical trials but with substantial supporting preclinical information on their actions, include Leonurus cardiaca (motherwort), L. japonicus (Chinese motherwort), Lycopus virginicus (sweet bugleweed) and related species, Corydalis yanhusuo (Chinese corydalis, yán hú suǒ), Stephania tetrandra (fěn fáng jǐ, hàn fáng jǐ, stephania), Rauvolfia serpentina (Indian snakeroot, rauwfolia), Crataegus spp (hawthorn), and Cinchona spp. (Peruvian bark). The isolated herbal alkaloids berberine and tetrahydropalmatine have shown promise for AF or related conditions. Further research is needed to determine the full potential of these herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three immunomodulating herbs are used as examples of the complex interaction of herbs and T helper lymphocyte subsets: Astragalus penduliflorus (often called A. membranaceus, astragalus, or húang qí), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and Glycyrrhiza uralensis (gān cǎo, Asian licorice), and Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). Though a surface review of studies might suggest all of these are simple Th1 inducers and should thus aggravate Th1-dominant diseases, the clinical and preclinical evidence in fact show they are helpful in these and Th2-dominant conditions. This relates to the fact that they also affect Th17 and T regulatory subsets, as well as having many other actions (e.g., modulating inflammation) that are also beneficial. Immunomodulating herbs appear to be helpful in both Th1- and Th2-dominant conditions as a result, which fits with their traditional use. Claims to the contrary simply do not fit the available evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concern has been raised about the effects of phytoestrogenic plants and plant extracts on estrogen-sensitive cancers, largely based on in vitro and animal research. Soy ( Glycine max) and other legumes and their isoflavones, notably genistein and daidzein, are the plants and constituents most studied, including the potential importance of metabolism of these isoflavones by gut flora to equol and its cogeners. Flax ( Linum usitatissimum) and its lignans, notably secoisolariciresinol, is also discussed. Essentially, all existing epidemiologic and clinical trial research shows either benefit or absence of harm from these compounds, with some subtleties about dose and equol or enterolactone formation potentially being important. This paper will review the human research and discuss why it is at odds with in vitro research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous tick-borne infections cause problems for humans and animals worldwide. Lyme disease is the best known, but babesiosis, bartonellosis, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and many others are also serious problems. Many studies have confirmed that herbs and herbal extracts can help to repel the several types of ticks (as can nonchemical means such as wearing long pants and tucking them into socks) that spread these diseases, as well as inhibit their reproduction. Corymbia citriodora (lemon eucalyptus) and its compound para-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) have most convincingly been shown to be effective. 2-Undecanone and nootkatone with carvacrol have also shown some promise. Despite many claims of efficacy, no published clinical research could be located on any herb or herbal constituent to treat any tick-borne illness and thereby validate these claims. Dipsacus fullonum (fuller's teasel) is used as a case study to show a promising herb that has simply no research on whether it helps people with Lyme disease or any tick-borne infection. In vitro and animal studies show some promise for herbs and herbal compounds such as Brucea javanica (Java brucea) and artemisinin, but they have not been studied in clinical trials. There remains a black hole in terms of supported herbal treatments for these infections that urgently needs to be filled with credible clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbs used to prevent and treat gouty arthritis are reviewed in depth. Colchicum autumnale (autumn crocus) along with other sources of colchicine, including Gloriosa superba (flame lily), are described, both for their historical significance and relevance to the drug colchicine and also for their use as whole herbs. The reasons for considering whole herbs versus only isolated constituents in the context of Colchicum and colchicine are highlighted. Three herbal foods that are helpful for gout are then discussed: Apium graveolens (celery); Prunus avium (sweet cherry) and P. cerasus (tart cherry); and Coffea arabica (coffee). Various Chinese herbal formulas traditionally used for gout and now the subject of modern research are presented, notably Chuanhu antigout mixture, Er Miao Wan/San (Two Marvel Decoction/Powder), and Si Miao Wan (Four Marvels Teapills). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome [SARS], Middle East respiratory syndrome [MERS]), flavivirus (yellow fever, West Nile, dengue, Zika), and alphavirus (chikungunya, Ebola) infections have, in the past 10-20 years, emerged or reemerged as major problems across large regions of the globe. While, currently, many of these infections are confined to the tropics, global warming, the spread of some mosquito vectors northward, and emergence of temperate-tolerant pathogens such as West Nile virus mean that these problems are increasingly affecting the global north as well. After discussing mosquito-based preventions for the zoonotic infections mentioned in this article, a review of herbal responses to the SARS and MERS epidemics are highlighted. Houttuynia cordata (houttuynia, yú xīng cǎo) and Glycyrrhiza spp. (licorice) stand out as particularly interesting single herbs for addressing these coronavirus infections. Herbal approaches to flavivirus infections, most notably clinical trials of Carica papaya (papaya) leaves for treating dengue fever, are reviewed. A discussion of many of the extensive range of herbs studied to treat flaviviruses in preclinical studies is provided. Potential herbal treatments for alphavirus infections are then presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbs to prevent (primarily) and treat some major men's health concerns are reviewed. For benign prostatic hyperplasia, the roles of Serenoa repens (saw palmetto), Prunus africanum (pygeum), Urtica dioica (nettle) root, and Ammi visnaga (khella) are discussed. For prostate cancer, Punica granatum (pomegranate), Allium sativum (garlic), and Glycine max (soy) and other legumes--including their isoflavones--are reviewed. For two conditions related to obesity and metabolic syndrome, erectile dysfunction and secondary hypogonadism, the roles of pomegranate, Epimedium spp. (horny goat weed), Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng), Crocus sativa (saffron), and phytoestrogens are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motion sickness occurs commonly. Existing drug treatments either carry unwanted adverse effects or are insufficiently effective. Scopolamine, one of the major drugs for treating motion sickness, is a natural product found in many members of the Solanaceae family. Two members of this family, Atropa belladonna (belladonna) and Hyoscamus niger (henbane), are discussed as safer whole-plant alternatives to isolated scopolamine. The best studied herbal medicine for motion sickness, Zingiber officinale (ginger), is both safe and effective for many people. A whole host of other plants in the same family as ginger, the Zingiberaceae, are also antiemetic, including Alpinia officinarum (lesser galangal), A. katsumadai (Hainan or Katsumada galangal), Curcuma caesia (black zedoary), C. zedoaria (white zedoary), C. amada (mango ginger), and Renealmia alpinia (ixquihit), which are particularly discussed in this group. Finally, the Lamiaceae or mint family contains many antiemetic herbs. Mentha x piperita (peppermint) and M. spicata (spearmint) are particularly discussed. The novel use of their volatile oils by inhalation as an alternative to other routes of administration in motion sickness is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eosinophilic conditions are reviewed briefly, including the fact that early misunderstanding likely led to the now largely discredited idea that eosinophils are crucial to their the pathogenesis of these chronic allergic conditions. They can be relieved effectively by a range of herbal medicines-just a small selection of the large number of such medicines that have been studied, which are reviewed here. Ephedra sinica ( ma huang) is discussed in some detail as one of the strongest traditional antiallergic agents in Chinese medicine. Many studies-including those involving ma huang-dominated formulas such as Dìng Chuăn Tāng (Arrest Wheezing Decoction) and Má Huáng Fù Ziõ Xì Xīn Tāng (Ephedra Aconite Asiasarum formula)-have shown ma huang to be effective for people with eosinophilic conditions. Ammi visnaga (khella) and a semisynthetic medication made from its compound khellin, cromolyn, are reviewed in depth. Yù Píng Fēng Săn (Jade Windscreen Powder) has been shown to be synergistic with cromolyn. Quercetin, a flavonoid in wide clinical use by natural practitioners for patients with allergies, and a related flavonoid, luteolin, are discussed as potentially effective antieosinophilic compounds. Finally, the immunomodulating herb Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus; huáng qí) is reviewed as a very different and effective agent directed toward T-cell problems underlying eosinophilic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a symptom and not a single disease with multiple possible causes, although atherosclerosis (and concomitant endothelial dysfunction), metabolic syndrome/diabetes mellitus, and psychosocial factors are the most common causes by far, other than the obvious population of men after pelvic surgeries (primarily prostatectomies) with iatrogenic ED. Herbal strategies to treat and prevent these major underlying problems, and thus alleviate the symptoms of ED, are reviewed. Antiatherosclerotic herbs, such as Allium sativum (garlic), Punica granatum (pomegranate), and Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo), are discussed for arteriogenic ED. Endothelial function-improving herbs, such as Epimedium spp. (horny goat weed) and Butea superba (red kwao krua), are discussed next for this same problem. The adaptogens with the most male-reproductive affinity, Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) are then reviewed. Aphrodisiac herbs, principally effective for psychogenic ED are reviewed, including Pausinystalia yohimbe (yohimbe), Turnera diffusa (damiana), Crocus sativus (saffron), and Lepidium meyenii (maca). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines can be used alone to prevent and treat primary dysmenorrhea or used to augment other therapies (nutritional, hydrotherapy, and/or pharmaceutical). The major categories of herbs reviewed in this article include uterine spasmolytics, inflammation modulators, and astringent tonics. Herbs a covered include Viburnum opulus (cramp bark) and V. prunifolium (black haw), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Atropa belladonna (belladonna), the Chinese formula Dāng guī sháo yào săn (dong quai and peony powder), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Trillium spp. (bethroot), Rosa spp. (rose), and Psidium guajava (guava). Details of dosing and safety are discussed with each herb. γ-Linolenic acid, a component of several plants, is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is a common problem, and herbs can be quite helpful and are much safer than most drugs for insomnia. Moderately potent herbs that primarily work by enhancing sleep architecture or quality are reviewed in detail. These include Valeriana officinalis (valerian), Valeriana sitchensis (Pacific valerian) and related species, Humulus lupulus (hops), and Piscidia piscipula (Jamaica dogwood). Much milder nervines, requiring long-term use for full benefits-including Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Melissa officinalis (lemonbalm), Nepeta cataria (catnip), Scutellaria lateriflora (skullcap), and Centella asiatica (gotu kola)-are discussed, and their place in improving insomnia is clarified. The much stronger and less often used sedative herbs Gelsemium sempervirens (gelsemium), Pulsatilla vulgaris (common pasque flower), P. patens (Eastern pasque flower), Anemone ( Pulsatilla) occidentalis (western pasque flower), and A. tuberosa (desert anemone) are considered next. Finally, the delayed-onset sleep-maintaining herb Myristica fragrans (nutmeg) is put into clinical context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents two case studies of a 28-year-old woman and 50-year-old woman with symptoms of St. serotonin syndrome Topics discussed include use of herbal medicines to increase efficacy or decrease adverse effects of antidepressant drugs, a table depicting categories and abbreviations for antidepressant drugs and adverse drug interactions of St. John's wort-antidepressant.

The article discusses how Momordica charantia (bitter melon), Opuntia spp. (prickly pear), Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) and Aloe vera (aloe) gel and certain other herbs help control diabetes. Studies show that bitter melon is insulin sensitizing and is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Diabetics should take prickly pear right before, or with, a meal.

The article discusses the role of herbs in the treatment of diabetes. Topics discussed include increase in the number of incidence of diabetes which leads the need for botanical alternatives, the role of natural insulin sensitizers such as cinnamon tree regarding treatment of diabetes, a reports on the use of botanicals for patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2).

The article discusses the benefits of herbs on patients undergoing major surgery. Among the suggested herbs mentioned include Zingiber officinale (ginger) for postsurgical nausea, Centella asiatica (gotu kola) for postsurgical scarring, and Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) for stress ulceration. Also mentioned are the safety and risk issues of herbs when combined with any medical intervention.

Chinese herbal options for urinary-tract infections (UTIs), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and chronic prostatitis are reviewed. Chinese equivalents of these conditions are described, and various Chinese herbs and formulas used to treat the conditions are discussed. Two Marvel Powder (Èr Miäo Sän) and its components, Phellodendron amurense (Amur corktree, huáng bäi) and Atractylodes lancea (black atractylodes, cängzhü) are discussed with respect to treating infectious cystitis. Eight Herb Powder for Rectification (Bâ Zhèng Sän) is also discussed for helping patients who have UTIs. Ephedra, Aconite, and Asarum Formula (Má huáng fa zïxï xïn täng; mao-bushi-sasishin-tö in Japanese) is also mentioned for addressing antibiotic-resistant UTIs. Enrich the Kidneys and Open the Gates Pill (ZI Shèn Töng Guän Wán), Saxífraga stolonifera (strawberry saxifrage), and Ganoderma lucidum (língzhl, reishi, mannentake) are discussed with respect to their roles in helping patients who have BPH. Particular attention is given to differentiating subtypes of chronic prostatitis, and some evidence is provided showing that this helps to choose the proper therapy, at least as far as Chinese herbal formulas are concerned. Four formulas (two traditional and two modern) are discussed in detail for various types of chronic prostatitis: (1) Eight Treasure Powder or Decoction (Bei Zhën Sän); (2) Reaping Mixture (Ai Kë Hé Jï); (3) Bupleurum Powder to Dredge the Liver (Chái Hú Shü Gän Sän); and (4) Black Colt Capsule (Xuán Jü Jiäo Náng). Finally, Rehmannia Eight (Bâ Wèi Di Huáng Wán; Hachimi-jio-gan in Japanese) is discussed as an adjunct to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scale of the problem of hepatotoxicity of botanicals is reviewed. This problem was found to be very small, largely limited to idiosyncratic reactions (as opposed to intrinsic toxicity of herbal compounds for the liver), and hampered by the availability of high-quality evidence against intrinsic hepatotoxicity. Claims that herbal hepatotoxicity is common but hidden could not be substantiated. Various herbs sometimes considered hepatotoxic are reviewed in depth, including Piper methysticum (kava); Larrea tridentata (creosote bush); unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing herbs, such as Symphytum officinale (comfrey) and Tussilago farfara (coltsfoot); Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh); and Camellia sinensis (green tea) and its catechins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasingly, studies suggest that the current approach to osteoporosis, involving large amounts of calcium and vitamin D, may not prevent osteoporosis but, instead, may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and kidney stones. This article reviews research suggesting that appropriate amounts of essential fatty acids, especially in the form of α-linolenic acid, may be a better approach to improve both bone and cardiovascular health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions between immunosuppressive drugs (other than calcineurin inhibitors) and herbs are reviewed. The benefits of combining corticosteroids with Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage), Allium sativum (garlic), Allium cepa (onion), Panax notoginseng (sanchi ginseng), Tripterygium wilfordii (thunder duke vine),* and Zingiber officinale (ginger) are discussed. The impact of Citrus x paradisi (grapefruit), Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort), Glycyrrhiza glabra, and G. uralensis (licorice) on corticosteroid pharmacokinetics is reviewed. Interactions of Nigella sativa (black cumin), Paeonia lactiflora (white peony) root without bark, thunder duke vine, licorice, and glycyrrhizin with methotrexate (used in immunosuppressive doses, compared to chemotherapeutic doses), positive and negative, are discussed. Little research is available on interactions with azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, sirolimus, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate with herbs, but the studies that exist are reviewed, including those on Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), thunder duke vine, St. John's wort, silymarin, glycyrrhizin, Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus), and the Chinese herbal formula Qing Re Huo Xue Tang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calcineurin-inhibiting drugs cyclosporine and tacrolimus are very commonly used in patients after organ transplantation, as well as in some patients with severe autoimmune diseases. However, these drugs can cause severe adverse effects, including kidney damage (particularly problematic in people who have undergone kidney transplantation), diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and many other problems. Some herbal medicines, particularly Cordyceps sinensis = Ophiocordyceps sinensis (cordyceps) mycelium, have been shown to enhance the efficacy-while decreasing the toxicity-of cyclosporine. Other herbs that may be helpful for patients who are taking cyclosporine include Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese licorice), Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus), and Allium sativum (garlic). Fish oil may also be beneficial for people who are taking cyclosporine. Dose-sparing agents for potential use with cyclosporine include Citrus x paradise (grapefruit) and Geum chiloense = G. quellyon (scarlet avens). Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) can interfere with cyclosporine and tacrolimus and should not be taken simultaneously with these drugs. Herbs that can be beneficial in combination with tacrolimus include Camellia sinensis (green tea), Isatis tinctoria (woad), Schisandra sphenanthera (southern schisandra), grapefruit, and Citrus grandis (pomelo) - provided the tacrolimus dose is reduced-as well as Paeonia lactiflora (white peony) and Tripterygium wilfordii (thunder duke vine*). The details of these and other interactions are reviewed in this article [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the effectiveness of important herbal formulas from Chinese medicine including rokumijiogan, gingyo-san, and sansounin-tö that can be helpful in Western medicine. It mentions that rokumijiogan containing carcinogenic unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids can be helpful for patients having chronic renal diseases. It reveals that gingyo-san can be effective for treating acute viral bronchitis disorders.

The article explores the potential of plants in addressing multidrug resistance. According to the author, there is a need for practitioners to weigh the significant potential benefits of adding plants to the regimens of patients taking antibiotics, given the grave problems associated with plant use. A significant benefit as an adjunct to ß-lactams, carbapenems and tetracycline is seen in tea, which comes due to its potential to treat infections caused by E. coli and shigella.

The article presents an information on several antifibrotic herbs including. It is mentioned that licorice is used to reduce the risk of patients with hepatitis C developing cirrhosis. It also mentions that Centella asiatica (gotu kola) herb is the one whose entire plant including leaf, stem, flower, fruit, and root is being used to heal wounds recommended for fibrotic conditioned patients. It states that a Flavonolignan extract from the seeds, known as silymarin is used for liver fibrosis.

The article discusses various herbal treatments that can be helpful in curing night sweats in women which is a part of perimenopausal symptoms. Nutritional component and adaptogens should be included in the treatment of night sweats to balance hormonal changes caused due to excess of xenoestrogens during menopause in women. Herbs including Actaea racemosa root, Angelica sinensis root, and Melissa officinalis can treat night sweats during perimenopause is also mentioned.

The article discusses the development and benefits of transgenic medicinal plants such as Carica papaya (papaya), Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) and Atropa belladonna (belladonna). Studies to develop transgenic papaya with herbicide-resistant properties were carried out. Transgenic ginseng with the ability to produce an enzyme making it resistant to bialaphos was developed. Transgenic belladonna to increase the production of scopolamine was also developed.

The article discusses the potential benefits of herbs such as Psoralens, Hypericins and Citrus as clinical photosensitizers for psoriasis, vitiligo, and various cancers. Ammi majus (bishop's weed) and Ammi visnaga (khella) are two of the plants used to treat vitiligo. Hypericin and polar methanolic extract (PME) have been shown to sensitize leukemia cells to laser light in vitro. Citrus like grapefruit can be used to assist the treatment of advanced psoriasis.

The article offers information on herbal agents that reduce the negative effects of excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. It states that phlebodium aureum, also known as the golden serpent fern, is an oral supplement for combating the effects of excessive exposure to UV light. Furthermore, propolis is useful in the modulation of redox states to prevent inflammation-modulating properties and free-radical formation.

The article focuses on the diagnosis and treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). It says that the PBC which is most common in women ages 35-60 is an autoimmune cholestatic disease affecting the gallbladder, biliary ducts, and liver. It says that the common presenting symptoms of PBC are pruritus and fatigue, while jaundice are encountered less common as initial signs of the disease. Moreover, the underlying gastrointestinal pathology driving PBC can be treated by water fasting.

The article focuses on herbal formulas in relieving symptoms for tinnitus. It states that the use of the herb Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) for tinnitus lack methodological quality and some studies may be considered flaw. It mentions that the root of Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating deafness while Koreans used the herb for acute acoustic trauma (AAT).

The article focuses on medicinal herbs that may protect the body against the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. Information on herbs that can augment the desired effects of ionizing radiation, when used intentionally and principally as cancer therapy is presented. Herbs that specifically enhance the benefits of radiotherapy are discussed.

The article offers information on the utilization of botanical medicine to protect the body from the effects of ionizing radiation. It states that the use of herbs is helpful both in an intentional and unexpected exposure to radiation. Also discussed is the redox modulation effect of herbs on radioprotection.

The article focuses on the therapeutic use of undervalued herbs including Anemopsis californica or yerba mansa, neutralizing cordial, and Althaea officinalis or marshmallow root. It states that the yerba mansa is used in the treatment of abscesses and wounds. Moreover, the neutralizing cordial is a herbal mixture developed by eclectic physicians for the treatment of infectious diarrhea. Furthermore, the cold infusion of Althaea officinalis is used for the treatment of strep throat in children.

Western herbs that relax smooth muscle and the conditions these herbs are used to treat are reviewed in this article. Carminatives, such as the STW-5 formula, Angelica archangelica (garden angelica), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Melissa officinalis (lemonbalm), Mentha x piperita (peppermint), and Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), are discussed. The stronger gastrointestinal (GI) spasmolytics Atropa belladonna (belladonna) and Garrya flavescens (silk tassel) are also mentioned. Gallbladder amphoterics Fumaria officinalis (fumitory) and Fumaria indica (pitpapra) are reviewed along with the pure gallbladder spasmolytic Dioscorea villosa (wild yam). Bronchodilators and relaxing expectorants are covered. These include Thymus vulgaris (thyme), Ephedra sinica (ma huang), Eriodictyon angustifolia (narrowleaf yerba santa), E. californica (yerba santa), Hyssopus officinalis (hyssop), Prunus serotina (black cherry), and Lobelia inflata (lobelia). Uterine spasmolytics discussed include fennel, Zingiber officinale (ginger), Viburnum opulus (cramp bark) and V. prunifolium (black haw). Vasodilating herbs mentioned include Salvia miltiorrhiza (dan shen), black haw, Crataegus laevigata (hawthorn), C. curvisepala (Iranian hawthorn), and Marrubium vulgare (horehound). Spasmolytic herbs helpful for relieving acute renal colic mentioned include Ammi visnaga (khella), lobelia, Piscidia piscipula (Jamaica dogwood), gelsemium, Western pasque flower, and Hyoscyamus niger (henbane). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigella sativa (black seed or black cumin) originated from the Mediterranean region and has been used in cultures in that area since time immemorial. The well-named herb has jetblack seeds notable for their content of terpenoids, particularly thymoquinone, and fatty acids. Clinical trials have validated this herb's traditional use for treating atopic disorders. There is also clinical trial support, although preliminary, for the use of black seed in people withdrawing from, and trying to abstain from, opioids, and people who want to improve lipid profiles and/or decrease seizure frequency. Other actions black seed shows are antidiabetic, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, inflammation-modulating, redox-modulating, immunomodulating, analgesic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and gastroprotective effects. Animal studies suggest that this herb may be a useful adjunct to cancer chemotherapy and acetaminophen. Black seed is extremely safe if used in proper doses and is a widely utilized food item in the Middle East and India. Further research is needed but this resource should be more widely utilized in the West. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review discusses the clinical potentials of Bacopa monnieri (bacopa, water hyssop, or brahmi). Bacopa is an herb that combines adaptogenic and nervine properties. Animal and clinical studies show it to have anxiolytic, antidepressant, cognitive- enhancing, antioxidant, cholinergic, and adaptogenic actions. These properties make it a highly useful herb to help patients cope with physical and emotional stress, and the cognitive impairment that usually accompanies aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberine is a constituent in a variety of plants around the world. Berberine-containing plants are used to treat intestinal disorders in many traditions. This use was studied, and, subsequently, isolated berberine was found to be so effective for treating diarrhea that the substance was approved as an over-the-counter diarrheal remedy in China in the 1950s. This article reviews the research on use of berberine for treating congestive heart failure, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This research suggests that berberine should be more widely used to address these conditions. Berberine is an inexpensive chemical, and virtually every culture has some exposure to berberine-containing plants used in traditional medicine. This wide usage and exposure suggests that berberine is a very safe compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immune disease lichen planus affects primarily mucous membranes, particularly in the mouth. Current drug treatments are palliative only and have significant adverse effects. The disease appears to be related to stress, leaky gut, and allergies, and natural medicine offers ways to treat these underlying problems including diet, supplements, and herbal therapies. Potentially valuable herbal therapies for symptoms or to treat causes include nerviness and adaptogens. These include Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) gel; Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizome; curcumin; Potentilla tormentilla (tormentil) herb; Portulacca oleracea (purslane) leaf; Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root; Tripterygium wilfordii (thunder god vine) root; Althaea officinalis (marshmallow) leaf or root; Alcea rosea (hollyhock) leaf or root; Symphytum officinale (comfrey) leaf; Zingiber officinale (ginger) rhizome; Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet) flowering top; Achillea millefolium (yarrow) flowering top; Calendula officinalis (calendula) flower; Humulus lupulus (hops) strobile; Larrea tridentata (creosote bush) herb; Artemisia tridentata (bigleaf sagebrush) leaf, Crataegus spp. (hawthorn) leaf, flower and fruit; Rubus spp. (blackberry, raspberry) leaf and root; Vaccinium spp. (blueberry, bilberry) leaf and fruit; Morella cerifera (bayberry) bark, Polygonum spp. (bistort) leaf, Camellia sinensis (black tea) steamed leaf; and Agrimonia eupatoria (agrimony) herb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional and researched herbal treatments for acute and chronic viral hepatitis caused by hepatitis A, B, and C viruses are reviewed. Agents discussed include Andrographis paniculata (kalmegh) leaf, Silybum marianum (milk thistle) seed, silymarin, silibinin, Liv.52 formula, Artemisia capillaris (capillary wormwood, yin chen hao) leaf, Yin Chen Hao Tang, Ligusticum porteri (oshá) root, Ligusticum grayi (oshala) root, Lomatium dissection (desert parsley) root, Forsythia suspensa (lian qiao) herb, Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort) herb, Coptis chinensis (gold thread, huang lian) root, Artemisia ludoviciana (western mugwort) leaf, Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root, glycyrrhizin, Schisandra chinensis (wu wei zi) fruit, Astragalus membranaceus (huang qi) root, Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) root, Arctium lappa (burdock) root, shosaiko-to, Xiao Chai Hu Tang, Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage, dan shen) root, salvianolic acid B, Fuzheng Huayu formula, Gynostemma pentaphyllum (jiao gulan) root, and Ginkgo biloba seed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]