A Quick Guide to Herbal Supplements

Are you baffled by today’s vast array of herbal supplements? What should you try? Why should you try it? Well first of all, try consulting this quick guide to help you decide which herbs will suit your needs the best. All the following supplements are available either via mail order, in good health food shops and often supermarkets too.

Aloe Vera

Aids digestion, easing bloating, wind and inflamed bowels.

St Johns Wort

Has been described as nature’s prozac; this herb has amazing antidepressant qualities.

Ginger

Is ideal when suffering from colds and flu, being very warming. It gives the immune system a welcome boost. It can also be useful when treating skin irritations.

Valerian

Is known to relax both mind and body and can help you overcome insomnia, cramps, period pain and high blood pressure.

Liquorice Root

Has a detoxifying effect on the liver and can heal the stomach lining. It has a similar action to oestrogen and is therefore beneficial for those experiencing the menopause. It may also offer stress relief.

Alfalfa

Contains all known vitamins and offers a terrific boost to the immune system. It also contains enzymes to aid digestion plus flavonoids, phytoestrogen (plant hormones) and amino acids: a great all-rounder.

Devils Claw

Is known for containing anti-inflammatory properties, great for those who suffer problems with the joints, tendons and ligaments.

Oil of Peppermint

Is renowned for its antispasmodic action on the muscles in the gut so it is beneficial to those with irritable bowel syndrome. It is also safe for use during pregnancy to ease nausea.

Feverfew

Can ease migraines and headaches and may also help sooth rheumatism and arthritis.

Lemon Balm

Is often helpful for those who suffer with mild depression, panic attacks and anxiety problems.

Milk Thistle

Aids the liver whilst also keeping oestrogen within manageable levels and is therefore, a fabulous supplement for those suffering with PMS.

Ginkgo Biloba

Improves the circulation making it incredibly effective when treating inflammatory problems and varicose veins. The boosted circulation to the brain may even improve the memory.

Echinacea

Is advantageous when fighting bacterial, viral and fungal infections. The perfect herb for the winter as it gives the immune system a massive boost.

Garlic

Protects from heart disease, improves circulation and reduces cholesterol.

Ginseng

Can aid the central nervous system and build on the ability to fight disease. It can relieve stress and fatigue as well as reducing cholesterol.

Senna

Is useful, on a short-term basis only, for the relief of constipation.

Horny goat weed

Is commonly used as an aphrodisiac and stress reliever.

Astragalus

A tonic herb originating from Chinese medicine, builds a healthy immune system. Another herb that’s particularly useful during winter months for keeping colds and flu at bay and it may also relieve fatigue.

Black Cohosh

An alternative for women to HRT. It does not however, protect bone density.

If you suffer from a medical condition such as; high or low blood pressure, heart problems, an intestinal or stomach ulcer, diabetes etc; or are pregnant or breast-feeding it is important to first discuss taking any herbal supplement with your doctor. The same applies if you have a mental health problem.