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What Herbs are Proven Effective by the Department of Health?

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Herbs were the first medicine used by people. For thousands of years herbs have been used to treat illnesses and ailments. In modern history pharmaceuticals have replaced herbal remedies. Although many pharmaceuticals used now were derived from herbs or mimic the the benefits of herbs. In more recent times herbal medicine and supplements have made a bit of a resurgence. For a variety of reasons including them being more affordable, and easier to obtain compared to their pharmaceutical counterparts.

Today we’ll go over 10 medical plants endorsed by the Department of Health (DOH). These have been scientifically validated to ensure their safety and efficacy.

What is Herbal Medicine?

First let’s understand what herbal medicine is.

Herbal medicine is a product made from plant leaves, roots, seeds, berries, bark or flowers that are useful in treating disease or maintaining health. When the herbal medicine is taken by mouth it is called an herbal supplement. 

Although many herbs and supplements sold in stores are considered safe, it’s highly recommended that you consult an herbalist who can direct you to high quality supplements. Most herbal supplements aren’t regulated as strictly as pharmaceuticals. This can result in a contaminated product or a product that isn’t as potent as described on the label. Consulting an herbalist will also shed light on any adverse reactions herbal supplements may have with medicine you may be taking.

10 Medicinal Plants Endorsed by the DOH-PITAHC

Akapulko

The akapulko plant commonly known as Senna or Ringworm Bush is a small tree known to contain chrysophanol acid. Chrysophanol acid has been shown to be effective when treating conditions such as scabies, eczema, insect bites and other skin infections.

Ampalaya

Also known as Bitter Melon, has been used in China for centuries for medicine and cooking. The leaves of the ampalaya plant have been used to lower blood sugar levels. Though blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly to avoid any complications.

Bawang

A Philippine variety of garlic has been known and used during World War II because of its antibacterial properties. Garlic contains a compound known as allicin which acts as an antiseptic. The leaves and bulbs can also be used to lower blood cholesterol levels.

Bayabas

Commonly known as Guava, these fruit trees can be seen in many homes in southern California. The fruit can be eaten as a snack, but can also help with diarrhea. While the leaves can be used as an antiseptic.

Lagundi

The leaves from the Lagundi tree also known as Five-leaved chaste tree have been shown to prevent the body from producing leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are released when having an asthma attack. It can also be used to treat coughs, the common cold and fevers.

Niyog-niyogan

Also called Chinese honeysuckle, the Niyog-Niyogan’s leaves can be applied to the head to relieve headaches. While the seeds can be taken as an  anthelmintic.

Sambong

The sombong leaves and flowers are used for a variety of conditions including fever, choughs and headaches. It can also be used as a diuretic, and it can dissolve kidney stones. 

Tsaang-gubat

Also called wild tea or scorpion bush, in folkloric medicine the leaves have been used to treat diarrhea. In recent years, products made by Tsaang-gubat  can help with gastroenteritis. Or tea can be made and gargled to prevent cavities.

Ulasimang bato

Also known as peperomia pellucida, the ulasimang bato is a small herb with heart shaped leaves known for its analgesic properties. The leaves can be made into an infusion or salad to help relieve pain caused by gout or rheumatic pains. It can also be used topically for boils and abscesses.

Yerba Buena 

Commonly known as peppermint, yerba buena has been used for centuries as tea and as a pain reliever. It is still drunk as a tea to reduce cough, nausea, and dizziness. It’s also used to reduce pain and pruritus which is an uncomfortable sensation of itchiness.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What Diseases are Treated with Herbs?

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Medicinal Herbs
Medicinal herbs can sometimes help treat diseases.

Herbs have been used as treatment for diseases and ailments for centuries around the world. Today, the popularity of herbal medicine has increased, many Americans have chosen to seek herbal medicine for treatment due to it being more affordable and easier to obtain compared to its pharmaceutical counterparts. 

But what diseases are treated with herbs? 

What should I keep in mind when looking for herbal treatment for my condition?

Join me as we discover the answers to these questions and more.

What is an Herbal Supplement?

When a product is made for internal use with plants, roots or any other botanical to maintain health or treat a condition it is known as an herbal supplement. Though you need to practice precaution when looking for herbal supplements on your own. Just because a product is labeled as “natural” it doesn’t necessarily mean the product is safe for consumption.

Unfortunately herbal medicine and supplements do not go through the same testing that pharmaceuticals go through. Even when many over the counter medicine is derived from herbs,  herbal supplements themselves aren’t regulated as strictly. If you are thinking about using herbal medicine as a treatment, be sure to consult your herbal pharmacist. They should be able to either supply reliable herbal medicine or show you what brands are reputable and safe. At SOHMA Integrative Medicine in Long Beach, we only carry hand selected herbal supplements that are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Herbal supplements can be produced in many forms, and can be used in a variety of ways such as:

  • Pills
  • Powders
  • Teas
  • Tinctures
  • Gels
  • Lotions
  • Bath Additives

Herbal supplements aren’t for everyone. If you are unsure if you should begin treatment with herbal supplements, first consult with an herbal pharmacist. Some herbal medicines can have adverse reactions with prescribed pharmaceuticals.

What can Herbal Medicine Treat?

Although self diagnosis is highly discouraged, some herbs tend to be common treatment options for certain diseases. These include:

Aloe Vera

Used as a gel topically aloe vera can treat burns, psoriasis and osteoarthritis. It can also be consumed orally to treat digestive issues like constipation and gastritis. 

Aloe vera leaves contain latex which can lead to allergic reactions causing rashes, burning sensation and irritation. When consumed aloe vera may cause your blood sugar levels to drop and its laxative effects can lead to dehydration.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh is used to treat symptoms of menopause including hot flashes and nightsweats.

Side effects are mild but include: nausea, skin rashes, muscle pain, breast pain or bleeding outside of your menstrual cycle.

Echinacea

Also known as the purple coneflower, echinacea is used as a preventative against the common cold and flu. It is also used to boost the body’s immune system.

Common side effects include: nausea,vomiting, sore throat, drowsiness and headaches.

Evening Primrose

Oil derived from evening primrose can be used for breast pain, arthritis and reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Side effects are extremely rare however, allergic reactions can happen including: rashes, itching, swelling, dizziness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms seek immediate medical care.

Feverfew

Used as a pain reliever, good for headaches and menstrual cramps.

Mild side effects may include: canker sores, constipation, indigestion, nausea and diarrhea.

Flaxseed

An excellent source of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseed can also be used to lower cholesterol.

When consuming flaxseed oil it can cause diarrhea. Other side effects include bloating, stomach ache, constipation and gas.

Garlic

While also used in the kitchen, garlic is generally used to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

When consumed as a supplement garlic can have mild side effects like: bad breath and body odor, diarrhea, stomach aches and indigestion.

Ginkgo Biloba

Typically used to help older adults with conditions associated with aging, it can also be used for anxiety, depression, headaches and poor blood circulation.

Common side effects include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, stomach aches and insomnia.

Green Tea

One of the most commonly consumed drinks in the world, green tea can boost energy levels, lower cholesterol and help lose weight.

Consuming green tea late in the day can cause insomnia and restlessness when trying to sleep. When brewed too strongly, green tea can cause stomach irritation. Other side effects include anemia, iron deficiency, headaches and dizziness.

St. John’s Wort

Commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Side effects are rare, but can be serious. These include: dark stool, bruising, bleeding, or vomit containing black particles. Stop taking St. John’s wort and seek medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

This list is only meant to be informational and should not be used to self diagnose. Many herbal supplements may have adverse reactions to prescribed pharmaceuticals, take precaution and speak with your herbal pharmacist and primary care provider if you feel like beginning an herbal treatment for your condition.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What are the 7 Holy Herbs?

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Gingko Biloba is a potent and ancient herb that has helped people for thousands of years.

Herbal remedies and medicine have been used in human history for thousands of years. Regardless of the advancements of pharmaceuticals in modern times, the popularity of herbal supplements and remedies has increased due in part to their affordability and accessibility compared to conventional medicines. 

Join me as we explore 7 of the most commonly used herbs in herbal supplements and remedies, their benefits, and any safety concerns that may be relevant.

Ginkgo Biloba 

Also known as maidenhair, the ginkgo biloba is a tree native to China. Although in the past the leaves and seeds were used in traditional Chinese medicine, only the leaves are used in ginkgo extract now.

Ginkgo biloba contains powerful antioxidants which help fight free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive particles commonly produced by the body when converting food to energy. Ginkgo can help reduce and fight inflammation caused by many conditions including arthritis, irritable bowel disease, and heart disease. The anti-inflammatory properties in ginkgo have also been used to help treat:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Migraines
  • Headaches
  • Respiratory diseases like asthma

Overall the risk associated with ginkgo biloba is low for most adults, however, if you are allergic to plants containing alkylphenols it may cause harm. Common side effects of ginkgo include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Stomach Pain
  • Dizziness
  • Allergic Reaction

Ginkgo can have adverse reactions with NSAIDS (ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen), antidepressants, and blood thinners. Consult your primary care provider before using ginkgo if you’re currently using these medications.

Echinacea 

A native North American plant, echinacea was used by the natives. Many people believe the roots of the echinacea have the most potent effects through the leaves and flowers are also used.

Echinacea is primarily used to prevent the common cold. It’s also used to treat cold and flu symptoms. It’s usually drunk as a tea or supplement; it can also be applied topically.

Echinacea is considered safe for most adults though common side effects include nausea, stomach irritation, skin rash, or allergic reaction.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort’s uses can have been traced back to ancient Greece. It was used to aid in healing wounds, and relieve insomnia, depression, and lung and kidney conditions.

Today St. John’s wort is generally used to treat varying cases of depression. Some studies show short-term use of St. John’s wort may be as effective as some current antidepressants.

St. John’s wort has many interactions with modern medicines including birth control, antidepressants, blood thinners, and pain medications. St. John’s wort should only be used under the guidance of your primary care provider as some drug interactions could lead to harmful conditions.

Ginseng

The ginseng root is typically used in traditional Chinese medicine to increase energy, reduce inflammation and boost immunity and brain functions. The root is traditionally steeped to make tea or dried to make powder.

Ginseng has anti-inflammatory properties and is an antioxidant. Ginseng may help protect against oxidative stress and can help reduce inflammation. And is still used to increase energy levels and fight tiredness.

For adults, ginseng appears to be safe but can cause mild nervousness and insomnia. Though people taking diabetes medicine should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully to make sure levels don’t go too low when using ginseng.

Garlic

The common garlic you can purchase at the grocery store has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. Used for cooking and its potential health benefits, garlic has been taken to prevent and treat many different conditions.

At present, garlic can be used to aid with conditions linked to the heart and the circulatory system including:

  • High Cholesterol
  • Heart Attack
  • Hypertension
  • Heart Disease

Though commonly consumed in foods, garlic when taken as an herbal supplement may increase the risk of bleeding.

Ginger

Much like garlic, ginger has been used as an ingredient in food and in medicine. Originally from Southeast Asia, Ginger is among one of the healthiest plants out there. Ginger contains high amounts of gingerol, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Ginger has been used to aid with symptoms of the following:

  • Nausea
  • Arthritis
  • Heart Disease
  • Asthma

Ginger rarely causes side effects, though if consumed in large doses it can cause diarrhea or heartburn.

Chamomile

Native to Europe and Western Asia, Chamomile is a white flower in the daisy family. For thousands of years, chamomile was used to help treat fevers, headaches, kidney, liver, and bladder conditions, and many others.

Currently, chamomile is steeped to make tea to help with insomnia, anxiety, and indigestion. Some people use chamomile topically to reduce skin irritations and promote healing wounds though not enough research has been done for a conclusive answer.

For most adults, side effects are rare; however, if you are allergic to ragweed and chrysanthemum you may be allergic to chamomile. Chamomile contains a naturally occurring chemical with a similar effect to blood thinners. Talk to your primary care provider if you are taking blood thinners as too much chamomile can have an adverse reaction.

Although herbal remedies are natural, you should always consult with your primary care provider and herbal pharmacist before using herbal supplements as they’ll have a better understanding of how some herbs can react to your body or other medication you may be using.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What is the Difference Between Herbal Medicine and Pharmaceutical Medicine?

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Herbal Medicine and Pharmaceuticals Medicine are effective but each has its place and uses.

For many years people have wondered what the difference between herbal and conventional medicine is, and you’d be surprised to learn that they are as different as they are similar. When it comes to our health, knowing when to forgo pharmaceuticals for natural herbal medicine is incredibly important.

But what are the differences? What are the similarities? Today we’re going to do our best to distinguish herbal remedies and pharmaceuticals so you can make a better-informed decision when it comes to your health.

Organic vs Synthetic

The biggest and most notable difference is natural herbal medicine is organic and only lightly processed. Whereas pharmaceuticals can be synthetic even if the active ingredient was derived from a natural source. 

For thousands of years, people have used herbal medicine and remedies to treat and cure ailments. Only in relatively recent years have pharmaceuticals become more trusted than traditional herbal remedies. Products made from plants and used exclusively for internal use are called herbal supplements. Herbal supplements can be sold as dried herbs, in powdered form, capsules, or in liquid form and are meant to be swallowed as capsules, tinctures, or powdered. They can be brewed in teas or applied topically or added to a warm bath.

Although the use of herbal medicine has become more popular with American consumers, due to lax regulation on herbal supplements you need to be sure you’re buying from a reputable source, with a well-known history of quality products. Unknown processing conditions can result in diluted or contaminated supplements which can make it difficult to receive the correct dosage for desired effects. The herbal supplements we carry at SOHMA are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability. You can have peace of mind when buying from our herbal pharmacy.

Healing Pace

Pharmaceuticals are designed to work quickly to suppress symptoms of the condition they’re treating. Making the time required to see desired results with herbal medicine seem much slower in comparison. In some cases, the speed of pharmaceuticals is necessary to keep patients healthy. 

Herbal medicine and supplements work slower because they are meant to resolve and heal the underlying cause of the problem. This process takes time which can make herbal remedies less effective during emergency situations. Herbal medicines have amazing healing capabilities which need time to be able to be effective at dealing with the root causes of your condition.

Information

Because herbal supplements are not regulated the way pharmaceuticals are, less information is known about herbal remedies. Unlike conventional pharmaceuticals that you can purchase over the counter at any drugstore and all the information is on the bottle, you’ll need to educate yourself and learn as much as you can about the herbs you are going to be taking. For example, St. John’s Wort can be used as an antidepressant but when used with some contraceptive drugs may result in irregular bleeding or unplanned pregnancy, while valerian which is used as a sleep aid among other things isn’t likely to have adverse effects.

Have a conversation with your herbal pharmacist, and primary care provider to better inform yourself about any adverse reaction you may have if you would be combining herbal remedies and prescribed medicine or what if any side effects you should expect from the herbal medicine. As previously stated, herbal supplements aren’t regulated the way pharmaceuticals are, meaning you need to research the company that is making your supplements if you’re not buying from a trustworthy herbal pharmacy.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

4 Potential Disadvantages of Herbal Medicine

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Herbal medicine is an alternative treatment for common ailments. When used correctly it can alleviate many pains but always use them under supervision.

Just because something is natural or is derived from a natural source like a plant doesn’t always mean it is safe for consumption. You can accidentally give yourself serious health problems if you are careless. There are always some precautions you should take before buying or consuming herbal medicine.

 SOHMA recommends, that anyone who is looking to add herbal supplements or remedies as part of their health program should consult with medically trained professionals to mitigate risks. Today we’re going to go over the potential disadvantages of herbal medicine and how to avoid those shortcomings.

Adverse Interactions with Pharmaceuticals

This applies to those who have to take prescribed medicines. Many times it’s difficult to understand how some herbal medicines react with medicines that have been prescribed by a primary care provider. Feel free to ask the helpful staff at SOHMA Integrative Medicine in Long Beach CA any questions regarding how our herbal supplements may interact with any prescribed medicine you may be taking. Before deciding on a herbal medicine healing program, consult with your herbal pharmacist and primary care provider to reduce the risk of adverse interactions between your medications and herbal supplements.

The interactions between herbal medicine and pharmaceuticals may seem insignificant to some, and in many cases, it can be. Though when pharmaceuticals and herbal medicine share similar side effects it can cause side effects to exhibit worse symptoms. Examples of adverse interactions are with St. John’s wort, which is commonly used to help treat depression and menopausal symptoms, when taken with contraceptive drugs can cause in irregular bleeding or unplanned pregnancy. Or if you are taking blood-thinning medication like warfarin or aspirin you should try to avoid cranberry and ginkgo biloba as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Lack of Regulation

With the growing use of herbal medicines, the lack of or eased regulations for herbal medicine makes it difficult for consumers to reliably buy safe herbal medicine. The herbal supplements we carry at SOHMA are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability. Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine does not have as strict an inspection for safety or efficacy. There exist many companies that are just in it for themselves and take advantage of less fortunate people. The lack of dosage instructions required for claimed effects may not be properly stated. Unknown growing and processing conditions can result in a contaminated or diluted product.

It is extremely important to only purchase from reputable sources which are known for working efficiently and have a history of producing quality products.

Unknown Side-effects

Due to the previously stated lack of regulation with herbal medicine and supplements, herbal medicine can cause side effects that patients may not be aware of. Side effects can include the following:

  • Rashes
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Agitation
  • Dry Mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Severe side effects have been reported as well including liver damage and seizures. Because of this we cannot stress enough to buy from a reputable source. Consider new symptoms as potential side effects from herbal medicine and communicate with your primary care provider and herbal pharmacist to discuss how to proceed.

Slower Healing than Pharmaceuticals

The time required to see results is varied though usually, it’s much slower than pharmaceuticals. Herbal medicine and supplements work to resolve and heal the root cause of the problem which takes time. Herbal medicines have amazing healing capabilities but are not as effective in dealing with emergency situations.  Many over-the-counter pharmaceuticals repress a bodily function that triggers symptoms of diseases or infections. Herbal medicine takes more time because it is attempting to heal the root cause of your condition.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.