Sarah E Edwards

University of Oxford | OX ·  Institute of Human Sciences (IHS)

Medicinal Plants, Naturopathy and Ethnomedicine to face the challenges of PRIMARY HEALTH ATTENTION as part of Globalization.

Working Plan and Schedule for Symposio at Palenque, Mexico, Yr 2005

The health statistics in Australia show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are greatly disadvantaged, with low life expectancy and greater risk of chronic diseases.

Set of Books 1-6 reporting a comprehensive Survey of Native Food Production in Mexico, Central America (Sapperland) Greece and Peru, gathered in the XVI International Ethnobotany Symposio, held at Cusco, September 2018., with the High Auspices of National University S. Antonio Abad and local and Regional Delegates, involved in Food Production, main...

The Book 2 of Proceedings, Ethnobotany Smposio, Cusco, Peru, is comprehensive of five papers that cover Current Research in Frontier Agroecology, Economic Botany Permaculture, and native production, in various environmental scenarios: Mexico, Peru, Greece. They constitute Models for sustainable Food Production in the forthcoming years.

This is the first ethnobotanical exploration with the aim to document the traditional medicinal usage of plants with the therapeutic values in Tehsil Talagang of Punjab province, Pakistan. The study shows the dependence of local people on medicinal plants in their daily life and provides practical evidence regarding the traditional usage of medicin...

Medicinal plants used to manage diabetes in Central America

Focus on medicinal plants.

Abstract: A series of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, known as ISO IDMP, set out the elements required for the identification of medicinal products, including one for substances [1]. An Implementation Guide [2] for the substance standard has been written by international experts. The second edition, which includes an...

The data described in this article is related to the review article “Medicinal plants used in the traditional management of diabetes and its sequelae in Central America: a review” (Giovannini et al., 2016) [1]. We searched publications on the useful plants of Central America in databases and journals by using selected relevant keywords. We then ext...

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Infection by intestinal parasitic worms (soil-transmitted helminths or geohelminths) is prevalent in many parts of the world, and poses a particular health risk to children. This paper presents findings from a preliminary study with the primary aim to document indigenous knowledge about the use of herbal medicines i...

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Globally 387 million people currently have diabetes and it is projected that this condition will be the 7th leading cause of death worldwide by 2030. As of 2012, its total prevalence in Central America (8.5%) was greater than the prevalence in most Latin American countries and the population of this region widely us...

Plant names are the key to communicating and managing information about plants. This paper considers how providers of high quality technical plant name information can better meet the requirements non-botanical audiences who also rely on plant names for elements of their work. The International Plant Name Index, World Checklist of Selected Plant Fa...

Congress Abstract: MPNS (www.kew.org/mpns) is enhancing the safety, quality and effectiveness of global plant-based medicine research and practice. We are achieving this by offering a range of Information Services enabling individuals and organisations to communicate reliably when using plant names. The users of MPNS’s services include professional...

Healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists and nurses, are often confronted with patients who use over-the-counter (OTC) herbal medicinal products and food supplements. While taking responsibility for one’s own health and treatment options is encouraged, many patients use these products based on limited (and sometimes inaccurate) info...

Healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists and nurses, are often confronted with patients who use over-the-counter (OTC) herbal medicinal products and food supplements. While taking responsibility for one's own health and treatment options is encouraged, many patients use these products based on limited (and sometimes inaccurate) info...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.). There is anecdotal and pre-clinical evidence for cannabis use in epilepsy, chronic pain, depression, appetite regulation and many other conditions, where it has been taken illicitly...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of the herbal medicine Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa L.). Black cohosh is used mainly to relieve menopausal symptoms, including hot flushes. It has also been used for symptomatic relief...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe). Yohimbe is recommended for erectile dysfunction (ED) in males and loss of libido in females; it has also been advocated as an aid to weight loss and t...

This chapter presents the indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, adverse effects, dosage, and general plant information of Arnica (Arnica montana L. ). Arnica is used topically to treat sprains, bruises, inflammation, fracture oedema and muscle pain; and may support treatment...

This chapter talks about the herbal medicine feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium (L.)). Feverfew has traditionally been used for fever, as the name suggests, as well as rheumatic conditions, coughs and colds. The chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of feverfew....

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of ginseng (Panax ginseng). The closely related species P. quinquefolius and P. ginseng both contain similar triterpene saponins, which include those commonly referred to as ginsenosides; an essential oil with polya...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens (W. Bartram) Small). Saw palmetto extracts are used to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms such as dysuria, polyuria and urine retention, in men with a confirmed diagnosis of benign...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.). Flavonoids, including apigenin, eriodictyol, luteolin, naringenin and others are the main non-volatile constituents found in thyme herb. Traditionally, thyme is used in the treatment o...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of chilli/capsicum (Capsicum annuum L., C. frutescens L., C. pubescens). The pungent principles are the capsaicinoids, present in concentrations up to 1.5%, but more usually around 0.1%. The major capsaicinoids are...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.)). Bearberry preparations are intended to relieve symptoms of mild cases of water retention and early symptoms of mild urinary tract infections ((UTI); burning sensations...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis, S. sphenanthera). Schisandra is considered an ‘adaptogen’ (that is, it increases resistance to stress), and is used as a general tonic and to improve fatigue, for chronic coughs...

This chapter talks about the herbal plant, Verbena (Verbena officinalis L.). It presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of Verbena. Verbena is used for the relief of nasal congestion and sinusitis (generally in combination products) and...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Boldo Peumus boldo Molina. Boldo is used for mild digestive disturbances, gallstones, cystitis, and rheumatism; often used as an aid to slimming. The leaves contain alkaloids and essential oil, the main component...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). The uses of E. senticosus are similar to those of Asian and American ginseng, notably to improve the immune function. In this context it is used as an ‘adaptogen’, increasing...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus L.). Raspberry leaf is very commonly taken as a tea during the later stages of pregnancy, as it is reputed to facilitate labour. It is also used for the relief of menstrual cramps, fo...

This chapter talks about Aloe Vera (Gel) (Aloe Vera (L.)), discussing its indications, clinical evidence, interactions and contraindications, possible adverse effects, dosage, and general plant information. Aloe Vera gel is applied externally to treat skin irritation (such as from insect bites), burns, psoriasis, wounds, radiation dermatitis and fr...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of red vine leaf (Vitis vinifera L.). Red vine leaf is used for relieving symptoms associated with non-complicated chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), including mild oedema, and sensations of heaviness and tingling...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa L. ). Wild lettuce herb is used traditionally as a sedative in irritable cough and as a mild hypnotic in insomnia. It is rarely used alone but is common in products also containing va...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of hoodia (Hoodia gordonii (Masson) Sweet ex Decne). Hoodia is an appetite suppressant for weight loss and, more recently, for treating diabetes. H. gordonii extract has been extensively characterised; chemical prof...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of the herbal medicine Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.). The main active constituents of the root are the steroidal lactones, the withanolides, which include withaferin A, and sitoin...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria (L.)). The approved uses of Wild Indigo are for the relief of symptoms of the common cold, such as cough, catarrh, sore throat, runny or blocked nose....

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Rhodiola (Sedum roseum (L. ) Scop.). The medicine is used for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with stress such as fatigue, exhaustion and mild anxiety. The main active constituents of the root are the...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L. )). Preparations of the fruit are commonly used as a source of vitamins and antioxidants. Therapeutic claims are mostly for chronic inflammatory conditions, including arthr...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.). The main constituents are iridoid glycosides including aucubin and catalpol, mucilage polysaccharides, flavonoids such as apigenin and luteolin, the phenylethanoids (act...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Graviola (Annona muricata L.). The leaves, seeds and bark contain annonaceous acetogenins, including annonacin, annonacinone, annomontacin, murisolin and a series of muricins; and alkaloids including the benzylis...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale aggr., T. mongolicum Hand). Dandelion is used as a diuretic and adjuvant in minor urinary complaints, and also to relieve the symptoms of mild digesti...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.). Gingko is used mainly to enhance cognition, and to prevent or reduce memory deterioration during old age, and in the milder forms of dementia including the...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Ginger is one of the most widely used herbal medicines in the world and has a history of traditional use in most countries. Under the traditional herbal registration (THR) sch...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia). More than 200 compounds have been isolated from the fruit, seeds, leaves and roots. The main use of the fruit is for the management of type 2 diab...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of gentian (Gentiana lutea L.). Traditionally, gentian is used to treat loss of appetite following convalescence, and gastrointestinal complaints such as dyspepsia, bloating and flatulence. Historically, it was u...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of cramp bark (Viburnum opulus L.). The bark contains many phenolic derivatives, in particular catechins and epicatechin; ellagic, caffeic, chlorogenic, neochlorogenic, p-coumaric, ferulic, gallic, protocatechuic, h...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of the herbal medicine Astragalus (Astragalus mongholicus Bunge). In Europe and North America, it is used as an ‘adaptogen’ and for colds and flu, often in combinations. It is used widely in traditional Chinese medi...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of ispaghula husk, and psyllium husk (Plantago ovata Forssk.). Ispaghula preparations are used for the treatment of habitual constipation, and where soft stools are desirable, for example, after rectal or anal su...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Mallow (Malva sylvestris L.). Mallow herbal teas and hydroalcoholic extracts are most commonly used for upper respiratory tract inflammation, due to their antibacterial and demulcent properties. They are formulat...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of chamomile, Roman (Chamaemelum nobile (L.)). Internally, Roman chamomile is used to treat digestive ailments, including bloating and flatulence; and as a sedative for restlessness and...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Lobelia (Lobelia inflata L.). The active constituents are the piperidine alkaloids, mainly lobeline, but also lobelanine, lobelanidine, norlobelanine, lelobanidine, norlelobanidine, norlobelanidine and lobinine....

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens). Devil's claw extracts are used to relieve rheumatic or muscular pain, general aches and pains in the muscles and joints and backache. The com...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis Gomont). Used as a source of high quality protein and vitamins, spirulina is considered a ‘nutraceutical’ with diverse beneficial effects, including lowering of cholesterol, modul...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, and information about adverse effects and dosage of the herbal medicine Baobab (Adansonia digitata L). The nutrient rich fruit pulp is being marketed in the US and EU as yet another ‘super food’. In Africa baobab fruit pulp has man...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of Ipecacuanha (Carapichea ipecacuanha.). Ipecacuanha is used as a traditional herbal remedy for relief of coughs and colds, and as an expectorant, generally used in combination products...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Centella (Centella asiatica). Centella is now mainly used for symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), including varicose veins, varicose ulcers, diabetic and airline flight microangiopathy. The herb is al...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.). Valerian is used as a mild sedative to treat symptoms of anxiety, stress and insomnia, including (and especially) during menopause. The chemical composition of V. officinalis...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of butterbur (Petasites hybridus). The main constituents are the sesquiterpenes petasin and isopetasin, volatile oils, flavonoids and tannins. Toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids are present in the fresh plant, but prepar...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.). The main active constituents of horse chestnut are the acylated triterpene glycosides (saponins). Other constituents include flavonoids (di- and triglycosides of querce...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea L.). Goldenrod has been used traditionally as a diuretic and for treating and preventing inflammatory conditions of the lower urinary tract and kidney stones. It is an ingredient of...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium spp.). Horny Goat Weed is used to treat sexual dysfunction, particularly impotence in men and lack of libido in women. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is also used widely for osteop...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of the herbal medicine Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.). Traditionally, goldenseal rhizome/root has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, mainly involving infection. Internal...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Evening Primrose (Oil) (Oenothera biennis L.). Evening primrose oil is taken to provide essential fatty acids, and for the symptomatic relief of itching in acute and chronic dry skin conditions. It is also used f...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.). The major constituent of peppermint leaves is the essential oil (0.5–4 %), which contains the monoterpenes menthol (30–55%) and menthone (14–32 %). Menthol is found mainly in the...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus Labill.). The oil is used widely for the relief of symptoms of colds, cough, catarrh and sore throat, and as a decongestant, in oral and pastille preparations. It may be adminis...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of the herbal medicine, Linseed or Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). Traditional linseed extracts are often mucilaginous preparations, used as demulcents; they are taken internally for...

This chapter talks about the herbal medicine i.e. Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia Jack). It presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Tongkat Ali. Preparations of Tongkat Ali are most commonly used as a tonic for restoring energy and vitality, including in sports...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of garlic (Allium sativum L.). Garlic is claimed to possess anti-hypertensive, anti-thrombotic, fibrinolytic, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic and lipid-lowering properties. It i...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus L.). The medicine is used to relieve symptoms of venous insufficiency such as discomfort and heaviness of the legs, including in premenstrual oedema, and to relieve symptoms of i...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Squill (Drimia maritima (L.)). Squill is used for the relief of chesty coughs, as an expectorant. Red squill contains, in addition, scilliroside and scillirubroside and a red pigment. Flavonoids such as quercetin...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of Birch, Silver and Downy (Betula pendula Roth). Topical preparations made from birch leaf or bark extracts are traditionally used to treat inflammation and in the alleviation of pain...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of grapeseed (Vitis vinifera L.). Grapeseed is promoted as a rich antioxidant supplement for the prevention of degenerative disorders such as cardiovascular disease. The main active components are flavonoids, which...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.). Traditionally, skullcap herb is used to relieve temporary symptoms of stress including mild anxiety and insomnia. Baical skullcap (S. baicalensis) is very widely used in TCM...

This chapter presents clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, contraindications, information about adverse effects and dosage of Lapacho (Handroanthus impetiginosus). Lapacho is widely used, especially in South America, and often in the form of a herbal tea, for a range of conditions, including infections (bact...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Pelargonium (Pelargonium sidoides; P. reniforme). Pelargonium is used to treat acute bronchitis, tonsillitis and upper respiratory tract infections. Adverse effects, dosage, and general plant information are incl...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). Traditional uses of lavender include treatment of restlessness, agitation, insomnia and nervous intestinal discomfort. Lavender flowers have also been used in infusions to tr...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata). Kalmegh is mainly used to treat infection, inflammation and fever, and specifically the common cold, influenza type and other upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). In both...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri (L.)). Bacopa has a long history of use to enhance memory and cognition. It is a very important herb in Ayurveda where it is considered a ‘Rasayana’, which is...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.). Liquorice has long been used for the relief of digestive symptoms such as dyspepsia and to aid the healing of ulcers, both gastric and apthous type...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Nettle (Urtica dioica L.; U. urens L.). The modern use of nettle root (U. dioica and U. urens) is mainly to relieve symptoms of urinary tract discomfort in men with enlargement of the prostate, where cancer has b...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of passionflower (Passiflora incarnata L.). The active constituents include the flavonoids apigenin and its C-glycosides (vitexin, isovitexin, schaftoside); chrysin, luteolin (and its C-glycosides orientin and iso-o...

This chapter presents clinical and pre-clinical evidence, indications, mechanisms of action, potential interactions, contraindications, and possible adverse effects of cinnamon; Chinese cinnamon/cassia (Cinnamomum verum, C. cassia (L).). Cinnamon bark and oil (both types) are traditionally used for the symptomatic relief of mild, spasmodic gastroin...

This chapter talks about the herbal medicine, Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.). It presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Asparagus. A number of bioactive compounds have been isolated from asparagus roots, including furostanol-type and spirostanol-type ster...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L. ) H. Karst. ). Norway spruce is used for relief of cough, especially chesty coughs and catarrh. The fresh shoot tips are used traditionally in the form of a tea, and the essential o...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Senna (Senna alexandrina Mill.). Senna products are used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation and are available both on prescription and over-the-counter. Dried senna pods, and the leaves, often a...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, contraindications, adverse effects, dosage, and general plant information of Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L.). The main constituents of the leaf are phenolic acids, mainly chlorogenic acid, cynarin and caffeic acid. Sesquiterpene lactones such as cyn...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) and blueberry (V. angustifolium Aiton, V. corymbosum L.). Preparations of bilberry fruit are used to improve visual acuity and atherosclerosis and to treat haemorrhoids, venou...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.). Chamomile is widely used both internally and externally to treat inflammatory conditions. Topically, chamomile cream, gel and ointment are applied to treat nappy rash, sore a...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence, mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus L.). V. agnus-castus is often standardised to the content of the flavonoid casticin and sometimes also to the iridoid glycoside agnuside. In women, V. agnus-castus berries are trad...

This chapter presents indications, clinical evidence, pre-clinical evidence and mechanisms of action, interactions, and contraindications of Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea). The root contains alkamides, including dodecatetraenoic acid isobutylamide, caffeic acid derivatives and saturated (non-hepatotoxic) pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Alkylketones and th...