Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum)

Common name: He-shou-wu

Parts used and where grown: Fo-ti is a plant native to China, where it continues to be widely grown. It is also grown extensively in Japan and Taiwan. The unprocessed root is sometimes used; however, once it has been boiled in a special liquid made from black beans, it is considered a superior and rather different medicine according to traditional Chinese medicine. The unprocessed root is sometimes called white fo-ti and the processed root red fo-ti.

In what conditions might fo-ti be supportive?

Â¥ atherosclerosis

¥ constipation ¥ fatigue

¥ high cholesterol ¥ immune function

Historical or traditional use: The Chinese common name for fo-ti, he-shou-wu, was the name of a Tang dynasty man whose infertility was supposedly cured by fo-ti; in addition, his long life was attributed to the tonic properties of this herb.1 Since then, traditional Chinese medicine has used fo-ti to treat premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, numerous infectious diseases, angina pectoris, and impotence.

Active constituents: The active constituents of fo-ti have yet to be determined. The whole root has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, according to animal and human research, as well as to decrease hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis.2 3 Other fo-ti research has investigated this herbÕs role in strong immune function, red blood cell formation, and antibacterial action.4 The unprocessed roots possess a mild laxative effect.

How much should I take? A tea can be made from processed roots by boiling 3-5 grams in 250 ml (1 cup) of water for ten to fifteen minutes. Three or more cups are drunk each day. Fo-ti tablets, each in the amount of 500 mg, are also available. Many people take five tablets three times per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions? The unprocessed roots may cause mild diarrhea. Some people who are sensitive to fo-ti may develop a skin rash. Very high doses may cause numbness in the arms or legs.

References:

1. Foster S, Chongxi Y. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79-85.
2. Foster S, Chongxi Y. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79-85.
3. Foster S. Herbal Renaissance. Layton, Utah: Gibbs Smith, 1993, 40-41.
4. Foster S, Chongxi Y. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79-85.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium L.)

Compositae Composite family

Feverfew, also known as featherfew and bachelor’s buttons, is native to southwest Europe and was brought to America originally as an ornamental. It is commercially cultivated in Japan, Africa and Europe. Greek and European herbalists traditionally used it to reduce fevers.

The herb has a long history of use in traditional and folk medicine as a treatment for disorders often controlled by aspirin, such as fever, headaches and some of the accompanying symptoms such as nausea and depression.

Recently feverfew has been gaining fame as a effective treatment for migraine headaches. It may also help ease diseases caused by chronic inflammation such as arthritis. It is an aromatic plant with a strong and lasting odor, it has been used externally as an insect repellent and for treating insect bites.

Medicinal Properties: Carminative (gas relief), emmenagogue (promotes menstrual flow), purgative (strong laxative), stimulant, bitter tonic, antipyretic (reduces fever), aperient (mild laxative), anti-inflammatory, vermifuge

Biochemical Information: Essential oil containing camphor, terpene, borneol, various esters and a bitter principle, pyrethrin, tannin, sesquiterpene lactones

Uses

Once in popular use, feverfew has fallen into considerable disuse; even its name no longer seems to fit. It is also hard to find, even at herbal outlets. If you are lucky enough to get it, try the warm infusion for colic, flatulence, eructations, indigestion, flu, colds, fever, ague, freckles, age spots, and alcoholic DTs. A cold extract has a tonic effect. The flowers in particular show a purgative action. Effective remedy against opium taken too liberally.

Infusion: Use 1 heaping tsp. of the herb with 1 cup water. Take 1 to 2 cups, as indicated. For DTs, take 15 to 40 drops, as often as required.

Relieves headaches, migraines, arthritis, neuritis, neuralgia, indigestion, colds, and muscle tension. Eliminates worms. Stimulates the appetite, increases fluidity of lung an bronchial tube mucus, stimulates uterine contractions, and promotes menses.

It is the combination of ingredients in the feverfew plant that brings such effective relief. It works to inhibit the release of two inflammatory substances, serotonin and prostaglandins, both believed to contribute to the onset of migraines. By inhibiting these amines as well as the production of the chemical histamine, the herb controls inflammation that constricts the blood vessels in the head, and prevents blood vessel spasms which may contribute to headaches.

The plant is rich in sesquiterpene lactones, the principal one being parthenolide. Other constituents include essential oils, flavonoid glycosides, pinene derivatives and costic acid. Feverfew should be taken regularly to receive maximum benefit and protection from migraines.

The tea, drunk cold, may also relieve skin perspiration associated with migraines, and has been used to stimulate appetite, and improve digestion and kidney function.

Clinical tests have shown the use of feverfew may reduce of frequency and severity of headaches. It may be more effective than other nonsteroidal antiinflammatories (NSAIDS), like aspirin. Additional benefits include lower blood pressure, less stomach irritation and a renewed sense of well-being.

It may also relieve dizziness, tinnitus, and painful or sluggish menstruation. Its extracts have been claimed to relieve asthma, coughs, dermatitis and worms.

Parts Used: Leaves and flowers in extract, infusion, and dried in capsules.

Common Use: The herb has historically been used as remedy for headache, inflammation and as a general substitute for ailments treated with aspirin. Its most popular use is for the prevention of migraine headaches and associated symptoms. Pregnant women should not use the herb, and some people have developed mouth ulcers or experienced loss of taste from eating the fresh leaves.

Warning

Do not use for migraine resulting from a weak, deficiency condition. Seek medical advice.

May cause dermatitis or allergic reactions. Mouth sores are common. Some people have developed mouth ulcers while taking feverfew. Discontinue use if this occurs. Usually this condition comes from the fresh leaves, try sauteing the leaves first.

Patients taking blood thinning drugs should avoid taking feverfew because it can affect the clotting times of the blood.

Bibliography

Back to Eden, by Jethro Kloss; pgs., 126-127.
The Herbalist Almanac, by Clarence Meyer, pgs., 24, 152, 186.
Complete Herbal & English Physician, by Nicholas Culpeper, pgs., 72-73.
Earl Mindell’s Herb Bible, by Earl Mindell, pgs., 94-96.
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, pgs., 102, 132-133.
Indian Herbalogy of North America, by Alma R. Hutchens, pgs., 125-126.
American Folk Medicine, by Clarence Meyer, pg., 287.
Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants, by Steven Foster and James A. Duke., pgs., 84.
Country Home Book of Herbs, Meredith Books, edited by Molly Culbertson, pgs., 52, 96.
Planetary Herbology, by Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., O.M.D., pgs., 85, 123, 159.
The Rodale Herb Book, edited by William H. Hylton, pgs., 281, 440-443.
The Herb Book, by John Lust, pgs., 195-196, 573, 574.
Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., pg., 52.
Herb Gardening, compiled by The Robison York State Herb Garden, pgs., 59, 61.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Fenugreek (trigonella foenum-graecum)

Help for High Cholesterol

Fast facts: minimizes symptoms of menopause, relieves constipation, controls diabetes, reduces cholesterol, soothes sore throat pain and coughs, eases minor indigestion, relieves diarrhea

From ancient times through the late 19th century, fenugreek played a major role in herbal healing. Then it fell by the wayside. Now things are once again looking up for the herb whose taste is an odd combination of bitter celery and maple syrup. Modern scientific research has found that fenugreek can help reduce cholesterol levels, control diabetes and minimize the symptoms of menopause.

The ancient Greeks fed this herb to horses and cattle. The Romans then started using it, too, calling it “Greek hay.” (In Latin, “Greek hay” is foenum-graecum, and that evolved into “fenugreek.”) As fenugreek spread around the ancient Mediterranean, physicians learned that its seeds, like many seeds, contain a gummy substance called mucilage. Mixed with water, mucilage expands and becomes a gelatinous soother for irritated tissues.

In India, the herb was incorporated into curry blends. India’s traditional Ayurvedic physicians prescribed it to nursing mothers to increase their milk. In American folk medicine, fenugreek was considered a potent menstruation promoter. It became a key ingredient in Lydia E. Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound — one of 19th-century America’s most popular patent medicines for “female weakness” (menstrual discomforts). Today, fenugreek is most widely used in the United States as a source of imitation maple flavor. But this may change as its medicinal value becomes better known.

Almost a century after Lydia Pinkham’s death, scientists have confirmed that fenugreek seeds contain chemicals (diosgenin and estrogenic isoflavones) similar to the female sex hormone estrogen. Loss of estrogen causes menopausal symptoms, so adding fenugreek to the diet might help minimize them. Estrogen can also cause breast swelling. “One woman told me her breasts grew larger after she started eating fenugreek sprouts,” says James A. Duke, Ph.D., a botanist retired from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and author of The CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs.

Cholesterol buster … and more Several studies have shown that fenugreek reduces cholesterol in laboratory animals, and Indian researchers have shown the same effect in people with high cholesterol levels. The people in one Indian study added about four ounces a day of powdered fenugreek seeds to their diet for 20 days. During that time their total cholesterol levels and their levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol fell significantly. At the same time their high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good”) cholesterol levels remained unaffected. “There’s no question that fenugreek reduces cholesterol,” says Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D., director of the American Phytotherapy Research Laboratory in Salt Lake City, Utah, and author of The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. Fenugreek also “has great promise in alleviating Type II (non- insulin-dependent) diabetes,” says Dr. Duke. And according to one study, it may also help people with Type I (insulin-dependent) diabetes. For ten days, Indian researchers added about four ounces of powdered fenugreek seeds a day to the diets of people with Type I diabetes, which requires daily insulin injections. The injections, however, did not entirely eliminate a key sign of the illness, sugar in their urine. With fenugreek added to their diet, their urinary sugar levels fell by 54 percent.

Fenugreek’s soothing mucilage can also help relieve sore throat pain, cough and minor indigestion. “Because its mucilage expands in the gut, it also adds bulk to the stool,” says Bernie Olin, Pharm.D., editor of The Lawrence Review of Natural Products, a St. Louis-based newsletter that summarizes scientific research on the medicinal value of herbs. “As a result, it can help treat constipation and diarrhea.”

To make a medicinal tea, gently boil two teaspoons of mashed seeds per cup of water, then simmer for ten minutes. Drink up to three cups a day. To improve the flavor, you can add sugar, honey, lemon, anise or peppermint.

Fenugreek is considered safe. But several of the conditions it helps — diabetes, elevated cholesterol and menopausal symptoms — require professional care. If you’d like to use this herb in addition to standard therapies, consult your physician. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) in the parsley family (Apiaceae) is a tall perennial native to the Mediterranean region, now cultivated worldwide as an annual or perennial.1 Two varieties of fennel are often used, common or bitter fennel and sweet fennel.1

History and Traditional Use

The modern uses of fennel in the United States and Germany stem from its traditional use in Greek medicine by Hippocrates and later by Dioscorides.2 Pliny the Elder recommended it for improving eyesight.3 Traditionally, fennel fruit and oil were used to relieve gas, to treat stomach trouble, and for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.1 Traditional Chinese medicine also utilizes fennel to treat cholera, backache, bedwetting, and severe snakebites.1 The oil can prevent pathogenic fungi from infecting stored fruits and vegetables.3 Tea made from crushed fennel seeds has been used as an eyewash.3

Modern Medicinal Use

The dried ripe fruit (or seed) and the oil that is obtained by steam distillation have similar medicinal applications. Both fennel seed and oil are approved by the German Commission E for stomach spasms, fullness, and gas, and for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.4 In Europe, fennel syrup is approved for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract in children.5 The current Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia (plants used in traditional Indian medicine) recommends fennel for anorexia, gassy colic in children, and dyspepsia (painful digestion).6 The Chinese pharmacopoeia acknowledges the use of fennel in vomiting, diarrhea, and severe menstrual cramps.7 Fennel oil contains compounds with estrogenic effects such as stimulating lactation (milk flow) and menstruation..8

Modern Consumer Use

Both the bitter and sweet fennel oils are used as fragrance components in creams, lotions, perfumes, soaps, and detergents.1 Fennel fruit can also be found in herbal teas or honey syrup. Sweet fennel is used in a variety of food and beverage products, including alcoholic drinks, meats, baked goods, processed vegetables,1 pickles, and candies.3

References

1 Leung AY., Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York: Wiley-Interscience; 1996.

2 Tanira MOM, Shah AH, Mohsin A, et al. Pharmacological and toxicological investigations on Foeniculum vulgare dried fruit extract in experimental animals. Phytother Res 1996;10:33&endash;6. Cited in: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J, editors. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000.

3 DerMarderosian A, Beutler JA. The Review of Natural Products: The Most Complete Source of Natural Product Information. 3nd ed. St Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons; 2002.

4 Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS, editors. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. The Complete German Commission E Monographs3Ž4Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; Boston: Integrative Medicine Communication; 1998.

5 ESCOP. “Foeniculi aetheroleum” and “Foeniculi fructus.” Monographs on the

Medicinal Uses of Plant Drugs. Exeter, U.K.: European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy 1997.

6 Karnick CR. Pharmacopoeial Standards of Herbal Plants. Delhi: Sri Satguru Publications; 1994.

7 Tu G, editor. Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China (English Edition) Beijing: Guangdong Science and Technology Press; 1992.

8 Malini T, et al. Indian Journal Physiol Pharmacol 1985; 29:21.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.