GHS Natural Health Blog

Your Health questions answered: Alison Rafter, natural health practitioner specialises in medical herbalism, iridology and massage therapy.

Q: I have exams coming up and I am looking for something natural that will help improve my memory and my ability to cope with extended periods of study so I don’t runout of steam. Rebecca D. SA

A: The herb gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is an excellent brain and memory tonic. It is one of the most important rejuvenating herbs in Indian herbal medicine (Ayurveda) and, despite its name, contains no caffeine or cola. It is particularly valued for revitalising nerve and brain cells, promoting calmness and clarity, improving poor memory and lack of concentration and increasing meditation ability. It is also valued as a brain food, improving intelligence and reflexes by increasing blood supply to the brain. You can use this herb to enhance mental alertness, clarity and energy levels, without getting any of the ‘jitteriness’ some people experience with coffee. 

Q: I am a mum of three kids and work three days a week and study part time. My husband is often away on business and I am at the end of my tether. What do you recommend? Megan S. NSW 

A: It sounds like you are suffering from adrenal fatigue, commonly referred to as ‘burn out’. This condition is characterised by feeling tired, rundown, overwhelmed or anxious for no reason. You may also have trouble getting up in the morning and feel like you are constantly fighting another infection. Indian herbal medicine provides possibly the best fix, with the herb ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Its active constituents not only directly rejuvenate the adrenal glands, but also put a stop to the vicious cycle that is symptomatic of adrenal fatigue. Studies have shown that ashwagandha increases stamina, eliminates anxiety and mental fatigue, and improves immunity, mood and sex drive

Q:  I suffer from vaginal thrush and every time I think it’s gone, it comes back again. I am sick of taking medications and creams. What can I do to rid this extremely irritating and frustrating condition from my body? Sonja H. VIC

A: Thrush (candidiasis) is one of 70 different species of the Candida (Candida albicans) yeast. This yeast usually lives harmlessly in small amounts in the bowel, mouth and vagina. However, when there is an overgrowth (sometimes after antibiotic or oral contraceptive use, or with some immune related disorders), symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning or thick white discharge may appear. The area may also become red or swollen. Also be aware that repeated episodes can simply be caused by re-infection by your partner who has not been treated.

Pau D’arco (Tabebuia heptaphylla) is a South American herb with antifungal activity. Traditionally used to treat a wide range of conditions, it recently has been found to be effective against Candida yeast infections when combined with an appropriate diet. It is available both as a tea and in capsules.

Pau D’arco can be combined with golden seal (Hydrastis canadensis). This soothing herb has anti-inflammatory properties. Its antimicrobial action also gives the herb its rightly earned reputation for being a natural antibiotic. Golden seal’s medicinal value and high demand has made it rare and this, compounded by the fact that the root takes three to five years to mature, is reflected in its high price.

To treat thrush, you also need to look at what you are eating. Steer clear of yeast, sugar and processed foods. Fresh is always best. You may also want to take a probiotic, such as acidophilus or bifidus, but take these at least 2 hours apart from Pau D’arco.

 Also, avoid using soaps or perfumed sprays in the genital area. Cotton underwear and loose clothing will also help.

Article thanks to Herbs and Health Magazine Australia

Your health questions answered by Kerrie Marks BHSc (Comp Med) , Dipl Nutr, DBM – natural health practitioner specialising in herbal medicine and nutrition.

Q: I am currently recovering from a cold. When my symptoms started, I began taking Echinacea, and I   found my sniffles only lasted a couple of days! Can I continue taking Echinacea to prevent another cold? Maria, QLD. 

A: I’m glad the Echinacea was such a great help! However, a 1999 review of Echinacea’s use in upper respiratory tract infections suggested that the current evidence is stronger for supporting the use of Echinacea in acute treatment and quite modest for its use in prevention. I suggest you try Astragalus, a traditional Chinese herb that is useful in enhancing the body’s immune function during convalescence. It can be taken long-term over the winter months to build up your resistance and reduce the likelihood of catching a second bout of the cold or flu. But don’t throw away the Echinacea! Keep it and some vitamin C in the medicine cabinet for the family to take at the first signs of a cold.

Q: I know there are a few herbs that help boost breast milk production. Is one better than another? Chantelle, VIC. 

A: The main herbs used to boost breast milk production are Blessed Thistle, Fenugreek and Asparagus racemosa root. All are equally good in this regard, so your choice comes down to which of their other properties would be most beneficial. For example, Blessed Thistle is a gentle liver tonic that, due to its bitter action, may also stimulate the appetite of a baby who is a poor feeder. Fenugreek is an expectorant that can help relieve excess mucus and coughs, so might help if you have a cold or flu. Asparagus helps with minor menstrual irregularities and lightens bleeding, so may be the best choice if your period tends to be heavy or painful.

Article thanks to Herbs and Health Magazine Australia

Herbal medicine or Herbalism is the component of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (C.A.M.) which has to do with the use of herbs and their extracts for various conditions therapy and it is based on traditional and folk recipes from all over the world. Medical herbal products are used more and more in the modern western world for natural healing. Many herbs have been used for centuries and have been proved to be beneficial for various diseases treatment. Herbs are natural products, but this often leads to a common misunderstanding. Herbs and herbal extracts and supplements are not harmless. They should be used only under the guidance of an experienced herbalist, physician, GP or doctor.

In order herbs to be used safely it advisable to observe the next precautions:

• Ask your doctor for advice whenever you have any doubt.
• Ask your doctor for the appropriate dose.
• Women during pregnancy should be very careful and never use any herbal medicine without the permission of the responsible gynaecologist.
• Diseased persons who take drugs, should be very cautious when using herbal products because of possible interaction with the drugs.
• Beware of fraud or adulterated products.
• Special attention should be paid when buying herbal products on internet.
• Search for reliable information and ignore unconfirmed rumors about herbs, before trying any remedy.

Probably you do not know what is the definition of the word Herb, but it is most possible to have drunk an herbal tea or used a nutrition supplement. Herbs are called the plants or usually the useful part of them that are used for therapeutic or alimentary purposes. Herbs they have special scent or favor and this why they have drawn our ancestors’ attention. Nowadays, there is a fast growing market which merchandise herbs (fresh or usually dried), herbal teas or products with herbal substances as principal ingredients (tablets, powders etc.).

There are a few hundreds herbs that grow all over the world. Several of them have therapeutic attributes and are used as natural or pharmaceutical medicine, many others are used only in cooking and some dozens are harmless for external uses but very dangerous if taken internally. Although herbs are generally wild plants that grow in mountains, forests or leas, some of them can easily grow in a home garden or even indoor! Some of the most popular and commonly used herbs are: Basil (Ocimum Basilicum), Chamomile (Chamaemilum nubile), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), Garlic (Tulbhagia violacea), Peppermint (Mentha piperita) and Ginger (Pelargonium x nervosum).

As mentioned above, herbal teas and nutrition supplements can promote general health and wellness. If you search for the maximum success you should combine the herbal extracts digestion with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Herbs are great immune system booster and body functions regulators. Moreover, they offer essential nutrients and promote heart’s operation. What is more, herbs have anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties, while they can contribute to a better vision, memory and energy. Additionally, herbal medical products believed to be effectual digestive enhancer. Last but not least, drinking herbal teas can help you achieve calmness, clear mind and improve quality of sleep.

Reference: George Kakaris