Medicinal Uses: * Anxiety * Sleep/Insomnia
Properties: * Analgesic * Anodyne * AntiCancer * Antispasmodic * Antitussive * Nervine * Psychedelic * Sedative
Parts Used: Dried leaves
Constituents: bitter latex containing (lactucin, lactucone, lactupicrin), a trace of an alkaloid, triterpenes, iron, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C. Wild lettuce is a valuable remedy for insomnia and muscular arthritis.
The common name "lettuce opium", as it was known in the earlier official pharmacopoeias, refers to the potent milky latex produced by the stems and leaves. There has been a recent internet driven surge of popularity of wild lettuce as a recreational herb, however wild lettuce will disappoint those only looking for a legal high similar to opium. The powers that be have outlawed all the truly narcotic herbs, leaving only the less potent ones available to use without fear of running afoul of the law. That said, this relaxing and sedative herb can be a ally for those needing help to induce sleep, and calm restlessness and anxiety.
SKULLCAP:
Skullcap Herbal Use and Medicinal Properties
Skullcap is a powerful medicinal herb, it is used in alternative medicine as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, slightly astringent, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine, sedative and strongly tonic. Some valuable constituents found in the plant are Scutellarin, Catalpol, other Volatile oils, bitter iridoids and Tannins. Scientific studies are proving this to be a valuable plant in many areas for mental disorders. Skullcap is used in the treatment of a wide range of nervous conditions including epilepsy, insomnia, hysteria, anxiety, delerium tremens, withdrawal from barbiturates and tranquilisers. A medicinal infusion of the plant is used to promote menstruation, it should not be given to pregnant women since it can induce a miscarriage, the infusion is also used in the treatment of throat infections. The infusion is given for nervous headaches, neuralgia and in headache arising from incessant coughing, pain, and inducing sleep when necessary, without any unpleasant symptoms following. Skullcap is currently being used as an alternative medicine to treat ADD and a number of nerve disorders.
Cautions - Should be used with some caution since in overdose it causes giddiness, stupor, confusion and twitching. Skullcap has been linked to liver damage, though it is suspected that the source of damage was actually from Germander being substituted for Skullcap. Use in moderation and avoid if you have liver problems.
Folklore
Well known among the Cherokee and other Native American tribes, as a strong emmenagogue and female medicinal herb. Used in some tribes as a ceremonial plant to introduce young girls into womanhood. Once believed of use in the treatment of rabies and schizophrenia. Also used to induce visions.
CRAMP BARK:
Cramp bark can be used for most spasmodic pains but is specific for spasmodic and congestive conditions of the female genitourinary tract. It is indicated when pelvic pains extend down the thighs and are accompanied by nausea. The spasms are usually worse lying on the affected side, in warm rooms and in the evening; and better in open air and from resting.
Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Astringent, (c) Nervine, (d) Cerebrospinal vasostimulant, (e) Hypotensive, beta 2 receptor agonist, (f) Carminative, (g) Restores sympathetic and parasympathetic balance in voluntary and involuntary muscle spasms (g) Anti-inflamatory.
Cramp bark is used for bronchial, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and skeletal muscle spasms. Due to its astringent and antispasmodic nature it is useful for menstrual cramps with excessive blood loss. Cramp bark's astringent action also benefits atonic conditions of the pelvic organs, like uterine prolapse. It is also helpful with asthma and threatened miscarriage where there is a spastic uterus and has been used to prevent habitual abortions, morning sickness, premature contractions, and hemorrhage during labor and post-partum. As a skeletal muscle relaxant, it is wonderful for leg cramps.
Viburnum prunifolium (Black haw), a relative in the Caprifoliaceae family, is used similarly although V. opulus is thought to be a stronger antispasmodic. Although research has shown dose-dependent uterine antispasmodic action both in vivo and in vitro with V. prunifolium extract V. opulus extract was shown, in vitro on rat uteri, to be four times more active than V. prunifolium at relaxing uterine contractions. V. prunifolium contains the antispasmodic constituent, esculetin, and V. opulus contains the more potent antispasmodic, viopudial. Both species have demonstrated uterine sedative activity. Initially researchers thought V. prunifolium contained salicin; which was proven later to be arbutin. Viburnum prunifolium contains beta-sitosterol which is a phytoestrogenic sterol.
A volatile oil extracted from V. opulus has uterine sedative activity.
Contraindications: The leaves and fruits contain a bitter principle, viburine, which may cause gastroenteritis. Cramp bark should not be taken with blood thinning agents because of the coumarin constituents in the plant. It may cause hypotension in large doses or even in average doses if given to previously hypotensive individuals. The berries have been known to cause death. Cramp bark should not be used in pregnancy unless under the guidance of a qualified health care professional.
DAMIANA:
Properties: Mild purgative, diuretic, tonic, stimulant, hypochondriastic, aphrodisiac, alterative, aperient, carminative, cholagogue, emmenagogue, laxative, nervine, urinary antiseptic and yang tonic.
Indicated for Sexual stimulation, increases energy, oxygenates genital area, asthma, depression, impotence and menstrual problems. Nervous dyspepsia, atonic constipation, debility and lethargy. Specifically indicated in anxiety neurosis with a predominant sexual factor.
Damiana appears to be safe when taken occasionally as a sex booster. It has a long history of traditional medicinal and food use with no harmful consequences reported for moderate quantities.
It is thought that large quantities of Damiana taken internally may cause insomnia and headaches and in some cases liver damage. However, no rigorous scientific studies have examined the effects of long-term use of this herb.
VERVAIN:
USES
Although scientists and researchers have not adequately researched the therapeutic properties of vervain, herbalists as well as the common people are well aware of its advantages. Vervain is known to have an effect on parasympathetic nervous system and also invigorates the uterus. The vervain is a bitter herb and hence it enhances the digestive process. However, here is a word of caution: if taken in excess dosages, the herb may lead to vomiting. Vervain possesses verbenalin that is said to be a gentle purgative and is suspected to be accountable for the vomiting.
Vervain is also considered to be an effective stimulant for digestion and helps the body to soak in the elements in the ingested foodstuff. At the same time, the herb is valued as a restorative or recuperative medication for the nervous system and is hence frequently recommended by the herbal medicine practitioners to treat nervous tension or anxiety. According to herbalists, vervain possesses anti-depressant properties and so it is particularly used to cure anxiety and the fatigued nerves owing to prolonged period of trauma.
Significantly, vervain is considered to be a very useful stimulant or tonic for people recuperating from persistent ailments as the herb not only improves the digestion process, but also soothes and restores the nervous system. In addition, vervain is known to offer relief from headaches and is particularly advantageous for women. This function of the herb has led the Chinese herbal medicine practitioners to recommend it for treating migraine problems related to the menstrual cycle.
In addition to the above mentioned benefits from the herb, vervain has several other therapeutic advantages. For instance, the herb is often recommended by herbalists to treat jaundice, asthma, gallstone, pre-menstrual anxiety, insomnia and even fevers, especially at the beginning of flu. The herb has several benefits for women. Vervain is also thought to contract the vaginal muscles during labor and also enhance lactation in the post-natal period.
CONSTITUENTS
- Bitter iridoids (verbenin, verbenalin)
- Volatile oil
- Alkaloids
- Mucilage
- Tannins
APPLICATIONS
As vervain has multiple medicinal uses, it may be applied in numerous ways. The herb's aerial parts are most effective for their therapeutic properties and they are taken as infusion and tincture. Externally, they are also applied as poultice and ointments. They also form an effectual mouthwash.
Aerial parts / leaves:
INFUSION: The infusion prepared from the aerial parts of vervain may be taken to treat insomnia, nervousness, anxiety as well as enhance sweating and invigorate the immune system during fevers. The infusion is also useful to enhance the liver function and also treat poor appetite and sluggish digestive performance. Many herbalists also recommend to sip the vervain infusion with a view to stimulate muscle contraction during labor and help to increase lactation in the post-natal scenario.
TINCTURE: The tincture prepared with the aerial parts of vervain may be taken separately or blended with oats to treat nervousness, fatigue owing to anxiety as well as depression. The tincture is also an effective remedy for poor digestion, toxicity, jaundice and may also be taken as a tonic to stimulate the functioning of the liver. In addition, the vervain tincture may be blended with other herbs and taken to cure stones, disorders linked to surplus uric acid like in the case of gout.
POULTICE: Pads soaked in vervain tincture may be applied externally on the body areas affected by insect stings, alleviatesprains and also to cure bruises.
OINTMENT: Ointments or lotions prepared with vervain are effective in curing eczema, injuries and even weeping sores. The ointment may also be applied to get relief from excruciating neuralgia or nerve pain.
MOUTH WASH: Infusion prepared with vervain aerial parts may also be used as a mouthwash to treat ulcers in the mouth and soft, spongy gums.
VALERIAN:
Valerian is found throughout Europe and was cultivated in North America where it is now found growing wild along the roads of the East Coast. The herb is a potent calmative agent and tranquilizer that is used for nervousness, insomnia and anxiety. Its sedative effect makes it useful in relieving headaches, joint, and muscle pain. A recent study found valerian root tea to have powerful antioxidant activity.
Medical Issues Alleviated by Valerian Root
People looking for organic remedies can rely on valerian root tea as part of a healthy diet for aiding with issues such as:
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Insomnia
- Menstrual cramps and irregularities
- Stomach irregularities like IBS
- Mild to moderate pain
- Dry skin
- Muscle cramps and spasms
Healthy Valerian Root Dosage
Too much of anything isn’t good for you, even something as beneficial as valerian tea. At the same time, if you don’t drink enough of it, you’re not going to get the most from it. Finding an ideal valerian root dosage is necessary for anyone looking to start a healthy tea regimen. One cup, especially before bed, is generally a good dose for most adults. Discuss drinking the tea with a doctor or nutritionist. They may advise to drink more or less depending on your health issues and goals.
Valerian root also works great on an as-needed basis. Drink it if you have a headache, migraine or anxiety attack and enjoy immediate benefits.
Spend Less, Drink More
Drinking tea is a lifestyle that leads to better holistic health. For example, drinking valerian on a regular basis an hour before bed can improve not only the quantity, but also the quality of sleep. So have plenty of tea on hand and purchase a supply that will last you for months.
ST JOHN'S WORT:
Hypericum perforatum
Note: St. John's Wort is considered suitable for the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression, not severe depression that interferes with the ability to function in daily life. The use of St. John's Wort or other herbs is not a substitute for other medical treatment in cases of serious illness. Many conditions are not appropriate for self-diagnosis or self-medication and require the supervision of qualified health care practitioners. Please contact your healthcare practitioner before taking this herb.
Actions
The traditional nerve tonic action of this herb has been confirmed by modern research into its antidepressant activity. Antiviral activity has also been demonstrated against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, Epstein, Barr virus, influenza types A and B and retroviruses, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Topical preparations of St. John's wort have shown antibacterial, astringent and wound-healing activity and have been used to treat skin inflammation, burns, ulcers, nerve pain and damage, and haemorrhoids.
Conditions commonly used for
An analysis of 23 clinical studies involving a total of 1757 patients concluded that St. John's wort is significantly more effective than placebo and as effective as standard antidepressant medications in the treatment of mild or moderate depression. It also causes fewer side effects than standard antidepressants.
- Mild to moderate depression
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), obsessive compulsive disorder, and menopausal symptoms
- Anxiety
- Sleep disturbances including insomnia and hypersomnia
- Wounds and burns, herpes blisters, shingles, haemorrhoids, skin inflammation and nerve damage (topical application)
- Possible supportive therapy for viral infections such as herpes simplex, influenza, Epstein-Barr, mononucleosis, and HIV
The recommended preparation of St. John's Wort is an extract standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin. As an antidepressant, the recommended amount is 300 to 500 mg three times/day with meals for a minimum of four to six weeks.
Topically, the infused oil or fluid extract is used as directed.
Cautions, Contraindications and Side Effects
- St. John's wort is well tolerated by most people, and there are no reports of major side effects with recommended doses. Side effects are usually mild. They may include: Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, itching, skin rash, sleep problems, tiredness.
- Do not take during pregnancy or while breast-feeding
- St. John's wort may cause photosensitivity in people taking very large doses. As a precaution, people with fair skin and people taking other medications (eg. Tetracycline) that can also cause photosensitivity should use a sunscreen with a skin protection factor (SPF) of at least 15; they should also not use sun-lamps, tanning beds or booths while taking St. John's Wort.
- St. John's Wort may affect the way certain medications work by increasing detoxification through the liver or via other mechanisms. If you are taking prescribed medication, please seek the advice of your qualified health care practitioner before taking St. John's Wort. According to the studies, St. John's Wort may lower blood levels of indinavir (used to treat HIV infection), cyclosporine (used to prevent organ transplant rejection), digoxin (a heart medication) and theophylline (an asthma medication).
- Because St. John's Wort works on various neurotransmitters including serotonin, it is advised that you do not take it at the same time as prescribed antidepressant drugs. Combining these may result in the development of symptoms of serotonergic syndrome, which include headache, dizziness, nausea, agitation, and anxiety.
BLACK COHOSH:
Black Cohosh has a long traditional use for female complaints. It has oestrogen modulating activity in the body and has the capacity to calm the uterus or stimulate contractions in pregnancy. It exerts antispasmodic and antiinflammatory actions throughout the body and is a sedative and nerve tonic.
Conditions commonly used for
- Premenstrual abdominal pain and dysmenorrhoea
- Menopausal symptoms including depression, anxiety, hot flushes, ringing in the ears, headache, vaginal dryness, vertigo, palpitations and insomnia
- Arthritis (both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis)
- Muscular and nerve pain
- Nervous conditions
- Whole powdered herb (as capsule or tablet), 40 mg per day
- For commercially available standardised concentrated products containing Black Cohosh follow the dosing instructions on the product labelling.
- Mild gastrointestinal symptoms are the most common side effects. They include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Other side effects include dizziness, visual dimness, headaches, tremors, joint pain, and slow heart beat.
- Black Cohosh is contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding and children.
- The botanical is appropriate for patients not suited for HRT including those with a history of breast cancer, unexplained uterine bleeding, liver and gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and fibrocystic breast disease.
- Although Black Cohosh reportedly possesses oestrogenic properties, no clinically significant interactions between it and conventional medications (including hormone replacement therapies) have been reported in the literature to date.