HERB

USAGE

SIDE EFFECTS/ADVERSE INTERACTIONS

Black Cohosh: (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Uses: Some studies report a decrease in hot flashes and other perimenopausal sym-ptoms such as PMS, painful periods, and other peri-menopausal symptoms. Though re-latively new in the US, this therapy has been used in Europe for over 40 years.

Dosage: .3 to 2 grams (capsules) or 2-4ml a day (tincture). 40mg standardized tablet extract once a day.

Side Effects: Some of the reported problems include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, joint pains, and altered heart rate.

Alert: Because it is thought to act like a “natural estrogen”, it is important that those who have a history of breast cancer, endometriosis, or endometrial cancer counsel their physician about this herb. This means there are possible complications with this herb combined with HRT (hormone-replacement therapy) or contraception. In addition, because long-term studies have not been conducted, it is recommended that it be used for NO MORE than 6 months. It takes 6 to 8 weeks for effect to be noticed.  TOP
 

Chaste-Tree Berry
(Vitex agnus-castus)  TOP

Uses: Hormonally bal-ances menstrual cycle, prevents heavy ble-eding during men-struation.

Dosage: .5-1.0 grams (fruit) three times a day

Side Effects: Few are known, but it may cause an acne-like rash or itch.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinesis)  TOP

Uses: Similar to black cohosh, for relief of hot flashes and uterine stimulant.

Dosage: 3-10 grams of sliced dried root/day; liquid: .5-2ml three times daily.

Side Effects: Since it contains anticoagulants (blood thinning) agents, it should be avoided when on other anticoagulation therapy for stroke prevention.

Uses: As a member of the pepper family from the Pacific islands, it is effective in treating anxiety for short-term relief. Usually found in liquid, capsules, or tablets, it must contain 70% kavalactone content.

Dosage: 2-4 grams three times a day up to 3 months. May take up to 4 weeks for peak effect.
 

Side Effects: May cause gastrointestinal side effects and skin allergies. The American Herbal Products Association advises avoidance from pregnant and lactating women. May also interact with alcohol and sleeping medications.

Uses: Indigenous to N. America, this herb is nicknamed "plant catheter". It's anti-estrogenic effects and hormonal effects are well documented as an alternative treatment for benign prostatic hypertropy and related urinary difficulties.

Dosage: Active ingredient must be 85-95% standardized fatty acids and sterols. Dose is 160 mg twice a day.
 

Side Effects: Avoid during pregnancy and lactation. Hormonal effects may affect oral contraceptives and hormonal replacement.

Uses: This N. American herb heavy in essential fatty acids is useful for anti-inflammatory qualities, PMS, as well as for skin disorders like eczema.

Dosage: Dose is 3-6 mg daily

Side Effects: Avoid if suffering from epilepsy or on medications for schizophrenia.

Uses: Belonging to the sesame family in S. Africa, medical researchers have found beneficial effects in reducing pain, inflammation, as well as improving appetite and digestion.

Side Effects: As a cardioactive herb, it can cause heart problems. It is also recommended to be avoided with ulcers and gallstones.

Uses: Similar to black cohosh, for relief of hot flashes and uterine stimulant.

Dosage: 3-10 grams of sliced dried root/day; liquid: .5-2ml three times daily.

Side Effects: Since it contains anticoagulants (blood thinning) agents, it should be avoided when on other anticoagulation therapy for stroke prevention.