An Introduction to Botanical Medicines: History Science Uses and Dangers

For those who want to make educated decisions about whether and when to use natural products this text explains the most current scientific evidence of the roles that plants can play in our health: how they can prevent modify or treat disease. Since antiquity humans have used botanicals to treat various conditions affecting their organ systems and this book is built around explaining which plants may be used for major ailments affecting the various systems. The increasing availability of botanicals on the market intended to be used as dietary supplements for health has been fueled by the publics demand for a more natural approach to healthcare. Unfortunately much of the information fed to the public on alternatives is based on anecdotal evidence (case stories) the advice of friends or media features that often do not stand up to standards for scientific evidence. In this book Al-Achi explains current research and science that exists - or remains lacking - for the various botanicals as healthcare products. He also details the potential misuse and the dangers of some herbal formulas. Photographs of 62 medicinal plants are included.For those who want to make educated decisions whether and when to use natural products this text explains the most current scientific evidence of the roles that plants can play in our health: how they can prevent modify or treat disease. Since antiquity humans have used botanicals to treat various conditions affecting their organ systems and this book is built around explaining which plants may be used for major ailments affecting the various systems. The increasing availability of botanicals on the market intended to be used as dietary supplements for health has been fueled by the publics demand for a more natural approach to healthcare. Unfortunately much of the information fed to the public on alternatives is based on anecdotal evidence (case studies) the advice of friends or media features that often do not stand up to standards for scientific evidence. In this book Al-Achi explains current research and science that exists - or remains lacking - for the various botanicals as healthcare products. He also details the potential misuse and the dangers of some herbal formulas. Photographs of 62 medicinal plants are included.Because of its evidentiary approach this book may serve also as a text for introductory college courses in the field of botanical medicine or as a supplemental general text for an alternative and complementary medicine course. The history leading to the use of botanicals in healthcare is described as are botanicals used in the treatment of cancer cardiovascular disease endocrine system disorders such as diabetes gastrointestinal problems mens and womens specific disorders infections chronic pain psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression and other health issues.