Posts from — December 2008

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herbA plant or part of a plant used for its flavor, scent, or potential therapeutic properties. Includes flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, seeds, stems, and roots. feverfew—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Originally a plant native to the Balkan mountains of Eastern Europe, feverfew—a short bush with daisy-like flowers—now grows throughout Europe, North America, and South America.

Common Names—fenugreek, fenugreek seed

Latin Name—Trigonella foenum-graecum

What It Is Used For

• Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also used for inducing childbirth.
• Today, it is used for diabetes and loss of appetite, and to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding women. It is also applied to the skin to treat inflammation.

How It Is Used

The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to form a paste that is applied to the skin.

What the Science Says

• A few small studies have found that fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of fenugreek for any other health condition.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Possible side effects of fenugreek when taken by mouth include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Fenugreek can cause irritation when applied to the skin.
• Given its historical use for inducing childbirth, women should use caution when taking fenugreek during pregnancy.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Fenugreek. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on December 28, 2006.
• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Leguminosae). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on December 28, 2006.
• Fenugreek seed. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs.
• Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:130-133.

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herbA plant or part of a plant used for its flavor, scent, or potential therapeutic properties. Includes flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, seeds, stems, and roots. ephedra—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Ephedra is an evergreen shrub-like plant native to Central Asia and Mongolia. The principal active ingredient, ephedrine, is a compound that can powerfully stimulate the nervous system and heart.

Common Names—ephedra, Chinese ephedra, ma huang

Latin Name—Ephedra sinica

What It Is Used For

• Ephedra has been used for more than 5,000 years in China and India to treat conditions such as colds, fever, flu, headaches, asthma, wheezing, and nasal congestion.
• It has also been an ingredient in many dietary supplements used for weight loss, increased energy, and enhanced athletic performance.

How It Is Used

The dried stems and leaves of the plant are used to create capsules, tablets, extracts, tinctures, and teas.

What the Science Says

• An NCCAM-funded study that analyzed phone calls to poison control centers found a higher rate of side effects from ephedra, compared with other herbal products.
• Other studies and systematic reviews have found an increased risk of heart, psychiatric, and gastrointestinal problems, as well as high blood pressure and stroke, with ephedra use.
• According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is little evidence of ephedra’s effectiveness, except for short-term weight loss. However, the increased risk of heart problems and stroke outweighs any benefits.

Side Effects and Cautions

• In 2004, the FDA banned the U.S. sale of dietary supplements containing ephedra. The FDA found that these supplements had an unreasonable risk of injury or illness—particularly cardiovascular complications—and a risk of death. The ban does not apply to traditional Chinese herbal remedies or to products like herbal teas regulated as conventional foods.
• Products regulated as drugs that contain chemically synthesized ephedrine are not dietary supplements and are not covered by this rule. These include drugs used for the short-term treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and allergic reactions.
• Between 1995 and 1997, the FDA received more than 900 reports of possible ephedra toxicity. Serious adverse events such as stroke, heart attack, and sudden death were reported in 37 cases.
• Using ephedra may worsen many health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, sleep disorders, and diabetes.
• Taking ephedra can also result in nausea, anxiety, headache, psychosis, kidney stones, tremors, dry mouth, irregular heart rhythms, heart damage, high blood pressure, restlessness, sleep problems, irritation of the stomach, and increased urination.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should avoid taking ephedra.
• Ephedra use may lead to serious health problems when used with other dietary supplements or medicines.
• Combining ephedra with caffeine increases the risk of potentially serious side effects.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Ephedra. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Web site. Accessed at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/alerts/ephedra/consumeradvisory.htm on July 9, 2007.
• Ephedra (Ma Huang). In: Coates P, Blackman M, Cragg G, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2005:189-195.
• Ephedra (Ephedra sinica)/Ma huang. Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on July 3, 2007.
• Ephedra. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:110-117.
• Ephedra. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on July 6, 2007.

Doctors of naturopathic medicine (NDs) are trained as primary care providers and, as such, their scope of practice may include…

• Nutrition
• Botanical medicine
• Physical medicine
• Homeopathy
• Physical and clinical diagnosis
• Laboratory diagnosis and diagnostic imaging
• Emergency medicine
• Psychology
• Pharmacology
• Minor surgery
• Acupuncture and Oriental medicine (Only in scope of practice in a few states.)

Naturopathic physicians learn to treat all aspects of family health and wellness, from pediatrics to geriatrics. They tailor their therapies to meet the individual needs of each patient, factoring in physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects before prescribing a course of treatment. Because they view natural remedies as complementary as well as primary, naturopathic physicians cooperate with other medical professionals, referring patients to allopathic medical doctors, surgeons and other specialists whenever appropriate.

Because today’s naturopathic doctors believe in understanding patients from the cellular-level up, they actively pursue the latest biochemical findings relating to the workings of the body and the dynamics of botanical medicines, nutrition, homeopathy and other natural therapies.

Their diagnoses and therapeutics are science-based and increasingly evidence-based. While the training and approach of naturopathic physicians is progressive, naturopathic physicians practice in ways reminiscent of old-fashioned family doctors. They take the time and make the effort to learn about each patient and his/her family.

This means seeing fewer patients a day. Naturopathic physicians are likely to schedule no more than 10 appointments per day, a practice that benefits both patient and physician.

Because naturopathic medicine acknowledges and respects the interconnection of all living things, many naturopathic doctors bring a social consciousness to their work and personal lives. They are involved in wellness education, public health concerns and volunteer programs in their communities. Many advocate for the recognition of natural medicine as an affordable, effective medicine for underserved communities domestically and abroad. They often support environmental causes such as the preservation of ancient forests as untapped resources for botanical medicines.

Source: Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herbA plant or part of a plant used for its flavor, scent, or potential therapeutic properties. Includes flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, seeds, stems, and roots. fenugreek—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The first recorded use of fenugreek is described on an ancient Egyptian papyrus dated to 1500 B.C. Fenugreek seed is commonly used in cooking.

Common Names—fenugreek, fenugreek seed

Latin Name—Trigonella foenum-graecum

What It Is Used For

• Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also used for inducing childbirth.
• Today, it is used for diabetes and loss of appetite, and to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding women. It is also applied to the skin to treat inflammation.

How It Is Used

The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to form a paste that is applied to the skin.

What the Science Says

• A few small studies have found that fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of fenugreek for any other health condition.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Possible side effects of fenugreek when taken by mouth include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Fenugreek can cause irritation when applied to the skin.
• Given its historical use for inducing childbirth, women should use caution when taking fenugreek during pregnancy.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Fenugreek. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on December 28, 2006.
• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Leguminosae). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on December 28, 2006.
• Fenugreek seed. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs.
• Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:130-133.

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herbA plant or part of a plant used for its flavor, scent, or potential therapeutic properties. Includes flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, seeds, stems, and roots. echinacea–common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. There are nine known species of echinacea, all of which are native to the United States and southern Canada. The most commonly used, Echinacea purpurea, is believed to be the most potent.

Common Names—echinacea, purple coneflower, coneflower, American coneflower

Latin Names—Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida

What It Is Used For

• Echinacea has traditionally been used to treat or prevent colds, flu, and other infections.
• Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system to help fight infections.
• Less commonly, echinacea has been used for wounds and skin problems, such as acne or boils.

How It Is Used

The aboveground parts of the plant and roots of echinacea are used fresh or dried to make teas, squeezed (expressed) juice, extracts, or preparations for external use.

What the Science Says

• Study results are mixed on whether echinacea effectively treats colds or flu. For example, two NCCAM-funded studies did not find a benefit from echinacea, either as Echinacea purpurea fresh-pressed juice for treating colds in children, or as an unrefined mixture of Echinacea angustifolia root and Echinacea purpurea root and herb in adults. However, other studies have shown that echinacea may be beneficial in treating upper respiratory infections.
• Most studies to date indicate that echinacea does not appear to prevent colds or other infections.
• NCCAM is continuing to support the study of echinacea for the treatment of upper respiratory infections. NCCAM is also studying echinacea for its potential effects on the immune system.

Side Effects and Cautions

• When taken by mouth, echinacea usually does not cause side effects. However, some people experience allergic reactions, including rashes, increased asthma, and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction). In clinical trials, gastrointestinal side effects were most common.
• People are more likely to experience allergic reactions to echinacea if they are allergic to related plants in the daisy family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies. Also, people with asthma or atopy (a genetic tendency toward allergic reactions) may be more likely to have an allergic reaction when taking echinacea.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Barrett BP, Brown RL, Locken K, et al. Treatment of the common cold with unrefined echinacea: a randomized, doubleblind, placebo-controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2002;137(12):939-946.
• Echinacea. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on June 29, 2007.
• Echinacea (E. angustifolia DC, E. pallida, E. purpurea). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on June 28, 2007.
• Echinacea. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:88-102.
• Fugh-Berman A. Echinacea for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory infections. Seminars in Integrative Medicine. 2003;1(2):106-111.
• Taylor JA, Weber W, Standish L, et al. Efficacy and safety of echinacea in treating upper respiratory tract infections in children: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2003;290(21):2824-2830.

Naturopathic medicine is dedicated to the study and celebration of nature’s healing powers. It is as old as healing itself and as new as today’s medical breakthroughs. It is a dynamic philosophy as well as a profession that recognizes the interconnection and interdependence of all living things. It utilizes the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies to treat illness and to promote wellness by viewing the body as an integrated whole.

Naturopathic medicine is defined by principles rather than by methods or modalities. Above all, it honors the body’s innate wisdom to heal.

Naturopathic Principles

Naturopathic physicians practice the six fundamental principles of naturopathic medicine:

* The Healing Power of Nature - Trust in the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself.
* Identify and Treat the Causes - Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying cause.
* First Do No Harm - Utilize the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies.
* Doctor as Teacher - Educate patients in the steps to achieving and maintaining health.
* Treat the Whole Person - View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions.
* Prevention - Focus on overall health, wellness and disease prevention.

Source: Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges

Founded by a group of extraordinary naturopathic visionaries in the year 2000, Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine is the newest naturopathic medical college in North America. The institute is committed to small class sizes, a mentorship model of education and an innovative academic curriculum. The Vancouver area is recognized worldwide as one of the top quality-of-life regions and boasts the highest per-capita investment in complementary and alternative health care in the country. The campus is located on the banks of the Fraser River, with easy access to both the city and the countryside.

Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine Degrees Offered

• Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

Full-time (4-year) and part-time (6-year) tracks available

Contact Information:

Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine (BINM)
300-435 Columbia Street
New Westminster, BC, Canada V3L 5N8
Phone: 604.777.9981
Fax: 604.777.9982
E-mail: info@binm.org
www.binm.org

National College of Naturopathic Medicine has been a recognized authority in providing ground-breaking naturopathic medical education for over 50 years. The college features an experienced and accomplished faculty, and is renowned for its excellence in clinical education as well as its tight-knit community. Many National College of Naturopathic Medicine alumni are at the forefront of natural medicine, and have gone on to become international leaders in natural medicine education, research and community health. The campus and clinics are located in Portland, Oregon, a leader among ’green’ cities worldwide, and are close to many natural wonders.

National College of Naturopathic Medicine Degrees Offered

* Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
* Master of Science in Oriental Medicine
* Masters of Acupuncture

Contact Information:

National College of Naturopathic Medicine
049 SW Porter
Portland, OR 97201
(503) 499-4343
Web site: http://www.ncnm.edu/

President: Dr. William J. Keppler, Ph.d
Approved by the State of Oregon Naturopathic Board of Examiners
Accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, Inc.
Candidate for accreditation with the Northwest Association of Universities and Colleges

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about dandelion—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Dandelion greens are edible and a rich source of vitamin A. Dandelion has been used in many traditional medical systems, including Native American and traditional Arabic medicine.

Common Names—dandelion, lion’s tooth, blowball

Latin Name—Taraxacum officinale

What It Is Used For

• Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions.
• Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney “tonic,” as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.

How It Is Used

The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a cooked green, and the flowers are used to make wine.

What the Science Says

There is no compelling scientific evidence for using dandelion as a treatment for any medical condition.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Dandelion use is generally considered safe. However, there have been rare reports of upset stomach and diarrhea, and some people are allergic to the plant.
• People with an inflamed or infected gallbladder, or blocked bile ducts, should avoid using dandelion.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Sources

• Dandelion. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on July 2, 2007.
• Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on June 28, 2007.
• Dandelion root with herb. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:359-366.

Contact Information:

Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
1255 Sheppard Ave, E
North York, ON M2K 1E2
(416) 498-1255
Web site: http://www.ccnm.edu/

Acting President and CEO: Bob Bernhardt, BSC, Med, Llnc-ED. Kenady
Accredited in 2000 with the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, Inc.