Posts from — January 2009

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb thunder god vine—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Thunder god vine is a perennial vine native to China, Japan, and Korea. It has been used in China for health purposes for more than 400 years.

Common Names—thunder god vine, lei gong teng

Latin Name—Tripterygium wilfordii

What It Is Used For

• Thunder god vine has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for conditions involving inflammation or overactivity of the immune system.
• Orally, thunder god vine is taken for excessive menstrual periods or autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus.
• Thunder god vine preparations are also applied to the skin for rheumatoid arthritis.

How It Is Used

Extracts are prepared from the skinned root of thunder god vine.

What the Science Says

• Laboratory findings suggest that thunder god vine may fight inflammation, suppress the immune system, and have anti-cancer effects.
• Although early evidence is promising, there have been few high-quality studies of thunder god vine in people. Results from a small study funded by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) suggest that an oral extract of the herb may improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in some patients. A larger NIAMS-funded study is comparing thunder god vine with a conventional medicine for rheumatoid arthritis.
• A small study on thunder god vine applied to the skin also found benefits for rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to assess thunder god vine’s use for any other health conditions.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Thunder god vine can cause severe side effects and can be poisonous if it is not carefully extracted from the skinned root. Other parts of the plant— including the leaves, flowers, and skin of the root—are highly poisonous and can cause death.
• The extract of thunder god vine used in the NIAMS study was well tolerated. However, thunder god vine can cause diarrhea, upset stomach, hair loss, headache, menstrual changes, and skin rash.
• Thunder god vine has been found to decrease bone mineral density in women who take the herb for 5 years or longer. This side effect may be of particular concern to women who have osteoporosis or are at risk for the condition.
• Thunder god vine decreases sperm count and so may be associated with male infertility.
• 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

Canter PH, Hyang SL, Ernst E. A systematic review of randomized clinical trials of Tripterygium wilfordii for rheumatoid arthritis. Phytomedicine. 2006;13(5):371-377.
Tao X, Younger J, Fan FZ, et al. Benefit of an extract of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Arthritis & Rheumatism. 2002;46(7):1735-1743.
Setty AR, Sigal LH. Herbal medications commonly used in the practice of rheumatology: mechanisms of action, efficacy, and side effects. Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism. 2005;34(6):773-784.
Carter BZ, Mark DH, Schober WD, et al. Triptolide induces caspase-dependent cell death mediated via the mitochondrial pathway in leukemic cells. Blood. 2006;108(2):630-637.
Thunder god vine. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on June 12, 2007.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Complementary and Alternative
Medicine. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Web site. Accessed at http://www.nccam.nih.gov/health/RA on June 13, 2007.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Chinese Thunder God Vine Gives Relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Web site.
Accessed at http://www.niams.nih.gov/ne/highlights/spotlight/2002/thunder.htm on June 13, 2007.

<strong>Connecticut Naturopathic Physicians</strong>

Natural Health & Wellness Center
Milford,Connecticut 06460
(P) (203) 874-4333

Jenn Krebs, ND
Natural Healthcare of New Haven
26 Trumbull Street
New Haven,Connecticut 6511
(P) 203-776-1212
www.drjennkrebs.com

Joshua Levitt, ND
Whole Health
3011 Whitney Ave
Hamden,Connecticut 06518
(P) 203-288-8283
drjlevitt@yahoo.com
www.wholehealthct.com

Amanda M Levitt, ND
Whole Health
3011 Whitney Ave.
Hamden,Connecticut 06518
(P) 203-288-8283
amandameisel@yahoo.com
www.wholehealthct.com

Enrico Liva, ND, RPh
CONNECTICUT CENTER FOR HEALTH
87 Bernie O’Rourke Drive
Middletown,Connecticut 6457
(P) (860) 347-8600
http://www.connecticutcenterforhealth.com

Margot Longenecker, ND
850 North Main Street Extension
Wallingford,Connecticut 06492
(P) 203-284-8661
www.drlongenecker.com

Christine Louden, ND
Connecticut Center for Health
777 Farmington Avenue
West Hartford,Connecticut 06119
(P) 860-232-0000
www.connecticutcenter4health.com

Marie Mammone, ND
Natuopathic Health Center
350 Silas Deane Hwy
Wethersfield,Connecticut 06109
(P) (860) 529-1200

Cassandra Mannhardt, ND, RN
University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine
Health Science Center
Bridgeport,Connecticut 06604
(P) (203) 576-4126
cmannhar@bridgeport.edu
www.bridgeport.edu

Mary Markow, LAc, ND, MS
Avon’s Wellness Center
25 Court Street
New Britain,Connecticut 06051
(P) 860-229-1490
http://www.avonwellnesscenter.net/

Anne Mitchell, ND
116 Center Street
Wallingford,Connecticut 06492
(P) 203-265-3546
annemitchellnd@aol.com
none

Alison L Monette, ND
Avena Wellness Center, LLC
243A Kennedy Drive
Putnam,Connecticut 06260
(P) 860.963.2250
avenawellness@gmail.com
avenawellness.com

Artemis D. Morris, LAc, ND, MS
Revive Wellness Center
867 Whalley Avenue
New Haven,Connecticut 6515
(P) 203-387-1540
revivewellness@aol.com
www.revivewellnesscenter.com

Dr. Artemis Morris
87 Cherry Street
Milford,Connecticut 06460
(P) 203-783-9802

Stacey Munro, ND
Nature’s Helper Medical Clinic, LLC
96 Poquonock Avenue
Windsor,Connecticut 06095
(P) 860-688-2275
info@natureshelpermedical.com
www.NaturesHelperMedical.com

Robert M. Murphy, ND
Northwest Holistic Health
21 Prospect Street Suite A
Torrington,Connecticut 6790
(P) 860-482-4730

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. St. John’s wort—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. St. John’s wort is a plant with yellow flowers whose medicinal uses were first recorded in ancient Greece. The name St. John’s wort apparently refers to John the Baptist, as the plant blooms around the time of the feast of St. John the Baptist in late June.

Common Names—St. John’s wort, hypericum, Klamath weed, goat weed

Latin Name—Hypericum perforatum

What It Is Used For

• St. John’s wort has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve pain.
• St. John’s wort has also been used as a sedative and a treatment for malaria, as well as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites.
• Today, St. John’s wort is used by some for depression, anxiety, and/or sleep disorders.

How It Is Used

The flowering tops of St. John’s wort are used to prepare teas and tablets containing concentrated extracts.

What the Science Says

• There is some scientific evidence that St. John’s wort is useful for treating mild to moderate depression. However, two large studies, one sponsored by NCCAM, showed that the herb was no more effective than placebo in treating major depression of moderate severity.
• NCCAM is studying the use of St. John’s wort in a wider spectrum of mood disorders, including minor depression.

Side Effects and Cautions

• St. John’s wort may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Other side effects can include anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.
• Research shows that St. John’s wort interacts with some drugs. The herb affects the way the body processes or breaks down many drugs; in some cases, it may speed or slow a drug’s breakdown. Drugs that can be affected include:
  • o Antidepressants
  • Birth control pills
  • Cyclosporine, which prevents the body from rejecting transplanted organs
  • Digoxin, which strengthens heart muscle contractions
  • Indinavir and possibly other drugs used to control HIV infection
  • Irinotecan and possibly other drugs used to treat cancer
  • Warfarin and related anticoagulants.
• When combined with certain antidepressants, St. John’s wort may increase side effects such as nausea, anxiety, headache, and confusion.
• St. John’s wort is not a proven therapy for depression. If depression is not adequately treated, it can become severe. Anyone who may have depression should see a health care provider. There are effective proven therapies available.
• 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. St. John’s Wort and the Treatment of Depression. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Web site. Accessed at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort on June 29, 2007.
St. John’s wort. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on June 29, 2007.
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on June 28, 2007.
St. John’s wort. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs.
Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:359-366.
De Smet PA. Herbal remedies. New England Journal of Medicine. 2002;347(25):2046-2056.
Hypericum Depression Trial Study Group. Effect of Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort) in major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2002;287(14):1807-1814.

<strong>Connecticut Naturopathic Physicians</strong>

Lisa Gengo, ND
8 Knight St.
Norwalk,Connecticut 06851
(P) 914-419-7585
ljgnd@optonline.net

Jacqueline E. Germain, ND
87 Bernie O’Rourke Dr
Middletown,Connecticut 6457
(P) (203) 347-8600

Debra A. Gibson, ND
Debra Gibson N.D.
158 Danbury Road
Ridgefield,Connecticut 06877
(P) (203) 431-4443
dgnd2006@sbcglobal.net

Karl M. Goldkamp, LAc, ND, MSOM
Center for Natural Medicine Family Practice LLC
81 Halls Road
Old Lyme ,Connecticut 06371
(P) 860-434-3100
drgoldkamp@sbcglobal.net
http://center4naturalmedicine.com/

Pearlyn Goodman-Herrick, ND
Pearlyn Goodman-Herrick ND PC
1465 Post Rd. E.
Westport,Connecticut 06880
(P) 203-256-9091
goodmanherrick@aol.com
homeopathyamerica.com

156 5th Ave.
New York,New York 10010
(P) 203-256-9091
Carolyn U Graham, ND, RN
Naturopathic Health Center
Suite 307, 415 Howe Ave
Shelton,Connecticut 06484
(P) 203-922-0029
info@ naturohealthcenter.com
naturohealthcenter.com

Natural Pharmacy of Shelton
Suite 308, 415 Howe Ave
Shelton,Connecticut 06484
(P) 203-922-8088

Gary S. Gruber, ND
Gary S. Gruber PC
68 Old Stamford Road
New Canaan,Connecticut 06840
(P) 203-966-6360
drgruber@sciencemeetsnature.com
www.sciencemeetsnature.com

Lynnette M. Guida, LAc, ND
Avalon Healing Center
670 Newfield Street
Middletown,Connecticut 06457
(P) 860-347-8800
docguida@yahoo.com
www.avalonhealingcenter.net

Paul Herscu, ND, DHANP
115 Elm Street
Enfield,Connecticut 06082
(P) 860-763-1225

Nadine Hokayem, ND
Medicine By Nature
1111 High Ridge Road
Stamford,Connecticut 06905
(P) (203) 276-9000
MyHealth@MedicineByNature.com
www.MedicineByNature.com

Sharon Hunter, ND
Connecticut Center for Health
777 Farmington Avenue
West Hartford,Connecticut 06119
(P) 860-232-0000
shunter@center4health.com
www.connecticutcenterforhealth.com

Darin Ingels, ND
New England Family Health Associates
2425 Post Road, Ste. 100
Southport,Connecticut 06890
(P) 203-254-9957
nefha@nefha.com
www.nefha.com

New England Family Health Associates
851 Fremont Avenue, Ste. 104
Los Altos,California 98024
(P) 650-229-1010

Neeru N Kaushik, LAc, ND, MS, MA
Institute For Ayurvedic And Naturopathic Therapies
805 Kings Hwy E
Fairfield,Connecticut 06825
(P) 203-331-9111
drkaushik@ayurvedicinstitutect.com
www.AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

47 Buttonball lane
Weston,Connecticut 06883
(P) 203-227-7550

Mitch Kennedy, ND
Heal with Nature (R)
46 West Avon Rd.
Avon,Connecticut 06001
(P) 860-673-9954
info@healwithnature.com
www.healwithnature.com

Univ. of Connecticut Health Center
Hollfelder Center for Women\’s Health
Farmington,Connecticut 06030
(P) 860-679-8899

Guru Sandesh Singh Khalsa, ND
Dean University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine
60 Lafayette St.
Bridgeport,Connecticut 6604
(P) 203-576-4110
gkhalsa@bridgeport.edu
www.bridgeport.edu

Christine Kontomerkos, ND, MS
Trumbull Naturopathic & Acupuncture
5415 Main Street
Trumbull,Connecticut 06611
(P) (203) 220-8923
www.letnatureheal.com

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about soy—uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Soy, a plant in the pea family, has been common in Asian diets for thousands of years. It is found in modern American diets as a food or food additive. Soybeans, the high-protein seeds of the soy plant, contain isoflavones-compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen. The following information highlights what is known about soy when used by adults for health purposes.

Common Name—soy

Latin Name—Glycine max

What It Is Used For

People use soy products to prevent or treat a variety of health conditions, including high cholesterol levels, menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, osteoporosis, memory problems, high blood pressure, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.

How It Is Used

• Soy is available in dietary supplements, in forms such as tablets and capsules. Soy supplements may contain isoflavones or soy protein or both.
• Soybeans can be cooked and eaten or used to make tofu, soy milk, and other foods. Also, soy is sometimes used as an additive in various processed foods, including baked goods, cheese, and pasta.

What the Science Says

• Research suggests that daily intake of soy protein may slightly lower levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
• Some studies suggest that soy isoflavone supplements may reduce hot flashes in women after menopause. However, the results have been inconsistent.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether soy supplements are effective for any other health uses.
• NCCAM is supporting ongoing studies of soy, including its effects on women’s arteries and bones after menopause.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Soy is considered safe for most people when used as a food or when taken for short periods as a dietary supplement.
• Minor stomach and bowel problems such as nausea, bloating, and constipation are possible.
• Allergic reactions such as breathing problems and rash can occur in rare cases.
• The safety of long-term use of soy isoflavones has not been established. Evidence is mixed on whether using isoflavone supplements, over time, can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (a thickening of the lining of the uterus that can lead to cancer). Studies show no effect of dietary soy on risk for endometrial hyperplasia.
• Soy’s possible role in breast cancer risk is uncertain. Until more is known about soy’s effect on estrogen levels, women who have or who are at increased risk of developing breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive conditions (such as ovarian or uterine cancer) should be particularly careful about using soy and should discuss it with their health care providers.
• 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

Balk E, Chung M, Chew P, et al. Effects of Soy on Health Outcomes. Evidence Report/Technology Assessment no. 126.
Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; 2005. AHRQ publication no. 05-E024-1.
Low Dog T. Menopause: a review of botanical dietary supplements. American Journal of Medicine. 2005;118(suppl 12B):98S-108S.
Sacks FM, Lichtenstein A, Van Horn L, et al. Soy protein, isoflavones, and cardiovascular health: an American Heart Association Science Advisory for professionals from the Nutrition Committee. Circulation. 2006;113(7):1034-1044.
Soy. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on January 2, 2007.
Soy (Glycine max [L.] Merr.). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on January 2, 2007.

<strong>Connecticut Naturopathic Physicians</strong>

Frank L. Aieta, ND
West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine, LLC
301 North Main Street
West Hartford,Connecticut 6117
(P) 860-232-9662
Draieta@aol.com
WWW.DRAIETA.COM

Ather Ali, ND, MPH
Integrative Medicine Center at Griffin Hospital
252 Seymour Avenue
Derby,Connecticut 06418
(P) 203 732 1370
shelli.larovera@yalegriffinprc.org
www.imc-griffin.org

Cynthia L Anderson, ND, RN, MS
Naturo Wise Healthcare LLC at Sabita Holistic Center
3519 post Rd
Southport,Connecticut 06890
(P) 203.254.2633
sabitaholisticcenter.com
sabitaholisticcenter.com

Ann Aresco, ND
Kensington Naturopathic Medical Center
355 New Britain Rd.
Kensington,Connecticut 06037
(P) 860-829-0707
draresco@comcast.net
www.kensingtonnaturopathic.com

Michael Armentano, ND
Natural Medicine & Wellness Center
296 Sound Beach Ave
Greenwich,Connecticut 06870
(P) 203-637-8464
drarmentano@att.net
http://www.drarmentano.com/

Alice P. Bell, ND, MS
Naturopathic Health Center, LLC
415 Howe Ave. Suite 307
Shelton,Connecticut 06484
(P) 203-922-0029
info@naturohealthcenter.com
www.naturohealthcenter.com

Natural Pharmacy of Shelton, LLC
415 Howe Ave. Suite 308
Shelton,CT 06484
(P) 203-922-8088

Joshua K Berry, ND
HNMC
31 Hawleyville Rd
Hawleyville,Connecticut 06440
(P) (203) 426-2306
janice@hawleyvillenaturopathic.com
Hawleyvillenaturopathic.com

Debra Bossio, ND
Hawleyville Naturopathic Medical Center
31 Hawleyville Road
Hawleyville,Connecticut 06440
(P) 203-426-2306
drdebbossio@yahoo.com
www.hawleyvillenaturopathic.com

David M Brady, ND
The Center for the Healing Arts
370 Boston Post Road
Orange,Connecticut 06477
(P) 203-799-7733
www.drdavidbrady.com

Peter J. D’Adamo, ND
The D’Adamo Clinic
213 Danbury Road
Wilton,Connecticut 6897
(P) 203-834-7500
http://www.dadamo.com/wordpress/

Marcos de Escobar, NMD
Corebella Health LLC
171 Grandview Ave Suite 202
Waterbury,Connecticut 06708
(P) 203-757-9336

Cathryn M. Flanagan, ND
Natural Family health Care
12 Spencer Plain Road
Old Saybrook,Connecticut 6475
(P) 860-399-1212
drcflanagan@cshore.com
www.drcflanagan@cshore.com

Danielle Forester, ND
35 Boston St.
Guilford,Connecticut 6437
(P) 203-535-6821
foresternd@yahoo.com
www.dr-forester.com

Marina L. Franzoni, ND, MS
Connecticut Natural Medical Center
135 Main Street
Wethersfield,Connecticut 06109
(P) 860-817-3322
DrFranzoni@aol.com
www.CTNATURALMED.com

Connecticut Natural Medical Center
135 Main Street
Wethersfield,Connecticut 06109
(P) 860-817-3322

Jeanne Fuqua, ND
Jeanne Fuqua
15-17 June Street
Woodbridge,Connecticut 06525
(P) 203-500-4100
jfuquaND@yahoo.com

850 N. Main Street Ext
Wallingford,Connecticut 06492
(P) 203-500-4100

Laura Futterman, ND
Stamford Center for Natural Health
111 High Ridge Road
Stamford,Connecticut 06905
(P) 203-325-3535
info@stamfordnaturalhealth.com
www.stamfordnaturalhealth.com

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. saw palmetto—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States. Its fruit was used medicinally by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Common Names—saw palmetto, American dwarf palm tree, cabbage palm

Latin Names—Serenoa repens, Sabal serrulata

What It Is Used For

• Saw palmetto is used mainly for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland (also called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH).
• Saw palmetto is also used for other conditions, including chronic pelvic pain, bladder disorders, decreased sex drive, hair loss, and hormone imbalances.

How It Is Used

The ripe fruit of saw palmetto is used in several forms, including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. It is available as a liquid extract, tablets, capsules, and as an infusion or a tea.

What the Science Says

• Several small studies suggest that saw palmetto may be effective for treating BPH symptoms.
• In 2006, a large study of 225 men with moderate-to-severe BPH found no improvement with 320 mg saw palmetto daily for 1 year versus placebo. NCCAM cofunded the study with the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of saw palmetto for reducing the size of an enlarged prostate or for any other conditions.
• Saw palmetto does not appear to affect readings of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. PSA is protein produced by cells in the prostate. The PSA test is used to screen for prostate cancer and to monitor patients who have had prostate cancer.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Saw palmetto may cause mild side effects, including stomach discomfort.
• Some men using saw palmetto have reported side effects such as tender breasts and a decline in sexual desire.
• 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

Saw palmetto. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on July 5, 2007.
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens [Bartran] Small). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on July 3, 2007.
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). In: Coates P, Blackman M, Cragg G, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements.
New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2005;635-644.
De Smet PA. Herbal remedies. New England Journal of Medicine. 2002;347(25):2046-2056.
National Cancer Institute. The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Questions and Answers. National Cancer Institute Web site. Accessed at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Detection/PSA on July 10, 2007.
Saw palmetto berry. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E
Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:335-340.
Bent S, Kane C, Shinohara K, et al. Saw palmetto for benign prostatic hyperplasia. New England Journal of Medicine. 2006;354(6):557-566.

<strong>Colorado Naturopathic Physicians</strong>

Eliza Klearman, ND, MSOM
407 Broadway Street
Eagle,Colorado 81631-1265
(P) 970-328-5678
www.drklearman.com

Dee Koloski, LAc, ND
Sage Holistic Health
1136 N. Lincoln Ave.
Loveland,Colorado 80537
(P) 970-667-7071
www.sageholistichealth.com

Christopher Lepisto, ND
The Integrative Medicine Center of Western Colorado
2470 F Road #8
Grand Junction,Colorado 81505
(P) 970-250-4104
drchristopher@mac.com
www.imcwc.com

Janine Malcolm, LAc, ND
Natural Resources Integrated Healthcare, LLC
2760 29th St. Suite 2E
Boulder,Colorado 80301
(P) 303-541-9600
naturedocj@hotmail.com
www.naturalresourceshealthcare.com

Tucker S Meager, ND
Two Rivers Natural Health
710 Cooper Ave
Glenwood Springs,Colorado 81601
(P) 970 948-9128
FrontDesk@TwoRiversNaturalHealth.com
www.TwoRiversNaturalHealth.com

Kelly J. Parcell, ND
NatureMed, LLC
5330 Manhattan Circle
Boulder,Colorado 80303
(P) 3038847557
kelly@naturemedclinic.com
www.naturemedclinic.com

Stephen Parcell, ND
Nature Med, LLC
5330 Manhattan Circle
Boulder,Colorado 80303
(P) 303-884-7557
drsteve@naturemedclinic.com
www.naturemedclinic.com

Kathryn Plummer, ND
Sage Holistic Health
1136 N. Lincoln Ave.
Loveland,Colorado 80537
(P) 970-667-7071
www.sageholistichealth.com

Justin Pollack, ND
Mountain River Naturopathic Clinic
60 Main Street
Frisco,Colorado 80443
(P) 970-668-1300
drjkayak@yahoo.com
www.mountainriverclinic.com

Shelese Pratt, ND
Flatirons Naturopathic Clinic
5412 Idylwild Trail
Boulder,Colorado 80301
(P) 303-530-0978
drpratt@flatironsnc.com
www.flatironsnc.com

Nancy A. Rao, LAc, ND
Boulder Naturopathic Clinic
1295 Yellow Pine Ave
Boulder,Colorado 80304
(P) 303-545-2021
nancyraond@comcast.net

JoHannah Reilly, LAc, ND
Natural Resources Integrated Healthcare, LLC
2760 29th Street Suite 2E
Boulder,Colorado 80301
(P) 303-541-9600
www.naturalresourceshealthcare.com

Steve Rissman, ND
Steven M Rissman ND
1000 E. 160th Ave
Broomfield,Colorado 80020
(P) 720-331-3760

James Ellis Rouse, ND
Optimum Wellness
PO Box 587
Indian Hills,Colorado 80454
(P) 303-697-6662
optimumwellness1@aol.com
www.optimumwellness.com

Debra Rouse, ND
Optimum Wellness
24230 Matterhorn Drive PO Box 587
Indian Hills,Colorado 80454
(P) 303-697-6662
bealiveandwell@aol.com
www.optimumwellness.com

Jacob Schor, ND
Denver Naturopathic Clinic
1181 S Parker Rd
Denver,Colorado 80231
(P) 303-337-4884
jacob@denvernaturopathic.com
www.denvernaturopathic.com

Abigail Seaver, NMD
Dr. Abigail Seaver ND LLC
123 S. Laura St.
Ridgway,Colorado 81432
(P) 970-626-3188
abigailseaver@yahoo.com
www.drabigailseaver.com

Mary Shackelton, ND, MPH
Women’s Center for Natural Medicine
2975 Valmont Rd. Suite 100
Boulder,Colorado 80301
(P) 303-449-3777
mary@allnaturaldoc.com
www.allnaturaldoc.com

Jody K. Shevins, DHANP
Jody K Shevins ND Inc.
5377 Manhattan Circle
Boulder,Colorado 80303
(P) (303) 494-3713
shevins@qwestoffice.net
www.jodykshevins.com/

Louis W. Spaner, ND
East-West Health Centers
8200 E. Belleview
Greenwood Village,Colorado 80111
(P) 303-694-5757
www.denvernaturedoc.com

Julie Stears, ND
Namaste Health Center
1099 Main Ave. Suite 200
Durango,Colorado 81301
(P) 970-247-2043
www.namastehealtcenter.com

Michael Sutton, ND
Sutton Naturopathic Health Center
2900 S College Ave. #3A
Fort Collins,Colorado 80525
(P) 970-419-0700

Jannine H Walldan, ND
201 S. Bridge St.
Breckenridge,Colorado 80424
Deborah Wiancek, ND

Riverwalk Natural Health Clinic & Natural Pharmacy LLC
280 Main St. Ste C-105
Edwards,Colorado 81632
(P) 970-926-7606
wiancek@healthref.com

Nasha Winters, LAc, ND
Namaste Health Center
1099 Main Avenue
Durango,Colorado 81301
(P) 970-247-2043
www.namastehealthcenter.com

Kathleen Young, ND
2121 Academy Circle S, Suite 100
Colorado Springs,Colorado 80909
(P) 719-238-6816
drkyoung@comcast.net

Clinix Healing Center
7030 S. Yosemite, Suite 210
Centennial,Colorado 80112
(P) 303-721-9984
www.clinixusa.com

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. red clover—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Like peas and beans, red clover belongs to the family of plants called legumes. Red clover contains phytoestrogens—compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen.

Common Names—red clover, cow clover, meadow clover, wild clover

Latin Name—Trifolium pratense

What It Is Used For

• Historically, red clover has been used for cancer and respiratory problems, such as whooping cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
• Current uses of red clover are for menopausal symptoms, breast pain associated with menstrual cycles, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and symptoms of prostate enlargement.

How It Is Used

The flowering tops of the red clover plant are used to prepare extracts available in tablets and capsules, as well as in teas and liquid forms.

What the Science Says

• Although several small studies of red clover for menopausal symptoms had mixed results, a large study found that red clover had no beneficial effects on menopausal symptoms.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether red clover is effective for any other health conditions.
• NCCAM is studying red clover to learn more about its active components and how they might work in the body, including a clinical trial investigating the safety and effectiveness of red clover for menopausal symptoms.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Red clover seems to be safe for most adults when used for short periods of time. No serious adverse effects have been reported.
• Because red clover contains estrogen-like compounds, there is a possibility that its long-term use would increase the risk of women developing cancer of the lining of the uterus. However, studies to date have been too brief (less than 6 months) to evaluate whether red clover has estrogen-like effects on the uterus.
• It is unclear whether red clover is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers.
• 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

Red clover. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on July 5, 2007.
Red clover (Trifolium pratense). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on July 3, 2007.
Fugh-Berman A, Kronenberg F. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) for menopausal women: current state of knowledge.
Menopause. 2001;8(5):333-337.
Tice JA, Ettinger B, Ensrud K, et al. Phytoestrogen supplements for the treatment of hot flashes: the Isoflavone Clover
Extract (ICE) study. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2003;290(2):207-214.
Red clover (Trifolium pratense). In: Coates P, Blackman M, Cragg G, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2005:587-602.

<strong>Colorado Naturopathic Physicians</strong>

Ruth Adele, ND
Naturopathic Health Care
1625 W Uintah St. Suite I
Colorado Springs,Colorado 80904
(P) 719-636-0098
RuthAdele@aol.com

Lisa Amerine, ND
Pure Homeopathy
600 W. Emma St.
Lafayette,Colorado 80026
(P) 303-665-2423
info@purehomeopathy.com
www.purehomeopathy.com

Hilary Back, LAc, MSOM
Dr. Hilary Back, LLC
20 N. 4th Street
Carbondale,Colorado 81623
(P) 970-963-6500
clientresources@drhilaryback.com
www.drhilaryback.com

Buffy Shawn Binder, ND
209 E. Swallow Road
Fort Collins,Colorado 80525
(P) 970-223-7425
www.kindermedicine.com

Rena Ann Bloom, ND
Denver Naturopathic Clinic
1181 S Parker Rd
Denver,Colorado 80231
(P) 303-337-4884
rena@denvernaturopathic.com
www.denvernaturopathic.com

Barbara Blunt, LAc, ND
Longmont Healing Arts Clinic
736 Kimbark Street
Longmont,Colorado 80501
(P) 720-652-9972
drbarbarablunt@hotmail.com
longmonthealingarts.com

Judith Boice, LAc, ND
Seven Winds Institute
1008 West Oak Grove Rd.
Montrose,Colorado 81401
(P) 970-252-0985
www.drjudithboice.com

Courtney Coale Carag, LAc, ND, MSOM
Natural Dynamics Health Clinic
5275 Marshall Street
Arvada,Colorado 80002
(P) 303.424.7171
drcourtney.nd@gmail.com

Mark Carney, LAc, ND, MSOM
Your Healing Place, P.C.
7120 E. Hampden Avenue, Unit B
Denver,Colorado 80224
(P) 303-636-0000
www.yourhealingplace.com

Faith A Christensen, ND, RN
Springs Natural Medicine
1010 W Colorado Ave Ste D
Colorado Springs,Colorado 80904
(P) 719-685-2500
drfaithnd@hotmail.com
www.springsnaturalmedicine.com

Sarah Bedell Cook, ND
Innate Health, LLC
Westminster,Colorado 80021
drsarah@innatehealthllc.com
www.innatehealthllc.com

Mark Cooper, LAc, ND
Alpine Naturopathic Clinic
1420 S.21st St.
Colorado Springs,Colorado 80904
(P) 719-471-8411

Carrie Louise Daenell, ND
Natural Health & Science Inc.
165 Cook St. #203
Denver,Colorado 80206
(P) 303-399-8050
DoctorCLD@aol.com
www.drdaenell.com

Jenny Demeaux, RNC, ND
Preventive Health Care For Women PC
3441 Tennyson St
Denver,Colorado 80212
(P) 303-433-5006
theHighlandsND@msn.com
HighlandsHealthandHealing.com

Louise N. Edwards, LAc, ND
Durango,Colorado 81301
(P) 970-382-9944
Paul Gannon, ND
40 Island Ave.
Miami,Florida 33139
(P) (305) 491- 9209
DrPaulGannon.com

Aspen Naturopathic
430 W. Main St.
Aspen,Colorado 81611
(P) (970) 920-7644

Brenna Hatami
1441 York Street Ste 303
Denver,Colorado 80206
(P) 303-320-1174
www.doctorbrenna.com

Roanne Rouse Y. Houck, ND
Main Street Clinic
320 N Main St.
Gunnison,Colorado 81230
(P) 970-641-5363

Scott Isaacs, ND, DC
Chiropractic Wellness Center
5275 Marshall St.
Arvada,Colorado 80002
(P) 303-463-0722
drscott@drscottisaacs.com
www.drscottisaacs.com

Mark Kelley, LAc, ND
209 East Swallow Road
Fort Collins,Colorado 80525
(P) (970) 223-7425
www.kindermedicine.com