herbal/alternative therapies Flashcards
(19 cards)
echinacea
Most often used to enhance immune function in individuals with colds or other respiratory tract infections
parthenolide aka feverfew
migraine
anti-inflammatory
Garlic (Allium Sativum)
may lower cholesterol
anti-platelet
ginko biloba
- Has been shown to increase blood flow and reduce blood viscosity
- increases levels of ach and NE
- Frequently used to treat “cerebral insufficiency” and dementia of the Alzheimer type
ginseng
Most often used to help improve physical and mental performance
Kava
Anxiety
Most common use
Studies show significant improvement even compared to some BZDs
Slow onset – 4-8 weeks (should not be used for acute symptoms)
milk thistle
In animal models, limits hepatic injury associated with a variety of toxins (ethanol, APAP, radiation)
St. Johns Wort
Anti-depressant action
Inhibition of serotonin, NE and dopamine reuptake
Increased expression of serotonin receptors
Opioid and GABA receptor binding
Clinical trials show efficacy in mild to moderate depression, but not severe
saw palmetto
BPH
5α reductase inhibition (similar to finasteride)
yohimbe
Central α2-adrenergic antagonist effects
Vasodilatory effect
Used for ED
black cohosh
treatment for symptoms associated with menopause
cat’s claw
commonly used for improving symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
licorice
beneficial effects against hepatitis C in clinical trials
Dietary Supplement and Health Education Act - 1994
Available without a prescription
Legally considered dietary supplements
No FDA oversight like OTC medications/drugs
No warning labels required
Adverse effects documented for variety of botanical medications
herbal supplement manufacturers do not have to report adverse events
Most come from consumers, health practitioners, and poison control centers
Chemical analysis rarely performed
Uncertainty about whether the primary herb or an adulterant was the cause
high risk patients
Elderly and children Pregnant or breastfeeding Chronically ill Kidney disease Taking prescription or OTC drugs
complementary medicine
treatment and medicine that you use in addition to standard care Acupuncture Hypnosis Yoga Massage therapy Herbal remedies Alternative medicine
homeopathic medicine
form of alternative medicine that uses very small amounts of natural substances, which in higher amounts would cause a disease
“like cures like“
ayurveda
universal interconnectedness (among people, their health, and the universe), the body’s constitution (prakriti), and life forces (dosha) physicians prescribe individualized treatments, including compounds of herbs or proprietary ingredients, and diet, exercise, and lifestyle recommendations
