Herbal &Dietary Supplements Flashcards
Black Cohosh
Most often used to relieve symptoms of menopause (flushes, vaginal dryness, irritability)
May also relieve premenstrual syndrome (PMS) & dysmenorrhea)
Capsaicin
Used to treat pain associated with neuralgia, neuropathy, and osteoarthritis
Self defense as the active ingredient in “pepper spray”
Chamomile
Used mainly for antispasmodic effects in the GI tract; may relieve abdominal cramping
Decreases serum LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL cholesterol
Creatine
Athletes taking creatine supplements to gain extra, to train longer and harder, and to improve performance
Echinacea
Most often used for the common cold but also advertised for many other uses like immune system stimulants & anti infective
Feverfew
Migraines, menstrual irregularities, arthritis
Garli
Used to lower serum cholesterol and for other uses
Ginger
Used mainly to treat nausea, including motion sickness and postoperative nausea
Ginkgo
Used mainly to improve memory and cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease; may be useful in treating peripheral arterial disease
Ginseng
Used to increase stamina, strength, endurance, and mental acuity
Glucosamine
Usually used with chondroitin , has beneficial effects on cartilage adverse effects mild, may include GI upset, drowsiness
Melatonin
Used mainly for treatment of insomnia and prevention and treatment of jet lag
St. John’s wort
Used for treatment of depression advertised as an herbal Prozac
Saw palmetto
Used to prevent & treat urinary symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Valerian
Used mainly to promote sleep & allay anxiety & nervousness; also has muscle relaxant effects
