Selected Herbals Flashcards
What is a herbal product?
Any form of a plant or plant product (leaves, stems, flowers, roots, seeds)
What are 2 things to keep in mind when discussing herbal products?
- The herb is the plant; the phytochemical is the bioactive(s)
- Production of metabolites may be more biologically relevant than identified active constituent
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for GINKGO BILOBA?
Active constituent: too many to know
Effects:
- Memory (dementia)
- Optimize blood flow (tinnitus + intermittent claudication; pain in lower legs due to atherosclerosis)
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for ST. JOHN’S WORT? What are the extracts standardized for?
Active constituent:
- Hypericin (extracts standardized for this content)
- Hyperforin
Effects: Anti-depression
- Inhibits reuptake of serotonin, dopamin and norephinephrine
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for GINSENG? Bonus, discuss the company that sells it!
Active constituent: Ginsenoside
Effects:
- Increase stamina, concentration, and well-being
- Boost immunity (Cold Fx sells Ginseng as NHP)
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for ECHINACEA?
Active constituent: too many to know
Effects: stimulation of immune system
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for SAW PALMETTO?
Active constituent: unknown
Effects: men’s (prostate) health
What is the active constituent(s) and health effects for KAVA? Bonus, discuss safety!
Active constituent: kavalactones
- Products standardized for kavalactone content
- Banned in Canada due to safety concerns
Effects:
- Anti-anxiety
- Anti-convulsant
