Newsletter

AMERICAN HERB ASSOCIATION
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

The following are excerpts from several issues of our 20-page newsletter.
To subscribe, see MEMBERSHIP and become an AHA member:

—Kathi Keville, Director

In this section, you'll find:

HERBAL CLIPPINGS:  New scientific herbal and aromatherapy studies

HERB NEWS:  What the media & herbalists say about herbs

ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS:  Plants interaction with ecology 

LEGAL HERBS:  Reports on legal issues about herbs

HERB REPORTS:  An in-depth look at up and coming herbs Ashwaganda, Oregano, Perilla, Flax Seed Oil

NEWSLETTER THEMES:  Through 1998

In the AHA Newsletter, you'll find these additional sections:

HERBAL CLIPPINGS: New scientific herbal & aromatherapy studies

PATCHOULI

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a remedy that has long been used in India and China to treat digestive problems such as nausea. Japanese researchers tested eight traditional Chinese herbs to see how well they reduced nausea and vomiting. Compounds in five of these herbs helped to relieve nausea, but patchouli alcohol in patchouli’s essential oil was most active. In laboratory models, patchouli worked 58% better than controls. Patchouli is thought to lessen digestive tract muscle spasms, possibly by inhibiting the body chemical that stimulates them.

Yang, KK. et al. 1999. Antiemetic principles of Po.c. Phytomedicine 6(2):89-93.
In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

SANDALWOOD VS HERPES

The essential oil of sandalwood (Santalum album) inhibited herpes simplex virus, especially HSV-1, from replicating but did not directly kill them in a laboratory test. The researchers assume that sandalwood helps the cells protect themselves by modulating the liver’s gluthatione S-tranferase and levels of acid-soluble sulphydryl. The oil produced no toxic effects. Sandalwood is 90 percent santolol, with some hydrocarbons and aldehydes.

Benecia, F., and M.C. Courreges,. 1999. Antiviral activity of sandalwood oil against Herpes simplex viruses. Phytomedicine 6:119-23.
In AHA Volume 16: Issue 1, 2000

THYME FOR TEA

In the US, there are over 500,000 new cases of peptic ulcers and 4 million reoccurrences every year.  Helicobacter pylori are now recognized as a cause of peptic ulcer, chronic stomach inflammation, and stomach cancer. It also plays a role in skin disorders such as rosacea and urticaria. Dental plaque can harbor this bacterium and cause re-infection in the digestive tract, but herbal mouth rinse can help. Of several herbs tested, the strongest to destroy H. pylori were thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum). In another study, researchers at the University of Chicago screened other plant extracts and found that 17 herbs out of 30 also inhibited growth of 15 strains of H. pylori, especially goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and blood root (Sanguinaria canadensis) due to the alkaloids berberine and sanguinarine. Two other effective herbs were garlic (Allium sativum) and turmeric (Curcuma longa).

In AHA Volume 16: Issue 1, 2000.

REFERENCE: Tabak M. et al. 1996. In vitro inhibition of Hp by extracts of thyme. Journal of Applied Bacteriology  80 (6):667-72. 1999. Also: Desai HG, et al. 1991. Dental plaque; a permanent reservoir of Hp? Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology 26(11):1205-8; & Mahady, GB, et al. 1999. Sceening of Medicinal Plants for in vitro activity against H.p. American Society of Pharmacognosy/Phytochemical Society of Europe Joint Meeting, Amsterdam.

HERBS vs ANESTHESIA

At the 1999 conference of the American Society of Anesthesiologists in Dallas, results of a survey of 979 participants reported that 17% of presurgical patients take one or more herbal products. Most popular are gingko (Gingko biloba), garlic (Alliuim sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinalis), and ginseng (Panax sp.), all of which may prevent blood clots from forming and lead to excess blood loss during surgery. Both St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) and kava (Piper methysticum) can potentially prolong the sedative effect of anesthesia. Anesthesiologist Charles McLeskey suggests that patients stop taking herbs at least two weeks before they have elective surgery and also tell their surgeons about any herbs they use to avoid interactions.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

REFERENCE: Associated Press Release, October 16, 1999.

YARROW REPELS MOSQUITOES

The essential oils of birch (Betula lenta), citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), and especially yarrow extract (Achillea millefolium) cause mosquitoes to stop eating and could potentially be developed into natural insecticides. A yarrow extract made from the whole plant was very effective, but yarrow's isolated constituents were not. The essential oils of four species of lemon grass (Cymbogon citratus, etc.) were 85% effective, and they stayed most active duriong the first 4 hours.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999.

REFERENCE: Phytomedicine 5(4):307-310, 311-323,& 324-329, 1999.

PLANT SEDATIVES

Researchers studied the sedative effects of eight plant extracts: valerian (Valeriana officinalis), lavender (Lavandula vera), passion flower (Passiflora incarnata), kava (Piper methysticum), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) in two cross-over studies with 12 women each. St. John’s wort, California poppy, lemon balm, lavender, kava, and valerian—in this order—relaxed the brain by decreasing theta waves and increased beta waves, in a manner very similar to diazepam. Brain wave activity caused by ginkgo, and passionflower was comparable to the placebo. Valerian and lavender caused the most relaxation. The other extracts were slightly less relaxing. The exceptions were lemon balm and St. John’s wort, which proved no better than the placebo. None of the herbs were as effective as the sedative drug diazepam.  

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999.

REFERENCE: Schultz, H. et al. 1998. Quantitative EEG as a screening instrument to identify sedative effects of single doses of plant extracts in comparison with diazepam. Phytomedicine vol. 5.

HALTING HAIR LOSS WITH AROMATHERAPY

It appears that aromatherapy can help a hair loss problem known as Alopecia areata, a disease developed by about 1% of people in the US. It causes bald spots about an inch across and has no medical cure. Medical researchers think the condition may stem from an autoimmune problem and be associated with allergies. In a Scottish trial, one group massaged their scalps every day with oil that contained the essential oils of thyme (thymus vulgaris), lavender (Lavandula vera), cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) in a base of grape seed oil and jojoba. After seven months, 44% had more hair growth compared to only 15% in a control group who did their massage with the base oil without any essential oils. The essential oils caused no significant side effects so proved far safer than the steroid injections usually prescribed. The study noted that many essential oils kill fungi and bacteria and treat psoriasis, dementia, and even papiloma skin cancers in animals.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999.

REFERENCE: Hay, IC. et. al. 1998.  Randomized trial of aromatherapy; successful treatment for alopecia areata. Archives of Dermatology 134:1349-1352 

PROGESTOGENIC HERBS ELUSIVE

Over 150 common herbs were tested to see how well they bind to human breast cell receptors to compete with the female hormones. Of the common plants studied, the most estrogenic were soy bean (Soya glacine), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), red clover (Trifolium pratense), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), turmeric (Curcuma longa), and hops (Humulus lupulus). Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), yucca (Yucca species), and yellow dock (Rumex crispus) also showed significant hormonal activity. Since the ability to bind receptors does not mean that herbs act hormonally in the body, they were further tested by measuring hormones in women's saliva. (Saliva is a highly filtered version of serum so it gives a good idea of what hormones are in the blood.) Estrogenic herbs, especially soymilk, were active. Dong quai (Angelica sinenis) produced very low estradiol and may suppress this type of estrogen. Some herbs reputed to be hormonal, such as flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and black cohosh (Actaea racemosa aka. Cimicifuga racemosa), didn’t change saliva hormones at all. However, they may work in other ways, perhaps as estrogen precursors. (Flaxseed’s estrogenic compounds are created by flora in the bowel.) Also, false results can occur when substances such as tannins are present. The six most potent common herbs to bind progesterone receptors were oregano (Origanum vulgare), verbena (Verbena species), turmeric, thyme, red clover, and damania (Turnera difussa). Herbs with anti-progesterone activity were red clover, licorice, goldenseal, pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), and mandrake (Podophyllum peltatum). Most progesterone-binding herbs were not active or were anti-progestogenic in the body (such as pennyroyal). Wild yam (Dioscoria villosa) increased progesterone receptor binding in 20-30% of women, but appeared to suppress progesterone. Researchers concluded that diosgenin, the yam compound used to synthesize progesterone, “did not convert to progesterone in the body.” 

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999.

REFERENCE: Zava, DT, et al. 1998. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine 217(3):36.

ST. JOHN'S WORT FOR SERIOUS DEPRESSION

A review of 15 studies that involved 1757 outpatients in a 1996 British Medical Journal showed St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) as effective as low doses of the drug imipramine to relieve mild to moderate depression, but with few side effects [See AHA 13:2]. A new, 209-person study suggests that larger amounts of St. John's wort, twice the usual dosage, are able to relieve severe depression as effectively as antidepressant medications. With St. John's wort, the average Hamilton Depression score fell about 43%.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999.

REFERENCE: Sherman, C. 1998. St. John's wort used in severe depression. Family Practitioner News, p.17.

VALERIAN VARIATIONS

The quantity of medicinal compounds in valerian (Valeriana officinalis) plants varies from year to year and month to month. The most essential oil, ranging from 1.2% to 2.1%, occurs in September. Valerenic acid and valepotriates, important medicinal components in valerian, reach their maximum in February and March at 0.7-0.9% and 1.1-1.4.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999.

REFERENCE: Bos, RH, et al. 1998. Cytotoxic potential of valerian constituents and valerian tinctures. Phytomedicine 5(3)"219-25.

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HERB NEWS: What the media & herbalists say about herbs

GLOBE’S EXPOSE ON ST. JOHN’S WORT

The Boston Globe ran a January 2000 story on the considerable variation in some St. John's wort supplements. An analysis of products by PhytoChem found that they contained between 0.25-0.28% of the compound hypericin. Only Nature’s Resource had 0.3% hypericin as labeled. Paracelsian laboratory measured St. John wort’s ability to work by blocking reabsorption of serotonin and dopamine (neurotransmitters involved in depression), which makes them more accessible. Only Quanterra and NatureMade did so. The Herb Research Foundation released a December 1999 statement criticizing the study for assuming hypericin is St. John’s wort’s only active ingredient. PhytoChem is concerned over drawing conclusions from such limited testing, and Pharmavite said the data was not reliable enough as an indicator.

In AHA Volume 16: Issue 1, 2000.

ALTERNATIVES AT HMO

Landmark Healthcare of Sacramento, California found that 67% of HMOs located in 13 states now offer alternative health care, although only about 50% report savings from the venture. Blue Cross has seen a 35% annual increase in membership. Two-thirds of HMOs say demand will continue. Most contract with outside companies to provide acupuncture, herbs, chiropractic, and massage. Blue Shield uses Consenus Health, a network provider of complementary treatments while Cigna Healthcare covers only chiropractic and acupuncture. Aetna US Healthcare has offered alternative care at discounts since 1997. [See AHA  11:2, 12:4, 13:3, 14:2.] Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, composed of 14 physician clinics that serve Boston HMOs, leases clinic space to acupuncturists, massage therapists, and chiropractors and offer a few standardized extracts: echinacea (Echinacea sp.), ginseng (ginseng sp.), ginger (Zingiber officinale), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), and St. Johns wort (Hypericum perforatum).

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

THE NEW FUNCTIONAL FOODS

Everyday drinks and snacks are being fortified with vitamins and herbs. These “functional foods” were first designed in Japan for specified health uses so consumers could enjoy healthier food without changing their eating habits. Healthy Start juices and Balance Bar’s “Total Balance” contain vitamins and herbs like ginkgo (Ginkgo  biloba) and echinacea (Echinacea sp.). However, David Schardt, nutritionist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest says, “There’s a temptation to take junk food and add nutrients to it.” Snapple’s beverage line includes Moon Tea with gingko (Ginkgo biloba) and kava (Piper methysticum) to aid “enlightenment.” Mad River Trader admits that their priority is to provide beverages, and Norwalk says the "supplement" levels in SoBe drinks do not provide the same dose as a pill (a 20 ounce bottle contains 45mg herbs), but are refreshing. (A new line of green teas, their first product sold in natural foods stores, will have a higher dose of herbs.) A serving of Peace Cereal "Almond Crisp" contains a mere 2 mg. of ginkgo extract. On the other hand, a pharmacology professor formulated Hansen’s fortified canned fruit drinks designed to reduce stress and increase energy. Their “Kava-Root of Peace” contains 500mg kava and “Forza” is St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), orange (Citrus sinensis), ginseng  (Panax sp.), and arctic rose root (Rhodiola rosea). Drinks That Work are one of the few juices marketed as supplements, allowing them to carry structure/function claims [see Legal, this issue]. Odwalla determines the dosages of herbs according to the Commission E Monographs [see AHA 14:4] and prints them on their labels. They say that not labeling the dose indicates a product contains only traces of herbs or vitamins. Elix from Daily Wellness Company comes in small bottles that mix a concentrated measure of a single herb, such as chamomile (Matricaria recutita) or echinacea, with vitamins. Now, ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s joins the functional food industry with a line of ready-to-drink herbal smoothies, like "Tropic of Mango." The ginseng in their "Raspberry Renewal" is said to stimulate mind, body, and sex, overcome illness and depression, and lower blood pressure. Hain's introduced "Tomato with St. John's wort," although a serving contains only 98 mg. of stems,  and American Gourmet makes "Kava Kava Corn Chips" and "Cat's Claw Crunch" with Uncaria sp.). Campbell's and Hain's gave up on supplemented soups and Kellogg’s withdrew fortified cereals and pastas from test markets due to slow supermarket sales. [See News, AHA 14:4.]

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

WASABI FIELDS

Fifty-two-acres of sand dunes in Florence, Oregon are now devoted to cultivating wasabi (Eutrema wasabi), the hot, tangy root that serves as a side dish for Japanese dishes. It was previously cultivated—for 1000 centuries—only in high mountain streams of Japan, which was reported to be the only location to grow quality roots. Grower Roy Carver was looking for a unique, high-demand, difficult-to-grow crop and came up with wasabi in 1990. Japanese growers were polite, but did not want to share cultivation techniques, so he hired several people to obtain information and books (now locked in his safe). Carter decided that the cool weather and abundant water of the Oregon coast was the place to duplicate wasabi’s Japanese home. He installed water misters that sprinkle down on riverbeds made from black plastic. One of the world’s five largest farms, and on its way to becoming the top producer, it has the advantage of producing a harvest once a week instead of the traditional once a year. Wasabi’s pungency is produced by the same glycoside, sinigrin, as found in horseradish (Armoracia lapathifolia).

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

GROWING CHINESE FRUITS

Ventura County farm advisor Ben Faber is studying the possibility of cultivating two medicinal Chinese herbal tonic fruits, lychee (Litchi chinensis) and longan (Euphorbia longan). Grant money came from the University of California’s 20-year-old Small Farm Program, which was established to assist small-scale farmers by providing state-of-the-art technical information, networking, and help with decision-making. He also received a $120,000 grant from the California Department of Agriculture Pest Exclusion Program, which feels that growing these fruits might lessen the current smuggling traffic from quarantined countries for use in Oriental cooking. Price, production, and yield will be tracked. Another potential new crop is edamame (Glycine max), vegetable soybeans that are boiled in their green pods, then shelled and eaten like peanuts or added to Asian dishes. They provide high-protein food rich in isoflavones, which can enhance estrogen hormones and may inhibit cancer growth.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

MexicAN HEALERS

Natural healers in Sonora asked authorities to draft a law that would give indigenous people ownership of the medicinal plants found in their region. Members of five of the existing eight ethnic groups in the state protested the disappearance of plants harvested by pharmaceutical companies for use in pharmaceutical drugs. The folk healers proposed creating botanical gardens to which only they have access. They also want to list endangered species in the area to see if those plants are found anywhere else. While presenting their petition, the healers performed cures, faith healing, and spiritual cleansing on attendees.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 2000.

HERBS MAKE NY TIMES LIST

According to a New York Times article, medicinal herbs “thought to be effective” were: Black cohosh, feverfew, milk thistle, capsicum, echinacea, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, kava, psyllium, saw palmetto, St. John’s wort, and valerian. Herbs on the “to avoid list” included blue cohosh, borage, broom, chaparral, comfrey, ephedra, germander, lobelia, pennyroyal, poke root, sassafras, scullcap, wormwood, and kombucha tea (not an herb!) and the poisonous plants aconite and belladonna. An accompanying story “Americans Gamble on Herbs as Medicine” quoted pharmacist Varro Tyler as saying, “The lack of quality standards is the No. 1 problem in the whole industry.”

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999.

THE FINAL FRONTIER

The Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York is developing vegan recipes for National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts who will spend months on the moon or Mars. Recipes are limited to 30 crops that can be grown in hydroponic gardens in space. Jean Hunter, Ph.D., project leader and associate professor of agriculture and biological engineering, is cultivating herbs that are suitable for space farms. One project is to find a concentrated sweetener. So far, stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) has been tried unsuccessfully.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999.

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ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS: Plants & Ecology 

NEW FLAMES

A growing candle market—approximately $2.3 billion in 1999—has an average 10-15% annual growth rate, according to the National Candle Association. However, low-grade ingredients can cause candles to emit toxic chemicals such as acetone and benzene and candle makers are not required to list ingredients or warnings. Research at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor suggests that burning lead-cored wicks (used to increase stability and burning time) distributed too much lead into the air. Another problem with candles is when coal-based, synthetic essential oils are used to scent them. The safe alternative is a candle that burns clean made of pure vegetable or bee's wax, true essential oils, and a cotton or hemp wick.

In AHA Volume 16: Issue 1, 2000.

GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOODS

Over 90 million acres are already dedicated to growing genetically engineered or modified (GEF or GMF) foods such as corn, tomatoes, potatoes, peanuts, and soybeans (including soy-derived health products). In November 1999, the us house of representatives introduced the “Genetically Engineered Food Right To Know Act” to require labeling these foods, even in restaurants. The Federal Drug Association says GE foods need to be labeled only when their nutritional content is dramatically changed, but a bipartisan group of 48 members of Congress informed the FDA that the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act already requires labeling. The bill is supported by the National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture and the Organic Consumer Association. Even the National Food Processors Association, a supporter of the FDA’s pro-biotech stance, wants to see criteria established for voluntary claims such as “Biotech free” and “contains biotech Ingredients.” The National Family Farm Coalitions and 24 other farm groups want an immediate moratorium on GE foods. They are concerned that worldwide consumer rejection puts farms that grow them at risk of not selling their crop. Three public meetings on GE foods by the FDA in November and December 1999 were swamped with public requests to speak and had demonstrations. Meanwhile, many food companies in Europe are refusing to use GE ingredients. Britain extended its ban on the foods until the year 2002 while it studies environmental effects in test fields. The debate escalated in May 1999 when the science journal Nature published a Cornell University study suggesting that monarch caterpillars were killed by pollen from corn bred to naturally produce the insecticide Bt. The biotech industry responded with its own study, although not published or peer-reviewed, that counters the first. The Campaign to Label GEF in Seattle, Washington is trying to increase support for the bill and to have GE foods tested before they are sold and asking that letters be written to elected officials. Letters e-mailed to the Center for Food Safety’s website (www.foodsafetynow.org) will be electronically forward to the FDA, President Clinton, Vice President Gore, and the letter-writer’s senators and representatives.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

PLANT PROTECTION

The Montana State Government issued three-year moratorium on the harvesting of several wild, medicinal herbs on state land, Including echinacea (Echinacea augustfolia), bitter root (Lewisia rediiviva), lomatium (Lomatium dissectum), trillium (Trillium ovatum), and all species of both sundew (Drosera spp.) and lady’s slipper (Cypripedium spp.). The Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are observing the moratorium. [Also see AHA 15:1.] North Dakota passed a law that imposes a $10,000 fine and confiscation of any vehicle when echinacea poachers are caught on state or private lands. Beginning with the 1999 harvest, the US Fish and Wildlife Service will only issue export permits for mature wild ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) or "wild" cultivated roots. The National Park Service says ginseng is disappearing from the parks even though it is unlawful to collect it there. In 1977, American ginseng was added to Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, which requires export permits. (500,000 cultivated pounds are exported annually.)

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999.

CONSERVING MEXICAN PLANTS

A study on the diminishing wild populations of some Mexican medicinal plants was part of a medical anthropology, ethnobotany, and health promotion project by the Mexican government that included a regional peasant organization. It was determined that the first sign of the depletion of local herbs is when they start coming from distant areas and the price increases. Puebla's supply of Mexican sarsaparilla (Smilax aristolochiaefolia) and hand plant tree (Chirantodendron pentadactylon) now come from the state of Chiapas, and other herbs are brought in from Chile though it is also becoming harder to get herbs from distant sources. Eventually, the herbs become too expensive for many Mexicans. Regional traders report the most difficult herbs to obtain are those collected for roots or bark, such as quetchalalatl bark (Amphipterygium adstringens), which is used to treat malaria and as a red dye. Large amounts of native valerian (Valeriana edulis) are exported to Germany, where its sedative activity is being studied in comparison to European valerian (V. officinale). It is called Valeriana de primera (best), but now is often replaced by raîz de gato which is a weaker, unidentified species known as the second best, or "de segunda."

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999.

ALTERNATIVE ROUNDUP

Penn State biologist Dr. Rod Heisey may have a natural alternative to the popular herbicide Roundup. He isolated a natural herbicide called ailanthone from the root bark of the tree-of-heaven (ailanthus altissima), which is usually considered a “weed” tree because it reseeds itself so easily. The compound effectively kills unwanted plants both before and after they put out leaves, then breaks down in the soil so it leaves no toxic residue. Unfortunately, the tree itself is in danger of being greatly reduced in the Northeast by a fungus that is killing it off in the Long Island Sound. While those who want to eliminate alien species like this one may applaud, several other even more invasive plants are starting to take its place.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999.

WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE?

Montana Indian leaders, herbalists, conservationists, and state Sen. Linda Nelson (D) presented January 1999 legislation for a three year moratorium on digging echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) on state lands, with a hefty $1000 fine for each day. According to a University of Montana thesis on wildcrafting Echinacea angustifolia, more than 700,000 pounds of dried root were collected in the state in one year. The Dakota Prairie Grasslands, a department of the US Forest Service, stopped issuing special permits for commercial collection and the procedure is under review.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999.

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LEGAL HERBS: Reports on legal issues about herbs

FDA RESPONSES TO HERB LABELS

The difference between the “structure/function” claims permitted by the Dietary Supplement Health Education Act, or DSHEA [see AHA 11:2, 11:4, 12:1, 12:3, 14:4 ] and medical claims is still a gray area. When companies submitted labels for review, the FDA said several products looked like they were intended for use as drugs (to treat, prevent, cure, or mitigate disease). Examples are the that a 13-herb “Chinese Joint Complex” controls “swelling and increased body temperature” and that another product affects “the efficacy and safety of saw palmetto supplementation in men with prostate problems...” The FDA also said that using “PMS” in product names, suggests they treat PMS. Similar implications are made with the names “Natural Herbal Energizer” and “Nite Restful.” Companies were warned against stating that ephedra “relieves the immune system, respiratory complaints like bronchitis and asthma;” that ginkgo treats “asthma, allergies and coughs, and may help dizziness, stroke, depression;” that ginger is a “natural remedy for nausea, helps spasms and cramps, upset stomach, motion sickness, may also lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation;” and that bladderwrack can “normalize the thyroid gland and aids in combating obesity.”

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000.

PERU RESTRICTS CAT’S CLAW

Peru has outlawed export of cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa)—an anti-inflationary and immune system builder—to protect their natural resource from becoming scarce. Only exportation of cultivated cat’s claw is permitted, although wildcat's claw is still finding its way out of the country. Some wild root and bark are still harvested in “controlled” areas, and then processed in Peru. [See Herb Report, AHA 10:3 & Legal, 12:1.]

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999.

DATABASE OF SUPPLEMENTS

The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements now has a database of scientific literature on dietary supplements called the International Cicliographic Information on Dietary Supplements, or IBIDS. Maintained with the help of the Food and Nutrition Information Center, the National Agricultural Library, the Agricultural Research Service, and the US Department of Agriculture, it simultaneously searches 11 medical, botanical, agricultural, chemical and pharmaceutical databases. It can be located through the ODS Internet home page: dietary-supplements.info.nih.gov

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999.

AMA ETHICS

The American Medical Association approved a December 1998 resolution to develop "ethical guidelines" for goods and services sold or offered as samples by physicians to discriminate between those that are considered medically necessary and ones that "exploit patient-physician trust." The financial incentives and marketing pressure from "health and fitness companies" was given as the main reason for the guidelines. This follows a November publication of AMA's journal JAMA devoted to alternative therapies and herbal medicine.

In AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999.

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HERB REPORTS: An in depth look at up and coming herbs

By Kathi Keville, AHA Director

Aswhaganda       (Withania somnifera)

With Candis Canton Packard, Ayurvedic Herbalist

Ashwaganda root is considered an adaptagen, somewhat akin to ginseng (Panax ginseng), so is sometimes called “Indian” ginseng. Similarly, ashwaganda probably impacts the pituitary-adrenal axis. It appears to regulate brain chemistry and to lessen physical problems and memory loss during stressful times. Researchers think that it also helps maintain immune system functions and prevent weight loss while undergoing cancer therapy. Our observations back this up. Of three main types of active constituents, most notable are the steroidal lactones called withanolides. They inhibit B- and T- immune cells. Ashwaganda'a antistress, anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, and anti-aging effects are partly because it is an antioxidant. In one study, Ashwaganda lessened stiffness, pain, and general disability in arthritics. In the brain, ashwaganda is thought to affect metabolism of the brain's monoamines, increasing availability of the neurotransmitter dopamine and stimulating the central nervous system. Ashwaganda also increases respiration and iron in the blood and counters liver toxicity (at least in part due to its flavonoid quercetin). For men in their 50s, it increased red blood cell count, hemoglobin, melanin in the hair, and stature when seated. Cholesterol and red blood sedimentation rates also dropped in many men and some reported enhanced sexual performance. Rather than a stimulant like ginseng, the root is mildly sedative. It contains several compounds that relax smooth muscles and reduce blood pressure, insomnia, and inflammation. A medicated ashwaganda wine given to 30 people, greatly lessened anxiety with moderate reductions in heart palpitations, tremors, headache, anorexia, poor concentration, fatigue, and irritability.

Full 1-page report in AHA Volume 16: Issue 1, 2000, fully referenced.

Oregano  (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano's chemistry depends on where and how it is grown. Of the true oreganos, a sub-species called Turkish or black oregano (O. vulgare sub. hirtum) is the preferred herb and essential oil because its high carvacrol content provides the distinctive oregano flavor. It can contain up to 80% carvacrol and is usually fairly high in thymol as compared to about 0.5% carvacrol and 1-2% thymol in common oregano (O. Vulgare). Nearly eight tons of hirtum oil are produced each year,  although its chemistry varies so much, trained noses have identified different versions of it as oregano, thyme, and marjoram. The subspecies viride can be up to half thymol, making it smell and taste like thyme. Most of oregano’s medicinal fame comes from the essential oil’s ability to loosen respiratory congestion and especially to fight bacterial and fungal infections. Carvacrol is about 1.5 times and thymol about 20 times more powerful than the antiseptic drug phenol. Oregano was one of four spices out of 43 that killed 30 species of bacteria, including those responsible for Salmonella food poisoning and staph infections. [See Clippings, AHA 14:4]. It also relieves indigestion, increases sweating, and is reputed as a mild nerve tonic that eases headaches, nervousness, toothache, and, when used as a warming liniment, muscle and joint pain. Antispasmodic action due to carvacrol was found in Moroccan oregano (O. compactum), pot marjoram (O. onites), and probably exists in other species. Oregano also helps regulate menstruation. Japanese researchers showed that it destroys a common dietary carcinogen that is one of nature’s strongest mutagens, thanks in part to the flavonoids galangin and quercetin. In a University of Wisconsin study, carvacrol and thymol were slightly effective against melanoma. Oregano oil also stops fungus from growing on stored grains. Other research shows that carvacrol inhibits Candida, E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is thought to work by interfering with yeast cell functioning and wall assembly by binding to cell membranes.

Full 1-page report in AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000, fully referenced.

Perilla (Perilla frutscens)

Perilla is the curious purple leaf in pickled ginger. An annual native to the mountains of China, it has a long tradition as a medicine. Botanists generally recognize the purple-leafed as one species and the green-leafed as another. The purple has six distinct chemical types (chemotypes) with slightly different essential oils combinations. The citral type is lemon-scented. North America gardeners call it purple mint, Chinese basil, beefsteak plant, or wild coleus (although it is not a coleus, mint, or basil), and by the Japanese name, shisho. A ketone in the essential oil called rosefuran— also found in Bulgarian rose—contributes to its characteristic scent and makes perilla oil a potential product for the perfumery industry. Perillaldehyde in the essential oil inhibits fungal growth and Salmonella (which causes food poisoning). Out of 18 vegetables screened for their ability to regulate the immune system, perilla and ginger (Zingiber officinale) were most active. Together, they reduced asthma and chronic bronchitis in two-thirds of 500 patients. Perilla stimulates interferon activity, may modify the over-reaction of antibodies to allergens, and inhibits TNF (a protein secreted by macrophages to destroy tumors that can damage tissue and cause inflammation). In one study, there was 83% improvement in allergic skin disorders compared to 17% when using safflower oil. The fixed oil is one of the richest oil sources of alpha-linolenic acid, which aids brain function, sight, and lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Work is underway to isolate the anthocyanins for use as natural dye and medicine. Perilla also contains perillartine, which is reported to be 2000 times sweeter than sugar.

Full 1-page report in AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 2000, fully referenced.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm, a member of the mint (labiatae) family, was selected as Medicinal Plant of the Year in Europe in 1988. Besides flavonoids, oleanane, and glycosides, the leaves contain an essential oil similar to lemon grass, except for methyl citronellate, which makes its fragrance unique. (Beekeepers know it well because the scent closely resembles the pheromone produced by bees, which thus are very attracted to it.) The oil's composition varies depending upon where the plant is grown, with some Spanish plants containing as much as 0.8%. Other important constituents are triterpenes, flavonoids, and caffeic, melitric, and rosemarinic acids. (It is standardized to its rosemarinic acid content.) Lemon balm is strongly antiviral against viruses such as Newcastle disease, mumps, and herpes simplex. (The antiviral action seems mostly due to tannin, caffeic, and rosemarinic acids, which block receptors so the virus can not attach itself to the cell, and to its essential oil—one of the strongest antiviral oils.) In two clinical studies, a German lemon balm cream effectively treated and prevented herpes cold sores when applied 2 to 4 times. Lemon balm also inhibited the HIV-1 virus in laboratory studies. So far, studies show that it reduces bacterial infections caused by Mycobacterium phlei (source of tuberculosis and leprosy) and Streptococcus hemolytica, which is responsible for upper respiratory infections. Traditional medicine also recommends lemon balm to treat colds and flu, and an old European tradition uses it for cancers, especially of the digestive tract. In laboratory tests, it inhibited the division of cancer cells. Lemon balm reduces inflammation and is used to quell pain and swelling from cold sores and insect bites. Science also supports its traditional use as a muscle relaxant, sedative, and pain reliever. To ease digestive spasms and menstrual cramps, nervous system problems, insomnia, and headaches, including migraines. The essential oil was previously thought to be the sole antispasmodic, but other components are also active. Lemon balm lowers thyroid activity and can be useful in treating Grave's disease, in which the thyroid is over stimulated. (Herbalist Ryan Drum has found it quite useful.) A lemon balm extract binds with thyrotropin to prevent it and the thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) from stimulating thyroid receptor sites. However, using it is not a health concern for most people with normal thyroids.

Full 1-page report in AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999, fully referenced.

FLAX SEED OIL

Flax is a pretty European native wild flower that now grows wild throughout much of North America. The slender, grass-like stem and leaves are topped with two, bright blue flowers. This versatile plant been used for over 10,000 years to make cloth. Flaxseed is the best natural source of alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. It contains 58%—over twice the amount in fish oil, and also omega-6 linoleic acid, and oleic acid (a major component in olive oil [See AHA 13:4]. This balance often makes it a better choice than primrose and borage seed oils that contain GLA, omega-6 oil already found in animal products and vegetable oils since the body needs a balance of both. Omega-3 is in cold-water fish, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and some algae.

Full 1-page report in AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999, fully referenced.

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Newsletter Themes:

AHA Volume 13: Issue 4, 1998: Aromatherapy with essential oil books & video reviews.

AHA Volume 14: Issue 1, 1998: Plant Spirit Medicine & Cancer Therapies with related books.

AHA Volume 14: Issue 2, 1998: History of Natural Pharmacy & Herbs.

AHA Volume 14: Issue 3, 1998: Woman's Herbs & Gardening with book reviews.

AHA Volume 14: Issue 4, 1999: Aromatherapy with book & video reviews.

AHA Volume 15: Issue 1, 1999: Wild Herbs with wildflower ID book & CD reviews.

AHA Volume 15: Issue 2, 1999: Herb Gardening with book & video reviews.

AHA Volume 15: Issue 3, 1999: Chinese & Tibetan Herbs with book reviews by herbalists Christopher Hobbs & David Wiuston

AHA Volume 15: Issue 4, 2000: Culinary Herbs with book reviews by herbalist Diana DeLuca

AHA Volume 16: Issue 4, 2000: Ayurvedic Herbs with book reviews by Ayurvedic herbalist Candis Canton Packard.

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