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| headaches, and depression. In general, it is also used as a stomach remedy that improves digestion by relieving excess stress. Because of its nervine qualities, it is also advised for the treatment of nervous coughs. 54 Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that Cimicifuga contains substances with endocrine activity that cause a selective reduction of the serum concentration of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and are able to bind to estrogen receptors, thus affecting the reproductive and central and peripheral nervous systems. |
| Black cohosh is a good example of an herb with many diverse and helpful actions. It has a wonderful balancing effect on hormones, relieving many of the symptoms of menopause without the risks associated with HRT use. It is one of the many plants that I recommend for women who have had breast cancer to safely help them through menopause. |
| Bloodroot (Sanguinaria) |
| Bloodroot possesses antitumor, antiviral, and antimicrobial actions. Both the isoguinoline alkaloids sanguinarine and chelerythrine (also found in celandine) have been shown to uncouple oxidative phosphorylation and inhibit reverse transcriptase enzyme which is required for the replication of an RNA virus. These and other alkaloids in bloodroot have been shown to exert a therapeutic effect against Ehrlich carcinoma (in mice) and a significant necrotizing effect on sarcoma 37 (also in mice). Bloodroot was traditionally used as part of a paste to treat forms of skin cancer. Eli Jones believed blood-root to be most useful in cancer of the rectum.55 |
| Boldo (Peumus boldo) |
| One of the most widely used herbs in South America, boldo is an excellent general tonic. It has been used traditionally to treat liver and bowel dysfunctions. It aids in digestion by stimulating the secretion of bile. |
| Boswellan (Boswellia serrata) |
| Boswellan, also known as Indian frankincense, contains gumlike resinous constituents referred to as boswellic acids. These exhibit potent anti-inflammatory, |
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