An Introduction to Botanical Medicines: History, Science, Uses, and Dangers

by Al-Achi, Antoine

• ISBN13: 9780313350092
• ISBN10: 0313350094
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2008-08-30
• Publisher: Greenwood Pub Group

Summary

For those who want to make educated decisions about whether, and when, to use natural products, this text explains the most current scientific evidence of the roles that plants can play in our health: how they can prevent, modify, or treat disease. Since antiquity, humans have used botanicals to treat various conditions affecting their organ systems, and this book is built around explaining which plants may be used for major ailments affecting the various systems. The increasing availability of botanicals on the market, intended to be used as dietary supplements for health, has been fueled by the public's demand for a more natural approach to healthcare. Unfortunately, much of the information fed to the public on alternatives is based on anecdotal evidence (case stories), the advice of friends, or media features that often do not stand up to standards for scientific evidence. In this book Al-Achi explains current research and science that exists - or remains lacking - for the various botanicals as healthcare products. He also details the potential misuse and the dangers of some herbal formulas. Photographs of 62 medicinal plants are included.

Author Biography

Antoine Al-Achi is Associate Professor of Pharmaceutics in the School of Pharmacy at Campbell University in North Carolina.

Table of Contents

Series Foreword	p. ix
Preface	p. xi
Acknowledgments	p. xvii
Botanical Medicine Use	p. 1
Botanicals with Anticancer Activity	p. 17
Botanicals for Cardiovascular and Circulatory System	p. 37
Topical Applications: Botanicals for Skin Disorders	p. 49
Botanicals for the Endocrine System	p. 61
Gastrointestinal Botanicals	p. 78
Botanicals for Men's Health	p. 86
Botanicals for Women's Health	p. 92
Botanicals for Psychiatric Disorders	p. 112
Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Antiviral, and Antiparasitic Botanicals	p. 119
Natural Remedies for Pain Control	p. 133
Herbal Safety	p. 138
References	p. 149
Index	p. 185
Table of Contents provided by Ingram. All Rights Reserved.