dietary supplements and herbal remedies H-R

HAWTHORNE
Hawthorne is an herb with a long history of use for heart ailments. Research has
demonstrated that it can improve the heart’s pumping action and is helpful in the
treatment of congestive heart failure. It may also lower blood pressure and reduce
palpitations and angina. It is generally well tolerated; side effects are minor and may
include dizziness, upset stomach, headache, and skin rash.
INDOLE-3 CARBINOL
Indole-3 carbinol is a nutrient found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, cabbage, caulifl ower, and kale. It has anti-cancer properties, aids in
detoxifi cation of estrogen, reduces the levels of free radicals, and protects liver function.
It has been shown in preliminary research to reduce estrogen-promoted cancers
(cervical and breast). There are no known side effects.
IPRIFLAVONE
Iprifl avone, a synthetic fl avonoid derived from soy, is widely used for osteoporosis
(available as a supplement in Canada, yet sold as a prescription drug in many other
countries). Many studies have shown that when combined with calcium, it can slow
and even reverse bone breakdown; it also helps reduce the pain of fractures caused
by osteoporosis. It is generally well tolerated; one study found that long-term use
(three years) reduced levels of lymphocytes (white blood cells). Use under doctor’s
supervision if you have immune defi ciency (HIV), kidney disease, or are taking immune-
suppressant drugs.
LECITHIN
Lecithin is a source of phosphatidylcholine, a phospholipid (fat-soluble component
of all cell membranes). Supplements of lecithin are broken down in the body into
choline, which promotes methylation and is used to make acetylcholine, a nerve
chemical essential for proper brain function. Some research supports benefi ts for liver
disease; lowering homocysteine; and the treatment of bipolar, Alzheimer’s, and other
neurological disorders. It is generally well tolerated.
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LICORICE
Licorice is an herb with long history of use for digestion and immune support. It
contains glycyrrhizin, which causes fl uid retention and can raise blood pressure;
supplements of deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) do not cause these effects. DGL
has been studied for ulcer prevention and treatment, and is generally well tolerated.
Licorice is used for cough and asthma; topical products may help relieve eczema. It
may raise blood pressure, lower testosterone in men, and have estrogenic effects; it is
not recommended during pregnancy, breast-feeding, or for use by those with cancer.
LUTEIN
Lutein, an antioxidant pigment in the carotenoid family, is found in dark green and
yellow vegetables. It is highly concentrated in the macula of the eye (behind retina)
and plays a role in protecting the retina from oxidative damage and UV light. Research
supports benefi ts for prevention of cataracts and macular degeneration. It is very well
tolerated; there are no known drug interactions.
LYCOPENE
Lycopene is a potent antioxidant (carotenoid) naturally present in red vegetables and
fruits (tomatoes, pink grapefruit, and watermelon). Research supports benefi ts for
prevention of prostate cancer and pre-eclampsia, and treatment of asthma; it may
also help prevent macular degeneration, cataracts, and heart disease. It is very well
tolerated; there are no known drug interactions.
LYSINE
An amino acid naturally present in meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, and beans.
Regular supplement use has been shown to prevent cold sores; it may also prevent
genital herpes fl are-ups. It is generally well tolerated.
MELATONIN
Melatonin, a hormone that is produced in the brain and released in response to
darkness, regulates our biological clock (sleep and wake cycles). Supplements have
been shown to help shorten the time needed to fall asleep, improve sleep quality,
and help with disrupted sleep cycles (such as with travellers and shift workers). It
may also help in the treatment of depression, seasonal affective disorder, anxiety,
schizophrenia, cluster headaches, and to improve quality of life in cancer patients.
Supplements are taken half an hour to one hour before bed to promote better rest. It
is well tolerated and does not cause next-day drowsiness; it is not recommended during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

METHYLSULFONYLMETHANE (MSM)
MSM is a naturally occurring sulphur compound in the body; it is also present in
certain foods (vegetables). It may be helpful for osteoarthritis, recovery from sports
injuries, and for growth of nails and hair, although research is preliminary. It is very
well tolerated; there are no known drug interactions.

MILK THISTLE
Milk thistle, an herb with a long history of use for liver and spleen disorders, contains
a fl avonoid complex called silymarin, which is responsible for its antioxidant,
detoxifying, and liver health benefi ts. Research supports its use for the treatment of viral and alcoholic hepatitis, and liver cirrhosis. Preliminary research suggests that
it might protect the liver against drug-induced toxicity caused by acetaminophen
(Tylenol) and phenytoin (Dilantin). It is generally well tolerated; there are no known drug interactions.

MODUCARE
Moducare, a patented blend of plant sterols and sterolins (plant fats), helps to restore,
strengthen, and balance the immune system. Several studies have demonstrated its
immune-modulating effects. It is not recommended for use by those with organ
transplants or those taking immune-suppressant drugs; use only under doctor’s supervision
if pregnant, lactating, diabetic, or if you have an immune disorder.

NETTLE
Nettle is an herb widely used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia; many
studies show benefi ts for reducing symptoms. Preliminary research suggests benefi ts
for allergies; topical products are used to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It may be
more benefi cial when combined with pygeum and/or saw palmetto, and is generally
well tolerated.
PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE
Phosphatidylserine, a phospholipid (fat component of cell membrane) made by the
body, performs vital functions such as moving nutrients into cells and pumping waste
products out of them. Research shows that supplements can help improve memory,
mental function, and depression in the elderly, and it is useful in the treatment of
Alzheimer’s. It is well tolerated, but may cause mild upset stomach; it may enhance
the effect of blood-thinning drugs and supplements, requiring dosage adjustments.
PHYTOSTEROLS/PHYTOSTANOLS
These are naturally occurring compounds (fats) found in almost all plants. Several
studies have found benefi ts with beta-sitosterol (a phytosterol) for reducing symptoms
of prostate enlargement. Phytostanols are added to foods (margarine spreads
and salad dressings) and sold as supplements; studies have shown that phytostanols
and stanol esters can lower cholesterol levels. They are very well tolerated.
POLICOSANOL
Numerous studies have shown that policosanol, a waxy substance obtained from
sugar cane, can substantially lower cholesterol, similarly to prescription drugs. It may
enhance the effects of blood-thinning drugs and supplements so dosage adjustments
may be necessary; it is not recommended during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
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PROBIOTICS
Also known as friendly or benefi cial bacteria, probiotics are normally present in
the mouth, digestive and urinary tracts, and vaginal area. They are also present in
some fermented dairy foods (live culture yogurt), although potency and stability is
questionable. They provide many health benefi ts by protecting against infection by
harmful bacteria (yeast and bacteria), aiding in detoxifi cation, producing vitamins,
aiding digestion, and supporting immune function. Research supports benefi ts for
travellers’ diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel, ulcerative colitis, eczema, allergies,
and tooth decay. They also improve immune function, reduce cholesterol,
prevent and treat yeast infections, and enhance ulcer treatment. Choose products
that are tested for potency and stability, and made from human strains. Probiotics
are well tolerated.
PYGEUM
Pygeum is a tree whose bark contains phytosterols and compounds that reduce infl
ammation and modulate testosterone activity in the prostate. Studies have found it
benefi cial for improving symptoms of an enlarged prostate; it may also be benefi cial
for prostatitis (prostate infection). It is often combined with saw palmetto or nettle
root, which are also benefi cial for reducing prostate symptoms, and is very well
tolerated.
RED CLOVER
Red clover is a plant with a history of use for skin disorders, cough, and as a diurectic.
Recent research has focused on its isofl avones, which work as phytoestrogens, with
possible benefi ts for menopause. Studies have yielded mixed results for reducing hot
fl ashes. It may help reduce cholesterol levels and protect against osteoporosis by reducing
bone loss. It is not recommended during pregnancy, breast-feeding, or for use
by those with breast or uterine cancer. It may enhance the effect of blood-thinning
drugs, so dosage adjustments may be necessary.
RELORA
Relora, a proprietary blend of extracts of magnolia and phellodendron, has been
studied for its stress-relieving properties. It promotes relaxation without sedation,
normalizes stress hormones, and reduces stress-related eating. It is generally well
tolerated, but may cause mild upset stomach.
RHODIOLA
Rhodiola, an herb classifi ed as an adaptogen, was used historically to combat stress
and fatigue and to speed recovery from illness. Studies have demonstrated benefi ts
for reducing fatigue and enhancing mental function. Preliminary research suggests
that it may help with altitude sickness and may aid cancer chemotherapy by protecting
the liver against drug-induced damage. There are no known side effects or
drug interactions.