Herbal Remedy Rundown: Valerian, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John's Wort, Horse Chestnut, Saw Palmetto, Yohimbe

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In a rundown of herbal remedies by Dr. E. Ernst, School of Postgraduate Medicine, U. of Exeter, England, he observed that, "According to 'the] evidence, there is little doubt that ...St. John's Wort is well tolerated and effective for mild to moderate depression. Valerian...has not been shown beyond a reasonable doubt to be effective for insomnia. There is recent compelling evidence that Ginkgo Biloba is effective in delaying the clinical course of dementia. It has been well documented that...Horse Chestnut seed extracts alleviate the perception of symptoms and reduce the 'actual] signs of venous insufficiency." These are characterized by leg pains, typically, but of course should be diagnosed.

"...Saw Palmetto is effective in improving the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia 'characterized by erratic urine flow and night time urinating needs in men.] Finally, yohimbe has been shown to be effective for erectile dysfunction.

"It is concluded that several plant-based medicines can be useful additions to our therapeutic repertoire for treating common conditions in the elderly. However, several uncertainties remain and, at present, prevent unreserved recommendations."

Herbal Remedy Rundown: Valerian, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John's Wort, Horse Chestnut, Saw Palmetto, Yohimbe Biography

Drugs & Aging, Dec., l999  Dr. E. Ernst, School of Postgraduate Medicine, U. of Exeter, England