If you are pregnant, you should not use licorice root, despite its purported medicinal properties. None of these properties are proven, and licorice is potentially damaging to both mother and developing fetus. In addition, licorice root may cause health problems even if you are not pregnant.
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Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng, is a commonly used herbal supplement purported to boost immune system function, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce erectile dysfunction symptoms, among other things.
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Fish oil is a popular supplement that contains high levels of two omega-3 fatty acids: DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid. Though treatment with fish oil is usually associated with heart disease prevention in adults, children may also benefit from taking fish oil.
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Bitter melon, also known as balsam pear or kerela, is a plant widely cultivated in Asia, Africa and South America. The fruit, seeds, leaves and roots have long been used in traditional remedies, including some for diabetes.
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Fenugreek is both a spice and a medicinal supplement commonly used in regions of the Middle East, Egypt and India. As a supplement, fenugreek has been used historically to treat stomach problems, bronchitis, arthritis and constipation. Fenugreek may also improve breast milk production in lactating women.
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For people who struggle with anemia -- a condition characterized by low red blood cell levels -- iron supplements can help alleviate the severe fatigue, weakness and breathing difficulties associated with this condition.
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Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night is a problem that can severely affect your ability to function normally during the day. If you experience recurrent sleep problems, talk with your medical provider about using a natural herb called valerian root to help you sleep.
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Your body requires small amounts of biotin -- also called vitamin H -- to convert the food you consume into energy. Biotin also supports the healthy growth of your nails and hair. If you're uncertain how much biotin you need each day, seek additional guidance from your medical provider.
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Also used as a flavorful herb in cooking, sage is an herb commonly used as a digestive aid. Although more research is needed to examine the purported benefits of sage, alternative medicinal uses of sage include sore throat relief, reduced sweating and anxiety, and enhanced mental function.
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Kelp is an iodine-rich sea plant that is used as both a food and medicinal supplement. Taking more than 2,000 mcg of kelp per day may lead to the development of overdose signs and symptoms.
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GABA, known more formally as gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a chemical in the brain responsible for sending nerve signals throughout your central nervous system. Treatment with GABA supplements are purported to help reduce high blood pressure as well as symptoms of stress, anxiety and insomnia.
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Native to the Mediterranean, saffron is a orange-yellow spice commonly used as both a food additive and as a medicinal treatment. Traditionally, saffron has been used to alleviate menstruation discomfort, mood problems and muscle spasms. More research is needed, however, to support these purported medicinal benefits.
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Ibuprofen is a commonly used over-the-counter and prescription pain medication that is part of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) class. When taken at the recommended dose, ibuprofen can alleviate symptoms associated with pain, inflammation or fever with minimal side effects.
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Both the NBA and NCAA rules prohibit intentional kicking of the basketball. The rules classify intentional kicking of the ball as a violation resulting in a dead ball and a stoppage in play.
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The human body needs sodium and potassium to remain healthy. These two electrolytes have many functions including maintaining nerve and muscle function.
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Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars, located at the very back of the mouth. When a mouth is not large enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth, they may only partially erupt, come in poorly aligned or damage the surrounding teeth and roots.
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Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for the treatment of burns and wounds. The plant is related to the cactus and produces two substances that are used, gel and latex. It can be grown at home and the leaves broken open and used directly on burns.
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The leading causes of death in men over 40 are heart disease and cancer, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States.
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McDonald’s and Subway are two popular fast food restaurant options. McDonald’s sales are so significant that they are a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Subway stores were growing at a rate of 40 new stores each week in September 2009.
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You have a variety of options when you purchase peanut butter. Peanut butter can be hydrogenated, partially hydrogenated and unrefined. The unrefined peanut butter is made of just peanuts that have been crushed. The oil in this type of peanut butter will separate from the peanuts and must be stirred back in.
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