There is a wide variety of herbal supplements available on the market and across much of the world. As a type of natural medicine, herbal supplements can be more effective in providing bodily health than other types of health products. Following are five lesser-known herbal supplements that have potential benefits that make them worthwhile to check out.
Five Herbal Supplements that Merit Your Attention
Herbal supplements are herbal products made from plants which are consumed for internal use for their health benefits. Botanical products and phytomedicines are similar, and often grouped together alongside products made specifically from herbs. Here are five herbal and botanical supplements that might surprise you if you don’t already know about them.
Arjuna, scientifically deemed Terminalia arjuna, is an herb with a history of traditional use in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Studies in recent years have shown that taking arjuna could have some positive effects on the body for those who experience cardiovascular disorders. Arjuna contains flavonoids and other natural and healthy compounds, and antioxidant and anti-ischemic properties that can support heart health. Research has linked arjuna to improvement in those with cardiovascular conditions such as mild hypertension and dyslipidemia.
Barley grass is a natural supplement made from just that: barley grass. It is an affordable and underrated herbal product. Barley grass refers to young barley plants that have yet to produce seeds, and which are chock-full of nutrients. A concentrated supplement of barley grass leaves or powder can be taken for a variety of benefits. First, barley grass can greatly support digestion because it contains both soluble and insoluble fibers, which assist digestion in more than one way. It also has antioxidant properties that reduce the bodily conditions that lead to many kinds of chronic disease, and contains calcium which supports bone health, and more.
Guggul extract is a type of gum resin extracted from various plants which are native to India and other eastern countries. Tapped from these plants similarly to maple syrup, guggul extract contains essential oils and amino acids, and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that supplementing with guggul extract could mitigate symptoms of skin conditions like eczema and acne. Guggul extract could also help mitigate hypothyroidism by increasing iodine uptake and thyroid enzyme activity. Lastly, guggul extract could help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms.
Silica is a natural trace mineral that is extracted from a few different plant species. One of the most common and most studied sources of silica is the horsetail plant, or Equisetum arvense. The most prominent potential benefit of silica is its ability to help prevent hair loss, as well as hair breakage. Research shows that silica can do this by supporting the delivery of nutrients to the scalp, and to hair follicles specifically. Along with contributing to healthy hair growth, silica can support healthy skin, and strong nails, as well.
Pau D’Arco inner bark is made from the Tabebuia tree, native to Central and South America. Pau D’arco bark is naturally very dense and rot-resistant, and Pau D’arco trees can grow to 125 feet tall. Tribal peoples long used it as a natural remedy. Pau D’arco contains natural compounds called naphthoquinones which are its purported active ingredients. This bark has anti-inflammatory potency which is strong enough to treat osteoarthritis symptoms, and reduce inflammation related to other conditions. It also has antibacterial properties which can combat disease-causing bacteria in the gut.
An herbal supplement can be effective, and perhaps more so than other types of supplements, remedies, or medicines in some cases. Consider the benefits of these five underestimated herbal supplements. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.