Post-traumatic stress disorder, particularly in response to past sexual abuse, is far more prevalent in today's society than is commonly acknowledged. Many patients suffering the consequences of ...
Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii)
• Sharp thorns
• Invasive
• Zones 5 to 8
natural healer
Berberine combats high cholesterol
• WHAT IT IS Berberine is an alkaloid--a plant-based substance that can have a medicinal effect. (Morphine, nicotine, and caffeine are alkaloids. Berberine is found in herbs such as Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), and barberry (Berberis vulgaris), at right.
• WHAT FOLK MEDICINE SAYS In use for centuries, berberine-containing herbs have been prescribed for liver disease, skin inflammations, diarrhea, and other disorders.
A cream containing the plant Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) may relieve psoriasis, a skin condition that's notoriously difficult to treat. In a 3-month placebo-controlled study of 171 people, the cream, called Reliéva, reduced redness and scaly skin patches with no side effects. The herb seems to block an enzyme that triggers scaly skin growth. Apply two or three times daily for as long as needed. Order via www.prevention.com/links; $35 for 100 g, plus shipping.
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By Sara Altshul
Our herbal advisor swears by Oregon grape
If you have psoriasis, eczema, or blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation), here's some good news: At my clinic/pharmacy in London, we've discovered a safe, effective herbal treatment.
Here's the story: I read about a wonder cure for skin diseases in an old medical textbook. Made from Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium), it was introduced in 1869 by Parke, Davis, and Company. Intrigued, I investigated and found plenty of evidence that physicians were actually winning the war against these skin diseases with a common herb.
From the Cutting Edge
...to Keep Disease at Bay
"What's on the cutting edge of herbal medicine?" Prevention asked one of Europe's leading medicinal herbalists. His surprising answer: "Good old-fashioned tonics-herbal remedies you can take for weeks, months, even years to prevent diseases as varied as colds and cancer."
I run a clinic and research facility in London, where I prescribe disease-preventing tonic herbs for many of my patients. For more than 10 years, I've researched, prescribed, and personally used tonics.
