| Recommendation | Rationale | Notes |
| Chamomile
(Matricaria chamomilla)
3%10% infusions for external use;
34 cups freshly prepared tea for internal use | Used externally, chamomile relieves irritated skin; internally it soothes gastrointestinal complaints and helps induce relaxation and sleep. | A cup of chamomile tea before bed promotes sleep. |
| Garlic
(Allium sativum)
4 g/day fresh garlic | Garlic is preventive medicine for age-related vascular changes. | Garlic consumption can substantially increase the anticoagulant effects of blood thinners; don't use large amounts of garlic before surgery because it can prolong bleeding time. |
| Ginkgo
(Ginkgo biloba)
4060 mg standardized extract 3x/day
(120180 mg/day) | Ginkgo is said to increase memory performance and learning capacity. | Ginkgo extracts may enhance the effects of platelet-aggregation inhibitors. |
| Hawthorn
(Crataegus spp)
120240 mg standardized extract 3x/day | This herb strengthens the heart and circulation. | If you are taking drugs for high blood pressure or heart problems, consult a professional herbalist before using hawthorn. |
| Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens)
12 g/day | This herb relieves difficulties (such as urination problems) associated with an enlarged prostate but does not reduce the enlargement. | Saw palmetto was touted as an aphrodisiac by Native Americans. |
| Sources: The Complete German Commission E Monographs (American Botanical Council, 1998); PDR for Herbal Medicines (Medical Economics Co., 2000). |
