Green tea Antioxidant, protects 3–4 cups/day NOT to be used in
against cancer, lowers large quantities dur-
cholesterol, helps regulate ing pregnancy, people
blood sugar and insulin with anxiety disorder
levels or irregular heartbeat
should limit use to no
more than 2 cups
daily
Kava For anxiety, insomnia, 100 mg three times daily Intoxicating in large
low energy, muscle tension amounts, with poten-
tial for abuse
Milk Thistle Antioxidant for all Varying No known side effects
liver disorders; psoriasis
St. John’s For mild to moderate 900 mg/day, for at least NOT for pregnant and
Wort depression, viral infections 4–8 weeks lactating women, not
including HIV and herpes for children; NOT for
use with other antide-
pressants; may cause
photosensitivity; avoid
foods with tyramine
and OTC cold and flu
remedies, amino acid
supplements
Saw Urinary antiseptic, for 160 mg twice daily Use only after proper
Palmetto benign prostatic hyper- diagnosis from pri-
plasia mary practitioner;
may cause dizziness,
dry mouth, tachycar-
dia, angina, testicular
pain
Selenium Antioxidant especially 200 mcg Excessively high levels
when combined with may lead to liver and
vitamin E, may prevent kidney impairment;
some types of tumors, causes metallic taste
aids in production of in mouth, garlicky
antibodies, protects liver breath odor
Tea Tree Oil Antifungal, antiseptic, Full strength or For external use; do
for acne, minor burns dilute in water or oil NOT ingest
and cuts, athlete’s foot,
nail infections, herpes,
douche for yeast infections92 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Table 6.2 Continued
Herb Properties/Use Form/Dose Notes