Herbal Hopes and Hypes

Herbal Hopes and Hypes
October 1999 -- Nutrition Notes

By: Andrea Platzman, R.D.
Contributing Editor

  Since early history, people have used leaves, bark, roots and seeds as medicine. Currently, approximately 50% of all drugs are derived from plants. Plants that have a soft and fleshy stem are known as herbs, as opposed to shrubs and trees, which have bark. The term herb also refers to any plant or plant part used medicinally or for flavoring food.

  Currently, the herbal market is booming. Annual sales last year reached $4 billion, and the market is growing annually at a rate of about 18% - thanks mainly to consumers who are seeking out natural, holistic and organic remedies.

  The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), Washington, D.C., has classified the over 600 known botanicals into four categories:

  Class 1: Herbs that can be safely consumed when used appropriately.

  Class 2: Herbs for which the following use restrictions apply, unless otherwise directed by an expert qualified in the use of the described substance:

  Class 3: Herbs for which significant data exist to recommend the following labeling: "To be used only under the supervision of an expert qualified in the appropriate use of this substance." Labeling must include proper use information - dosage, contraindications, potential adverse effects and drug interactions and any other relevant information related to the safe use of the substances.

  Class 4: Herbs for which insufficient data are available for classification.

Popular potions

  "Based on a 1998 research study conducted by The International Research Institute, some of the current top herbal preparations used in food are: ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort, ginseng, green tea, kava kava and echinacea," says Mindy Green, director of education, Herb Research Foundation, Boulder, CO.

  Sometimes termed the "smart powder," ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) will not, in fact, help you get any smarter or increase memory if your brain functions normally. A class 1 herb, ginkgo improves blood circulation to the central nervous system and stimulates oxygen flow to the brain. For older adults with loss of cognitive functions, or those suffering from Alzheimer's disease, this herb is worth a try. Studies are being conducted on its effects on cardiovascular disease.

  St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), from which the compound hypericin was first isolated in 1942, appears to help those with mild to moderate depression by increasing seratonin levels. Research has not yet been conducted on treating severe depression.

  Ginsengs, genus Panax, are class 2d herbs found in many forms. Asian ginseng, also known as Korean or Chinese ginseng, is the most researched and used species. Less popular varieties in the United States include American and san qui. Siberian ginseng is not actually a ginseng, since it comes from the eleuthero plant, a close relative of ginseng.

  Ginseng is not touted to treat specific diseases, but rather to support health and enhance the immune system. Also known as an "adaptogen," ginseng appears to help fight fatigue and increase stamina and concentration. Researchers believe substances known as ginsenosides stimulate the immune system, improve efficiency of the body's metabolism, and protect cells by acting as antioxidants.

  Laboratory research has confirmed that catechin gallates - the polyphenols found in green tea (Camilla sinensis), a class 2d herb - have cancer-fighting capabilities. Studies indicate that epigallocatechin gallate is the most potent among the catechin gallates, and may help protect against cancers of the breast, mouth, lung and pancreas by preventing DNA damage. Green tea also contains antioxidant flavonoids that play a role in preventing coronary heart disease by inhibiting oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and reducing platelet aggregation.

  The South Pacific, the very mention of which conjures up images of tranquility, is home to the herbal tranquilizer kava kava (Piper methysticum). Kava kava, a class 2d herb, is used to treat anxiety, stress and insomnia. In fact, it is said to create alert relaxation, followed by restful sleep. Substances known as kavalactones seem to be the primary active ingredients, acting in the brain on emotions and moods. This herb appears to relax the body and enhance mental clarity.

  Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), a class 1 herb and natural antibiotic, is thought to stimulate the immune system against pathogenic infection by stimulating phagocytosis. The purple coneflower, as it is commonly known, increases the ability of white blood cells to surround and destroy bacterial and viral invaders. This herb is contraindicated for those suffering from autoimmune diseases such as AIDS and multiple sclerosis.

Laws and potency

  In the United States, herbal products are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. Herbs can also be sold as foods, and are often classified as flavorings. When sold as dietary supplements, labels usually denote claims as to the herb's effect on the structure or function on the human body, but require this FDA disclaimer: "This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."

  Herbs can also be regulated as approved, over-the-counter medications. Approved herbs can carry more specific therapeutic claims. Herbs can also be regulated via the Investigational New Drug/New Drug Application process, which is administered by the FDA.

  Some believe that the body absorbs liquid herb extracts faster and more easily than powdered herbs. According to David Wilson, president and CEO of Folexco/East Earth Herb, Montgomeryville, PA, "the potency of the herbs is based on what the consumer wants. Both liquid and powder formulations are effective; it depends on the medium you are using. However, higher levels of the herb will become quite costly."

  "Herbal food products are still a food trend. It is important to stress to the consumer that if using herbs as a therapeutic agent, they need to take them in a therapeutic dose. Packages should provide the quantity provided by the herb so the consumer knows what they are consuming," advises Green.

  Andrea D. Platzman is a registered dietitian who is a consultant to the food industry, and regularly writes for nutrition publications. She earned a master's degree in nutrition from New York University, and has a culinary and business background.

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