Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine Vol 4 (S Z) 2nd ed pdf

  The GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA of

  

A lTERNATIVE

M EDICINE

SECOND EDITION

  The GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA of

  A lternative

  M EDICINE

SECOND EDITION

J A C Q U E L I N E L . L O N G E , P R O J E C T E D I T O R

  

V O L U M E

S-Z

  

ORGANIZATIONS

GLOSSARY

GENERAL INDEX

  

4

  

The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Second Edition

Project Editor Jacqueline L. Longe Editorial Deirdre S. Blanchfield, Laurie Fundukian, Erin Watts Editorial Support Services Andrea Lopeman

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ISBN 0-7876-7424-9(set)

0-7876-7425-7 (Vol. 1)

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  The Gale encyclopedia of alternative medicine / Jacqueline L. Longe, project editor.-- 2nd ed. p. ; cm. Includes bibliographical references and index.

  

ISBN 0-7876-7424-9 (set hardcover : alk. paper) -- ISBN 0-7876-7425-7 (v. 1 : alk.

paper) -- ISBN 0-7876-7426-5 (v. 2 : alk. paper) -- ISBN 0-7876-7427-3 (v. 3 : alk. paper) -- ISBN 0-7876-7428-1 (v. 4 : alk. paper) 1. Alternative medicine--Encyclopedias.

  [DNLM: 1. Complementary Therapies--Encyclopedias--English. 2. Internal Medicine-- Encyclopedias--English. WB 13 G1507 2005] I. Title: Encyclopedia of alternative medicine. II. Longe, Jacqueline L.

  R733.G34 2005 615.5'03--dc22 2004022502

  CONTENTS List of Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii About the Encyclopedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii Advisory Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix Contributors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxi Entries Volume 1: A-C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Volume 2: D-K. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 523 Volume 3: L-R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1029 Volume 4: S-Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1523 Organizations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2199 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2225 General Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2293

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

LIST OF ENTRIES

  A

  Abscess Acidophilus Acne Aconite Acupressure Acupuncture Ademetionine Adie’s pupil African pygeum Agastache Aging AIDS Alcoholism Alexander technique Alfalfa Alisma Allergies Allium cepa Aloe Alpha-hydroxy Alzheimer’s disease Amino acids Andrographis Androstenedione Anemarrhena Anemia Angelica root Angina Anise Ankylosing spondylitis Anorexia nervosa Anthroposophical medicine Antioxidants Anxiety

  Bates method Bayberry Bedsores Bedwetting Bee pollen Behavioral optometry Behavioral therapy Belladonna Beta-hydroxy Beta-methylbutyric acid Beta carotene Betaine hydrochloride Bhakti yoga Bilberry Binge eating disorder Biofeedback Bioflavonoids Biota Biotin Bipolar disorder Bird flu Bites and stings Bitter melon Bitters Black cohosh Black currant seed oil Black haw Black walnut Black cumin seed extract Bladder cancer Bladder infection Blessed thistle Blisters Blood poisoning Blood clots Bloodroot

  Apis Apitherapy Appendicitis Applied kinesiology Apricot seed Arginine Arnica Aromatherapy Arrowroot Arsenicum album Art therapy Ashwaganda Asthma Astigmatism Aston-Patterning Astragalus Atherosclerosis Athlete’s foot Atkins diet Atractylodes (white) Attention-deficit hyperactivity dis- order Aucklandia Auditory integration training Aura therapy Auriculotherapy Autism Ayurvedic medicine

  B

  Bad breath Balm of Gilead Barberry Barley grass

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

  Blue cohosh Body odor Boils Bone spurs Bonemeal Boneset Borage oil Boron Boswellia Botanical medicine Breast cancer Breastfeeding problems Breath therapy Breema Brewer’s yeast Bromelain Bronchitis Bruises Bruxism Bryonia Buchu Buckthorn Bugleweed Bulimia nervosa Bunions Burdock root Burns Bursitis Butcher’s broom Buteyko

  C

  Cadmium poisoning Caffeine Calcarea carbonica Calcium Calendula Cancer Cancer treatments, biological Candidiasis Canker sores Cantharis Carnitine Carotenoids Carpal tunnel syndrome

  Coenzyme Q

  10 Coix

  Cold sores Coleus Colic Colloidal silver Colonic irrigation Color therapy Colorectal cancer Colostrum Coltsfoot Comfrey Common cold Conjunctivitis Constipation Contact dermatitis Copper Coptis Cordyceps Corns and calluses Cornsilk Cornus Corydalis Cotton root bark Cough Cradle cap Cramp bark Cranberry Craniosacral therapy Creatine Crohn’s disease Croup Crystal healing Cupping Curanderismo Cuscuta Cuts and scratches Cymatic therapy Cyperus

  D

  Damiana Dance therapy Dandelion Dandruff

  Cartilage supplements Castor oil Cat’s claw Cataracts Catnip Cayce systems Cayenne Celiac disease Cell therapy Cell salt therapy Cellulite Cerebral vascular insufficiency Cerebral palsy Cervical dysplasia Chakra balancing Chamomile Charcoal, activated Chasteberry tree Chelated minerals Chelation therapy Chemical poisoning Cherry bark Chickenpox Chickweed Chicory Childbirth Childhood nutrition Chills Chinese massage Chinese system of food cures Chinese thoroughwax Chinese yam Chinese foxglove root Chiropractic Chlamydia Chlorella Cholesterol Chondroitin Christian Science healing Chromium Chronic fatigue syndrome Chrysanthemum flower Chymotrypsin Cicada Cinnamon bark Cirrhosis Cnidium seeds Codonopsis root

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries Deglycyrrhizanated licorice Dementia Depression Dermatitis Detoxification Devil’s claw DHEA Diabetes mellitus Diamond diet Diaper rash Diarrhea Diathermy Diets Digestive enzymes Diverticulitis Dizziness Dolomite Dong quai Dry mouth Dyslexia Dysmenorrhea

  E

  Ear infection Earache Echinacea Eczema Edema Elder Electroacupuncture Elimination diet Emphysema Endometriosis Energy medicine Environmental therapy Enzyme therapy Ephedra Epididymitis Epilepsy Epimedium Essential fatty acids Essential oils Essiac tea Eucalyptus Eucommia bark

  Gelsemium Genital herpes Genital warts Gentiana Geriatric massage Gerson therapy Ginger Ginkgo biloba Ginseng, American Ginseng, Korean Ginseng, Siberian Glaucoma Glucosamine Glutamine Glutathione Goldenrod Goldenseal Gonorrhea Gotu kola Gout Grains-of-paradise fruit Grape skin Grape seed extract Grapefruit seed extract Green tea Guggul Guided imagery Gulf War syndrome Gum disease Gymnema

  H

  Hair loss Hangover Hatha yoga Hawthorn Hay fever Headache Hearing loss Heart disease Heart attack Heartburn Heavy metal poisoning Heel spurs Hellerwork

  Evening primrose oil Evodia fruit Exercise Eyebright

  F

  Facial massage Fasting Fatigue Feldenkrais Feng shui Fennel Fenugreek Ferrum phosphoricum Fever Feverfew Fibrocystic breast disease Fibromyalgia Fish oil 5-HTP Flaxseed Flower remedies Fo ti Folic acid Food poisoning Foxglove Fractures French green clay Fritillaria Frostbite and frostnip Fungal infections

  G

  Gallstones Gamma-linoleic acid Gangrene Ganoderma Gardenia Garlic Gas Gastritis Gastrodia Gastroenteritis

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries

  Hemorrhoids Hepar sulphuris Hepatitis Herbalism, Western Herbalism, traditional Chinese Herniated disk Hiatal hernia Hibiscus Hiccups High sensitivity C reactive protein test High-fiber diet Hives Hodgkin’s disease Holistic dentistry Holistic medicine Homeopathy Homeopathy, acute prescribing Homeopathy, constitutional pre- scribing Honeysuckle Hops Horehound Horse chestnut Horsetail Hot flashes Humor therapy Huna Hydrotherapy Hypercortisolemia Hyperopia Hyperparathyroidism Hypertension Hyperthermia Hyperthyroidism Hypnotherapy Hypoglycemia Hypothyroidism Hyssop

  I Iceland moss

  Ignatia Immuno-augmentation therapy Impetigo Impotence Indigestion

  L

  Labyrinth walking Lachesis Lacto-ovo vegetarianism Laryngitis Lavender Lazy eye Lead poisoning Learning disorders Lecithin Ledum Lemon balm Lemongrass Leukemia Lice infestation Licorice Light therapy Linoleic acid Livingston-Wheeler therapy Lobelia Lomatium Lomilomi Lou Gehrig’s disease Low back pain Lung cancer Lutein Lycium fruit Lycopene Lycopodium Lyme disease Lymphatic drainage Lysimachia Lysine

  M

  Macrobiotic diet Macular degeneration Magnesium Magnetic therapy Magnolia Maitake Malaria Malignant lymphoma Manganese

  Infant massage Infections Infertility Inflammatory bowel disease Influenza Ingrown nail Insomnia Insulin resistance Iodine Ipecac Ipriflavone Iridology Iron Irritable bowel syndrome Ischemia Itching

  J

  Jaundice Jet lag Jock itch Jojoba oil Journal therapy Juice therapies Juniper Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

  K

  Kali bichromicum Kampo medicine Kaposi’s sarcoma Kava kava Kegel exercises Kelley-Gonzalez diet Kelp Kidney stones Kidney infections Kirlian photography Knee pain Kneipp wellness Kola nut Kombucha Kudzu

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries Marijuana Marsh mallow Martial arts Massage therapy McDougall diet Measles Meditation Mediterranean diet Medium-chain triglycerides Melatonin Memory loss Meniere’s disease Meningitis Menopause Menstruation Mercurius vivus Mesoglycan Metabolic therapies Methionine Mexican yam Migraine headache Milk thistle Mind/Body medicine Mistletoe Mononucleosis Morning sickness Motherwort Motion sickness Movement therapy Moxibustion MSM Mugwort leaf Mullein Multiple chemical sensitivity Multiple sclerosis Mumps Muscle spasms and cramps Music therapy Myopia Myotherapy Myrrh

  N

  Narcolepsy Native American medicine

  Panchakarma Pancreatitis Panic disorder Pantothenic acid Parasitic infections Parkinson’s disease Parsley Passionflower Past-life therapy Pau d’arco Pelvic inflammatory disease Pennyroyal Peppermint Peripheral neuropathy Periwinkle Pet therapy Phlebitis Phobias Phosphorus Pilates Pinched nerve Pine bark extract Pinellia Pityriasis rosea Placebo effect Plantain Pleurisy Pneumonia Polarity therapy Postpartum depression Post-traumatic stress disorder Potassium Pranic healing Prayer and spirituality Pregnancy Pregnancy massage Premenstrual syndrome Prickly heat Prickly pear cactus Pritikin diet Probiotics Prolotherapy Prostate enlargement Prostate cancer Psoriasis Psychoneuroimmunology Psychophysiology Psychosomatic medicine

  Natrum muriaticum Natural hygiene diet Natural hormone replacement ther- apy Naturopathic medicine Nausea Neck pain Neem Nettle Neural therapy Neuralgia Neurolinguistic programming Niacin Night blindness Noni Nosebleeds Notoginseng root Nutmeg Nutrition Nux vomica

  O

  Oak Obesity Obsessive-compulsive disorder Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-6 fatty acids Ophiopogon Oregano essential oil Ornish diet Ortho-bionomy Orthomolecular medicine Osha Osteoarthritis Osteopathy Osteoporosis Ovarian cancer Ovarian cysts Oxygen/Ozone therapy

  P

  Pain Paleolithic diet

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries

  Psychotherapy Psyllium Pulsatilla Pulse diagnosis Pyridoxine

  Q

  Qigong Quan yin

  R

  Rabies Radiation injuries Radiesthesia Radionics Rashes Raspberry Raynaud’s syndrome Red cedar Red clover Red yeast rice extract Reflexology Reiki Reishi mushroom Relaxation Rescue Remedy Restless leg syndrome Retinal detachment Retinopathy Rheumatic fever Rheumatoid arthritis Rhinitis Rhubarb root Rhus toxicodendron Riboflavin Rolfing Rosacea Rose hip Rosemary Rosen method Royal jelly Rubella Rubenfeld synergy

  Sneezing Snoring Sodium Somatics Sore throat Sound therapy South Beach diet Soy protein Spearmint Spinal manipulative therapy Spirulina Sports massage Sprains and strains Squawvine St. John’s wort Staphylococcal infections Sties Stomachaches Stone massage Strep throat Stress Stroke Substance abuse and dependence Sulfur Suma Sun’s soup Sunburn Swedish massage Sweet clover Swimmer’s ear Syntonic optometry Syphilis Systemic lupus erythematoses

  T

  T’ai chi Tangerine peel Tea tree oil Teenage nutrition Teething problems Temporomandibular joint syn- drome Tendinitis Tennis elbow Tetanus Thai massage

  Russian massage Ruta

  S

  Safflower flower Saffron Sage Saliva sample testing Sargassum seaweed Sassafras Saw palmetto Scabies Scallion Scarlet fever Schisandra Schizophrenia Sciatica Scoliosis Seasonal affective disorder Selenium Senior nutrition Senna Sensory deprivation Sensory integration disorder Sepia Sesame oil Sexual dysfunction Shamanism Sheep sorrel Shiatsu Shiitake mushroom Shin splints Shingles Shintaido Sick building syndrome Sickle cell anemia Silica Sinus infection Sjögren’s syndrome Skin cancer Skullcap Sleep apnea Sleep disorders Slippery elm Smoking

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries Therapeutic touch Thiamine Thuja Thunder God vine Thyme Tibetan medicine Tinnitus Tonsillitis Toothache Tourette syndrome Toxic shock syndrome Traditional African medicine Traditional Chinese medicine Trager psychophysical integration Tremors Trepanation Trichomoniasis Trigger point therapy Triphala Tuberculosis Turmeric

  U

  Ulcers, digestive Unani-tibbi Urinary incontinence Urine therapy Usnea

  Wheezing White peony root White willow Whooping cough Wigmore diet Wild cherry Wild oat Wild yam Wintergreen Witch hazel Worms Wormwood Wounds

  Y

  Yarrow Yeast infection Yellow dock Yerba santa Yoga Yohimbe Yucca

  Z

  Zinc Zone diet

  Uterine cancer Uterine fibroids Uva ursi

  V Vaginitis

  Valerian Vanadium Varicose veins Veganism Vegetarianism Venom immunotherapy Vitamin A Vitamin B complex Vitamin B

12 Vitamin C

  Vitamin D Vitamin E Vitamin K Vomiting

  W

  Warts Wasabi Wheat grass therapy Wheat germ

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 List of Entries

  The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine is a medical reference product designed to inform and edu- cate readers about a wide variety of complementary ther- apies and herbal remedies and treatments for prevalent conditions and diseases. Thomson Gale believes the product to be comprehensive, but not necessarily defini- tive. It is intended to supplement, not replace, consulta- tion with a physician or other healthcare practitioner. While Thomson Gale has made substantial efforts to pro- vide information that is accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date, Thomson Gale makes no representations or warranties of any kind, including without limitation, warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, comprehen- siveness, or timeliness of the information contained in this product. Readers should be aware that the universe of complementary medical knowledge is constantly growing and changing, and that differences of medical opinion exist among authorities. They are also advised to seek professional diagnosis and treatment for any med- ical condition, and to discuss information obtained from this book with their healthcare provider.

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

PLEASE READ – IMPORTANT INFORMATION

ABOUT THE ENCYCLOPEDIA

• Definition • Description • Causes & symptoms
• Diagnosis • Treatment • Allopathic treatment
• Expected results
• Prevention • Resources • Key terms

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

  been designed with ready reference in mind:

  How to Use this Book The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine has

  The essays were compiled by experienced medical writers, including alternative healthcare practitioners and educators, pharmacists, nurses, and other complementary healthcare professionals. GEAM medical advisors re- viewed over 95% of the completed essays to insure that they are appropriate, up-to-date, and medically accurate.

  About the Contributors

  A preliminary list of therapies, herbs, remedies, dis- eases, and conditions was compiled from a wide variety of sources, including professional medical guides and textbooks, as well as consumer guides and encyclope- dias. The advisory board, made up of three medical and alternative healthcare experts, evaluated the topics and made suggestions for inclusion. Final selection of topics to include was made by the medical advisors in conjunc- tion with Thomson Gale editors.

  Inclusion criteria

  Diseases/conditions

  Therapies

  Herbs/remedies

  prominent figures are highlighted as sidebar biographies that accompany the therapy entries. Articles follow a standardized format that provides information at a glance. Rubrics include:

  Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. Many

  Over 800 full-length articles are included in The

  Scope

  and is more comprehensive than single-volume family medical guides.

  Medicine presents authoritative, balanced information

  formation that covers complementary therapies, herbs and remedies, and common medical diseases and condi- tions. It avoids medical jargon, making it easier for the layperson to use. The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative

  The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine (GEAM) is a one-stop source for alternative medical in-

• Origins • Benefits • Description • Preparations • Precautions • Side effects
• Research & general acceptance
• Resources • Key terms
• General use
• Preparations • Precautions • Side effects
• Interactions • Resources • Key terms
• Straight alphabetical arrangement allows users to locate information quickly.
• Bold faced terms function as print hyperlinks that • An appendix of alternative medical organizations point the reader to related entries in the encyclo- is arranged by type of therapy and includes valu- pedia.

  able contact information.

  yclopedia

• A list of

  key terms is provided where appropriate • A comprehensive general index allows users to

  to define unfamiliar words or concepts used with- easily target detailed aspects of any topic, includ- in the context of the essay. Additional terms may ing Latin names. be found in the glossary.

  About the Enc Cross-references placed throughout the encyclo-

• pedia direct readers to where information on sub-

  Graphics

  The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine is

  jects without their own entries can be found. Syn- enhanced with over 450 images, including photos, ta- onyms are also cross-referenced. bles, and customized line drawings. Each volume con-

• A

  tains a color insert of 64 important herbs, remedies, and

  Resources section directs users to sources of further complementary medical information. supplements.

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

ADVISORY BOARD

  

An advisory board made up of prominent individuals from complementary medical

communities provided invaluable assistance in the formulation of this encyclopedia.

They defined the scope of coverage and reviewed individual entries for accuracy and

accessibility. We would therefore like to express our appreciation to them:

  Mirka Knaster, PhD author, editor, consultant in Eastern and Western body-mind disciplines and spiritual traditions Oakland, CA Lisa Meserole, MS, ND President, Botanical Medicine Academy One Sky Medicine Clinic Seattle, WA Katherine E. Nelson, ND Naturopathic Physician Naples, FL Jamison Starbuck, JD, ND Naturopathic Family Physician Former president, American Association of Naturopathic Physicians Member, Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians Missoula, MT GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

  Margaret Alic, PhD Medical Writer Eastsound, WA Greg Annussek Medical Writer American Society of Journalists and Authors New York, NY Barbara Boughton Health and Medical Writer El Cerrito, CA Ruth Ann Prag Carter Freelance Writer Farmington Hills, MI Linda Chrisman Massage Therapist and Educator Medical Writer Oakland, CA Gloria Cooksey, CNE Medical Writer Sacramento, CA Amy Cooper, MA, MSI Medical Writer Vermillion, SD Sharon Crawford Writer, Editor, Researcher American Medical Writers Association Periodical Writers Association of Canada and the Editors’ Association of Canada Toronto, ONT Canada Sandra Bain Cushman Massage Therapist Alexander Technique Practitioner and Educator Charlottesville, VA Tish Davidson, MA Medical Writer Fremont, CA Lori DeMilto, MJ Medical Writer Sicklerville, NJ

  Doug Dupler, MA Medical Writer Boulder, CO Paula Ford-Martin, PhD Medical Writer Warwick, RI Rebecca J. Frey, PhD Medical Writer New Haven, CT Lisa Frick Medical Writer Columbia, MO Kathleen Goss Medical Writer Darwin, CA Elliot Greene, MA former president, American Massage Therapy Association Massage Therapist Silver Spring, MD Peter Gregutt Medical Writer Asheville, NC Clare Hanrahan Medical Writer Asheville, NC David Helwig Medical Writer London, ONT Canada Beth A. Kapes Medical Writer, Editor Bay Village, OH Katherine Kim Medical Writer Oakland, CA Erika Lenz Medical Writer Lafayette, CO Lorraine Lica, PhD Medical Writer San Diego, CA

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

CONTRIBUTORS

  Whitney Lowe, LMT Orthopedic Massage Education & Research Institute Massage Therapy Educator Bend, OR Mary McNulty Freelance Writer St.Charles, IL Katherine E. Nelson, ND Naturopathic physician Naples, FL Teresa Odle Medical Writer Ute Park, NM Jodi Ohlsen Read Medical Writer Carver, MN Carole Osborne-Sheets Massage Therapist and Educator Medical Writer Poway, CA Lee Ann Paradise Freelance Writer Lubbock, TX Patience Paradox Medical Writer Bainbridge Island, WA Belinda Rowland, PhD Medical Writer Voorheesville, NY Joan M. Schonbeck, RN Medical Writer Marlborough, MA Gabriele Schubert, MS Medical Writer San Diego, CA Kim Sharp, M Ln Medical Writer Houston, TX

  Kathy Shepard Stolley, PhD Medical Writer Virginia Beach, VA Judith Sims, MS Science Writer Logan, UT Patricia Skinner Medical Writer Amman, Jordan Genevieve Slomski, PhD Medical Writer New Britain, CT Jane E. Spear Medical Writer Canton, OH Liz Swain Medical Writer San Diego, CA Judith Turner, DVM Medical Writer Sandy, UT Samuel Uretsky, PharmD Medical Writer Wantagh, NY Ken R. Wells Science Writer Laguna Hills, CA Angela Woodward Science Writer Madison, WI Kathleen Wright, RN Medical Writer Delmar, DE Jennifer L. Wurges Medical Writer Rochester Hills, MI

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 Contributors Sacro-occipital technique see Craniosacral therapy

  SAD see Seasonal affective disorder Safflower flower Description

  measles. They also used it to induce sweating.

  More recently, safflower has been identified as the source of several flavonoids with strong antioxidative ac-

  that safflower flowers prevent coronary artery disease because they are a digestive bitter and assist in the diges- tion of oils. Infusions of safflower flowers are used to lower the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles dur- ing athletic competition. In addition, a compound has been isolated from safflower that stimulates the immune system in mice. Additional studies are ongoing to con- firm this effect.

  heart disease. The claim has also been made

  venting

  cholesterol levels, making it useful in pre-

  Modern scientific research shows that safflower oil lowers serum

  Safflower has other nonmedicinal uses. Its flowers produce a dye that in times past was used for dyeing silk yellow or red. Today, chemical dyes have largely re- placed safflower dye. The flowers were also dried and ground together with finely powdered talc to produce cosmetic rouge.

  Safflower seeds can be pressed to produce an edible oil. The unpurified form of this oil is used as a laxative or purgative to cleanse the bowels. Processed safflower oil does not have laxative properties. The processed oil is used extensively in cooking and for making margarine and salad dressings. The oil is also used in paints and varnishes, and is burned for lighting where electricity is unavailable.

  North Americans used safflower flower in the nineteenth century in much the same way as the Chinese—to bring on menstruation and to treat

  Safflower is an annual herb whose botanical name is Carthamus tinctorius. It is a member of the Asteraceae family. It has long, spiny leaves and yellow or reddish flowers on a stiff, upright stem. The seeds produce an ed- ible oil. Safflower grows to a height of about 3 ft (1 m) in poor, dry soils in full sun. The origins of this plant are not clear, although some herbalists suggest the basin of the Euphrates River. Today safflower grows wild in Iran, northwest India, and North Africa. It has also spread to the Far East and North America. Safflower is cultivated extensively both as a herb and as a food crop.

  wounds . Interestingly, on the other side of the world,

  plied externally, safflower flower is used to cleanse

  measles, fevers, and skin rashes. Ap-

  Safflower flowers are also used to treat such child- hood problems as

  gent taste. Chinese practitioners use safflower oil in tui na massage.

  blood clots. Safflower is said to have a warm nature and a pun-

  safflower flower is a blood regulator; that is, it invigo- rates and harmonizes the blood and dissolves

  General use Safflower flower has been used in traditional Chi- nese medicine for thousands of years. It is used to treat menstrual disorders. Safflower flower is an emmena- gogue, meaning that it is given to bring on menstrua- tion. Safflower is also used to treat menstrual pain, to firm up the uterus after childbirth, to ease stiffness and pain in the joints, and sometimes also to treat trauma to the abdomen. According to traditional Chinese usage,

  Other names for safflower include false saffron, dyer’s saffron, American saffron, bastard saffron, Mexi- can saffron, and zaffer. Despite these names, safflower is in no way related to true saffron, although it is some- times used to adulterate that spice because true saffron is very expensive and safflower is relatively cheap. In Chi- nese medicine, safflower flower is called hong hua; in India it is known as koosumbha.

  

S

GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

  er w KEY TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . er flo

  Antioxidant—An enzyme or other organic sub- w

  stance that is able to counteract the damaging ef- fects of oxidation in living tissue.

  Safflo Decoction—An extract of a plant’s flavor or

  essence made by boiling or simmering parts of the plant in water.

  Emmenagogue—A substance or medication that

  brings on a woman’s menstrual period. Safflower flowers have been used as an emmenagogue.

  Flavonoid—Any of a group of water-soluble plant Safflower plant. (© PlantaPhile, Germany. Reproduced by per-

  pigments that are thought to have antioxidative,

  mission.) anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.

  Quercetin—An important flavonoid found in saf- tivity. Flavonoids are water-soluble plant pigments that

  flower that has strong anti-inflammatory and an-

  help to lower inflammation as well as counteract the tioxidative activity. damaging effects of oxidation on body tissues.

  Resorption—The breakdown or dissolving of Quercetin, which is one of the flavonoids found in saf- bone tissue by biochemical processes in the body. flower, is a well-known antioxidant.

  As of 2002, several groups of Asian researchers are studying the effectiveness of traditional herbal medicines Precautions containing safflower extract in treating bone disease. Al- Because safflower flower brings on menstruation, it though these studies are still in their early stages, prelim- should not be used by pregnant women. Large doses can inary findings indicate that safflower extract inhibits cause spontaneous abortion. In addition, because safflower bone resorption and thus may be useful in treating dis- may prolong blood clotting time, it should not be given to eases involving bone loss. patients with peptic ulcers or hemorrhagic illnesses. Many other medicinal claims have been made for saf- flower that are less well documented by modern scientists.

  Side effects These include claims that it reduces pain; has antibacterial The unprocessed oil of safflower seed can cause se- action; reduces fever; reduces enlarged breasts; and can vere diarrhea. be used to purge the body of parasitic worms.

  Interactions Preparations Safflower flower is often used in conjunction with Harvesting safflower flowers requires some care. other Chinese herbs with no reported interactions. As of The flowers are picked just as they begin to wilt and can 2002, there are no reported interactions of safflower ex- be used fresh or dried. If they are to be dried, they must tract or oil with standard pharmaceuticals. Its use in dis- be kept away from sunlight during the drying process or solving clots, however, suggests that it should not be they will lose their distinctive reddish-yellow color. taken with allopathic medications given to thin the blood. Dried flowers are not normally kept more than one year.

  Resources Safflower flowers can be used alone or in formulas.

  They can be prepared as dried powder, tinctures, or de- BOOKS coctions. Used alone, a common daily dosage is 3 g of

  Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Lon- don, UK: Dorling Kindersley Publishers, 1996. decoction or 1 g of powder. A standard infusion of saf- Molony, David. Complete Guide to Chinese Herbal Medicine. flower flowers uses 4–8 oz of dried flowers. A common New York: Berkeley Books, 1998. Chinese formula that uses safflower flower is pseudogin-

  Reid, Daniel. Chinese Herbal Medicine. Boston, MA: Shamb- seng and dragon blood formula. This formula is used to hala, 1996. treat traumatic injuries such as sprains or fractures that are accompanied by pain and swelling. The role of the

  PERIODICALS safflower flower in this formula is to move congealed

  Hong, H. T., H. J. Kim, T. K. Lee, et al. “Inhibitory Effect of a blood and reduce pain. Korean Traditional Medicine, Honghwain-Jahage (Water

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 to treating ATRA-sensitive cancers in women of child- bearing age.

  Additional human studies have indicated that saf- fron has powerful antioxidant properties; that is, it helps to protect living tissues from free radicals and other harmful effects of oxidation.

  ORGANIZATIONS American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM). 909 22nd Street, Sacramento, CA 95816, (916) 451-6950

  Preliminary studies have shown that saffron may also be a useful tool in fighting cancer. According to a 1999 study, use of the herb slowed tumor growth and extended lifespan in female rats. A 2002 study done at Indiana University indicates that saffron may not only be effective in treating certain types of can- cer, but significantly less likely to cause birth defects if given to pregnant women than all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), the compound most often given to treat these cancers. Saffron may thus be a preferable alternative

  is also used as an emmenagogue, to stimulate and pro- mote menstrual flow in women.

  colic and stomach discomfort, and minimize gas. It

  In addition to its culinary uses, saffron is prescribed as a herbal remedy to stimulate the digestive system, ease

  General use

  Saffron is a herbal preparation harvested from the stigma of the Crocus sativus flower. It is dark orange and threadlike in appearance, with a spicy flavor and pungent odor. The plant is grown in India, Spain, France, Italy, the Middle East, and the eastern Mediterranean region.

  Saffron Description

  Tish Davidson Rebecca J. Frey, PhD

  OTHER Herbal Dave. http://www.herbaldave.com.

  <http://www.aaom.org>. Centre for International Ethnomedicinal Education and Re- search (CIEER). <www.cieer.org>.

  Yuk, T. H., J. H. Kang, S. R. Lee, et al. “Inhibitory Effect of Carthamus tinctorius L. Seed Extracts on Bone Resorp- tion Mediated by Tyrosine Kinase, COX-2 (Cyclooxyge- nase) and PG (Prostaglandin) E2.” American Journal of Chinese Medicine 30 (2002): 95-108.

  Two chemical components of saffron extract, cro- cetin and crocin, reportedly improved memory and learn- ing skills in learning-impaired rats in a Japanese study published in early 2000. These properties indicate that saffron extract may be a useful treatment for neurodegen- erative disorders and related memory impairment.

  Lee, J. Y., E. J. Chang, H. J. Kim, et al. “Antioxidative Flavonoids from Leaves of Carthamus tinctorius.” Archives of Pharmacal Research 25 (June 2002): 313- 319.

  Extracts of Carthamus tinctorius L. seed and Hominis Placenta) on Interleukin-1-Mediated Bone Resorption.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology 79 (February 2002): 143- 148.

  Saffron should always be obtained from a reputable source that observes stringent quality control procedures and industry-accepted good manufacturing practices. Be-

  Because saffron can stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women should never take the herb for medici- nal purposes.

  Precautions

  Saffron should be stored in an airtight container in a cool location away from bright light to maintain its po- tency. The herb can be frozen. Properly stored saffron can be used for up to two years. A good measure of the herb’s freshness and potency is its odor. If the saffron does not have a noticeable pungent smell, it is probably past its peak.

  For medicinal purposes, saffron can be taken by mouth in powder, tincture, or liquid form. To make a liq- uid saffron decoction, mix 6–10 stigmas or strands of saffron in one cup of cold water, bring the mixture to a boil, and then let it simmer. The saffron is then strained out of the decoction, which can be drunk either hot or cold. An average recommended dose of saffron decoc- tion is 1/2–1 cup daily.

  Because saffron is frequently used as a spice to fla- vor a variety of dishes, particularly in Mediterranean recipes, it can often be purchased by mail order and at gourmet food stores as well as at health food stores. The herb is usually sold in either powdered form or in its original threadlike stigma form. Saffron can cost as much to $10.00 per gram.

  Saffron is harvested by drying the orange stigma of the Crocus sativus flower over fire. Over 200,000 crocus stigmas must be harvested to produce one pound of saf- fron. This volume makes the herb extremely expensive, and it is often cut with other substances of a similar color (e.g., marigold) to keep the price down.

  Preparations

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 Saffr on

  on Saffr Saffron. (© PlantaPhile, Germany. Reproduced by permission.)

  cause of its high cost, saffron is often found in adulterated Saffron can cause severe illness, kidney damage, form, so package labeling should be checked carefully for central nervous system paralysis, and possible death at the type and quality of additional ingredients. dosages of 12 g and higher. The symptoms of saffron poisoning include:

  Botanical supplements are regulated by the FDA;

• vomiting however, they are currently not required to undergo any ap- proval process before reaching the consumer market, and
• uterine bleeding are classified as nutritional supplements rather than drugs.
• intestinal cramping Legislation known as the Dietary Supplement Health and
• bloody diarrhea Education Act (DSHEA) was passed in 1994 in an effort to standardize the manufacture, labeling, composition, and
• skin hemorrhaging safety of botanicals and supplements. In January 2000, the
• dizziness FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition • stupor

  (CFSAN) announced a ten-year plan for establishing and

• paralysis implementing these regulations by the year 2010.

  If any of these symptoms occur, the user discontinue the use of saffron immediately and seek emergency med-

  Side effects ical assistance.

  Although there are no known side effects or health hazards associated with recommended dosages of saffron

  Interactions

  preparations in healthy individuals, people with chronic medical conditions should consult with their healthcare As of 2002, there are no reported negative interac- professional before taking the herb. In addition, pregnant tions between saffron and other medications and herbs, women should never take saffron, as the herb stimulates although certain drugs with the same therapeutic proper- uterine contractions and may cause miscarriage. ties as saffron may enhance the effect of the herb.

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2

  Sage Description

  United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740. (888) SAFEFOOD. <www.cfsan.fda.gov>.

  cell metabolism that can cause tissue and cell damage like that which occurs in aging and with such disease processes as cancer.

  Emmenagogue—A medication or substance given to bring on a woman’s menstrual period. Free radicals—Reactive molecules created during

  a herb with cold water, bringing the mixture to a boil, and letting it simmer to evaporate the excess water. Decoctions are usually chosen over infu- sion when the botanical or herb in question is a root, seed, or berry.

  Decoction—A herbal extract produced by mixing

  in saffron that is being studied for its anticancer effectiveness.

  Antioxidants—Enzymes that bind with free radi- cals to neutralize their harmful effects. Crocetin—A reddish-yellow plant pigment found

  GALE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2 Sage KEY TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  Paula Ford-Martin Rebecca J. Frey, PhD

  Building 31, Room 1B25. 31 Center Drive, MSC 2086. Bethesda, MD 20892-2086. (301) 435-2920. Fax: (301) 480-1845. http://odp.od.nih.gov/ods/

  Sage (Salvia officinalis) is native to the Mediter- ranean and naturalized throughout Europe and North America. Known as garden sage, meadow sage, and true sage, this pungent herb is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. The genus name is taken from the Latin

  ORGANIZATIONS Office of Dietary Supplements. National Institutes of Health.

  Chemical Toxicology 40 (July 2002): 959-964.

  PERIODICALS Martin, G., E. Goh, and A. W. Neff. “Evaluation of the Devel- opmental Toxicity of Crocetin on Xenopus.” Food and

  Resources BOOKS Hoffman, David. The Complete Illustrated Herbal. New York: Barnes & Noble Books, 1999. Medical Economics Corporation. The PDR for Herbal Medi- cines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Corporation, 1998.

  Sage is a celebrated herb long valued for its many uses in medicine, magic, and meal preparation. Poets, shamans, herbalists, cooks, emperors, and common folk have touted its virtues for thousands of years. The Romans revered the herb as a sacred plant, and the Egyptians used it to treat the plague. Nicholas Culpeper, the seventeenth- century herbalist and astrologer, believed sage was under the dominion of Jupiter. Folk belief placed the herb under the influence of Venus, and sage was traditionally used to aid conception. One folk tradition encouraged eating a bit of sage each day during the month of May to assure im- mortality. Although it failed to live up to this promise, sage was traditionally planted on graves.

  General use

  Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, grow- ing wild in some areas. It is a hardy evergreen shrub with a deep taproot and an erect root stalk that produces woody, square, slightly downy, branching stems that may reach a height of 4 ft (1.2 m). This familiar garden perennial has long, light-green leaf stalks that bear simple opposite lance- or oval-shaped leaves. The strong and pliable leaves are veined, with a velvet-like somewhat crinkled texture and may grow to 2 in (5.1 cm) long in some varieties. Leaf margins resemble a fine embroidery finish with rounded minutely toothed edges. They are a gray-green on the top and lighter on the underside. The entire plant is strongly aromatic, with a familiar pungency. Fresh leaves are bitter to the taste. Sage blossoms in the middle of summer with small white, blue, or purple flowers.