Rose Hip for Osteoarthritis

A 2005 study found that 5g of rose hip powder daily significantly improved symptoms of hip or knee osteoarthritis compared to placebo over 3 months. Studies have shown that rose hip may improve joint pain and mobility. The longest trial duration was 4 months. Rose hip is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. Rose hip may cause digestive or other side effects.

Winther K, Apel K, Thamsborg G. A powder made from seeds and shells of a rose-hip subspecies (Rosa canina) reduces symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Scand J Rheumatol. 2005 Jul-Aug;34(4):302-8. doi: 10.1080/03009740510018624. PMID: 16195164.

Warholm O, Skaar S, Hedman E, Mølmen HM, Eik L. The Effects of a Standardized Herbal Remedy Made from a Subtype of Rosa canina in Patients with Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2003 Jan;64(1):21-31. doi: 10.1016/S0011-393X(03)00004-3. PMID: 24944354; PMCID: PMC4053021.

Rein E, Kharazmi A, Winther K. A herbal remedy, Hyben Vital (stand. powder of a subspecies of Rosa canina fruits), reduces pain and improves general wellbeing in patients with osteoarthritis--a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial. Phytomedicine. 2004 Jul;11(5):383-91. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2004.01.001. PMID: 15330493.

Christensen R, Bartels EM, Altman RD, Astrup A, Bliddal H. Does the hip powder of Rosa canina (rosehip) reduce pain in osteoarthritis patients?--a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2008 Sep;16(9):965-72. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2008.03.001. Epub 2008 Apr 14. PMID: 18407528.

Gruenwald J, Uebelhack R, Moré MI. Rosa canina - Rose hip pharmacological ingredients and molecular mechanics counteracting osteoarthritis - A systematic review. Phytomedicine. 2019 Jul;60:152958. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152958. Epub 2019 May 12. PMID: 31138475.

Astragalus for Knee Pain

A 2025 study found that 480mg of astragalus root extract daily significantly improved functional knee joint pain (not linked to acute injury or chronic disease) compared to placebo over 4 weeks. It took about 2 weeks with astragalus before improvements were seen. Astragalus is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. Astragalus may cause gastrointestinal or other side effects.

Lippi L, Turco A, Rudrappa GH, Moalli S, de Sire A, Invernizzi M. Astragalus membranaceus extract reduces functional knee joint pain: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Front Pain Res (Lausanne). 2025 Oct 29;6:1595957. doi: 10.3389/fpain.2025.1595957. PMID: 41235391; PMCID: PMC12605434.

Damask Rose for Postmenopausal Depression, Anxiety and Stress

A 2025 study found that 500mg of damask rose 2x daily significantly improved depression, anxiety and stress in postmenopausal women compared to placebo over 8 weeks. Damask rose contains phytoestrogens, which may mimic some effects of estrogen. Damask rose should not be used during pregnancy.

Gholinezhad Z, Karimi FZ, Rakhshandeh H, Mazloum SR. Effect of oral capsules of Rosa damascena mill extract on depression, anxiety and stress in menopausal women: A randomized controlled trial. Maturitas. 2025 Aug;199:108659. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2025.108659. Epub 2025 Jul 4. PMID: 40628163.

Ashwagandha Root for Weight Loss

A 2025 study found that 300mg of ashwagandha root extract 2x daily significantly reduced weight compared to placebo (mean -8.46kg vs -2.41kg) over 24 weeks in overweight women (BMI 25-39.9 kg/m2). Ashwagandha root significantly reduced serum cortisol levels compared to placebo. Ashwagandha may cause gastrointestinal issues among other side effects. Prolonged use at high doses can lead to liver injury.

Pakhale K, Pakhale R, Srivathsan M, Langade J, Langade D. Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract on stress and weight management in adults: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Med Life. 2025 Dec;18(12):1140-1154. doi: 10.25122/jml-2025-0147. PMID: 41635453; PMCID: PMC12863098.

“Office of Dietary Supplements - Ashwagandha: Is It Helpful for Stress, Anxiety, or Sleep?” Ods.od.nih.gov, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/.

Horseradish and Nasturtium for Chronic Urinary Tract Infections

A 2007 study found that horseradish and nasturtium significantly reduced recurrent urinary tract infections compared to placebo over 90 days in people with chronic recurrent urinary tract infections. Another 2023 study found this same herbal combination improved symptoms of bronchitis compared to placebo. Horseradish and nasturtium may cause digestive or other side effects.

Albrecht U, Goos KH, Schneider B. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of a herbal medicinal product containing Tropaeoli majoris herba (Nasturtium) and Armoraciae rusticanae radix (Horseradish) for the prophylactic treatment of patients with chronically recurrent lower urinary tract infections. Curr Med Res Opin. 2007 Oct;23(10):2415-22. doi: 10.1185/030079907X233089. PMID: 17723159.

Albrecht U, Stefenelli U, Stange R. A combination of Tropaeolum majus herb and Armoracia rusticana root for the treatment of acute bronchitis. Phytomedicine. 2023 Jul 25;116:154838. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154838. Epub 2023 Apr 26. PMID: 37167822.

Green Cardamom for Fatty Liver

A 2019 study found that 1g of green cardamom 3x daily with meals significantly improved the degree of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as determined by ultrasound compared to placebo over 3 months. Green cardamom also significantly improved LDL, HDL, triglycerides and insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR and fasting blood insulin). Another 2019 study found that green cardamom may improve 3 month average blood sugar (HgbA1c) in type 2 diabetics as well. Cardamom may cause digestive or other side effects.

Daneshi-Maskooni M, Keshavarz SA, Qorbani M, Mansouri S, Alavian SM, Badri-Fariman M, Jazayeri-Tehrani SA, Sotoudeh G. Green cardamom supplementation improves serum irisin, glucose indices, and lipid profiles in overweight or obese non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2019 Mar 12;19(1):59. doi: 10.1186/s12906-019-2465-0. PMID: 30871514; PMCID: PMC6419418.

Aghasi M, Koohdani F, Qorbani M, Nasli-Esfahani E, Ghazi-Zahedi S, Khoshamal H, Keshavarz A, Sotoudeh G. Beneficial effects of green cardamom on serum SIRT1, glycemic indices and triglyceride levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial. J Sci Food Agric. 2019 Jun;99(8):3933-3940. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.9617. Epub 2019 Mar 18. PMID: 30701554.

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone for Cognition

A 2022 study found that 21.5mg of Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) daily significantly improved cognition and memory compared to placebo over 12 weeks in health adults 40 to <80 years old. PQQ is an antioxidant found in fruits, vegetables and tea among other foods. The highest content of PQQ has been found in fermented soybeans (natto). PQQ may cause headaches or other side effects.

Shiojima Y, Takahashi M, Takahashi R, Moriyama H, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Akanuma M. Effect of Dietary Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt on Cognitive Function in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study. J Am Nutr Assoc. 2022 Nov-Dec;41(8):796-809. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2021.1962770. Epub 2021 Aug 20. Erratum in: J Am Nutr Assoc. 2022 Nov-Dec;41(8):855. doi: 10.1080/27697061.2022.2099711. PMID: 34415830.

Charrier D, Cerullo G, Carpenito R, Vindigni V, Bassetto F, Simoni L, Moro T, Paoli A. Metabolic and Biochemical Effects of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) on Inflammation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Potential Health Benefits in Obesity and Future Perspectives. Antioxidants (Basel). 2024 Aug 24;13(9):1027. doi: 10.3390/antiox13091027. PMID: 39334686; PMCID: PMC11429417.

Thymus Kotschyanus for Ulcerative Colitis

A study in 2022 found that 500mg of Thymus kotschyanus daily significantly improved symptoms of ulcerative colitis (measured by SCCAI) and calprotectin compared to placebo over 12 weeks. Both the treatment and placebo groups were taking mesalazine as well. Thymus kotschyanus may cause digestive or other side effects.

Vazirian F, Samadi S, Abbaspour M, Taleb A, Bagherhosseini H, Mozaffari HM, Mohammadpour AH, Emami SA. Evaluation of the efficacy of Thymus kotschyanus extract as an additive treatment in patients with ulcerative colitis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Inflammopharmacology. 2022 Dec;30(6):2145-2152. doi: 10.1007/s10787-022-00991-3. Epub 2022 Jun 20. PMID: 35723850.

Ceylon Cinnamon for Type 2 Diabetes

A 2025 study found that 500mg of Ceylon cinnamon daily significantly reduced fasting glucose, 3 month average glucose (HgbA1c), total cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) compared to placebo over 4 months. The 250mg daily dose of Ceylon cinnamon also significantly reduced fasting glucose and 3 month average glucose (HgbA1c) compared to placebo. Cinnamon may cause nausea, acid reflux or other side effects.

Ranasinghe P, Galappatthy P, Constantine GR, Jayawardena R, Weeratunga HD, Premakumara S, Katulanda P. Efficacy and Safety of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon) for diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2025 Dec;19(12):103357. doi: 10.1016/j.dsx.2025.103357. Epub 2025 Dec 12. PMID: 41412108.

Juniper Berries for Menstrual Cramps

A 2025 study found that 1500mg of juniper berry powder 3x daily after meals significantly improved pain from menstrual cramps similar to 250mg of mefenamic acid (NSAID) 3x daily from day 1 to day 3 of menses for 2 consecutive menstrual cycles. Juniper berries are thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Juniper berries may cause digestive or other side effects.

Banu T, Sultana A, Begum A, Sidra, Rahman K. Efficacy and safety of abhal (Juniperus communis L). on pain intensity, uterine artery doppler flow, and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2025 Feb 27;342:119388. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2025.119388. Epub 2025 Jan 20. PMID: 39842749.

Coenzyme Q10 for Chronic Heart Failure

A 2014 study found that 100mg of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) 3x daily significantly improved survival (42% reduction in all-cause mortality), reduced hospitalizations for heart failure, and improved heart failure classification compared to placebo over 2 years. Participants had chronic heart faillure in NYHA functional class III or IV. Another study found that selenium plus CoQ10 significantly reduced cardiovascular mortality compared to placebo (5.9% vs 12.6%) over 5.2 years. CoQ10 is thought to act as an antioxidant and increase energy production in the heart. CoQ10 may cause digestive or other side effects.

Mortensen SA, Rosenfeldt F, Kumar A, Dolliner P, Filipiak KJ, Pella D, Alehagen U, Steurer G, Littarru GP; Q-SYMBIO Study Investigators. The effect of coenzyme Q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure: results from Q-SYMBIO: a randomized double-blind trial. JACC Heart Fail. 2014 Dec;2(6):641-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jchf.2014.06.008. Epub 2014 Oct 1. PMID: 25282031.

Mortensen AL, Rosenfeldt F, Filipiak KJ. Effect of coenzyme Q10 in Europeans with chronic heart failure: A sub-group analysis of the Q-SYMBIO randomized double-blind trial. Cardiol J. 2019;26(2):147-156. doi: 10.5603/CJ.a2019.0022. Epub 2019 Mar 5. PMID: 30835327; PMCID: PMC8086660.

Alehagen U, Johansson P, Björnstedt M, Rosén A, Dahlström U. Cardiovascular mortality and N-terminal-proBNP reduced after combined selenium and coenzyme Q10 supplementation: a 5-year prospective randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial among elderly Swedish citizens. Int J Cardiol. 2013 Sep 1;167(5):1860-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.04.156. Epub 2012 May 23. PMID: 22626835.

Juniper Berries for Functional Dyspepsia

A 2025 study found that a 100mg extract of Juniper berries significantly improved symptoms of functional dyspepsia compared to placebo over 4 weeks. Symptoms of dyspepsia included abdominal discomfort, pressure, and fullness. Juniper berries have anti-inflammatory properties and may relieve abdominal cramping. Juniper berries may cause digestive or other side effects.

Albrecht U, Madisch A, Stefenelli U, Schablauer L, Felix L, Lonnemann N. Efficacy and safety of Roleca® juniper 100 mg in the treatment of functional dyspepsia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 2025 Dec;149:157542. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2025.157542. Epub 2025 Nov 11. PMID: 41240546.

Devil’s Claw for Back Pain

A 2001 study found that an extract from Devil’s claw root significantly improved moderate muscular back pain compared to placebo over 4 weeks. Other studies have shown that Devil’s claw root significantly reduced pain associated with knee and hip osteoarthritis similar to a medicine diacerhein. Devil’s claw root may cause digestive tract ulcers or have other side effects.

Göbel H, Heinze A, Ingwersen M, Niederberger U, Gerber D. Harpagophytum-Extrakt LI 174 (Teufelskralle) bei der Behandlung unspezifischer Rückenschmerzen - Effekte auf die sensible, motorische und vaskuläre Muskelreagibilität [Effects of Harpagophytum procumbens LI 174 (devil's claw) on sensory, motor und vascular muscle reagibility in the treatment of unspecific back pain]. Schmerz. 2001 Feb;15(1):10-8. German. doi: 10.1007/s004820170043. PMID: 11810324.

Chrubasik S, Junck H, Breitschwerdt H, Conradt C, Zappe H. Effectiveness of Harpagophytum extract WS 1531 in the treatment of exacerbation of low back pain: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Eur J Anaesthesiol. 1999 Feb;16(2):118-29. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2346.1999.00435.x. PMID: 10101629.

Leblan D, Chantre P, Fournié B. Harpagophytum procumbens in the treatment of knee and hip osteoarthritis. Four-month results of a prospective, multicenter, double-blind trial versus diacerhein. Joint Bone Spine. 2000;67(5):462-7. PMID: 11143915.

Chantre P, Cappelaere A, Leblan D, Guedon D, Vandermander J, Fournie B. Efficacy and tolerance of Harpagophytum procumbens versus diacerhein in treatment of osteoarthritis. Phytomedicine. 2000 Jun;7(3):177-83. doi: 10.1016/S0944-7113(00)80001-X. PMID: 11185727.

Couch Grass for Kidney Stones

A 2012 study found that 100mg of couch grass (Agropyrum repens) plus potassium citrate (24mEq) 2x daily was significantly more effective than potassium citrate (20mEq) 3x daily alone at reducing the number and size of kidney stones over 5 months in people with kidney stones who were candidates for potassium citrate therapy. Couch grass also significantly reduced urinary uric acid excretion. Treatment groups were not blinded in this trial. Couch grass is thought to be a mild diuretic and have anti-inflammatory properties. Some people may be allergic to couch grass or have other side effects.

Brardi S, Imperiali P, Cevenini G, Verdacchi T, Ponchietti R. Effects of the association of potassium citrate and agropyrum repens in renal stone treatment: results of a prospective randomized comparison with potassium citrate. Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2012 Jun;84(2):61-7. PMID: 22908773.

Topical Marshmallow for Candida

A 2023 study found that topical clotrimazole (an anti-fungal) plus an extract from marshmallow flowers was significantly more effective than topical clotrimazole alone at improving symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis after 7 days of treatment. Marshmallow is thought to have anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects. Topical marshmallow may cause skin irritation or other side effects.

Amini F, Namjooyan F, Zomorodian K, Zareshahrabadi Z, Shojaei K, Jaladat AM, Hashempur MH. The efficacy of complementary treatment with marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.) on vulvovaginal candidiasis: A randomized double-blinded controlled clinical trial. Explore (NY). 2023 Nov-Dec;19(6):813-819. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.04.005. Epub 2023 Apr 17. PMID: 37121836.

Topical Comfrey for Muscle & Joint Pains

A 2006 study found that topical comfrey root extract applied 3x daily was significantly more effective than placebo at improving pain and symptoms of knee osteoarthritis over 3 weeks. Studies have found that topical comfrey root extract may even be superior to topical diclofenac (Voltaren gel) for pain relief associated with ankle sprains. Another study found that topical comfrey was also effective for relieving acute back pain. Topical comfrey may cause skin irritation or other side effects.

Grube B, Grünwald J, Krug L, Staiger C. Efficacy of a comfrey root (Symphyti offic. radix) extract ointment in the treatment of patients with painful osteoarthritis of the knee: results of a double-blind, randomised, bicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 2007 Jan;14(1):2-10. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2006.11.006. Epub 2006 Dec 13. PMID: 17169543.

Predel HG, Giannetti B, Koll R, Bulitta M, Staiger C. Efficacy of a comfrey root extract ointment in comparison to a diclofenac gel in the treatment of ankle distortions: results of an observer-blind, randomized, multicenter study. Phytomedicine. 2005 Nov;12(10):707-14. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2005.06.001. PMID: 16323288.

D'Anchise R, Bulitta M, Giannetti B. Comfrey extract ointment in comparison to diclofenac gel in the treatment of acute unilateral ankle sprains (distortions). Arzneimittelforschung. 2007;57(11):712-6. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1296672. PMID: 18193693.

Giannetti BM, Staiger C, Bulitta M, Predel HG. Efficacy and safety of comfrey root extract ointment in the treatment of acute upper or lower back pain: results of a double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled, multicentre trial. Br J Sports Med. 2010 Jul;44(9):637-41. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2009.058677. Epub 2009 May 21. PMID: 19460762.

Celandine for Biliary Dyskinesia

A 1999 study found that an extract of greater celandine and turmeric root significantly improved right upper quadrant abdominal pain due to biliary dyskinesia compared to placebo over 3 weeks. Biliary dyskinesia is abnormal contraction of the gallbladder or biliary tract. Greater celandine may cause digestive or other side effects. Rarely greater celandine may cause liver injury, which could be serious.

Niederau C, Göpfert E. Die Wirkung von Schöllkraut- und Curcumawurzelstock-Extrakt auf Oberbauchbeschwerden infolge funktioneller Störungen des ableitenden Gallensystems. Ergebnisse einer plazebokontrollierten Doppelblindstudie [The effect of chelidonium- and turmeric root extract on upper abdominal pain due to functional disorders of the biliary system. Results from a placebo-controlled double-blind study]. Med Klin (Munich). 1999 Aug 15;94(8):425-30. German. doi: 10.1007/BF03044726. PMID: 10495621.

LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Greater Celandine. [Updated 2022 May 24]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548684/

Perilla for Memory

A 2026 study found that a 500mg extract of perilla leaves daily significantly improved memory compared to placebo over 12 weeks. Another study in 2023 showed perilla seed oil may inhibit bone resorption and improve bone density. In high doses, perilla may cause nausea, headaches or other side effects.

Baek HI, Joo JC, Kim SK, Park MH, Cho GH, Shen L, Park SJ. Efficacy and Safety of Standardized Ethanol Extract of Purple Perilla (Perilla frutescens Britton var. acuta Kudo) Leaves in Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients. 2026 Mar 18;18(6):960. doi: 10.3390/nu18060960. PMID: 41901135.

Matsuzaki K, Hossain S, Wakatsuki H, Tanabe Y, Ohno M, Kato S, Shido O, Hashimoto M. Perilla seed oil improves bone health by inhibiting bone resorption in healthy Japanese adults: A 12-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2023 Jun;37(6):2230-2241. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7728. Epub 2023 Jan 13. PMID: 36637040.

Butcher’s Broom for Chronic Venous Insufficiency

A 2002 study found that Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) significantly improved chronic venous insufficiency in women compared to placebo over 12 weeks. Improvement was determined by measured leg volume. Symptoms such as leg heaviness also significantly improved with Butcher’s broom. Butcher’s broom may cause gastrointestinal or other side effects.

Vanscheidt W, Jost V, Wolna P, Lücker PW, Müller A, Theurer C, Patz B, Grützner KI. Efficacy and safety of a Butcher's broom preparation (Ruscus aculeatus L. extract) compared to placebo in patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. Arzneimittelforschung. 2002;52(4):243-50. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1299887. PMID: 12040966.

Agrimony for Liver Health

A 2017 study found that 80mg of the aerial parts of Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) twice daily significantly improved elevated alanine transaminase (ALT) enzyme levels compared to placebo over 8 weeks (mean 68 to 52 in agrimony group vs 68 to 70 in placebo). Agrimony also significantly improved aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and triglyceride levels. Agrimony has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Agrimony may cause digestive or other side effects.

Cho YM, Kwon JE, Lee M, Lea Y, Jeon DY, Kim HJ, Kang SC. Agrimonia eupatoria L. (Agrimony) Extract Alters Liver Health in Subjects with Elevated Alanine Transaminase Levels: A Controlled, Randomized, and Double-Blind Trial. J Med Food. 2018 Mar;21(3):282-288. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2017.4054. Epub 2018 Feb 27. PMID: 29486131.