Burdock Root for Diverticulitis

A 2019 study found that people who drank 1.5g of Japanese burdock tea [Ajikan, Co., Ltd., Hiroshima, Japan] three times daily had a significant reduction in recurrent colonic diverticulitis vs control over 5 years. Recurrence rates of acute colonic diverticulitis were 10.6% in the burdock tea group and 31.8% in the control group. Burdock root is thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Some people may be allergic to burdock or have other side effects.

Mizuki A, Tatemichi M, Nakazawa A, Tsukada N, Nagata H, Kinoshita Y. Effects of Burdock tea on recurrence of colonic diverticulitis and diverticular bleeding: An open-labelled randomized clinical trial. Sci Rep. 2019 May 1;9(1):6793. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-43236-0. PMID: 31043657; PMCID: PMC6494891.

Chan YS, Cheng LN, Wu JH, Chan E, Kwan YW, Lee SM, Leung GP, Yu PH, Chan SW. A review of the pharmacological effects of Arctium lappa (burdock). Inflammopharmacology. 2011 Oct;19(5):245-54. doi: 10.1007/s10787-010-0062-4. Epub 2010 Oct 28. PMID: 20981575.

Yeast Probiotic for Antibiotic Associated Diarrhea

A 2015 systemic review with meta-analysis found that a yeast probiotic containing Saccharomyces boulardii was significantly more effective than placebo or control at preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea in both children and adults. Studies have also found that Saccharomyces boulardii is significantly more effective than placebo at reducing recurrent Clostridium difficile infection over 4 weeks. Saccharomyces boulardii may cause stomach upset among other side effects. It may not be suitable for people who are immunocompromised.

Szajewska H, Kołodziej M. Systematic review with meta-analysis: Saccharomyces boulardii in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2015 Oct;42(7):793-801. doi: 10.1111/apt.13344. Epub 2015 Jul 27. PMID: 26216624.

McFarland LV, Surawicz CM, Greenberg RN, Fekety R, Elmer GW, Moyer KA, Melcher SA, Bowen KE, Cox JL, Noorani Z, et al. A randomized placebo-controlled trial of Saccharomyces boulardii in combination with standard antibiotics for Clostridium difficile disease. JAMA. 1994 Jun 22-29;271(24):1913-8. Erratum in: JAMA 1994 Aug 17;272(7):518. PMID: 8201735.

Surawicz CM, McFarland LV, Greenberg RN, Rubin M, Fekety R, Mulligan ME, Garcia RJ, Brandmarker S, Bowen K, Borjal D, Elmer GW. The search for a better treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile disease: use of high-dose vancomycin combined with Saccharomyces boulardii. Clin Infect Dis. 2000 Oct;31(4):1012-7. doi: 10.1086/318130. Epub 2000 Oct 25. PMID: 11049785.

Marjoram for Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

A 2021 study found that people with Parkinson’s disease who drank marjoram tea daily had significant improvement in non-motor symptoms and depression compared to placebo over 30 days. The effect is thought to be due to enhanced antioxidant defense. Marjoram is not suitable for long-term use as it contains hydroxyquinone, which may be carcinogenic (could cause cancer). Long-term studies are lacking and there may be other side effects.

Chahra C, Anis H, Bissene D, Mejda S, Jihène M, Salma N, Manel N, Sana BA, Hedi K, Maha BF. The effect of Origanum majorana tea on motor and non-motor symptoms in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled pilot study. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2021 Oct;91:23-27. doi: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2021.08.013. Epub 2021 Aug 25. PMID: 34455218.

Chahra C, Sawssen M, Anis H, Salma N, Manel N, Sana BA, Maha BF. Effect of Origanum majorana tea on oxidative stress biomarkers in Parkinson's disease: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. Neuroscience. 2025 Nov 10;587:139-145. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2025.09.047. Epub 2025 Oct 4. PMID: 41052623.

“ABC Herbalgram Website.” Herbalgram.org, 2026, www.herbalgram.org/resources/commission-e-monographs/monograph-unapproved-herbs/marjoram/

Gymnema Sylvestre May Reduce Sweet Taste Perception

A 2020 study found that a Gymnema sylvestre mouth rinse used before sweets significantly reduced sweet taste intensity versus control. Gymnemic acids block sweet taste receptors on the tongue. Although, another study found that Gymnema may not necessarily affect behavioral intake of sweets. Gymnema may cause stomach upset among other, more serious, side effects. Long-term data and guidance on dosing is lacking.

Kashima N, Kimura K, Nishitani N, Yamaoka Endo M, Fukuba Y, Kashima H. Suppression of Oral Sweet Sensations during Consumption of Sweet Food in Humans: Effects on Gastric Emptying Rate, Glycemic Response, Appetite, Food Satisfaction and Desire for Basic Tastes. Nutrients. 2020 Apr 28;12(5):1249. doi: 10.3390/nu12051249. PMID: 32353974; PMCID: PMC7282028.

Turner S, Diako C, Kruger R, Wong M, Wood W, Rutherfurd-Markwick K, Stice E, Ali A. The Effect of a 14-Day gymnema sylvestre Intervention to Reduce Sugar Cravings in Adults. Nutrients. 2022 Dec 12;14(24):5287. doi: 10.3390/nu14245287. PMID: 36558446; PMCID: PMC9788288.

Black Seeds May Improve Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

A 2024 study found that 1000mg of black seeds (Nigella sativa) taken daily was significantly more effective than medroxyprogesterone (a type of contraceptive) at improving symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) over 16 weeks in adolescents. PCOS symptoms included hirsutism, menstrual irregularities and hormone levels. Another study showed significant improvement in premenstrual syndrome with black seeds vs placebo after 2 months. Long-term use and high doses of black seeds may cause stomach upset among other, possible serious, side effects.

Mahmoudian A, Ashouri A, Bilandi RR, Mohammadzadeh F, Dashti S, Bahri N. The possible short-term of Nigella sativa - L in the management of adolescent polycystic ovarian syndrome: results of a randomized controlled trial. J Ovarian Res. 2024 Jul 12;17(1):144. doi: 10.1186/s13048-024-01460-x. PMID: 38997723; PMCID: PMC11242022.

Afrin F, Neela MM, Islam A, Islam MR, Hossain MM. Nigella sativa Seeds Ease Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome in Women: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study. Biomed Res Int. 2025 Nov 19;2025:9811666. doi: 10.1155/bmri/9811666. PMID: 41267796; PMCID: PMC12628082.

Kemal Sener, Adem Cakir, Onder Yesiloglu, Ertugrul Altug, Ramazan Guven, Semih Korkut, Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury after consumption of black seed oil, Toxicon, Volume 245, 2024, 107787, ISSN 0041-0101, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107787.

Calendula Cream for Contact Dermatitis

A 2025 study found that a 1% cream of calendula was significantly more effective than placebo at improving hydration and skin barrier integrity over 8 days in people with contact dermatitis. Studies have also shown significantly faster wound healing and reduced wound pain with topical calendula. Some people may be allergic to calendula.

Crnčević MŠ, Durdov T, Rušić D, Ramić L, Ćosić A, Bukić J, Jokić S, Aladić K. Double-blind randomised controlled trial of an emollient cream with and without 1 % supercritical CO2 extract of Calendula officinalis in contact dermatitis. Acta Pharm. 2026 Jan 13;75(4):699-708. doi: 10.2478/acph-2025-0035. PMID: 41527980.

Giostri GS, Novak EM, Buzzi M, Guarita-Souza LC. Treatment of acute wounds in hand with Calendula officinalis L.: A randomized trial. Tissue Barriers. 2022 Jul 3;10(3):1994822. doi: 10.1080/21688370.2021.1994822. Epub 2021 Oct 21. Erratum in: Tissue Barriers. 2022 Jul 3;10(3):2056359. doi: 10.1080/21688370.2022.2056359. PMID: 34674610; PMCID: PMC9359387.

De Angelis C, Di Stadio A, Vitale S, Saccone G, Angelis MC, Zizolfi B, Di Spiezio Sardo A. Use of calendula ointment after episiotomy: a randomized clinical trial. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2022 May;35(10):1860-1864. doi: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1770219. Epub 2020 May 27. PMID: 32460565.

Saffron for Sleep

A 2025 study found that 30mg of saffron taken daily significantly improved subjective and objective measures of sleep quality in adults 55-85 years old over 4 weeks compared to placebo. Saffron contains crocin and safranal; both of which may enhance non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep. Saffron may also improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. High doses may cause headaches, nausea or other side effects.

Lang L, Ditton A, Stanescu A, Jainani V, McArthur S, Pourtau L, Gaudout D, Pontifex MG, Tsigarides J, Steward T, Sami S, Muller M, Hornberger M, Vauzour D, Lazar AS. A standardised saffron extract improves subjective and objective sleep quality in healthy older adults with sleep complaints: results from the gut-sleep-brain axis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Food Funct. 2025 Aug 26;16(17):6817-6832. doi: 10.1039/d5fo00917k. PMID: 40762630.

Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Marx W, Díez-Municio M, Morán-Valero MI. An Examination into the Effects of a Saffron Extract (Affron) on Mood and General Wellbeing in Adults Experiencing Low Mood: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Nutr. 2025 Jul;155(7):2300-2311. doi: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.05.024. Epub 2025 May 23. PMID: 40414301.

Dormal V, Suchareau M, Copine S, Simar L, Deldicque L. The Effects of Combined Scutellaria and Saffron Supplementation on Mood Regulation in Participants with Mild-to-Moderate Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2025 Feb 26;17(5):809. doi: 10.3390/nu17050809. PMID: 40077679; PMCID: PMC11901551.

Bostan HB, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. Toxicology effects of saffron and its constituents: a review. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2017 Feb;20(2):110-121. doi: 10.22038/ijbms.2017.8230. PMID: 28293386; PMCID: PMC5339650.

Bilberry, Chokeberry and Honeysuckle Berry May Improve Visual Acuity

A 2024 study found that an extract of chokeberry, honeysuckle berry and bilberry was significantly more effective than placebo at improving visual acuity in people over 50 years old with presbyopia who spend much of their working hours in front of screens. These berries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant. They are thought to be anti-inflammatory and work by increasing biosynthesis of rhodopsin, modulating activity of retina enzymes, and improving microcirculation. These berries may cause digestive or other side effects and could affect the enzymes that metabolize certain medications.

Szumny D, Kucharska AZ, Czajor K, Bernacka K, Ziółkowska S, Krzyżanowska-Berkowska P, Magdalan J, Misiuk-Hojło M, Sozański T, Szeląg A. Extract from Aronia melanocarpa, Lonicera caerulea, and Vaccinium myrtillus Improves near Visual Acuity in People with Presbyopia. Nutrients. 2024 Mar 23;16(7):926. doi: 10.3390/nu16070926. PMID: 38612968; PMCID: PMC11013737.

Nevin Sanlier, Ezgi Nur Cinar, Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) as a Bioactive Treasure: Insights into Its Health-Promoting Effects, Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 135, 2025, 107116, ISSN 1756-4646, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2025.107116.

Mastic Gum for Heartburn

A 2025 study found that 1.4g of resin from the mastic tree taken daily was significantly more effective than placebo at improving functional dyspepsia over 4 weeks. Functional dyspepsia included abdominal bloating and heartburn. The word masticate (to chew) is likely derived from the name of this tree located on the island of Chios in Greece. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates also noted the therapeutic properties of mastic resin. Mastic gum may even be effective for gastric ulcers.

Kleftaki SA, Amerikanou C, Tzavara C, Biagki T, Sigala D, Bouziou A, Zouboulaki S, Koutsia A, Smyrnioudis EV, Anapliotis P, Kaliora AC. A randomized, three-way crossover clinical trial on the efficacy of Mastiha based therapies (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia) in functional dyspepsia. Pharmacol Res. 2025 Dec;222:108019. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2025.108019. Epub 2025 Nov 4. PMID: 41197785.

Dabos KJ, Sfika E, Vlatta LJ, Frantzi D, Amygdalos GI, Giannikopoulos G. Is Chios mastic gum effective in the treatment of functional dyspepsia? A prospective randomised double-blind placebo controlled trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010 Feb 3;127(2):205-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.11.021. Epub 2009 Dec 2. PMID: 19961914.

Blomquist SA, Fernandez ML. Chios Mastic Gum: A Promising Phytotherapeutic for Cardiometabolic Health. Nutrients. 2024 Sep 2;16(17):2941. doi: 10.3390/nu16172941. PMID: 39275256; PMCID: PMC11397435.

Huwez FU, Thirlwell D, Cockayne A, Ala'Aldeen DA. Mastic gum kills Helicobacter pylori. N Engl J Med. 1998 Dec 24;339(26):1946. doi: 10.1056/NEJM199812243392618. PMID: 9874617.

Chasteberry for Premenstrual Syndrome

A 2012 study found that a 20mg extract of chasteberry taken daily over 3 menstrual cycles was significantly more effective than placebo at reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome was assessed by reported levels of irritability, mood alteration, anger, headache, bloating and breast fullness. The German Commission E, an expert committee in Germany to assess herbs, has approved chasteberry use for menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome and cyclical breast discomfort. Chasteberry may cause dry mouth, dizziness or stomach upset among other side effects.

Schellenberg R, Zimmermann C, Drewe J, Hoexter G, Zahner C. Dose-dependent efficacy of the Vitex agnus castus extract Ze 440 in patients suffering from premenstrual syndrome. Phytomedicine. 2012 Nov 15;19(14):1325-31. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.08.006. Epub 2012 Sep 28. PMID: 23022391.

Blumenthal M. German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices. Commission E. Herbal Medicine: expanded Commission E monographs. 1st ed. Newton, Mass.: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000.

N-Acetylcysteine for Cocaine Dependence

A 2020 study found that 1200mg of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) taken three times daily significantly reduced cocaine-seeking behavior compared to placebo over 1 week. Another study showed that people taking NAC were significantly more likely to remain abstinent from cocaine compared to those taking placebo. NAC may cause nausea among other side effects.

Woodcock EA, Lundahl LH, Khatib D, Stanley JA, Greenwald MK. N-acetylcysteine reduces cocaine-seeking behavior and anterior cingulate glutamate/glutamine levels among cocaine-dependent individuals. Addict Biol. 2021 Mar;26(2):e12900. doi: 10.1111/adb.12900. Epub 2020 Mar 24. PMID: 32212237; PMCID: PMC10369173.

LaRowe SD, Kalivas PW, Nicholas JS, Randall PK, Mardikian PN, Malcolm RJ. A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of cocaine dependence. Am J Addict. 2013 Sep-Oct;22(5):443-52. doi: 10.1111/j.1521-0391.2013.12034.x. Epub 2013 May 15. PMID: 23952889; PMCID: PMC4348575.

Alpha Lipoic Acid for Peripheral Neuropathy

A 2020 study found that 600mg of alpha lipoic acid (an antioxidant) taken twice daily was significantly more effective than placebo at treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy over 6 months. Other studies have shown that alpha lipoic acid, in combination with the medication ipidacrine hydrochloride, may prevent peripheral neuropathy caused by a type of chemotherapy. Alpha lipoic acid may cause nausea among other side effects.

El-Nahas MR, Elkannishy G, Abdelhafez H, Elkhamisy ET, El-Sehrawy AA. Oral Alpha Lipoic Acid Treatment for Symptomatic Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Study. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2020;20(9):1531-1534. doi: 10.2174/1871530320666200506081407. PMID: 32370731.

Holotiuk IS, Kryzhanivska AY, Holotiuk SI, Holotiuk VV, Maliborska SV. EFFECTIVENESS OF ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRINE HYDROCHLORIDE IN PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY ASSESSED BY ELECTRONEUROMYOGRAPHY OF SUPERFICIAL PERONEAL AND SURAL NERVES. Exp Oncol. 2022 Dec;44(4):300-306. doi: 10.32471/exp-oncology.2312-8852.vol-44-no-4.19030. PMID: 36811539.

Holotiuk I, Kryzhanivska A, Holotiuk S, Teren T, Hirna H. PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED MOTOR NEUROPATHY OF FIBULAR AND TIBIAL NERVES WITH ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRIN HYDROCHLORIDE IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS. Exp Oncol. 2025 Oct 7;47(2):230-237. doi: 10.15407/exp-oncology.2025.02.230. PMID: 41058457.

Medical Marijuana for Alzheimer’s Disease

A 2025 study found that a low dose oral cannabis extract (0.350 mg of THC and 0.245 mg of CBD) was significantly more effective than placebo at improving cognitive assessment scores over 26 weeks in people ages 60-80 years old with Alzheimer’s disease. Marijuana can cause lightheadedness, nausea or other side effects. It can also significantly interact with certain medications like Warfarin. Marijuana is not recommended for people at increased risk for psychosis. Marijuana is not safe during pregnancy. Marijuana is federally illegal.

Cury RM, da Silva T, Cezar-Dos-Santos F, Fakih YRC, Narvaez KAR, Gouvea MC, Espínola C, Ferreira CF, de Castro WAC, Pamplona FA, Silva EGD, Bicca MA, Nascimento FP. A randomized clinical trial of low-dose cannabis extract in Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2025 Dec;108(4):1602-1613. doi: 10.1177/13872877251389608. Epub 2025 Oct 29. PMID: 41160460.

Quercetin for Seasonal Allergies

A 2022 study found that 200mg of quercetin daily significantly improved seasonal allergy symptoms compared to placebo over 4 weeks. Quercetin is a flavonoid commonly found in vegetables. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting mast cell activity and histamine release. Another study found that quercetin was similarly effective in children. Prolonged intake and high doses could cause stomach discomfort among other side effects.

Yamada S, Shirai M, Inaba Y, Takara T. Effects of repeated oral intake of a quercetin-containing supplement on allergic reaction: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel-group study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2022 Jun;26(12):4331-4345. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_202206_29072. PMID: 35776034.

Marseglia G, Licari A, Leonardi S, Papale M, Zicari AM, Schiavi L, Ciprandi G; Italian Study Group on Pediatric Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis. A polycentric, randomized, parallel-group, study on Lertal®, a multicomponent nutraceutical, as preventive treatment in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: phase II. Ital J Pediatr. 2019 Jul 18;45(1):84. doi: 10.1186/s13052-019-0678-y. PMID: 31319883; PMCID: PMC6637471.

Feverfew for Migraines

A 2005 study found that an extract of feverfew 6.25mg taken three times per day was significantly more effective than placebo at reducing the number of migraines per month over a period of 4 months. Feverfew may be less effective than typical medications used for migraine prevention, but side effects in trials have been fewer and less severe. Feverfew can cause gastrointestinal issues among other side effects. Feverfew is not safe to take during pregnancy.

Diener HC, Pfaffenrath V, Schnitker J, Friede M, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH. Efficacy and safety of 6.25 mg t.i.d. feverfew CO2-extract (MIG-99) in migraine prevention--a randomized, double-blind, multicentre, placebo-controlled study. Cephalalgia. 2005 Nov;25(11):1031-41. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2982.2005.00950.x. PMID: 16232154.

NCCIH. “Feverfew.” NCCIH, Dec. 2020, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/feverfew.

Ashwagandha for Anxiety and Depression

A 2025 study found that a 125mg extract of ashwagandha root significantly improved anxiety and stress scores on questionnaire compared to placebo over 84 days. Another study in 2024 found that a 500mg standardized extract of ashwagandha root daily significantly improved mild to moderate anxiety and depression vs placebo over 90 days. Ashwagandha is thought to increase serotonin levels. Ashwagandha may cause gastrointestinal issues among other side effects. Prolonged use at high doses can lead to liver injury.

Mahadevan M, Gopukumar K, Gupta R, Morde A, Patni P, Srinivas SS, Bhuvanendran A, Phanindra A. A New Ashwagandha Formulation (Zenroot™) Alleviates Stress and Anxiety Symptoms While Improving Mood and Sleep Quality: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Adv Ther. 2025 Oct;42(10):5238-5254. doi: 10.1007/s12325-025-03327-z. Epub 2025 Aug 28. PMID: 40875185; PMCID: PMC12474591.

Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Murali A, Vishwanathan DT, Mamidala RV, Mundkur L. A Standardized Withania somnifera (Linn.) Root Extract with Piperine Alleviates the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. J Integr Complement Med. 2024 May;30(5):459-468. doi: 10.1089/jicm.2023.0279. Epub 2023 Oct 25. PMID: 37878284.

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

Silicone for Scars

Studies have shown that topical silicone can improve scar appearance. A 2019 study found that a new cream of highly selective growth factors in a silicone matrix leads to significantly better improvement in postsurgical scar appearance vs silicone alone over 12 weeks. A 2020 study also found that a similar cream containing growth factors and vitamins can significantly improve hyperpigmentation vs standard therapy. Topical silicone may cause irritation among other side effects.

Christopher I Zoumalan, Shiva C Tadayon, Jason Roostaeian, Anthony M Rossi, Allen Gabriel, Safety and Efficacy of a Scar Cream Consisting of Highly Selective Growth Factors Within a Silicone Cream Matrix: A Double-Blinded, Randomized, Multicenter Study, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 39, Issue 3, March 2019, Pages 319–330, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjy185

Kalasho BD, Minokadeh A, Zhang-Nunes S, Zoumalan RA, Shemirani NL, Waldman AR, Pletzer V, Zoumalan CI. Evaluating the safety and efficacy of a new topical formulation for hyperpigmentation consisting of highly selective growth factors, tranexamic acid, and other ingredients to hydroquinone 4%: a prospective, randomized, controlled split face study. J Cosmet Sci. 2020 Sep/Oct;71(5):263-290.

Frankincense for Osteoarthritis

A 2025 study found that a standardized resin extract of frankincense (Boswellia serrata) 100mg daily was significantly more effective than placebo at improving pain and function in people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis over 180 days. Pain and function were assessed with questionnaires and physical testing. MRI also seemed to show increases in cartilage volume, thickness, and joint space width with frankincense.

Another 2025 study found that frankincense resin (300mg) and celery seed extract (250mg) was also more effective than placebo at improving symptoms in people with knee osteoarthritis over 90 days. Frankincense can cause gastrointestinal symptoms among other side effects. Prolonged use at high doses can lead to rare but serious electrolyte imbalances.

Kumar B, Ghaytidak AB, Pandey AK, Somepalli RR, Sarda P, Raychaudhuri SP, Rokkam MP. A Standardized Boswellia serrata Extract Improves Knee Joint Function and Cartilage Morphology in Human Volunteers with Mild to Moderate Osteoarthritis in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. J Am Nutr Assoc. 2025 Jul;44(5):375-386. doi: 10.1080/27697061.2024.2438894. Epub 2024 Dec 19. PMID: 39700461.

Vaidya N, Agarwal R, Dipankar DG, Patkar H, Ganu G, Nagore D, Godse C, Mehta A, Mehta D, Nair S. Efficacy and Safety of Boswellia serrata and Apium graveolens L. Extract Against Knee Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Degeneration: A Randomized, Double-blind, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Pharm Res. 2025 Feb;42(2):249-269. doi: 10.1007/s11095-025-03818-2. Epub 2025 Jan 28. PMID: 39875757; PMCID: PMC11880083.

Finsterer J. Boswellia serrata intoxication manifesting with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, hyponatremia, seizure, and rhabdomyolysis. Crit Care Sci. 2024 Jun 24;36:e20240049en. doi: 10.62675/2965-2774.20240049-en. PMID: 38922237; PMCID: PMC11152439.

Yarrow for Multiple Sclerosis

A 2019 study found that yarrow significantly decreased the annual relapse rate more than placebo over 1 year, in addition to standard treatment, for people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The 500mg daily dose of yarrow also significantly decreased the mean volume change of lesions on MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Yarrow improved cognitive performance and increased time to first relapse compared to placebo. Yarrow is not safe to use in pregnancy. Yarrow can cause an allergic reaction, digestive issues or other side effects.

Ayoobi F, Moghadam-Ahmadi A, Amiri H, Vakilian A, Heidari M, Farahmand H, Fathollahi MS, Fatemi I, Shafiei SA, Alahtavakoli M, Shamsizadeh A. Achillea millefolium is beneficial as an add-on therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 2019 Jan;52:89-97. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.06.017. Epub 2018 Jun 27. PMID: 30599916.

Topical Chamomile for Diabetic Neuropathy and Carpal Tunnel

A 2025 study found that topical chamomile oil significantly improved diabetic neuropathy when added to standard medication therapy with gabapentin as compared to placebo oil with gabapentin. Improvement was measured with neurothesiometer (vibration perception) and questionnaires.

Similarly, a 2017 study found that topical chamomile oil significantly improved mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome vs placebo in addition to wrist splint over 4 weeks. Compound latency of the median nerve in the chamomile oil group significantly decreased compared to placebo. Some people may be allergic to chamomile and this can be severe in rare cases. Chamomile can also cause drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues or other side effects.

Amiri M, Imani MH, Imani AH, Bazrafshan H, Bazrafshan M, Vardanjani HM, Zohalinezhad ME. Topical chamomile oil as a novel therapeutic intervention for diabetic neuropathy: A randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial. Explore (NY). 2025 Jul-Aug;21(4):103189. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103189. Epub 2025 May 16. PMID: 40440968.

Hashempur MH, Ghasemi MS, Daneshfard B, Ghoreishi PS, Lari ZN, Homayouni K, Zargaran A. Efficacy of topical chamomile oil for mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2017 Feb;26:61-67. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.11.010. Epub 2016 Nov 30. PMID: 28107852.