For hundreds of years, cultures around the world have relied on traditional herbal medicine to meet their healthcare needs.
Despite medical and technological advancements of the modern era, the world’s demand for herbal remedies is constantly rising. In fact, it’s estimated that this industry grosses about $60 billion annually. (Reference)
Some natural remedies may be more affordable and accessible than conventional medicines, and many people prefer using them because they align with their personal health ideologies
All the same, I know you may wonder whether herbal options are effective.
Here are 9 of the world’s most popular herbal medicines, including their main benefits, uses, and relevant safety information.
1. Ginseng
Ginseng is a medicinal plant whose roots are usually steeped to make a tea or dried to make a powder.
It’s frequently utilized in traditional Chinese medicine to reduce inflammation and boost immunity, brain function, and energy levels.
Among the different types of ginseng, the most commonly used are Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). American ginseng is often associated with calming and stress-relief benefits, while Asian ginseng is valued for its energizing and stimulating properties.(5Trusted Source).
Although ginseng has been used for centuries, modern research supporting its efficacy is lacking.
Several test-tube and animal studies suggest that its unique compounds, called ginsenosides, boast neuroprotective, anticancer, antidiabetes, and immune-supporting properties. Nonetheless, human research is needed (6Trusted Source).
Short-term use is considered relatively safe, but ginseng’s long-term safety remains unclear. Potential side effects include headaches, poor sleep, and digestive issues (7Trusted Source).
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summary
Ginseng is a popular herbal remedy in traditional Chinese medicine, known for supporting immunity, enhancing brain function, and increasing energy. However, more human research is needed to confirm these effects.
2. Echinacea
Echinacea, or coneflower, is a flowering plant and popular herbal remedy.
Originally from North America, it has long been used in Native American practices to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, burns, toothaches, sore throat, and upset stomach (2Trusted Source).
Most parts of the plant, including the leaves, petals, and roots, can be used medicinally — though many people believe the roots have the strongest effect.
Echinacea is usually taken as a tea or supplement but can also be applied topically.
Today, it’s primarily used to treat or prevent the common cold, though the science behind this isn’t particularly strong.
One review in over 4,000 people found a potential 10–20% reduced risk of colds from taking echinacea, but there’s little to no evidence that it treats the cold after you have caught it (3Trusted Source).
Though insufficient data exists to evaluate the long-term effects of this herb, short-term use is generally considered safe. That said, side effects like nausea, stomach pain, and skin rash have occasionally been reported (4Trusted Source).
You can find echinacea in most supermarkets and health food stores, though you can also buy it online.
summary
Echinacea is a well-known herbal remedy often taken to prevent and relieve the common cold. While research is still emerging, some studies suggest it could reduce your risk of catching a cold by up to 20%.
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3. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known simply as ginkgo, is an herbal medicine derived from the maidenhair tree (8Trusted Source).
Ginkgo is a Chinese native plant that has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and remains a best-selling herbal supplement today. It’s loaded with antioxidants that are believed to support brain function, circulation, and overall wellness. (8Trusted Source).
The seeds and leaves are traditionally used to make teas and tinctures, but most modern applications use leaf extract.
Some people also enjoy eating the raw fruit and toasted seeds. However, the seeds are mildly toxic and should only be eaten in small quantities, if at all.
Ginkgo is said to treat a wide range of ailments, including heart disease, dementia, mental difficulties, and sexual dysfunction. Yet, studies have not proven it effective for any of these conditions (9Trusted Source).
While generally well tolerated, ginkgo may cause adverse effects in some individuals, including headache, heart palpitations, gastrointestinal discomfort, skin irritation, and an elevated risk of bleeding. (9Trusted Source).
You can shop for ginkgo online or at supplement shops.
summary
Ginkgo has long been used in traditional medicine to address health issues like heart disease, memory loss, and sexual dysfunction. However, current research has yet to fully support its effectiveness for treating these conditions.
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4. Elderberry
Elderberry is a time-tested herbal remedy made from the cooked berries of the Sambucus nigra plant. Traditionally, it’s been used to help relieve headaches, nerve pain, toothaches, viral infections, colds, and even constipation. (10).
It is currently marketed primarily as a treatment for symptoms linked to the flu and common cold.
Elderberry is available as a syrup or lozenge, although there’s no standard dosage. Some people prefer to make their own syrup or tea by cooking elderberries with other ingredients, such as honey and ginger.
Test-tube studies demonstrate that its plant compounds have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, but human research is lacking (11Trusted Source).
While a few small human studies indicate that elderberry shortens the duration of flu infections, larger studies are needed to determine if it’s any more effective than conventional antiviral therapies (12Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source, 14Trusted Source).
Short-term use is considered safe, but the unripe or raw fruit is toxic and may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (15Trusted Source).
Keep an eye out for this herbal remedy when you’re next in a health shop, or buy it online.
summary
Elderberry is used to treat cold and flu symptoms, with some research suggesting that it may be at least mildly effective. While cooked elderberry is safe, it’s toxic if eaten raw or unripe.
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5. Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an herb that belongs to the ginger family (18Trusted Source).
Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in traditional cooking and healing, and today it’s gaining recognition for its impressive anti-inflammatory benefits.
Curcumin is the major active compound in turmeric. It may treat a host of conditions, including chronic inflammation, pain, metabolic syndrome, and anxiety (18Trusted Source).
In particular, multiple studies reveal that supplemental doses of curcumin are as effective for alleviating arthritis pain as some common anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen (18Trusted Source).
Both turmeric and curcumin supplements are widely considered safe, but very high doses may lead to diarrhea, headache, or skin irritation.
You can also use fresh or dried turmeric in dishes like curries, although the amount you typically eat in food isn’t likely to have a significant medicinal effect.
Instead, consider purchasing supplements online.
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summary
Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric may be especially helpful in reducing joint pain and discomfort caused by arthritis..
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6. St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort (SJW) is an herbal medicine derived from the flowering plant Hypericum perforatum. Its small, yellow flowers are commonly used to make teas, capsules, or extracts (16Trusted Source).
Its use can be traced back to ancient Greece, and SJW is still frequently prescribed by medical professionals in parts of Europe (16Trusted Source).
Traditionally valued for its ability to promote wound healing and relieve symptoms of insomnia, depression, and kidney or lung conditions, turmeric is now commonly used to treat mild to moderate depression.
Several studies have found that short-term use of St. John’s Wort may be as effective as traditional antidepressants. However, there is limited research on its long-term safety and effectiveness, particularly for those experiencing severe depression or suicidal thoughts.(17Trusted Source).
SJW has relatively few side effects but may cause allergic reactions, dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, and increased light sensitivity (16Trusted Source).
It also interferes with numerous medications, including antidepressants, birth control, blood thinners, certain pain medications, and some types of cancer treatments (16Trusted Source).
Particular drug interactions could be fatal, so if you take any prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider prior to using SJW.
If you decide to try it out, SJW is available online and in numerous stores.
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summary
St. John’s wort may treat mild to moderate depression. Yet, you may need to practice caution or avoid it because it interferes with several conventional medicines.
7. Ginger
Ginger is a commonplace ingredient and herbal medicine. You can eat it fresh or dried, though its main medicinal forms are as a tea or capsule.
Ginger, like turmeric, is a type of underground stem known as a rhizome. It’s loaded with health-supporting compounds and has been used for generations in traditional medicine to relieve colds, nausea, headaches, and high blood pressure.(18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source).
Its best-established modern use is for relieving nausea associated with pregnancy, chemotherapy, and medical operations (19Trusted Source).
Furthermore, test-tube and animal research reveals potential benefits for treating and preventing illnesses like heart disease and cancer, although the evidence is mixed (19Trusted Source).
Some small human studies propose that this root may reduce your risk of blood clot formation, although it hasn’t been proven any more effective than conventional therapies (19Trusted Source).
Ginger is considered safe for most people, and side effects are rare. Still, in large amounts, it may cause mild heartburn or digestive discomfort like diarrhea. (20Trusted Source).
You can find ginger supplements at your local supermarket and online.
summary
Loaded with active plant compounds, ginger is believed to support a wide range of health benefits. However, it’s best known for its effectiveness in reducing nausea and motion sickness.
8. Chamomile
Chamomile is a flowering plant that also happens to be one of the most popular herbal medicines in the world.
The flowers are most often used to make tea, but the leaves may also be dried and used for making tea, medicinal extracts, or topical compresses.
For thousands of years, chamomile has been used as a remedy for nausea, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, urinary tract infections, wounds, and upper respiratory infections (24Trusted Source).
This herb packs over 100 active compounds, many of which are thought to contribute to its numerous benefits (24Trusted Source).
Chamomile has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects in test-tube and animal studies. However, more human research is needed to fully confirm these health benefits.(25Trusted Source).
While large-scale research is still needed, a few small human studies indicate that chamomile may offer relief from diarrhea, mood imbalances, PMS-related cramping, and the pain and inflammation tied to osteoarthritis. (25Trusted Source).
Chamomile is safe for most people but may cause an allergic reaction — especially if you’re allergic to similar plants, such as daisies, ragweed, or marigolds (26Trusted Source).
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summary
Despite limited clinical research, chamomile remains a globally popular herbal remedy, commonly used to support relief from a wide range of ailments, from stress and digestive issues to skin irritation.
9. Valerian
Often called “nature’s Valium,” valerian is a flowering herb whose roots are widely used for their calming effects, helping to promote relaxation and ease anxiety naturally.
Valerian root may be dried and consumed in capsule form or steeped to make tea.
Its use can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was taken to relieve restlessness, tremors, headaches, and heart palpitations. Today, it’s most often utilized to treat insomnia and anxiety (21Trusted Source).
Still, evidence supporting these uses isn’t particularly strong (22Trusted Source).
One review found valerian to be somewhat effective for inducing sleep, but many of the study results were based on subjective reports from participants (23Trusted Source).
While valerian is typically well tolerated, mild side effects like headaches and digestive upset can occur. It’s important to avoid taking it with other sedatives, as the combined effect may cause extreme drowsiness or fatigue. (21Trusted Source).
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summary
Valerian root is often used as a natural sleep and anti-anxiety aid, though evidence supporting its efficacy is weak.
Precautions for using herbal medicines
If you’re considering taking herbal supplements, it’s best to consult a health professional to ensure proper dosage, understand potential side effects, and watch out for reactions with other medications.
Safety
Because herbal medicines are derived from natural sources, people often assume that they’re inherently safe — but this isn’t necessarily the case.
Like conventional drugs, herbal supplements may cause serious side effects or interfere with other medications you’re taking.
For instance, raw elderberries can be toxic, St. John’s wort can interact dangerously with antidepressants, and valerian root can compound the effects of sedatives.
Additionally, many herbal medicines have not been studied rigorously enough to verify their safety for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Thus, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you should talk to your healthcare provider prior to taking any herbal medicines to ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your baby.
Ensuring quality
It’s important to note that herbal supplements are not as tightly regulated as prescription or over-the-counter medications, which can impact their quality and consistency..
In some countries, such as the United States, herbal manufacturers don’t have to provide proof of efficacy or purity before marketing their products. As such, some supplements may list ingredients improperly or even contain compounds not stated on the label.
Thus, you should opt for brands that have been tested for quality by a third-party organization, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia or NSF International.
summary
While herbal supplements can offer health benefits, they may also cause side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new herbal remedy, and be sure to choose trusted brands that are certified for purity and quality.
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The bottom line
Across the world, many individuals turn to herbal medicine as a natural way to manage health concerns. With countless options available, some of the most widely used herbs include ginkgo, ginseng, ginger, turmeric, and chamomile..
Though their applications tend to be very broad, many of their supposed benefits lack strong scientific evidence.
Keep in mind that, like conventional drugs, herbal remedies may interact negatively with other medicines. Thus, it’s recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before adding a new herb or supplement to your routine.
How this article was reviewed:
History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Medically Reviewed By
Kathy Warwick, RD, LD
Copy Edited By
Susanne Arthur
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