Kava Kava for Anxiety Treatment: Effective Short-Term But Uncertain Long-Term

Kava kava, an herbal supplement made from the root of Piper methysticum, has gained popularity as an alternative treatment for anxiety and insomnia. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis re-examined kava kava’s effectiveness and safety for anxiety disorders. The authors concluded that kava kava is effective for short-term anxiety relief but long-term safety remains uncertain. …

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Curcumin Health Benefits (2023): Latest Research & Therapeutic Potential

Curcumin is a natural compound found in turmeric that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Recent research has confirmed curcumin’s wide-ranging health benefits, from reducing inflammation to protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. Key Facts: Curcumin is the main active compound in turmeric and has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research shows curcumin can help …

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Green Coffee Bean Extract (CGA-7) for Weight Loss: Clinical Study Finds Benefits

A new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial provides evidence that a green coffee bean extract standardized to chlorogenic acids (CGA-7) can help with weight loss in healthy overweight adults. Key facts: CGA-7 supplementation for 12 weeks resulted in significant reductions in body weight, BMI, body fat percentage and fat mass compared to placebo. Improvements were …

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Chamomile for Anxiety, Insomnia, Sleep: An Effective Natural Treatment?

Chamomile, a popular herbal tea, has frequently been associated with benefits for relaxation and sleep. A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in Phytotherapy Research comprehensively analyzes the clinical research on chamomile for anxiety, insomnia, and sleep quality. Key facts from this study: 12 randomized controlled trials with 965 total patients were included. Trials tested …

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Kava Kava: Pacific Roots, Neuropharmacology, Modern Resurgence

Kava is an ancient ceremonial drink from the Pacific Islands that’s gaining popularity worldwide for its ability to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and protect brain health. Key facts about kava: Kava comes from the root of the Piper methysticum plant and has been consumed ceremonially and socially in Pacific Island cultures for thousands of years. …

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Pharmacology, Benefits, Risks of Kratom: A Prescription Opioid Alternative

Kratom is a plant gaining popularity as an alternative painkiller and recreational drug. But how much do we really know about its risks and benefits? About Kratom: Kratom is a tropical tree in the coffee family, native to Southeast Asia. People ingest its leaves to produce stimulant and opioid-like effects. Use is rising in the …

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Kava (Piper Methysticum): Potential Health Benefits & Risks

Kava is a plant that has been used for centuries in the South Pacific as part of traditional rituals and ceremonies. Recently, kava has garnered attention from the medical community for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly as an anti-anxiety treatment and possibly even for cancer prevention and treatment. Key facts about kava: Kava is made …

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Valerian Root for Sleep & Insomnia: Does It Really Work?

Valerian root has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for sleep problems and anxiety. Recent research suggests it may be an effective option, but results are mixed. Here are some key facts: Valerian is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia whose roots have sedative properties. The active ingredients are likely valerenic …

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Rhodiola Rosea Benefits: Brain Health, Stress Relief, Performance Enhancement

Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb with numerous scientifically-validated benefits for brain health and cognitive function. This medicinal plant can stimulate the nervous system, enhance work performance, and help treat stress-induced conditions like anxiety, fatigue and depression. Key Facts: Rhodiola rosea has a long history of use in traditional medicine in Nordic countries, Eastern Europe …

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