Not long ago, most people would have guessed that St. John’s wort was some sort of ecclesiastical skin condition. Now, it’s one of the most popular herbal remedies around. But which herbs will grab the spotlight next? SELF asked the experts to name the newbies—and tell you whether you should consider trying them. (Of course, speak with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements; some herbs can be as potent as prescription drugs.)
THE NEXT MEMORY STRENGTHENER
Huperzine A: This herb may work even better than the mega-selling memory enhancer, ginkgo. Used for centuries in China to combat dementia, it’s derived from moss and usually sold in capsule form.
How It Works: It prevents the deterioration of a brain chemical responsible for memory and cognition.
Why It’s Hot: Several animal studies have found huperzine A to be a more effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease than either of the two FDA-approved prescription drugs, tacrine and donepezil, with fewer adverse effects. Other research shows it may help enhance short-term memory and protect the brain from normal nerve damage associated with aging.
Keep In Mind: No clinical studies have looked into its long-term effects on humans yet. Short-term side effects may include dizziness or nausea.
Worth A Shot?: Until studied further, it’s only for people over age 55 who show signs of mental deterioration, says Alan Kozikowski, Ph.D., professor of pharmacy at Georgetown University’s Institute of Cognitive and Computational Sciences in Washington, D.C. (and the scientist who first synthesized the extract).
THE NEXT SEX ENHANCER
Maca: A plant found in the Peruvian Andes, has long been revered there as a herbal aphrodisiac. Its protein-packed root is also used in folk remedies for fatigue and infertility, and it’s often served in local dishes. As a supplement, maca is sold in capsule or powder form.
How It Works: Scientists believe compounds in maca root may help regulate sex hormones by acting upon the pituitary gland. Maca’s large amounts of amino acids, calcium and iron may also increase energy by stimulating and supporting the adrenal glands.
Why It’s Hot: Unlike ginseng, the current star virility herb, maca’s got some science backing it up. A study published this year in the journal Urology found that maca significantly increased sexual function in male and female rodents, and boosted conception rates.
Keep In Mind: Though maca’s been safely consumed as food for centuries, there are no studies on humans that confirm its safety as an extract.
Worth A Shot?: Maca might enhance your libido, says the Continuum Center’s Dr. Allan Warshowsky, but at this point, you’re better off sticking with more closely studied remedies like natural testosterone.
THE NEXT HEALTHY-HEART HERB
Guggul: A tree resin used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and consumed throughout India, has been proved to not only lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, but also increase “good” HDL cholesterol. It’s sold in capsule form as an extract called “guggulipid.”
How It Works: Some research suggests that guggul reduces the liver’s production of cholesterol. It may also stimulate the thyroid, which may help lower cholesterol.
Why It’s Hot: At least one Indian study found guggul just as effective in lowering cholesterol levels as the prescription drug clofibrate, and much better at increasing HDL levels. Other studies have demonstrated the herb’s safety and effectiveness for humans.
Keep In Mind: Garlic, the other big cholesterol-lowering herb, is more extensively studied, not to mention affordable and popular. Plus, garlic’s benefits extend beyond its cholesterol-reducing properties: It helps ward off infections and some cancers.
Worth A Shot?: Sure, especially if you’re a garlic avoider. Leading herbalist Varro Tyler, Ph.D., dean emeritus of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmacal Sciences at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, recommends guggul. But he thinks the herb has one major hurdle to overcome: “It has a horrible name!”
AND… THE NEXT HERB TO AVOID
Aristolochia: It may be the next ephedra (the herbal diet aid linked to heart problems and stroke). Earlier this year, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that aristolochia (Chinese name: guan fang ji)—touted as a treatment for skin and respiratory conditions—caused more than 100 cases of kidney damage and 18 incidents of cancer at a Belgian clinic. The FDA has placed an import alert on products containing any of the 14 known aristolochic acids, but some supplements and teas with the herb still linger on American store shelves. Watch out for names like guang mu tong, birthwort, Dutchman’s pipe and Virginia snakeroot.