What are some commonly used herbal therapies?
Ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, ginseng, kava, echinacea, saw palmetto and primrose oil are some of the commonly used herbal therapies; some of them are marketed in Europe as medications, whereas in the USA they are available as dietary supplements. While herbal therapies may have some benefit in MS, caution should be taken when using these supplements. Ginkgo Ginkgo’s fruits and seeds have been used for millennia in traditional Chinese medicine. In clinical practice it is used for cognitive impairment, dementia and tinnitus (ear buzz). However, there is no evidence demonstrating that ginkgo enhances normal cognitive function. Studies have failed to demonstrate an improvement in cognition in MS patients taking Ginkgo. St. John’s wort (Hypericum Perforatum) This agent is used for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Its effect on depression has been proven in a few comparative studies. It is well tolerated and safe when taken by itself though it has a high potential for interac
