In a trial of 42 women, those who were given daily doses of 3,000mg of vitamin C had better libido and orgasms compared with the placebo group. However, this dose is the equivalent of consuming about 10 litres of orange juice or 100 oranges. Plus the Food Standards Agency doesn t recommend anything higher than 1,000mg, as excess vitamin C can cause loose stools.
Other less robust studies have suggested that vitamin C improves mood and energy levels. Blackcurrants contain vision-boosting antioxidants called anthocyanosides, and a small study has indicated that the berries may boost night vision. Scientists stumbled on the fruit s vision-boosting powers when investigating stories that Second World War pilots had a good helping of bilberry jam to improve their eyesight before their night missions.
Subsequent trials failed to produce concrete evidence for bilberries, but they found that blackcurrants may help to improve night vision. There is evidence that this vegetable lowers cholesterol levels. In a study of 143 people with high cholesterol levels, taking a daily artichoke extract (450mg) was found to lower their readings significantly.
Total cholesterol fell by 18.5 per cent. The researchers were unclear why, but they thought that it may have something to do with an artichoke compound called luteolin.
Unfortunately for all artichoke fans, the amount needed for any therapeutic benefit can be obtained only from supplements. Ditch the prickly bits; nettle root may be good for enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasmia. This condition is not cancerous and isn t associated with prostate cancer.
It mostly affects the over40s, and one of the symptoms is the frequent need to go to the loo. A six-month study of 558 Iranian men found that the root was more effective than a placebo. However, it s always best to have prostate complaints checked by your GP before embarking on any treatment.
The rather scary-sounding southern African herb devil s claw (so called because of its appearance) seems to have antiinflammatory properties that work on rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which the joints become swollen and painful. One study followed 89 patients for two months; the treatment group showed an increase in mobility and a decrease in pain compared with the placebo group. Another alternative treatment for the condition, backed by scientific evidence, is Boswellia, a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for about 6,000 years.
Two recent studies have reported a reduction in pain and swelling over three months, which is thought to be due to Boswellia s antiinflammatory activity. Both of these herbs are taken as capsules. In a trial of 42 women, those who were given daily doses of 3,000mg of vitamin C had better libido and orgasms compared with the placebo group.
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