Very few places host more junk science than advertisements for homeopathic medicinal herb products. Claims of near-miracles are made which have neither been tested nor substantiated. Still, some herbs have actually been in use for millennia to treat many conditions and are still favorites when it comes to medicinal herb gardening. Here are some herbs used for medicinal purposes which have been analyzed by leading researchers, along with their potential benefits and side effects.

Chamomile

Chamomile, an herb named after a similarly named dried flower, is often used to make a tasty and safe tea. Drinking it can soothe you, and may even work as a mild sedative. Some claim that chamomile can lessen inflammation and fever, but this has not yet been verified. Other studies claim that chamomile contains certain compounds that can inhibit certain stomach ulcers caused by bacteria, but again this has not be fully proven.

While it is not exactly the miracle cure it is often touted as being, and its pollen could cause an allergic reaction in some people, this chamomile is a safe herb for most to use.

Echinacea

A number of the substances found in the perennial, Echinacea, have been thoroughly studied. And while science has yet to entirely validate any of the claims made about it, it is often thought to be an aid to the immune system and has been used in the treatment of upper respiratory problems brought on by colds.

Studies have given evidence that it might lessen the time you are sick and relieve symptoms in the meantime. Others suggest that it makes you less susceptible to frequent illnesses in the first place. It's hard to say conclusively whether these claims are true, since a lot of complex factors decide whether you catch a cold. Whether it works or not, the herb is at least safe - it can't hurt as a placebo.

Echinacea is one herb that people diagnosed with diabetes should consult the advice of a physician before consuming.

Feverfew

Feverfew is an herb to be think carefully of when it comes to your medicinal herb gardening efforts. There is some medical belief that the perennial feverfew, contains active ingredients that may help in treating inflammation and migraines. The usage of feverfew has shown a tendency to reduce clotting.

Keep in mind there are some potentially dangerous side effects noted. It could cause skin inflammation and oral ulcers. Heart rate and pulse could be elevated and it could potentially interact with prescription drugs prescribed for migraines. This herb may even interact with out body's absorption of iron.

Ginseng

Ginseng is another medicinal herb. This ancient herb dates back to use in China and India thousands of years ago. Studies show that it may lower blood sugar and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

While there is no danger in consuming this herb, there has been no conclusive proof that it will truly enhance sexual performance. Use of the herb ginseng comes with a few warnings. It has been shown to induce asthma attacks when taken in large quantities. It can also can blood sugar levels to drop to levels that are not healthy. One final caution is applicable to women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding. They should avoid taking ginseng.

Before you try herbs to treat your own health, you should gather a lot of information and do your own research first. Lots of stories and opinions abound, and medicinal herbs have been used for a long time. But it's hard to get truly scientific, objective information. Be careful.

Medicinal herb gardening can be done at home, whether in pots or a garden in the ground. It is similar to growing perennials, and you will have an entire supply of homeopathic medicinal herbs waiting for you in your yard.