Taxonomy and Identity Ox-eye daisy is often confused with the common lawn daisy (Bellis perennis) and the ornamental Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum). Correct identification is essential, as chemical composition and traditional uses differ between species….
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Abstract Oswego tea—also known as scarlet bee balm, bergamot (herb), or Monarda didyma—is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) traditionally consumed as a fragrant herbal infusion. This review synthesizes what is known (and not known) about its potential…
Read moreAbstract Ostrich fern fiddleheads are an edible seasonal vegetable rich in antioxidants, carotenoids, and essential fatty acids. Despite promising nutritional properties, there are no clinical trials evaluating ostrich fern for benign prostatic hyperplasia…
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Abstract Osha (Ligusticum porteri) is a North American umbellifer long used in Indigenous and Hispanic traditional medicine, mostly for respiratory complaints. Modern laboratory studies suggest antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions, and its root contains…
Read moreAbstract Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic preparation derived from Muscovy duck (Anas barbariae) heart and liver, serially diluted to 200C and marketed primarily for relief of influenza-like symptoms. Despite its popularity, high-quality evidence does not support…
Read moreOrris is the dried and aged rhizome of certain Iris species, primarily Iris pallida, Iris germanica, and Iris florentina. While best known for its use in perfumery due to its distinct violet-like fragrance, Orris also has a long history in traditional herbal…
Read moreAbstract Ornithine α-ketoglutarate (OKG) is a salt composed of two molecules of the amino acid L-ornithine and one molecule of α-ketoglutarate (AKG). It has been studied for decades in clinical nutrition for its roles in nitrogen handling, wound healing, and…
Read moreL-ornithine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid central to the urea cycle, the liver’s pathway for detoxifying ammonia by converting it to urea for urinary excretion. In clinical settings, ornithine is often administered as L-ornithine-L-aspartate…
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Abstract Oriental Arborvitae—botanically Platycladus orientalis (syn. Thuja orientalis, Biota orientalis)—is a Cupressaceae conifer used in East Asian medicine. Traditional uses center on bleeding disorders (leafy twig, Ce Bai Ye)…
Read moreAbstract Oregon fir balsam is the resin/oleoresin collected from the trunk of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Despite traditional and commercial interest, there is no clinical evidence that Oregon fir balsam—or Douglas-fir teas or oils—improves…
Read moreAbstract Orchic extract—usually marketed as a desiccated bovine testicular (glandular) ingredient—appears in some men’s-health supplements with claims about testosterone, vitality, and even prostate support. A critical review of clinical and…
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Overview “Opium antidote” isn’t a single herb or supplement. In modern medicine it refers to opioid antagonists—drugs that block opioid receptors and rapidly reverse the effects of opium-derived and synthetic opioids. The best-known is naloxone(used…
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