There has been a lot of media attention about a new over- the- counter herbal supplement called SAM-e, pronounced "Sammy".  SAM-e is short for S-adenosylmethionine which is an amino acid.

SAM-e's main claim to fame is reducing joint pain
and other aches and pains. Makers of SAM-e suggest that it may be effective in battling moderate depression without causing the annoying side effects ( insomnia and loss of libido)  which  prescription anti-depressants can create in certain individuals.

As for taking care of aching joints, studies have indicated that SAM-e is just as effective as aspirin but without the risk of bleeding ulcers; this may be particularly helpful for folks who may be susceptible to this side effect.

Is this all too good to be true?
When taking any kind of medication whether prescribed or bought over- the- counter in a health food store, first check with your doctor before starting any new remedy.  Remember that supplements like Sam-e vary in their quality and are not as rigorously tested and investigated as prescribed medications.   These supplements are not approved by the FDA (Federal Drug Administration).

St. John’s Wort
Something To Be Cheerful About!
by Ruby Banyan
Statistics show that 17 million Americans suffer from depression, more than half of whom shy away from seeking professional help. It’s no wonder that when books and television interviews endorsed an over the counter mood-elevating herb, the public responded enthusiastically. Doctors in Europe have long prescribed St. John Wort to patients suffering from depression. Find out more.

Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs
by Claire Kowalchik (Editor), William H. Hylton (Editor), Anna Carr (Illustrator)

Comprehensive and authoritative, this herb encyclopedia features information on the science and lore of herbs, complete information on gardening with herbs indoors and out, specifics on how to use herbs, and more. Home remedies, cooking with herbs, and crafting with herbs are also covered. 225 photos, 75 in color. Illustrations, charts & lists throughout.

How to grow herbs, design herb gardens, cook with herbs, make herb dyes and herb medicines--it's all here. This extensively researched A-to-Z encyclopedia describes more than 150 herbs and their uses.

FREE newsletters and support
Author interviews
& FREE book excerpts

more Personal Health Books
HotFlash Meno Support

New for 2001

Eat Cheat & Melt Fat Away
Weight loss books
FREE Healthy Cooking Recipes
FREE Fit 'n Trim Support