Article: 20 HERBS TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE; MORE than five million people in Britain use herbal medicines for conditions as diverse as rheumatism, asthma, depression and insomnia. And research shows that these remedies, from curry leaves to chillis, really can work. But which ones can you really rely on? ROGER DOBSON reports. Good Health.

Byline: ROGER DOBSON

LIQUORICE: Used for ulcers, chronic coughs and bronchitis, and as a dietary aid.

RESEARCH: A U.S. study based on 60 patients found that a liquorice gel significantly reduced symptoms of eczema. Studies in Israel suggest that it may also have an oestrogen-like effect and lower the risk of heart disease in postmenopausal women. Other research suggests liquorice may increase female fertility.

HOPS: Popular in herb pillows, they have been linked to improving symptoms for insomniacs and acting as a painkiller.

RESEARCH: Scientists in California investigating anti-inflammatory effects found that over a nine-hour period, hops were as effective as ...

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