In addition to these other properties asserted in Graham's sources, astragalus has been known to increase cardiac output in patients with angina pectoris and to relieve chest distress and dypsnea associated with heart failure. Feverfew is used mainly for the prevention of migraine headaches and as an anti-inflammatory in rheumatoid arthritis. It is also claimed to be useful for treatment of psoriasis, toothache, insect bites, asthma, stomach ache and menstrual problems. Feverfew, Graham said, has been claimed to relax uterine smooth muscle and therefore should be avoided during pregnancy. Valerian has a sedative effect on the central nervous system, as well as inducing smooth muscle relaxation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Astragalus is useful in strengthening the immune system.
But still, Graham said, he has seen the effects of herbs firsthand. By year five of the project, Hodne hopes to have eighteen farmers cultivating sixteen acres of a minimum seven species of herbs. He stressed that CADE is a very small organization and works only on projects that contain inherent opportunities for the advancement of local farmers and the economy. One thing I can say is that farmers need to gang together for this. One of CADE's goals is to help farmers form an alliance as this fledgling project takes shape.