Comfrey

Comfrey

Comfrey was highly valued by the Greeks as an herbal remedy. In medieval times, comfrey was used to mend fractured bones. Comfrey has many benefits, and can treat many ailments both internal and external. Comfrey has been used as an antibacterial and antifungal, to reduce inflammation, ease pain, stop swelling, and shrink blood vessels.

Comfrey grows in many areas of the world, from Newfoundland to Georgia to Louisiana, and is also found in Europe. It thrives in soft, wet ground and is usually found in meadows or valleys. Comfrey is a big plant and can be up to five feet tall. Its leaves are dark green, long, and oval-shaped, and they grow on the upright, branch at the top of the plant. It blooms from May to September and its flowers are soft, and bell-shaped, and are either purple or yellow. The root of the plant is dark, almost black, on the outside and pale and fleshy on the inside. The root secretes a thick liquid.

Medical Indications and Benefits

Comfrey is an effective remedy for a variety of conditions. It is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and to reduce swelling and inflammation. Comfrey is an anodyne, meaning that it relieves pain; it’s an astringents, meaning that it shrinks blood vessels; it expels mucous; it’s a haemostatic, meaning it can stimulated the clotting of blood; it’s a proliferant, meaning it stimulates cell growth; it’s a refrigerant and can be a mild sedative; and it expedite the healing process. Comfrey is often used to treat maladies like lung disorders, and it can help break up and build-up in the throat. Comfrey is a laxative. It contains a substance which will relieve diarrhea and assist food digestion. These properties make comfrey very valuable to people with bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Studies have also found that comfrey is beneficial in treating ulcers and diabetes. Mucilage, a gum-based thing that is produced by comfrey, keeps the bowel from emptying and represses the amounts of glucose and insulin that peak after meals. It also helps eliminate cholesterol, and the amount of nutrients in the comfrey leads to better general health.

Comfrey as a Food Supplement

Comfrey is an excellent tonic or dietary supplement because it contains many nutrients and beneficial chemicals, including protein, vitamins A and C. Comfrey is also one of only two plants that naturally contain vitamin B12 (alfalfa is the other one). Comfrey has many other B-complex vitamins as well. It also contains mucilaginous fiber, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, sulphur, copper, zinc, selenium, and germanium.

Cayenne Pepper Herb

Cayenne Pepper Herb

First used in Latin America, cayenne is now grown in many areas of the world and is a common seasoning and remedy. Healers have used cayenne for hundreds of years to treat many disorders including stomach pain, cramping, bloating, and disorders of the circulatory system.

A Brief History of Cayenne

Cayenne has been popular for millennia as an herbal remedy for helping soothe maladies of the gastrointestinal system like pain, gas, or cramps, and problems of circulation. In the modern world, many people ingest cayenne to stimulate circulation. Others use cayenne externally to reduce irritation and soothe the pain that comes with rheumatism or arthritis.

One of the active components of cayenne is capsaicin, which can help treat fibromylagia. It works in a similar way that it helps people who have arthritis. In order to treat fibromylagia, cayenne is used to make a lotion that is massaged directly into aching joints or muscles. But caution should be used when cayenne is applied externally because it creates a burning feeling, and you should always avoid getting it in your eyes.

Studies have shown that cayenne can also be effective in easing migraine pain. When used in this way, cayenne is made into a salve that is applied to the interior of the nostrils. This can cause stinging or pain in some situations.

Active Ingredients

The most effective ingredient in cayenne is capsaicin, which is very strong. Capsaicin is what makes cayenne so effective in treating pain, discomfort, or itching. It has also been shown to increase the body’s ability to release certain neurotransmitters which reduce pain, though this effect is not permanent. It can also decrease the tackiness of platelets, and cayenne can be a powerful antioxidant.

Using Cayenne for Weight Control

Research has shown that many elements of cayenne can stimulate the body’s production of heat, which also increases the rate of the body’s metabolism, which is how the body processes fats and carbohydrates. Studies have also shown that cayenne stimulates production of epinephrine and norepinephrine, which suppress appetite when combined. Many health professionals and dieticians recommend supplementing diet and exercise with 6-10 grams of cayenne per meal or 28 grams of cayenne per day in order to suppress hunger and decrease the number of calories that are turned into fat during meals.

General Dosage Recommendations

Cayenne, when used for medicinal purposes, is most often made into a salve containing 0.025-0.075% capsaicin, which is applied directly to the skin. This can cause a burning feeling when it is first used, but the sensation will subsist with each use. The salve should never be applied to cuts, scrapes, or broken skin since it can be extremely painful.

A mixture using cayenne can be taken in a dose of 0.3-1 ml up to three times a day.

Side Effects

Aside from the burning sensation when the salve is first used, cayenne is usually quite safe. Cayenne should never touch the eyes, as this can be extremely painful and has few side effects. Ingesting cayenne for a long period of time may lead to ulcers.

Chamomile

Chamomile

Related to the daisy, chamomile is indigenous to regions of Europe and western Asia. One type of the herb, German chamomile, is the type that is most often used as an herbal remedy. Chamomile had been used for centuries to treat many disorders of the gastrointestinal system. Chamomile is still used today.

Chamomile had been used by numerous ancient peoples, including Rome, Greece, and Egypt, who used chamomile to treat many maladies including fevers, stomach pain, and stroke. Chamomile is very popular in Germany, where it is called “the cure-all cure.” In America, chamomile is also very commonly used to soothe, relax, and aid sleep. German chamomile is also very commonly used to treat problems like bloating, nausea, or stomach pain.

Other benefits include soothing colds, helping wounds or abscesses heal, reducing gum inflammation, treating skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, and treating ulcerative colitis. Chamomile can also be taken as teas, soaks, or ointments to treat children’s maladies like chicken pox, diaper rash, and colic. Generally, chamomile is taken as soon as symptoms manifest themselves. If it is taken for ulcers, heartburn, or other serious problems and symptoms persist, see a professional as soon as possible.

German chamomile consists of 1-2% volatile oils like alpha-bisabolol, alpha-bisabolol oxides A & B, and matricin (usually converted to chamazulene), and other active ingredients like apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, which are flavonoids. All of these make chamomile effective in treating inflammation, muscle pain, spasms, and as a relaxant.

Dosage and Administration

1-2 milliliters of the glycerate type of German chamomile can be used 1-2 times per day as an antispasmodic or anti-inflammatory. When it’s taken for ulcers, stomach disorders, heartburn, or gas, 2-3 grams of German chamomile can be brewed into a tea by steeping in boiling water for 10 minutes. The tea can be taken regularly, up to four times per day.

To soothe lungs in extremely cold temperatures, add a few drops of essential oil to boiling water and breathe deeply.

To treat hemorrhoids, wounds, skin disorders, or insect bites, pour a quarter-pound of dried blossoms into a bath and soak. Or, use alcohol extracts of chamomile in the bath.

Side Effects and Precautions

Chamomile can be used internally or externally, but keep it away from the eyes.

Cascara Sagrada

Cascara Sagrada

Cascara Sagrada is an herbal laxative that is derived from the red-tinted bark of Rhamnus purshiana, a tree which is indigenous to the Pacific Northwest United States. It was commonly used by many Native American tribes who called it “sacred bark” and shared their medicine with Europeans.

Cascara sagrada was historically introduced to Europeans by Eli Lilly &Company, who marketed “Elixir Purgans”, a laxative which had cascara as an ingredient along with other herbs.

Currently, numerous popular laxatives incorporate cascara sagrada. In order to exploit the laxative properties of cascara sagrada, the bark has to be cured for at least a year. The process can be expedited by heating or dehydrating. The curing process is integral to neutralize the properties of cascara sagrada that can inflame the stomach or bowels.

Cascara sagrada, when properly treated, is considered to be very safe and effectual by most doctors or healers.

Health Benefits of Cascara Sagrada

The efficacy of cascara sagrada as a laxative has been demonstrated many times. When properly treated and used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, it can soothe constipation. Cascara is so gentle that even the elderly can take it, and it can treat the constipation that can be a result of complications of surgery (through averting the stress and pain that accompany anal fissures or hemorrhoids). However, the herb hasn’t been thoroughly tested, and so other benefits may not be known.

Dosage Recommendation

Every individual interacts with laxatives differently, so start with the smallest possible dose, and it is important that it is always taken with a lot of water. To treat constipation or other maladies like hemorrhoids, take one teaspoon of liquid essence three times a day or 1-2 teaspoons before going to bed; or take 1 to 2 pills of dehydrated bark before going to bed.

Burdock Root

Burdock Root

Burdock is a root that is found in Europe in Asia. It has many medicinal qualities and has been used in many herbal remedies. The root is sweet to the taste and has a gummy consistency. Traditionally, burdock has been used as a remedy for measles, arthritis, tonsillitis, viruses like colds, throat pain, and as a diuretic. In modern times, burdock is also used in oncology and to treat many other serious health problems.

Historical Uses of Burdock Root

Burdock root has often been used to purify the blood by removing toxins that can build up in blood. It can be taken orally or used topically as a remedy for skin disorders. Also, burdock root can be a diuretic or soothe aching joints. Traditional Chinese healers used burdock root in combination with other plants to make cures for colds, measles, throat pain, and tonsillitis. Burdock root was also popular in Japan as a source of vitamins and other nutrients. In modern times, burdock root has been employed in the treatment of certain cancers. However, this use of burdock root still needs to be systematically tested.

Historically, the seeds of the burdock plants were compressed to make a mixture that was effective in cleansing the bloodstream, easing pain from arthritis, and treating gout, rheumatism, ulcers, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its cancer-curing properties were also utilized in Russia and India. The Chinese used it as an aphrodisiac, and found it effective in treating barrenness and impotence.

Burdock’s active ingredients are arcigen, calcium, chlorogenic acid, essential oil, flavonoids, iron, inulin, lactone, mucilage, polyacetylenes, potassium, resin, tannin, and taraxosterol. The seeds of the plant contain beneficial fatty acids. The oil from the seeds can be used as a diaphoretic, which leads to increased perspiration, which is essential in cleansing the body of toxins or harmful elements. According to traditional healers, diaphoretics are integral to treating influenza, gallbladder or liver disorders, and to aid the kidneys which purify the blood.

Burdock root is eaten as a vegetable in many places. It has many nutrients like iron, inulin (a carbohydrate), and beneficial oils. Also, burdock can be used as a gentle laxative and help eradicate uric acid. Some of the active ingredients of burdock are polyacetylenes, which are known to be effective antibacterials and antifungals. Burdock enhances the performance of many of the organs which purify the body and eliminate toxins or waste (like the kidneys, liver, colon, etc). This enhances overall health and helps correct disorders.

Burdock is easily obtainable as an ingredient in teas, ointments, or pills. It is a powerful diuretic, and is safe to be taken internally, externally, or as food. However, it is important to make sure that the herb is pure. Some reports have indicated that burdock could have toxic properties, since cases of illness were reported that involved burdock tea. However, further analysis showed that the negative effects were the result of impure burdock root. Some belladonna, which contains atropine, had contaminated the burdock root. It is important to look at the source and purity of burdock root before obtaining it.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha

Introduction to Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has been used as an herbal remedy for hundreds of years. It has many applications, and has been used by Native Americans and Africans to treat inflammation, fevers, and to protect against infection or illness. It has also been used to boost the immune system, improve memory, and to promote overall wellness.

Ashwagandha is a shrub that flourishes in India and North America. The roots of the ashwagandha plant have been employed for millennia by Ayurvedic healers. Ashwagandha has many beneficial elements, including flavonoids and members of the withanolide class. Numerous modern studies have found that ashwagandha is very effective in reducing inflammation, treating tumors, decreasing stress, increasing mental activity, invigorating the body, and as an antioxidant.

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Scholars at Banaras Hindu University, located in Varanasi, India, have conducted research that has shown that many of the elements of ashwagandha are antioxidants. The researchers looked at the effects these elements have on the brains of test animals and found that ashwagandha led to larger amounts of three different natural antioxidants: superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. The scholars conclude, “These findings are consistent with the therapeutic use of W. somnifera as an Ayurvedic rasayana (health promoter). The antioxidant effect of active principles of W. somnifera may explain, at least in part, the reported anti-stress, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects produced by them in experimental animals, and in clinical situations."

For years, Indians have prescribed ashwagandha as a treatment for cerebral disorders in the elderly, including memory loss. Scholars from the University of Leipzig looked at the effects of ashwagandha on the brain. They dosed rats with ashwagandha and then looked at their brains to see if ashwagandha affected neurotransmitters. The research showed that ashwagandha led to more acetylcholine receptor activity. The scholars concluded that the increase of activity in that particular neurotransmitter could account for the increase in cognitive ability and memory that is attributed to ashwagandha.

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center also looked at the effects of ashwagandha. They found that extracts of the shrub had activity that was similar to GABA, which could explain why the plant is effective in reducing anxiety.

Another study, conducted in 2002, found that ashwagandha leads to increased growth of axons and dendrites. Another study in 2001 found that the plant can enhance memory. A 2000 project indicated that ashwagandha reduced anxiety and depression in animals.

Arnica

Arnica

Numerous people have recognized arnica’s powers to minimize inflammation, ease muscle pain, and accelerate the healing process. Arnica is most commonly used externally, but it can also be ingested to treat some heart conditions. However, a doctor should always be consulted before arnica is taken internally.

Also referred to as “leopard’s bane,” arnica is a perennial and has a vivid yellow flower which blooms during the middle of the summer. The flowers have been used in many different herbal remedies for centuries. It is common in Germany, and is a protected plant in many areas of Europe. Arnica has been used as an ingredient in hundreds of medicines.

Arnica has sesquiterpene lactones, which minimize inflammation and alleviate pain. Aside from those primary active ingredients, arnica also has thymol, a beneficial oil, flavonoids, inulin, carotenoids and tannins.

Arnica is effective because it increases white blood cell activity. This increases circulation since white blood cells digest blocked blood and break up fluids that get caught shaken up from injured tissues, joints, and muscles.

Since arnica can enhance circulation, it has been known to increase blood pressure, particularly in coronary blood vessels. In addition to its other external uses, it can alleviate joint pain, ease burns, and treat eczema and acne. Arnica can also be used reduce inflammation and pain, or as an antibacterial to help wounds heal quickly and neatly.

Angelica Root

Angelica Root

Called Chinese Angelica, Angelica Root, and Dong Quai, this herb helps lower symptoms of menopause, relieves menstrual cramps, and regulates menstrual periods. No scientific evidence supports its effectiveness, but Anglica has been used in oriental medicine to treat these symptoms for centuries.

This herb is primarily used to relieve reproductive problems in females. In particular, treatment includes lowering menopausal symptoms, regulating cycles, and relieving menstrual cramps. There is no scientific evidence to support angelica’s effectiveness in treating reproductive problems.

Oriental medicine often combines Chinese angelica root with various other herbs to provide treatment for conditions such as high blood pressure, arthritis, allergies, and asthma. Limited evidence supports angelica’s ability to increase immune system function; this suggests why the root is effective in treating allergies. It also may possess anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting possible benefits when treating conditions including asthma and arthritis. Angelic root may possibly relax blood vessels because of one of the chemical it contains. This may make it effective in lowering high blood pressure.

Additional research is necessary to determine and validate angelica root’s medicinal value.

Ingredients and Constituents of Chinese angelica

• Resin
• Volatile Oil
• Valerianic acid
• Coumarins
• Tannins
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B
• Bitter iridoids
• Bergapten

Dosage Recommendations

Women take up to 3-4 grams daily. Angelic root can be ingested in powder form in tea, through tinctures, tablets, and capsules.

Possible Side Effects

Those who regularly take Chinese angelic root should avoid large amounts of ultraviolet radiation and sun exposure. It is thought to have very low toxicity, but should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera

The aloe plant has been used as far back as the 4th century B.C. for its medicinal purposes. The plant was originally acquired from Socotra, a island located in the Indian Ocean. Aloe was used for remedial purposes in the 10th century A.D. by the Patriarch of Jerusalem who suggested it be used by kind Alfred the Great of Britain. Even today, after making the pilgrimage to Mecca, Muslims can place the Aloe plant over their doors as a protection from evil.

Aloe Vera Benefits

The gel from the inside of the aloe plant’s leaves is used in the United States and worldwide in cosmetics and skin treatments. Europeans use aloe as a laxative and digestion aid. The plant is a green spiny shrub that produces close to 25 leaves, forming an attractive rosette appearance.

Aloe contains a component that acts against viruses such as the flu, chickenpox, and herpes and can also kill bacteria. Aloe also stops bowels from absorbing water. This speeds the passage and volume of the bowel’s contents, resulting in a laxative effect.

Aloe Vera possesses external healing properties and speeds the healing of skin injuries such as poison ivy, ulcerations, hives, and burns. Internal healing properties result from its use as a laxative; however, use as a laxative can cause agonizing cramping. Other herbs including senna and sagrada are often used instead.

Conditions such as ulcers and diabetes have also been treated with aloe; there are no definitive clinical studies to prove aloe’s effectiveness in treating these conditions.

Dosage and Administration

To treat constipation, an aloe latex 50-200mg capsule can be ingested once daily for up to ten days.

Stabilized aloe gel in used to treat minor burns. The gel can be applied to the skin up to five times daily. The use of aloe gel on serious burns should only occur under close supervision of a medical professional. To treat inflammatory bowel conditions including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (refer to precautions below), take two tablespoons, or 30 ml, three times daily. Using aloe to treat diabetes must be done only under medical supervision. Clinical trials have used one tablespoon, or 15 ml, of aloe juice two times a day to treat type 2 diabetes.

Licorice Root

Licorice Root


Licorice was used historically to treat the skin and coughs. It is also used to treat constipation, bronchitis, inflammation, and arthritis. Licorice may be prescribed by health care providers to treat adrenocortical insufficiency, peptic ulcer, and chronic gastritis.

Glycyrrhizin, a glycoside, makes up almost 8% of the licorice plant. These chemical compounds could have positive effects on the body. Two enzymes that break down prostaglandin E (PGE) are stopped by glycyrrhizin. Low levels of PGE are linked to problems such as stomach inflammation, colic, and ulcers. Glycyrrhizin stops the enzymes from lowering PGE levels allowing levels to increase. Increased PGE aids the production of stomach mucus which lowers the high acid levels that can lead to stomach disorders. Respiratory mucus production is also increased by glycyrrhizin. This increase helps the mucus to lose stickiness and leave the body more easily. Licorice can also rid lungs of mucus and is used to treat problems such as bronchitis and to relieve coughing and sore throats. Many cough lozenges and syrups use licorice as flavoring and as a cough suppressant.

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses licorice to treat problems from tuberculosis to diabetes. Restrained production of cortisol and anti-inflammatory effects are caused by the flavonoids and glycyrrhizin in licorice. Research has shown that licorice flavonoids can kill the bacteria that causes stomach inflammation and ulcers, called Helicobacter pylori. Licorice is thought to have other antiviral properties, but none have been proven thus far.

Liquiritin, a licorice extract, is used as treatment for a skin pigmentation disorder called melasma. The effectiveness of licorice on this condition has not yet been proven.

Dosage and Administration

The following forms of licorice can be taken:

• DGL extract: 0.4 to 1.6 g three times daily to treat peptic ulcer; in chewable tablet form 300 to 400 mg 20 minutes prior to meals to treat peptic ulcer
• Tincture: 2 to 4 mL three times per day
• Dried root: 1 to 5 g three times per day as decoction

To treat sore throats in older children, use licorice tea or chew a licorice piece. To find the correct amount of tea, adjust the adult dose to the child’s weight. Adult dosages are calculated from a 150 lb adult. A 50 lb child should take 1/3 of the adult dosage.

Large amounts of licorice or chewing licorice flavored products and tobacco can put you at risk for licorice toxicities and side effects.

Ginger Herb

Ginger Herb

Ginger has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine to treat problems such as vomiting, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, coughing, and rheumatism. Tibb and Ayurvedic medicine also uses ginger to treat inflammatory joint diseases including rheumatism and arthritis.

Proposed Medical Benefits of Ginger

Ginger root is used today to provide relief for symptoms of motion sickness including sweating, vomiting, dizziness, and nausea. No conclusive results were found when studies compared commercial medications with ginger. Signs of similar results between the two did seem apparent in the studies.

Ginger has other uses including relieving arthritis pain, ulcerative colitis, menstrual discomfort, headaches, fevers from flu and colds, and sore throats. Gastrointestinal problems including heartburn and gas can also be treated with ginger. The muscles of the gastrointestinal tract can be strengthened by the use of garlic. Ginger is also used to treat arthritis, both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. It is thought that garlic can also provide relief for toothaches, but no scientific evidence exists to support this.

Ginger Constituents

Volatile oils in ginger are what cause the taste, smell, and medical effectiveness. About 1-4% of ginger is oil. Ginger contains pungent constituents, shogaols and gingerols, which make it effective for relieving vomiting and nausea. Bisabolene and zingiberene are the aromatic constituents of garlic.

Dosage and Administration

For treating and preventing motion sickness, ingest 500 mg of ginger powder (dried) between 30 to 60 minutes prior to traveling. 500 mg should be taken as needed every 2 to 4 hours. Pregnant women should not use ginger for a prolonged amount of time, but can take as much as 1 gram daily to treat nausea.

There are no recommendations for dosage in children.

Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi is used to treat urinary tract inflammations such as cystitis. It has been used as a healing remedy and an astringent. Uva Ursi has been used the Native Americans to treat urinary diseases and uterine dropsy.

Uva Ursi Benefits and Effects

Cystitis, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones can be treated with uva ursi. The primary compound in uva ursi is arbutin, the hydroquinone derivative. The stomach absorbs it and changes it into a substance with disinfectant, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. Arubutin fights infection, soothes irritation, and reduced inflammation during urination.

Herbs can fight disease and strengthen the body. Unfortunately, herbs can possess chemicals that can react with other herbs, medications, or supplements and produce side effects. Herbs should only be used under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Alkaline urine is necessary for uva ursi to be effective. People taking uva ursi should not eat acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits. Baking soda is a good method of keeping urine alkaline. Do not take uva ursi for extended periods of time lasting longer than one week. Use should not be repeated in excess of five times yearly.

Possible Side Effects

Although considered relatively safe, side effects such as increase heart rate, irritability, insomnia, and vomiting can occur while using uva ursi.

Do not take uva ursi if you are pregnant, nursing, or have high blood pressure.

Comfrey

Comfrey

Comfrey was highly valued by the Greeks as an herbal remedy. In medieval times, comfrey was used to mend fractured bones. Comfrey has many benefits, and can treat many ailments both internal and external. Comfrey has been used as an antibacterial and antifungal, to reduce inflammation, ease pain, stop swelling, and shrink blood vessels.

Comfrey grows in many areas of the world, from Newfoundland to Georgia to Louisiana, and is also found in Europe. It thrives in soft, wet ground and is usually found in meadows or valleys. Comfrey is a big plant and can be up to five feet tall. Its leaves are dark green, long, and oval-shaped, and they grow on the upright, branch at the top of the plant. It blooms from May to September and its flowers are soft, and bell-shaped, and are either purple or yellow. The root of the plant is dark, almost black, on the outside and pale and fleshy on the inside. The root secretes a thick liquid.

Medical Indications and Benefits

Comfrey is an effective remedy for a variety of conditions. It is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and to reduce swelling and inflammation. Comfrey is an anodyne, meaning that it relieves pain; it’s an astringents, meaning that it shrinks blood vessels; it expels mucous; it’s a haemostatic, meaning it can stimulated the clotting of blood; it’s a proliferant, meaning it stimulates cell growth; it’s a refrigerant and can be a mild sedative; and it expedite the healing process. Comfrey is often used to treat maladies like lung disorders, and it can help break up and build-up in the throat. Comfrey is a laxative. It contains a substance which will relieve diarrhea and assist food digestion. These properties make comfrey very valuable to people with bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Studies have also found that comfrey is beneficial in treating ulcers and diabetes. Mucilage, a gum-based thing that is produced by comfrey, keeps the bowel from emptying and represses the amounts of glucose and insulin that peak after meals. It also helps eliminate cholesterol, and the amount of nutrients in the comfrey leads to better general health.

Comfrey as a Food Supplement

Comfrey is an excellent tonic or dietary supplement because it contains many nutrients and beneficial chemicals, including protein, vitamins A and C. Comfrey is also one of only two plants that naturally contain vitamin B12 (alfalfa is the other one). Comfrey has many other B-complex vitamins as well. It also contains mucilaginous fiber, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, sulphur, copper, zinc, selenium, and germanium.

Peppermint

Peppermint

Today peppermint is grown in Europe and the U.S. It was originally found in London in 1750 and is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint. High oil content is found in the stems and leaves of the plant. These parts are used medicinally.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is often used for digestion purposes in oil form. The oil is also used to treat problems including cramps, gastritis, motion sickness, and irritable bowl syndrome.

The gastrointestinal tract is often relieved by peppermint as it relaxes the intestinal wall’s muscles. As it increases saliva, swallowing increases and relieves cramps, improves appetite, and relieves pain from motion sickness, nausea, and irritable bowel syndrome. Muscle spasms from barium enemas, colonoscopy, and endoscopy are restrained by peppermint.

Peppermint is used orally in the form of tablets or tea to relieve respiratory conditions including coughing, colds, acute respiratory difficulties, and viral, fungal, and bacterial infections. To relieve irritated nasal passages, the oil can be inhaled. The oil can be applied to the chest to soothe respiratory discomfort and allergies.

Dosage and Administration

• Oil: inhale or rub on chest to provide respiratory relief.
  
  
• Tea: For 10-15 minutes, place 1 T of dried peppermint leaf in 5-6 oz of boiling water. Strain. Drink up to four times daily.
• Lozenges: read and follow manufacturer’s directions.
• Capsule: Use as a suppository to treat muscle cramping or take 1-2 0.2 ml capsules 2 hours before eating, 3 times daily.

Feverfew

Feverfew

Feverfew is thought to alleviate pain related to menstrual cramping, arthritis, and migraines and is believed to increase appetite and cure asthma. Feverfew contains nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, niacin, and Iron.

Benefits of Feverfew

Historically feverfew has been used to manage and treat fevers as will as lessen inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Research has recently been conducted to find if feverfew can stop migraines. Early evidence is suggesting that feverfew may prevent the severity and occurrence of migraines. However, feverfew does not seem to affect migraines that have already started. Researchers used to think that a single compound found in feverfew was what helped migraine prevention. Now research is supporting several compounds in feverfew combine to prevent migraines. Fresh feverfew is believed to be more effective than dried feverfew.

Dosage and Administration

In the past people consumed feverfew similarly to chewing tobacco, receiving nutrients from chewed leaves. This method can cause stomach and mouth irritation. Today feverfew is usually ingested in the form of extracts, capsules, and tablets made from dried feverfew; these forms do not cause irritation. Various dosages exist; clinical studies used 50 or 100 mg daily to prevent migraines. Up to 250 mg of feverfew can be taken without causing side effects. To prevent migraines, feverfew needs to be ingested for a minimum of four to six weeks.

To make feverfew tea, place one teaspoon of the dried leaves in 5 to 8 ounces of water. Boil for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the leaves from the tea. Drink as much tea as preferred. The tea can also be applied to the skin to work as an insect repellent.

Dandelion Root

Dandelion Root

Traditionally, dandelion has been used to cure breast illnesses, bloating, disorders of the gastrointestinal system, aching joints, and skin conditions. The leaves have large amounts of numerous vitamins, including A, C, D, and B-complexes, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon.

General Information

For many people, dandelions are simply a yard pest. However, dandelions are very rich in nutrients. Traditionally, the roots and leaves of the plant have been used as medicines for breast maladies, bloating, digestive disorders, aching joints, fevers, and skin disorders. The leaves of the plant are very rich in vitamins, including A, C, D, and B-complex. They also have high levels of minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. The most active ingredient in dandelions, eudesmanolide and germacranolide, are found only in dandelions.

Dandelion Uses and Health Benefits

The leaves of the plant are very nutrient-rich, and so they make good supplements for women who are pregnant or elderly women. Dandelion can also be used as a gentle diuretic and can decrease serum cholesterol in some people. The root can be an appetite stimulant and it can treat some digestive disorders. Today, many herbal doctors use dandelion to purify the liver and gallbladder of toxins. Research indicates that dandelions can treat pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders. Dandelion can improve general health, and is beneficial to the kidneys, pancreas, spleen, stomach, and other organs. Dandelion is also recommended for the treatment of tinnitus, tonsillitis, osteoporosis, abscesses, anemia, boils, mammary tumors, cirrhosis, water retention, hepatitis, jaundice, rheumatism, and warts. Dandelion may also be effective in eliminating or averting age spots. Some people also use toasted dandelion root as a healthier alternative to coffee.

Dandelion Benefits also include:

• It is a gentle diuretic
• It can purify the bloodstream and liver, and it can stimulate the manufacture of bile
• It can decrease the amounts of serum cholesterol and uric acid
• It can maximize the performance of the kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and stomach
• It is very beneficial to menopausal women
• It is effective in treating abscesses, anemia, boils, breast tumors, and cirrhosis of the liver
• It may avert the development of age spots or breast cancer

Dandelion Nutritional Content

Lactupicrine, a bitter principle, tannin, inulin and a latexlike substance, polysaccharides, carotene

Side Effects/Interactions

Some individuals experience stomach pain because of hyperacidity. It is safe to use with other drugs.

Ginseng Root and Herb

Ginseng Root and Herb


This famous Chinese herb has been used for over 5,000 years. It was worth more than gold to the Qing Dynasty of ancient China.

Ginseng is used in thousands of formulas to provide vivacity and energy. Ginseng is used more than any other herbal remedy.

Ginseng contains nitrogenous compounds, minerals, vitamins, fat-soluble compounds, and carbohydrate compounds in its stained root. The herb is costly and not easy to produce and takes six years to reach maturity. Researchers today label ginseng as a strong immune system tonic that can uniquely affect the entire body.

Various types of ginseng include Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular and grows in China, Korea, and Japan. Siberian ginseng is native to Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. America ginseng can be found in forested areas from Quebec to Minnesota and south to Georgia and Oklahoma.

American and Asian ginseng, both similar in chemical composition and appearance, are the types recognized for having healing powers. Ginseng grown in North American is often thought of as the most favorable and costly. It is grown and exported from Wisconsin, British Columbia, and Ontario.

Slippery Elm Bark

Slippery Elm Bark

Elm trees are native to the Appalachian Mountains of eastern North America. Skin washes and tea were created by drying elm leaves. Natives ate the inner bark because it is high in carbohydrates and can be easily digested. The inner bark was also used to waterproof canoes, baskets, and places of living. Elm was used by colonists to make pudding, to thicken jelly, to preserve grease, and as a survival food on long trips. It was used medicinally to treat toothaches, skin injuries, gout, arthritis, stomach aches, intestinal worms, and coughs.Uses and IndicationsSlippery elm is used to relieve gastrointestinal conditions, sore throats, ulcers, and respiratory irritations today. External uses include treatment of skin conditions, vaginitis, and hemorrhoids. It can be used as a cough medicine or as a skin smoother and softener.Dosage and Administration500 mg capsules can be takes three times daily by adults. A decoction can be ingested with 4 to 16 ml three times daily, 5 to 20 ml one part to ten parts water taken as needed, or one part slippery elm powder from bark to eight parts water. It can also be added to oatmeal or juice. An infusion is recommended for nutritional supplementation; add 4 g of powdered bark to 500 ml of boiling water and take three times daily. For a poultice, add coarse powdered bark to boiling water. Apply topically.Find the correct dose for a child by using their weight. Herbal dosages are generally calculated for a 150 lb adult. If a child weighs 50 lb, the correct dose is 1/3 of the adult dosage.Do not use herbal product on children before talking to their physician. The same is recommended for adult usage.

Garlic

Garlic



Garlic is grown in many areas throughout the world and is considered by herbalists to be one of the most essential and useful herbs used for medicinal purposes. Various cultures have benefited from using garlic in medicines and foods for centuries.

The Miracle of Garlic

Garlic has been used for many years to prevent health problems including colds, flu, menstrual pain, high blood pressure, coughs, gastrointestinal problems, atherosclerosis, and bronchitis. Garlic has been proven to kill various fungal infections, viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites. Also labeled as an antioxidant, garlic may help prevent certain cancers such as colon cancer and can improve the effectiveness of the immune system.

Garlic is most popular for its effectiveness of cardiovascular wellness. Garlic is effective treating atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, respiratory infections, and triglyceride levels.

Alliin is the primary ingredient found in garlic. This chemical is similar chemically to cysteine, an amino acid containing sulfur, and possesses no odor. After garlic is crushed, alliin is to converted into allicin, the compound that gives garlic its strong smell and numerous health benefits.

Side Effects and Possible Interactions

Garlic supplements are said to have to side effects other than the strong odor.

The combination of using garlic and warfarin may result in a greater risk of bleeding. Large doses of garlic should not be ingested when using warfarin, indomethacin, dipyridamole, aspirin, or other medications that thin the blood.

Dosage and Administration

Garlic is most commonly taken daily in capsule form containing between 1000 and 3000 mg. 0.03 to 0.12 mL of garlic oil can be taken three times a day.

Chamomile

Chamomile


Related to the daisy, chamomile is indigenous to regions of Europe and western Asia. One type of the herb, German chamomile, is the type that is most often used as an herbal remedy. Chamomile had been used for centuries to treat many disorders of the gastrointestinal system. Chamomile is still used today.

Chamomile had been used by numerous ancient peoples, including Rome, Greece, and Egypt, who used chamomile to treat many maladies including fevers, stomach pain, and stroke. Chamomile is very popular in Germany, where it is called “the cure-all cure.” In America, chamomile is also very commonly used to soothe, relax, and aid sleep. German chamomile is also very commonly used to treat problems like bloating, nausea, or stomach pain.

Other benefits include soothing colds, helping wounds or abscesses heal, reducing gum inflammation, treating skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, and treating ulcerative colitis. Chamomile can also be taken as teas, soaks, or ointments to treat children’s maladies like chicken pox, diaper rash, and colic. Generally, chamomile is taken as soon as symptoms manifest themselves. If it is taken for ulcers, heartburn, or other serious problems and symptoms persist, see a professional as soon as possible.

German chamomile consists of 1-2% volatile oils like alpha-bisabolol, alpha-bisabolol oxides A & B, and matricin (usually converted to chamazulene), and other active ingredients like apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, which are flavonoids. All of these make chamomile effective in treating inflammation, muscle pain, spasms, and as a relaxant.

Dosage and Administration

1-2 milliliters of the glycerate type of German chamomile can be used 1-2 times per day as an antispasmodic or anti-inflammatory. When it’s taken for ulcers, stomach disorders, heartburn, or gas, 2-3 grams of German chamomile can be brewed into a tea by steeping in boiling water for 10 minutes. The tea can be taken regularly, up to four times per day.

To soothe lungs in extremely cold temperatures, add a few drops of essential oil to boiling water and breathe deeply.

To treat hemorrhoids, wounds, skin disorders, or insect bites, pour a quarter-pound of dried blossoms into a bath and soak. Or, use alcohol extracts of chamomile in the bath.

Side Effects and Precautions

Chamomile can be used internally or externally, but keep it away from the eyes.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is used to ease the symptoms of problems such as indigestion, stomachache, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, canker sores, sore throat, gingivitis, sore mouth, vaginal irritation, mild conjunctivitis, colds and flu, and earaches.

Description of Goldenseal

Goldenseal is native to forested areas of the eastern United States, mainly in the region of the Ohio River. Today it can still be found there, but is also grown in the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Goldenseal looks similar to the daisy and has a red berry that resembles a raspberry.

Berberine is the compound found in goldenseal that produces medicinal characteristics. This compound can kill various germs and has anti-bacterial effects against parasites including giardia and tapeworms and can fight yeast infections. Berberine is suspected by researchers to have the ability to activate white blood cells, helping them fight infection better. It is considered as an internal and external disinfectant.

Dosage and Usage

In capsule form, 4-6 grams daily is often recommended. 2-4 ml of goldenseal in liquid form can be taken three times each day.

A standardized extract can be taken three times a day in the amount of 250-500 mg per dose. The extract should contain 8-12% alkaloids. Use of this extract should not occur for more than three weeks. Usage should stop for a minimum of two weeks before using again.