HERBAL GUIDE
Alfalfa
is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients,
which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of
trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as
thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and
nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also
a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the
Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid
retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular,
and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its
cleansing qualities.
Aloe
Vera
Aloe vera has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid natural resistance.
Angelica
Root
Angelica
nutritionally supports the digestive and respiratory systems.
Anise
Anise
seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal area.
Barberry
Barberry
nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps
remove toxins from the bowels.
Bayberry
Bayberry
is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to
stop a cold from forming if taken when the first symptoms appear.
Bilberry
Bilberry
(Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or
fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. When British Royal Air Force
pilots During World War II ate Bilberry preserves before night missions and
discovered that their night vision improved afterwards, this herb was
investigated and found to be very beneficial for the eyes. Bilberry works by
improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance
required for good eyesight. It is believed that this property is related to the
high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to prevent
capillary fragility and strengthen the capillaries which nourish the eyes. Other
properties appear to assist in thinning the
blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, also lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides support and enhance the health of collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, thus aiding in the development of strong healthy capillaries that can carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia.
Black
Cohosh
The
early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the
root is reputed to soothe sore throat. They also used the root to help ease
complaints associated with the skeletal system. It is a traditional approach for
many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps, labor and delivery, and
menstruation. When combined with other nervine herbs, it provides excellent
soothing properties. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black
Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing
blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. Studies show it
contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. It has also been shown in
lab experiments (invitro) to inhibit microbial activity.
Black
Currant Oil
Black
currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This
substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as
prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA
assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the
brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Black
Walnut
Black
walnut hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites.
Although this is the primary purpose of this herb, it is also used for poison
oak, ringworm and skin ailments. It has antifungal properties and is also said
to promote bowel regularity.
Blessed
Thistle
Blessed
thistle acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system, as well as
helping to balance the hormones.
Blue
Cohosh
Blue
cohosh nutritionally supports the female reproductive system.
Blue
Vervain
Blue
vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the
body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the
organisms which promote flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic,
which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by
stimulating perspiration.
Burdock
Burdock
is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body
maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and
also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to
promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and
deposits around the joints.
Cascara
Sagrada
Cascara
sagrada is used to help the body relieve constipation. However, it is reputed
not to be habit-forming and also nutritionally supports the stomach, liver,
pancreas, and gallbladder. It is cleansing, as well as nourishing, to the colon.
It is also known to assist with digestion, and help the body to eliminate worms
and parasites.
Catnip
Catnip
nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used also
for digestion. Catnip is also said to help ease symptoms of the flu such as
nausea and diarrhea.
Cat's
Claw
The
highly effective properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw plant
have demonstrated, through centuries of usage dating back to the time of the
ancient Incas, to have a profound and positive influence on the body's defense
system Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru, Austria,
Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage and indicates
that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day
afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known
to help nutritionally support the body's defense, circulatory and
gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.
Cayenne
Cayenne
is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the
body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also
nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of
other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it
helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery
Seed
Celery
seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.
Chamomile
Chamomile
soothes the nerves and stomach. It nourishes the respiratory tract and helps
alleviate discomfort associated with menstrual problems.
Chickweed
Chickweed
helps the body eliminate mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes
the gastrointestinal areas and has soothing properties. It is a natural blood
cleanser, as well as an herb that addresses fat accumulations.
Comfrey
Comfrey
nourishes the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), as well as the
bones and skin. It also strengthens the respiratory system and is considered to
be one of nature's great healers.
Cranberry
Cranberry
contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the
bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading
and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular
basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cyani
Flowers
Cyani
flowers soothe the nervous system and exert a positive influence on tissues of
the eyes.
Damiana
Damiana
is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for nervousness,
weakness and exhaustion. It is said to increase sperm count in the male and to
balance hormones in women.
Dandelion
Dandelion
nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been
used traditionally to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory and
glandular systems.
Devil's
Claw
Devil's
claw is an herb that has been well known in Europe and Africa for hundreds of
years and is gaining popularity in the United States and the entire North
American continent. It is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system.
Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone. It helps the body
lessen the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues.
Dong
Quai
Dong
quai calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It also balances
and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Echinacea
Modern
scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent
to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the immune
system. The active constituents in Echinacea, which are thought to bolster the
body’s defense, are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the
activity of macrophages, white blood cells which destroy bacteria, viruses,
other foreign invaders, and even wayward cells. It also activates the body's
production of interferon, a specific protein which protects cells against the
invasion of viruses.
Elderberry
Flowers
Elderberry
flowers can help rid the body cells of toxins, increase circulation and purify
the blood.
Elecampane
Elecampane
is a natural expectorant and nourishes the respiratory system.
Ephedra
sinica
This
Chinese herb (Ma huang) is nutritionally beneficial for fat reduction and
increased energy. It facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient
metabolic function.
False
Unicorn
False
unicorn is considered a tonic to the reproductive organs and addresses symptoms
of headaches and depression in menopausal women.
Fennel
Fennel
helps detoxify and remove waste material from the body.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek
has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory system,
and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. Fenugreek
dissolves fat and is high in nutrients.
Flax
Seed Oil
Flax
seed oil provides omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids.
Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, as well as the immune and
nervous systems. It also contains some beta carotene (approximately 4,300 IU per
teaspoon) and vitamin E (appproximately 15 IU per teaspoon).
Garcinia
Cambogia
Garcinia
cambogia is a South Asian plant that is nutritionally beneficial in blocking the
production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb since 1969
demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and excess
calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats (low-density
lipoproteins), promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's
production of glycogen, reducing the body's desire for excess food; helping to
nutritionally support the metabolism and burn calories. Human studies indicate
that Garcinia, also known as HCA (hydroxycitric acid) may be especially
effective when combined with chromium and L-carnitine.
Garlic
Garlic
provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in
supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining
normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease.
Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Gentian
Root
Gentian
Root nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the appetite,
nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas, stomach
and kidneys.
Ginger
Ginger
root is nourishing to the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body to
eliminate wastes through the skin. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a
catalyst for other herbs, to increase their effectiveness. It helps the body
relieve congestion.
Ginkgo
biloba
Ginkgo
biloba is one of the most promising and highly studied natural botanicals.
Current interest in ginkgo began in the Orient, where it has long been valued
for its effects on the challenges of aging. Ginkgo is effective in nutritionally
supporting the body's systems, especially through its antioxidant properties.
This is especially important as we grow older. Aging is a process of
deterioration. The hypothesis that free radicals (reactive molecules) in the
body are a direct cause of this deterioration is gaining widespread acceptance.
Recently, the benefits of antioxidant vitamins in reducing free radicals in the
the body have been widely published. Ginkgo is a very potent free radical
scavenger. Eliminating free radicals is important in
preserving
youthfulness. If we slow down the deterioration of our body systems, we can
enjoy fitness and vitality all through our lives.
Ginseng
Ginseng
is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy. It
nourishes the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina.
Golden
Seal
Golden
seal is used both internally and externally to help the body fight infections
with its nutritional properties. It helps the body soothe inflammations of the
mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb especially nourishes the
liver, glandular and respiratory systems. Golden seal helps cleanse the system
of foreign organisms.
Gotu
Kola
Gotu
kola nourishes the nervous system, especially the brain. It is said to help
improve memory and enhance vitality throughout the body. This herb is known for
helping the body to balance blood pressure levels and assist in the healing of
wounds. Gotu Kola is known in India as a "longevity" herb.
Hawthorn
Berries
Hawthorn
is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory
system, particularly the heart. It has been used for centuries with great
success, especially in Europe. Even today it remains a favorite among herbalists
as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure and
circulation. When used on a regular, long-term basis hawthorn exerts a continued
protection to the cardiovascular system.
Hops
Hops
helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is rich in nutrients that nourish
the nervous system. The herbalist Culpeper said, "It opens obstructions of
the liver and spleen, cleanses the blood, loosens the belly, cleanses the veins
from gravel and provokes urine." This plant is considered both a tonic and
relaxant.
Horehound
Root
Horehound
root is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant.
Horsetail
Horsetail
is rich in "beauty" nutrients that nourish the nails, skin, hair,
bones and the body's connective tissue. It is also benefits the glands and
urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply
of nutrients.
Ho
Shou Wu
Ho
shou wu (Fo-Ti) is fabled in Asian history to restore the original color of
graying hair. It nourishes the glandular, nervous and skeletal systems. This
herb is reputed to enhance the health of the liver and kidneys. The properties
of Ho Shou Wu are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng. It
is known to help improve health, stamina and resistance to diseases.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea
has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate
its function. This plant contains alkaloids which help soothe the body,
especially in the bladder and kidney areas. Hydrangea also works like a natural
inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas.
Hyssop
Hyssop
has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for afflictions of the
respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs.
Irish
Moss
Irish
moss is high in nutrients and nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and
kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland.
Juniper
Berry
Juniper
berries strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess water
and toxins.
Kava
Kava
Kava
kava soothes the nerves. Relaxes the mind and acts as a mood elevator for stress
relief and relaxation. The herb is helpful for many nervous disorders including
anxiety and depression.
Kelp
Kelp
contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid
and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps
balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also
known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution
levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial
for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves,
brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid
which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lady
Slipper
Lady
slipper is a member of the orchid family. This delicate flower contains in its
root many nervine properties.
Licorice
Licorice
root nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart
and spleen. This herb can soothe irritated mucous membranes and help the body
get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties. Licorice Root has
properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands
and helps the body cope with stress.
Lobelia
Lobelia
has been traditionally revered for its soothing properties that nourish the
nervous system. Lobelia also enhances the function of the respiratory system and
has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in preparations designed to lessen
one's desire for nicotine.
Mandrake
Mandrake
works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. It exerts a
powerful influence on the glands.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow
has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory and
gastrointestinal systems.
Milk
Thistle
Milk
thistle extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals
and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract contains
silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the active
ingredient of milk thistle.
Mullein
Mullein
has been referred to as a "natural wonder herb" which soothes the
lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also nourishes
the lymphatic and glandular systems. Mullein can help remove mucus from the
system.
Myrrh
Traditionally,
the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for soothing muscles and
wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucous membranes with its cleansing effects. The
extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a comforting gargle for a
scratchy throat.
Noni
The
noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples
to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and
structural systems.
Oatstraw
Oatstraw
contains high amounts of bone-building materials.
Papaya
Papaya
contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.
Parsley
Parsley
is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
Pau
d'Arco
Pau
d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the body's
defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and
infections.
Passionflower
Passionflower
has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness by
nourishing the nervous system. Passionflower has been traditionally used in both
herbal and homeopathic medicine for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma
and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments show that passicol, an
alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds, yeasts, and bacteria.
Peppermint
Peppermint
calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It comforts the
stomach and nourishes the salivary glands to help with digestion. It has
astringent properties and soothes the nervous system.
Periwinkle
Periwinkle
helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced circulation.
Pippali
Fruit
Pippali
fruit is a pepper which has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine to
address digestive disorders and obesity.
Prickly
Ash
Prickly
Ash nourishes and enhances circulation throughout the entire body.
Queen
of the Meadow
Queen
of the Meadow is traditionally valued to help heal strains, sprains, and the
associated aches. It nourishes the ligaments and tendons, and assists in
restoring their normal function. It helps release inorganic deposits from the
joints and tissues.
Raspberry
Leaf
Red
raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It
nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps
strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its
soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract.
Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body so that
diarrhea or constipation can be relieved.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb
can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
Safflower
The
flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder and
respiratory system. Safflower helps balance cholesterol in the body, and assists
in eliminating excessive uric acid. It helps break up phlegm and soothes the
digestive system.
Sage
Sage
helps check excessive mucus in the body.
Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla
contains substances which are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the
female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and
balance the glandular system.
Saw
Palmetto
Saw
palmetto berry is said to nourish glandular tissue, and has been used by
herbalists and others to nutritionally support the prostate gland.
Schizandra
Chinensis
Schizandra
chinensis helps the body adapt to stress and nourishes the nervous system.
Scullcap
Scullcap
is one of the most powerful herbs to help you get a better night's sleep. It
calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood pressure.
Senna
Senna
assists in expelling waste from the intestines and kills worms.
Siberian
Ginseng
Siberian
ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an
"adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation
that normally would alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect
on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body energy to overcome
stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng may help
reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance the immune
system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells.
Slippery
Elm
Slippery
elm can help the body eliminate mucus from the lungs and strengthen the
gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. It soothes irritated tissues and helps
nourish and strengthen the body.
Squaw
Vine
Squaw
vine strengthens the uterus, and helps relieve congestion there and in the
ovaries. It may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections.
Suma
Suma
is an adaptogen herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and acts as
a tonic to the entire system. By enhancing the body's immune system, Suma aids
in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Suma contains significant amounts
of Germanium, a trace mineral which stimulates the immune system and helps
promote oxygen flow to cells. It also contains "allantoin", a
substance which assists in healing wounds. Some of Suma's other beneficial
nutrients include vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and the natural
plant hormones sitosterol and stigmasterol. These phytochemicals nourish the
circulatory and glandular systems. The Japanese investigated Suma in trials
against specific types of tumor cells The researchers discovered that six
saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E, and F are the unique chemicals
present in Suma that inhibit tumor cell growth. Brazilian researchers have found
that Suma is both safe and effective for altered-immune disorders.
Thyme
Thyme
is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic, with healing powers. It
is said to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal disturbances.
Uva
Ursi
Uva
ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water.
Valerian
Valerian
root nourishes the nervous system and has soothing properties. Valerian is a
safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe rattled nerves and assists the
body in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to give
calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels.
.
White
Oak
White
oak bark is a marvelous herb to help nourish and strengthen injured areas of the
body. It has been used successfully for many applications, including fortifying
blood vessels and tissues. White Oak has astringent properties, and it also
soothes the throat.
White
Willow
White
willow benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works like a
mild and natural analgesic which is gentle on the stomach.
Wild
Cherry Bark
Wild
Cherry Bark is considered to be a very useful expectorant.
Wild
Yam
Wild
yam has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote
glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as
phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes
the digestive system and the nerves.
Wood
Betony
Wood
betony works well for both children and adults. It is said to help migraine
headaches.
Wormwood
Wormwood
helps eliminate worms and parasites.
Yellow
Dock Root
Yellow
dock root is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the
skin, stimulates bile production, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies
the blood.
Yerba
Santa
Yerba santa helps the body expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is known as a blood purifier and strengthener of the digestive system.
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Nothing
stated here should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a health
problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual
guidance for specific health problems. This page is for informational and
educational purposes only, and is simply a collection of information in the
public domain. Information conveyed herein is based on pharmacological and other
records - both ancient and modern. No claims whatsoever can be made as to the
specific benefits accruing from the use of any herb or nutrients.