Pokok Emas Cotek,Mas Cotek:Ficus Deltoidea

Golden Tree Cotek or Mas Cotek is a kind of herbs and plants used in the medical field Malays. In Malay medical cotek mas tree is divided into male cotek mas (small leaves) and female (large leaves).

Mas cotek or in scientific language, Ficus deltoidea a plant that is now receiving attention, especially among traditional medical practitioners. Besides Tongkat Ali and Fatima Masjid, Mas cotek known for their nutritional value are available to treat many diseases and is good for health care.

Name cotek Mas is a popular local names on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. In Sabah and Sarawak, the Borneo Islands, this plant is known as "narrow-narrow '. There is also the tribe in Sabah is called as 'agoluran'. In Indonesia, this plant is called 'tabat Prix' and a few names in other areas such as figs jelatih, a single fig, elephant ears fires and fires monkey ears. In Africa, it is known as 'Kangkalibang'. Despite this, the name of Mas cotek is the most popular name and was known when compared with the local names of others.

 In Malaysia, scientists have identified that there are more than 80 plant species belongs to the family of Ficus deltoidea. Plant also known as the fig is one species of Ficus deltoidea family. Ficus deltoidea Jack or Mistleteo fig are among the species scientifically classified and it belongs to the family Moraceae
    Name given as dowry cotek there tiny spots on the surface of the gold-leaf on each sheet. While the fruit is a pink dot. Seeds are spread by birds that eat its fruit. Traditionally mas cotek can be categorized into:

a) Mas cotek male
b) Mas cotek female

The most obvious differences between species can be identified cotek mas mas cotek male and female species is in form of leaves. Cotek mas tree leaves of the male has a small, tapered, thin and light, while the back leaf is colored spots. In general, the leaves have a red dot, but there are leaves with two and three red dots.
            For cotek mas tree has the appearance of the female is the larger leaves and many leaves are oval and round and thicker than the male species. Similar to the male species cotek mas, mas cotek female leaves also have spots on the back of the leaves. Color dots on the leaves of the female is colored red instead of black. Cotek gold veins more obvious female on the upper surface of leaves compared with green males.



Study that was done by the University of Malaya (UM) and the Agricultural Research Institute of Malaysia (MARDI) plant consists of four active ingredients needed body:

   1. Flavonoids
          * A powerful anti-oxidants to help the healthy circulation mengekalan
          * Acting as an anti-inflammatory and anti-Rival
   2. Tannis
          * Tighten the loose tissue, drain excess water secretion (diarrhea are) and protect the damaged tissue, such as eczema or burns
   3. Triterpenoids
          * Helps remove and remove phlegm and help absorb nutrients
   4. Phenols
          * Helps to reduce and eliminate swelling and acts as an antiseptic



  Studies show that five active ingredient that is required by the human body contained in the mas cotek are flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, proanthocyanins and phenols. These materials are identified able to help the mind in the process of remembering and can concentrate and can treat the problem of lack of concentration. It is also able to launch the effectiveness of Vitamin C in anti-oxidants, controlling nitrite oxide and blood circulation, regulate the oxidation of low density lipoprotein (LDL), known as bad cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and reduce high blood pressure.


Almost all components Cotek Mas tree from the root, stem, leaves and fruit contain high medicinal value. So all the parts may be dried and used / applied in the form of herbal tea.

Mahkota Dewa (Phaleria macrocarpa)

Tree Mahkota Dewa (Phaleria macrocarpa) is known as one of the medicinal plants in Indonesia. Originally from Papua / Irian Jaya.

Phaleria contain several active substances such as:

     * Alkaloids, is detoxification which can neutralize toxins in the body
     * Saponin, which is useful as:
           o The source of anti-bacterial and anti-virus
           o enhance the immune system
           o enhance the vitality
           o reduce blood sugar levels
           o reduce blood clotting
     * Flavonoids
           o blood circulation throughout the body and prevent blockages in blood vessels
           o reduce the cholesterol content of fat and reduce penumbunan on blood vessel walls
           o reduce the levels of risk of coronary heart disease
           o contains anti-inflammatory (anti-inflammatory)
           o act as anti-oxidants
           o help to reduce pain if there is bleeding or swelling
     * Polyphenols
           o serve as an anti-histamine (allergy)

Plants or trees crown the god is often planted as shade. The size is not too big to reach 3 meters high, has bright red fruit that grows from the main trunk to the branches.

To extend the shelf life Phaleria, preservation can be done in several ways including refrigeration, canning, and drying. Drying is done at Phaleria aims to reduce the water content in the material, so the remaining water can not be used as a medium for microbial life destroyer that is in such materials, in other words, may prolong the shelf life of these Phaleria. The proper drying conditions will menentukn drying high quality results. 

Burdock

Burdock is a plant that is related to the daisy family. It is also closely related to Echinacea, Dandelion, and Feverfew. Burdock is an herb but it is one that has been much neglected when it comes to getting attention. Back in ancient times the Greeks used the roots, the seeds, and the greens and used them for healing purposes. Throughout the Middle Ages Burdock was used for both food and medicine.

Today, Burdock is still used for such things as easing liver problems and digestive disorders. It was also found to be very effective for cleansing the skin for problems such as acne and also to assist in digestive problems. To this day throughout Europe the stalk and the greens are still eaten because they hold such valuable nutrition and vitamin values.

As more and more research is being done on Burdock many new and interesting discoveries are cropping up. A relationship is being examined between Burdock and its anti fungal and anti bacterial properties, and even more important it is showing signs of possibly being able to fight against tumors and could be a cancer fighting agent as well. Research has shown that since many of the cancer causing compounds are in almost all foods which are then eaten and stored in the human fat tissues that Burdock might very well be of help in fighting cancer because of the role that it can play in depleting these mutagens.

Burdock is also very helpful in strengthening the immune system when it has become weakened by environmental factors. When mixed with other herbs such as Dandelion and Ginger it can be a very powerful blood purifier. The most unique fact about Burdock is that it has a very high amount of inulin which is a natural occurring chemical within the body that mimics actions of insulin. Because of this, Burdock has been successful in helping combat hypoglycemia and pre diabetes conditions.

If you look for Burdock in the market you may find it called gobo instead as that is what some refer to it as. It is often combined with other vegetables or added to Tofu. Some boil Burdock while others sauté or deep fry it. Many have said it might not be such a good idea to look at Burdock before you eat it because you might change your mind about taking a bite.

It looks thick, dark, and woody but indeed the opposite is true when it comes to the taste. Burdock is well recognized as a health food because it has low calorie content and a high fiber intake. It is also loaded with potassium, iron, and calcium. People claim that Burdock tastes like nothing else. In other words it has a taste all of its own.

The best description that people can agree on when it comes to the flavor of Burdock is that it is sweet yet earthy, with a tender and crisp texture. It is often added to stews, soups, and stir fries. In the form of food, Burdock is highly nutritional and full of vitamins but in retrospect Burdock is also an effective herb for bringing the body back into balance.

Belladonna

Image by AnneTanne via FlickrBelladonna is not an herb that you are going to want to stock your pantry with. While it has its benefits, this is an herb that can be very dangerous and sometimes even fatal. It has some medicinal properties to it and has an interesting history but it can be very dangerous. The nickname "deadly nightshade" is a good clue of its potency. There is however a tincture that comes from this plant that is used for medicinal purposes. Belladonna is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia Minor but is now grown quite often in the United States, Europe, and India. When the plant is in full bloom the plant is harvested and then dried for use.

The most important contribution from Belladonna is atropine which is an important agent that is useful in dilating the pupils of the eye. This has proven to be very beneficial. Even small doses of atropine can cause the heart rate to increase. Some cough syrups are known to contain atropine and are used for bronchitis and whooping cough. Further it is used to soothe the stomach lining prior to an anesthetic being administered and also for peptic ulcers.

Belladonna goes by many different names but has been used for over 500 years. While growing in the wild, which belladonna commonly does, a slight dose can be fatal. In the earliest times when Belladonna was first used it was cosmetic purposes. Women felt that if they used it to dilate their pupils that they would look more sexy and alluring. That is why the name Belladonna means "beautiful lady" in Italian. Yet, it is still used in many eye doctors' offices across the country to this day.

Belladonna also has other great benefits for purposes of what it is used for today as it has the ability to dry up bodily fluids such as breast milk, saliva, perspiration, and mucous. The alkaloids in Belladonna are used for many conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders such as colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, diarrhea, and peptic ulcer. It also works for asthma, excessive sweating, excessive nighttime urination and incontinence, headaches and migraines, muscle pains and spasms, motion sickness, Parkinson's disease, and biliary colic.

Quite often Belladonna is used as homeopathic remedies such as the common cold, earaches, fever, menstrual cramps, sunstroke, toothaches, headaches, sore throats, and boils. How the patient ingests and how much they ingest is determined by a few various factors such as their symptoms, mood, and overall temperament. When Belladonna is administered for homeopathic use it is highly diluted because of the toxicity level of it.

No one should ever use Belladonna as a self help measure and it should only be taken under the care of a qualified doctor. The doses given of Belladonna are always in very low doses. When Belladonna is prescribed it is either added to sugar pellets or mixed with other types of drugs and is available by prescription only. So while it is clear that Belladonna is an extremely dangerous herb it is also very beneficial when used correctly.

Feel Good With Tongkat Ali Extract

When we look at male and female sexual dysfunction, we see several similarities. Both sexes react with difficulty to stress anxiety and over-tiredness. These conditions weigh heavily on sexual performance and the enjoyment of sexual partnerships.

Another factor that weighs heavily on sexual partnerships is the biological fact that women reach their sexual peak at about aged 34, while men peak around age 20. This imbalance can cause some friction between sexual partnerships.

In any case, the male's ability to maintain strong sexual performances lessens more each year after 40. Meanwhile, both sexes begin to produce less and less of the most important sex hormone, testosterone, as they age.

To compensate for this lack of testosterone, most males follow their physician's advice and turn to PDE-5 inhibitors Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. These drugs have mixed results. Sixty-five to seventy percent of users report improved abilities to achieve erections. However, the PDE-5's do not increase testosterone. Thus, the PDE-5's do not increase sex drive or help sexual performance.

As Viagra executives have said, the ability to achieve an erection does not necessarily mean a good sexual performance will follow. Of course, there is also the question of timing. Viagra should be taken about one hour prior to sex. This scheduling may not be to your partner's liking. Then again, PDE-5's do not work well with certain foods and definitely do not work well when alcohol is ingested.

The PDE-5's all share similar discomforting side effects like blurred vision, headaches and stomachaches. These side effects and the unpredictable nature of the drugs cause a high level of dissatisfaction. 50 percent of Viagra users do not refill their prescriptions.

For women, the lack of testosterone causes lack of desire. It also prevents enjoyable stimulation and vaginal excitement. More and more women are turning to herbal remedies.

For men and women, your sexual performances and enjoyment can be easily improved. Try the Tongkat Ali Extract that is derived from the mature roots of the Eurycoma Longifolia trees found in the jungles of Southeast Asia.

The tablets, powder or capsule forms of the herbal extract will definitely increase your testosterone level, raise your libido and your self-esteem. Sex can once again be fun and exciting.

Imagine sex with stimulated erogenous zones, strong, powerful erections and long lasting thoroughly enjoyable orgasms. You can attain these goals and you do not need a physician to tell you Tongkat Ali works. Do your research and order the popular, all-natural ancient remedies through a reliable, online provider.

For sexual dysfunction, alternative medicines work. Your physician may not be informed about the newest trends in sexual dysfunction treatments, but Dr. Mehmet Oz certainly is. Check out the videos and reports of his national television show in which the famous doctor introduced the world's most powerful natural herbal extract. Tongkat Ali will boost your testosterone and your sexual performance right along with it.


Find out how tongkat ali can improve your life. For the best deals on tongkat ali, visit IndonesiaTongkatAli.com now!

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Male Sexual Wellness - 10 of the Worlds Best Natural Libido Boosters

Image by oceandesetoiles via Flickr

Here we are going to look at male sexual wellness and boosting libido with natural supplements and we have selected 10 of the best from all over the world.

Today, many companies are not just selling one natural libido booster - but combining several into one pill for great potency. Here are ten of the most popular natural libido boosters on the planet.

1. Ashwagandha

Known as "Indian Ginseng," Ashwagandha provides nutritional benefits which energize the body and act as an anti aging supplement. It also helps minimize the negative effects of stress and promotes sexual and reproductive balance.

2. Catuaba Bark

Catuaba comes from South America and the Amazon rain forest and is Brazils most famous aphrodisiac. Catuaba has been used in Brazil for thousands of years to treat sexual impotency and increase sexual desire.

3. Cnidium

Cnidium is found in china and the plant seeds contain several compounds including coumarins, osthol, imperatorin, glucides and hepatoprotective sesquiterpenes. Cnidium seeds are one of the most effective natural remedy to increase sex drive, boost libido and to treat impotence and erectile dysfunction. It works a bit like the blue pill to increase nitric oxide release and inhibit PDE-5, enabling an erection to be harder and maintained for longer.

4. Epimedium Grandiflorum Extract - "Horny Goat Weed"

For thousands of years, horny goat weed has been used in China as a medicinal herb in reproductive tonics for boosting libido and treating impotence.

Horny goat weed works as an adaptogen by increasing levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine when they are low-promoting energy-but reduces cortisol levels when they are elevated (an anti-stress effect). High stress conditions and increased cortisol levels cause fatigue and tiredness and this leads to loss of libido. Horny goat weed also works to restore of low levels of testosterone and the thyroid hormone to normal, improving sex drive.

Horny goat weed also contains a variety of flavonoids. One prominent flavonoid is icariin, which is a cGMP-specific PDE5 inhibitor like synthetic drugs but does it naturally.

5. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow and oxygen throughout the body, while its anti-oxidant action maintains healthy tissues, protects blood vessels and reduces arteriosclerotic lesions. Ginkgo increases the half-life of the endothelium relaxation factor, which helps maintain a long erection with an increased flow of blood.

6. Ginseng

Ginseng improves physical and mental energy, stamina, strength, alertness and concentration. As an adaptogen, it combats physical and emotional stress and fatigue. It has a normalizing effect on hormone imbalances in the body, boosts metabolic rate and increases blood flow to the genitals.

7. Maca Root Extract

The Inca Warriors of South America ate maca to increase their strength and stamina before fighting rival tribes. In South America it is used as a general nutrient to increase libido and maintain reproductive health.

Its effect is due to sterols which act on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, increasing hormone levels which, leads to increased energy and a stronger libido.

8. Mucuna Pruriens Extract

In 2002, a U.S. patent was filed on the use of mucuna pruriens to stimulate the release of growth hormone in humans.

The high levels of l-dopa present in the mucuna seed are converted to dopamine which stimulates the release of growth hormones by the pituitary gland.

L-dopa and dopamine are also effective inhibitors of prolactin. Increased levels of prolactin are thought to be responsible for up 80% of erection failures.

9. Tongkat Ali Extract (Eurycoma longfolia)

The root of the Eurycoma longifolia tree has been used for thousands of years as a general body tonic - to combat fatigue, loss of sexual desire, and impotence. It contains superoxide dimutase, an anti-oxidant enzyme that inhibits the chain reaction of free radicals. The bioactive Glygopeptide compounds in Tongkat ali were clinically tested and believed to increase free testosterone and decrease SHBG levels.

Both the above help a mans erection ability, general performance and sex drive. Tongakat ali also increases sperm count, sperm size and motility.

10. Tribulus Terrestris Extract

Tibulus can improve desire, performance, and increase sexual energy.

Tribulus is also an excellent circulatory system tonic and can help build muscle and strength, as well as reduce muscle recovery time.

Clinical studies on the sexual activity-enhancing effect of tribulus have shown the herb to contain protodioscin, a saponin constituent, improving libido in men with impotence due to various causes and sperm motility.

Natural libido increase

The above have been used for thousands of years to help male sexual wellness and increase libido and they work not just to increase sexual activity but promote overall health to.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Monica_Hendrix

Thyme

Image via WikipediaThyme is a very popular and well known culinary herb. It is a very decorative plant while it is growing and is also very easy to grow as well but be prepared because bees just love Thyme. Many people use Thyme in stews, salads, meats, soups, and vegetables. Thyme is a very common household herb and is a member of the mint family. The plant is very aromatic and comes in many varieties. Thyme is a frequently used herb in many fish dishes. Oddly enough as much as honey bees love to suck the nectar from the Thyme plant is as much as other insects loathe it. Some people have been known to make a mist spray of Thyme and water and use it as a bug repellent.

Various forms of Thyme are available year round but many people prefer to grow their own. Nothing beats the smell and taste of fresh Thyme as long as you know to pick it just as the flowers appear. Once fresh Thyme is harvested it should be stored in either a plastic bag in the crisper or stood straight up in a glass of water on the shelf in the refrigerator for easy access.

The bad news, fresh Thyme does not have a very long shelf life, you will be lucky if it last a week. If you have selected fresh Thyme and decide to dry it then simply hang it upside down in a warm and dry atmosphere for about a week to ten days. Then you can crumble it into a powdery form and stored in a sealed dark container for no more than six months. You want to eliminate the stems as they have a tendency to have a woody taste to them.

Thyme has some medicinal purposes as well as an antiseptic, an expectorant, and deodorant properties as well. When combined with fatty meats Thyme has been known to aid in digestion too, especially with lamb, pork, and duck. Herbal medicine has used Thyme for various things such as extracts, teas, compresses, for baths, and for gargles. More modern medicine has chimed in and verified that Thyme just might strengthen the immune system.

Distilled Thyme oils have been used for the commercial use of antiseptics, toothpaste, mouthwash, gargle, hair conditioner, dandruff shampoo, potpourri, and insect repellant. It is also used in the production of certain expectorants that are prescribed for whooping cough and bronchitis. Thyme has also been used in part as an aphrodisiac and in aromatherapy oils as well.

If by some chance you are in the middle of cooking recipes that calls for Thyme and you find that you are out do not fret, it is said that you can use a pinch of oregano as a substitute if you have to. Thyme is very often used when cooking European cuisine but is essential for the correct preparation of French foods as it has that faint lemony taste to it. It has also been said that Thyme is one of the only herbs that a cook can not over season with because the flavor is so mild. Thyme is a primary spice that everyone should have stocked in their pantry.

Tarragon

Tarragon is a relative to the Sunflower family and there are two different breeds of Tarragon, Russian and French. However, when you go shopping and pick up some Tarragon for your pantry or a favorite recipe it is almost guaranteed that you have just selected the dried leaves of the Tarragon plant because that is what is most often used and sold for commercial purposes.

Tarragon has a somewhat bittersweet flavor to it, almost resembling anise with that hint of licorice flavor to it. Tarragon does not have a long history behind it like most of the other herbs as it was not brought into the Unites States until the 19th century. It does have some mention about being used in England much before that time though. Traditionally, Tarragon is used to flavor such things as vinegar, relishes, pickles, mustard, and other various sauces.

The word Tarragon is derived from the French word which means "little dragon." There are two beliefs about how this nickname came about; one is because back in early times it was thought that Tarragon had the ability to cure venomous snake bites. Other thought it got this name because of the distinct roots that the Tarragon plant has that quite clearly resemble that of a serpent.

However, sometime as early as the 13th century Tarragon became widely used for seasoning vegetables, inducing sleep, and as a breath freshener. Not until the 16th century did Tarragon become more widely known. The Tarragon that is sold in the US today is not true Tarragon but rather Russian Tarragon which is not nearly the same. True Tarragon will be called French Tarragon and if you want to be sure that is what you are getting it is best to grow your own.

It is not recommended to use dried Tarragon because all of the active oils have been dried out. It is best to use fresh Tarragon which needs to be used rather sparingly because of its pungent taste. If you have grown the Tarragon yourself and have harvested it then put it in a Ziploc bag and stick it in the freezer. When it is time to use it there is no need to defrost it but remember that heat intensifies the flavor of Tarragon. If you have ever had Béarnaise Sauce, you should have recognized that Tarragon is the main ingredient in it.

Tarragon is used when preparing many sauces. In a pinch it has been said that a substitute could be chervil, a dash of fennel seed, or anise but the flavor will not be the same.

Many have claimed that Tarragon works well to induce appetite and the root of Tarragon was once used to cure toothaches. It is linked to medicinal uses for digestive aid and also for the prevention of heart disease. It can be used to induce menstruation and can be used as a sale substitute for people with high blood pressure. Further medicinal purposes include use for hyperactivity depression, and as an anti bacterial aid for cuts and abrasions.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a relative to the mint family and the name is derived from its Latin origin to mean "dew of the sea." Rosemary is very common in Mediterranean cuisine and has somewhat of a bitter astringent taste to it. While that is true it compliments oily foods very nicely. A tisane can be made from the Rosemary leaves and that is also very popular when cooking.

First it is burned and then added to a BBQ to flavor various foods. Sage, unlike many other herbs has a high nutritional value to it and is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin B-6 and is more nutritional in its dried form rather than fresh. Rosemary should be harvested just as you are going to use it because it truly loses its flavor once dried. Gardner's swear that if you plant some Rosemary plants in and around your garden, the Rosemary will fend off moths, beetles, and carrot flies.

Older Europeans loved Rosemary and believed that it improved memory and also used it as a symbol of remembrance and was often tossed into fresh graves before they were buried over. Traditionally it has been said that Rosemary, left untrimmed, would grow for thirty three years where it will reach the height of Christ when he was crucified. Many would also place sprigs of Rosemary underneath their pillows to ward of evil and nightmares. Often the wood that comes from the stems of the Rosemary plant was used to make musical instruments. Remember that people back then liked to utilize every piece of something as not to waste. Today, many wreaths are made from Rosemary as a symbol of remembrance.

Today, Rosemary is still used for many things besides cooking as it is in potpourris, air fresheners, shampoos, and cosmetics. There has also been scientific evidence that Rosemary works very well as a memory stimulant. Rosemary has also shown some cancer prevention properties in animals. But further Rosemary has shown a strong relationship in relaxing muscles, and to soothe stomach upset as well as menstrual cramps. The main thing to remember when using Rosemary for this purpose is that if you use too much it can actually cause a counter effect.

When made into a tea it is ingested for calming nerves and anxiety and as an antiseptic. Rosemary when used as a tea many people find to taste very good. Making the tea from Rosemary is quite simple actually, just pour boiling water over the leaves and steep for 10-15 minutes. A little sugar can be added by you should not add any cream. A few sprigs can be added to oils and vinegars to flavor the products which add a nice taste for cooking.

When used cosmetically it can lighten and tone human hair and when mixed with equal parts of shampoo it has been known to strengthen hair too. It also makes for a nice additive in hot bath water. Rosemary is still used quite commonly today however more so for cooking than anything else.

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Turmeric

Image via WikipediaTurmeric is a spice that gives flavor and yellow color to the curry powder and mustard. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a member of the ginger family and is used for healing for quite some time already. The healing properties can be found in the plant’s fingerlike stalk. The stalk is scalded and dried fro herbal medicine. This same part is used to flavor, color and preserve foods.

In India and in other parts of China, turmeric has been used to treat indigestion and several other ailments for centuries. It was mainly used as a spice in other parts of the world until 1970s. It was then that researchers discovered that it contains curcuminoids which are compounds that fight inflammation. It was also found that turmeric is rich in antioxidants. It also shows potentials in reducing cholesterol levels and combating artherosclerosis which builds up fatty deposits in the arteries and can lead to heart attack. Preliminary studies indicate that turmeric could possibly block the progress of multiple sclerosis (MS).

The specific health benefits one can derived from turmeric include:

Ø It relieves carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and joint inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory compounds.
Ø It eases indigestion, excess gas (flatulence), bloating and other mild upset stomach symptoms. This is because the curcumin in tumeric combats bacteria that are responsible for infectious diarrhea.
Ø It prevents cancer. Being an antidoxidant, turmeric prevents damage to cells in turn preventing some types of cancer such as breast, skin, colon and lymphoma.

Turmeric comes in different formulations of tincture, tablet, powder, ointment, lotion, liquid, dried herb/tea, cream and capsule. Formulations that can be taken internally are capsules, fresh juice, boiled tea made from powder and tinctures. Topical formulations are creams, lotions, pastes and ointments. Look for turmeric that contains 95% curcumin since this is effective in treating specific ailment. In order to get the medicinal dose of 1.2 g/day of curcumin, you need to consume 100 grams of turmeric as culinary spice.

To treat carpal tunnel syndrome, indigestion, excess gas and other inflammatory and GI-related ailments, take 400 to 600 mg capsule three times a day. Or, you can take ½ to 1 teaspoon of liquid extract and mixed it with ½ cup of water three times a day. Continue this treatment until symptoms are gone. If you noticed no improvement after a week of use, then discontinue turmeric. To prevent cancer, use turmeric as a spice daily or sip turmeric tea. As of the moment, there are no solid evidences to support the claim that it can prevent cancer.

Once symptoms of inflammation improve, reduce the daily dose of turmeric into half. And if symptoms are gone, stop using the herb. Turmeric is not well absorbed when taken orally so look for extracts that combine it with bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme found in pineapples. Bromelain will make it easier for the body to absorb active compounds of turmeric.



Turmeric due to its curcumin content could interfere with the proper functioning of breast cancer chemotherapy medicine. Ask your doctor if you are taking chemotherapy drugs such as mechlorethamine, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. If you have bile duct blockage or blood clotting disorder, do not take turmeric as this could affect these conditions. If you have gallstones or gallbladder problems, do not use turmeric as this could have harmful effects. Prolonged use of turmeric can cause stomach upset and other gastrointestinal upsets.

Basil

Image via WikipediaOriginally, Basil was not the most popular herb in the bunch. Actually there were some who simply hated it, mainly the ancient people. The name basil means "be fragrant" but still various cultures battled with a love hate relationship over basil. Americans and Romans loved it while Hindus plant it in their homes as a sign of happiness. On the contrary it was the Greeks who despised it most but those from India and Persia were not too fond of it either. One place that took a special liking to Basil was Italy and to this day not many people prepare a classic pasta sauce without the Basil.



To this day basil and tomato sauce have formed somewhat of a marriage almost globally. Basil is very easy to grow as long as the temperature does not fall below 50 degrees and is in full sunshine. It is popularly used both in the fresh form as well as the dried. A rare known fact about Basil is that the longer it simmers in a dish the more the flavor intensifies. This makes sense as to why people simmer their pasta sauces for so long, to bring out all of the rich herb flavors. Normally in pasta sauces Basil is used in combination with Oregano. However, Basil is not just used for pasta or tomato sauce, it is also used for flavoring fish, vegetables, meats, and soups.

If you decide to grow an herb garden, you can thank the Basil plants for keeping the flies away as flies are also part of the group that does not care for Basil. Another interesting fact about Basil is that it was considered a royal herb with a strong association pertaining to love. Basil had a relationship with how men of a much earlier time planned on proposing to their fair maidens. The man would bring a branch of Basil and if the woman accepted his gift she silently agreed to love him and be faithful to him for eternity.

Basil is related to the Mint family and just knowing that should give you a good idea that it will have many medicinal uses as well. Right away most people associate anything mint with aiding the digestive system and also for its anti gas properties. Herbalists use Basil quite commonly for health ailments such as stomach cramps, vomiting, constipation, headaches and anxiety. When Basil is used for these purposes it is generally made into a hot tea for drinking. Some also claim that a nice hot cup of Basil tea can contribute greatly to a good nights sleep. At herbal stores you can also purchase Basil capsules as well if you do not care for the taste of the tea.

Basil is still one of the most common household herbs used today and in most areas of culinary art it is a necessity there too. When used in its freshest form, Basil is torn from the plant and then just minced up with a knife. Usually somewhere nearby the Basil you will find some olive oil, garlic, and someone getting ready to prepare a fantastic tomato sauce.

Balsam of Tolu | Balsam of Peru

Balsam of Tolu is an herb that comes from a very tall tree that can be found in Columbia, Peru, Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. This herbal plant has also been called Balsam of Peru because it was originally exported primarily from Peru but that is no longer the case. The resin of this tree is what is most valuable and is retrieved in the same fashion that one collects the valuable properties from a rubber tree by tapping into it. The gummy resin that comes from the tree is then turned into balsam. Today, the main exporters of Balsam of Tolu are El Salvador, Columbia, and Venezuela.

In earlier times it was tribal groups from Mexico and Central America that used the leaves of Balsam of Tolu to treat such common ailments as external wounds, asthma, colds, flu, and arthritis. Some native Indians used the bark in a powered form as an underarm deodorant while others found it best for lung and cold ailments. Those who originated in the rainforest tribes used Balsam of Tolu quite frequently for many medicinal purposes such as abscesses, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, headache, rheumatism, sores, sprains, tuberculosis, venereal diseases, and wounds.

As this herbal plant grew in popularity, it was the Europeans who wanted in on the action and soon the Germans were using it for pharmaceutical purposes as well. They found that Balsam of Tolu worked very well for antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic purposes so they immediately started using it for such things as scabies, ringworm, lice, minor ulcerations, wounds, bedsores, and diaper rash. Today, it is used very often in topical salves for the treatment of wounds, ulcers, and scabies.

It can be found in hair tonics, antidandruff shampoos, feminine hygiene sprays and as a natural fragrance in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. In the early 1800's, the United States wanted to utilize Balsam of Tolu as well but used it mainly for treatments as cough suppressants and respiratory aids used in cough lozenges and syrups, for sore throats, and as a vapor inhalant for respiratory distress.


Balsam of Tolu has a vanilla like smell and taste and it is used mostly for flavoring cough syrups, soft drinks, confectionaries, and chewing gums. Balsam of Tolu is widely available now in the U.S. The essential oil distilled from the gum is sold in small bottles and used topically, in aromatherapy. The fragrance is considered to be healing and comforting. It is useful for meditation and relaxation which is why it has become so popular amongst the world of aromatherapy. Balsam of Tolu has a very unique aroma which makes it excellent for exotic floral fragrances.

Generally its topical use is recommended for skin rashes, eczema, and skin parasites such as scabies, ringworm, and head lice. Balsam of Tolu is considered sensitizing oil which means that it is more likely to cause an allergic reaction to the skin or be a skin irritant than other herbal oils might be in people who are sensitive or commonly have allergies to plants and herbs.

Alfalfa

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Alfalfa, which is a perennial herb, has a long list of dietary and medicinal uses and research has proven that Alfalfa might lower blood levels of cholesterol and glucose. Many take Alfalfa supplements orally and is has been proven safe except in a small percentage of people where it produces lupus like symptoms. In the seeds and sprouts of Alfalfa, amino acid L-canavanine is present and that is what is thought to cause this reaction. However, this is not present in the leaves of the Alfalfa. The whole leaf and the herb are what are rendered from the Alfalfa plant.

Since the sixth century the Chinese have used Alfalfa to relieve fluid retention and swelling. The Arabs were the first to find Alfalfa and they named it "the father of all foods." The leaves of the Alfalfa plant are very rich in minerals and nutrients, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, and carotene. The Arabs first fed it to their horses because they believed the Alfalfa made them swift and mighty. Alfalfa has been an animal crop for over a thousand years but is also used as an herbal medicine.

Alfalfa is a good diuretic and also a good laxative. It also works well for urinary tract infections, and kidney, bladder and prostrate disorders. The latest and greatest discovery of Alfalfa is the benefits that it might provide for lowering cholesterol because there are certain agents in Alfalfa that stick to cholesterol which keeps it from remaining in the blood stream. Further, it may also have a very strong relationship with lowering blood sugar levels.

When it comes to Alfalfa it is something that many people enjoy in their cuisine. It is good in salads and some people eat it as a vegetable all alone. Many people claim that eating Alfalfa is a big part of eating healthy. Besides wheat grass and algae, Alfalfa has the most nutritional value. It is high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and has all of the required digestive enzymes.

It is warned by avid Alfalfa lovers that you likely will not like the way that it tastes in your mouth, it may feel like it is burning the tip of your tongue and you actually might just completely dislike it however, they urge you to not give up because it is an acquired taste and you will begin to like it. The best news is that soon after eating it regularly you will find that your appetite for heavier foods will diminish.

Alfalfa is also great for reducing fevers and is very good for the blood. It contains natural fluoride and prevents tooth decay. Alfalfa makes a great tea because when the Alfalfa leaves steep in the hot water it is a source of nitrogen. The tea is not only made for human consumption because people who grow Irises and Delphiniums just love Alfalfa tea because of the great effect that it has on the plants when used as a foliar spray. Many with a green thumb also use Alfalfa as mulch for their flower beds.

Vitamin D

Image via WikipediaVitamin D is also known as the sunlight vitamin because the body manufactures it when the sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays hit the skin. It is technically a hormone because it is the only vitamin that the body manufactures. It is vital in building strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D also strengthens the immune system and prevents some types of cancer. Ten to fifteen minutes walk in the summer sun for a few days weekly is enough supply of vitamin D. Those who can’t get out in the sun may require a supplement especially during winter where people do not get enough sun. The body’s capacity to manufacture vitamin D seems to decline with age. Older adults therefore need more vitamin D from food or supplements whether they have sunlight exposure or not.

There are a number of health benefits you can enjoy from vitamin D. These include:

§ It prevents osteoporosis. Vitamin D promotes absorption and balance of calcium and phosphorous in the body thereby strengthening bones and teeth and promotes normal muscle contraction and nerve function. If calcium in the blood is low, the body is forced to steal the mineral from the bones and supply the muscles and nerves with the calcium they need. Continuous loss of calcium may lead to osteoporosis. Vitamin D together with calcium has a vital role in promoting bone density.
§ It protects against some type of cancer. Vitamin D may be essential in preventing breast, colon and prostate cancer.
§ It slows down joint damage due to arthritis. 400 IU or more of vitamin D can effectively stop osteoarthritis of the knees.
§ It eases back pain. Vitamin D promotes strong bones and cartilage easing back pain.
§ It protects against multiple sclerosis. Studies indicate possible connection between vitamin D and MS.
§ It relieves symptoms of psoriasis. It helps in skin cell metabolism and growth thereby contributing to the treatment of skin diseases. Individuals with psoriasis have low levels of vitamin D.

Vitamin D is sold in tablet, softgel, liquid and capsule formulation. Recommended intake of Vitamin D includes the following:

Ø Men and women ages 19 to 50, take 200 IU per day.
Ø Men and women ages 51 to 70, take 400 IU per day.
Ø Men and women ages 71 and older, take 600 IU per day.

Those that have vitamin D deficiency may develop osteoporosis later on. Other symptoms include nervousness, muscle twitches, insomnia and diarrhea. Children, in case of severe deficiency, may develop a bone-weakening disease called rickets.

If you take excessive doses of vitamin D, usually more than 1,000 IU a day, may notice signs and symptoms of toxic reaction. These symptoms may include: loss of appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination. Taking 10,000 to 15,000 IU on daily basis may lead to weight loss, paleness, constipation, fever and a host of other ailments. Taking Vitamin at more than 1,000 IU daily for an extended period of time may possibly result in high blood pressure, premature hardening of arteries, weaken bones, calcium buildup in the muscles and kidney damage.

In order to get the most vitamin D, expose yourself between 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight from 8 A.M. to 3 P.M. twice or thrice daily can give you all the vitamin D you need. Do not take more than 800 IU of vitamin D supplements per day. For faster absorption, take fat-soluble vitamin with food that has some fat. Vitamin D should be taken with antacids that have magnesium as this can cause high levels of magnesium. Do not take Vitamin D with thiazide diuretics as this can cause toxic levels of calcium that causes kidneys to fail.