Gypsywort

Image via WikipediaGypsywort is an herbal plant that but has no culinary purposes at all but rather is used for industrial and medicinal purposes. This plant originated in Europe and Northwest Asia. Gypsywort's most important properties come from the stem and the leaves. These were used for the astringents, sedatives, anxiety, tuberculosis, and heart palpitations. Industrially, Gypsywort was extremely beneficial in making a permanent black dye. Oddly enough that is how it got its name, the Gypsies were said to have stained their skin with this black dye like substance so they would resemble Africans or Egyptians while they were performing their "magic."

Gypsywort is also called Lycopus europaeus; it has no known hazards and usually grows near rivers, streams and ravines. You will likely find this plant from June to September but the seeds are the most ripe between August and October. A unique physical characteristic of this plant is that is has both male and female organs so it self fertile, pollinated by insects and bees. In a survival situation, the root of the Gypsywort could be eaten raw or cooked.

The flowers of this plant are used for astringents and sedatives but also have an iodine property to it that is commonly used for hyperthyroidism. The entire plant has been known to slow and strengthen heart contractions, treat coughs and bleeding from the lungs, and excessive periods, and the leaves are great for cleaning wounds. Heart disturbances and nervousness can be eased by the use of Gypsywort. The part that is rendered for use is the flowering plant itself and the best time to gather these is June - September. It is a sedative, because it reduces the pulse rate in conditions involving an overactive thyroid gland by reducing the activity of iodine. It was once prescribed for hyperthyroidism and related disorders such as Basedow's disease.

Gypsywort can be purchased at your local herbal supplement store or ordered online and does have some outstanding benefits although not much culinary use. It is a very uncommon and not very often spoken about form of herb. Some use it with aromatherapy and a mixture of many other oils and fragrances. Bugleweed is very closely related to Gypsywort and for medicinal purposes the two are very often closely linked to each other.

The juice of the Bugleweed can also be used as a dye. The two could also be twins in the family of herbs. The rarity of this particular herb in underestimated and often undervalued. With the research that is being done each year on various herbs and their contribution to the medical field maybe one day people will hear more about this herb that remains quite a mystery to most.

Many of the other herbs that can provide similar benefits as the Gypsywort are becoming extinct because they are over harvested and over used so it could be extremely beneficial to utilize much rarer herbs that can often bring forth some of the same benefits as others. Gypsywort just might be one of the herbs that would fall into this category.

Marjoram

Image via WikipediaMarjoram is the dried leaves from an herbal plant called the Origanium hortensis. The name Marjoram is a Greek word that means "Joy of the Mountain." Ancient Greeks believed that if Marjoram grew on a grave that person would enjoy eternal happiness. The taste of Marjoram is a bit sweeter than that of Oregano. Many people believe that Marjoram is, in part, a species of Oregano. Marjoram is a pretty user friendly herb that is used quite traditionally in Italian, French, North African, Middle Eastern, and American cuisine. Marjoram compliments quite nicely sausages, various meats, fish, tomato sauces, salad dressings, breads, stuffing's, and salads.

Marjoram is a relative to the mint family. You get the most flavors from Marjoram if you use the fresh leaves rather than fried marjoram. One big difference between Oregano and Marjoram is while Oregano tends to prosper in taste the longer it simmers in a sauce or stew, marjoram is the opposite and should be added into the dish as late as possible. Although Marjoram is sweet and mild, it is also at the same time minty and has a hint of citrus. The biggest Marjoram exported in Egypt. Marjoram blends very well with Bay Leaves, pepper, and Juniper. While all vegetables can benefit from a hint of Marjoram, it seems to work best on adding and enhancing the flavor of cabbage and legumes.

Many people find a great benefit from Marjoram in aromatherapy oils. Marjoram is said to have a soothing and warming effect with a spicy and warm scent. This explains why it is so popular with those who enjoy the many benefits of aromatherapy. Many times for aromatherapy oils it will be mixed with lavender, bergamot, and cedar wood. Beyond the great world of aromatherapy Marjoram has many other beneficial uses too as it is used as an analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and as a diuretic. The many uses of Marjoram include treatment for anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, bruises, colic, constipation, digestive problems, gas, insomnia, muscle aches and pain, PMS, Rheumatism, sinusitis, and sprains.

Quite often people use Marjoram on a daily basis in various forms. Some prefer it as a tea which has been used throughout history for easing such ailments as hay fever, indigestion, sinus congestion, asthma, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, coughs, colds, and disorders associated with the nervous system. Some even use the tea as a mouthwash. One or two cups of marjoram tea per day have proven to be extremely therapeutic. Marjoram can be made into an ointment or salve by crushing the dried herbs into a paste, adding just a tiny bit of water. This is a common way to treat sprains and Rheumatism. Even still, some will mix the Marjoram into a paste and then into an oil to use for tooth pain or gum issues.

Marjoram should not be ingested internally in a medicinal or herbal form during pregnancy but can be eaten as an herb that is added to food. As you can see, Marjoram is a very essential and beneficial herb that was used in ancient times and is commonly still used today.

The Top Herbal Remedies For Gout - Herbs For Gout

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Parsley

Image via WikipediaWhen it comes to herbs, traditions have changed, varieties have increased, but through it all, Parsley has just stayed Parsley, flat or curly leaf, nothing major and no need for change. Use it as an herb or use it as a garnish, it does not matter people still love it. Often used fresh or dried, fresh is more popular and has very easy access when purchasing it or growing it. Storing it is simple, just wrap it is a damp paper towel and place it in a baggie and store it in the fridge. Parsley is used for all kinds of sauces and salads. Parsley can pretty much be added to anything and is used often to color pestos but it is very frequently used as a garnish.

Throughout history, parsley has been used for cooking as well as for medicinal purposes but has also been used for a lot more. Early Greeks used Parsley to make crowns for the Olympian winners. Hebrew tradition uses Parsley as part of Passover as a symbol of spring and rebirth. Parsley tracks all the way back to Hippocrates who used it for medicinal purposes for cure alls and as an antidote for poisons.

He also used it for ridding kidney and bladder stones. Many of these prior claims have been validated through modern science and it is true that Parsley is rich in vitamin A and C and is also shown to clear toxins from the body and reduces inflammation. Parsley has three times the amount of Vitamin C than oranges do!

Back in much earlier times, any ailments that was thought to be caused from a lack of Vitamin C was treated with Parsley such as for bad gums and loose teeth, for brightening what were considered dim eyes. The Greeks almost feared Parsley because it was associated with Archemorus, who too was an ancient Greek. Ancient tales tell that Archemorus was left as a baby on a parsley leaf by his nurse and was eaten by a serpent. For this reason the Greeks were terrified of Parsley which sounds kind of silly now but it took a while for them to get over that.

Parsley was also used to regulate menstrual cycles because parsley contains apiol which mimics estrogen, the female sex hormone. Parsley was also used to ward off Malaria and is told to have been very successful in doing so and it aided with water retention as well. Although these are old wives tales as some might call them when you consider them for just a minute they really do make a lot of sense.

Some of these old remedies still are used in part today such as the use of Parsley for kidney stones, as a diuretic, for rheumatoid arthritis, as a stimulant, for menstrual regulation, to settle the stomach, and as an appetite stimulant. You can purchase Parsley juice at herbal stores and it can be very healthy for you although it might not taste the greatest it can be mixed with other juices to enhance the flavor. Dried Parsley really has the least amount of nutritional value to it.

Golden Seal

Image by zen via FlickrImage by zen via FlickrImage by Coastlander via FlickrImage via WikipediaGolden Seal is a perennial herb that is part of the Buttercup family. Golden Seal is used for a lot of medicinal purposes in a variety of ways both topically as well as internally. There are actually quite a few ways to purchase Golden Seal, in a bulk powder, salve, tincture, or a tablet. Internally it is a great digestion aid and if gargled with it has been known to remove canker sores.

Golden Seal has been around since times of the European conquest of America but has remained very strong because even today it is used for anti-catarrhal, anti inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, bitter tonic, laxative, and muscular stimulants. Herbalists say that if you are trying to ease gastritis, colitis, duodenal ulcers, loss of appetite, and liver disease, Golden Seal is what you might want to look into which is available at all herbal supplement stores. Golden Seal is very bitter so it stimulates bile secretions, stimulates the appetite, and aids in digestion.

Golden Seal has been around since the mid 19th century but is now threatened because Golden Seal is one of the most over harvested herbs. It keeps getting harvested and harvested but never replaced. Golden Seal which also goes by the name Yellow Root is often combined with Echinacea and prepared for easing the symptoms of colds. It is the underground root of Golden Seal that is harvested and dried to make teas and both liquid and solid extracts that are then turned into bulk powder, capsules or tablets.

Scientists claim that there is no evidence to support the use of Golden Seal for any ailments or medical condition whatsoever because of the very small amount of berberine that Golden Seal contains. Regardless of scientific claims, Golden Seal is one of the most widely sold herbs on the market today.

Although a very controversial subject, many people believe that the reason that Golden Seal is standing solid ground in the marketplace is because it is used primarily for the purpose of masking positive drug screens for people who are required to take drug tests for work or through law enforcement agencies. Many claims there is no validity to this claim but still many people are buying it because a friend told them that it worked and for that matter it is promoted in High Times magazine for the sole purpose of covering bogus drug screens. The claim is that because THC which is the active ingredient in marijuana is fat soluble it stores itself in the kidneys and becomes water soluble. Two to three days prior to a drug screen, you get some Golden Seal, follow the directions and it's a guaranteed pass.

If Golden Seal is one of the most popular herbs on the market today then someone has to be keeping them in business and it is true that many people are turning to herbal remedies in an attempt to heal themselves naturally rather than load up with a bunch of prescriptions that have nasty side effects.

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.

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

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

Echinacea

Image via WikipediaEchinacea is an herb that is extremely effective and holds multiple purposes. There are nine different species of Echinacea but the one most commonly used and referred to is the Echinacea purpurea. Many people take Echinacea everyday to prevent colds, flu, and any other types of infections that might be running rapid at the time as Echinacea has been known for strengthening the immune system. Some people also use Echinacea for the treatment of acne and boils. The entire Echinacea plant including the roots are dried and made into teas, juices, and tonics.

While many swear by the power and strength of Echinacea there is no scientific backing that gives these claims any validity whatsoever. The Natives used to use Echinacea for many different things including the treatment of poisonous snake bites and insect bites. Back in the 1800's Echinacea played a very large part of United States medicine and then spread to Germany where they too used it for many medical purposes.

It was then used as an antibiotic and continued on until better antibiotics were made available. For years Echinacea sort of lost it's pizzazz but more recently gained back its popularity. Many think the reason for that is because there is still no cure for the common cold.

There are many various parts of the Echinacea plant that are used to make medicine but most often it is the roots that are of the most value. Echinacea can be administered in many different ways such as in a tablets, capsules, juice, tea, extracts and tinctures. Some are made from the flower in full bloom and others are made from the root itself. Echinacea is also available in a topical solution or cream that many use for creams, lotions, mouthwashes, ointments, skin washes, and toothpastes. Further it is becoming quite common to add Echinacea to particular cosmetics as an anti aging remedy but that claim has no validity at all as there is no relationship between anti aging and Echinacea.

Echinacea is an extremely beneficial herb for helping the body rid itself of microbial infections. When combined with other herbs such as Yarrow and Bearberry it is said to work great combating cystitis however Echinacea has yet to be endorsed by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. Those who use Echinacea for the common cold swear by it and it is recommended that for the most effectiveness you should begin taking Echinacea when you notice the very first symptoms of a cold and then stay on it for three weeks and stop taking it for one week.

There are some who would be at risk if they took Echinacea such as people with multiple sclerosis, white blood cell disorders, collagen disorders, HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disorders, or tuberculosis. Heed caution also if you have any plant allergies; take other medications, or herbal remedies. Children should not take Echinacea, nor should pregnant women or nursing mothers.

Also, people who are on steroid medicine including betamethasone, cortisone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, triamcinolone, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, azathioprine, or other immune system suppressants should avoid the use of Echinacea.

Tea tree oil

Image via WikipediaThe leaves of Tea tree ( Melaleuca alternifolia) produces oil which has been used by Australian for centuries to treat skin infections. This fragrant oil smells similar to that of nutmeg. Tea tree only grows in Australia. Right now, Australia is the major source of tea tree oil which exports some 700 tons annually. Pure tea tree oil is colorless to pale yellow. It is often called as ‘melaleuca oil’.

There is a number of health benefits associated with this herbal medicine. Tea tree oil with high quality contains 40% or more of terpinen-4-ol, which is the major ingredient that combats harmful bacteria and fungi. It is the component that makes tea tree oil effective in treating cuts, scrapes, insect bites and stings. Other benefits one can derived from tea tree oil include:

* It treats cuts, scrapes, insect bites, stings, minor skin wounds and irritations. The oil changes the chemical barrier of the skin making it inhospitable to fungi and other organisms.
* It fights fungal nail infections, jock itch and athlete’s foot. Tea tree oil is effective in fighting Trichophyton, the fungus that causes a number of topical infections such as athlete’s foot and jock itch.
* It minimizes the course of vaginal yeast infections. It is effective in countering the causes which are Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis.
* It can control acne. Preparations of up to 15% of tea tree oil can treat even the severe case of acne due to its antic-acne properties.
* It treats dandruff and head lice. 5% solution of tea tree oil is effective in combating Pityrosporum ovale, a fungus which cause dandruff.
* It stops warts by stopping the virus.



Tea tree oil comes in suppository, oil, gel and cream formulations. In order to get the most benefit out of tea tree oil, find a product that is derived only from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. Other species have higher percentage of cineole which can cause skin irritation and lessens the oil’s benefits.

To treat minor skin wounds, insect bites and stings and irritations, cleanse the wound then apply one or two drops of tea tree oil to the affected area twice or thrice daily.

To treat nail infections, rub tea tree oil on the nail twice daily.

To treat athlete’s foot, apply the oil or cream to the areas affected twice daily and/or use it in a foot bath. For foot bath, put 20 drops of tea tree oil in small basin of warm water, soak the feet for 15 minutes two or three times a day. Dry the feet then apply a drop or two of oil to the affected area.

To treat vaginal yeast infections, use tea tree oil vaginal suppository every 12 hours for a maximum of five days.

To treat acne, put a drop or two to each acne lesion three times daily.

To treat warts, put few drops on small gauze and tape it over the wart at bedtime then remove in the morning. Continue until wart heals.

In buying the product, the following pointers might help:

* Make sure that M. alternifolia is one of the first ingredients listed in the tea tree oil.
* Tea tree oil can be found in skin care and beauty products such as shampoo and soaps. Research if the product can give you the benefits of tea tree oil.
* Some toothpaste also contains tea tree oil but in very small quantity. This amount is not enough to fight bacteria in the mouth though.
* Do not ingest tea tree oil. It is strictly for external use only. If ingest accidentally, call the doctor.

There are no known drugs or nutrient interaction with tea tree oil. Possible side effects of tea tree oil include skin irritation for those with sensitive skin. It can also cause allergies in some people.

Chamomile

Image by blumenbiene via FlickrChamomile is an herb that has been used for thousands of years for many ailments including gas, diarrhea, stomach upset, sleeplessness, and anxiety. It can also be used topically for certain skin lesions. The Chamomile plant has flowering tops and these are what are used for making tea and other herbal remedies that include Chamomile.

When Chamomile tops are stewed and then drained the liquid is a deep yellow color and can be lightly sweetened if preferred. It has a very unique taste to it and many women used to make sure they always had a few baby bottles tucked safely away in the refrigerator in case their baby got gas. It was used before the days of over the counter gas relief drops and although there is no scientific validity to it, it always seemed to make the baby stop wailing and fall fast asleep.


It was also given to women for menstrual cramps in the days before Midol and Pamprin. Chamomile also has some calming properties to it so it can be very beneficial to sip on during the day if you are feeling anxious or if the muscles in your body are tense from anxiety and stress it is said that Chamomile can help to relieve that.

Chamomile produces an oil that when isolated turns a very unique bluish color and this has very distinct anti-inflammatory properties to it so it has been known to work very well on skin infections, eczema, and inflamed skin. This would be Chamomile in its topical form rather than the flowers or the tea from the flowers. Again, remember that Chamomile was around for a long time before many over the counter and prescription medications were so readily available. For years all many people had to rely on was herbal remedies that were likely passed down from generations and possibly continued to be passed down even after the newer medications did come to the forefront.

Often when small children had bug bites, diaper rashes, or eczema, the mother would fill a stocking with Chamomile and oatmeal and let it soak in the tub with her children. It was very effective in stopping the itch and improving the diaper rash. Chamomile was also used in combination with other herbs for a lot of other purposes such as if one felt nauseous, a combination of Chamomile, shredded licorice root, fennel seeds, and peppermint would cure that pretty quickly. Because Chamomile is part of the Ragweed family you should not ingest it if you have an allergy to Ragweed.

Some people love to sip a hot cup of Chamomile tea with no ailments at all, just because they enjoy it. Pregnant and nursing mothers are advised to stay away from all herbs but Chamomile is the exception to this rule. It is completely safe for anyone to drink at any time. It has even been known to help teething babies too. On a final note Chamomile has been known to be an excellent hair conditioner and to sooth scalps. When mixed with a bit of lemon and sunshine it has also been known to give subtle natural highlights to hair.