Herbal Remedies
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been used as an herbal remedy for hundreds of years. It has many applications, and has been used by Native Americans and Africans to treat inflammation, fevers, and to protect against infection or illness. It has also been used to boost the immune system, improve memory, and to promote overall wellness.
Ashwagandha is a shrub that flourishes in India and North America. The roots of the ashwagandha plant have been employed for millennia by Ayurvedic healers. Ashwagandha has many beneficial elements, including flavonoids and members of the withanolide class. Numerous modern studies have found that ashwagandha shows great promise for being effective in reducing inflammation, decreasing stress, increasing mental activity, invigorating the body, and as an antioxidant.
Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Scholars at Banaras Hindu University, located in Varanasi, India, have conducted research that has shown that many of the elements of ashwagandha are antioxidants. The researchers looked at the effects these elements have on the brains of test animals and found that ashwagandha led to larger amounts of three different natural antioxidants: superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. The scholars conclude, “These findings are consistent with the therapeutic use of W. somnifera as an Ayurvedic rasayana (health promoter). The antioxidant effect of active principles of W. somnifera may explain, at least in part, the reported anti-stress, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects produced by them in experimental animals, and in clinical situations."
For years, Indians have prescribed ashwagandha as a treatment for cerebral disorders in the elderly, including memory loss. Scholars from the University of Leipzig looked at the effects of ashwagandha on the brain. They dosed rats with ashwagandha and then looked at their brains to see if ashwagandha affected neurotransmitters. The research showed that ashwagandha led to more acetylcholine receptor activity. The scholars concluded that the increase of activity in that particular neurotransmitter could account for the increase in cognitive ability and memory that is attributed to ashwagandha.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center also looked at the effects of ashwagandha. They found that extracts of the shrub had activity that was similar to GABA, which could explain why the plant is effective in reducing anxiety.
Another study, conducted in 2002, found that ashwagandha leads to increased growth of axons and dendrites. Another study in 2001 found that the plant can enhance memory. A 2000 project indicated that ashwagandha reduced anxiety and depression in animals.
Dong Quai Root
Dong Quai Root Dong Quai is closely related to celery. It is an herb that flowers from May to August. The blossoms are white with a greenish tint. It flourishes in wet areas, and is usually found in alpine canyons, meadows, along river beds, or near the coast. Dong Quai is a very effective treatment for many maladies. Dong Quai, also called Chinese Angelica, is usually recommended for use by women. It is a common remedy in both China and the United States. Chinese herbalists call Dong Quai “women’s ginseng.”
Dong Quai is commonly used in conjunction with other herbs as a remedy for disorders of the menstrual cycle, like cessation of menstruation, pain that accompanies menstruation (also called dysmenorrhea), and bleeding from the uterus. Traditional Chinese healers do not use it, however, to treat menopausal symptoms. Chinese herbalists recommend it for both males and females to treat cardiovascular disorders like high blood pressure or circulatory problems. Dong Quai has been known to increase activity of the central nervous system, which gives increased strength and energy and soothes headaches which can accompany problems with menstruation. It is also beneficial to the reproductive organs, and is used to treat endometriosis, or internal bleeding or bruising. It can sometimes treat problems associated with menopause like hot flashes or vaginal dehydration. It is also used to purify the bloodstream of toxins, stimulate circulation, and is very beneficial to the blood in both men and women. Dong Quai is very rich in iron and so it is used to treat or prevent anemia. Research indicates it is also effective in evening out blood sugar amounts and reducing blood pressure.
Dong Quai can also be used as a mind sedative as it soothes nerves and helps people relax. It can also be used to help the uterus during birth. Other uses of Dong Quai include treating insomnia, constipation, and migraines.
Dosage Information
Dong Quai is a root that is usually crushed into a powder and is then taken as a pill. Females can take from 1-4 grams per day, though doses should be kept small and spread throughout the day. Alternately, a mixture that contains 3-5 ml of Dong Quai can be ingested up to three times daily.
Possible Side Effects
For fair-skinned people, Dong Quai may increase sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, so people who take Dong Quai often should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Dong Quai is not recommended for use by pregnant or nursing women.
Dong Quai may interact negatively with other medications. Consult with a doctor before combining any medications.
Dong Quai is commonly used in conjunction with other herbs as a remedy for disorders of the menstrual cycle, like cessation of menstruation, pain that accompanies menstruation (also called dysmenorrhea), and bleeding from the uterus. Traditional Chinese healers do not use it, however, to treat menopausal symptoms. Chinese herbalists recommend it for both males and females to treat cardiovascular disorders like high blood pressure or circulatory problems. Dong Quai has been known to increase activity of the central nervous system, which gives increased strength and energy and soothes headaches which can accompany problems with menstruation. It is also beneficial to the reproductive organs, and is used to treat endometriosis, or internal bleeding or bruising. It can sometimes treat problems associated with menopause like hot flashes or vaginal dehydration. It is also used to purify the bloodstream of toxins, stimulate circulation, and is very beneficial to the blood in both men and women. Dong Quai is very rich in iron and so it is used to treat or prevent anemia. Research indicates it is also effective in evening out blood sugar amounts and reducing blood pressure.
Dong Quai can also be used as a mind sedative as it soothes nerves and helps people relax. It can also be used to help the uterus during birth. Other uses of Dong Quai include treating insomnia, constipation, and migraines.
Dosage Information
Dong Quai is a root that is usually crushed into a powder and is then taken as a pill. Females can take from 1-4 grams per day, though doses should be kept small and spread throughout the day. Alternately, a mixture that contains 3-5 ml of Dong Quai can be ingested up to three times daily.
Possible Side Effects
For fair-skinned people, Dong Quai may increase sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, so people who take Dong Quai often should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Dong Quai is not recommended for use by pregnant or nursing women.
Dong Quai may interact negatively with other medications. Consult with a doctor before combining any medications.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a very popular herbal remedy, but its full potential is not completely known by many in the medical profession. For hundreds of years, Echinacea was used by numerous cultures to promote better health.
Echinacea, sometimes called coneflower, is a wildflower that flourishes in meadows or wet valleys in the Midwestern United States. Echinacea is most famous for its medicinal properties, but it is also common in gardens since it has striking purple blossoms.
Health Benefits of Echinacea
Echinacea works to increase the activity of the immune system by stimulating white blood cells, which attack the viruses and bacteria that lead to illness or infection. This also makes it very beneficial for people with AIDS since their immune systems are weakened. This application of Echinacea is being extensively researched, since the full effect of the immune system on AIDS and cancer is still unknown. Echinacea is also every effective in treating respiratory ailments like colds. Some research has found Echinacea to be effective as an antiviral or antifungal, which also helps it fight infection. The full potential of Echinacea, for these applications and others, still needs to be thoroughly studied.
In some parts of Europe, Echinacea is taken in an IV as supplemental treatment for some forms of cancer. Some European medical professionals also inject Echinacea to remedy infections of the urinary tract. However, neither of these practices are common in America.
Echinacea can also be used externally to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It can also be an ingredient in hemorrhoid treatments or to sooth inset bites. Some people use it to shield their skin from sun damage.
Dosage and Administration
To make a tea out of Echinacea, use 1-2 teaspoons of Echinacea in a cup of unheated water. Slowly heat the mixture until it is boiling and let simmer for 10-12 minutes. The tea can be taken three times daily.
If you are taking it in tincture form, take 1-4 milliliters three times daily.
Fo - Ti Plant
The Fo-ti plant is native to Taiwan and Japan, but originated in China. In traditional Chinese medicine, premature aging, infectious diseases, erectile dysfunction, vaginal discharges, angina pectoris, and weakness are treated with the Fo-ti plant’s root.
Known by the Chinese as he-shou-wu, fo-ti received its name from a man who used the plant to heal his infertility. The medicinal herb then became used throughout China to treat problems including infections, aging, erectile dysfunction, vaginal problems, and angina.
What gives Fo-ti its medicinal properties?
Fo-ti includes chemical compounds including tannins, tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside, anthraquinones, and phospholipids. Cholesterol levels in the body are lowered by the combination of these chemicals. Fo-ti’s abilities to eliminate fatty deposits found in the blood and to prevent atherosclerosis are being researched.
Human studies have not been conducted the prove fo-ti’s suspected ability to work as an antibacterial substance, to stimulate the immune system, and to increase the forming of red blood cells.
Side Effects
Mild side effects such as skin rash and diarrhea may occur while taking fo-ti. Numbness in the arms and legs can occur when an excess of 15 processed grams of fo-ti are taken daily. Side effects are considered minimal.
Dosage and Administration
There is not a recommended daily dose; however, 4-8 grams, or 1-1 ½ teaspoons can be ingested each day. To prepare tea, boil ½ - 1 teaspoon of root in a cup of water (250 ml) for 10 minutes. Drink at least 3 cups daily. Fo-ti can also be taken in tablet form. 500 mg can be ingested three times each day.
Known by the Chinese as he-shou-wu, fo-ti received its name from a man who used the plant to heal his infertility. The medicinal herb then became used throughout China to treat problems including infections, aging, erectile dysfunction, vaginal problems, and angina.
What gives Fo-ti its medicinal properties?
Fo-ti includes chemical compounds including tannins, tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside, anthraquinones, and phospholipids. Cholesterol levels in the body are lowered by the combination of these chemicals. Fo-ti’s abilities to eliminate fatty deposits found in the blood and to prevent atherosclerosis are being researched.
Human studies have not been conducted the prove fo-ti’s suspected ability to work as an antibacterial substance, to stimulate the immune system, and to increase the forming of red blood cells.
Side Effects
Mild side effects such as skin rash and diarrhea may occur while taking fo-ti. Numbness in the arms and legs can occur when an excess of 15 processed grams of fo-ti are taken daily. Side effects are considered minimal.
Dosage and Administration
There is not a recommended daily dose; however, 4-8 grams, or 1-1 ½ teaspoons can be ingested each day. To prepare tea, boil ½ - 1 teaspoon of root in a cup of water (250 ml) for 10 minutes. Drink at least 3 cups daily. Fo-ti can also be taken in tablet form. 500 mg can be ingested three times each day.
Garlic
Garlic is grown in many areas throughout the world and is considered by herbalists to be one of the most essential and useful herbs used for medicinal purposes. Various cultures have benefited from using garlic in medicines and foods for centuries.
The Miracle of Garlic
Garlic has been used for many years to prevent health problems including colds, flu, menstrual pain, high blood pressure, coughs, gastrointestinal problems, atherosclerosis, and bronchitis. Garlic has been proven to kill various fungal infections, viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites. Also labeled as an antioxidant, garlic may help prevent certain cancers such as colon cancer and can improve the effectiveness of the immune system.
Garlic is most popular for its effectiveness of cardiovascular wellness. Garlic is effective treating atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, respiratory infections, and triglyceride levels.
Alliin is the primary ingredient found in garlic. This chemical is similar chemically to cysteine, an amino acid containing sulfur, and possesses no odor. After garlic is crushed, alliin is to converted into allicin, the compound that gives garlic its strong smell and numerous health benefits.
Side Effects and Possible Interactions
Garlic supplements are said to have to side effects other than the strong odor.
The combination of using garlic and warfarin may result in a greater risk of bleeding. Large doses of garlic should not be ingested when using warfarin, indomethacin, dipyridamole, aspirin, or other medications that thin the blood.
Dosage and Administration
Garlic is most commonly taken daily in capsule form containing between 1000 and 3000 mg. 0.03 to 0.12 mL of garlic oil can be taken three times a day.
The Miracle of Garlic
Garlic has been used for many years to prevent health problems including colds, flu, menstrual pain, high blood pressure, coughs, gastrointestinal problems, atherosclerosis, and bronchitis. Garlic has been proven to kill various fungal infections, viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites. Also labeled as an antioxidant, garlic may help prevent certain cancers such as colon cancer and can improve the effectiveness of the immune system.
Garlic is most popular for its effectiveness of cardiovascular wellness. Garlic is effective treating atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, respiratory infections, and triglyceride levels.
Alliin is the primary ingredient found in garlic. This chemical is similar chemically to cysteine, an amino acid containing sulfur, and possesses no odor. After garlic is crushed, alliin is to converted into allicin, the compound that gives garlic its strong smell and numerous health benefits.
Side Effects and Possible Interactions
Garlic supplements are said to have to side effects other than the strong odor.
The combination of using garlic and warfarin may result in a greater risk of bleeding. Large doses of garlic should not be ingested when using warfarin, indomethacin, dipyridamole, aspirin, or other medications that thin the blood.
Dosage and Administration
Garlic is most commonly taken daily in capsule form containing between 1000 and 3000 mg. 0.03 to 0.12 mL of garlic oil can be taken three times a day.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine to treat problems such as vomiting, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, coughing, and rheumatism. Tibet and Ayurvedic medicine also uses ginger to treat inflammatory joint diseases including rheumatism and arthritis.
Proposed Medical Benefits of Ginger
Ginger root is used today to provide relief for symptoms of motion sickness including sweating, vomiting, dizziness, and nausea. No conclusive results were found when studies compared commercial medications with ginger. Signs of similar results between the two did seem apparent in the studies.
Ginger has other uses including relieving arthritis pain, ulcerative colitis, menstrual discomfort, headaches, fevers from flu and colds, and sore throats. Gastrointestinal problems including heartburn and gas can also be treated with ginger. The muscles of the gastrointestinal tract can be strengthened by the use of garlic. Ginger is also used to treat arthritis, both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. It is thought that garlic can also provide relief for toothaches, but no scientific evidence exists to support this.
Ginger Constituents
Volatile oils in ginger are what cause the taste, smell, and medical effectiveness. About 1-4% of ginger is oil. Ginger contains pungent constituents, shogaols and gingerols, which make it effective for relieving vomiting and nausea. Bisabolene and zingiberene are the aromatic constituents of garlic.
Dosage and Administration
For treating and preventing motion sickness, ingest 500 mg of ginger powder (dried) between 30 to 60 minutes prior to traveling. 500 mg should be taken as needed every 2 to 4 hours. Pregnant women should not use ginger for a prolonged amount of time, but can take as much as 1 gram daily to treat nausea.
There are no recommendations for dosage in children.
Gingko Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba Believed to be one of the most ancient species of trees still in existence, Ginkgo biloba trees can live as long as 1000 years. The tree’s leaves are used for medical treatment. The trees are grown in Korea, China, southern France, and in the eastern and southern United States.
Ginkgo Biloba is most commonly used to treat the elderly for disorientation, depression, memory loss, headaches, tinnitus, and vertigo because of its positive effects as a circulatory aid. It is thought to help increase blood flow to the brain, which makes it a possible treatment for cerebral insufficiency.
Those suffering from other circulation problems, such as leg cramps, have found relief from using Ginkgo Biloba. Although there are no conclusive studies, Ginkgo’s antioxidant effects may protect the cardiovascular the central nervous system from the effects of aging such as mental deterioration. Ginkgo is thought to also restrain high blood pressure.
Dosage and Administration
Scientific research has not been conducted using ginkgo in children; therefore no dosages are suggested for children.
Adults can 120 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Extract used should be standardized to 25% flavone glycosides. Results in adults begin to be seen after using ginkgo for 4-6 weeks. Big changes in health may take up to six months of use before being noticed.
Ginkgo Biloba is most commonly used to treat the elderly for disorientation, depression, memory loss, headaches, tinnitus, and vertigo because of its positive effects as a circulatory aid. It is thought to help increase blood flow to the brain, which makes it a possible treatment for cerebral insufficiency.
Those suffering from other circulation problems, such as leg cramps, have found relief from using Ginkgo Biloba. Although there are no conclusive studies, Ginkgo’s antioxidant effects may protect the cardiovascular the central nervous system from the effects of aging such as mental deterioration. Ginkgo is thought to also restrain high blood pressure.
Dosage and Administration
Scientific research has not been conducted using ginkgo in children; therefore no dosages are suggested for children.
Adults can 120 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Extract used should be standardized to 25% flavone glycosides. Results in adults begin to be seen after using ginkgo for 4-6 weeks. Big changes in health may take up to six months of use before being noticed.
Ginseng Root
Ginseng Root and Herb This famous Chinese herb has been used for over 5,000 years. It was worth more than gold to the Qing Dynasty of ancient China.
Ginseng is used in thousands of formulas to provide vivacity and energy. Ginseng is used more than any other herbal remedy.
Ginseng contains nitrogenous compounds, minerals, vitamins, fat-soluble compounds, and carbohydrate compounds in its stained root. The herb is costly and not easy to produce and takes six years to reach maturity.
Researchers today label ginseng as a strong immune system tonic that can uniquely affect the entire body.
Various types of ginseng include Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular and grows in China, Korea, and Japan. Siberian ginseng is native to Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. America ginseng can be found in forested areas from Quebec to Minnesota and south to Georgia and Oklahoma.
American and Asian ginseng, both similar in chemical composition and appearance, are the types recognized for having healing powers. Ginseng grown in North American is often thought of as the most favorable and costly. It is grown and exported from Wisconsin, British Columbia, and Ontario.
Ginseng is used in thousands of formulas to provide vivacity and energy. Ginseng is used more than any other herbal remedy.
Ginseng contains nitrogenous compounds, minerals, vitamins, fat-soluble compounds, and carbohydrate compounds in its stained root. The herb is costly and not easy to produce and takes six years to reach maturity.
Researchers today label ginseng as a strong immune system tonic that can uniquely affect the entire body.
Various types of ginseng include Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular and grows in China, Korea, and Japan. Siberian ginseng is native to Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. America ginseng can be found in forested areas from Quebec to Minnesota and south to Georgia and Oklahoma.
American and Asian ginseng, both similar in chemical composition and appearance, are the types recognized for having healing powers. Ginseng grown in North American is often thought of as the most favorable and costly. It is grown and exported from Wisconsin, British Columbia, and Ontario.
Green Tea
Green Tea Chinese legend says that over four thousand years ago, green tea was accidentally discovered. Today green tea is used to treat problems including depression, headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, aches, and pains. It is also used to boost the immune system, to prolong life, to detoxify, and to provide energy.
Green Tea for Health and Long Life
Teas generally all come from the tea plant; what causes each tea to differ is how it is prepared. Green tea differs from oolong and blank tea because the active components stay unchanged because it is not fermented. In addition to various vitamins, nutrients, and minerals, green tea contains organic chemicals called polyphenols, or epigallocatechin gallate, that produce its medicinal properties.
Health Benefits of Green Tea
Early scientific studies are showing that green tea may be able to lower cholesterol, especially the dangerous LDL cholesterol. They also suggest that this tea might improve cardiovascular health by causing blood platelets to be less sticky.
Green tea is known to be a detoxifier and an antioxidant and can help prevent atherosclerosis.
Other studies show the possibility of green tea having the ability to restrain cancer. The polyphenols in green tea stopped the spreading of melanoma cells in scientific experiments on animals and may also be able to lower the risk of certain cancers in humans.
Green tea also has the ability to reduce bacteria causing dental cavities and harmful bacteria found in the stomach.
Dosage and Administration
No specific recommendations are currently given for green tea; however, most people drink around 3 cups of tea each day. Some research indicates that as many as 10 cups of green tea may be needed each day to make a noticeable difference in health.
Green tea is made by adding 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves to 1 cup of hot (not boiling) water. Steep for 3 minutes.
Kava - Kava
A tall tropical shrub produces the Kava-Kava root. The plant is characterized by big leaves shaped like hearts that fill the branches. Flowers blossom on the plant where the branches join with the stems.
The Kava root is primarily used to fight anxiety disorders and to relieve anxiety related to stress. Low doses of Kava improve activity and awareness. Large doses can cause drowsiness. Medical specialists often prescribe kava to treat stiffness, insomnia, pain, jet lag, uncontrolled epilepsy, and anxiety.
From animal testing, researchers found that the Kava-Kava root contains chemicals known as kavapyrones that enable muscle relaxation by reducing convulsions. They also found that kavpyrones also cause similar reactions in the brain to those caused by commercial drugs used to treat anxiety and depression. Direct use of kava in the mouth results in intense numbing caused by kavalactones found in the plant.
Unlike commercial drugs to treat anxiety, the lactones in kava do not have negative effects on heart rate, thinking ability, breathing, or blood pressure. Kava does alter the amount of neurotransmitters in the blood. This is because kava stops re-absorption of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. Higher blood levels of norepinephrine can aid in relaxation and lessen anxiety. Kava also increases the number of attachment sites for gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), another neurotransmitter. An increased number of GABA sites can increase GABA activity resulting in sedation. An additional explanation for kava’s helpful results could be chemicals in the plant work to stop monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B), an enzyme, from affecting levels of dopamine, another neurotransmitter. However, this process is highly unpredictable. MAO-B and dopamine both have separate functions on the body’s emotional stability, but the precise effects of kava-kava are still indefinite.
Dosage and Administration
Kava supplementations should have standardized kavalactone content. 70 mg of standardized kava extract can be take three times daily for a total of 210 mg. One 210 mg dose can be used for insomnia. A dose of 2-4 g as decoction can be taken to treat stress, insomnia, and anxiety as many as three times a day. The decoction of made by boiling the herb in water.
Precautions and Side Effects
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in March of 2002 that kava can cause liver damage. Those individuals on liver-compromising medications or with liver diseases should consult a physician before taking kava.
The Kava root is primarily used to fight anxiety disorders and to relieve anxiety related to stress. Low doses of Kava improve activity and awareness. Large doses can cause drowsiness. Medical specialists often prescribe kava to treat stiffness, insomnia, pain, jet lag, uncontrolled epilepsy, and anxiety.
From animal testing, researchers found that the Kava-Kava root contains chemicals known as kavapyrones that enable muscle relaxation by reducing convulsions. They also found that kavpyrones also cause similar reactions in the brain to those caused by commercial drugs used to treat anxiety and depression. Direct use of kava in the mouth results in intense numbing caused by kavalactones found in the plant.
Unlike commercial drugs to treat anxiety, the lactones in kava do not have negative effects on heart rate, thinking ability, breathing, or blood pressure. Kava does alter the amount of neurotransmitters in the blood. This is because kava stops re-absorption of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. Higher blood levels of norepinephrine can aid in relaxation and lessen anxiety. Kava also increases the number of attachment sites for gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), another neurotransmitter. An increased number of GABA sites can increase GABA activity resulting in sedation. An additional explanation for kava’s helpful results could be chemicals in the plant work to stop monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B), an enzyme, from affecting levels of dopamine, another neurotransmitter. However, this process is highly unpredictable. MAO-B and dopamine both have separate functions on the body’s emotional stability, but the precise effects of kava-kava are still indefinite.
Dosage and Administration
Kava supplementations should have standardized kavalactone content. 70 mg of standardized kava extract can be take three times daily for a total of 210 mg. One 210 mg dose can be used for insomnia. A dose of 2-4 g as decoction can be taken to treat stress, insomnia, and anxiety as many as three times a day. The decoction of made by boiling the herb in water.
Precautions and Side Effects
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in March of 2002 that kava can cause liver damage. Those individuals on liver-compromising medications or with liver diseases should consult a physician before taking kava.
Licorice Root
Licorice Root was used historically to treat the skin and coughs. It is also used to treat constipation, bronchitis, inflammation, and arthritis. Licorice may be prescribed by health care providers to treat adrenocortical insufficiency, peptic ulcer, and chronic gastritis.
Glycyrrhizin, a glycoside, makes up almost 8% of the licorice plant. These chemical compounds could have positive effects on the body. Two enzymes that break down prostaglandin E (PGE) are stopped by glycyrrhizin. Low levels of PGE are linked to problems such as stomach inflammation, colic, and ulcers.
Glycyrrhizin stops the enzymes from lowering PGE levels allowing levels to increase. Increased PGE aids the production of stomach mucus which lowers the high acid levels that can lead to stomach disorders. Respiratory mucus production is also increased by glycyrrhizin. This increase helps the mucus to lose stickiness and leave the body more easily. Licorice can also rid lungs of mucus and is used to treat problems such as bronchitis and to relieve coughing and sore throats. Many cough lozenges and syrups use licorice as flavoring and as a cough suppressant.
Traditional Chinese Medicine uses licorice to treat problems from tuberculosis to diabetes. Restrained production of cortisol and anti-inflammatory effects are caused by the flavonoids and glycyrrhizin in licorice. Research has shown that licorice flavonoids can kill the bacteria that causes stomach inflammation and ulcers, called Helicobacter pylori. Licorice is thought to have other antiviral properties, but none have been proven thus far.
Liquiritin, a licorice extract, is used as treatment for a skin pigmentation disorder called melasma. The effectiveness of licorice on this condition has not yet been proven.
Dosage and Administration
The following forms of licorice can be taken:
Large amounts of licorice or chewing licorice flavored products and tobacco can put you at risk for licorice toxicities and side effects.
Glycyrrhizin, a glycoside, makes up almost 8% of the licorice plant. These chemical compounds could have positive effects on the body. Two enzymes that break down prostaglandin E (PGE) are stopped by glycyrrhizin. Low levels of PGE are linked to problems such as stomach inflammation, colic, and ulcers.
Glycyrrhizin stops the enzymes from lowering PGE levels allowing levels to increase. Increased PGE aids the production of stomach mucus which lowers the high acid levels that can lead to stomach disorders. Respiratory mucus production is also increased by glycyrrhizin. This increase helps the mucus to lose stickiness and leave the body more easily. Licorice can also rid lungs of mucus and is used to treat problems such as bronchitis and to relieve coughing and sore throats. Many cough lozenges and syrups use licorice as flavoring and as a cough suppressant.
Traditional Chinese Medicine uses licorice to treat problems from tuberculosis to diabetes. Restrained production of cortisol and anti-inflammatory effects are caused by the flavonoids and glycyrrhizin in licorice. Research has shown that licorice flavonoids can kill the bacteria that causes stomach inflammation and ulcers, called Helicobacter pylori. Licorice is thought to have other antiviral properties, but none have been proven thus far.
Liquiritin, a licorice extract, is used as treatment for a skin pigmentation disorder called melasma. The effectiveness of licorice on this condition has not yet been proven.
Dosage and Administration
The following forms of licorice can be taken:
- DGL extract: 0.4 to 1.6 g three times daily to treat peptic ulcer; in chewable tablet form 300 to 400 mg 20 minutes prior to meals to treat peptic ulcer
- Tincture: 2 to 4 mL three times per day
- Dried root: 1 to 5 g three times per day as decoction
Large amounts of licorice or chewing licorice flavored products and tobacco can put you at risk for licorice toxicities and side effects.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushrooms grow in the coastal areas of China and are cultivated in Taiwan, Korea, North America, and Japan. It is referred to as the “herb of spiritual potency”, or hing zhi. They are found on fallen tree stumps and decomposing logs. There are six varieties of color, but red mushrooms are used primarily in Asia and North America. Medicinal benefits come from the fruiting part of the mushroom.
Reishi is used to treat asthma, coughs, weakness and fatigue, and insomnia.
Polysaccharides, coumarin, sterols, mannitol, and triterpenoids called ganoderic acides are the primary constituents of the mushroom.
Ganoderic acids may be able to lower cholesterol and blood pressure in addition to inhibit blood platelets from sticking together. Although not yet proven, these acids may also be able to treat chronic hepatitis B, altitude sickness, cancer, and diabetes mellitus.
Recommended Dosage :
Reishi is used to treat asthma, coughs, weakness and fatigue, and insomnia.
Polysaccharides, coumarin, sterols, mannitol, and triterpenoids called ganoderic acides are the primary constituents of the mushroom.
Ganoderic acids may be able to lower cholesterol and blood pressure in addition to inhibit blood platelets from sticking together. Although not yet proven, these acids may also be able to treat chronic hepatitis B, altitude sickness, cancer, and diabetes mellitus.
Recommended Dosage :
- Take 1.5-9 grams of dried mushroom daily
- Take 1ml of tincture or in tea daily
- Take 1-1.5 grams in powdered form daily
Saw Palmetto
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Saw palmetto grows in areas of southern Europe, Africa, and in coastal regions of the American southeast. This small palm tree produces white flowers in the spring and summer. The tree’s fruit is olive-sized and forms in clusters. When ripe, the fruit becomes dark blue. The fruit is used for medicinal purposes after being dried. Plant sterols and fatty acids are two of the compounds found in the plant.
Saw palmetto is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms in numerous western countries. Aging men often are affected by BPH and experience symptoms including frequent urination, difficulty maintaining or starting urination, need to urinate during the night, and urine leakage.
Research supports that saw palmetto is effective in treating BPH in some individuals. Although saw palmetto seems to provide relief for BPH symptoms, it does not reduce the prostate’s size.
Saw palmetto is used by some herbalists as a diuretic, an anti-inflammatory, a sedative, and an antiseptic. Various reports claim that saw palmetto may also stimulate hair growth.
Although there is no supporting scientific research, some women use saw palmetto to increase breast size.
Dosage and Administration
Saw palmetto can be taken in liquid, tablet, or capsule form. Products should contain an 80% standardization of fatty acids, the active ingredients. This standardization insures all commercial products of saw palmetto have equal amounts of active ingredients.
Noticed effects often take up to 1 ½ months to see. Recommended daily dosages range from 320 to 1800 mg.
Although it is common to find products combing saw palmetto with other herbs, the FDA warns that various combination products can result in internal bleeding. Consult with your physician before using saw palmetto.
Saw palmetto grows in areas of southern Europe, Africa, and in coastal regions of the American southeast. This small palm tree produces white flowers in the spring and summer. The tree’s fruit is olive-sized and forms in clusters. When ripe, the fruit becomes dark blue. The fruit is used for medicinal purposes after being dried. Plant sterols and fatty acids are two of the compounds found in the plant.
Saw palmetto is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms in numerous western countries. Aging men often are affected by BPH and experience symptoms including frequent urination, difficulty maintaining or starting urination, need to urinate during the night, and urine leakage.
Research supports that saw palmetto is effective in treating BPH in some individuals. Although saw palmetto seems to provide relief for BPH symptoms, it does not reduce the prostate’s size.
Saw palmetto is used by some herbalists as a diuretic, an anti-inflammatory, a sedative, and an antiseptic. Various reports claim that saw palmetto may also stimulate hair growth.
Although there is no supporting scientific research, some women use saw palmetto to increase breast size.
Dosage and Administration
Saw palmetto can be taken in liquid, tablet, or capsule form. Products should contain an 80% standardization of fatty acids, the active ingredients. This standardization insures all commercial products of saw palmetto have equal amounts of active ingredients.
Noticed effects often take up to 1 ½ months to see. Recommended daily dosages range from 320 to 1800 mg.
Although it is common to find products combing saw palmetto with other herbs, the FDA warns that various combination products can result in internal bleeding. Consult with your physician before using saw palmetto.