Know Your Herbs

Alfalfa

The richest land source of trace minerals. A builder, cleaner, infection fighter. Breaks down poisonous carbon dioxide.

Astragalus

Astragalus root is yet another immune supportive Chinese herb. It is found in many immune-boosting formulas, as it is known for its antiviral properties. The root stimulates several elements of the immune system - phagocytic activity of monocytes and macrophages, interferon production and T-cell activity. Interferon alerts white blood cells that bacteria or viruses are invading the body. It also stimulates production of digestive enzymes that consume attacking organisms and halt their spread.

Basil

The old herbalists used basil for it sedative effect, relieving headaches and alleviate bad breath. Basil is also high in antioxidants, plus it contains five compounds proven to have anti-arthritic value. Basil apply on the skin is also effective against warts.

Bay Leaves

Bay is traditionally used to strengthen the digestive organs, to expel gas, and to ease cramps. The oil can be used on the skin for reheunmatism, bruises, and skin problems. Used as a tea, bay leaves is extremely useful in preventing migraine, and help the body use insulin more efficiently.

Bee Pollen

Useful for combating fatigue, depression, and allergies. Good for strengthening the immune system, and colon disorders.

Black Cohosh

Many women are prevented from participating in hormone replacement therapy as treatment for menopause. The cimicifuga plant has a mild estrogen-like action, has been shown in numerous studies to be both safe and effective, and is widely used in Europe and the US to relieve the symptoms commonly associated with PMS and menopause (particularly hot flashes, menstrual cramps and even depression). American Indians used this herb for inflammation of rheumatism and in relieving muscle spasms. "

Other possible benefits include relaxation, reducing pain caused by neuralgia, relaxing bronchial tubes, quelling coughs, promoting labor and easing delivery. Tonic for the central nervous system. It also loosens and expels mucous of the bronchial tubes, stimulates secretions of the lymphatic system, liver and kidneys. Neutralized poisons in the bloodstream. Equalizes blood circulation.Caution: Do not use during pregnancy until labor and only under a doctor’s supervision. Large doses can cause symptoms of poisoning. 

Black Walnut

Oxygenates the blood to kill parasites. It is used to help balance sugar levels. It also is able to burn up excessive toxins and fatty materials.

Blessed Thistle

Increases appetite and stomach secretions. Helps in healing the liver. Alleviates inflammation, improves circulation, purifies the blood, and strengthens the heart. Also aids milk flow in nursing mothers.

Bilberry

Widely recognized for its antioxidant properties, and its particularly effective for eye disorders. Besides its antioxidant action, bilberry has anti-inflammatory factors, anti-clotting factors, and several properties which result in a collagen-stabilizing effect. this effect strengthens the veins by restoring the connective sheath which surrounds them. In turn, new capillaries and collagen fibrils are formed. In addition, the capillary permeability and fragility are decreased. Together these functions protect against pain, blood pooling, clotting, and swelling. Besides varicose veins and other venous conditions, bilberry has been used to treat diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataract.  

Burdock Root

One of the best blood purifiers. Used to reduce swelling around joints, rid calcification deposits, clears blood of harmful acids.

Butcher's Broom

This herb has a long history of the use in the treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Also works as an anti-inflammatory and with arthritis.

Cranberry

Recent research indicates that cranberries inhibit the ability of bacteria to adhere to the tissues of the bladder and urethra.

Cayenne

Called the "supreme and harmless internal disinfectant." Rebuilds tissue in the stomach and helps heal stomach and intestinal ulcers. Known as the purest and best stimulant in the herb kingdom. Works as a catalyst, carrying all the other herbs quickly to the part of the body where they are needed most. Also helps to lower the risk of blood clotting by inhibiting platelet aggregation and enhancing fibrinolytic (splitting of fibrin) activity and exerts a cardiotonic effect expressed as a normalizing of blood pressure.

Cascara Sagrada

Rich in oils which promote peristaltic action (the movement that cause us to eliminate) in the intestinal tract. Increases the secretions of the stomach, liver, pancreas and has been effective in helping gallstones and hemorrhoids.

Chasteberry also known as Vitex

Inhibits prolactin secretion, restores normal menstrual cycle and helps with PMS and Menopause.

Chamomile

This herb may relieve upset stomachs, colds, bronchitis, bladder troubles, dropsy, and jaundice. It is also helpful in regulating the menstrual cycle, rheumatic pains, headaches, and hysteria. It has been traditionally used as a sleep inducer and mild sedative. it is effective for colic in infants and is a good remedy for a child's fever and restlessness.

Chickweed

Helps to heal stomach ulcers and inflamed bowels. Helps to dissolve plaque and fatty substances in the system. It strengthens the stomach and bowels.

Charcoal

Activated Charcoal is one of the finest natural absorbent agents known. Each particle contains many small chambers and cavities that "capture" or bind up unwanted materials and gas. The charcoal then carries it safely through the digestive system.

Citrus Aurantium

Citrus Aurantium has been used in Chinese medicine to treat indigestion and chest congestion, to stimulate gastrointestinal function and to improve circulation and liver function. Scientists have discovered that citrus aurantium contains a unique composition of five amines that stimulate weight loss, build lean muscle and improve physical performance.

Cranberry

Cranberry has been traditionally used to treat bacterial bladder infections. Inhibit the ability of bacteria to adhere to the tissues of the bladder and urethra.

Damiana

Has an reputation for increasing sexual activity in women. This reputation extends over hundreds of years, dating as far back as the ancient Mayans. Damiana leaf contains various values that have been known to stimulating effects on the sexual apparatus, help build sexual and female health.

Dandelion

One of the greatest liver herbs known. It stimulates the liver to detoxify poisons. Promotes healthy circulation, strengthens weak arteries.It is useful for treating dropsy, fever, inflammation of the bowels, infectious hepatitis, edema resulting from liver problems, rheumatism, gout, and stiff joints.

Devil's Claw

Appetite stimulation for weight gain. Possible anti-inflammatory effects. Due to this herb's stimulation of gastric secretion, those with stomach or duodenal ulcers should avoid its use.

Dong Quai

Nicknamed the "female ginseng," Dong Quai is an all-purpose herb for many female gynecological complains. Chinese women used it to regulate menstrual cycles and quell cramps. Modern herbalists use it for PMS and not flashes. Possible benefits include restoring menstrual regularity, reducing PMS, relieving symptoms of menopause, preventing anemia and reducing high blood pressure.

Echinacea

This purple coneflower plant was first used by the American Indians of the Great Plains as a remedy for wounds and snakebites. Excellent immune-system-building herb. It stimulates the immune response, especially the production of white blood cells, increasing the body's ability to resist infections. Improves lymphatic drainage, removes toxins from the blood. They also used the root for toothaches and sore throats. It has been one of the better-researched herbs in Europe.

Because of its positive effects on the immune system, there is renewed interest in the United States. Possible benefits include boosting the immune system, healing skin wounds, fighting bacterial and viral infection and shorting the duration of colds, and flu. It should be taken in limited amounts, not more than five to seven days because the body can become immune to the herb.

Evening Primrose (GLA)

Anti-inflammatory. Rich source of gamma linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid. May lower cholesterol and help prevent clots. May alleviate eczema and PMS.

Fennel Seed

Used for colic, gas and intestinal problems. Helps stabilize the nervous system, improves digestion, and has a diuretic effect.

Fenugreek

Has the ability to soften and dissolve hardened masses of accumulated mucous. Helps to expel toxic waste through the lymphatic system and mucous, phlegm and infections from the lungs.

FeverFew

Works as an Anti-inflammatory, reduces the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.

Flaxseed Oil

A healthy way to add essential fatty acids to your diet. Contains healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that, among other functions, aid in repair of connective tissue., lower the risks of heart, skin, kidney and inflammatory diseases.

Fo-Ti

Fo-Ti is commonly used in China as an adaptogen and liver, kidney and bladder tonic. It also helps balance the nervous system and is considered a sexual tonic for men and women. Fo-Ti also help to increase sports performance, oxygen, endurance and recovery time.

Garlic

The ancient Egyptians fed garlic to their slaves to keep them healthy. Dubbed a wonder herb, it has been for everything from the treatment of ear infections to prevention of heart disease and cancer. It has even been used to treat tuberculosis. Before the advent of antibiotics, garlic was used to disinfect wounds and prevent gangrene. It has been used as an anticoagulant and has been shown to lower cholesterol while increasing the level of beneficial HDLs. Garlic has often been recommended in place of aspirin for heart health. Because it inhibits the tendency of blood to clot, and it doesn't have any side effects. It also lowers blood pressure, can destroy some types of cancer cells, is an excellent digestive aid, helps fight infection and relieves gas.

Caution: garlic should not be used by women who are breast-feeding since it can cause colic in infants.

Ginkgo Biloba

An ancient Chinese herb, ginkgo is one of the best-researched herbs in the world. Studies show that it increases blood flow to the brain and lower extremities. It has been shown to improve memory and relieve signs of senility. It also helps prevent blood clots and has been used for circulation problems such as phlebitis. Other studies have found it helped patients with vertigo and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. It also is an antioxidant, slowing the formation of free radicals. It may slow aging, help prevent cancer and relieve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Ginseng

Literally meaning "root of man," named because the root of the plant resembles the shape of a human body, this herb has been used by the Chinese for more than 5,000 years. For the past 20 years, it has been called the "wonder herb," with athletes attesting to its giving them the edge and women claiming it alleviates hot flashes. Possible benefits include increased physical and mental endurance, helping the body to adjust to stressful situations, reducing discomfort caused by menopause, inhibiting growth of cancerous tumors and enhancing sexual desire.

Ginger Root

Excellent for the respiratory system. Very good for fighting off colds and flu. Ginger has been shown effective as a natural alternative for morning and motion sickness. Used in the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases such as arthritis. Also used as a cleansing agent to the bowels, kidneys and skin. Reduces fever and helps with stomachaches and digestion.

Goldenseal

This herb has very positive effect on the mucous membranes and body tissues. It is excellent for all catarrh conditions, whether of the throat, nose, bronchial passages, intestines, stomach, or bladder.

Gotu Kola

A rejuvenating brain tonic, is similar to ginseng in that it also acts as an adaptogen. It is considered a nervous system restorative and relaxant and also increases blood flow by strengthening the arteries and veins.

Grape Seed

A potent antioxidant and free radical fighter. Free radical damage is involved in over 80 degenerative diseases.

Green Tea

Antioxidant, prevents plaque buildup, acts as a diuretic and stomachic.

Guarana

A Xanthines alkaloid is a type of caffeine source from plants. The Xanthines alkaloid or natural caffeine has shown a pronounced thermogenic effect over synthetic caffeine.

Gugulipid

This is a medicinal plant in India for over 2,00 years. The Indian Journal of Medicine has reported that participants taking standardized gugulipid daily increased their HDL (good cholesterol) by 35% in 16 weeks. It also acts as an antioxidant and may inhibit clotting. Guggulipid also has thyroid-stimulating activity. Increased circulating thyroid hormone levels can help facilitate the loss of body fat.

Gymnema Sylvestre

Insulin secretion stimulant. Helps reduce the amount of sugar the body can absorb, this is why it's called the sugar blocker. Also helps glycosuria and other urinary disorders.

Hawthorn Berries

An overall health support herb. Has been used for centuries for heart ailments. It is believed that regular use strengthens the heart muscles, dilates blood vessels, increases enzyme metabolism in heart muscle. Scientific investigation has also found Hawthorn to be helpful for insomnia, for alleviating irregular heart rhythm.

Hops

Works as an sleep aid. Sedative, antimicrobial, relieve pain, treats digestive tract disorders involving spasms of the smooth muscle.

Horse Chestnut

This herbal extract has been used to promote leg vein circulation in Europe for many years. It protects against and reduces leg swelling and has no known side effects.

Horsetail

Used in urinary tract disorders. Horsetail tones organs of the urinary tract and soothes the bladder. Has a diuretic effect upon the body. It is high in silicon, which directly aids and supports the skin and hair.

Juniper Berries

Acts as a diuretic, helps to regulate blood sugar levels, and relieves inflammation and congestion.

Kava Kava

The root of this plant is made into a popular beverage in Polynesia called sakau. Herbalists traditionally use it for nervousness and insomnia. It is also a mild diuretic. It is touted to help sleep, promote relaxation, relieves both muscle cramping and menstrual cramping and reduce water retention. Use only occasionally, daily high used, can cause liver damage. Studies show it helps with long-term memory and promotes calmness without compromising mental alertness and help reduce pain that comes from being stress-out.

Licorice Root

This herb is helpful for alleviating such ailments as inflamed stomach, bronchitis, sore throat, coughs, irritations of the bowel and kidney, and indigestion. Known as the "great detoxifier" because of its ability to support and protect the liver - the body's detoxifier or filter. It also contains a female hormone that has an estrogenic action. Insufficient estrogen causes among others conditions such as hot flashes, P.M.S, anxiety, and lack of energy, but can also delayed sexual maturation as well. Licorice is also an antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

Maitake Mushroom

The majority of maitake research has centered on cancer prevention and treatment. It has also been used successfully for other immune dysfunction including HIV/AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, Epstein-Barr, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, it is successful in lowering blood pressure, treating hepatitis B, and controlling diabetes. A general stimulant to the immune system, it protects the body against toxic insult and serves as a comprehensive health tonic, having many of the same effects as adaptogens such as ginseng.

Marshmallow

Another mucilage herb which helps remove the hardened phlegm in the intestinal tract as well as the lungs and other parts of the body. A great healing herb. Research

Milk Thistle

Is one of the most potent liver-protecting herbs known. Prevents liver destruction and enhances liver function by inhibiting free radicals and leukotrienes. It stimulates liver protein synthesis and is an all-around liver support.Used extensively in Europe as a tonic for the liver, numerous European studies show this herb enhances liver function and stimulates the production of new liver cells. Benefits include increasing production of bile which is used to break down fats. It can be beneficial for those suffering from hepatitis, inflammation of the liver or cirrhosis of the liver and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Muira Puama

This herb is found in South America. It is known as the potency wood. This herb has long been used to increase potency in males and as an aid for prostate functions and poor circulation. A proper function prostate gland and good circulation is essential to a man's sexual performance.

Nettle

A diuretic, expectorant, pain reliever, and tonic. Contains vital minerals that are essential in many disorders. Improves goiter, inflammatory conditions, and mucous condition of the lungs.

Oregano

Use by many herbalists for indigestion, coughs, headaches, and to promote menstruation. Oregano also has the greatest anti-oxidant activity.

Parsley

German FDA has approved parsley for the treatment of kidney stones. Also used for bladder infections, tender breasts, mild diuretic and bone-builder.

Pau d'Arco

Also known as Lapacho. Lapacho has been used for many years as a standard treatment for some kinds of cancer and all types of infections. This herb is also used against viruses, fungi, parasites, and some bacteria. Lapacho is best known and most widely used in the U.S. for its antimicrobial activity against intestinal and vaginal Candida albicans infections. This herb can also be used topically on fungal infections of the toe and fingernails. (Soak toes and fingers in lapacho tea a couple of times a day for several weeks).

Peppermint

Is used for many ailments, the oil brings oxygen into the bloodstream. It cleans and strengthens the entire body. especially the bowels. Peppermint is also used against liver complaints, nausea, seasickness, vomiting, dizziness, colic, diarrhea, and such heart problems as palpitations.

Psyllium husk

Is used worldwide and is matched by no other to cleanse and lubricate the intestines and colon. It is said to be very good for auto-intoxication, by cleansing the intestines and removing the toxins. Used for all intestinal troubles.

Red Clover

A very strong blood purifier. It is used as a tonic for the nerves and as a sedative for nervous exhaustion. Traditionally, the blossoms from this plant were used as a tonic consumed in spring to promote good health and peace of mind. It has been used as a muscle relaxer, an expectorant and a remedy for eczema. Possible benefits include calming coughs, cleaning the chest of phlegm, helping skin inflammations, relaxation, helping fight cancerous growths and improving overall health. Warning: Patients should seek professional help before using this or any other herb to treat tumors and cancer.

Red Raspberry

Decreases menstrual bleeding and menstrual cramps, relaxes uterine and intestinal spasms, and strengthens the uterine walls. Also promotes healthy nails, bones, teeth, and skin.

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi may be the king of mushrooms. Reishi, like shiitake, contains beta1,3 glucan, but its health benefits go beyond immune enhancing, antiviral, and anti-tumor capacities. Reishi is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, blood pressure regulating, cardiovascular supporting, cholesterol reducing, blood sugar moderating, a tonic to kidneys, liver, and nerves, a reliever of respiratory complaints, and stress reducing. (Only "sexual potentiator" is missing, an honor that belongs uniquely to shiitake). 

Sarsaparilla

Also known as smilax. Several years ago, researchers at Pennsylvania State College found three hormones in the sarsaparilla plant - testosterone, progesterone, and cortin. 

Saw Palmetto

Prostate disorders. Anti-inflammatory, antiandrogenic, treats conditions associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Helps in reducing the symptoms of prostate enlargement such as nighttime urination, flow rate, and the amount of urine remaining in the bladder.

Shiitake Mushroom

This popular gourmet mushroom, has a history of use as a remedy such as: helping upper respiratory distress, poor circulation, liver problems, and the relief of ordinary exhaustion and weakness. Shiitake has been studied for many years by the Institute of Mushroom Research in Tokyo, and has been found effective for treating high cholesterol, gallstones, hyperactivity, stomach ulcers, diabetes, vitamin deficiency anemia, and even the common cold. It is also credited with augmenting the antiviral activity of AZT.

Siberian Ginseng

Generally exerts offsetting catabolic and anabolic action on carbohydrates, lipids and protein metabolism, acting as an adrenal tonic because of its anti-fatigue property. Stress is controlled by the adrenal glands through the secretion of adrenaline and glucocorticoid hormones. Ginseng produces an immediate increase in adrenal cortical capacity and output in response to stress.

Skullcap

Is used for all disorders of the nervous system, including hysteria, convulsions, tremors, and palsy. It is also good for aches and pains, rheumatism, epilepsy, poisonous insert and snake bites, children's fever, and female cramps.

Slippery Elm

Is used to neutralize stomach acidity and absorbs foul gases and toxins. It draws out impurities and heals and soothes all parts of the body. Especially the mucous membranes, adrenal glands, stomach, bowels, lungs

St. John’s Wort

According to legend dating to the Middle Ages, this plant sprang from John the Baptist’s blood when he was beheaded. Possible benefits include decreasing anxiety, healing skin wounds, helping the body fight viral infection and relief of uterine cramping. In Germany. Commission E (the equivalent of the FDA in the United States) long age approved the use of St. John’s Wort as safe and effective for the treatment of mental disturbances including depression, anxiety and nervous unrest.

Turmeric

The yellow-orange color of turmeric comes from yellow pigment found in the rhizomes called curcumin. Supplements standardized to curcumin are now found in the market. Specific complaints for which turmeric has been shown effective include peptic ulcers, artherosclerosis, and alcohol induced liver toxicity. In one clinical study of smokers, curcumin was found to reduce the incidence of cell mutation. The anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric has been compared to that of topical hydrocortisone.

Tribulus Terrestris

This herbal Non-steroid enhances testosterone levels by increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. LH in turn signals the pituitary gland to naturally produce more testosterone.

Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi is helpful in support of urinary ailments, Diuretic, wound healing, and vaginal infections.

Wild Yam

Wild Yam is useful in support of irritated or nervous bowel problems, diverticulitis (colon inflammation), asthma, bronchitis, used for synthesis of birth control pills (herb alone does not prevent conception), rheumatic pains, biliary colic, pains of gallstones, menstrual cramps, abdominal and intestinal cramps, chronic gas or flatulence, and Myalgia (nerve inflammation). It is also used to relieve cramps during pregnancy, help morning sickness, and prevent miscarriage. Wild Yam may act as a precursor to steroidal hormones. It removes mucous from the lungs and head. Research

Willow Bark

Contains salicin, which is the precursor to aspirin. It is a fine addition to aspirin but it is not a substitute for fevers. Aids in digestion or otherwise affect the action of aspirin.

Yarrow

Acts as a blood cleanser, opens the pores to permit free perspiration for elimination of waste, relieving the kidneys. It also helps to regulate the function of the liver, tones the mucous membranes of the stomach and bowel, heals the glandular system.

Yohimbe Bark

Yohimbe is the inner bark of an African tree. This Yohimbe bark has been used for years as a prescription drug Yohimbine for increasing the male hormone "testosterone". The people of Africa have long known Yohimbe as an effective rejuvenator. The African natives have used the Yohimbe bark for centuries, to increase sexual functions, impotence, and the ability to provide children to the age of 70 and older. Yohimbe works directly on the sex center of the brain as well as other organs.

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS

Apple fiber, oat bran, rice bran, wheat bran

Excellent source of fiber that provide the digestive and eliminative systems the proper bulk needed to sweep, clean and tone the bowel. These fibers help to quicken the transit time of waste elimination.

Glucomannan

Sources of water soluble, gel-forming fibers. These fibers are excellent promoters of bowel regularity. Gel-forming properties are responsible for lowering cholesterol by binding the cholesterol and bile acids in the digestive system and promoting their excretion.

Acidophilus

A source of friendly intestinal bacteria that is vital for a healthy bowel. Synthesizes nutrients in the intestinal tract, while counteracting harmful bacteria and micro-organisms that disturb proper digestion and elimination. A necessary ingredient in restoring and cleaning the colon.