This herbal remedy derives its name from the fruit which has thorns at the end of fleshy stalks, making it look like a claw.  Native to southern Africa, this plant has been used in herbal medicines for thousands of years.  It was first introduced to Europe in the early 1900′s and the dried roots were used for relieving pain and inflammation and to help with digestive disorders.  Today, devil’s claw is used as a digestive tonic and as a long-term herbal remedy for the treatment of joint pain and arthritic conditions.

The parts of devil’s claw that are used to make herbal medicines are called tubers, which are the fleshy, underground stems.  The components responsible for this plant’s medicinal properties are called harpagoside, harpagide and procumbide and are part of the iridoid glycoside family which all act as pain-killers and anti-inflammatories.

Studies conducted with devil’s claw show that this herbal remedy has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties useful in the treatment of fibrositis and fibromyalgia, gout, lumbago, rheumatic disease and other arthritic conditions.  It was noted that devil’s claw was most efficient in treating chronic pain, making it ideal to use over the long-term.  The tubers of the devil’s claw plant also contain flavonoids, which are powerful anti-oxidants with healing properties.  

A study to test the effectiveness of devil’s claw was conducted on 122 people suffering with hip and knee osteo-arthritis.  The devil’s claw herbal medicine not only reduced pain and inflammation, but markedly improved functional ability.  The same effect was reported as that of a leading prescription medicine for osteo-arthritis.  Fewer side effects were also reported amongst people using devil’s claw.

In another study conducted, people who suffered from lower back and neck pain were treated with a standardized devil’s claw herbal medicine for 4 weeks.  These subjects all reported a significant decrease in chronic pain and needed fewer commercial pain killers.  

An brilliant bitters, with a bitters value equaling that of gentian root, devil’s claw is widely used in Europe as a digestive tonic.  This herbal remedy is used to treat gastrointestinal complaints such as dyspeptic symptoms, flatulence and gallbladder disorders.  An infusion made of the roots of devil’s claw can also ease mild digestive disorders such as nausea, stomach upsets and gastric ulcers.

Traditionally, devil’s claw was used to make an ointment used topically to treat minor wounds and skin abrasions, ulcers and boils, but more research into the effectiveness of this herbal remedy as an ointment is needed.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Side effects are rarely reported, but a few cases of headaches and slight digestive discomfort was reported in some patients.  Devil’s claw is nontoxic and at the recommended dosages, is one of the most effective long-term herbal pain relievers.

Devil’s claw should not be used by pregnant or lactating women.

People using blood thinning medication such as Warfarin should not use devil’s claw.  If you are using medication for high blood pressure or any heart disease, do not take devil’s claw.

When purchasing devil’s claw herbal supplements, make sure that it is from a reputable manufacturer, as unpure and unsafe forms have been found in some stores.

The active ingredients in devil’s claw work synergistically, so look for supplements that contain both the raw root powder and the extract of the root.  

For the treatment of pain and inflammation, take 400 mg of the herbal extract three times a day.  

To make an infusion of devil’s claw, use a cup of boiling water with 1.5 g of powdered dried root.  Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, then strain and drink.  

Improvement is usually seen within three to four weeks and you should not use devil’s claw for a period longer than five months.  Discontinue use for a few weeks and then continue taking the herbal medicine at the recommended dosages.

Tags: functional ability, Medicinal plants, prescription medicine, Alternative medicine, high blood pressure

Originally used in the 3rd century BC to remove venom from snake bites, nettle is a valuable herbal medicine used today to treat hay fever and prostrate problems.

Also known as stinging nettle, this plant has fine hairs on the leaves and stems that contain chemicals that sting and burn when it comes in contact with the skin.  An ancient folk remedy suggests that stinging yourself with nettle will relieve pain associated with arthritis.  

Nettle is also a nutritious food that tastes very much like spinach.  It is particularly high in iron and other minerals, vitamin C and is rich in carotenoids.

Common uses for nettle as an herbal medicine include helping the body to remove excess fluid, relieving allergy symptoms, reducing inflammation and pain, easing prostrate symptoms and treating urinary tract infections.

Nettle acts as diuretic, helping your body to rid itself of excess fluid and toxins.  People suffering from urinary tract infections report that it increases urination, which in turn helps to flush infection-causing bacteria out of your body.  Women who suffer from bloating just before their period starts, experience relief after taking nettle herbal supplements.  

One of the most beneficial uses of nettle is treating hay fever.  Histamine is produced by your body in response to allergens and nasal congestion, sneezing and irritated watery eyes are a result of the release of this inflammatory compound.  Nettle is a source of quercetin which is a flavonoid that inhibits the release of histamine.  In a study conducted, more than half of allergy sufferers rated nettle to be an effective herbal remedy for hay fever and associated allergic symptoms.

Another vital benefit of nettle is that it is suitable for men with an enlarged prostate that is not caused by cancer.  This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and occurs when the prostate enlarges and narrows the urethra, which is the tube that transports out of the bladder.  Herbal medicines containing nettle works by slowing down prostate growth.  Studies have shown that nettle is as effective as finasteride, a medication commonly prescribed for BPH.  Combining nettle with other herbal supplements such as saw palmetto is effective at relieving symptoms such as reduced urinary flow, incomplete emptying of the bladder, post urination dripping, and the constant urge to urinate. Nettle is also believed to block the hormonal changes that can contribute to BPH.

More research is needed, but in a preliminary study, nettle helped people who suffer from arthritis by reducing the amount of pain medication needed.  Patients were given 200 mg of diclofenac only (a prescription anti-inflammatory) and compared to a group of patients who were given 55 g of nettle leaves daily along with the prescribed diclofenac.  The group that added the nettle leaves showed a significant decrease in pain and inflammation.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Nettle is considered very safe when used at the recommended doses.   Stomach upsets have been reported and should this occur, lower the dosage or discontinue use for a few days.

Nettle can alter the menstrual cycle and there have been reports of miscarriage, so pregnant women should not use nettle at all.

Please consult your medical practitioner should you experience any prostate problems.  Your doctor can eliminate the possibility of cancer and should then be able to advise you on a safe, herbal treatment such as nettle.

Nettle thins blood, so people using blood thinning medications such as Warfarin should take care when taking nettle supplements.

Nettle lowers blood pressure, so care should be taken when using medications to treat high blood pressure.

When buying herbal supplements containing nettle, make sure that it contains the freeze-dried herb, or an extract standardized to contain 1 percent plant silica which is an active ingredient in nettle.

To treat allergies and hay fever, take 250 mg of standardized extract three times a day as needed.

To help with BPH, use 250 mg of standardized extract twice a day in combination with 160 mg of saw palmetto.

To relieve the pain and inflammation associated with gout and arthritis, take 250 mg of standardized extract three times a day.  You can make a compress of nettle tea and apply this to painful joints.

Take nettle with food to minimize the risk of stomach upsets.  If you are plotting to use nettle as a food, make sure that you cook older leaves to deactivate the stingers.  The young shoots can be eaten raw or added to salads.

Tags: Health Medical Pharma, herbal medicines, nasal congestion, benign prostatic hyperplasia, herbal supplements

The use of grapes, grape leaves and grape seeds as herbal supplements are as ancient as time.

Ancient Greeks and Egyptians realized the value of grapes many thousands of years ago.  Traditional European folk healers used the sap from grapevines to make an ointment to treat skin diseases.  Grape leaves were used to stop bleeding and relieve inflammation.

Researchers today are finding more ways that grapes and grape seeds improve our general health and wellbeing.  

Grape seeds are rich in flavonoids, which are plant substances with powerful anti-oxidant properties that protect cells from free radical hurt.  Free radical hurt occurs when the natural free radicals in your body are increased due to pollution, radiation, smoking and ultraviolet hurt.  This can lead to cell hurt, premature aging and blood vessel disorders.  Grape seed extract contains PCO’s (procyanidolic oligomers), which are believed to have the ability to prevent heart disease and cancer.

Grape seed extract is oil- and water-soluble, meaning that it can penetrate all kinds of cell membranes, making sure that its anti-oxidant properties are released throughout your entire body.  This herbal extract is able to cross the blood-brain barrier protecting brain cells from free radical hurt.  Enhancing the overall health of blood vessels, grape seed extract reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

This anti-oxidant strenghens weakened capillaries and increases blood flow to the extremities, making it useful in treating blood circulation disorders such as Raynaud’s disease.  People who suffer from any kind of vascular insufficiency will benefit from using grape seed extract as it successfully treats varicose veins, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs and even leg cramps.

As it is able to affect even the tiniest of blood vessels, it also benefits the circulation in the eye.  Health care practitioners recommend grape seed extract to prevent and treat macular degeneration, cataracts and night blindness.  If you are a regular computer user, eyestrain caused by the computer monitor will greatly improve.

Tumors form when there is hurt to the genetic material of cells.  Using grape seed extract will help to right the hurt to these cells and will decrease the chances of cancerous tumors forming.  People undergoing chemotherapy can use grape seed extract to minimize the hurt caused by this cancer treatment.

Grape seed extract is also recommended to treat connective tissue disorders as it helps to rebuild and preserve collagen in your skin.  It is for this reason that many skin care products today contain extracts of grape seed.  

If you suffer from allergies, grape seed will lessen the severity of the symptoms.  This herbal extract works by inhibiting the release of histamine, which is a compound responsible for allergic reactions such as hay fever or hives.

Women who suffer from endometriosis find relief from pain and inflammation caused by chemicals known as prostaglandins. Grape seed extract blocks the release of prostaglandins, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.

Grape seed oil should not be confused with grape seed extract, but the oil may offer health benefits as well.  A study conducted in New York at the University Health Science Center found that adding two tablespoons of grape seed oil to the subjects’ daily diet increased the excellent cholesterol (HDL) and reduced triglycerides.

Hurt to the cardiovascular system in people who smoke is reduced with the use of grape seed extract.  High blood pressure can also be treated with the use of this herbal remedy as it helps to repair hurt to blood vessels.

If you have diabetes, grape seed extract can help to regulate your blood sugar levels and also increase vascular function, which is often affected by this disease.

In a recent study it was found that grape seed extract is highly efficient at treating chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), as it reduced the severity and frequency of abdominal pain.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

No side effects or toxic reactions from the use of grape seed extract have ever been reported.  No known interactions exist between grape seed extract and conventional medicines.  

Only about 28 percent of grape seed extract’s active compounds remain in the body after 24 hours.  It is therefore vital to take the herbal supplement at the same time everyday, especially if you are using it to treat a disease.

You can take grape seed supplements with or without food.

For anti-oxidant protection, take 100 mg daily.  To treat disease, take 200 mg daily.  Ensure that you buy grape seed supplements standardized to contain 92-95 percent procyanidolic oligomers (PCO’s).

Tags: brain cells, skin diseases, seed oil, numbness and tingling in the arms, vascular insufficiency

Gotu kola is a favourite food of elephants and because elephants are notoriously long-lived animals, it might have led people to believe that it can prolong life.  Although research has not proven that it can indeed prolong your life, studies have found that this herbal medicine have vital health benefits.

This herbal medicine had its origins in India and today still forms an vital part of an ancient healing tradition called Ayurveda.  Ayurveda is defined as providing an integrated approach to preventing and treating illness through lifestyle interventions and natural therapies.   In France, gotu kola has been prescribed since the 1880′s to treat burns and other skin wounds.

This herb with its bright red flowers thrives in hot, swampy areas and grows naturally in India, Madagascar, middle and southern Africa, Australia, China and the southern United States.  The leaves appearance depends on whether it is growing in water (large, fan-shaped leaves) or on dry land (small and thin leaves).  The leaves are the most vital and most commonly used herbal medicine.

Gotu kola is also known as Centella asiatica, talepetrako, Indian pennywort, Indian water navelwort or hydrocotyle.  Although the names are similar, there is no relationship between gotu kola and the kola (or cola) nut, which is used in cola drinks.  Gotu kola is caffeine free and does not act as a stimulant.

Whether you take gotu kola internally or use it externally, there are many benefits to this herbal medicine.  Some of the common uses include treating burns and wounds, building connective tissue, strengthening veins and improving memory.  This herb’s vital compounds are called triterpenes, which appear to enhance the formation of collagen in cartilage, bones and connective tissue.  In addition, these compounds promote healthy blood vessels and help to produce neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers of the brain.

Gotu kola promotes the healthy development of connective tissue and prevents the formation of hardened areas.  This is what makes this herbal medicine so vital for treating many skin conditions.  It is used as a therapeutic treatment for burns, keloids (overgrown scar tissue) and helps surgical incisions and skin ulcers to heal quicker. Applying gotu kola topically to psoriasis lesions will aid healing.

This herbal remedy is valuable in treating varicose veins by improving blood flow and strengthening cells in the walls of blood vessels.  Studies conducted show that 80 percent of patients with varicose veins had a substantial improvement.  

Patients with heart disease and high blood pressure show improvement when using gotu kola herbal remedies when compared to patients who took a placebo.

Gotu kola has been used for thousands of years to improve mental alertness.   Ongoing research has shown fantastic benefit in using this herb to boost memory, improve learning capability and most importantly, reversing some of the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease.  In one study, mentally disabled children were found to have better concentration and attention levels after taking this herbal supplement for a period of 12 weeks.  Children and adults who have ADD (attention deficit disorder) will also greatly benefit by using gotu kola herbal remedies.  

As a general herbal therapeutic and herbal tonic, gotu kola will improve circulation and boost your concentration levels, making it simpler for you to retain information.  Students and school children benefit by taking this herbal medicine as they are able to concentrate for longer periods and retain more of the material studied.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Internally or externally, gotu kola has small side effects.  Skin rashes, light sensitivity and headaches are rare side effects, should this occur, reduce the dosage.

Pregnant and lactating women should not use gotu kola.

Taking gotu kola for an extended period of time is not recommended.  After taking the herb for a period of 6-8 weeks, stop taking the supplement for a period of 2 weeks and then continue regular use, following this pattern.

Gotu kola has a mild sedative effect and should therefore not be used in conjunction with prescription sedatives.

When purchasing gotu kola supplements, ensure that it is standardized to contain 10 percent asiaticoside, which is an active ingredient in this herb.  If you are unable to find the standardized extract, substitute 400 to 500 mg of the raw herb for each 200 mg dose.

To treat varicose veins, take 200 mg of the standardized extract three times a day.

For burns and other skin wounds, use 200 mg twice a day until the wounds are healed.

To improve memory, concentration and slow the progress of Alzheimer’s disease, take 200 mg standardized extract three times a day.  

Gotu kola can be taken internally or externally with or without meals.  Gotu kola tea can also be applied externally to treat burns and wounds and psoriasis lesions.  You can use both the oral and the topical herbal treatments at the same time.  Make a paste of gotu kola by breaking open a capsule and mixing the dried herb powder in a small amount of water.  This can be applied externally to the skin.

Steep one or two teaspoons of dried gotu kola leaf in a cup of boiled water for 10 to 15 minutes.  Drink one or two cups a day.

Tags: Traditional medicine, treating burns, memory loss, cola nut, varicose veins

Bilberry is a relative of the American blueberry and is a small, shrubby perennial growing in northern Europe.

The first recorded medical use of Bilberry was in the 16th century, when this herbal medicine was used to treat scurvy amongst sailors.

During World War II, British RAF pilots noted that their night vision improved after eating Bilberry preserves. This sparked scientific research into this herb and today Bilberry is used to treat a wide variety of eye disorders.

Bilberry extracts is the leading herbal treatment for managing eye disorders and maintaining healthy vision.

Bilberry assists the retina (the light-sensitive part of the eye) to adapt properly to light and dark. This has made Bilberry a well loved herbal treatment for night blindness.

Bilberry contains chemicals known as anthocyanosides, which increase retinal pigments that allow the eye to tolerate light.

Bilberry plays a significant role in preventing and treating degenerative diseases of the retina by strengthening the capillaries, which are blood vessels in the eye, and by facilitating the delivery of oxygen rich blood to the eyes.

Studies have proved that Bilberry is useful for preventing macular degeneration as well as cataracts. Macular degeneration is a disorder that affects the central part of the retina and cataracts cause loss of transparency of the eye’s lens.

Bilberry has been shown to decrease retinal hurt caused by diabetes or high blood pressure.

Bilberry strengthens collagen, which is a protein that forms the backbone of connective tissue. Therefore Bilberry is a valuable herbal medicine for preventing and treating glaucoma, which is a disease caused by excessive pressure within the eye.

Recent studies have been conducted to prove Aloe’s effectives in treating the skin disorder psoriases. An 83 percent improvement was noted in patients who topically applied Aloe gel 3-4 times daily.

Taking Bilberry can prevent and treat weakened blood vessels and this herbal treatment has been known to relieve chronic venous insufficiency. This disease occurs when valves in the veins responsible for carrying blood back to the heart are weak or hurt and can cause varicose veins, spider veins and can even result in blood clots in the legs.

Bilberry strengthens the walls of blood vessels and not only treats varicose veins but is an effective herbal treatment for hemorrhoids.

The anthocyanosides found in Bilberry is also an herbal treatment for people suffering from poor blood circulation in their extremities.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Bilberry may lower blood sugar levels; therefore caution is advised when using medications to lower blood sugar.

Bilberry should not be taken with any blood thinning medication such as Warfarin.

Care should be taken when using Bilberry with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such ibuprofen.

Research has shown that Bilberry may further lower blood pressure if taken with medicine for high blood pressure.

Bilberry has been used an herbal medicine for hemorrhoids, especially during pregnancy, but please consult your health care practitioner before using any herbal supplement during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

A normal dosage of Bilberry ranges from 40 to 160mg of extract two or three times a day. The lower dose is recommended for long term use, including prevention of macular degeneration. Bilberry can be taken with or without food.

When shopping for Bilberry, choose extracts standardized to contain 25 percent anthocyanosides, which are the active ingredients in this herb.

Higher doses of Bilberry (up to 300mg a day) can be taken by people with diabetes.

Bilberry extracts contain between 100 and 250 times the amount of active ingredients (anthocyanosides) found in fresh Bilberry fruit.

When used with the herb Gotu kola, Bilberrys effects on varicose veins are significantly increased.

Tags: varicose veins, rich blood, treatment for managing eye disorders, herbal medicine, skin disorder psoriases

There are two forms of thyroid disease:
Hyperthyroidism – overactive thyroid
Hypothyroidism – underactive thyroid

Your thyroid gland sits at the base of your throat and consists of two large lobes.  It produces hormones that are essential for the proper functioning and maintenance of all the cells in your body.  When the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroid hormone, a condition known as hyperthyroidism occurs.  On the other hand, when the thyroid gland secretes too small hormone, hypothyroidism occurs.  Hyperthyroidism affects more women than men and women between the ages of thirty and fifty are most affected.   Hypothyroidism is much more common than hyperthyroidism.

The symptoms of these disorders can appear very quickly and often mimics long-term depression.  All of your body’s processes speed up with hyperthyroidism and slows down with hypothyroidism.  Your thyroid gland also acts as a built-in, natural thermostat, regulating your body temperature and it controls how quickly your body burns calories and uses up energy.  

There are three forms of hyperthyroidism that all show several of the same symptoms, the most common form is Graves disease.

Several types of hypothyroidism are known of which the most common is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the thyroid gland.

An abnormal immune response is thought to be the cause of thyroid disorders.  Your immune system produces antibodies that invade and attack your thyroid which then disrupts the normal functioning of the thyroid gland.  Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by growths or tumors that form on the thyroid gland.  Temporary hyperthyroidism is often caused by infection or inflammation of the thyroid gland and certain prescription drugs.  Smoking and a diet high in unsaturated fats can also cause thyroid problems.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)                                                
A constant feeling of being hot and an intolerance to heatIncreased perspirationInsomnia and fatigueIrritability and nervousnessHair and weight lossLess frequent menstruation and decreases menstrual flowRapid heartbeatHand tremorsIncreased bowel movementsSymptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Chronic fatigueLow body temperature and an intolerance to coldElevated cholesterolEasy weight gainSlow heartbeatMuscle weakness and muscle crampsPainful and heavy menstruationFertility problemsDry and scaly skinLoss of appetiteHoarsenessSlow speechDifficulty in concentratingDrooping and swollen eyesLemon balm is helpful to stabilize an overactive thyroid.  The recommended dosage is 300 – 500 mg three times daily.  Steep 2 tablespoons lemon balm in a cup of boiled water. Strain and cool, making sure that you drink the entire cup during the course of one day.Green tea adds extra antioxidant effects.  Use 250 – 500 mg daily of standardized extract, making sure that it is a caffeine-free product.Avoid the following herbs:
Ashwagandha, bladderwrack and Panax ginseng.  These herbs will further stimulate your overactive thyroid thereby making the problem worse. Green tea adds extra antioxidant effects.  Use 250 – 500 mg daily of standardized extract, making sure that it is a caffeine-free product.Use Gugulipid standardized extract 250 – 500 mg three times a day.Use 600 mg one to three times daily of Bladderwrack. Use Coleus standardized extract 50 – 100 mg two to three times a day. 
To determine if you have a thyroid problem, your doctor will do a simple blood test to measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).  This hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland and helps to regulate thyroid hormone production.

Vitamin C and B-complex vitamins are very vital in treating both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.  These vitamins work by improving the function of your immune system and your thyroid gland.  Check for a vitamin B supplement that contains 100 mcg vitamin B12 and biotin, 400 mcg folic acid and 100 mg of all other B vitamins, take one pill of this supplement daily.  A dosage of 1 000 mg vitamin C is recommended.  Also vital is vitamins A and E.  Take a mineral supplement daily that contains magnesium, selenium, zinc and calcium.

An omega-3 fatty acid supplement will help to decrease inflammation.  Take 1-2 capsules daily.

For antioxidant support, take 25 – 50 mg of Alpha-lipoic acid twice daily.

Kelp is one of the most beneficial herbal supplements used to treat thyroid problems, especially if your thyroid disease is caused by an iodine deficiency.  Take 10 grains of powdered kelp daily which will supply 300 mcg iodine.  Make sure that you check the expiry date of the kelp as the iodine content may decline with storage.

The amino acid L-tyrosine plays an vital part in maintaining healthy thyroid function.  Take 500 mg two to three times daily.  It is vital that if you are taking prescription thyroid hormone medication, to check with your health care practitioner before adding an L-tyrosine supplement.  Do not take L-tyrosine if you have high blood pressure.

Do not take an iodine supplement unless recommended and prescribed by your health care practitioner.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is key to treating both thyroid disorders.  Make sure that you drink plenty of water and start with a mild exercise program.  

There is evidence that soy products interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormone, so if you are taking thyroid hormone medication, talk to your doctor before consuming soy products. Eat antioxidant foods, including fruits such as blueberries, cherries, and tomatoes and vegetables.Avoid refined foods, such as white breads, pastas, and sugar.Eat foods high in B-vitamins and iron, such as whole grains.Use olive oil which is a much healthier cooking oil.Avoid alcohol, tobacco and caffeine.Eat fewer red meats and more lean meats.  Supplement your diet with cold-water fish, or beans for protein. Limit the intake of processed meats.Certain foods interfere with thyroid function, these include broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, soybeans, peanuts, linseed, pine nuts, millet, cassava, and mustard greens.Your health care practitioner might want to test you for certain food allergies, but you can also try to eliminate foods that can cause allergies such as dairy products, wheat, preservatives and chemical additives in food.Reduce or eliminate trans-fatty acids.
Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Tags: high blood pressure, Health Medical Pharma, thyroid hormone, body temperature, long-term depression

Licorice was one of the first foods studied by the US National Cancer Institute”s experimental food programme.

Licorice is cultivated in Greece and Turkey and is a member of the pea family. The medicinal properties are in the roots which contain glycyrrhizin.

This herbal medicine is also used as a curing and flavouring agent in the tobacco industry.

The medicinal component of Licorice, glycyrrhizin, has been shown in several studies to have antiviral activity against the human immunodeficiency virus. (HIV)

Licorice is also beneficial for people suffering from respiratory problems because it fights the viruses that attack the respiratory tract. This herbal medicine relieves symptoms such as coughing, a sore throat and it also helps to thin mucus.

Licorice is often used by dieticians to treat fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and other disorders affected by the body’s levels of cortisol, an adrenal hormone.

Studies have shown that Licorice is beneficial for hepatitis, combating liver infection and fighting the virus that triggers the disease.

Another form of Licorice, DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is helpful in cases of heartburn, stomach ulcers and inflammatory bowel disease.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

People who suffer from high blood pressure should not take Licorice as this herbal medicine acts on the adrenal glands, increasing blood pressure.

Individuals consuming large amounts of Licorice can suffer from sodium and water retention.

A dose of 200mg Licorice three times a day is recommended for most disorders, but for digestive complaints, 380mg of DGL three times a day is recommended.

Tags: Dietary supplements, experimental food programme, immunodeficiency virus hiv, Potassium in biology, Alternative medicine

Hawthorn is a shrub that can grow up to nine meters high, and in Europe and America it was used for centuries as a divider along the edges of property lines.

Hawthorn produces pretty white flowers and bright red berries, but it also grows large thorns and the flowers can smell like rotting meat.

The use of Hawthorn as a modern herbal medicine started in the 19th century when an Irish physician treated heart disease very successfully using Hawthorn.

Hawthorn is an herbal medicine that directly benefits the workings of the heart. Hawthorn dilates blood vessels, increases the heart’s energy supply and improves the heart’s pumping ability.

The reason behind Hawthorn’s effectiveness is an abundant supply of compounds called flavonoids which function as potent antioxidants.

Hawthorn widens arteries by interfering with the workings of an enzyme called ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme), which constricts blood vessels. By increasing blood flow to the arteries, Hawthorn is an brilliant herbal remedy for people who suffer from angina or high blood pressure.

Hawthorn can be used by people who suffer from mild congestive heart failure as this herbal medicine blocks enzymes that weaken the heart muscle.

Several studies have shown that Hawthorn is effective to treat cardiac arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat.

People who suffer from shortness of breath and fatigue due to heart failure reported that these symptoms improved dramatically with the use of Hawthorn.

Hawthorn has powerful antioxidant properties, which makes it a well loved herbal medicine used to treat atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fatty materials, also called plaques, in blood vessels that can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attacks. Plaque buildup in arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain can result in stroke.

A tincture made from the berries of the Hawthorn plant is used as an herbal medicine to remove LDL, or “terrible” cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Hawthorn is also considered to have mildly calming effects on the nervous system which is useful considering that stress and nervousness often accompany cardiovascular problems.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

People who do not suffer from heart disease should not use Hawthorn as it can cause very low blood pressure which in turn can cause dizziness and fainting.

Hawthorn has been found safe to use in conjunction with other conventional medications prescribed to treat heart disease.

Hawthorn has been given a class 1 safety rating by the American Herbal Products Association, which indicated that it is a very safe herbal medicine.

Side-effects have been very rare, but can include headache, sweating, nausea and fatigue.

Do not use Hawthorn if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Hawthorn can enhance the activity of Digoxin, a medication used for irregular heart rhythms.

How do I use Hawthorn?

Depending on the type of heart condition, dosages of Hawthorn range from 300 to 450 mg a day in pill form and from one teaspoon to one tablespoon of Hawthorn tincture daily.

People at risk of heart disease can take a 100 to 150 mg preventative dose daily.

To decrease the symptoms of heart failure, take 160 to 900 mg Hawthorn for at least 6 weeks. These dosages should be standardized to contain 2-3 percent flavonoids and 1, 8 percent standardized extract of vitexin.

If you have to take large doses of Hawthorn, it works better to divide the daily recommended amount into three dosages.

Hawthorn can take a couple of months to build up in your system and to produce noticeable results.

When purchasing Hawthorn, make sure that it contains at least 1, 8 percent standardized extract of vitexin, which is the main heart-protective ingredient in this herbal medicine.

Tags: potent antioxidants, chest pain, europe and america, shortness of breath, high blood pressure

Cayenne has been used for centuries to add a spicy and fiery taste to food and Native Americans used it as a spice and a painkiller for over 9000 years.  This pepper is a cousin of the sweet peppers generally used in salads as well as the hot peppers used in chilli powder and hot sauces.  It has no relation to common black pepper.

What gives the pepper its hot taste and value as an herbal medicine, is capsaicin, which is an oily chemical that is used in pepper sprays that are sold for self-defence.  The capsaicin is also responsible for the pepper’s pain relieving properties and aids digestion.

Cayenne also contains vitamins A and C, and flavonoids and carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants.

When applied topically, cayenne has powerful pain relieving properties.  It works by reducing a component in nerve cells called substance P, which transmits pain impulses to the brain.  When substance P is depleted, messages of pain no longer reach the brain and the user gets temporary relief from the pain of arthritis and even shingles.

Capsaicin creams will bring relief to people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis as well as joint or muscle pain.  Nerve pain caused by shingles will also be relieved when applying a cayenne herbal cream. Using a cayenne topical ointment will relieve nerve hurt experienced in the feet or legs (peripheral neuropathy) due to diabetes and people who have had an amputation often find relief from lingering pain after surgery.  

The itching sensation that accompanies psoriasis follows the same nerve pathways as that of pain.  When applied topically, cayenne herbal creams may reduce the itching associated with psoriasis.  Raynaud’s disease is characterized by numbness, tingling and a drop in temperature in the affected areas.  Cayenne creams have a “heating” effect on the affected areas and so relieves the aches and pain associated with this disease.

Cayenne herbal supplements can be used to treat mild high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol levels. Herbal medicines containing cayenne prevent platelets from clumping together and accumulating in the blood, which allows blood to flow more easily.

Based on recent studies, cayenne is being researched as a weight-loss supplement.  In animal studies and some human studies it has shown to affect the way the body breaks down carbohydrates, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels after a meal.

Tablets and capsules containing cayenne stimulate digestion and can help to relieve wind and ulcers.  Herbal supplements containing this herbal remedy increases blood flow in the stomach and bowel and promotes the secretion of digestive juices.  

Cayenne herbal remedies are also available in liquid form and can be used as a gargle to soothe the pain and inflammation of a sore throat.  Nose sprays containing cayenne have been shown to relieve congestion and fight colds, and some people find relief from the severe pain of cluster headaches.  These herbal medicines should only be used under a health care practitioner’s supervision.

Herbal medicines containing capsaicin can be safely used with prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and other medications to relieve pain associated with arthritic conditions.  Combining cayenne herbal preparations may help to cut down on the use of prescription medicines, which can lessen unwanted side-effects of conventional medicines.  This should only be done under the supervision of your health care practitioner.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

Never use cayenne products on raw skin or open wounds as this will cause a severe burning sensation.

Cayenne herbal creams can cause intense pain and burning when it comes into contact with your eyes.  Wash the affected areas with water or milk to counteract the burning.  

A mildly unpleasant burning sensation can occur during the first few days of treatment.  This side effect does disappear after several days or regular use.

People who use anti-coagulant medicine such as Warfarin, should not take cayenne herbal supplements as it will enhance the effects of blood thinning medication.

If taken internally, cayenne herbal medications can cause stomach pain and diarrhoea.  Capsaicin can also cause a burning sensation when passing stool.

People suffering from asthma should avoid cayenne herbal supplements as regular use increases the absorption of theophylline which is a medication used to treat asthma.

Pregnant and lactating women should not take cayenne herbal remedies.

Cayenne products can cause skin sensitivity, so it is recommended that you apply the cream or ointment to a small area for at least 1 week, should you experience no undesired side effects, you can continue regular use of the herbal medicine.

Make sure that you wash your hands very well with warm, soapy water to avoid getting the product into your eyes.  If you are applying the herbal cream to relieve pain in your hands, leave it on for 30 minutes and then only wash it off.

For external use, the recommended dosage of cayenne herbal creams or ointments is 0,025 per cent to 0,075 per cent capsaicin for daily use.  For pain relief, apply the herbal remedy thinly over the affected areas at least three to four times a day, rubbing it in well.  It may take 2-3 weeks for the pain to completely subside.

It is best to take cayenne pills or tinctures with food to avoid any stomach upsets.  

Tags: herbal medicine, pain in your hands, rheumatoid arthritis, herbal remedies, black pepper

White willow bark comes from the white willow tree, which can grow up to 23 meters tall.  This tree is native to Europe and Asia and the name “white willow” comes from the leaves, which are covered with fine white hairs.

Chinese herbalists used this natural pain killer for centuries and in the 18th century Western medicine recognized white willow as a pain reliever and fever reducer.  European settlers brought the white willow tree to North America, where they learned that the local people were already using some of the native willow species to alleviate pain and fight fevers.

German and French scientists isolated the plant”s active ingredient – salicin – in 1828.  A decade later, European chemists manufactured salicylic acid, a chemical related to aspirin, from salicin.  Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, was later made from another herb containing salicin.  At the end of the 19th century, the Bayer company had started to commercially produce aspirin.

Concentrations of salicin are highest in the bark of the white willow and Salix alba is the most well loved species used for medicinal purposes.

The salicin that comes from white willow bark is metabolized in your body to form salicylic acid, which reduces inflammation, pain and fever.  Even though this herb is slower acting than aspiring, the beneficial effects of white willow bark last longer and has fewer side effects than aspirin.  The most vital fact is that white willow bark does not cause stomach bleeding like commercially available aspirin.

White willow bark is most effective at relieving headaches and severe muscle pain.  The symptoms that are commonly associated with flu (fever, muscle aches, headache) are also greatly relieved when you use white willow bark.

White willow bark is also very effective in alleviating toothache.

Research conducted proved that people who suffer from osteoarthritis benefit from using low doses of white willow bark daily to relieve chronic pain associated with this debilitating condition.  White willow bark reduces the swelling and inflammation associated with rheumatic conditions and increases joint mobility.

Women will also benefit by taking white willow bark as it eases the pain of menstrual cramps.  Hormone-like chemicals called prostaglandins cause the pain associated with the menstrual cycle and the salicin in white willow bark helps to regulate these hormones.

Recently, white willow bark has become well loved as a weight loss herbal supplement.  On its own, white willow bark extract offers small benefits, but combined with other dietary supplements it is thought to increase the thermogenic activity of several other stout burning products by increasing energy expenditure and promoting stout metabolism.

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

High doses of white willow bark can cause stomach upsets, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and nausea.  If any of these side effects occur, lower the dosage or stop taking the herb.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take willow bark.

White willow bark has an anti-coagulant effect and people using blood-thinning medication such as Warfarin should not take this herbal remedy.

People who are using beta-blockers for high blood pressure should not take white willow bark as it may make the drugs less effective.

Do not use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen with white willow bark as it might increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Do not give white willow bark to children under the age of 16 as it can cause a potentially fatal brain and liver condition known as Reye”s syndrome.

Make sure that you buy white willow bark extract standardized to contain 15% salicin.  Do not buy white willow bark tea, as you would need to consume several liters to get an effective dose.

To reduce pain and inflammation and lower a fever take one or two pills three times a day, or as needed.  Follow the instructions given by your health care practitioner.

White willow bark is safe to use over the long term.  It has a very bitter taste, so the most convenient way to take it is in pill form.

Tags: muscle aches, french scientists, menstrual cramps, beneficial effects, North America