Home Farm Herbery

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 2 ©

By Arlene Wright-Correll

Apple Pectin, in the diets of humans and lab animals, has been shown to increase the excretion of lipids, cholesterol and bile acids, and reduce serum cholesterol levels. Pectin operates by binding with bile acids, thereby decreasing cholesterol and fat absorption.

Official Latin Name: Malus sylvestris

Apple Pectin is a source of water soluble fiber which has a gel-forming effect when mixed with water. As a dietary fiber, Apple Pectin is helpful in maintaining good digestive health. Pectin is defined as any of a group of white, amorphous, complex carbohydrates that occurs in ripe fruits and certain vegetables. Fruits rich in Pectin are the peach, apple, currant, and plum. Protopectin, present in unripe fruits, is converted to Pectin as the fruit ripens.

Pectin forms a colloidal solution in water and gels on cooling. When fruits are cooked with the correct amount of sugar, and when the acidity is optimum and the amount of Pectin present is sufficient, jams and jellies can be made. In overripe fruits, the Pectin becomes pectic acid, which does not form jelly with sugar solutions. An indigestible, soluble fiber, Pectin is a general intestinal regulator that is used in many medicinal preparations, especially as an anti-diarrhea agent.

Our ancestors believed that old proverb "An apple a day keeps the doctor away". Today, nutritional scientists research for evidences that verify how Apples are good for our health. Apples are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber, which is effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Apples work in any form (raw fruit or powder or juice) to maintain good cardiovascular health. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that Apple Pectin acts as an antioxidant against the damaging portion of cholesterol in the blood stream.

Many researchers suggest that people who eat fatty foods should, if possible, wash down this food with apple juice rather than the usual drink. Researchers have found that raw Apples are the richest of fruits in pectin, with the Jonagold variety of Apple leading other varieties. A diet of low fiber, high fat, and animal protein appears to be the leading cause of death in many people. It has been established that a diet rich in Apple Pectin can protect against these diseases.

Research in Japan has found that Apple Pectin can also decrease the chances of colon cancer. Apple Pectin helps maintain intestinal balance by cleansing the intestinal tract with its soluble and insoluble fibers.

Apple Pectin tends to increase acidity in the large intestines, and is advocated for those suffering from ulcer or colitis, and for regulating blood pressure. Pectin is also effective in causing regressions in, and preventing, gallstones. There is also evidence that the regular use of Apple Pectin may lessen the severity of diabetes. Along these lines, it has been suggested that fiber-depleted diets actually help cause diabetes mellitus. Other studies have shown that the regular consumption of Apple Pectin could lead to permanent reductions in insulin requirements (to prevent the possibility of insulin overdose, diabetics should make their physician aware of the dietary change).

Arctic Root is native to Siberia and Europe, and has been used there for the treatment of a multitude of ailments, including anemia, depression, fatigue, impotence, and infections. Arctic Root has been shown to improve cognitive function, athletic performance, and sexual function.

Official Latin Name: Rhodiola rosea

Arctic Root, also known as Golden Root, Rhodiola Root, Roseroot, and Crenulin, is native to the mountainous regions of Asia, Europe, and the Arctic, and is most abundant in Siberia. Its species name, rosea, comes from the fact that the cut root of Arctic has a rose-like odor. Arctic Root has been used in traditional medicine to combat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, infections, and many other ailments.

In Central Asia, Arctic Root was prescribed for tuberculosis, cancer, and influenza. In Siberia, Arctic Root was given to married couples to increase fertility and provide healthy children. The Vikings used Arctic Root to improve endurance and enhance physical strength. In Germany, Arctic Root has been used for pain, headache, hemorrhoids, and as an anti-inflammatory.

In recent times, Arctic Root has been the subject of numerous studies in Scandinavia and the former Soviet Union, where it has been favorably compared to Siberian Ginseng. Those studies show that Arctic Root is effective in improving cognitive function, improving the immune system, enhancing athletic performance, promoting weight loss, and relieving stress.

Arctic Root has also been shown to have aphrodisiac properties, and has been used to treat premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Arctic Root is an adaptogen, similar in effect to Cordyceps, and boosts energy levels without the adverse effects of other stimulants. Arctic Root is now being studied for its positive attributes in fighting depression, Parkinson’s, ADD, and Fibromyalgia.

Arrowroot was used by the Arawaks to withdraw the toxins from poison arrow wounds. Today, this New World plant is used as a natural source of calcium and in the treatment of indigestion, diarrhea, and urinary infections.

Official Latin Name: Maranta arundinacea

Arrowroot is a white powder extracted from the root of a West Indian plant, Marantha arundinacea. Arrowroot is also known as Obedience Plant, Bamban, Bermuda, Bermuda Arrowroot, and Maranta. Arrowroot was first discovered and identified on the island of Dominica in the West Indies.

Arrowroot is indigenous to the West Indies, where native people, the Arawaks, used the powder. The Arawaks used the substance to draw out toxins from people wounded by poison arrows. It is believed that the name Arrowroot is derived from this practice. Native Americans in both North and South America apply Arrowroot as a poultice for snakebites, insect bites, and sores. The common name Arrowroot includes the species Maranta nobilis and Maranta allouya, which are used interchangeably with Maranta arundinacea. It looks and feels like cornstarch.

Arrowroot is most commonly grown in Brazil and Thailand. The Arrowroot plant is an herbaceous perennial, with a creeping rhizome with upward-curving, fleshy, cylindrical tubers covered with large, thin scales. The flowering stem reaches a height of 6 feet, and bears flowers at the ends of the branches that terminate the long peduncles. They grow in pairs. The numerous, ovate, leaves are up to 10 inches in length, with long sheaths often enveloping the stem. The starch is extracted from rhizomes less than a year old. They are washed, pulped in wooded mortars, stirred in clean water, the fibers wrung out by hand, and the milky liquor sieved, allowed to settle, and then drained. Clean water is again added, mixed, and drained, after which the starch is dried.

Arrowroot is an excellent source of carbohydrates and digestible calcium. It is a mild laxative but also helps relieve diarrhea caused by stress. Arrowroot also soothes irritated mucus membranes and is used in the treatment of colic, indigestion, and urinary infections.

Artemisia is perhaps best known because of the use of its oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages. Artemisia was used by traditional herbalists as a bitter to improve digestion, fight worm infestations, and stimulate menstruation. It was also regarded as a useful remedy for liver & gallbladder problems.

Official Latin Name:Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia is also known by the names Green Ginger, Southernwood, Old Woman, Absinthe, and Absinthium. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, this herb is now cultivated in the United States and elsewhere. The plant grows from 2-4 feet in height. The part of this plant used medicinally is the above ground portion. An Egyptian papyrus dated 1,600 years before Christ describes this bitter herb in detail.

Legend has it that this plant first sprang up on the impressions that marked the serpent's tail as he slithered his way out of the Garden of Eden. Its alternate name Absinthium is Latin for "without sweetness". It got its generic name Artemisia from Artemis, the Greek name for Diana, because she discovered the plant's virtues and gave them to mankind. Another story has it that it is named for Artemisia, Queen of Caria, who gave her name to the plant after she had benefited from its treatments. Wherever its name came from, it is one of the bitterest herbs known, even today. It was used in granaries to drive away weevils & insects, and was used as a strewing herb to drive away fleas. In traditional folk medicine, Artemisia preparations were used internally for gastric insufficiency, intestinal atonia, gastritis, stomach ache, liver disorders, bloating, anemia, irregular menstruation, intermittent fever, loss of appetite, and worm infestations. The primary chemical constituents of Artemisia include essential oil (absinthol, azulenes, camphene, cineol, isovaleric acid, pinene, thujone, sesquiterpene lactones, absinthin), bitters (absinthium), flavonoids (quercetin), and polyacetylenes.

Absinthin is a narcotic analgesic that affects the medullary portion of the brain concerned with pain & anxiety, inducing a dreamy creative state. It gives people a different view of reality. When used in small amounts, the constituent thujone works as a brain stimulant. Artemisia is primarily used as a bitter; it has the effect of stimulating and invigorating the whole of the digestive process. It is used for indigestion, especially when due to a deficient quantity or quality of gastric juice. It is also a powerful remedy in the treatment of worm infestations, especially roundworm and pin worm.

Artemesia may also be used to help the body deal with fever & infections. Artemesia helps increase secretions of the liver and gall bladder. Topical uses of this herb include its use as a liniment or compress for bruises, sore muscles, bites and pain. It is often used as an insect repellent, and made into a spray to deter pests in organic gardening. A sachet of Artemesia can be used to keep moths away from clothes. The common name Artemesia includes the species Artemisia frigida and Artemisia tilesii, which are used interchangeably with Artemisia absinthium.

The flower head of the Globe Artichoke is used as a common food. The Artichoke head root, and leaves contain several active components recognized as important for digestion and for proper liver, kidney, and gall bladder function. The phytochemicals in Artichoke have been well documented and the leaves, rather than the flower, have been found to be higher in medicinal value.

Official Latin Name:Cynara scolymus

Artichoke has been used medicinally since the beginning of the 20th century to improve digestion. Historically, used as a tea, Artichoke is now preferred in the form of standardized extracts for consistent, more predictable results. Traditional uses have included support for sluggish liver, poor digestion and atherosclerosis.

Research on standardized Artichoke extract has focused on the constituent, caffeoylquinic acid, and its ability to increase bile production in the liver. An increase in bile production assists the body in blood fat metabolism, which assists the digestion process. Artichokes also contain cynarin which has been reported to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Artichokes are popular in all sorts of food dishes, where the heart of the plant is the part used. The other parts of this herb, such as the head, roots, and leaves, each have known nutritional benefits. Due to its diuretic activities, Artichoke works well in the treatment of kidney diseases.

Ashwaghanda is an Ayurvedic herb similar to Indian ginseng that has been traditionally used for libido, fatigue, mental problems, concentration, memory, general debility, nervous and sexual debility, headaches, drug burnout, rejuvenation and recovery from prolonged illness.

Official Latin Name:Withania somnifera

Ashwaghanda is also known by the names Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, and Withania. Ashwaghanda, which belongs to the pepper family, is found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Africa. The medicinal part of this herb is the root. The shoots and seeds are also used as food, and to thicken milk. Ashwaghanda is an important herb used in Ayurveda.

The name comes from the peculiar odor of this herb, a smell similar to that of a sweaty horse. Ashwaghanda in India is similar to Ginseng in other parts of the Orient. Both herbs are touted for their longevity enhancing and sexually stimulating properties, however Ashwaghanda is considered to be milder and less stimulating than Ginseng. Ashwaghanda has been used for 4000 years in traditional Indian medicine - it was used for tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases. Traditional uses of Ashwaghanda among tribal peoples in Africa included fevers and inflammatory conditions. Modern herbalists classify Ashwaghanda as an adaptogen, a substance said to increase the body's ability to withstand stress of all types.

Like other adaptogens, Ashwaghanda is supposed to improve physical energy, exercise capacity, and overall health. It also strengthens immunity (against colds, flu, and other infections), increases sexual capacity, improves fertility, and normalizes cholesterol levels. As its name "somnifera" suggests, it is also sometimes said to produce mild sedation (an effect potentially useful for those troubled by insomnia or anxiety). However, as yet the evidence for these and other potential benefits is limited to highly preliminary studies at best. The primary chemical constituents of this herb include alkaloids, steroidal lactones, and iron. Studies with rats and human volunteers have shown that Ashwaghanda is helpful in putting cancer tumors into regression (used as an alcoholic root extract) and in reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. The plant's high steroid content was found to be more potent than hydrocortisone in animal and human arthritis. Compounds known as withanolides are believed to account for the multiple medicinal applications of this herb. Ashwaghanda has also been shown to relieve pain by lowering serotonin levels, which contribute to the sensitivity of pain receptors in the body. It is considered a good tonic for the mind and useful for those who have overindulged in work, drugs, or alcohol.

Asparagus Root is a highly regarded herb worldwide. Asparagus is used by homeopaths in the treatment of rheumatism and edema due to heart failure. This herb is considered a diuretic, and will clear sediment from the bladder. It also has laxative properties. Asparagus is also high in folic acid, which is essential for production of new red blood cells.

Official Latin Name:Asparagus officinalis

Asparagus Root is also known by the names Sparrowgrass, Tien Men Tong, and Shatavari. Asparagus is a perennial plant with short, horizontal rootstock having long, thick roots and sending up the young shoots that we eat as vegetables. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the root, shoots, and seeds.

The word Asparagus is from the Persian "asparag", referring to tender shoots that can be consumed. Due to its phallic shape, it has long been regarded as an aphrodisiac. The Ayurvedic name, Shatavari, means "she who has one hundred husbands". Asparagus Root has been used to help one develop peace of mind, a loving nature, a good memory, and a calm spirit. Asparagus is a highly regarded herb worldwide. Chinese pharmacists save the best roots of this plant for their families and friends in the belief that it will increase feelings of compassion and love.

In India, Asparagus is used to promote fertility, reduce menstrual cramping, and increase milk production in nursing mothers. In the Western world, it has been touted as an aphrodisiac. These customs and beliefs are not mere superstition - the root contains compounds called steroidal glycosides (asparagoside) that directly affect hormone production and may very well influence emotions.

Asparagus is also high in folic acid, which is essential for production of new red blood cells. Other primary chemical constituents of Asparagus include essential oil, asparagine, arginine, tyrosine, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercitin, and rutin), resin, and tannin.

Asparagus acts to increase cellular activity in the kidneys and thus increases the rate of urine production. This herb also encourages evacuation of the bowels by increasing fecal bulk with undigested fiber. The roots considered diuretic, laxative, induce sweating, and are recommended for gout, dropsy, and rheumatism.

Chinese studies report that the roots can also lower blood pressure. The powdered seeds have antibiotic properties and help to relieve nausea while calming the stomach. Japanese studies report that green Asparagus aids protein conversion into amino acids. Because Asparagus helps to dissolve uric and oxalic acid, it benefits arthritic conditions and kidney stones. It is also a nourishing, blood-building tonic that enhances the health of both male and female reproductive organs.

In India, the racemosa species is used to increase sperm count and nourish the ovum. Known topical applications have included use as a poultice and compress for muscle spasms and stiff joints. This herb also has culinary applications - the young shoots are eaten raw or cooked in salads and omelets; the root & shoots are added to soups; the seeds can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. The common name Asparagus also includes the species Asparagus racemosus and Asparagus cochinchinensis, which are often used interchangeably with Asparagus officinalis.

Astragalus Root is an herb that has been used for centuries as a natural way to support the body's immunity (defense) system. Known since ancient times as the "superior tonic," Astragalus Root is also used as a natural aid for healthy digestion and metabolism. Many people also believe it helps boost their energy levels and overall stamina.

Official Latin Name: Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus is also known by the names Milk Vetch, Locoweed, Yellow Vetch, Poison Vetch, and Chinese Astragalus. The common name "Astragalus" also includes the species Astragalus mongolicus, Astragalus chinensis, and Astragalus complanatus, which are used interchangeably with Astragalus membranaceus.

The Chinese have used Astragalus for many thousands of years as a superior tonic that is often combined with ginseng for replenishing a persons vital energy. The root of this plant is said to strengthen the body's surface resistance and is supposed to invigorate and promote tissue regeneration. It's also been seen as an immune system stimulant as well as a protector of adrenal cortical function. Some say that Astragalus shows promise to support cancer patients undergoing radiation and chemotherapy therapies, and may also help fight against environmental allergies, but more scientific evidence is needed to affirm these considerations.

Astragalus contains numerous constituents, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, amino acids, and trace minerals. Astragalus Root is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions.

In folk medicine, Avena Sativa was used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and “weakness of the nerves.” A tea made from it was thought to be useful in rheumatic conditions and to treat water retention. A tincture of the green tops of Avena Sativa was also used to help with withdrawal from tobacco addiction. Additionally, Oats were often used in baths to treat insomnia and anxiety, as well as a variety of skin conditions, including burns and eczema.

Official Latin Name: Avena sativa

Oats have been eaten since prehistoric times. The genus name, Avena, is derived from Latin and means "nourishing". Sativa means "cultivated". Avena Sativa is often planted to prevent soil erosion, and is widely distributed as a cereal crop. The fruit and straw are gathered at harvest time, typically in August. The stalks are cut and bound together, and then left upright to dry. The straw is just the crushed dry stalks. In the past, this plant was used in India to help opium, morphine and cigarette addicts kick their habits. 

Highly nutritive and supportive of the nervous system, Avena Sativa helps build healthy bones, skin, hair and nails. Avena Sativa is not a bona fide aphrodisiac, but it does nourish the nerves, making tactile sensations more pleasurable. Avena Sativa is one of the best remedies for "feeding" the central nervous system, especially when under stress. It is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility & exhaustion, especially when associated with depression. Avena Sativa may be used with most of the other herbal nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid in the straw explain its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially for external applications.

Avena Sativa is often used as a bath herb to soften skin and help with eczema and neuralgia. The husks have been used historically to stuff pillows and bedding, which is said to have a sedative effect and help for those with rheumatism. Oats has also been used extensively for culinary purposes. The Oat grain from the ripened seed is high in protein and helps to increase stamina. Oat bran (fiber) has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

The primary chemical constituents of Avena Sativa includes saponins, flavonoids, starch, alkaloids (trigonelline, avenine), steroids, calcium, iron, B vitamins, lysine, and methionine. The fruits (seeds) contain alkaloids, such as gramine, as well as saponins, such as avenacosides A and B. The seeds are also rich in iron, manganese, and zinc. The straw is high in silica. Oat alkaloids are believed to account for oats’ relaxing action. The common name "Oat" also includes the species Avena fatua, which is used interchangeably with Avena sativa.

Avocado is a great natural source of potassium, vitamin E, lutein, and other essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Avocado also contains compounds that have the ability to lower cholesterol, improve eyesight, and help prevent many types of cancer.

Official Latin Name: Persea Americana

Avocado has been part of the New World diet for about 2,500 years. The Avocado is believed to have originated in southern Mexico, and was cultivated there by 500 B. C. The Aztecs considered the Avocado, which they called Ahuacatl, to be an aphrodisiac. The Spanish conquerors of the Aztecs called the fruit ‘Aguacate’, which the English later interpreted as Avocado. In Florida, the Avocado was sometimes called ‘Alligator Pear’ due to its shape and its deep-green, textured skin.

Avocados are now grown across the globe, but the main producer by far is California. Avocado is a very healthful fruit, containing numerous vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Avocado contains even more potassium than Banana, which is essential for balancing electrolytes and preventing cramps. Avocado, like Spinach, is also a great source of lutein, which is good for the eyes and helps ward off prostate cancer.

Another cancer fighting agent in Avocado is Vitamin E. Avocado also contains monounsaturated fats, which help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol. It also contains folic acid, magnesium, and fiber. Avocado also contains the cholesterol reducing phytochemical betasitosterol.

Bacopa monnieri has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for everything from snakebite to headache. It is now used most often as a brain tonic and a memory enhancer.

Official Latin Name: Bacopa monniera

Bacopa monnieri is also known by the common names Brahmi, Pennell, Herb-of-Grace, and Water Hyssop. Bacopa is a small, creeping plant found in wetlands across India. Bacopa has been frequently mistaken for Gotu Kola. Traditional uses of Bacopa include cardiac and nerve tonic, insanity, headaches, scorpion stings, snakebites, anemia, leprosy, liver ailments, skin conditions, and memory lapses.

In use for several thousand years in the Ayurvedic tradition as a brain nerve tonic, Bacopa monnieri is now being recognized for its memory enhancing and revitalizing effects. It also assists in heightening mental acuity and supports the physiological processes involved in relaxation. Bacopa is the source of an extract used in India for centuries. It has specific benefits for the brain, and specialists in Ayurvedic medicine commonly use it to treat mental illness and epilepsy. Bacopa appears to strengthen memory and improve concentration by enhancing the conductivity of nerve tissue. It also has mild sedative and anti-anxiety properties. Bacopa is often found in commercial formulas used for memory symptoms.

Balsam Pear grows in tropical areas, including parts of East Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used as a food as well as a medicine. The leaves and fruit have both been used to make teas and beer, or to season soups in the Western world. Balsam Pear is being studied in the support treatment of diabetes and psoriasis.

Official Latin Name:Momordica charantia

Balsam Pear is also known by the names Karela and Bitter Melon. Balsam Pear grows in tropical areas, including parts of East Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used as a food as well as a medicine. It is a green cucumber shaped fruit with gourd-like bumps all over it. It looks like an ugly, light green cucumber. The fruit should be firm, like a cucumber. And it tastes very bitter. Although the seeds, leaves, and vines of Balsam Pear have all been used, the fruit is the safest and most prevalent part of the plant used medicinally. The leaves and fruit have both been used occasionally to make teas and beer, or to season soups in the Western world. Balsam Pear was traditionally used for a dazzling array of conditions by people in tropical regions.

Numerous infections, cancer, leukemia, and diabetes are among the most common conditions it was believed to improve. Balsam Pear is reported to help in the treatment of diabetes and psoriasis. It has also been thought that Balsam Pear may help in the treatment of HIV, but the evidence thus far is too weak to even consider. The ripe fruit of Balsam Pear has been suggested to exhibit some remarkable anti-cancer effects, but there is absolutely no evidence that it can treat cancer. However, preliminary studies do appear to confirm that Balsam Pear may improve blood sugar control in people with adult-onset (type 2) diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, you might consider adding Balsam Pear to your diet, but only under a doctor's supervision.

The blood lowering action of the fresh juice of the unripe Balsam Pear has been confirmed in scientific studies in animals and humans. At least three different groups of constituents in Balsam Pear have been reported to have hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit in diabetes mellitus. These include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. It is still unclear which of these is most effective or if all three work together. Nonetheless, Balsam Pear preparations have been shown to significantly improve glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels, and to improve fasting blood glucose levels. Blood and urine sugar levels and post-prandial (after eating) blood glucose levels also fell. An as yet unidentified constituent in Balsam Pear also seems to inhibit the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which may benefit people with psoriasis.

Bananas don't grow on trees; they grow on the world's largest herb. Banana is the perfect herbal supplement for active people, as it replaces the vitamins and nutrients most commonly lost due to strenuous activity, such as potassium, Vitamin B-6, and Vitamin C.

Official Latin Name: Musa paradisiaca

The Banana is a large plant that grows in the tropical parts of Central America, South America, Asia, and Africa, where the climate is warm and damps the year round. It grows 10 to 40 feet high and has enormous, broad green leaves that are sometimes 10 feet long.

The Banana plant has a hollow stem that is 8 to 15 inches thick. Another stem, which grows through the hollow stem, bears the flowers and the fruit. The flower bud is very large and shaped like a heart.

As it grows it slowly unfolds and shows about 100 small blossoms, which are long and narrow and grow together in clusters or groups. Some of these clusters grow into great bunches of fruit.

Each bunch is called a ‘hand’ because it looks almost like a hand with the separate Bananas like fingers. The fruit is cut off the plant while it is still green and unripe.

When the fruit is ripe its soft skin is yellow and resembles a small Plantain. The flesh of the fruit is soft, sweet, and a very pale cream color.

Banana plants are cut down after the fruit has been removed, because they bear fruit only once. A piece of the root is planted again and in a few months the young plant grows several feet height. It takes two years before the plant begins to flower and bear fruit. Bananas are an excellent provider of energy and a healthy addition to anyone’s diet. Banana is the perfect supplement for active people.

It provides large amounts of Vitamin B-6 and Vitamin C, which are two of the vitamins most commonly lost during strenuous exercise. Banana is most well known as a supplier of potassium. Potassium is very important to muscle function and is the nutrient most often associated with relieving muscle cramps. The potassium in Banana may also help reduce the likelihood of hypertension and stroke. Banana is also high in dietary fiber, and thus may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, especially colon cancer. Banana is also packed with natural energy and phytonutrients.

Barberry Root is an excellent herb for correcting liver function and promoting bile flow. It is used in debilitating conditions marked by poor digestive function and a history of dietary or alcohol abuse, or excessive exposure to drugs, chemicals or industrial pollutants. 

Official Latin Name: Berberis vulgaris

Barberry Root is also known by the names Oregon Grape Root, Rocky Mountain Grape, Mahonia, Pepperidge, Pepperidge Bush, Holy Thorn, Sowberry, Oregon Grape, Berberry, Jaundice Berry, and Daruharidra. The Mahonia and Berberis species (Oregon Grape and Barberry, respectively) are very closely related, and herbalists often treat them as one herb. The genus name Berberis is thought to be derived from a Phoenician word "barbar", meaning "glossy" in reference to the glossy leaves.

Barberry is a densely branched, deciduous shrub 3-8 feet tall. Berberis is a deciduous shrub that has smooth leaves and thorny stems. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the root, root bark, bark of stem, and rhizome berries (some herbalists also use the leaves). Many species of Barberry are found all over the world. They are all used for similar medicinal purposes by the different traditions. The Italians call this herb Holy Thorn, because it is thought to have formed part of the Crown of Thorns. Berberis is the Arabic name for the fruit. The berries were pickled in the past and had various culinary uses.

In the Far East, berberine-containing plants were specifically used for bacillary dysentery and diarrhea. Barberry became unpopular with farmers when it was discovered to be a host plant for the wheat rust fungus that decimated crops in the 19th century. The yellow root was an important dye for baskets, buckskins, and fabric among Native Americans.

The early Spanish-Americans used the yellow root to make neck-crosses (crucifixes). The ripe berries were taken for fever or diarrhea, dysentery, and typhus fever. The fresh juice was used for mouthwash to strengthen gums or gargle. The primary chemical constituents of Barberry include alkaloids (berberine, berbamine, and oxyacanthine), chelidonic acid, resin, tannins. The berries are rich in vitamin C. The root-bark contains berberine, a bitter alkaloid, that aids in the secretion of bile and is good for liver problems, acts as a mild purgative, and helps regulate the digestive processes.

The antibacterial properties of the alkaloid berbamine have shown activity against Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Salmonella, Shigella and Eschorichia Coli. It has anti-microbial properties that are especially beneficial for the skin and intestinal tract. Barberry has a beneficial effect on the blood pressure by causing a dilatation of the blood vessels.

This herb is also good for hepatitis, colic, jaundice, diabetes, consumption. Historically, Barberry was used as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion, and in the treatment of inflammatory arthritic, sciatica, and rheumatic complaints. Use of this botanical decreases heart rate, depresses the breathing, stimulates intestinal movement, reduces bronchial constriction, and kills bacteria on the skin. External applications have included use for sores, burns, ulcers, acne, itch, tetters, ringworm, cuts, and bruises. It is indicated in congestive jaundice, and inflammation of the gall bladder & gallstones.

As a bitter tonic with mild laxative effects, Barberry is used by weak or debilitated people to strengthen & cleanse the system. It also appears to be able to reduce an enlarged spleen. It acts against malaria and is effective in the treatment of protozoan infections. Berberine is highly bactericidal, amoeboidal and trypanocidal. It is active in vitro and in animals against cholera. It makes a useful compress for inflammatory eye conditions such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis. The common name Barberry includes Berberis repens, Berberis aqilfolia, Berberis nervosa, Berberis pinnata, and other Berberis species, which are used interchangeably with Berberis vulgaris.

Barley Grass has been a food source of the majority of the world for thousands of years. It is medicinally used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and cancer preventative. Barley Grass is an amazing source of vitamins and nutrients. If you are on a low-carb regimen, supplement your diet with Barley Grass.

Official Latin Name: Hordeum vulgare

Barley is one of the most important plants in human history. Barley Grass is one of the green grasses, which is the only vegetation on earth that can be the sole source of nutritional support for a person’s entire lifespan. Barley has served as a food staple in most cultures.

The use of barley for food and medicinal purposes predates civilization. Archaeologists have determined that Barley has been cultivated for at least 9,000 years. Barley Grass contains all of the eight essential amino acids, which our body cannot produce on its own. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are needed for cell building, cell regeneration, and energy production. A large amount of vitamins and minerals are found in green Barley leaves. These are easily absorbed through the digestive tract, giving our bodies’ instant access to vital nutrients including beta-carotene, calcium, copper, folic acid, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and Vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C. In addition to being a great nutritional supplement, Barley Grass has been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Barley Grass has also been used to treat diarrhea, bronchitis, stomach problems, and throat ailments. It is an anti-oxidant and detoxifier. Barley Grass is also believed to increase sexual stamina. The ability of Barley Grass to aid in cellular rebuilding has led to its use for everything from dermatitis to an anti-aging supplement.

Mustard Seed is also known by the names Black Mustard, White Mustard, Brown Mustard, Garlic Mustard, Pepper Grass, White Top Mustard, Tansy Mustard, and Hedge Mustard. Mustard is a widely cultivated annual found wild in many parts of the world.

The part of this plant used medicinally is the seed, which is collected when ripe in late summer. The word Mustard is from the Latin "mustum ardens", meaning "burning must" because the ground seeds have been mixed with grape must (an unfermented grape juice) to make the condiment Mustard. In Medieval Europe, Mustard was one of the most common spices used to flavor the bland diet of the time. By the Fourteenth century, Dijon, France had been established as a Mustard center, supported by the Dukes of Burgundy. Today, Düsseldorf is one of the main mustard regions of Germany.

At one time, surgeons disinfected their hands with a paste of mustard. The primary chemical constituents of Mustard Seed include glucosinolates (sinigrin), sinapine, enzyme (myrosin), mucilage, protein, and sulphur. When taken internally, the seeds are laxative, mainly because of the mucilage they produce, but only small doses are advised as they may inflame the stomach. The stimulating, diaphoretic action can also be utilized for fevers, colds, and influenza. But this well known herb has its primary medicinal use as a stimulating external application.

The rubefacient action causes a mild irritation to the skin, s