BESTSELLING HERBAL PRODUCTS IN THE U.S. 2011

BESTSELLING HERBAL PRODUCTS IN THE U.S. 2011
herbalist , healthy , environment

Best-Selling Herbal Dietary Supplements in the Food, Drug, and Mass Market Retail Channels.* Courtesy of Information Resources, Inc., Chicago, IL. All data based on sales for a one year period. Excludes Wal-Mart stores, or sales from other market channels: health and natural food stores, mail order, MLM companies, health professionals, warehouse buying clubs, and convenience stores.

The biggest growth based on these figures is in combination herb products for which the 29.1% increase resulted in over $52 Billion in annual sales.

Herb/Rank

1. Garlic

2. Echinacea

3. Saw Palmetto

4. Ginkgo

5. Soy

6. Cranberry

7. Ginseng†

8. Black Cohosh

9. St. John's wort

10. Milk thistle

11. Evening primrose

12. Valerian

13. Green tea

14. Bilberry

15. Grape seed

16. Horny goat weed

17. Yohimbe

18. Horse Chestnut

19. Eleuthero

20. Ginger

Multi-Herbs ‡

All other herbs

Total Herb Supplements Amount of Sales

$27,013,420

$23,782,640

$20,334,030

$19,334,010

$17,419,530

$13,445,670

$12,165,220

$11,984,960

$9,087,829 $7,775,529 $6,088,103

$3,449,297 $2,794,783

$2,341,301

$2,330,281

$2,203,555

$1,835,313

$1,564,550

$992,286

$814,789

$52,049,290 $11,841,120

$257,514,900 % Change

-11.2

-14.9

-10.5

-12.9

-26.6

6.8

-10.2

-22.3

-12.5

0.8

-3.6

-9.2

22.1

-17.6

-11.9

-12.2

-21.9

-35.8

-64.4

-13.8

29.1

-7.5

-7.4

† May include Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (P. quinquefolius)

‡ Multi-herbs refers to combination formulations containing more than one herb.

Compare with earlier period reports:

According to Karch, the following were the 30 top selling medicinal plant species in the United States, in order of importance related to annual sales:

Echinacea

St. John’s Wort

Ginkgo biloba

Garlic

Saw Palmetto

Ginseng (Korean)

Goldenseal

Aloe

Eleuthero (“Siberian Ginseng”)

Valerian

Cranberry

Milk Thistle

Cat’s Claw (Uña de Gato, Uncaria tomentosa )

Grape seed extract

Bilberry

Cascara Sagrada

Cayenne pepper (Chile)

Dong Quai (“Chinese Angelica”)

Psyllium seed

Ma Huang (Chinese Ephedra)

Feverfew

Kava kava

Green tea

Ginger Pine bark extract (pycnogenol)

Atragalus (“Chinese Tragacanth”)

Primrose

Yohimbine

Chamomile (“Roman” and “German”)

Pau D’ Arco

Read More

Benefits of Bergamot Oil

Benefits of Bergamot Oil
herbalist , healthy , environment

Bergamot or citrus bergamia has a light aroma and is subtle and refreshing. If you want to know the beneficial powers of bergamot herb and its healing properties, then keep on reading some interesting information here. Bergamot oil is a natural analgesic, an antiseptic, an antidepressant, a digestive, an antispasmodic, a deodorant, an expectorant, an antipyretic, a sedative, and a vermifuge.

Bergamot oil is scientifically known as cytrus bergamia and is one of the most enjoyable and energizing oils used in aromatherapy. Bergamot oil can be used on a daily basis on your hairs to start the day because of its antidepressant qualities. Bergamot tree belongs to the Rutaceae family of trees and is about 5 meters in height with long green leaves and white flowers. The fruit looks like an orange but when looking closely resembles to the shape of a pear. The aroma of bergamot fruit is floral and fruity with a spicy note.

History and Symbolism of Bergamot Oil

This precious essential oil used in aromatherapy is not a new discovery but it has taken its name from the famous city Bergamo in Italy, where this oil was sold initially. But the legends say that Columbus found bergamot in Canary Islands and introduced it in Italy and Spain. Bergamot has proven its use since 1725 in Florence where it was appreciated as an important medicine. Bergamot oil is also used widely in perfume industry. Bergamot is one of the main ingredients in classic cologne. Bergamot oil is also used to flavor Earl Grey tea.

Origin and Distribution of Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil is native of southern Italy. This oil usually comes from Morocco and Italy. The bergamot is the most sensitive tree of all citrus trees and requires a special climate and terrain to grow.

Extraction of Bergamot Oil

Bergamot essential oil is extracted from the skin or peel of bergamot fruit and it is interesting to note that it takes 1000 bergamot peels to extract only 1 litre of essential bergamot oil.

Benefits of Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil produces a refreshing environment and astringent atmosphere which reduces depression and anxiety. It’s refreshing and uplifting qualities balance emotions. In aromatherapy, bergamot oil is also used in states of convalescence and to help regulate eating disorders like anorexia. Bergamot oil combined with lavender oil helps in fighting insomnia. Bergamot essential oil strengthens the immune system. It’s strong antiviral agent is very effective against herpes simplex. Bergamot oil is helpful in reducing fever and also it fights bad breath. Bergamot oil is very effective in treatment of respiratory infections such as bronchitis, tonsillitis, and tuberculosis or TB.

It is a very useful antiseptic for the urinary tract. Only a few drops of bergamot essential oil added in bath tub or seat is beneficial to treat urinary problems such as cystitis or inflammation of urinary bladder. Bergamot oil also works wonders on the digestive tract and relieves nausea, indigestion, dyspepsia, cramps, and flatulence. Bergamot oil is also a powerful insect repellent.

Bergamot Oil for Skin Care

Bergamot oil is a powerful antiseptic for the skin. It stimulates, regenerates, and heals the skin. Essential oil of bergamot is used to treat psoriasis, acnes, ulcers, lacerations, and wounds. This oil is also recommended in cases of skin or scalp fat, provided it is used in a well-diluted mixture of 1% or less in creams or shampoos on a daily basis.

Essential Oil Blends With Bergamot Oil

Bergamot oil mixes well with essential flower oils such lavender oil, jasmine oil, and geranium oil. Also it is interesting to note that a blend of bergamot, geranium, and lavender is excellent for toning the skin and also to be used as a perfume. Bergamot oil when mixed with mint favors produces an aromatic effect....READ MORE

Read More

Top 10 Fruits for Better Health Benefits

Top 10  Fruits for Better Health Benefits
herbalist , healthy , environment

Growing up in the worlds really was an awesome experience looking back as an adult. Through local fare we experienced the best that the world has to offer in exotic fruits although it was not exotic to the child that could feast on it every season. I must admit that i always enjoyed our fruits.

As a child we could pick them off the trees, enjoying sharp fragrant tastes on a daily basis at no cost. What i didn't realize is how much they contribute to a healthy lifestyle, with all the benefits that aid in digestion, overall health and wellbeing.

1. Coconut - a nutritious food source, is one of the most common and prolifically grown fruit nationally and internationally. The bark, the shell, the three eyes, the fibers, the water, white meat - jelly or hard makes it a super food. Opening a coconut can be a challenge but well worth it for the water and the meat, it is called barking.

Barking is when the whole coconut with its tough husk attached must be pounded so that it splits the outer lime green shell. Once it splits you strip the husk to the hard wood like inner shell which holds the coconut water and meat. The water is good for drinking and the meat in the jelly - young stage, is soft and thin and delicious. The more mature the coconut the harder or more dense or firmer is the meat, a little drier and great for desserts, pastries and cooking.

Coconut's hard meat is grated and cooked with sugar to make candy and tarts.

Coconut - coco: the monkey face, came to the Bahamas by Spanish explorers, originally from India. Every part of this palm can and is used for different reasons. Coconut palms can be found virtually all over the planet, having adapted to many regions of the earth they thrive on land and in water, mangroves and near beaches.

The fruit - the seed is not really a nut. But coconut oil is highly valued for it health benefits, this is produced from the milk, by grating the mature coconut meat. The liquid when refridgerated separates from the coconut cream and is then heated.

Its leaves as used to make brooms, baskets, floor mats and roofing thatch.

The trunk is used by Hawaiians to make canoes, containers and drums,

Coconut's health benefits are various, it provides fiber, are relatively high in minerals such as iron, phosphorus and zinc, as well as proteins, antioxidants and vitamins.

2. Genip / Spanish lime - this is a fruit grown in clumps like grapes but they have a greenish 'thin plastic like,' shell that needs to be bitten into, so that you can get to the sweet hairy pulp and large seed. Known as a Genip in the Caribbean to the rest of the world this luscious fruit is known as a Spanish lime.

This tree was introduced to the islands by European settlers.

The plant grows large with male, female and bisexual flowering properties whose ovoid fruit is nutritious with seeds that can be roasted and eaten.

Health benefits of the Genips are a good source of minerals like iron, phosphorus, and niacin. As well as fiber, calcium and vitamin A.

Caution when eating this fruit - it stains, leaving a dry brown spot wherever it lands, Arawak Indians, used it to dye cloth.

3. Guava - a round green fruit when bitten into is pink, sweet and juicy. Used in a well known Bahamian dessert called Guava Duff. This confection is so good when done well and served with its sauce makes the mouth water. Oh how good it is!

You can also make a cake with guavas and it sauce but i prefer the duff.

Guava Duff is a little time consuming but it is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, it is always worth the wait and the effort. The recipe is simple but takes work because the guava seeds and flesh need to be washed, peeled and strained through a fine sieve, to make a thick paste. The skin is finely diced or minced.

The dough is fairly simple you'll need 4 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1tsp salt, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and 2 cups finely sliced guava

Combine all the dry ingredients then mix.

Add oil. Knead approximately 10 minutes until smooth and pliable. Place on a flat surface and roll out to 1/4 inch thick. Spread sliced guava over the dough. Roll like a jelly roll loaf. Wrap in foil and cook in a double boiler for 1 hour.

Sauce ingredients are 1 lb of butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 8 oz cans of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of finely sliced guava or nectar, 1/4 cup of brandy or vanilla extract

Blend butter and sugar about 15 mins, add condensed milk, guava, blend 2 mins. Add brandy / vanilla blend 1 minute.

Cut into 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices and serve with sauce.

It is also used to make jams, jellies, juice / pulp and paste.

Guavas were introduced into the islands by Spanish explorers or other European settlers.

The trees or plants are of the myrtle family, with tough dark green leaves and five petaled white flowers with multiple stamens. The pink flesh with a green skin is totally edible except for the numerous pale beige seeds.

Health benefits, guava is known as a super fruit, providing lots of fiber, vitamin C - 4 times as much as an orange & A, folic acid, and minerals like potassium, manganese and copper. As well as antioxidants.

4. Mangoes - this is probably one of the most well known of all the fruits, i grew up with two versions of this sweet succulent fruit that has a thick skin, a large seed and dense meat. The Bahamian one i grew up with is more of a hairy example. Be careful when eating this because the juice will stain your clothing, a perfect handheld vitamin pack sweet fruit where you can peel the skin with you teeth, sucking and chewing the deep gold orange yellow meat.

Mango trees and seeds were brought to the islands by the English from their colonies in India. They are known to live long and produce most of their mature life, the leaves are evergreen and grow in deep soil with wide spreading roots.

Mangoes are also good for juice and pulp.

Health benefits - these fruit provide prebiotic fiber, vitamins B, C, & K, provitamin A & E and beta carotenoids, B6, minerals that are essential to a healthy natural lifestyle.

5. Papaya / Paw paw - this is shaped almost like an avocado with a skin and black seeds with an pinkish -orange flesh. It can be sweet but i find it a bit subdued.

The tree or plant reminds me of a palm with the fruit growing at the top like coconuts. They need a light rich soil with good drainage. Paw paw can be started from seedlings but it is better to grow them in containers for transporting.

It is a short lived and fast growing tree with a hollow green purplish straight trunk that contains latex - papain used to tenderize proteins such as animal meat. The leaves grow out of the top, spiraling out of the trunks center. The flowers are five petaled, waxy, fleshy and slightly fragrant.

Introduced in the Bahamas by European settlers but known to be native to central America and Mexico.

Used in shakes, fruit salads, but mostly consumed sliced and raw. Green papaya is cooked in foods like curries and stews The seeds are spicy.

Health benefits it's good for the digestion.

Caution; the latex can contribute to allergies but this is normally found in green or slightly green papayas.

6. Sapodilla / dilly - this is a fruit typically the size of a hand ball. It is a round, and earthy brown on the outside with light brown or tannish meat that has large black glossy seeds with hooked ends that can not be eaten and are hazardous if swallowed. The flesh is sweet and grainy but the outer thicker skin is not consumed. It needs to be picked to ripen.

The tree is a long living plant with a sticky milky latex sap, tannins and wind resistant bark. The leaves are ornamental, green and glossy. It's flowers are bell shaped and small bearing its fruit in a six lobed corolla. The have adapted to many different soils.

Originating in central America - Yucatan the dilly is known to have traveled to the Bahama islands along with Arawak or Carib Indians or European settlers.

Health benefits of the dilly it is rich in vitamins like C & A, folate & niacin, minerals like potassium, copper & iron and antioxidants. It replenishes and energizes the body. It is also known to contribute huge amounts of fiber. The tannins make it an excellent anti - inflammatory, anti - bacterial, anti- viral and anti - parasitic fruit.

7. Seagrape - usually it starts out as a green cluster that reminds one of grapes hence the name but they are not ripe until they are purple and succulent, there is a large seed with little flesh but oh so good. To eat you just wash with water and consume, usually by the handful. Maturing in fall or late fall you could literally gather up the fallen fruit or pick them from the branches.

The tree is an evergreen plant, that thrives in the tropics, the leaves are large, stiff, elephant eared and leathery, but when young they are purplish turning green as they age. The flowers are small whitish and fragrant, appearing in spring and early summer. The female tree usually produces but a male tree is always near by, needed for pollination.

The fruit is used to make jellies, jams and wine. This is news to me having enjoyed them straight off the tree as a child.

The seagrape tree is native to the Bahamas and the surrounding regions like southern Florida. Salt tolerant, wind resistant growing near the beach.

Health benefits it helps with digestive troubles.

8. Soursop - usually a large ugly green skinned fruit with white meat which is both sweet and sour with large indigestible black seeds, this is good with condensed milk, cold or made into an awesome ice cream.

The tree is an evergreen white flowering broad leaf native to Mexico, the Caribbean and other tropical regions like sub Saharan African countries. They like warm winters and humid weather.

The fruit is an ugly lime green spiked misshapen round fruit that hides a succulent secret, its white ivory juicy flesh is oh so creamy and soft, melt in the mouth good. When ripe you can enjoy something so exotically different that it tantalizes the taste buds, but if you add condensed milk to the cold flesh of the fruit - Wow, watch out!

You know when they are ripe because the heavy laden fruit pulls its branch low getting ready to drop to the ground, it's firm soft flesh gives slightly when touched or when squeezed but the indentations smooth back out. Like testing a ripe avocado.

These are harvested full but not ripe then 'force' ripened in a dark cool area.

Used to make sorbets, ice cream, smoothies, fresh fruit juices and candy.

Native to the West Indies.

Health benefits high in carbs because of frutose, vitamins B1, B2 and C. Some studies have produced evidence that it can be used to fight cancer.

9. Sugar apple - bumpy greenish round shaped fruit when ripened is a little black, with a thick skin creating individual , squeezable segments that break apart into little cone shaped white soft fleshy pieces that hide a black glossy seed. Each fruit varies in size, with a sweet smelling fragrance.

The tree is a semi - evergreen plant growing in the tropics. The leaves are green and oblong shaped. The cluster of flowers are made up of three large and three small petals. They thrive in sub tropical and tropical regions of the globe.

Used in different parts of the world to make cool drinks.

The Sugar apple is also known as a custard apple. Introduced by the Spaniards to the New World.

Health benefits high in calories and iron.

10. Tamarind - when ripe the flesh is brown with large black seeds, when trying to get to the meat which is brown and tangy, adding a sour or tart edge to teeth when eaten. It can be eaten ripe straight off the tree, dried, as preserves, as a candy and a sauce, which is usually a dark color and thicker than molasses. As well as sorbets, ice creams and flavored drinks. I have tried it green but the taste is distinctively sharp, like sour gummy candy revved because of acidity.

The tree is a native of tropical Africa and the Sudan, it is a slow growing, long lived evergreen with bright green foliage which is dense giving good shade. The young leaflets close during the night. The flowers are five petaled unnoticeable and yellow with orange or red streaks.

The fruit matures in the late spring early summer, turning a velvety brown with large seeds, thin flesh, in pods.

Introduced by settlers from the Americas.

Health benefits of tamarind sources of vitamin B and calcium, also as a natural laxative.

There is so much more information on these fruits and so many more fruits that are in the Bahamas having become native or indigenous to the islands themselves. But they are always intriguing and delicious to try, if only once.

Some are an acquired taste but all are good as a natural alternative to processed sweets and a great way to spruce up your healthy life style.

Many or all of these fruits can be found any where on the island, growing wild, on farms and in people's gardens or in the yard. Cultivated or wild searching for and hunting for any of them is a treat that every adult and every child looked forward to, after school, on the weekends whenever the season made them available.

They all do well in the subtropical weather and thrive in the warmth of the Caribbean sun.

Read More

Benefits of Amla Herb Indian Gooseberry

Benefits of Amla Herb Indian Gooseberry
herbalist , healthy , environment

Amla is commonly known as amalaki, Indian gooseberry and medically known as emblica officinalis. Amla is a natural antioxidant and is a popular home remedy. Amla prevents early aging of human body. Amla is good for hair.

Amla is good for respiratory function. Amla treats and prevents skin disorders. Natural medicine suggests Amla in the treatment of eye disorders. Fruit of Amla is beneficial in treatment of human scurvy. Amla is a pure herb and is called the king of herbs. Amla or Amalaki extract contains a lot of vitamin C and cytokine-like substances called as z-riboside, zeatin, and z-nucleotide.

Amla also has plenty of natural bioflavonoids, which are mandatory for the proper function of vitamin C and help protect and strengthen human cell membranes from oxidative damage. If you agree that gold is the best mineral, then you have to agree Amla is the best herb. Amla or Indian gooseberry is a natural herb, which is frequently and consistently used in natural medicine, especially Ayurvedic medicine. Amla contains up to 720 milligrams of vitamin C/100 gram of fresh amla pulp or 900 milligrams of vitamin C/100 gm of amla juice.

Amla remains stable in heated temperatures, which means this natural wonder herb does not lose its value while or after processing. It is interesting to note that Amla also contains dried form of tannins and that is why it is able to retain most of vitamin C content.

When a person takes one to two capsules of Amla or Indian gooseberry twice daily with meals for three months, it allows several weeks of long-lasting benefits but it is recommended to take Amla capsules on a consistent basis as it is a natural product and treats the disease from its roots and not just the symptoms which is done by allopathic medicine. Also, long-term use of Indian gooseberry capsules has not shown any adverse effects on human body as it is a natural product and is free of any side effects.

Natural Herb Amla or Indian gooseberry fruit

Amla fruit juice contains approximately twenty times as much vitamin C as orange fruit juice contains. Amla fruit tissue has nearly 160 times the concentration of ascorbic acid found in one apple and approximately three times the concentration of protein. Amla fruit also contains a large amount of concentration of most beneficial minerals and amino acids than what is contained in apples.

Fruit ash of Indian Gooseberry (Amla) contains 4 zinc, 3-ppm copper, and 2.5 chromium. Amla is also commonly called an adaptogenic herb by various herbalists throughout the world, as it boosts the immune system and is helpful in prevention of immunocompromised conditions

Benefits of Amla or Indian Gooseberry

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is a strong rejuvenator.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry balances stomach acids.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry enhances food absorption.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is a natural antioxidant, which prevents premature aging of cells.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is popular in prevention and treatment of respiratory tract disorders. Indian Gooseberry or Amla strengthens the lungs.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry improves brain function.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry detoxifies and cleans the body out of millions of toxins.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry juice enhances fertility when the patient regularly consumes it.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry boosts immunity and strengthens the immune system.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry acts as a natural coolant in beneficial in heat rash or heat intolerance.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is beneficial in diarrhea, bleeding, and dysentery.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is rich in vitamin content and is really useful for treatment of scurvy.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry is popular for treatment of skin disorders

Eye troubles are also addressed by Amla

Amla or Indian Gooseberry prevents premature graying of hair and hair loss.

RESOURCES

Read More

India's Ayurvedic Practice

India's Ayurvedic Practice
herbalist , healthy , environment

Turmeric, like other herbs and spices, is a principle herb in Ayurveda -- India's ancient holistic health system. Ayurveda means "knowledge of life" -- with herbs lying at the very heart of Ayurvedic practice.

Turmeric Ayurveda Practice Turmeric has multiple uses within Ayurveda, including blood cleansing and maintaining healthy skin.* In Ayurvedic terminology, turmeric includes the following:

Verdana sthapana -- promotes your healthy nervous system and helps you with occasional discomfort*

Sangrahani -- supports your absorption of vitamins and minerals*

Anulomana -- helps you in purging out wastes and building healthy blood*

Rakta stambhaka -- promotes the wellness of your circulatory system*

And this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Ayurvedic turmeric uses.

What does this mean to you?

Simply, turmeric has been used in Indian culture for thousands of years for a multitude of health-promoting reasons.* An estimated 500 million Indians still use the spice today.

What's Your Best Sources for Turmeric?

So by now, you might be wondering about potential sources of turmeric.

Well, you may already know you can find it in the spice aisle of your local grocery store. But as mentioned earlier, I don't recommend using your local grocery store, due to the quality of their herbs and spices.

Even though there may be some good spices available there, it's very difficult to verify their purity and potency.

Also, the turmeric powder you buy in your store is a spice. It doesn't necessarily come from high-quality organic herbs -- and is not produced using certified organic processes, causing you to risk missing its healthful benefits.

What's more... with store-bought turmeric powder, you'll probably just use it once in awhile to cook with -- not on a daily basis to consistently take advantage of the benefits it offers.

So, what other options do you have?

I recommend searching for a high-quality, 100% organic-based turmeric supplement.

But there are some things you should watch for when choosing a turmeric supplement.

Avoid Unnecessary Fillers, Additives, and Excipients

When I did my own research on available turmeric supplements, I found a surprising array of choices.

Besides, curcumin and curcuminoid ingredients, I found products with questionable ingredients like fillers, additives, and excipients. An excipient is a substance added to the supplement as a processing or stability aid.

One ingredient, magnesium stearate (also know as stearic acid), is a potentially toxic metal additive from pill production.

Another ingredient I found in many turmeric supplements, Dibasic Calcium Phosphate (DCP), may even inhibit the absorption of essential minerals within your system.

There are others you may find as well, but the bottom line is... you don't want or need these ingredients in your turmeric supplement. Some pose potential health risks -- and all are unnecessary.....RESOURCES

Read More

Certified Organic Producer Committed to Quality Processes

Certified Organic Producer Committed to Quality Processes
herbalist , healthy , environment

The key to delivering an organic supplement rests in the manufacturer's commitment to quality and excellence.

In fact, I believe that without these quality processes in place, it really doesn't matter what organic herbs are harvested. You simply won't end up with a top-notch consistent organic formula. In turn, you won't receive the maximum potential value of the herb.

So, it's important to highly scrutinize and research the manufacturer's credentials.

In fact, you may not be able to stop with the manufacturer alone. Keep in mind, the total organic process involves planting, cultivation, selective harvesting, and then producing and packaging the final formula.

Here's the type of certifications I recommend you look for:

Hazards and Critical Control Points (HACCP) -- International food safety certification that World Health Organization (WHO) standards are met  

Safe Quality Food (SQF) -- HACCP-based food safety and risk management system covering the identification of food safety, quality risks, and the validation and monitoring of control measures

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) -- International certification verifies all required practices necessary for an effective food safety program are followed

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2000 -- International standard for quality, safety, ecology, economy, reliability, compatibility, inter-operability, efficiency, and effectiveness

Orthodox Union (OU) Kosher -- Certifies compliance for Kosher observers and followers

International organic certificationssuch as: USDA, EU, and NSOP

Read More

Top 20 Herbs for Health 2011

Top 20 Herbs for Health 2011
herbalist , healthy , environment

20 must-have herbs for your medicine cabinet:

Luckily for us, we live at a time when researchers gather new information about herbs almost daily. And they're confirming that sometimes herbs just work better than prescription and over-the-counter medicines. For example, deglycyrrhizinated licorice heals ulcers without the risk of severe bleeding that accompanies prescription ulcer medicines. And St. John's wort lifts mild and moderate depression without squashing your libido or making you sleepy the way prescription antidepressants do. Here we reveal the 20 herbs that experts say you can count on to safely treat common chronic ailments.

Acid Reflux

The Best Herb: If you suffer from acid reflux, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), or DGL, could make meals more pleasant. DGL coats your esophagus, protecting it from irritating stomach acid, and reduces painful inflammation in your esophagus, says Rob McCaleb, president of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colo. Researchers haven't yet studied DGL's effect on acid reflux, but previous studies have confirmed that the herb eases inflammation, pain, and other disorders of the gastrointestinal system.

The Best Dose: Chew two 250 mg wafers 20 minutes before you eat a large, spicy, or acidic meal, and take up to six wafers a day. DGL must make direct contact with your esophagus to help, so chewable DGL wafers provide the best relief. Do not substitute any form of regular licorice for DGL because regular licorice can increase your blood pressure. And do not use DGL if you are pregnant or nursing.

Anxiety

The Best Herb: Relief can be yours within a few hours when you take kava kava (Piper methysticum), which appears to calm your nervous system by binding to the brain receptors that promote relaxation. This year scientists reviewed n well-designed human studies on the herb and concluded that kava kava effectively and safely quelled anxiety. You may have seen news stories warning against kava kava because it may cause liver damage, but McCaleb says these findings have not been substantiated in adults with healthy livers. "The major anti-anxiety herb is still kava," he says.

The Best Dose: There are two ways to take kava kava. Take 400 to 500 mg of powdered kava kava capsules up to six times a day until your anxiety subsides. Or stir 1 teaspoon of powdered kava kava (sold in some natural food stores) into 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for five minutes, strain it, and drink up to six cups a day until your anxiety subsides. If you don't like the taste, stir in a teaspoon of honey. You should begin to notice an improvement a few hours after the first dose, but the best results occur after a month or more of regular use. Do not use kava kava with alcohol, if you are a heavy drinker, or if you have existing liver problems like hepatitis. Do not use kava kava while pregnant or nursing.

Arthritis

The Best Herb: "I've used boswellia (Boswellia serrata) with my arthritis patients for the last 10 years with dramatic results," says Chris D. Meletis, N.D., dean of naturopathic medicine at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Ore. The herb relieves symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Meletis adds that people who don't respond well to other natural treatments like glucosamine often improve with boswellia.

Both kinds of arthritis involve inflammation, and boswellia appears to inhibit the chemicals that trigger inflammation. Research on its use for osteoarthritis is preliminary, but herbalists we consulted say it works for their patients. As for rheumatoid arthritis, more than xo placebo-controlled German studies show that boswellia significantly reduces pain, swelling, and morning stiffness. Researchers concluded that the herb works as well as conventional therapies like aspirin and has fewer side effects.

The Best Dose: Take 400 mg of boswellia, standardized to approximately 65 percent boswellic acids, three times a day. You'll need to take it daily for at least a week to experience relief. The herb is safe to use indefinitely, but it causes mild stomach upset in some people. It hasn't been tested for safety in pregnant and nursing women, so consult your practitioner before taking it.

Asthma

The best Herb: The Middle Eastern herb khella (Ammi visnaga) helps halt asthma attacks before they start, says David Winston, a Broadway, N.J.-based herbalist and director of the Herbal Therapeutics Research Library, who has used the herb successfully with asthmatic patients. Scientists don't completely understand how khella works, but they do know that it dilates your bronchial passages, relaxing the same smooth muscles that spasm during asthma attacks, which allows you to breathe easier.

The Best Dose: Because of the serious nature of asthma, use this herb under the supervision of a health care professional, says Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac., a Davis, Calif.-based herbalist and acupuncturist. Take 1/4 teaspoon of khella liquid extract twice a day. You should begin to notice improvements in two to four days, and they'll gradually increase over time. If your asthma is triggered by allergies, take khella daily during your allergy season. But if you suffer from year-round asthma, take khella continuously. Do not use khella to stop an asthma attack once it starts; stick with conventional drugs for that. Do not use khella if you are pregnant or nursing. The herb may make you more sensitive to sunlight, so wear sunblock whenever you go outside for longer than 15 minutes.

Congestive Heart Failure

The Best Herb: If you suffer from congestive heart failure and live in Germany, your doctor is likely to treat you with hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) a respected heart treatment in that country. The herb improves your heart's ability to pump blood, improves blood flow, tones and relaxes your blood vessels, and has an excellent safety record, says Adriane FughBerman, M.D., a Washington, D.C.-based alternative medicine researcher and assistant clinical professor at George Washington University School of Medicine. A 2001 German study of 88 patients with congestive heart failure found that after three months of taking hawthorn, the patients could exercise longer, were less likely to feel fatigued, and had a better quality of life.

The Best Dose: Because of the serious nature of congestive heart failure and because hawthorn may enhance the effect of some heart medications, work with your doctor if you want to start taking it. You can use it in one of two ways: Try 1/2 teaspoon of hawthorn solid extract two or three times a day. (You'll find this paste in some natural food stores and on websites.) Or try 120 to 240 mg in capsule form three times a day. The herb requires four to eight weeks to take effect and you'll need to take it indefinitely.

Depression

The Best Herb: St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) remains the undisputed champion for mild to moderate depression, says James A. Duke, Ph.D., a Fulton, Md.-based herbalist and retired USDA botanist. (But it does not treat severe depression, he adds.) More than 30 double-blind studies have been done on this roadside flower, and researchers have concluded it's just as effective as its pharmaceutical counterparts Zoloft and Prozac, but has half the side effects. Despite all this research, experts still don't know exactly how St. John's wort works. It may lower stress hormones in your body or mimic the action of feel-good neurotransmitters in your brain.

The Best Dose: You can use St. John's wort one of two ways: Take 300 mg of St. John's wort, standardized to 0.3 percent hypericin, three to four times daily with meals, recommends Paul Saunders, N.D., Ph.D., naturopath and professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. Or take 30 drops of a standardized liquid extract in a few ounces of water four times a day. Be patient. The herb takes four to six weeks to improve your mood. If you don't notice a difference after eight weeks, consult a health care professional to try another treatment. And talk to a health care practitioner before you combine this herb with drugs; St. John's wort may decrease the effect of several pharmaceutical drugs, including birth control pills and HIV and heart medications. Seek the advice of a doctor or therapist if your depression is severe or you feel suicidal. St. John's wort has not been tested for safety in pregnant and nursing women, so consult your practitioner before taking it.

Diabetes

The Best Herb: Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) may reduce your diabetes symptoms by stimulating your pancreas to pump out more insulin. Meletis relies on the herb to help treat type z diabetes in his patients. Gymnema has been used for centuries by Ayurvedic medical practitioners in India, but research is still preliminary. A pair of small studies published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 1990 found that the herb reduced blood sugar so much that some patients discontinued conventional diabetes drugs. Lab tests suggest that gymnema may help control type 1 diabetes as well, but more research is needed, Winston says.

The Best Dose: Diabetes is a serious condition, so always work with your health care professional even if you're not on diabetes medications. Take 400 mg three times a day with meals. It takes three to four weeks to notice benefits, and you'll experience the improvements only as long as you take the herb. Gymnema has few side effects, but consult your health care professional before taking it if you are pregnant or nursing.

Enlarged Prostate

The Best Herb: Most men age 50 and older need to know about saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). This herb reduces the symptoms of enlarged prostate, a common problem of aging. A recent review of more than 20 controlled human trials concluded that saw palmetto reduced the symptoms of enlarged prostate, including nighttime bathroom trips, as effectively as pre scription medication but with fewer side effects. Scientists originally thought saw palmetto worked like drugs for enlarged prostate. But recent research disproves this, McCaleb says, and the exact mechanism of the herb is still a mystery.

The Best Dose: Take 320 to 640 mg of saw palmetto daily, Saunders recommends. You'll absorb the herb better if you take it with a meal that contains a little fat. You'll start to notice a difference in a month to six weeks, with progressive improvements for six months that then hold steady for as long as you take the herb. Saw palmetto may artificially reduce prostate specific antigen (PSA) scores (which are thought to indicate your prostate cancer risk), so make sure to tell your doctor that you're taking it.

Fatigue

The Best Herb: You can't beat Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) as a fatigue-buster. It safely and effectively strengthens your adrenal glands so that your body responds better to stress (something we could all use), Meletis says. This well-researched herb may also regulate your sleep cycle so that you feel more rested, and studies show that it can even improve the energy levels of shift workers.

The Best Dose: Take 400 mg in capsule form or 15 to 20 drops of liquid extract. Choose the nonstandardized form, and take one dose with breakfast and a second dose with lunch, Meletis recommends. Avoid taking the herb later in the day because it may make it harder to fall asleep at night. You should feel less tired within a few hours of your first dose. Don't use Siberian ginseng if you're pregnant or nursing, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or you take blood thinners like warfarin.

Hay Fever

The Best Herb: If you suffer from hay fever, the herb eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is a "phenomenal" solution, Winston says. Eyebright appears to make your immune system less reactive to airborne allergens. Although Winston and other practitioners know eyebright works, scientists have not subjected the herb to human trials. But they do know that the herb contains anti-inflammatory and astringent compounds, which reduce swelling and itching and dry up a runny nose.

The Best Dose: Take 1/4 teaspoon of eyebright liquid extract four times a day as needed. You should notice some improvement within z4 hours, although severe congestion may take longer to improve. The herb appears to be safe, but don't use it without the help of a health care professional if you're pregnant or nursing.

Herpes

The Best Herb: The herpes virus can be virulent, but you'll be surprised to learn that a garden herb can beat the symptoms into submission. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) can treat and prevent cold sores and genital herpes, both of which are caused by the herpes virus. Compounds in lemon balm appear to bind to the virus' receptor sites, preventing it from spreading. And the herb reduces symptoms like itching, burning, swelling, and tingling, and speeds healing, according to several double-blind, placebo-controlled human studies in Europe. Regular use of lemon balm cream may prevent future outbreaks.

The Best Dose: Apply a thick coat of lemon balm cream with a concentration of 70 to 1 to the affected area at least four times a day. (The concentration will be listed on the label.) You should begin to feel relief immediately. The herb has few to no side effects and can be used topically even if you are pregnant. Herpes is highly contagious and lemon balm does not prevent it from spreading to another person.

High Blood Pressure

The Best Herb: The herb dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) may quell high blood pressure. It works like prescription diuretics by decreasing your blood volume, which decreases your blood pressure, Meletis explains. Although researchers haven't studied the effect of this herb on people with high blood pressure, herbalists say they've seen it work in their patients.

The Best Dose: Take 400 to 800 mg of dandelion leaf (not root) capsules, divided into two doses with meals. You should experience the diuretic effect within a few hours (meaning you'll urinate more), and the blood pressure benefits should last for as long as you take the herb. Do not take dandelion if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction; it can exacerbate your problem. Consult your doctor before taking dandelion if you're pregnant or nursing. Diuretics can alter the effect of some prescription medicines, so talk to your doctor before using them.

High Cholesterol

The Best Herb: No one knows exactly how the Indian herb guggul (Commiphora mukul) works, but it may bind to cholesterol in your gut so that you eliminate it before it enters your bloodstream, Winston says. Researchers have studied guggul for 30 years and one 1994 study stands out. Published in Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy, it found that guggul reduced serum cholesterol by about 18 per, cent, LDL ("bad") cholesterol by 13 percent, and triglycerides by 12 percent.

The Best Dose: If you have high cholesterol, be sure to use guggul with the guidance of a health care practitioner. Take 250 to 500 mg three times daily with meals. Consult your practitioner before taking guggul if you're pregnant or nursing. In rare cases, some people may experience mild gastrointestinal distress, nausea, or a skin rash; reduce your dose if these occur.

Insomnia

The Best Herb: Your dreams of a blissful sleep can come true if you take valerian (Valeriana officinalis). The herb contains valproic acid, a substance that helps people relax and fall sleep, Saunders says. In a 2000 double-blind study, German scientists gave 75 insomniacs either valerian or a prescription insomnia drug 30 minutes before bedtime. Valerian worked just as well as the drug and had fewer side effects. Another study found that valerian helps people who can't sleep due to stress.

The Best Dose: Take 1/2 teaspoon of valerian liquid extract in a few ounces of water at dinnertime and again at bedtime, Saunders recommends. Put the bottle next to your bed; if you wake up in the night, take IA teaspoon more. Scan labels to find a liquid extract made with the fresh root and rhizome rather than pills or liquid extracts made from dried valerian, Hobbs says. Don't use valerian if you've had more than a glass or two of wine with dinner; alcohol will magnify the herb's effect. Be aware that some people may be stimulated rather than calmed by this herb; stop taking valerian if it makes you feel jittery. Consult your health care practitioner before taking valerian if you are pregnant or nursing.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The Best Herb: Just a tiny amount of peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) can curtail the frustrating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The oil relaxes the smooth muscle in your colon, stopping the cramps and spasms that afflict IBS sufferers. It may also relieve constipation, a common IBS symptom, by strengthening the muscle contractions that move waste through your intestines, Saunders says. A recent review of natural therapies for gastrointestinal problems found that peppermint capsules effectively decreased pain for kids with IBS.

The Best Dose: Take an enteric-coated capsule containing o.2 ml of peppermint oil at dinner and another capsule at bedtime, Saunders recommends. The enteric coating helps the capsule stay intact until it reaches your intestines, where it relieves IBS symptoms. The menthol in peppermint oil may cause heartburn in some people (if this happens, try taking it before you eat dinner, Saunders says). Do not take it while pregnant or nursing without the advice of a health care practitioner.

Memory loss

The Best Herb: If your memory is fading, promising research suggests that the Indian herb bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) can sharpen it. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published last summer found that adults who took bacopa daily had better short-term memories than those who took a placebo. Animal studies indicate that the herb works by activating the memory section of the brain, allowing it to perform better.

The Best Dose: Bacopa can be difficult to find; look for either powder or capsules in natural food stores or on the Internet. If you use the powder, mix 1/4 to 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of water and drink 3 cups a day. If you find capsules, take 60 mg three times a day. You should notice an improvement in two to four weeks, but you must use bacopa daily to get results. The benefits will last only as long as you take the herb. Bacopa has no known side effects, but consult your health care practitioner before taking it if you are pregnant or nursing.

Migraines

The Best Herb: If you suffer from migraines, you must try feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). A review of six double-blind, placebo-controlled human studies conducted on feverfew concluded that it prevents migraines in most people and has few side effects. The herb appears to work by inhibiting the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that may trigger migraines, and by relaxing constricted blood vessels in your head.

The Best Dose: Take 125 mg of feverfew standardized to 0.2 to 0.7 percent parthenolides twice a day with food, Saunders recommends. It may take up to four weeks of daily use to notice results, and you must take it indefinitely. Feverfew will not stop a migraine in progress. In rare cases it can cause mild stomach upset. There are no known drug interactions, but talk to your doctor if you're already taking conventional migraine drugs. Do not take feverfew without first consulting a health care practitioner if you are pregnant or nursing.

Nighttime Vision Loss

The Best Herb: If your vision fails after dark, the European herb bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) can make a noticeable short-term improvement in your sight, Winston says. During World War II, British Air Force pilots ate jars of bilberry jam before flying night missions to improve their night vision. Purple pigments in the berries, called anthocyanins, regenerate an essential protein in your eyes known as "visual purple." This protein is broken down in sunlight, which can dim your vision. The berries also protect your eyes against free radical damage caused by age and sunlight; studies in the 1980s found that bilberry extract stopped the progression of cataracts and diabetes-related eye damage.

The Best Dose: Take 120 to 240 mg of bilberry extract capsules twice daily, or eat 1/4 to 1/2 cup of blueberries daily (blueberries, a cousin of bilberries, work the same way, Winston says). Consult your health care professional before taking the capsules if you are pregnant or nursing.

Ulcers

The Best Herb: A proven soother of gastrointestinal ailments, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) or DGL helps gastric ulcers the same way it eases acid reflux, by coating the irritated tissues and reducing inflammation. DGL also increases levels of prostaglandins, fatty acids that help protect and heal ulcers. Several controlled studies have found that DGL treats ulcers as effectively as conventional ulcer drugs but with fewer side effects. Conventional drugs actually suppress your body's production of prostaglandins, increasing your risk of future ulcers and severe bleeding.

The Best Dose: Chew two to four 250 mg tablets of DGL twice daily with meals. DGL is safe for long-term use and you must take it daily to get results. If you have a Helicobacter pylori infection, which is thought to cause many ulcers, be aware that DGL doesn't kill bacteria. If you know you have H. pylori, use the herb goldenseal with DGL. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is rich in an antibiotic compound called berberine. Take up to four 500 mg capsules of goldenseal a day with meals. 10ng-term use of this herb may disrupt the good bacteria in your intestines, so don't take it for more than a week without consulting a health care practitioner. Avoid both DGL and goldenseal if you're pregnant or nursing.

Varicose veins

The Best Herb: Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) can minimize unsightly varicose veins and prevent future ones. Aescin and other compounds in the herb shore up weak capillaries and veins, reducing existing varicose veins and relieving the pain and swelling that accompany them. Horse chestnut effectively reduced leg pain from chronic venous insufficiency (a condition related to varicose veins) more than four times as effectively as a placebo, according to 13 studies involving more than 11,000 people. Be aware that the herb will only treat mild to moderate varicose veins; if yours are severe, the herb will not reverse them.

The Best Dose: To treat existing varicose veins, take 300 mg of horse chestnut capsules twice a day. To prevent varicose veins, take IO to 2,0 drops of horse chestnut liquid extract three times a day, Winston says. You'll need to take it for four to eight weeks to notice a difference. You may experience mild side effects like stomach upset, headache, and nausea; reduce your dose if this occurs. Horse chestnut thins your blood, so don't mix it with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin or take it before surgery. Consult your health care practitioner before taking it if you're pregnant or nursing.

When Good Herbs Get Bad Press

You've seen the headlines: St. John's wort and echinacea don't work. Kava kava is toxic to your liver. If these herbs are in your medicine cabinet, it's easy to become concerned and discouraged. Our experts offer this advice about how to read between the lines of these news stories.

Consider the Big Picture. "One study doesn't prove anything," points out Davis, Calif.-based herbalist and acupuncturist Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac. If previous studies consistently showed different results, a single study means little. It's usually unnecessary to change your habits until the results can be verified by later studies.

Check a Trusted Source for Comments, Organizations like the American Botanical Council (ABC) often respond to new research about herbs. These groups point out details that might flaw a study, like that researchers used too weak a dose or treated patients for too short a time. When you see news of a study, get the ABC's take by calling 512-926-4900 or visiting www.herbalgram.com. And talk to your doctor about herb headlines. She may not follow herb news closely, but it's worth asking.

Don't Ignore Headlines. Skepticism about herb headlines is healthy, but don't tune them out. Negative studies are as important as positive ones because they help us gain a new understanding of herbs. "They raise questions," Meletis says. "Maybe we need to be more specific about dosing, or maybe certain populations aren't intended to have an herb."....RESOURCES

Read More

Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae) effective in helping to repair the brain from damage

Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae)effective in helping to repair the brain from damage
herbalist , healthy , environment polution ,alternatif,

GINKGO

With its many benificial uses, Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae), has been used for hundreds of years in China. It's folk name is the Maidenhair Tree. Ginkgo is effective in helping to repair the brain from damage, it protects cell membranes from free radical damage, improving concentration and memory, increasing blood flow, helping the symptoms of PMS, and helping with depression. It also has been known to help treat conditions associated with aging such as strokes and heart disease. Impotence, Cochlear Deafness, and Macular Blindness are also some conditions it helps by improving circulation.

Most recently in the United States, Ginkgo has become the popular alternative for women taking hormones for menapause. In studies it has been shown to combat intellectual diminishnent due to lack of circulation to the brain. This herb has shown a very extensive ability to help with many ailments, all of which tend to be connected somehow to circulatory problems.

Ginkgo is commonly combined with other herbs such as Gotu Kola and Hawthorne Berries to help to excel its healing properties. It is combined with Gotu Kola when healing the brain of alzheimer's disease as well as dimentia and many others. Hawthorne berries are good to mix with Ginkgo to aid in healing the heart and circulatory system.

Magical Uses

Use Ginkgo to make a dye for cloth. The inner bark makes a whitish-brown colour. The dye contains lime and potassium carbonate.

Harvesting and Growing

Ginkgo grows best in China, where it originated. I don't have much information about growth cycles or harvesting. If you do, let me know in the guestbook!

How to take

It takes many leaves to extract any potency from the plant, so it is best to take in pill form rather than an infusion. You can buy it pre-packaged or the bulk herb in your local health food store. Ginkgo has recently become so popular (getting up there with Ginseng) that I saw a packaged version in Wal-Mart. (Wal-Mart is a local Super-grocery/K-Mart store)

Warning:

Do not take if you have clotting problems.

Read More

Ephedra Chinese: Ma Huang treatment of asthma, allergies, and sinus problems

Ephedra Chinese: Ma Huang treatment of asthma, allergies, and sinus problems
herbalist , healthy , environment polution ,alternatif,

Ephedra Chinese: Ma Huang

Ephedra or Ma Huang is a powerful herb that has been used in Chinese medicine for at least 5,000 years. It is the herb from which scientists have extracted ephedrine--one of the most effective drugs known for the treatment of asthma, allergies, and sinus problems. Ephedrine is what is found in most over the counter weight loss remedies and within a popular drug which is illegal in some American states called Mini-thins ©. Occasionally, Ma Huang has been mixed with other stimulants to get a combination of drugs to get high, this is highly not reccomended, and has been attributed to at least one cardiovascular accident that has resulted in death. Lack of knowledge caused political groups in several American states to get Ephedra banned. Nebraska is one which has put a ban on Ephedra, where as Ohio, who recently did have a ban, decided to lift it due to people coming forth.

Folk History

Ephedra's folk names (and this is probably a combination of Western and Chinese folk names) include Desert Tea, Desert Herb, Morman Tea, Squaw Tea, and Whorehouse Tea. The name Morman Tea originated with the use of the tea by Mormans who used it as a replacement stimulant for the coffee and black tea they couldn't drink. Ephedra tea was served in brothels in the 1800's because it had been claimed to cure gonorrhea and syphilis. Do not try this remedy these days, though, it didn't work.

Medicinal Value

Ephedra has been used extensively for the treatment of asthma, and also as a natural decongestant and antihistamine. It has become a very popular ingredient in herbal combinations for allergies and hay fever. Since it is a stimulant which increases the metabolism and increases body temperature, it has been used to control weight and to help prevent sleep. One of the side-effects of increased metabolism is an increased pulse rate and a slight elevation in blood pressure. Ephedra is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, heart problems or thyroid problems. Even though producers of the product have put the warings on the labels, there have been a few unfortunate cases where an overdose has occured due to disreagard of the dosage recomendations. A total of eight accidents have resulted in death.

Despite these events, Ephedra has an excellent safety record considering the large number of people who have used the herb. Especicaly when compared to Aspirin, because 20,000 Americans die each year from taking aspirin and aspirin substitutes.) When used properly the herb is as safe or safer than most over-the-counter medications. Just to make a point about how stimulating this herb can be, Epinephrine (pronounced eh-pin-ef-rin)(a word rooted from Ephedra)is another name for adrenaline. Ephedrine is a powerful stimulant. In fact, it's molecular structure is close to methamphetamine(speed). Ephedra can produce a positive urine test for amphetamines (speed). Some other medicinal uses of Ephedra include the decreasion of cigarette cravings, promotion of mensturation, and promotion of uterine contractions.

Harvesting and Growing

Ephedra plants grow very slowly and are not easy to raise. In Northern America it grows well in the South West United States and Mexico. Ephedra prefers dry soil and full sun and can be collected in any season, it flowers in early summer. When havesting, place large branches in a light-resistant bag (not plastic), and keep in hot place (sun, near a heater) until dry.

Magical Uses

Could not find any information abou the magical uses of Ephedra. If you know of any, please leave your information in the guestbook, or e-mail it to me at: info at asiarecipe.com

Dosage

The Chinese version (Ma Huang) containes significantly more ephidrine than the american. It is the Chinese version that is recommended for medicinal use. Take Ephedra as a decoction or tincture. Decoction: 2 cups/day. Tincture: 1/4-1 tsp. up to 3 x's a day. Make a tea from the dry branches in with 1tsp per 1 pint water 5-20 minutes.

Warnings:

Causes insomnia and dry mouth. Do not use if pregnant unless trying to promote birth. Causes uterine contractions and early mensturation.

Read More