Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Comfrey Leaves

Continuing with our October Breast Cancer Awareness theme, here is a closer look at a herb mentioned in our previous post 2 weks ago.
Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Today's supplement is Comfrey leaves.

Comfrey Leaves

Comfrey was highly valued by the Greeks as an herbal remedy. In medieval times, comfrey was used to mend fractured bones. Comfrey has many benefits, and can treat many ailments both internal and external. Comfrey has been used as an antibacterial and antifungal, to reduce inflammation, ease pain, stop swelling, and shrink blood vessels.

Comfrey grows in many areas of the world, from Newfoundland to Georgia to Louisiana, and is also found in Europe. It thrives in soft, wet ground and is usually found in meadows or valleys. Comfrey is a big plant and can be up to five feet tall. Its leaves are dark green, long, and oval-shaped, and they grow on the upright, branch at the top of the plant. It blooms from May to September and its flowers are soft, and bell-shaped, and are either purple or yellow. The root of the plant is dark, almost black, on the outside and pale and fleshy on the inside. The root secretes a thick liquid.

Medical Indications and Benefits

Comfrey is an effective remedy for a variety of conditions. It is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and to reduce swelling and inflammation. Comfrey is an anodyne, meaning that it relieves pain; it’s an astringents, meaning that it shrinks blood vessels; it expels mucous; it’s a haemostatic, meaning it can stimulated the clotting of blood; it’s a proliferant, meaning it stimulates cell growth; it’s a refrigerant and can be a mild sedative; and it expedite the healing process. Comfrey is often used to treat maladies like lung disorders, and it can help break up and build-up in the throat. Comfrey is a laxative. It contains a substance which will relieve diarrhea and assist food digestion. These properties make comfrey very valuable to people with bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Studies have also found that comfrey is beneficial in treating ulcers and diabetes. Mucilage, a gum-based thing that is produced by comfrey, keeps the bowel from emptying and represses the amounts of glucose and insulin that peak after meals. It also helps eliminate cholesterol, and the amount of nutrients in the comfrey leads to better general health.

Comfrey as a Food Supplement

Comfrey is an excellent tonic or dietary supplement because it contains many nutrients and beneficial chemicals, including protein, vitamins A and C. Comfrey is also one of only two plants that naturally contain vitamin B12 (alfalfa is the other one). Comfrey has many other B-complex vitamins as well. It also contains mucilaginous fiber, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, sulphur, copper, zinc, selenium, and germanium.

source: http://www.naturalherbsguide.com/
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week- Burdock Root

Continuing with our October Breast Cancer Awareness theme, here is a closer look at a herb mentioned in our previous post last week.

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Today's supplement is Burdock Root.

Burdock Root

Burdock is a root that is found in Europe in Asia. It has many medicinal qualities and has been used in many herbal remedies. The root is sweet to the taste and has a gummy consistency.

Traditionally, burdock has been used as a remedy for measles, arthritis, tonsillitis, viruses like colds, throat pain, and as a diuretic. In modern times, burdock is also used in oncology and to treat many other serious health problems.

Historical Uses of Burdock

Burdock root has often been used to purify the blood by removing toxins that can build up in blood. It can be taken orally or used topically as a remedy for skin disorders. Also, burdock root can be a diuretic or soothe aching joints. Traditional Chinese healers used burdock root in combination with other plants to make cures for colds, measles, throat pain, and tonsillitis. Burdock root was also popular in Japan as a source of vitamins and other nutrients. In modern times, burdock root has been employed in the treatment of certain cancers. However, this use of burdock root still needs to be systematically tested.

Historically, the seeds of the burdock plants were compressed to make a mixture that was effective in cleansing the bloodstream, easing pain from arthritis, and treating gout, rheumatism, ulcers, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its cancer-curing properties were also utilized in Russia and India. The Chinese used it as an aphrodisiac, and found it effective in treating barrenness and impotence.

Active Ingredients

Burdock’s active ingredients are arcigen, calcium, chlorogenic acid, essential oil, flavonoids, iron, inulin, lactone, mucilage, polyacetylenes, potassium, resin, tannin, and taraxosterol. The seeds of the plant contain beneficial fatty acids. The oil from the seeds can be used as a diaphoretic, which leads to increased perspiration, which is essential in cleansing the body of toxins or harmful elements. According to traditional healers, diaphoretics are integral to treating influenza, gallbladder or liver disorders, and to aid the kidneys which purify the blood.

Uses

Burdock root is eaten as a vegetable in many places. It has many nutrients like iron, inulin (a carbohydrate), and beneficial oils. Also, burdock can be used as a gentle laxative and help eradicate uric acid. Some of the active ingredients of burdock are polyacetylenes, which are known to be effective antibacterials and antifungals. Burdock enhances the performance of many of the organs which purify the body and eliminate toxins or waste (like the kidneys, liver, colon, etc). This enhances overall health and helps correct disorders.

Availability

Burdock is easily obtainable as an ingredient in teas, ointments, or pills. It is a powerful diuretic, and is safe to be taken internally, externally, or as food. However, it is important to make sure that the herb is pure. Some reports have indicated that burdock could have toxic properties, since cases of illness were reported that involved burdock tea. However, further analysis showed that the negative effects were the result of impure burdock root. Some belladonna, which contains atropine, had contaminated the burdock root. It is important to look at the source and purity of burdock root before obtaining it.

source: http://www.naturalherbsguide.com/

General Safety Advisory

~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.

~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider

-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.

~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.

~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Breast Cancer Herbs

Going away from our normal format we give you some excerpts from the book Breast Cancer?Breast Health! which gives you an overview of herbal remedies and treatments for breast cancer.

Using Herbs Safely
Excerpt from Breast Cancer? Breast Health!
by Susun Weed
Plants feed us, clothe us, house us, heal us, and can help us keep our breasts healthy, yet they can harm or kill us. Here's how to use them safely.
When you buy herbs, check that they are labeled with the botanical name (e.g., Trifolium pratense). Common names for plants often refer to several plants; botanical names are specific to one plant. "Marigold" refers to two plants with different uses.Calendula officinalis, or pot marigold, is a medicinal herb; Tagetes is the marigold usually sold for flower borders.
Learn about the weeds of your doorstep. Become more aware of the vitality and abundance of Nature. Eat or use as a remedy one wild plant that grows near you this year. When you make your own medicines and healing foods, you control one of the major ways you can come to harm from using herbs: mistaken identity (or right label, wrong herb). Not that you can't make mistakes, but you're more likely to catch your own mistake than someone else's. When you make your own medicines and healing foods, they are fresh, full of energy, and in tune with you and your environment.
The results and safety of any remedy are dependent on the way it is prepared and used. Notice that I prefer infused herbal oils (not essential oils) and powerful herbal infusions (not herbal teas).
Different people can have different reactions to the same substance, whether drug, food, or herb. If you take lots of herbs mixed together and have distressing side effects, how can you know which one is the cause? For safety, I use one herb (sometimes two, and only rarely three) at a time. Limiting the number of herbs I use in one day helps me discern my response to the plant allies I've chosen. If I have an adverse reaction, I can tell which herb caused it, avoid that herb, and try other herbs with similiar properties.
Side effects from herbs are less common than side effects from drugs and usually less severe. If an herb disturbs your digestion, it may be that your body is learning to process it. Give it a few more tries before deciding it's not for you. An herb that really doesn't agree with you may cause nausea, dizziness, sharp stomach pains, diarrhea, headache, or blurred vision, and these effects will generally occur quite quickly. Stop taking the herb or reduce the dose dramatically. Slippery elm is an excellent antidote to poisons; see Materia Medica.When a dosage range is given, start with the smallest recommended dose and increase as needed. Note: 25 drops is 1 ml.
Respect the power of plants to change the body and spirit in dramatic ways, even when taken in minute doses.
Increase your trust in the healing effectiveness of plants by trying remedies for minor or external problems (side effects of orthodox cancer treatments, for instance) before, or while, working with your major and internal problems.
Gather-in person or in books-with others interested in herbal, homeopathic, and home remedies. Call on them as well as professionals when you feel uncertain. Develop ongoing relationships with knowledgeable healers who are as interested in helping you maintain health as in helping you cure problems.
Respect the uniqueness of every plant, every person, every situation.
Remember that you become whole and healed in your own unique way, at your own speed. People, plants, and animals can help in this process. But your body/spirit does the healing/wholing. Don't expect plants to be cure-alls.
If you are allergic to any foods or medicines, it is especially important to check out the side effects of any herb you are considering using.Herbs comprise a group of several thousand plants with widely varying actions. Some are nourishers, some tonifiers, some stimulants and sedatives, and some are potential poisons. To use them wisely and well, we need to understand each category, its uses, best manner of preparation, and usual dosage range.Nourishers are the safest of all herbs; side effects are rare. Nourishing herbs are taken in any quantity for any length of time. They are used as foods, just like spinach and kale. Nourishers provide high levels of anti-cancer vitamins, minerals (especially selenium), antioxidants, carotenes, and essential fatty acids.
Nourishing herbs in Breast Cancer? Breast Health! include: alfalfa herb, amaranth, astragalus root, calendula flowers, chickweed, comfrey leaves, dandelion herb, fenugreek, flax seeds, honeysuckle flowers, lamb's quarter, marshmallow root, nettle herb, oatstraw, plantain leaves and seeds, purslane herb, raspberry leaves, red clover blossoms, seaweeds (kelp), Siberian ginseng, slippery elm bark, violet leaves, and wild and exotic mushrooms.Tonifiers act slowly in the body and have a cumulative, rather than immediate, effect. They build the functional ability of an organ (like the liver) or a system (like the immune system). Tonifying herbs are most beneficial when they are used in small quantities for extended periods of time. The more bitter the tonic tastes, the less you need to take. Bland tonics may be used in quantity, like nourishing herbs. Side effects occassionally occur with tonics, but are usually quite short-term. Many older herbals mistakenly equated stimulating herbs with tonifying herbs, leading to widespread misuse of many herbs, and severe side effects.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, potentially poisonous herbs are used as tonics by women at high risk of developing breast cancer. (The herbs are taken daily, for one week only out of every six months.)
Tonifying herbs in Breast Cancer? Breast Health! include: barberry bark, burdock root, chaga, chaste tree berries, cronewort (mugwort), dandelion root, echinacea root, elecampane root, fennel seeds, garlic, ginkgo leaves, ginseng root, ground ivy, hawthorn berries, horsetail herb, lady's mantle herb, lemon balm herb, milk thistle seeds, motherwort herb, mullein leaves, parsley herb, pau d'arco, peony root, raspberry herb, red-root, schisandra berries, self-heal herb, sundew herb, St. Joan's wort, turmeric root, usnea herb, wild yam root, and yellow dock root.Sedatives and stimulants cause a variety of rapid reactions, some of which may be unwanted. Some parts of the person may be stressed in order to help other parts. Strong sedatives and stimulants, whether herbs or drugs, push us outside our normal ranges of activity and may cause strong side effects. If we rely on them and then try to function without them, we wind up more agitated (or depressed) than before we began. Habitual use of strong sedatives and stimulants-whether opium, rhubarb root, cayenne, or coffee-leads to loss of tone, impairment of functioning, and even physical dependency. The stronger the herb, the more moderate the dose needs to be, and the shorter the duration of its use.
Herbs that tonify and nourish while sedating/stimulating-especially oatstraw, motherwort, and peppermint-are among my favorite herbs. I use them freely as they do not cause dependency. Sedating/stimulating herbs that also tonify or nourish are used frequently in Breast Cancer? Breast Health! including: boneset flowers, catnip, citrus peel, cleavers, ginger, hops, lavender, marjoram, motherwort, passion flower herb, many mints (e.g., lavender, rosemary, sage, and skullcap herbs), and sheep sorrel.
Strong sedating/stimulating herbs used in this book include: angelica, bayberry, blessed thistle root, cancerweed, cinnamom, cloves, licorice root, marijuana, oak, osha root, passion flower herb, shepherd's purse, sweet woodruff, turkey rhubarb root, uva ursu leaves, valerian root, Venus's flytrap, wild lettuce sap, willow bark, and wintergreen leaves.
Potentially poisonous herbs are potent medicines. They activate intense effort on the part of the body and spirit. Potentially poisonous herbs are taken in tiny amounts and only for as long as needed. Unexpected side effects are common when potentially poisonous herbs are used without regard for their power. To increase your sense of security when contemplating the use of a potentially poisonous herb, consult other herbal references and several experienced herbalists.Potentially poisonous herbs in Breast Cancer? Breast Health! include: arbor vitae, arnica, autumn crocus root, belladonna, blood-root, celandine, chaparral, comfrey root (not leaf), foxglove, goldenseal root, henbane, iris root, Jimson weed, lobelia, May apple (American mandrake) root, mistletoe, poke, poison hemlock, stillingia root, turkey corn root, wild cucumber root.
source: vitamin and health supplement guide
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider.

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Soy Isoflavones

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays supplement is Soy isoflavones .

Soy isoflavones
Soy isoflavones are a group of compounds found in and isolated from the soybean. Soy isoflavones are phytoestrogens which are plant-derived nonsteroidal compounds that possess estrogen-like biological activity. Isoflavones bind to estrogen receptors, affecting estrogen-regulated processes, and are therefore referred to as phytoestrogens (plant estrogens). Soy isoflavones are heterocyclic phenols with structural similarity to estradiol-17beta and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Isoflavones are a unique class of plant flavonoids that have a limited distribution in the plant kingdom and can be physically described as colorless, crystalline ketones. The most common isoflavone compounds are the conjugate, glucoside, and aglucone forms. The most common and important dietary source of these isoflavones are soybeans. Soy isoflavones comprise three main isoflavones and their glycosylated forms. The three main isoflavones are the aglycones genistein, daidzein and glycitein. Their glycosylated forms are called soy isoflavone glycosides which include genistin, daidzin, and glycitin. Isoflavones compounds, such as genistein and daidzein, are found in a number of plants, but soybeans and soy products like tofu and textured vegetable protein are the primary food source.
Health benefits of soy isoflavones
Soy isoflavones have been a component of the diet of certain populations for centuries. Soy isoflavones have estrogenic, antioxidant activity. They may also have anticarcinogenic, anti-atherogenic, hypolipidemic and anti-osteoporotic activities. Soy isoflavones are powerful plant substances chemically similar to the female hormone estrogen. Soy isoflavones can be used alone to treat or
prevent breast cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, and colon cancer or as mechanism inhibitors. Isoflavones alone may also reduce or prevent various symptoms related to the onset and duration of menopause, including hot flashes and osteoporosis. Isoflavones alone may also be effective in certain cardiovascular applications, including heart disease, reducing cholesterol-lipid levels, modulating angiogenesis, and other vascular effects. Moreover, isoflavones alone have been implicated in reducing headaches, dementia, inflammation, and alcohol abuse, as well as immunomodulation.
Isoflavones acts as antioxidants to counteract damaging effects of free radicals in tissues. Isoflavones may reduce the risk of hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer, as well as other cancers. By blocking enzymes thought to contribute to prostate cancer, soy isoflavones may delay or prevent its development. Isoflavones also have been found to have antiangiogenic effects (blocking formation of new blood vessels), and may block the uncontrolled cell growth associated with cancer, most likely by inhibiting the activity of substances in the body that regulate cell division and cell survival (growth factors). The soy isoflavone genistein has been reported to inhibit angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels that, when abnormal, can contribute to the development of cancer. Soy isoflavones have also been shown to inhibit 5 alpha-reductase, the enzyme that activates testosterone in the prostate gland and other tissues. Epidemiological studies have shown that populations with high intakes of soya foods, such as those of China, Japan and other Asian countries, usually have a reduced risk of cancers of the breast, prostate, colon and uterus.
Isoflavones can act like estrogen in stimulating development and maintenance of female characteristics or they can block cells from using other forms of estrogen. The mild estrogenic activity of soy isoflavones may ease menopause symptoms for some women, without creating estrogen-related problems. Soy may also be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis. Women approaching menopause who eat isoflavone-rich soy protein are significantly more likely to boost their bone mineral density than women whose diets are low in soy isoflavones. Soy isoflavones may help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats that many women experience during menopause.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends adding at least 25 grams of soy protein per day to a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart disease. Soy isoflavones prevent LDL cholesterol from harming the walls of blood vessels by decreasing the formation of plaque in the vessel wall.
Dietary sources of soy isoflavones
Isoflavone concentrations vary among soy products and among different brands of the same product. The highest levels are in whole bean products that have not been highly processed. Although many varieties of vegetables, grains, and legumes contain small amounts of isoflavones, by far the largest quantities are found in soybeans. Roasted soy nuts, tofu, tempeh, soy milk, meat substitutes, soy flour, and some soy protein isolates are also high in isoflavones. The soy germ, found in whole soybeans, is particularly high in isoflavones.In addition, the isoflavones present in soy are available as supplements, in capsules or tablets.
Dosage, intake, recommended daily allowance (RDA)
No formal recommendations for isoflavone intake have been reported. Consumption of isoflavones in Asian countries varies between 25 and 200mg a day. In general, 250ml soya milk or yoghurt, or 50g soya flour, cooked soya beans or textured vegetable protein (TVP) provide approximately 50mg isoflavones. 2 grams of soy protein contains approximately 1 milligram of soy isoflavones. Most isoflavone supplements provide 25-100mg total isoflavones. The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) HAS reported that the consumption of 50 mg/day may reduce cholesterol, 40 to 80 mg/day may strengthen blood vessels and possibly improve blood pressure, 50 mg/day may keep bone health, and 40 to 80 mg/day may reduce hot flashes.
Side effects, overdosage symptoms, interactions
Soy products are generally very safe. Common allergic side effects include stomach upset and digestive problems including constipation and diarrhea. Soy isoflavones have been reported to reduce thyroid function in some people. Soy products may worsen kidney stones, decrease thyroid hormone production, or increase the risk of bladder cancer. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use soy isoflavone supplements because of their estrogenlike effects. The phytoestrogen components of soy may interfere with the drug tamoxifen and raloxifene. High intakes of soy protein may interfere with the efficacy of the anticoagulant medication warfarin. A high-fiber diet may interfere with the absorption of soy isoflavones.
source: vitamin and health supplement guide
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Echinacea

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is Echinacea.

Echinacea

Echinacea is the name of a genus of native North American plants, commonly known as the purple coneflower. There are nine species of this herb, but just three (Echinacea angustifolia, E. palli da, and E. purpurea) are used medicinally. Echinacea is a perennial, growing up to twenty inches in height, producing large, beautiful, daisylike purple flowers and leaves covered in coarse hair. The flowers produced by the plant are purple in colour and seated at the base of a high cone. The flowering head is orange and cone-shaped, bearing purple, rose, or white petals from June to September. Echinacea leaves are pale to dark green, coarse and pointy. The dark green leaves are opposite, entire, lanceolate, toothed, and hairy with three prominent veins. The tapering root is greyish-brown flecked with white. Echinacea is a popular herb used primarily to reduce the symptoms and duration of colds and flu-like illnesses. It is believed to work through short-term stimulation of the immune system. Echinacea is also known as the American cone flower, black Susan, black Sampson, comb flower, hedgehog, Indian head, Kansas snakeroot, narrow-leaved purple coneflower, scurvy root, and snakeroot.

Active constituents and clinical pharmacology of echinacea

Echinacea contains a variety of chemical compounds which have significant pharmacological functions. Echinacea contains alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, polysaccharides, volatile oil (including humulene and caryophylene), glycoside (echinacoside), polyacetylenes, isobutylalkamines, echinaceine, phenolics, inulin, betain, resins, flavonoids, glycoproteins, sesquiterpene esters (echinadiole, epoxy -echinadiole, echinax-anthole, and dihydor-xynardole), phytosterols, carbohydrates and vitamin C. Caffeic acid derivatives (e.g. echinacoside, cichoric and chlorogenic acids and cynarin) may play roles in stimulating phagocytosis. Inulin and other high molecular weight polysaccharides such as heteroxylan, arabinogalactan, and fucogalactoxyloglucans stimulate macrophages and they possess anti-inflammatory activity. Echinacein and several isobutylamides are responsible for the local anesthetic effect and some of the anti-inflammatory activity of echinacea. Inulin is responsible for activating pathways in the body, which help neutralize viruses and bacteria, and boost the migration of white blood cells to infection sites. The rich content of polysaccharides and phytosterols in echinacea are what make it a strong immune system stimulant. The polysaccharides act as immune stimulants by increasing the levels of white blood cells. They also inhibit the breakdown of cell walls, so that pathogens cannot easily invade cell tissues. The sesquiterpene esters also have immunostimulatory effects. The caffeic acid derivative echinacoside does have mild antibiotic properties. Echinacea also has cortisone-like actions which can help promote the healing of wounds and helps to control the inflammatory reactions of allergies.

Medicinal uses and health benefits of echinacea

Echinacea is a popular herb used primarily to reduce the symptoms and duration of the common cold and flu and to alleviate the symptoms associated with them, such as sore throat (pharyngitis), cough, and fever. Treatment of upper respiratory infections
including colds, influenza, tonsillitis, otitis media, sore throat, and whooping cough accounts for the most widespread use of echinacea today. As an immune-booster, echinacea can be particularly helpful for fighting these recurrent infections. Echinacea stimulates the immune system which results in an increased ability to resist infections. Echinacea has potent immune system actions and impacts the thymus gland, the activation of T cells, and the promotion of interferon production and secretion. The herb's immune-boosting properties make it particularly helpful for fighting chronic upper respiratory infections.
Echinacea is also used topically in the treatment of wounds and burns. Echinacea is vulnerary, promoting wound healing through the action of a chemical substance in the root known as caffeic acid glycoside. As a natural antibiotic and infection fighter, echinacea promotes the healing of all kinds of skin irritations, including burns, cuts and scrapes, boils, abscesses, canker sores, and eczema, and herpes infections. Echinacea is considered one of the best blood purifiers found in nature. It also improve slymphatic filtration and drainage and assists in clearing the blood from damaging toxins. A tincture, or a strong decoction of echinacea serves as an effective mouthwash for the treatment of pyorrhea and gingivitis.

Dosage and administration of echinacea

Recommended dosages of echinacea differ widely depending on the product. Echinacea is available in extracts, tinctures, tablets, and capsules. Echinacea is also available in combination with other immune-boosting herbs, vitamins, and minerals. Ointments and salves containing root or leaf extracts are also available for topical application in the treatment of wounds and skin diseases. Approximately 250-500mg per day of a concentrated extract (5-6:1) is a typical dosage recommendation. The usual daily dosage of echinacea purpurea leaf is 1 to 2 grams dried root or 2 to 3 mL of standardized tincture extract, for general immune system stimulation, during colds, flu, upper respiratory tract infections, or bladder infections.

Side effects, precautions, interactions

There are no known side effects from internal or external use of echinacea. Allergies may occur in patients allergic to plants belonging to the daisy family. Echinacea should not be used in progressive systemic and auto-immune disorders such as tuberculosis, leicosis, connective tissue disorders, collagenosis and related diseases. It should not be used with other known hepatotoxic drugs such as anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate or ketoconazole.

source: vitamin and health supplement guide

General Safety Advisory

~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.

~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider

-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.

~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.

~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider.

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Tea Tree Oil

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is Tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a yellow or green-tinged essential oil with a fresh camphoraceous odour. It is extracted from the leaves of the tree Melaleuca alternifolia which is native to the northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia. The oil is claimed to have benefical cosmetic and medical properties (including antiseptic and antifungal action). The plant genus Melaleuca is part of the myrtle family Myrtaceae and presently contains about 170 species. Most are endemic to Australia but example occur in the wild as far afield as Indonesia, New Guinea, New Caledonia and even Malaysia. They are shrubs and trees growing (depending on species) to 2-30 m tall, with flaky, exfoliating bark. The leaves are evergreen, alternately arranged, ovate to lanceolate, 1-25 cm long and 0.5-7 cm broad, with an entire margin, dark green to grey-green in colour. The flowers are produced in dense clusters along the stems, each flower with fine small petals and a tight bundle of stamens; flower colour varies from white to pink, red, pale yellow or greenish. The fruit is a small capsule containing numerous minute seeds. Melaleuca alternifoli has a papery bark, pointed needle-like leaves, and heads of yellow or purplish flowers that when open, resemble a puffy, feathery mass.
Active constituents of tea tree oil
The main active components in tea tree oil are terpinen-4-ol, 1,8-cineole, gamma-terpinene, p-cymene and other turpenes. Terpinen-4-ol is a powerful germacide, fungicide, and significantly antiseptic but well tolerated by the skin. Terpinen-4-ol is responsible for most of the antimicrobial activity of tea tree oil. Cineole has expectorant and antiseptic properties. Australian standards regulate the amount of terpinen-4-ol should make up at least 30% and preferably 40–50% of the oil for it to be medically useful. Another compound, cineole, should make up less than 15% and preferably 2.5% of the oil.
Medicinal uses and health benefits of tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and healing properties. It is used extensively as an anti-microbial, antiseptic, disinfectant,
deodorizern antispasmodic, diaphoretic, expectorant, and stimulant. Tea tree oil may kill toenail fungus, fungal infections in the mouth and skin, athlete's foot, some bacterial infections, vaginal infections, and herpes infections. Tea tree oil has been shown to be effective in countering Trichophyton, the fungus that causes numerous topical infections, including athlete's foot and jock itch. tea tree oil is effective against Pityrosporum ovale, a fungus that can cause dandruff. Tea tree oil inhibits several common skin pathogens. Terpinen-4-ol and whole tea tree oil were found equally effective for activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Tea tree oil had a much slower onset of action but also had fewer adverse side effects, such as skin scaling, dryness, and irritation. It is also used to relieve mild burns, insect bites, sunburn, and other relatively minor skin conditions. Tea tree oil is used in a number of pet shampoos to kill ticks and fleas and is claimed to repel insects. It is also used to treat the itching of insect bites. Tea tree oil has pain-numbing properties and can be used topically for sprains, arthritis, bunions, bursitis, eczema, gout, carpal tunnel syndrome , and hemorrhoids. Massaging tea tree oil into the affected area may alleviate the discomfort of sore muscles or joint injuries. It also reduces hypertrophic scarring. Tea tree oil added to warm water and used as a mouthwash is a common remedy to help protect against periodontal disease and gingivitis. Tea tree oil, with its medicinal, fresh, woody, earthy fragrance, is a deep cleansing and stimulating oil with strong antibacterial properties. It also may be used in the treatment of candida, chicken pox, cold sores, colds, corns, cuts, flu, insect bites, itching, migraine, ringworm, sinusitis, sores, spots, urethritis, warts, and whooping cough.
Dosage and administration of tea tree oil
For minor skin wounds, insect bites and stings, and irritations, cleanse the wound and apply one or two drops of tea tree oil to the affected area two or three times daily. For athelete's foot, apply 10% tea tree oil cream two times per day after washing and drying the feet. A topically applied 5% solution appears to be effective in treating acne. For fungal infections of fingernails or toenails, apply 100% tea tree oil twice a day for 6 months.
Side effects, precautions, interactions
Tea tree oil is considered to be safe as a topical treatment. Skin rashes, temporary dryness, itching, redness, irritation, inflammation of the corners of the mouth, and eczema may occur in people with allergies to tea tree oil. Tea tree oil should not be taken by mouth due to possible toxicity. It should not be used in the ears because it may cause hearing loss.
source: vitamin and health supplement guide
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural herb or Supplement of the Week - Catnip

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is Catnip.

Catnip
Catnip (nepata cataria) is a member of the mint family (Labiatae) native to Europe and Asia but naturalized in the United States. Catnip is a whitish-gray plant with a minty odor. Flowers are tubular, white with purple-pink spots, and are arranged in dense whorls on spikes. The clusters of white or pale lavender tubular flowers with purplish spots are in bloom from July to September. The leaves are heart-shaped and toothed and covered with a soft, close down. Catnip contains volatile oil that cats find stimulating. The leaves and the flowering tops are used in herbal medicine. The other names of the plant are catnep, catmint, cat’s-play, catrup, catwort, nip, nep, and field balm.
Active constituents of catnip
Catnip contains volatile oils, sterols, acids, and tannins, including nepetalactone, nepetalic acid, nepetalic anhydride, citral, limonene, dispentine, geraniol, thymol, citronella, nerol, -caryophyllene, and valeric acid. The volatile oil in catnip contains the monoterpene, nepetalactone, which is similar to the valepotriates found in valerian, a more commonly used herbal sedative. Nepetalactone has been found to be very repellant to cockroaches, termites, and mosquitoes. Another ingredient thymol extracted from catnip has beneficial antiseptic uses on the skin and in the nasal and pharyngeal passages.
Medicinal uses and health benefits of catnip
As herbal remedies, catnip has been used as an antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, nervine, stomachic,
stimulant, and mild sedative. They are used to alleviate symptoms such as insomnia, stress, menstrual cramps, and gut cramps.
Catnip is effective alone or in herbal remedies for colds, flu, fevers, upset stomach, and insomnia. Catnip is particularly good for children with upset stomachs in a very mild infusion. atnip has been used for relief of insomnia and prevention of nightmares, and has a mild anti-spasmodic effect and is used to treat cramps. As carminative with anti-spasmodic properties, catnip is antiflatulent and settling to the stomach, catnip eases any stomach upsets, dyspepsia, flatulence and colic. Its sedative action on the nerves adds to its generally relaxing properties.
Catnip is used to ease cramps, and it is believed to have sedative properties that can remedy nervous disorders and migraine headache. The dried leaves can also be used to make a pillow that can be slipped into a pillowcase to promote sleep. Poultices made from catnip have commonly been used for toothaches. Catnip is an astringent, and can be applied externally to cuts and scrapes to stop bleeding and promote healing. The leaves of catnip have traditionally been chewed as a remedy for alleviating toothaches.
How to use catnip products
Catnip is most commonly taken as an infusion, or tea. To make tea, use 10 teaspoonfuls of Catnip per quart of water. Then steep for ten to fifteen minutes. Drink 2–3 cups per day. Catnip is also available in tincture form to take by mouth or apply topically. For children with coughs, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of tincture three times per day can be used. Adults may take twice this amount.
Side effects, precautions, interactions
There are no known side effects or health hazards associated with recommended dosages of catnip preparations. Catnip may act to promote uterine contractions, it should not be used during pregnancy. Catnip has diuretic properties, and may increase the frequency and amount of urination. It can also cause an upset stomach in some individuals. There are no known negative interactions between catnip and other medications and herbs.
source: vitamin and health supplement guide
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Grape Seed Extract

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is Grape Seed Extract.

Grape Seed Extract.

Grape seed extract is derived from the small seeds of grapes. Grape is a family of mostly climbing shrubs, widespread in tropical and subtropical regions and extending into the temperate zones. Grapes are native to Asia near the Caspian Sea, but were brought to North America and Europe around the 1600's. This plant's climbing vine has large, jagged leaves, and its stem bark tends to peel. The grapes may be green, red, or purple. Grape seeds are rich in chemicals called proanthocyanidins that exhibit antioxidant properties. Grape seed extract is the primary commercial source of a group of powerful antioxidants known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), also generically called pycnogenol, a class of flavonoids. Commercial preparations of grape seed extract are usually standardized on the basis of their proanthocyanidin content.

Grape seed proanthocyanidins

The active ingredients of grape seed include procyanidins (also known as condensed tannins, pycnogenols, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins or OPCs), flavonoids, linoleic acid, and vitamin E. Grape seeds contain a high content of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Grape seed proanthocyanidins are mainly comprised of dimers, trimers and tetramers of catechin and epicatechin and their gallates. The OPCs are chemically known as flavonoids or polyphenols. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins act as antioxidants (free radical scavengers) in the human body. OPCs are much more effective than vitamin C and vitamin E in neutralizing free oxygen radicals. OPCs may help protect against the effects of internal and environmental stresses (such as cigarette smoking, pollution, and supporting normal body metabolic processes). Proanthocyanidin also strengthens the tiny blood vessels called capillaries, preventing leakage and reducing swelling in nearby tissues.

Medicinal uses and health benefits of grape seed extract

Grape seed extract is famous for its strong antioxidant ability to neutralize free radicals and may help treat or prevent a range of health problems related to free radical damage, including heart disease and cancer. The antioxidants in grape seed extract neutralize mutations within the genetic material of cells that could lead to tumor formation. Thus it is useful to prevent the development and progression of cancers of the lung, breast, stomach, prostate, colon, skin and other body parts may be stalled as a result. Antioxidants in grape seed extract may help prevent damage to blood vessels and other changes that may contribute to the development of heart disease. Grape seed extract may help to prevent and treat heart diseases such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Grape seed extract reduces capillary permeability and fragility and may be used for the treatment and prevention of vascular or circulatory disorders such as venous insufficiency, peripheral vascular disease, and varicose veins. The antioxidant effect of grape seed serves to reduce the buildup of the bad cholesterol that clogs the arteries and leads to stroke and heart attacks. Grape seed extract may be useful in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis. The flavonoids in grape seed also inhibit allergic reactions that can generate such skin problems as eczema. The antioxidant power of grape seed extract can help by protecting besieged muscle cells from damage which may lead to fibromyalgia. Grape seed extract is effective in preventing damage to human liver cells caused by chemotherapy medications. Pycnogenol in g rape seed helps inhibit the production of histamines, which decreases sensitivity to pollens and food allergens, thereby reducing allergic reactions. Grape seed extract improves blood flow in the eye's tiny vessels, where certain eye diseases can cause blockages and impairments that result in vision damage. Grape seed had been used for its liver protective effects, to improve circulation, and to improve skin tone and elasticity. Grape seed extract has been found to be beneficial in treating several respiratory conditions, including asthma, emphysema, allergies, and sinusitis.

source: vitamin and health supplement guide

General Safety Advisory

~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.

~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.

~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.

~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is cranberry.

Cranberry
The cranberries are a group of evergreen dwarf shrubs in the genus Vaccinium subgenus Oxycoccus, or in some treatments, in the distinct genus Oxycoccus. They are found in acidic bogs throughout the cooler parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Cranberries are
tart, round, deep red berries, grown primarily in wet, sandy coastal lands, or bogs, in the northeastern United States. They are available fresh autumn through early winter and frozen year-round. Cranberries are low, creeping shrubs to 10 cm tall (often less), with slender, wiry stems, not thickly woody, and small evergreen leaves. The flowers are dark pink, with very distinct reflexed petals, leaving the style and stamens fully exposed and pointing forward. The fruit is a berry that is larger than the leaves of the plant. It is initially white, but turns a deep red when fully ripe. The name cranberry probably derives from their being a favourite food of cranes, though some sources claim the name comes from "'craneberry' because before the flower expands, its stem, calyx, and petals resembled the neck, head, and bill of a crane". Another name, used in northeastern Canada, is mossberry.
There are four species of cranberry. Vaccinium oxycoccus or Oxycoccus palustris (Common Cranberry or Northern Cranberry) is widespread throughout the cool temperate Northern Hemisphere, including northern Europe, northern Asia and northern North America. It has small 5-10 mm leaves. The flowers are dark pink, with a purple central spike, produced on finely hairy stems. The fruit is a small pale pink berry, with a refreshing sharp acidic flavour. Vaccinium microcarpum or Oxycoccus microcarpus (Small Cranberry) occurs in northern Europe and northern Asia, and differs from V. oxycoccus in the leaves being more triangular, and the flower stems hairless. Vaccinium macrocarpon or Oxycoccus macrocarpus (American Cranberry) native to the northeastern part of the North American continent (eastern Canada, and eastern United States south to North Carolina). It differs from V. oxycoccus in the leaves being larger, 10-20 mm long. The American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) produces clusters of white, urn-shaped flowers which turn into bright red, tart berries in August or September. The shrubs grow only about a foot tall, but their capacity to spread is unlimited. The sprawling stems will take root wherever they touch the ground. The berries tend to be bitter before the first frost, but the flavour improves thereafter. Vaccinium erythrocarpum or Oxycoccus erythrocarpus (Southern Mountain Cranberry) native to the southeastern part of the North American continent at high altitudes in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Active constituents and clinical pharmacology of cranberry
The main active constituents of cranberry are phytochemicals (proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins), carbohydrates (glucose, fructose), organic acids (ascorbic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, quinic acid, malic acid), and vitamin C, triterpenoids, catechins, lectins. The cranberry fruit is high in antioxidants, partly from substances called proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins specifically interfere with type P fimbrial adherence of uropathogenic E. coli. They may also help relieve diarrheal symptoms. Proanthocyanidins also help prevent microorganisms from causing infections (such as urinary tract infections) and appear to have cancer fighting properties. The organic acids are responsible for the sour taste of cranberries, acidify the urine and prevent kidney stones. Malic acid, for example, is known to help guard against diarrhea, while regulating digestion. Cranberries are rich sources of vitamins including vitamin A , carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C. And many essential minerals, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, sulfur, iron and iodide, are also found in cranberry. The vitamins and minerals are strong antioxidants which help protect the body against such infections as colds or influenza. In addition, like many other fruits, cranberries are a good source of fiber.
Medicinal uses and health benefits of cranberry
Historically, cranberry juice has been used to prevent kidney stones and "bladder gravel" as well as to remove toxins from the blood
. Today, the major clinical use for cranberry is to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI). Taking cranberry juice or pills by mouth may help prevent urinary tract infections and may particularly work against the bacteria Escherichia coli. Women get UTIs when bacteria get into the relatively short female urethra and move up to the bladder. There they grow and spread to other parts of the urinary tract. Women with recurrent urinary tract infections appear to be especially susceptible to adhesion by uropathogenic bacteria. Uropathogenic strains rely on Type P fimbrial adhesion to allow colonization and infection. The proanthocyanidins in cranberry and blueberry prevent Type P fimbrial adhesion of uropathogenic strains of E. coli.
Cranberry also has been recommended as an adjunctive treatment for Candida infections. Cranberry juice exerts fungistatic effects against dermatophytic and other fungi but has no effect against Candida albicans. Cranberry juice is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Those vitamins and minerals are thought to have detoxifying and purifying properties. Cranberry juice may increase plasma antioxidant levels reducing the risk of heart disease. Cranberry has also been used to prevent kidney stones, as well as to remove unwanted toxins from the body. Cranberries may serve as a digestive aid. Because of their high acidity, they help to digest fatty foods and increase the appetite.
Dosage and administration of cranberry
Cranberries are available fresh or frozen and in juice and concentrate forms. Dried berries are also available in tablet or capsule form. Most cranberry preparations are highly sweetened with sugar, corn syrup, saccharin or fructose to enhance palatability. Cranberry cocktail juices are generally diluted 70% or more with water. The recommended daily dose of cranberry juice for preventing urinary tract infections is three or more fluid ounces of cranberry juice cocktail containing at least 33% cranberry juice. The recommended daily dose for treating urinary tract infections is up to 960 ml of the same concentration, divided into three or four doses (such as four 500 mg capsules, three or four times a day).
Side effects, precautions, interactions
Drinking cranberry juice in large quantities can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Cranberry contains relatively high levels of oxalate, a substance that may increase the risk of kidney stones in people who are at risk for this condition. Cranberry should not be used as a substitute for antibiotics during a serious UTI. Cranberry juice may decrease the effectiveness of antacid medications. Cranberry juice may increase the absorption of proton pump inhibitor drugs. Cranberry shouldn't be used as a substitute for an antibiotic in acute infections. Patients with diabetes should use sugar-free cranberry products.
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider
source:http://www.vitamins-supplements.org/

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - Lemon Balm

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays herb is
Lemon balm.

Lemon balm(Melissa officinalis),
also known as balm gentle, balm mint, sweet balm, melissa, bee herb, sweet Mary, honey plant, cure-all and dropsy plant, is a perennial herb from the mint family Lamiaceae native to Europe but is now grown all over the world. The plant develops many branches and grows to a height of about two feet. The leaves are 2 to 3 inches long, oval to almost heart shaped, shiny and wrinkled with scalloped edges. The heart shaped, deeply-veined leaves exude a pleasant lemon scent when brushed against or crushed. The leaves are very deeply wrinkled and range from dark green to yellowish green in color, depending on the soil and climate. In the spring and summer, clusters of small, light yellow flowers grow where the leaves meet the stem. Lemon balm, often called balm which is an abbreviation of balsam and means sweet smelling oil, is a bee plant. At the end of the summer, little white flowers full of nectar appear. These attracts bees, hence the name "Melissa" (Greek for 'bee'). Lemon balm is grown not only in herb gardens, but also in crops for medicine, cosmetics, and furniture polish manufacturing.
Active constituents of lemon balm
Essential oils made from lemon balm leaves contain citral, citronella, eugenol, flavonoids (luteolin-7-O-glucoside, isoquercitrin, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, and rhamnocitrin), triterpenoids, rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, methyl carnosoate, hydroxycinnamic acid, polyphenols, and tannin (caffeic acid). The terpenes in lemon balm provide relaxing and antiviral effects. The tannins thought to cause many of the herb's antiviral effects. Lemon balm also contains eugenol, which calms muscle spasms, numbs tissues, and kills bacteria. Rosmarinic acid has an inhibitory effect on the complement system involved in inflammatory processes. The antioxidant effect of rosmarinic acid is superior even to that of a vitamin E derivative (alpha-tocopherol acid succinate).
Medicinal uses and health benefits of lemon balm
Lemon balm is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, sedative, and thyroid-regulating. Lemon balm is used to treat children with fever, flu, and colds. In adults, it treats colds, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia, and nervous stomachs. Lemon balm is a soothing, sedative herb that can relieve tension and lift depression. Lemon balm is used as aromatherapy to calm overexcited individuals suffering from dementia. Ointments containing lemon balm may help heal lip sores associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV) by inhibiting HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. Lemon balm's leaves were found to contain substances that inhibit protein biosynthesis in cancer cells. Caffeic acid and a glycoside isolated from the leaves were responsible for this anti-tumor activity. Lemon balm has the ability to bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). It has been used in the past to treat Grave's disease, an autoimmune condition in which the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone. The plant has antihistamine properties and helps with allergies. Lemon balm infusions, taken hot, will induce sweating. Lemon balm combined with other calming herbs (such as valerian) helps reduce anxiety and promote sleep. When applied to cold sores or genital sores caused by the herpes simplex virus, creams or ointments containing lemon balm have speeded healing. Lemon balm also been used to relieve gas, reduce fever, and soothe stomach problems due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties
Dosage and administration of lemon balm
To make lemon balm tea, pour a cup (8 ounces) of hot water over 2 to 4 grams (about one tablespoon) of crushed lemon balm leaves, steep for 5 to 10 minutes, and strain. And drink several times daily for difficulty sleeping, or reducing stomach complaints, flatulence, or bloating. For cold sores or herpes sores, steep 2 to 4 tablespoon of crushed leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Apply tea with cotton balls to the sores throughout the day. For gastrointestinal (GI) complaints, lemon balm may be combined with peppermint or other herbals that also have GI effects
Side effects, precautions, interactions
Side effects or symptoms of toxicity have been rarely reported with lemon balm use. However, this herb should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Lemon balm should not be taken by individuals with thyroid conditions or glaucoma, as lemon balm may interfere with drugs that treat thyroid conditions. Oral lemon balm may cause dizziness or nausea. Topically, it may produce irritation where it is applied.
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider
source: vitamin and health supplement guide

Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week - St. John's Wort

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Todays supplement is St John's Wort.

St John's Wort
St John's wort used alone refers to the species Hypericum perforatum, also known as Hypericum perforatum, klamath weed, John's wort, amber touch-and-heal, goatweed, rosin rose, and milleperituis. St. John's wort was named after St John's Day which falls on June 24, the approximate flowering season in the northern hemisphere. The genus name "hypericum" is derived from the Greek words hyper (above) and eikon (picture) in reference to the traditional use of the plant to ward off evil, by hanging plants over a picture in the house during St John's day. The species name "perforatum" refers to the small windows in the leaves, which can be seen when they are held against the light. St John's wort is a yellow-flowering, rhizomatous, perennial herb indigenous to Europe, which has been introduced to the Americas and grows wild in many meadows. St John's wort is a perennial from underground runners, growing 0.3 to 1 metre in height. Stems are square in cross section with 4 raised lines and leaves about 3/4 inch long, without translucent glandular dots or with few large ones in the upper leaves. The woody, branched root spreads from the base with runners that produce numerous stalks. Flowers are bright yellow with five petals and are about 3/4 inch across. The whole plant above the ground is harvested when the plant is just flowering. The black dots often visible along the petal margins are glands containing hyericin. Both the flowers and leaves are used for medicinal purposes.
Active constituents of St John's Wort
The major constituents in St. John's wort include hypericin, pseudohypericin, other dianthrones, flavonoids, xanthones, tannins, and hyperforin. Hyperforin is believed to be the major constituent responsible for antidepressant activity, and has been shown to inhibit the uptake of 5-HTP, dopamine, noradrenaline, GABA and glutamate. Hypericin extract contains at least ten groups of constituents that may contribute to the pharmacological activity of the herb. Hypericin is a napthodianthrone derivative that readily enters the bloodstream and is not broken down in the liver. This compound absorbs sun energy, and when it is fully oxidized turns black in plant tissues.
Medicinal uses and health benefits of St John's Wort
St. John's wort has been used as an herbal medicine for centuries, both orally and topically, as an anti-inflammatory, sedative, analgesic, diuretic, antimalarial, and wound-healing agent. St. John's wort has been used in the treatment of mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stomach upset, insomnia, fluid retention, and hemorrhoids. St. John's wort has also been used topically in the treatment of nerve and muscle pain, skin inflammation, skin wounds, and burns.
St. John's wort has been effective in reducing depressive symptoms in those with mild to moderate but not severe (called major) depression. St. John's wort herb works better than a placebo in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. St. John's wort appears to boost levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which affects the emotions. As an antidepressant, St. John's wort inhibits an enzyme which degrades certain neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. The herb may also aid in treating depressive elements of chronic fatigue syndrome and seasonal affective disorder.
St. John's wort has been used externally as an anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic. St. John's wort has been reputed to inhibit replication of several viruses, including the Herpes simplex, HIV, and the virus that causes mononucleosis. St John's Wort has an anti-inflammatory action and helps to stimulate the growth and repair of skin tissue. Applied to the skin, oily preparations of the herb have an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action. It's particularly effective when applied topically (in the form of an ointment) for the treatment of burns, cuts, scrapes, and minor skin irritations. St. John's wort cream or ointment can soothe the pain of hemorrhoids.
Dosage and administration of St John's Wort
St. John's wort is available in capsules, tablets, tinctures, teas, and oil-based skin lotions. Chopped or powdered forms of the dried herb are also available. St. John's wort products should be standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin. The usual dose for mild depression and mood disorders is 500–1,050 mg of St. John's wort extract, three times per day, with meals. To treat inflammation, as in wounds, burns or hemorrhoids, an oil-based preparation of St. John's wort can be applied topically
Side effects, precautions, interactions
St John's wort is generally well tolerated, with an adverse effect profile similar to placebo. Potential side effects include stomach upset, hives or other skin rash, fatigue, restlessness, headache, dry mouth, and feelings of dizziness or mental confusion. St. John's wort interacts with a range of medications. St. John's wort may interact with antidepressant medications that are used to treat depression or other mood disorders. St. John's wort should not be taken by those on digoxin because the herb may decrease levels of the medication and reduce its effectiveness. St John's wort decreases the levels of certain medications in the body thereby decreasing their efficacy. Such medications may include other antidepressants (SSRIs and TCAs), contraceptives, cholesterol-lowering medications, etc. Patients on any medications (including over-the-counter) are advised to consult their pharmacist or physician prior to taking any product containing St John's Wort. St. John's Wort may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitor drugs, which are used for depression. St. John's Wort may reduce the effects of the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin. St. John's wort is not recommended for children, or for women who are pregnant or lactating.
source:vitamin and health supplement guide
General Safety Advisory
~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.
~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider
-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.
~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.
~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.
~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider

Health Tips: Allergies

Practical Measures to Prevent and Treat Allergy
by Knut Holt
By allergy the immune system react against a substance that it is not supposed to react against, and the reaction is often exaggerated. Objects containing substances that commonly cause allergy are domestic dust, animal hair, household chemicals, chlorine, microorganisms, pollen, nuts, citrus fruits and seafood. Also bacteria and parasites can cause inappropriately strong immune reactions.

THE MECHANISMS OF ALLERGY
The total set of reactions occurring by allergy is very complicated. Many of these are the same as by normal immune reaction, even though they occur when they should not take place, Here are listed some of these reactions:
By exposure to a new substance, cells in the immune system learn to recognize that substance (allergen), and it learns to produce anti-bodies towards the substance, and a certain amount of antibodies is produced. The type of anti-bodies called IgE is the most important by allergic reactions.
IgE will glue itself to some cells in the blood called mast-cells, and stick out from the surface of these cells. By following exposures to antigens, these will attach themselves to the IgE-ends sticking out from the mast-cells. This will trigger the mast-cells to produce histamine and other signal substances. These signal substances will then spread through the surrounding tissues.
The signal substances will then trigger the walls of small blood vessels to leak fluid into the tissues and accumulate in the tissues. This will cause tissue swelling. They also will cause blood vessels to widen and thus increase the blood stream in the tissues. The consequence of this will be swelling and redness in the affected body parts. The signal substances will also make glands in the tissue produce more mucus, making symptoms like running nose and tight throat.
The new exposures to the antigens will also provoke even more anti-body production. The antibodies will also glue allergens together to bigger complexes. These complexes can clog small blood vessels and in other ways disturb the function of the affected organ.
The allergen-antibody-complexes are then recognized by the cells and other mechanisms that the body uses to collect and eliminate garbage. Eater-cells gather and engulf the complexes.
The immune system also will make enzymes that attack the antigens to break them down. Also this production is stimulated when antigens attach themselves to anti-bodies at cell surfaces. But these enzymes are not entirely specific, and can also to some extend break down components of the body’s own tissue, causing harm and disease symptoms.

WHAT CAUSES THE IMMUNE SYSTEM TO REACT WITH ALLERGY TO A SUBSTANCE
In the beginning of the life of a person, the immune system has the potency to react against most substances in the body itself and the surroundings. However, there are mechanisms that learn the immune system to recognize normal substances found in the daily life in the early infanthood, and suppress the reactions against these. If this learning mechanism is disturbed, allergy can develop.
Allergy can also develop if a small child is never exposed to substances that later will be a normal ingredient of his daily life. In this case the immune system will not get the chance to suppress the reaction against this substance. Letting a small child grow up in an exaggerated clean and sterile environment can therefore cause allergies.
On the other hand, certain elements not being a part of a normal environment can cause allergies by repeated and massive exposure. Examples of such substances are chlorine.

TYPES OF ALLERGIES
Allergy varies according to the compound that causes the immunological reaction. An allergic condition also often implies reaction against a combination of several substances. Common substances causing allergy are: Pollen, domestic dust, mites in domestic dust, moulds and mould spores, chlorine, chemicals in soaps and cosmetics, animal hair, seafood, strawberry, fish, parasites, medicines like anaesthetics and antibiotics
An allergic condition may periodically get better or worse according to the concentration of the allergen in the environment. A typical example is pollen allergy with peaks in the pollination season of grass or treas.
An allergic person will often get symptoms from several tissues in the body, but the symptoms are often most prominent at one body part and give very specific symptoms at that site. Examples of specific conditions often caused by allergy are eczema in the skin and asthma in the lungs and lower airpipe.

THE SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGY
Any organ can exhibit allergic reactions, but often the symptoms are confined mainly to one organ or organ system.
By allergic reactions in the respiratory system there will be symptoms like: Itching and soreness in the throat and nose cavities, swelling of the airway tissues, increased amount of secrets in the airway cavities and coughing. There may also be asthmatic symptoms or fully developed asthma. The main symptom of asthma is cramping that constricts the airways all the way down into the lungs (constriction of the trachea and tracholes).
By allergic reactions in the skin, there will be symptoms like: Redness, swelling, red spots, itching and soars.

HOW TO PREVENT ALLERGY
To prevent allergies in an individual the best way, one must begin in early childhood.
A child must be allowed to get in contact with natural elements like earth, dirt, animals, plants, physical contact with other humans, and the like. This exposure to natural elements must occur before an allergy has developed. In this way the immune system will learn to recognize common and harmless elements, and not overreact against this later in life.
Research projects have found out that children having much and early contact with pet animals like cats and dogs have a less chance of getting allergic problems later than children not having contact with pets. This is contrary to what many people believe.
On the other hands, every person should be protected from early childhood from certain elements normally not found in a natural environment, for example chlorine, soaps and cosmetics with artificial substances, and food containing unnatural additives.

METHODS TO TREAT ALLERGY
The first approach in the treatment of manifest allergy is avoiding exposure to substances causing the allergic reactions. Even though exposure to natural substances can prevent allergy, exposure to an allergen should be avoided when an allergy already has developed. Ways of doing this is:
- Avoiding food one reacts against
- Avoiding contact with animals one have an allergic reaction towards
- Keeping rooms, clothes beds and furniture well cleaned
- Avoiding use of cleaners, soaps and cosmetics with unnatural additives
- Avoiding foods, drinks and snacks with unnatural additives
- Avoiding daily exposure to chlorine and other chemicals
- In cooperation with your doctor change medicines you use that may cause allergy with others
- Avoiding growth of moulds in the environment. This is done by well cleaning and keeping the environment dry.
Children are often exposed to allergens at school, and adults are often exposed at work. Parents with allergic children must inspect the school environment and require from the school administration and teachers that practically possible environmental measures are provided to keep the school free from allergens. An employee should require the same from his employer.
If you do not know exactly everything you react against, you can try to stop exposure to one factor after another, until you feel that the allergy alleviates, and then keep this factor out of your daily life for the future.
Sometimes avoiding allergens is difficult to accomplish, or make the lifestyle to restricted to be acceptable. Then one must apply medical treatment that alleviates the allergy.
A common way of treating allergy is applying medication that block the effect of the substance histamine, and thereby alleviate or prevent the symptoms occurring when the antigen get into the body.
Another way is desensitisation treatment. By this treatment one let the body get a controlled and gradually increasing exposure to the allergens over a time period, and when this period is over, one let the body get recurrent exposure to a controlled dose at regular time intervals. By this treatment the response from the immune system from the allergens gradually decrease, partly because the immune system thereby learns to recognize the allergens as harmless, and partly because the antibodies against the allergens are used up.
There are also natural products on the marked that contain ingredients that help the immune system to react more appropriately. Important effects of these products are reduced histamine secretion and increased histamine metabolism. Examples of ingredients in such medicines are: Methylsulfonyl methane, vitamin C, vitamin E, Echinacea purpurea, Quercetin, grape Seed, Stinging nettle, Coleus Forskolin.
Knut Holt is an internet consultant and marketer focusing on health items. TO FIND natural medicines against allergy, asthma, acne, eczema, rosacea, scars, wrinkles, over-weight, hypertension, heart disease, hypothyroidism, hemorrhoids, depression and other common health problems, PLEASE VISIT: abicana.com