Medicinal Herbs

Traditional Whole Herbs in Easy To Take Capsules

General Guide To Nature's Herbal Remedies

CAYENNE (Capsicum Annum) Specific part used: seeds. This pepper plant contains capsaicin, which works as a pain reliever. Taken internally in capsules, cayenne an relieve migraine and other headaches. Adding it to as a skin cream or salve helps relieve chronic pain (eg. arthritis, backache.) Can be used as a gargle to treat sore throat and hoarseness. Reduces nausea

CELERY SEED Traditional medicine has used Celery Seed for helping to relieve pain, inflammation and to help lower blood pressure.

CHAMOMILE (Anthemis Nobilis) Specific part used: flowers of plant. Known to be an effective remedy for menstrual discomfort and associated symptoms. Acts as a gentle sedative, helpful in treating insomnia.

Dried Chamomile flower is an age-old medicinal drug known in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Chamomile's popularity grew throughout the Middle Ages, when people turned to it as a remedy for numerous medical complaints including asthma, colic, fevers, inflammations, nausea, nervous complaints, children's ailments, skin diseases and cancer. As a popular remedy, it may be thought of as the European counterpart of Ginseng.

Recent and on-going research has identified Chamomile's specific anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-allergenic and sedative properties, validating its long-held reputation. This attention appears to have increased the popularity of the herb and nowadays Chamomile is included as a drug in the pharmacopoeia of 26 countries.

Chamomile has been used for centuries in teas as a mild, relaxing sleep aid, treatment for fevers, colds, stomach ailments, and as an anti-inflammatory, to name only a few therapeutic uses. Extensive scientific research over the past 20 years has confirmed many of the traditional uses for the plant and established pharmacological mechanisms for the plant's therapeutic activity, including antipeptic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antifungal, as well as antiallergenic activity.

In addition to medicinal use, Chamomile enjoys wide usage, especially in Europe and the U.S., as a refreshing beverage tea and as an ingredient in numerous cosmetic and external preparations. It is estimated that over one million cups of Chamomile tea are ingested worldwide each day, making it probably the most widely consumed herb tea.

Although best known as a muscle relaxant and antispasmodic, Chamomile is also believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory capabilities. The plant's healing properties come from its daisylike flowers, which contain volatile oils (including bisabolol, bisabolol oxides A and B, and matricin) as well as flavonoids (particularly a compound called apinegin) and other therapeutic substances. Chamomile may be used internally or externally.

The Therapeutic Usage of Chamomile Includes...

• as a tea, be used for minor inflammatory, rheumatic problems and rashes.
• as a topical salve, may be used for hemorrhoids and wounds.
• as a vapor to be inhaled, may be used to alleviate cold symptoms or asthma.
• helps relieve restlessness, teething problems, and colic in children.
• helps relieve allergies, much as an antihistamine would.
• helps aid in digestion when enjoyed as a tea after meals.
• helps relieve morning sickness during pregnancy.
• helps speed healing of minor skin abrasions, wounds or burns.
• helps treat gastritis and ulceritive colitis.
• helps reduce inflammation and facilitate bowel movement without acting directly as a purgative.
• may also be used as a wash or compress for skin problems and inflammations.
• helps promote general relaxation and relieve stress.
• helps control insomnia. Chamomile's mildly sedating and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who suffer from insomnia to fall asleep more easily.
• helps to relieve nausea, heartburn, and intestinal gas. It may also be useful in the treatment of diverticular disorders and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease.
• helps soothe skin rashes (including eczema), minor burns and sunburn. Used as a lotion or added in oil form to a cool bath, chamomile may ease the itching of eczema and other rashes and reduces skin inflammation. It may also speed healing and prevent bacterial infection.
• helps treat eye inflammation and infection. Cooled chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes and it may even help treat conjunctivitis.
• helps heal mouth sores and prevent gum disease. A chamomile mouthwash may help soothe mouth inflammations and keep gums healthy.
• helps reduce menstrual cramps. Chamomile's believed ability to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus helps ease the discomfort of menstrual cramping.

CRANBERRY Specific part used: berries. These berries treat women’s urinary tract and bladder infections. Studies show that concentrated cranberry capsules are more potent and more effective than cranberry juice.

DANDELION ROOT (Taraxacum Officinole) Specific part used: root. Has been used to fight anemia because it contains iron, calcium, and other trace minerals. An ideal natural laxative, it is also helpful in treating poor circulation, bowel inflammation and stomach disorders.

ECHINACEA Specific part used: root. Helps stimulate glandular organs such as the kidneys to function more efficiently. Has been used by herbalists to fight infection, detoxify and stimulate healing. Echinacea is also used to help relieve symptoms of hay fever and other allergies. The root is used in capsule form to strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to stress to help

Echinacea Does Fight Colds According To Latest "The Lancet" Study...

A new study published today in the British journal The Lancet finds that the popular herbal supplement Echinacea cuts the chance of catching a cold by 58% and can reduce the duration of colds by about a day and a half.

This directly contradicts a major study funded by the National Institutes of Health and published last year in the New England Journal of Medicine which found that echinacea doesn't work.

The Lancet study looked at the results of 14 previous clinical trials that investigated echinacea's effects on the common cold. Those trials involved a total of over 1,600 patients.

The analysis was done at the University of Connecticut, and colleagues.

Meta-analyses combine the findings of large numbers of studies to filter out trends that might not be visible individually. The research team looked at all the randomized, placebo-controlled, peer-reviewed studies available and by combining their data, found that echinacea reduced the incidence of contracting the common cold and its duration.

Americans catch a billion colds each year and spend about $1.5 billion on doctor's visits and another $2 billion on non-prescription cough and cold treatments. The Nutrition Business Journal estimates U.S. echinacea sales were $129 million in 2006.

Echinacea is derived from the Purple Cone Flower, which is native to Eastern North America.and it is believed to have immuno-stimulative properties but more research is needed to determine what those are.

EYEBRIGHT (Euphrasia Officinalis) Specific part used: herb. Used to treat jaundice, loss of memory and vertigo. Topically, has been used to relieve conjunctivitis (pink eye.)

Eyebright has been used to treat respiratory conditions including bronchitis, allergies, colds, and sinusitis. Eyebright contains astringent compounds known as tannins that may help to tighten the top layers of mucous membranes, thereby reducing mucus secretion, which in turn relieves irritation and improves tissue firmness.

Eyebright has also been used as an eye wash for treating a number of different eye conditions. The chemical substance, tannins, that is produced by eyebright has been used to reduce eye inflammation as well as to create a protective covering over the surface of the eye.

Find Medicinal Herbs at a Featured Dietary Supplements Merchant (below)

Fo-Ti Root

Fo-Ti is a plant native to China that is also found in Japan and Taiwan. The medicinal part of the plant is the root. According to Chinese herbal medicine, Fo-Ti is used to invigorate the kidneys and liver, and serve as a tonic to increase overall vitality. In China, Fo-Ti has a reputation for enhancing longevity and energy.

The most common uses of Fo-Ti root (polygonum multiform) in traditional Chinese medicine include treatment of osteoporosis and use as both a diuretic and a laxative. The dried herbal root is also believed to help stimulate the production of estrogen; menopausal women in China drink Fo-Ti root tea or take powdered Fo-Ti root in capsules in order to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with menopausal changes.

This herb contains an alkaloid that has rejuvenating effects. It stimulates a portion of the adrenal gland and helps to detoxify the body. It has been used for a long list of ailments including arteriosclerosis, constipation, fatigue, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, eczema, inflammation and toxicity. It is also recommend to help boost the immune system.

The whole root has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, according to animal and human research, as well as to decrease hardening of the arteries, or arteriosclerosis. Other Fo-Ti research has investigated this herb's role in strong immune function, red blood cell formation and antibacterial action. There is also some evidence that suggests that Fo-Ti may help improve memory and cognitive function.

Fo-Ti contains protein-sugar complexes known as lectins. Because they attach to specific carbohydrates on cellular level in the body, lectins act like antibodies, but they do not cause allergy symptoms. The lectins in Fo-Ti may affect fat levels in the blood, helping to prevent or delay heart disease by blocking the formation of plaques in blood vessels.

Supported by a small number of laboratory studies and numerous human case reports from China, where Fo-ti has been used for centuries as an anti-aging tonic.

GINGER (Zingiber Officinale) Specific part used: root. The root, in capsule form, is used to treat nausea and symptoms of motion sickness (vertigo, nausea, vomiting), mild stomach aches, and indigestion. It also promotes healthy circulation. Eases the effect of a cold and soothes sore throat.

Ginger Root – Nature’s Wonderful Herbal Remedy

Ginger is a favorite herb that is used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Next time you feel nauseous, sluggish or have an upset stomach with painful cramps, try taking ginger root capsules.

How Does Ginger Root Work? Ginger has been used in ancient civilizations including India, China, Greece and Rome, both as a food spice and versatile medicinal aid. Capsules, hot teas, and crystallized ginger are used to deliver a ginger- packed dose that can alleviate nausea, dizziness, inflammation, muscle aches; allergy symptoms and even flatulence.

Ginger is a natural, effective treatment for easing digestive upsets. Once in the digestive tract, it has the ability to increase digestive fluid and neutralize acids, which can contribute to upset stomach. Ginger is a natural alternative to anti-nausea drugs and may provide an alternative solution for people seeking to eliminate side effects, such as exhaustion, which usually accompanies conventional anti-nausea medications. Ginger can also be used to relieve excessive flatulence and its associated symptoms.

Reducing nausea and dizziness is especially helpful for treating seasickness, morning sickness, postoperative nausea, nausea from chemotherapy treatments, and general digestive complaints. Two separate studies showed a positive correlation between ginger and decreased nausea. One study was conducted using sailors, split into two groups. The first group was instructed to take 1 gram of powdered ginger per day, and the 2nd group took a placebo. The group taking the ginger had a significantly decreased occurrence of nausea and cold sweats, which are classic symptoms of seasickness. A second study followed women who were undergoing surgery. They were also instructed to take 1 gram of ginger, resulting in a decrease in post-surgery nausea and vomiting.

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving abilities, which is important to those suffering from arthritis, which is often a result of severe inflammation of the joints. Allergy sufferers and those dealing with a cold may also find relief in using ginger, as it calms the inflammation associated with these conditions, thus reducing the duration of the symptoms. Muscle aches and chronic pain can also be diminished with the use of ginger.

General recommendations given for digestive upsets, arthritis and chronic pain or muscle aches is to take at least 200 mg. in capsule form, 1 - 2 grams of fresh powdered ginger, or a fresh ½ inch slice of raw ginger root.

Ginger can also be used in tea form with the same therapeutic results. You can make your own tea by opening 1 or 2 Ginger capsules, mix the finely-milled powder into hot water. If you’re able to obtain Ginger root at your local grocery store, steep freshly- grated raw Ginger root in hot water. Ginger ale is also available at most grocery stores, but make sure you buy a natural ginger ale vs. commercialized ginger sodas, which don’t contain a significant amount of the herb. Natural ginger ales provide about 1 gram of ginger per 8 oz. serving.

GINKGO BILOBA Specific part used: leaf extract. Used extensively in Europe to treat a variety of ailments . . . Helps increase blood circulation to the brain and has positive effect on mental performance. The leaves, taken in capsule or extract form, help treat short-term memory loss, ringing in the ears, poor circulation, and arteriosclerosis. Current studies suggest Ginkgo

GINSENG (Ponax Quinque Folius) Specific part used: root. The root of ginseng increases energy, reduces stress, and strengthens immunity. In China, it is a male tonic and an anti-aging herb for the elderly. A demulcent, it is helpful for coughs, colds and chest congestion. Reduces symptoms of feverish and inflammatory illness and can help relieve nausea.

GOLDEN SEAL (Hydrastis Canadenis) Specific part used: root. Helps decrease nausea. Excellent remedy for colds and digestive troubles. The root in capsule form reduces inflammation of ulcers, cleanses the blood and liver. Mix with warm water as an external eye wash, goldenseal is also used for treating conjunctivitis and other eye inflammations.

GOTU-KOLA (Cantella Asiatica) Native to India, where it is taken to slow aging, the leaves improve mental ability, relieve stress. This plant also helps to speed the healing of wounds, eczema, and other skin conditions. Accelerates healing of bruises and abscesses. Acts as a sedative and diuretic. Also claimed to help energize brain cells and relieve tension.

Gotu Kola Is A Powerful Rejuvenative Herb, Providing A Wide Range Of Health Benefits

Growing in fertile areas of the Himalayas, Gotu Kola is regarded as one of the most important rejuvenative herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine. It is said to fortify the immune system, and to strengthen the adrenal glands. It has been used as a nutritive, purifying tonic for helping maintain healthy skin.

Gotu Kola is often confused with Kola nut. Due to this confusion, some people assume the rejuvenating properties of Gotu Kola are due to the stimulating effects of caffeine contained in Kola Nut. In fact, Gotu Kola is not related to Kola Nut and contains no caffeine.

Gotu Kola is a rejuvenative nervine recommended for nervous disorders and as a brain tonic to aid mental functioning and memory. It has also been used to promote restful sleep. It strengthens the adrenal glands while cleansing the blood to treat skin impurities. It is said to help combat stress, energize mental powers, increase libido and improve reflexes. Ayurvedic herbal medicine practitioners believe it energizes the central nervous system and rebuilds the body's energy reserves.

Gotu Kola is also recommended to help relieve high blood pressure and help the body defend against various toxins. Gotu Kola acts as a mild diuretic that can help shrink swollen membranes and aid in the elimination of excess fluids.

Gotu Kola has a positive effect on the circulatory system. It improves the flow of blood while strengthening the veins and capillaries. It has been used successfully to treat phlebitis, leg cramps, and abnormal tingling of the extremities. It soothes and minimizes varicose veins and can be used topically to help minimize scarring when applied during the inflammatory period of a wound.

It was found effective when applied on patients with third degree burns, when the treatment commenced immediately after the accident. Daily local application to the affected area along with intramuscular injections, limited the shrinking of the skin as it healed. It is known to prevent infection and inhibit scar formation. It is also useful in repairing skin and connective tissues. The primary active constituent is triterpenoid compounds. Saponins (also called triterpenoids) known as asiaticoside, madecassoside, and madasiatic acid are the primary active constituents. These saponins beneficially affect collagen (the material that makes up connective tissue), inhibiting its production in hyperactive scar tissue.

Due mostly to the actions of the saponins that it contains, Gotu Kola may prevent, delay and treat a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency. This occurs when valves in the veins that carry blood back to the heart are weak or damaged and blood collects in the veins of the legs. This collection of blood can lead to varicose veins, spider veins, or sores on the legs. More serious results can include blood clots in the legs. The saponins Asiaticoside and madecassoside may help keep veins and other blood vessels from weakening. Because it helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels, Gotu Kola may also be effective for slowing retinopathy, the gradual break down of the retina in the eyes. It may also help to relieve hemorrhoids. These same effects are thought to strengthen the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, making Gotu Kola potentially useful for treating ulcers.

According to pharmacological studies, one outcome of Gotu Kola's complex actions is a balanced effect on cells and tissues participating in the process of healing, particularly connective tissues. One of its constituents, asiaticoside, works to stimulate skin repair and strengthen skin, hair, nails and connective tissue (Kartnig, 1988).

GREEN TEA

Green Tea May Ease Mental Distress According To a New Study...

Drinking five cups of green tea per day may reduce the incidence of psychological distress by 20 per cent, says a new study from Japan.

In a study with 42,093 Japanese individuals 2,774 people, or 6.6 per cent of the study population, suffered from psychological stress, and green tea consumption was said to improve psychological well-being.

More than 450 million people suffer from stress worldwide, with a large percentage of people stating that stress is the most important risk factor to health. The related costs of stress estimated at $200 billion in the US (International Labor Office).

Researchers from Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine report their findings in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Green tea and its extracts already have a positive reputation, with studies reporting they may offer protective effects against Alzheimer's and certain cancers, improve cardiovascular and oral health, and play a positive role in weight management.

Despite reports already stating that green tea or its constituents might reduce psychological stress, no large-scale study has evaluated the relationship between green tea consumption and psychological distress, said the researchers.

After adjusting their results for potential confounding factors, including age, sex, history of disease, BMI, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, diet, and other factors, a significant inverse association between green tea consumption and psychological distress was observed for people who drank at least five cups of green tea per day, compared to those who drank less than one cup per day.

The four primary polyphenols found in fresh tea leaves are epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), and epicatechin (EC).

A earlier Japanese study reported that green tea extracts may offset the signs of physical and mental fatigue associated with modern stressful lives. Five days of supplementation with EGCG was found to reduce levels of oxidised species related to fatigue in an animal model, according to findings in previously published studies.

Green tea is said to contain over four times the concentration of antioxidant catechins than black tea (green tea leaves that have been oxidized by fermentation), about 70 mg catechins per 100 mL compared to 15 mg per 100 mL for black tea.

Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

HAWTHORN (Crataegus Oxyacantha) Specific part used: berries. Capsules of the berry are widely used to treat cardiovascular conditions, lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, promote blood circulation, and slow and strengthen the heartbeat. Provides nutritive support to the heart and circulatory system. Stimulates increased enzyme metabolism in the heart muscle. Improves oxygen utilization.

Herbal Hawthorn Protects the Heart

What Is Hawthorn? Hawthorn is a tall-growing shrub that bears nutrient- rich red berries. The ancient Greeks and Native Americans discovered its heart health benefits. Popular use wasn’t established until the 19th century, after the death of a certain secretive heart physician. This Irish doctor treated heart disease for years with a closely guarded secret tincture. It wasn’t until after his death in 1890, that the active component of his secret formula was revealed - Hawthorn berries.

How Does Hawthorn Protect Your Heart? Hawthorn’s natural cardio-protective benefits work in three ways:

1. Dilates blood vessels by blocking the ACE enzyme, which constricts blood vessels. This beneficial blocking action also improves blood flow through arteries and may also help lower blood pressure.

2. Blocks specific enzymes that can deteriorate heart muscle, thus helping to correct irregular heartbeat.

3. Helps prevents plaque buildup in the coronary arteries by working as an antioxidant.

By supporting and protecting the health of the heart in these three ways, Hawthorn can be especially useful to those suffering from mild hypertension, angina, cardiac arrhythmia, and congestive heart failure.

The benefits of using herbs to improve health are many. However, use of any type of herbal should be carefully considered and evaluated. Let your doctor know if you are considering taking herbal supplements. In regard to possible drug- nutrient interactions, make certain your doctor approves the use of herbs along with your current prescription medications and specific medical condition.

Certain heart medications (such as digitalis) work to increase the pumping power of the heart, but may also increase the incidence of irregular heart beat. Hawthorn increases the heart’s pumping power and helps prevent irregular heartbeat.

How Else Is Hawthorn Beneficial For Maintaining Good Health? Besides acting as a valuable heart remedy, Hawthorn is also often used to treat insomnia because of it's ability to calm the nerves, without negative side effects common to many sleep medications.

Hawthorn has also been found to preserve collagen, a tye of connective tissues, which is especially beneficial to those suffering from arthritis.

Are There Any Safety Concerns Regarding Hawthorn? Use of the herb Hawthorn is generally regarded as safe.

However, it may produce mild side effects in those people with already low blood pressure, including nausea, sweating, fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. Allergic reaction to Hawthorn may also occur in the form of a skin rash, but is quite uncommon. Hawthorn appears to be safe to use alongside prescription heart medications. Consult with your doctor first before adding herbal supplements to your current prescription medication regimen.

How Can I Supplement Hawthorn? The recommended dosage of Hawthorn is 300-450 milligrams daily. For preventative measures, taking a Hawthorn supplement every day may put you at a lower risk for heart disease.

Like many other supplements, the effects of Hawthorn may take up to three months to show. Typically, herbs must build up first in the body before they can start to perform.

JUNIPER (Juniperus Communis) Specific part used: berries. Excellent for kidney and bladder difficulties. Also effective in relieving flatulence and gastric afflictions.

Juniper Berry is often used as a potent diuretic, and can act to cleanse the kidneys and eliminate toxin buildup in the urinary tract. It can also help to relieve edema, or swelling of the extremeties, by releasing excess fluid from the body.

Juniper also makes an effective natural remedy for gastrointestinal ailments, including flatulance, stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Juniper's ability to soothe common stomach problems makes it a must-have in the medicine cabinet of anyone with chronic digestive problems.

Licorice

Licorice Compound Offers Valuable New Cancer Prevention Strategy...

A chemical component of Licorice may offer a new approach to preventing colorectal cancer without the adverse side effects of other preventive therapies, according to a new report by researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Recently published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, the study shows that inhibiting a specific enzyme (identified as 11βHSD2) by treatment with a natural compound found in Licorice known as Glycyrrihizic Acid helps prevent colorectal cancer progression in laboratory mice predisposed to the disease.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Although prevention is considered the best approach for reducing colorectal cancer deaths, few medical strategies exist to prevent the disease.

One promising approach for chemoprevention is targeting the enzyme which promotes colorectal cancer progression via the enzyme's inflammatory action of the prostaglandins.

Inhibiting this enzyme with non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or with selective COX-2 inhibitors like Vioxx or Celebrex reduces the number and size of colon polyps in patients with an inherited predisposition to colon cancer. However, both types of drugs cause serious adverse side effects that limit their use for chemoprevention.

The investigators previously found that inhibiting the specific enzyme in the kidney suppresses its action in the organ. The colon is one of the only other organs (besides the kidney) with high level of this specific enzyme, suggesting that it might play a role in colorectal cancer progression.

Several studies have shown the importance of COX-2 inhibitors and colonic carcinogenesis, the researchers postulated that maybe one of the key mechanisms by which the normal colon might prevent excessive expression of the enzyme.

They then inhibited the enzyme with Glycyrrhizic Acid, the main sweet-tasting component of Licorice, and by actually silencing the gene itself.

Both treatments inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2 (an inflammatory molecule produced by the COX-2 enzyme) and prevented the development of polyps (adenomas) and tumor growth and metastasis.

Blocking the enzyme produces effects specific to those tissues unlike the anti-inflammatory drugs including NSAIDs, selective COX-2 inhibitors, and steroid treatments that can prevent cancer progression but also cause serious side effects like gastrointestinal irritation, cardiovascular problems and weakened immune function.

Licorice has been used as a nutraceutical for thousands of years for ailments ranging from coughs to constipation. But even Licorice is not without side effects; Long-term consumption can lead to low blood levels of Potassium and also increases in blood pressure.

However, these are considered relatively minor side effects compared to the cardiovascular side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. It would be something to be aware of, and could easily be treated with a diuretic.

The researchers are continuing to investigate the mechanism of the inhibition of the specific enzyme (identified as 11βHSD2) and also plan to investigate the enzyme's role in lung cancer and other tumors.

And although this naturally-derived compound from Licorice is an appealing in itself, the researchers are also working with the Vanderbilt Institute for Chemical Biology to develop more specific and potent inhibitors of the 11βHSD2 enzyme that is more specific and has better delivery to the target tissues.

The research was supported by grants from the American Cancer Society, the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Journal reference: Inhibition of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II selectively blocks the tumor COX-2 pathway and suppresses colon carcinogenesis in mice and humans. Journal of Clinical Investigation, March 24, 2009

---

Licorice Root Extract Provides New Treatment Option For Painful Canker Sores

Canker Sores are common, affecting one in five Americans. This oral condition appears as shallow ulcers of different sizes, causing severe mouth pain. Commonly referred to as "canker sores" the medical term is Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers (RAU).

Among the causes of canker sores are food allergies and hormonal changes, however, a genetic predisposition might be the most common cause. When both parents have a history of canker sores, the likelihood of their children developing them can be as high as 90 percent.

Now, researchers are recommending they be treated with Licorice Root herbal extract, according to a study recently published in General Dentistry.

The researchers examined the effects of an adhesive patch (with licorice root extract) for treatment of RAU versus no treatment. After seven days of treatment, ulcer size in the group who received the adhesive patch with Licorice extract was significantly lower, while ulcer size in the no-treatment group had increased 13 percent.

The most serious side effect of canker sores is sharp pain in the mouth, which can interfere with an individual's quality of life and affect their eating, drinking or speech. The new research revealed that in addition to speeding healing of the canker sores, the Licorice Root extract also helped to reduce pain significantly, after just three days of treatment.

Interestingly, Licorice Root extract has also been used as a prescribed treatment for gastric ulcers since the 1970s.

Those who experience canker sores on a regular basis can visit their dentist for treatment techniques. Dentists can give patients the proper medication and treatment options to seal the lesions, which will prevent further infection.

Also, increasing the intake of Vitamin C, Zinc and Licorice Root herbal supplements can help treat canker sores because they help to regenerate tissue cells.

Common Causes of Canker Sores: Local trauma and stress, Diet and food allergies, Hormonal changes, Use of certain medications

Common Treatments of Canker Sores: Antimicrobial mouthwashes, Local painkillers, Over-the-counter remedies (oral adhesive patches, liquids and gels)

MILK THISTLE The seeds help remove toxins and protect the liver. Used in capsule form to treat hepatitis and cirrhosis. It is also used as a liver cleanser for smokers, alcoholics, drug users (eg. prescription, over-the-counter), and those who come in contact with toxic chemicals and pollutants.

PEPPERMINT LEAF Peppermint is commonly used to sooth gastrointestinal tract by relaxing the muscles in the intestinal wall. It increases the saliva, which increases swallowing making it possible to improve appetite, relieve cramps, and reduce pain associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, or motion sickness

SARSAPARILLA (Smilax Officinalis) Specific part used: root. Used extensively in China for a variety of conditions. Has been recommended to relieve symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis. Also known to be useful as a diuretic and to enhance digestive functioning.

Herbal Root Naturally Rich In Flavonoids & Phytosterols

Sarsaparilla is the semi tropical plant, native to South and Central America, as well as parts of China and India. For hundreds of years, people of the areas have been using beverages made with sarsaparilla as a general health tonic. Among the claims made for sarsaparilla are that it helps boost energy levels, improves the libido, is beneficial for treatment of psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Modern medicine and science confirm many of the traditional uses of sarsaparilla root. The saponins found in the root provide phytosterols, nutritive plant steroids. Some constituents of sarsaparilla have antiviral action, and are useful in helping pain and inflammation.

Natural Constituents of Sarsaparilla - palmitic acid(I), beta-sitosterol(II), delta 7-5 alpha-cholesten-3-beta-ol(III), naringenin (IV), succinic acid (V), apigenin (VI), resveratrol (VII), daucosterol (VIII) and juncusyl ester B (IX). arsasapogenin, stigmasterol, and pollinastanol; a variety of flavonoids; and the saponins sarsasaponin, sarsaparilloside.

ST. JOHN’S WORT Specific part used: flowering tops of plant. The flowering tops of this plant in extract or capsule form are used as a sedative to relieve mild anxiety and depression.

Medicinal Plant- St. John's Wort May Reduce Neuronal Degeneration Caused By Parkinson's Disease

A research team from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) has carried out a study entitled, "Hypericum Perforatum. Possible option against Parkinson's disease" which suggests that this plant (also known as St John's Wort) with antidepressant properties has antioxidant active ingredients that could help reduce the neuronal degeneration caused by the disease.

In the last few years, the idea that the excessive numbers of free radicals has an important role in the complex etiology of Parkinson's disease has spread. Post-mortem investigations have revealed evidence of lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative damage to the DNA of brain proteins in patients suffering from the disease. The increase of oxidative stress is attributed, among other factors, to a less active mitochondrial complex.

Certain environmental contaminants such as pesticides can cause Parkinson's. Although the mechanism that causes these effects is not yet fully understood, the hypothesis is that the increase in the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) caused by the altered function of the mitochondrial complex could be the cause of the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons through the apoptotic process.

A proposition that is widely accepted is that ingesting high quantities of antioxidants can reduce the risk of suffering from Parkinson's disease or delay its progression. Natural herbal products are regarded for their structural diversity and wide range of medicinal pharmacological effects. Approximately one third of the best selling drugs in the world are, or derived from these natural plant substances. With this is mind, a plant well known for its antidepressant effects, St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), was selected for studies using a model of Parkinson's disease.

St John's Wort presents proven antioxidant effects, which make it beneficial for all those pathologies that cause an increase of free radicals. With the objective of determining which component of St John's Wort is responsible for its beneficial role against neuro-degenerative diseases, it was decided to evaluate the effects of a standard Hypericum Perforatum extract with a 0.3% concentration of Hypericin, versus those of an extract with 11% Hyperforin but deficient in other active compounds of the plant.

Body weight was monitored to determine whether or not the use of the different drugs had any significant impact on it. The pre-treatment of animals with both types of extract reduced the negative effects of Rotenone (pesticide), as well as the loss of body weight during the chronic treatment. The results obtained show that the pre-treatment of animals with both extracts reduced the latency period increased by the Rotenone (pesticide).

These behavioural alterations suggest that neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway are sensitive to the toxic effects of the pesticide. In fact, the administration of the toxin for a period of 30 days caused extensive lesions to that region, in many cases creating areas with missing neurons. The evaluation of neuron degeneration caused in the substantia nigra shows a reduction of dopaminergic neuron death with St John's wort.

The evaluation of antioxidant enzymes levels, superoxide dismutases (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, conclude that administration both St John's wort extracts can prevent the increase of the three enzymes, reducing them significantly. St John's wort reduces the exacerbated production of reactive oxygen species produced in the presence of Rotenone (pesticide), as well as the damage that the free radicals cause dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, avoiding the action of apoptosis.

The neuron protecting effects are greater with the standard St. John's Wort (Hypericum Perforatum) extract with the 0.3% concentration of Hypericin. This implies that the powerful antioxidant effects of the plant is caused by a synergic action of various of its active compounds.

The research team formed by scientists from the Departamento de Farmacología; the Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular of the Facultad de Farmacia at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) has been awarded the CINFA 2008 prize (Real Academia Nacional de Farmacia) for their investigation.

Shipping $100 Orders Ship Free Additional Wholesale Discounts
PayPal now accepts payments without the need to register. Sign up for additional benefits!

To make a purchase, just press the ADD TO CART buttons for the items you want. When finished shopping click the VIEW CART button above to check out. Shipping charges are added during checkout.

You can find our Vitamins and Supplements overstocks, closeouts and special purchases at our e-Bay store Kats Craft Closet.

Search the Web or a Featured Merchant

Suggest a Useful Resource  (Links)

IMPORTANT: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific medical claims for any of our products. It is advised that you consult a doctor/physician if advice for a specific health concern is required. Any effort to diagnose or treat an illness should be done under the guidance of a doctor or healthcare professional.  *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Contact Information

Privacy Policy

Guarantee

Shipping $100 Orders Ship Free

Top of Page