With nearly all individuals having access to the Internet, a diagnosis of cancer may mean research on how to treat cancer, alternative treatment methods and even herbal supplements to help ease the pain, side effects and even reduce the spread of cancer. While individuals believe that herbs are natural and safe, research indicates otherwise. Research conducted by a geriatric oncologist at the Northwestern University Memorial Hospital indicates otherwise. When receiving chemotherapy treatment for cancer, herbal supplements may do more harm than good.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a common form of treatment for many cancers. It is a drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill all of the fast growing cells in your body.  Chemotherapy is used for most forms of cancer because cancer cells grow and rapidly divide more quickly than any of the other cells in your body.  This form of treatment may also be used with other treatments to more effectively treat cancer — such as surgery to remove a tumor or growth. Chemotherapy can help ensure all cancer cells are removed from the body following surgery. Chemotherapy may also be used prior to radiation therapy or surgery in an effort to shrink a tumor. For individuals with advanced cancer, chemotherapy may be used to help alleviate signs and symptoms of cancer — this is known as palliative chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy has many side effects that may occur as the result of treatments. Side effects may range from mild to severe depending on the type of chemotherapy drugs used. Typical side effects of chemotherapy include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Fever
• Pain
• Constipation
• Mouth sores
• Bruising easily

Most of these side effects subside after treatment for cancer is stopped. However, there are a number of side effects that can last much longer or even be permanent. These side effects can include heart problems, lung tissue damage, nerve damage and infertility. Undergoing cancer treatment also leaves you at risk for developing a secondary cancer.

The side effects you experience largely depend on the dosage and type of chemotherapy you will be receiving. Chemotherapy can come in the form of pills, topical cream — often used for certain types of skin cancers, infections, intravenous medications or may be directly poured into the effected body cavity during surgery. Intravenous medication is the most common form of chemotherapy given.

The effectiveness of chemotherapy largely depends on the type of cancer you have, how advanced the cancer is and how well your body responded to chemotherapy treatments. Your doctor will monitor your progress along the way and may opt for other forms of treatments as he/she sees fit — including surgery, radiation therapy or clinical trials.

Supplement Impacts on Cancer Treatment

June McCoy — MD, MPH — is a Northwestern University Memorial Hospital geriatric oncologist, who in August of 2011 gave a report to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. This report warms of how popular supplements could have a negative impact on cancer treatment — in particular chemotherapy treatment.

According to Dr. McCoy, herbal supplements are defined as whole plants or parts of plants that have therapeutic purposes in the field of complementary and alternative medicine. Herbal supplements can interact with chemotherapy drugs decreasing their effectiveness. Dr. McCoy indicates that some herbal supplements may have more of an effect on chemotherapy drugs than others. For instance, long term use of a garlic supplement may increase your risk of bleeding during surgery. Dr. McCoy indicates that using herbs in moderation — while cooking and preparing meals– will not have an effect on your chemotherapy treatment. However, long term use and large quantities of herbal supplements may adversely affect the outcome of your chemotherapy treatments.

Common Supplements Used By Cancer Patients

Garlic. Garlic — or Allium sativum — is a commonly used herb. Alternative and complementary medicine practitioners have advocated the use of garlic for the treatment of various health ailments — including cancer treatment. According to the University of Maryland, clinical trials have indicated that garlic has demonstrated positive outcomes in helping to alleviate a number of cancer symptoms. Others believe that garlic is an effective means of prevention when it comes to stomach and prostate cancers.

Ginger. Ginger is a powerful and multi-functional herb with a long history of providing relief for a number of health ailments. Rhizome and ginger root are used medicinally for a variety of reasons. Research conducted by Rockefeller University indicates that the pungent constituents of ginger (including zingerone, shogaols and vallinoids) can help in preventing cancer.

Rosemary. Rosemary is an evergreen shrub that has been commonly used as a food flavoring. According to Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, rosemary along with its functional ingredients of caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid contain powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals which can cause damage to the body and are believed to cause some cancers. However, more research is needed on rosemary as a cancer preventing agent.

American Ginseng. American ginseng is a perennial herb that grows throughout North America and is believed to have anti-cancer properties. Herbalist and alternative health practitioners believe that ginseng can help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells — especially in the liver. It is important to remember that American ginseng does not cure cancer or kill cancer cells.

Cumin. Cumin is a small, annual herb that is generally grown for its brown seed. Cumin has been part of a natural health diet for ages. According to Rockefeller University, studies suggest that harmful toxins help to promote the growth of cancer cells — especially in the liver. Cumin seeds have been demonstrated as effective in protecting against liver cancer because cumin is ale to help purge the body of cancer-causing toxins.

Fish Oil. Fish oil — or omega-3 fatty acids — may be helpful in the treatment of colon as well as prostate cancers. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid that helps to increase the levels of cytokines in the human body. Cytokines is a type of protein, that directly attacks cancer cells, as indicated by the Harvard School of Public Health. Fish oil is also beneficial for your overall health including fighting off infections, preventing infections, lowering cholesterol levels and the risk for heart disease.

Green Tea. Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate, which is the most abundant polyphenol substance in green tea. The polyphenol substance helps to detoxify toxins and carcinogens throughout the human body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This can help to prevent cancer cell activity throughout the body.

Astragalus. The root of the Astragalus membranaceus — which is a Chinese medicinal herb is used in protecting the immune system of cancer patients — especially lung cancer patients. Cancer is a disease that attacks the body’s immune system. The active ingredients in astragalus are believed to help stimulate the immune system. This can help cancer patients fight off infections while undergoing cancer treatments.

Turmeric. Turmeric — also referred to as Ayurveda — is a spice prescribed as part of traditional Indian medicine. The active component of turmeric is curcimin. Curcimin is believed to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is believed to help induce the death of cancer cells throughout the human body — especially malignant cells found in the pancreas and colon. Turmeric is also an antioxidant, which can help to remove harmful, cancer causing free radicals from the body.

Diindolylmethane. Diidolylmethane is derived from the compound indole 3-carbinal. Indole 3- carbinal is found in a number of cruciferous vegetables — including broccoli and cauliflower. Diidolylmethane — or DIM– is believed to block the growth of malignant cells throughout the body by interfering with the process of cellular division. By interfering with cellular division, it is more difficult for cancer cells to divide. DIM may also be beneficial in preventing to spread of cancer to other distant regions of the body and may also help to block the formation of blood vessels in tumors. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center indicates that DIM may also be beneficial in preventing the formation of breast an prostate cancer.

Other Herbs

Herbal remedies and supplements have a variety of different uses. Herbs each have different properties that may be beneficial in treating different aspects of human health.

Antiseptic herbal remedies include goldenseal, barberry and echinacea. These herbs can help prevent the growth of bacteria in the body, clean bacteria from the body and work to fight infections in the body. This can be beneficial for cancer patents who often have a weakened immune system due to harsh chemotherapy drug treatments.

Antibiotic herbals remedies can include echinacea, garlic, goldenseal and chaparral. Antibiotic remedies can help to destroy the growth of viruses and bacteria in the human body as well as strengthen the immune system. Weakened immune systems and increased bacterial and viral infections are very characteristic of chemotherapy patients.

Discutient herbal remedieis can include red clover tops, garlic, burdock root, sorrel and chaparral. Complementary and alternative medicine practitioners believe that these herbs can help dissolve and remove tumors and other abnormal growths from the body.

Alternative herbs are believed to help purify the blood by cleaning out the liver, kidneys, spleen and bowels. Cleaning the blood is believed to be beneficial for suffers of blood cancers including leukemia. Examples of blood cleansing herbs include yellow dock, ginseng, garlic, chickenweed, cleavers, comfrey, cayenne, goldenseal, gotu kola, licorice root, Oregon grape root, prickley ash, red clover tops, poke root, dandelion, rhubarb, chaparral, burdock root, sassafras, echinacea and barberry.

There is also a group of herbs known as cholagogues — which are believed to help open up the bile ducts and promote the flow of bile in the liver. This can be beneficial for suffers of liver cancer. These herbs include yellow dock, goldenseal, dandelion, barberry and cayenne.

What Should You Do

Dr. McCoy indicates that current research shows that 50 percent of patents undergoing chemotherapy did not tell their oncologist about alternative and complementary therapies they were also undergoing at the same time. Many believed telling their doctor about supplements was not important. Others were too embarrassed or ashamed to admit that they were using herbal or alternative medicines to treat their cancer.

Northwestern University strongly encourages oncology patients to talk to their doctor. Maintain an open line of communication with your doctor. Tell your doctor about all herbal supplements you have been taking prior to undergoing cancer treatment as well as herbs you are considering taking while undergoing chemotherapy treatments. This is for your own health. Bring the bottles or the labels of your supplements with you to your next oncology appointment for your doctor to examine.

The bottom line is that more research needs to be completed on the issue of herbal supplements and chemotherapy treatments. Dr. McCoy strongly urges that patients discontinue use of herbal supplements during chemotherapy treatment until more is known about interactions. Avoiding supplements can help prevent drug interactions.

Considerations

Whether you are a cancer patient, cancer survivor, a healthy individual or an individual with other health ailments, always consult your doctor prior to beginning an herbal supplement regime. Always inform your doctor of any medications you are taking to avoid drug interactions. Your doctor will be able to recommend safe doses and herbs for your particular health.

Warning

Herbal supplements are not a Food and Drug Administration — FDA — approved means of preventing or treating cancer. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of herbal remedies when it comes to the treatment and prevention of cancer.

Resources

E Science News: Popular Herbal Supplements May Adversely Affect Chemotherapy Treatments
Mayo Clinic: Chemotherapy
University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic
Rockefeller University: Food Choices for Reducing Cancer Risk
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine: The Cancer Fighting Benefits of Rosemary
University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea
Harvard School of Public Health: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centers: DIM

Oregano oil can supposedly help to cure many things. A cough, pain within one’s body, various rashes of the skin, treatment of acne, and many more common problems, can be resolved with the consumption of oregano. In order to be most effective the user is required to take oregano oil in large doses. Just as with many natural alternative medicines, users will not experience any side effects with oregano oil. Other than its bitter taste, nothing but benefits come from taking it.

Where Does it Come From?

Oregano originates from an oregano plant also called Origanum Vulgare. Specifically, it comes from the leaves of the herb plant. There are a few different types of oregano plants which include Origanum, Thymus Capitus, and Lippia Graveolens. The difference is where the plant is grown. The Origanum Vulgare is a Wild Mediterranean oregano plant, Spanish oregano plants are called Thymus Capitus, and Mexican oregano plants are called Lippia Graveolens. While you have various types of oregano plants, not all of them can give you the same benefits. The one with the most medical value is the species found in the Wild Mediterranean. This is because of its antibiotic and antifungal properties. This type of oregano plant found in Turkey and Greece has been used for thousands of years for cooking. Now, there are pills you can consume to get your daily does of oregano oil.

How it Works

The antibiotics included in oregano are Pinene, Bisabolene, Thymol, Carvacrol, Cymene, and more. These help to protect the human body against harmful pathogens that come with a virus, bacteria, and other things that bring harm. They help to create a stronger immune system. It also assists with better digestion. Oregano oil also reduces inflammation. If someone suffers from a bee sting, they can apply the oil as a treatment.

Discrepancies in Research

As you do a little research online about the benefits of oregano oil, you will find both supporting evidence as well as content that claims no research has been done to explore its benefits. To clarify, there has been several studies done on oil of oregano. Specifically, over thirty published studies that confirm the helpful properties of the oil. One particular study, completed by the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Georgetown University Medical Center, observed the positive effects of oregano and mice. Eighteen of the mice were injected with staph bacteria. Six of them received oils of oregano for thirty days. Another six of them received just carvacrol which is the antibacterial component in the oregano oil, while another 6 of them received olive oil. The results concluded that the nature oils of oregano can kill off infectious organisms but of course, further research must be conducted.

Where to Purchase Oregano Oil

Oregano can be found in various forms. You may happen to have a supply in your spice cabinet, or you may be growing it in your herb garden. If you want to experience the oils benefits you will want it in its purest form. There are various brands that sell the herb in pill form. Since the most important component of the herb is carvacrol you will want to check that it has high amounts of this. You should choose a product that has about 50% to 85% of carvacrol, but the higher the concentration the better results. You will also want to choose a product that has low levels of thymol. This is because high consumption of this ingredient is not good for internal digestion.

When it comes to manufacturers of the herb, many of the products are exposed to various chemicals and pesticides. Just as with anything else you will want to avoid this. You want to find good quality that was grown on native soil, free of these chemicals. You can pick out the better oregano oil products by looking at the levels of carvacrol.

You will also want to make sure that the product is GMP certified. This stands for Good Manufacturing Practices and lets you know that the company follows certain regulations when producing the product. You will also want to look for products that are all natural, free of solvents, has no additives, and is not processed. This will guarantee that you are a purchasing a product that gives you oils of oregano at its highest levels of purity.

Share with us

If you know of any excellent oregano products, please share with everyone. This plant has so many great benefits and we would love to know your experience with the herb as well.

References

http://www.bio-alternatives.net/oregano-info.htm

http://www.kombuchahealth.com.au/how_does_oil_of_oregano_work.html

http://www.heavenscentoils.net/oregano_study.htm

http://oiloforeganosite.com/how-to-buy-the-best-quality-oregano-oil/

1.  Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera calms skin irritation immediately, and it helps in balancing pH of the skin of the scalp. It helps in regulating the functioning of sebaceous glands and prevents dryness which causes hair loss due to dandruff. Aloe Vera can be applied on hair to promote hair growth and to improve the texture of skin of the scalp.

2.  Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a herb which can be applied on the scalp to improve blood circulation to the scalp. It is effective treatment for people who suffer from hair loss due to dry skin. The herb helps to nourish the scalp skin to provide it nutrition to improve its texture and reduce dryness. Ginkgo biloba possess anti-oxidants which improve the functioning of nervous system and its extract has been used since ages to promote hair growth naturally.

3. Saw Palmetto

The male pattern of baldness is caused by the action of hormone Dehydrotestosterone (DTH). DTH is formed from testosterone, and the saw palmetto is the herb which can inhibit the conversion of testosterone into DTH to prevent hair loss. Saw Palmetto has been tested in laboratory for being effective in fighting benign prostatic disease and reducing the levels of DHT. It has been found Saw Palmetto has anti androgen properties and it can be taken to reduce hair loss in men to prevent baldness.

4.  Stinging Nettle

Stinging Nettle is rich in Vitamin A and C. It provides nutrition to the body to promote hair growth. It is a herb which contains phyto-estrogen which stops or reverses the hair loss caused due to genetic conditions. Phyto-estrogen found in Stinging Nettle blocks the formation of chemicals which aid the conversion of testosterone to DTH and it prevents hair loss in men. Nettle root extract can inhibit the formation of 5-alpha reductase. 5-alpha reductase is the component which converts testosterone into DHT and it causes atrophy of the hair roots. Stinging Nettle is considered to be effective in curing the problem of hair loss in men.

5. Rosemary

You can clean the scalp using water rosemary and sage to stimulate hair growth and to prevent hair loss caused due to dry skin and environmental pollution. To improve the thickness of hair, rosemary should be mixed with sage, nettles and burdock, and a lotion can be prepared by mixing the three herbs to castor oil and water. The lotion can be applied to the scalp to improve hair strength and to prevent hair loss.

1. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is the top scent used in Aromatherapy. The long and pale leaves have a special scent which clears the nasal passage in person suffering with cold. It helps to boost your immune system. It also relieves muscle tension. It‘s generally used in mouthwashes, aftershaves and other household cleansers. However, eucalyptus is not advised to be used for relieving sinusitis or nasal congestion in patients during asthma attacks. Furthermore, if eucalyptus oil is used in large amounts, it may be toxic.

2. Lavender

It is also one of the top scents used in aromatherapy and is very effective for skin. It’s generally used as a skin toner or sometimes for skin lifting to give you a younger look. It is very commonly used in scented perfumes, soaps, air fresheners or in disinfectants. Lavender was used as a cleanser and added in bathwater in ancient times as well. What’s more, it’s a proven disinfectant and is widely used for curing minor injuries, burns, cuts; etc. Lavender is a bush and can be grown in your garden. Apart from these uses, it is also used as antidepressant and is good for digestion too.

3. Sandalwood

Sandalwood has a rich, woody yet sweet smell. It has good balancing effects on your body and mind too. If you are experiencing some negative energy fields around you, then go for a sandalwood scent which will keep those vibes away from you and will create a positive atmosphere around you. It builds up and strengthens your body immune system.

4. Chamomile

It is known for its calming effect. Chamomile is one of the oldest scents used in aromatherapy. This will give you a soothing sleep, keep your worries away and a sound sleep ultimately gives you a sound health. This perfumed oil is good for relaxing mentally as well as physically. It gives you relief from your body aches by relaxing your muscles. It is also effective in relaxing you from menopausal or postmenopausal symptoms, joint pains, headaches and tensions. As it has a calming effect, it is effective to calm down hyperactive kids.

5. Rosemary

Again rosemary is a herb giving many health benefits and a very popular scent in aromatherapy. It boosts your health by building your immunity against infections. Rosemary is a popular ingredient used in bath products, massage oils and in liniments. This is good for asthmatic patients to open the respiratory passage for normal breathing as well. Moreover, rosemary leaves are effective for minor cuts as it acts as a disinfectant.

1. Antioxidant Property

Green Tea is extremely popular for its anti-oxidant properties and these substances are very efficient in hunting free radicals. Free radicals occur randomly in our body and these can move throughout the body, causing the system to change. These are the number one cause for DNA tampering and this would further cause the cell death. These free radicals are aggravated by harmful habits like over exposure to sun, smoking etc. Moreover, the tissue damage can cause skin damage and this would lead to aging. Thus, regular consumption of the green tea can help a lot to fight aging.

2. Helps Fights Cancer

Cancer is a dreadful disease and it can be effectively fought with green tea. It controls the molecules which would play a big role in causing cancer in people. Hence these cancer causing molecules can be shut down by green tea. Thus regular consumption of green tea would effectively help in preventing cancer.

3. Treating Type 1 Diabetes

Green Tea can be extremely beneficial in treating type 1diabetes. It proves to be extremely beneficial in regulating the glucose levels in the body. Hence regularly consuming the green tea is a good way of lessening the effects of type 1 diabetes.

4. Helps Reducing LDL Cholesterol

Green Tea plays a crucial role in reducing the bad cholesterol and also does a good job in improving the good cholesterol level. A smoker often suffers from low HDL level and in these cases; consumption of green tea will help in bringing back the HDL cholesterol level. Thus it has a role to play in regulating cholesterol in our body.

5. Helps Fight Liver Disease

Green tea helps a lot to fight liver disease since it plays a major role in protecting our liver from toxic substances. Therefore, daily consumption of green tea is effective in keeping the liver healthy.
All in all, green tea consumption would provide immense health benefits. It even helps you a lot if you suffer from heart problems or blood clotting. If you are consume caffeine in large amounts, and then green tea consumption can definitely help you in combating the ill-effects of caffeine.

1. Basil

Basil is the most common herb found in abundance with a great medicinal value. Boil a few leaves of this herb while brewing tea and it would increase your immunity against cough and cold. If already suffering, four cups taken regularly would cure you of it. Leaves of Basil grounded and taken with a spoon full of honey also relieves one from cough cold and fever. Chewing two-three Basil leaves daily also keeps cough away.

2. Ginger

Known by the name ‘Adrak’, this herb does not contain itself by making our food just tastier. It also is a good cure for chronic cough. Crush a small piece of ginger and put it under your tongue. The saliva carries its juice down the throat keeping cough at bay. Chew a small piece of Ginger with a few balls of black pepper and wash it down with lukewarm water twice a day. It would render you free of cough, sore throat and congestion within two days.

3. Garlic

Here’s another one. Yes, the same garlic that we put in our vegetables and non-vegetable items. It is not necessary to use garlic in another form. A simple intake used in our cookeries is enough to keep the body warm from within and check cough, cold etc. It can also be consumed whole with regular morsel or can be taken as a pill with water. Furthermore, garlic has tremendous capacity to guard the body against chest congestion.

4. Calendula

Here’s the one for parchy, broken skin. It is beneficial in skin care and soothing parched skin. Calendula is also beneficial in the treatment of woolen rashes.
The whole flower head of calendula is grounded as paste and applied to the skin which acts as a lotion for nourishment and to maintain the balance of oil. The essential oils and salicylic acid present in calendula render the same effect to the skin even if eaten as a dish. Flower of calendula proves a highly effective face mask against the dry winters as well.

5. Cloves

Cloves are a kitchen ingredient and a soldier of culinary warfare, yet with a distinct quality to heal infections like cough and cold. Cloves can be administered orally as well as brewed with tea. Moreover, cloves trigger healing if taken with ginger and basil.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a kitchen spice that is a basic ingredient of almost all Indian dishes. Turmeric has antibacterial properties and a number of medicinal uses. In ayurveda, turmeric is known to treat ulcers, jaundice, toothache and hemorrhage. It is also used to treat digestive ailments and arthritis. Turmeric contains curcumin, a strong anti-inflammatory substance that makes a natural antiseptic. It is also used to cure cuts, bruises and burns.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties. The Aloe Vera plant has thick fleshy leaves and no stem. The gel obtained from the inside of the leaves contains compounds such as anthraquinones, lectins, polysaccharides etc that render it its medicinal value. It is widely used to treat skin rashes, burns, insect bites etc. It is also used for cosmetic purposes in skin creams, lotions and soaps due its soothing and moisturizing properties. Aloe Vera gel is a natural sunscreen and can be used as a hair pack for damaged hair. These days, Aloe Vera juice is widely available in the market and is known to improve blood glucose level in diabetic patients. Other uses of Aloe Vera include treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn and hepatitis.

3. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha plant is found extensively in the region of Himalayas in India. It is the root of this plant that is widely used for medicinal purposes. Ashwagandha is beneficial for the brain and its ingestion is used for the treatment for insomnia. It is a natural diuretic and is helpful in curing urinary disorders and supports the treatment of kidney ailments. It is a proven aid for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, gout etc. and when massaged along with sesame oil, it is helpful in healing joint pain and stiffness. Ashwagandha is a natural aphrodisiac and is known to boost energy levels in under-weight individuals.

4. Amalaki

Also known as amla or gooseberry, Amalaki has antiviral and antimicrobial properties. The fruit, seed, bark, leaves, root as well as the flowers of the Amalaki plant are used in a wide variety of ayurvedic preparations. High in vitamin C, Amla is a natural antioxidant and is used to enhance digestion, treat constipation, purify blood, reduce cough and fever. Ingestion and application of this herb on the scalp is known to stimulate hair growth. Amalaki is also considered good for the eyesight, brain and teeth.

5. Brahmi

Brahmi is a creeper widely found in Indian wetlands. The herb enhances body’s antioxidant defenses and keeps the gastrointestinal system healthy. In traditional medicine, Brahmi is known to enhance intellect, memory capacity and motor learning ability in individuals. A natural sedative, Brahmi is also used in traditional treatment of asthma and epilepsy because of its anti-anxiety properties.

Each herb in the formula has certain properties that can help the body in several ways:

Blessed Thistle:

Blessed thistle has antibiotic effects that cleanses and stimulates the digestive system.

Burdock Root:

If consumed separately, the burdock is often used as a digestive system and appetite stimulant due to its gastric and bile secretions. The problems that are commonly treat with the burdock plant: anorexia, kidney disease, cystitis, burns, jugs, pain, rheumatism, gout, and many skin conditions. In addition, it removes the excess fluid from the body and it is a source of chromium, magnesium, silicon and thiamine.

Laminaria (Brown Algae):

Laminaria contains a lot of rare minerals and iodine and it regulates the thyroid gland and the metabolism.

Red Clover:

The red clover  purifies the blood. It is also used as anti-spasmodic and it reduces the symptoms of bronchitis and cough. It is frequently combined with yellow burdock and watercress to treat rashes and other skin conditions.

Red clover is a source of many nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamin and vitamin C. The red clover is also considered t one of the richest sources of isoflavones (water-soluble substances that act like the estrogen and are found in many herbs).

The isoflavones isolated from the red clover have been studied for their effectiveness in treating some forms of cancer. It is believed that the isoflavones prevent the proliferation of the cancer cells and in some cases; they may even destroy the cancer cells. Laboratory tests found that the red clover isoflavones protect against the development of breast cancer cells.

Elm With Smooth Bark:

This type of elm strengthens and soothes the mucus. It also dissolves the excess mucus from the body organs, tissues, lymph nodes and nerve endings. It helps in the body detoxification and it maintains the bones and joints. It has been used to treat gastrointestinal disease such as gastritis, ulcers and colitis and other conditions such as hemorrhoids, vaginitis and skin conditions.

Turkish Rhubarb Root:

The Rhubarb Root has an excellent purgative action in treating constipation and an astringent effect that triggers the intestines cleansing. It has antiseptic properties and it has the ability to clean the toxins stored in the intestines.

Watercress:

The Watercress is a natural resource rich in phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), which gives the herb a distinctive peppery taste.

Scientific studies have shown that PEITC can kill cancer cells, prevents the cancer-producing agents to be metabolized, and stimulates the enzymatic activity involved in the detoxification (removal) of the carcinogens.

Sheep Sorrel:

It destroys the foreign tissue (such as tumor masses) and toxic deposits in the body and it stimulates the body’s immune system. The sheep sorrel is rich in vitamins and minerals. It also reduces inflammation.

In addition, combining the specific properties of each plant creates synergistic effects that reduce or eliminate cancerous tumors and treat many other conditions.

In 1990, tests that included the administration of watercress in smokers demonstrated that smokers who consumed 50 grams of watercress at each meal were protected by a very strong carcinogen (NKK) associated with tobacco and lung cancer.

Amazing Amazon Herbs – The Cocoa Tree

The cocoa tree is truly amazing. All parts of the tree can be used for medicinal purposes, and the uses and results are so astounding that the tree has been exported to other countries as well, such as Europe. It is used to treat coughs, fatigue, anxiety, fever, kidney stones, burns, cuts, and a variety of other ailments. Research has also found that the cocoa tree contains properties that can actually help to prevent heart disease.

Amazing Amazon Herbs – The Trumpet Tree

As with the Cocoa Tree, every part of the Trumpet Tree can be used for medicinal purposes. The Trumpet Tree is famous for the treatment of respiratory problems, and has also shown promise in the area of treating arthritis and rheumatism. Today, the Trumpet Tree is widely used in South America and Central America.

Amazing Amazon Herbs – The Lipstick Tree

The Lipstick Tree, also known as the Annatto Tree can be used to repel insects. In terms of medicinal use, however, it is most effective for lowering blood pressure. The Lipstick Tree gets its nickname from the fact that it has been used by many cultures in love potions. Parts of this tree can also be used in the treatment of snake bites, and it can help to protect humans from UV rays as well. Some cultures use it for the treatment of heartburn.

Three additional Amazing Amazon Herbs that you should know about are the Clavillia, the Suma, and the Curare. Clavillia can be used to fight bacteria, fungus, viruses, and even parasites. Curare is actually poisonous, but can be used externally for fever, kidney stones, and bruises. In some cultures, it is used as anesthesia.

Suma is often used to increase the appetite, to improve circulation, to treat diabetes, and to improve memory. It has also been successfully used to boost the immune system and to improve the function of the muscles.

These Amazing Amazon Herbs are available in a variety of products, and when you shop for natural products for the treatment of various illnesses and conditions, you should definitely be looking for these ingredients. Make sure that you follow the directions for use correctly so that you do not overdose on these beneficial herbs.

Herbs are Used for a Variety of Reasons

Herbs have many uses.  They are used to treat or prevent multiple physical and mental health issues.   They are used for the benefits they offer in management and treatment of physical symptoms or ailments such as pain and inflammation, infections, constipation, blood chemistry values and many more.  People who have problems with depression, dementia, memory and anxiety seek the mental benefits of herbal treatments.

10 Common Liquid Herbs that May Benefit You

1. St. John’s Wort Herb Extract is probably the most well known liquid herbal supplement.  It has effects such as enhancement of mood and reducing symptoms of depression.
2. Echinacea Herb is beneficial for fighting colds and other respiratory problems.
3. Chamomile is available in several liquid forms. It is used in teas and has a relaxing and soothing effect and can sooth the digestive system. Chamomile can also be found in many soaps, shampoos and lotions for the benefit of the skin and the relaxing and calming effects of the fragrance.
4. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is known to improve memory and help maintain mental health.  This herb is said to reduce dementia symptoms and is a natural pain reliever. It is also used in the treatment of Vertigo and tinnitus.
5. Aloe Vera Extract has anti inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is used commonly on burns and to treat disorders of the digestive tract and as a general health tonic.
6. Green Tea Leaf Extract commonly used in teas and soft drinks is effective for lowering cholesterol.
7. Milk Thistle Seed Extract is commonly used to help repair damage to the liver and treat cirrhosis.
8. Grape Seed Extract is known to improve blood flow and aid in circulatory problems. It is also beneficial in the treatment of the flu and cold symptoms.
9. Valerian Root is commonly used to treat anxiety and restlessness. It is used by many people who have trouble falling asleep.
10. Cascara Sagrada is a liquid herb used by many people and prescribed by doctors to treat constipation.

The Benefit of Using Common Liquid Herbs vs. Tablet or Capsule Forms

Herbs come in different forms, tablets, capsules and liquid.  There is a benefit to the use of liquid herbs because they are absorbed more quickly and easily than other forms of herbs.

Tablets or capsule forms of herbs have to go through the digestive system to reach the small intestine where they begin to be absorbed.  In this process many of the beneficial properties are lost.  By using the common liquid herbs which do not require being processed through the digestive system and are absorbed immediately and distributed throughout the body in the bloodstream, you will receive the full, desired effect.