Lemon Balm Herb, Tea and Oil Benefits

While native to southern Europe, lemon balm is now found growing throughout the world. The lemony smell and pretty white flowers of the lemon balm plant have led to its widespread cultivation in gardens. The leaves, stems, and flowers of lemon balm are used medicinally.

Lemon balm can be compared with the effectiveness of mint in the soothing effect it has on the stomach and the positive effect it has on the digestive system. Lemon balm is used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with indigestion and offers relief for such symptoms as gas and bloating. Lemon balm is also beneficial to those suffering from nervousness, anxiety and slight insomnia. Lemon balm helps to calm and relax the nerves and has been used successfully since the Middle Ages.

Lemon balm holds some sedative properties found specifically in some of the chemicals it contains in volatile oils, including citronellal and citrals A and B. In case studies with humans and animals alike, lemon balm has demonstrated calming effects when taken orally. When consumption doses are increased, lemon balm may induce sleep. One case study indicated further benefits of lemon balm may include improved memory and lengthened attention span among patients who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. This may be a consequence of the presence of antioxidants in lemon balm, which are suspected to offer protection for the body's cells from oxidation, a chemical process causing damage to the cells. Yet another case study showed the use of lemon balm in aromatherapy, applying or inhaling fragrances to affect the mood, was effective in calming overexcited individuals specifically those suffering from dementia (an progressive deficiency in thought processes caused by brain damage). In the past, lemon balm has been useful for relieving menstrual cramps, urinary spasms, and gastrointestinal complications or pain. The volatile oils in lemon balm are made up of chemicals that help the muscles relax, particularly the muscles of the bladder, stomach, and uterus, consequently providing relief of cramps, gas, and nausea. Unfortunately, research results are still somewhat inconclusive, and human case studies are lacking to provide concrete proof of its purported uses.

Lemon balm may also help to block some of the secretion of the thyroid gland and its ability to release hormones in the body. Consequently, lemon balm has been implemented for use in connection with Grave's disease, which is an autoimmune condition where individuals suffer from excess thyroid hormone due to an overactive thyroid. However, clinical studies do not supports its use for this condition.

Lemon balm has been used in connection with diseases or conditions involving herpes and other viruses. Creams and ointments that include lemon balm have helped to heal cold sores or genital sores induced by the herpes simplex virus. It was also noted that the infections themselves were confined while using the lemon balm and did not spread as much, and individuals reported that the use of lemon balm topically offered further relief from symptoms such as redness and itching. Lemon balm's antivital properties may be attributed to chemical compounds it contains such as caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid. However, to date, no human studies have been carried out to support the belief that lemon balm is effective against bacterial and fungal activity; however, laboratory studies show that lemon balm has demonstrated some effect against both.

Dosage and Administration

For difficulty sleeping or to reduce stomach complaints, flatulence, or bloating, choose from the following:
Tea, using 1.5 to 4.5 g herb, several times daily
2 to 3 mL tincture three times daily, or the equivalent in fluid extract or encapsulated form
For cold sores or herpes sores, steep 2 to 4 tsp of crushed leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Cool. Apply with cotton balls to the sores throughout the day.

For children, lemon balm may be used topically on cold sores. The dosage would be the same as the recommendations for this use in adults. For internal use, adjust the recommended adult dose to account for the child's weight. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 lb (20 to 25 kg), the appropriate dose of lemon balm for this child would be 1/3 of the adult dosage.

In general, you should read the manufacturer's suggestions for use when taking any herbal product, and consult with your health care provider for brands and dosages that he or she recommends.


Thank natural to make herbals for good life!

Read More

Hawthorn Herb Information and Benefits

Hawthorn is a common, thorny shrub that grows up to five feet tall on hillsides and in sunny wooded areas of North America, Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The Hawthorn plant produces small berries, called haws, which sprout each May after the flowers of the hawthorn plant bloom. Hawthorn berries are usually red when ripe, but may be much darker. Hawthorn leaves, while usually shiny, may grow in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Bioflavonoid complexes (including oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs), vitexin, quercetin, and hyperoside) found in the leaves, flowers, and berries of hawthorn are believed to be responsible for the herbs positive health benefits. Hawthorn is well know for the cardiac benefits it provides, including improved coronary artery blood flow as well as improved blood flow in the extremeties. Hawthorn may also be helpful when used in connection with other conditions such as angina, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and some arrhythmias. It is believed by some professionals that chemicals in hawthorn may act directly on the heart muscle to increase the force of heartbeats and to relax the arteries around the heart. Hawthorn may also work indirectly by widening blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. As a result, it may assist in stabilizing blood pressure.

Based on evidence provided by clinical trials it has been confirmed that hawthorn extracts benefit individuals with early-state congestive heart failure.

In recent animal studies, results indicated that hawthorn herb may be able to lower cholesterol levels by reducing the production of cholesterol and by augmenting the body's ability to breakdown cholesterol. An additional human study also produced similar cholesterol-lowering results, but evidence is still lacking to verify the validity or applicability of these results.

Many of the active contituents found in hawthorn exhibit potent antioxidant properties.

Dosage and Administration

Hawthorn products standardized to contain either 4 to 20 mg flavonoids/30 to 160 mg oligomeric procyanidins, or 1.8 vitexin rhamnoside/10 procyanidins, are recommended. When supplementing with hawthorn make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Hawthorn for heart failure or angina may require at least six weeks of use, three times per day before an effect is noticed.

Precautions and Side Effects

Most researchers are in agreement that hawthorn is a relatively safe herb. Notwithstanding, it is always recommended to follow recommended dosages or consult with a doctor before taking any supplement.

Thank natural to make herbals for good life!

Read More

Yarrow Root and Yarrow Herb

Yarrow is a very hardy and prolific plant which can be found growing naturally in many regions of Europe, North America, and Asia. It is also a very attractive plant that is used in residential and commercial landscaping. The flowering tops of yarrow are used to produce herbal remedies and preparations.

Yarrow is believed to have originated in the milder climates of Europe and Asia and has been around for over 3,000 years. In ancient times the leaves and flowers of yarrow were eaten and tea-like drink was made from yarrow leaves. Medicinally, fresh leaves of the yarrow plant were applied to wounds to stop bleeding, fight fevers, treat gastrointestinal conditions, lessen heavy menstrual bleeding, and improve circulation. Fresh leaves were chewed to relieve toothaches.

In more recent times, yarrow has been used in connection with a number of health conditions including menstrual ailments and bleeding hemorrhoids. Similar to chamomile, yarrow is also a common herbal remedy for bloating, flatulence, and mild gastrointestinal cramping.

A number of chemicals may contribute to yarrow's medicinal properties. The volatile oil of yarrow, which is rich in sesquiterpene lactones and alkamides, is believed to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that yarrow can reduce smooth muscle spasms, which might further explain its usefulness in gastrointestinal conditions. The alkaloid obtained from the herb known as achilletin has been reported to stop bleeding; however, no human clinical trials have confirmed the effectiveness of these traditional uses of yarrow.

Dosage and Administration

The following are recommended adult doses for yarrow:
Dried herb: 2 to 4 g in infusion or capsules three times a day
Extract (1:1, 25 ethanol): 1 to 4 mL three times a day
Tincture (1:5; 40 ethanol): 2 to 4 mL three times a day
Yarrow flowers, or equivalent preparations: 3 g a day as infusion or tea

Thank natural to make herbals for good life!

Read More

Red Raspberry Leaf, Tea, Herb and Extract Benefits

Raspberry bushes are native to North America but are cultivated in other countries including Canada. Although it is best known for its delicious red berries, raspberry leaves have a number of medical applications. They have been used in connection with the common cold, sore throats, diarrhea, pregnancy, and postpartum support.

In pregnancy it was traditionally used to help with nausea, ease labor and delivery, and post- partum recovery. It is also helpful for regulating menstrual period and controlling diarrhea.

Raspberry leaf tea also acts as an astringent on irritated skin by tightening the top layers of skin or mucous membranes effectively reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. As a mouth wash it is used to soothe mouth and throat irritations.

Possible Side Effects and Contradictions

Raspberry leaf may affect infants and is not recommended for women who are breast-feeding. Pregnant women should avoid taking Raspberry leaf tea 3 months before delivery. Diabetics should be careful as it might lower the blood sugar levels drastically.

Dosage and Administration
As a tea use 2-3 tsp of dried or chopped leaves in 5 -8oz of boiling water for 5 min, discarding solid particles. Take as needed.
Topically use tea on skin.
Orally as a mouth wash use tea dosageThank natural to make herbals for good life!

Read More

Insure life:Can Intake of Herb Borage Herb Really Affect your Breast Size?

Breast enlargement supplement usually contain herbs (like Borage Herb), with natural estrogenic properties from plant sources (phyto-estrogens) that work by regulating hormones and promote healthy tissue growth.

Estrogen is what causes the breasts to grow at puberty. There are many chemical and environmental toxins that can mimic estrogens and attach to the receptor sites also. The plant nutrients will help to wash these out of the system and increase the health of the breast tissues.

One of most commonly used herb in breast enhancement dietary supplements is Borage Herb. The whole plant is rough with white, stiff, prickly hairs. It can grow to a height of about 18 inches, and spread about 12 inches. It is a native of northern Europe, and grows well in the temperate regions of North America.

Diuretic, demulcent, emollient. It is a tonic plant for the adrenal glands therefore borage provides a very useful support for a stressful lifestyle.However, intake of Borage Herb alone may not be that effective, unless it is combined synergistically with other similar herbs that contain phytoestrogens. And not all phytoestrogens give the same effectiveness to affect your breast size.
So, where can one find the herb that gives the best phytoestrogens? Or does it exist in the first place?

Studies have shown that Pueraria Mirifica as one of the best phytoestrogen you can find. What makes Pueraria Mirifica the best Phytoestrogen? How is it different from Borage Herb?

Pueraria mirifica is an indigenous herb of Thailand, known in Thai as "Kwao Kreu" or "Kwao Kreu Kao" (White Kwao Kreu). It belongs to the FamilyLeguminosae,subfamily Papilionoideae or the soy, bean & pea subfamily, The plants are commonly found in abundant in the forests in the north, the west and the northeast of Thailand at the altitude of 300-800 meters above sea level, Active principles in this plant are found in the tuberous root, which looks like chain of round-shaped bulbs of various sizes connected to the next one via small root throughout the entire length of the root. The shape and size of the tuberous root are diverse depending on the environment in which it exists. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that phytoestrogen "Miroestrol" and "Deoxymiroestrol" can only be found in Pueraria Mirifica!

"Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol " is very different from other phytoestrogens found in other plants such as Borage Herb. It posses highest estrogenic activity among the known phytoestrogens due to structural similarity to Estradial. Estradiol is the main human estrogen which can be found in all women who are at the stage of nursing baby (Lactating); as you may notice that all women who are in this stage, their breast will enlarge and gain firmness for feeding purpose. This is the main reason why Pueraria Mirifica is unique from other breast enhancement herbs such as Borage Herb.

Women in the rural communities in Thailand where this herb grows have used the tuberous roots of Pueraria Mirifica effectively as "rejuvenating" folk medicine for well over a hundred years, before it becomes well known and has received much attention from Thai and foreign scientists and mainstream alike not so many years ago.

The above information on Pueraria Mirifica is found in Ms Yvonne Lee, internationally acclaimed book "To All Women Who Want To Enhance Their Breasts Naturally, But Don't Know How To Start". It describes and details the most important breast enhancement techniques from every corner of the world. Author Yvonne Lee, provides an unbiased pro-and-con analysis of each technique, in addition to practical information such as how and

where to get it, cost, and potential impact on insurance coverage.
Insure life:Can Intake of Herb Borage Herb Really Affect your Breast Size?
Author: Julie Walker

Read More

Dong Quai : Angelica sinensis

Dong quai is an aromatic herb that grows in China, Korea, and Japan. The reputation of Dong quai is second only to Ginseng and is considered the ultimate, all-purpose woman's tonic herb. It is used for almost every gynecological complaint from regulating the menstrual cycle to treating menopausal symptoms caused by hormonal changes.
Dong quai is frequently used by the Chinese as a strengthening treatment for the heart, spleen, liver and kidneys. Both men and women use the herb as a general blood tonic.

Dong quai contains vitamins E, A and B12. Researchers have isolated at least six coumarin derivatives that exert antispasmodic and vasodilatory effects. Antispasmodics are a remedy for menstrual cramps. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide, butylphthalide and numerous other minor components. Ferulic acid and various polysaccharides are also found in dong quai's root. These elements can prevent spasms, reduce blood clotting and relax peripheral blood vessels. Research has shown that dong quai produces a balancing effect on estrogen activity.

Modern treatments prescribe the herb to combat PMS and to help women resume normal menstruation after using birth control pills.

The herb has been found useful in balancing and treating many female systems and cycles. Dong quai's constituents can act to stimulate the central nervous system which can remedy weakness and headaches associated with menstrual disorders. It strengthens internal reproductive organs, helps with endometriosis and internal bleeding or bruising. It relieves menopausal conditions such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes.

The herb has also been used as a blood purifier, to promote blood circulation and nourish the blood in both sexes. It is high in iron content and may help to prevent iron deficiency and anemia. Studies show that it can aid in regulating blood sugar and in lowering blood pressure.

Dong quai has a mild sedative effect which can relieve stress and calms the nerves. It has also be used to stimulate the uterus during childbirth, treat insomnia, alleviate constipation and for migraine headaches.

Parts Used: Whole root. Found in tea, herbal preparations, capsules, extract and recipes.

Read More

Insure life: Will Consumption of Herb Ginkgo Really Affect your Bustline?

Breast enhancement dietary supplements usually contain herbs (like Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba)), with natural estrogenic properties from plant sources (phyto-estrogens) that work by regulating hormones and promote healthy tissue growth.

The herbs found in breast enhancement formulas do not usually contain estrogen or other hormones. However, they do contain hormone-like substances. One common type is called a phyto-estrogen, that can mimic the activity of human hormones such as estrogen or progesterone, or make proper levels of such hormones more available in the body by normalizing glandular and hormonal activity.

One of most commonly used herb in breast enlargement supplement is Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba). Ginkgo tree is one of the oldest trees on Earth. Ginkgo trees may grow to 122 ft (37.2 m) tall and measure 4 ft (1.2 m) in girth. The leaves are bright green in spring and summer, and to golden yellow in the fall. Ginkgo trees may take as long as 30 years

Ginkgo leaves are used to treat allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. Ginkgo helps to increase blood flow throughout the body, particularly cerebral blood flow. The herb is a useful and proven remedy for numerous diseases caused by restricted blood flow.

However, intake of Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba) alone may not be that effective, unless it is combined synergistically with other similar herbs that contain phytoestrogens. And not all phytoestrogens give the same effectiveness to affect your bustline.

So, where can one find the herb that gives the best phytoestrogens? Or does it exist in the first place?

Studies have shown that Pueraria Mirifica as one of the best phytoestrogen you can find. What makes Pueraria Mirifica the best Phytoestrogen? How is it different from Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba)?

Pueraria mirifica is an indigenous herb of Thailand, known in Thai as "Kwao Kreu" or "Kwao Kreu Kao" (White Kwao Kreu). It belongs to the Family Leguminosae, subfamily Papilionoideae or the soy, bean & pea subfamily, The plants are commonly found in abundant in the forests in the north, the west and the northeast of Thailand at the altitude of 300-800 meters above sea level, Active principles in this plant are found in the tuberous root, which looks like chain of round-shaped bulbs of various sizes connected to the next one via small root throughout the entire length of the root. The shape and size of the tuberous root are diverse depending on the environment in which it exists. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that phytoestrogen "Miroestrol" and "Deoxymiroestrol" can only be found in Pueraria Mirifica!

"Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol " is very different from other phytoestrogens found in other plants such as Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba). It posses highest estrogenic activity among the known phytoestrogens due to structural similarity to Estradial. Estradiol is the main human estrogen which can be found in all women who are at the stage of nursing baby (Lactating); as you may notice that all women who are in this stage, their breast will enlarge and gain firmness for feeding purpose. This is the main reason why Pueraria Mirifica is unique from other breast enhancement herbs such as Ginkgo (a.k.a. Gingko Biloba).

Women in the rural communities in Thailand where this herb grows have used the tuberous roots of Pueraria Mirifica effectively as "rejuvenating" folk medicine for well over a hundred years, before it becomes well known and has received much attention from Thai and foreign scientists and mainstream alike not so many years ago.

The above information on Pueraria Mirifica is found in Ms Yvonne Lee, internationally acclaimed book "To All Women Who Want To Enhance Their Breasts Naturally, But Don't Know How To Start". It describes and details the most important breast enhancement techniques from every corner of the world. Author Yvonne Lee, provides an unbiased pro-and-con analysis of each technique, in addition to practical information such as how and where to get it, cost, and potential impact on insurance coverage.


Insure life: Will Consumption of Herb Ginkgo Really Affect your Bustline?
by Author: Julie Walker

Read More

Herb Shampoo recipe

Easy make Herb Shampoo.
4 Herb Shampoo

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

2 tablespoons fresh parsley
2 tablespoons rosemary leaves
2 tablespoons sage leaves
2 tablespoons thyme leaves
1 cup boiling water
1 cup castile soap (Dr. Bronner's or similar)

Directions:

This shampoo is appropriate for all hair types.

Add herbs to boiling water. Remove from heat. Cover. Let steep 20 minutes.

Add soap. Strain into a container.

Let stand overnight before using.

Read More

Ginseng Root and Herb

This famous Chinese herb has been used for over 5,000 years. It was worth more than gold to the Qing Dynasty of ancient China.

Ginseng is used in thousands of formulas to provide vivacity and energy. Ginseng is used more than any other herbal remedy.

Ginseng contains nitrogenous compounds, minerals, vitamins, fat-soluble compounds, and carbohydrate compounds in its stained root. The herb is costly and not easy to produce and takes six years to reach maturity. Researchers today label ginseng as a strong immune system tonic that can uniquely affect the entire body.
Various types of ginseng include Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular and grows in China, Korea, and Japan. Siberian ginseng is native to Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. America ginseng can be found in forested areas from Quebec to Minnesota and south to Georgia and Oklahoma.

American and Asian ginseng, both similar in chemical composition and appearance, are the types recognized for having healing powers. Ginseng grown in North American is often thought of as the most favorable and costly. It is grown and exported from Wisconsin, British Columbia, and Ontario.

Read More

The Herbals for Skin Care

Herbs have been used in skin care from times immemorial. Ancient Ayurvedic texts in India speak of the use various herbs, such as, basil, turmeric, and saffron in skin care preparations. Herbs are now being increasingly used in the manufacture of skin care products across the world because of their healing and rejuvenating properties. Some brands do not even use artificial preservatives in their products, instead depending on the inherent quality of certain herbs to preserve themselves.

Today, aloe vera is one of the most popular herbs, hailed for its skin-soothing and anti-aging properties. It is used in cleansers, face washes, massage creams, sunscreens, and anti-acne products. Tea tree oil is also widely used in skin care products for its antiseptic and anti-acne properties. Ginseng, sage, rosemary, witch hazel, chamomile, calendula, and arnica are also popular. They are used in the manufacture of skin care products for different skin types, based on their properties.

Basil and mint are used in acne skin care because of their anti-bacterial and refreshing properties. Fresh basil or mint juice can be applied everyday on pimples. Turmeric is another essential ingredient in many skin care products because of its antiseptic quality. It ensures a glowing, blemish-free complexion. Fresh turmeric fingers can be ground with a little milk and applied on the face and the body. Pure saffron is widely used in traditional medicinal and skin care preparations in India and the Middle East. A few almonds and saffron strands can be soaked in milk and then ground into a paste with the milk. Mixed with rosewater, this face mask nourishes and revitalizes skin. These are simple herbal skin care preparations that can be made by everybody at home. However, elaborate herbal remedies should not be attempted at home without proper knowledge of herbs and their effects.

To conclude, certain herbs are very beneficial for the skin and products containing them can be used with good effect. However, products of only reputed brands should be used, as the wrong mix of herbs could create problems. Skin Care provides detailed information on Skin Care, Skin Care Products, Natural Skin Care, Anti Aging Skin Care and more. Skin Care is affiliated with Natural Skin Care Products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com Josh_Riverside

Read More