BENEFITS OF HERBS

Burdock,Buchu, Calamus ,

Caraway,Casgara Sagrada,Cat's Claw

(Una de Gato),Catnip,Cayenne

Burdock,

Latin name Arctium lappa, is a carrot-like root from the plant Arctium lappa, a biennial herb grown in China, Europe and the United States. Employed as a popular folk medicine around the world, burdock is also consumed as a vegetable in Japan, where it is called 'gobo'.

Burdock seeds are crushed to make a popular tincture used to purify the blood, to treat gout and ulcers, arthritis, rheumatism, and cure skin diseases such as acne and psoriasis. In India and Russia, the root is a popular anti-cancer remedy

The volatile oils of burdock seed are said to be an effective diaphoretic, used to inducing sweating as an aid in neutralizing and eliminating toxins from the body. This activity is widely utilized by herbal practitioner's in the treatment of liver problems, gallstones, flu, and to support the kidneys in filtering acids from the blood stream.

Studies of burdock show that it is high in minerals, being a good source of iron. Data also indicates that the root is a good source of the carbohydrate inulin which can account for 45% of the plant mass. Burdock is also a good source of essential oils and other compounds that exhibit bacteriostatic and anti-fungal activity.

Burdock is an effective diuretic, and is considered a very safe herb and food product, though there have been cases where the purity of the root has raised some concern. Reported cases involving toxic effects were first thought to be caused by the consumption of burdock tea, but were later determined to be caused by contamination of the burdock root with belladonna root which contains atropine. In light of such issues, when using burdock root determine the quality of the source and quality of root before purchase.

Buchu,

Latin name Agathosma betulina, is a small shrub native to South Africa where it is used as a popular flavoring agent to impart a peppermint-like flavor to brandies and wines. First used by the Hottentot tribe, it gained wide use in Europe and Africa where the dried leaves of Buchu have long been used as a folk remedy for the treatment of almost every known affliction.

Employed as a diuretic and antiseptic, the long leaves of this herb are brewed for use in treatment of inflammation of the urethra, blood in the urine, bladder infections and other chronic urinary tract disorders. It is also said to be an effective remedy for kidney stones, cystitis, and rheumatism.

Buchu contains 'barosma champhor' and other volatile oils which account for its mild diuretic and antiseptic activity. Buchu is considered to be an extremely safe herb and there are no reported toxic effects. If using for treatment of a urinary tract infection, the only caution would be to have a proper diagnosis of the ailment, since Buchu is completely ineffective in treating other diseases that could be related to other gynecological system functions.

Source: Leaves. (Leaves should not be boiled.)

Content: Barosma camphor, diasmin, essential oils, l-enthone, hesperidin, mucilage, resin acid, linolenic acid, mucilage.

Uses: Anti-inflammatory for the colon, gums, mucous membranes, prostate, sinuses, and vagina. Indicated for bladder and kidney problems, digestive disorders, fluid retention, and prostate disorders. Particularly helpful for bladder infections.

Calamus

In China, Calamus Root is considered to have anti-arrhythmic, hypotensive, vasodilatory, anti-tussive, anti-bacterial and expectorant properties. Calamus has been used for lack of mental focus, stomach problems, acidity, and as an aid to quit partaking of tobacco.

Calamus has been shown to be of low toxicity in animals, and adverse reactions are rare. Though recent studies have revealed the presence of B-asarone, a carcinogen, the American variety is considered superior to the European because it seems to lack this ingredient.The Native Americans would chew the root while running long distances to increase endurance and stamina.

Externally, it is added to the bath to quiet the nerves and induce a state of tranquillity. Tincture of Calamus is useful as a parasiticide when directly, and frequently, applied to lice & scabies infestations.

Calamus does have emmanagogic properties and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Caraway

The seeds from this plant (Carum carvi), which are often used in baked goods, are known for their mildly spicy, aromatic flavor. Caraway was once used in love potions. Caraway is soothing for gas and other stomach disorders. It can also increase the appetite. Brewed into a tea, the warm fluid is excellent for coughs and colds. For centuries, midwives have used Caraway to stimulate the production of breast milk in nursing mothers and to ease colic in infants.

Caraway works as an excellent digestive aid, and it helps expel gas and reduce nausea. Other benefits of Caraway include its ability to improve appetite and increase breast milk in nursing mothers. Caraway also works as an effective expectorant for coughs due to colds.

Caraway can be used orally as an extract my mixing 3 to 4 drops in liquid, 3 to 4 times daily, or by chewing the seeds 3 to 4 times daily. For colic, mix 1 to 2 drops of extract (never seeds) in infant formula for 2 feedings. Always check with your pediatrician before giving this, or any other herb, to your baby or child.

Grown in India, the pungent, aromatic seeds of Cardamom (Elletaria cardamonum) contain a large amount of volatile oil that helps stimulate digestion and relieve gas. A mild stimulant, Cardamom is a standard ingredient in curry.

For indigestion, mix 15 pulverized seeds in 1/2 cup of hot water. Add 1 ounce of fresh ginger root and a cinnamon stick. Simmer 15 minutes over low heat. Add 1/2 cup of milk, and simmer 10 more minutes. Add 2 to 3 drops of vanilla, and sweeten with honey.

Cascara sagrada,

also called Sacred bark and Chittem bark, is an herb derived from the year old bark of Rhamnus purshiana. Native American Indians commonly used Cascara sagrada to treat constipation and upset stomachs.

Taken as an extremely bitter tasting tonic, or in tablet or capsule form, Cascara sagrada is regarded to be a safe laxative that is often employed as a remedy for mild and chronic constipation. Modern herbalists also recommend it as a tonic for the digestive system, and to stimulate the liver, pancreas, gallbladder and stomach. It is also considered to be useful in the treatment of jaundice, hemorrhoids and colic.

Clinical researchers have isolated several Anthraquinone glycosides as the active principles in cascara. These glycosides are hydrolyzed by bacteria in the colon, resulting in its laxative activity. Free anthraquinone and hydroxyanthracene derivative (HAD) are the main active glycosides responsible for the laxative effects of Cascara sagrada. These active substances cause an increased peristalsis locally in the large intestine. HAD also helps by circulating in the bloodstream and stimulating a nerve center to trigger a laxative effect.

Cascara sagrada is considered one of the safest laxatives and can be used to restore tone to the colon, as well as being useful in detoxifying and cleansing programs. Cascara sagrada can also be used in small doses as a liver tonic and a chelating agent to prevent the occurrence of calcium-based urinary stones.

Taken at night or shortly before sleep, Cascara sagrada is an effective agent for treating mild constipation, though it should not be used on a regular basis. While it is normal for Cascara sagrada to temporarily turn urine a reddish color, if diarrhea should result, discontinue use immediately.

Supportive agents commonly used with Cascara sagrada include: Laxative-Butternut root bark, Frangula, Licorice Root, Irish Moss, Dandelion, Milk Thistle, Schizandra and Wild Yam.

Cat's Claw (Una de Gato) *****

is a wood vine that grows in Peru and has been used by the Peruvian Indians for years for the treatment of a wide range of health problems. Cat's Claw helps create support for the intestinal and immune systems of the body, and also creates intestinal support by its ability to cleanse the entire intestinal tract. This cleansing helps create support for people experiencing different stomach and bowel disorders, including: colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and leaky bowel syndrome.

Cat's Claw contains seven different alkaloids that are credited with having a variety of different medicinal and healing properties. The most immunologically active alkaloid is believed to be Isopteropodin (Isomer A), which increases the immune response in the body. In addition, the presence of glycosides, proanthocyanidins and beta sitosterol help provide anti-viral, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory support for the body.

Intestinal cleanser, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, enhances white blood cell action. Indicated for intestinal problems and viral infections. May be helpful for AIDS, arthritis, cancer tumors or ulcers. Do not use when pregnant.

Catnip

is undoubtedly best recognized as an intoxicating herb that cats find to be irresistible. Also commonly called catnip and catmint, this relative of the mint family is also a well regarded herbal calmative with numerous applications for a number of human ailments. Use of catnip as a mildly relaxing tea dates back to old England were it was a popular drink prior to the importation of teas from Asia.

In folk medicine, catnip leaves and flowers are usually steeped to make a pleasant tasting tea. Consumed prior to bedtime, catnip tea is widely believed to hasten slumber and aid in achieving a restful nights sleep. It is also employed as a remedy in the treatment of tension and nervousness, and is mentioned as being a useful calmative for hyperactive children.

Catnip is also listed as a mild diaphoretic, helpful in eliminating toxins from the body, as well as acting as a carminative to support digestion, relieve upset stomach, and control the symptoms of diarrhea.

The claimed effects of this mild herb are generally acknowledged in contemporary literature which lists the principal active agent in catnip as 'nepetalactone', a volatile oil similar in structure to the sedative ingredient found in valerian root, another well known sedative herb.

In recent years, the smoking of dried leaves of this herb has been mistakenly popularized in certain circles in the belief that one can attain intoxicating highs similar to that produced by marijuana. This is now generally recognized as untrue, and was based upon a confusing similarity in the physical appearance of the two plants. Catnip is an extremely safe herb, and there are no listed warnings or contraindications.

Cayenne / Capsicum

Recently, this fiery, bright-red herb has become as hot in healing as it is on the tongue. Believe it or not, Cayenne, which can set your mouth ablaze, actually quells certain types of sever, chronic pain, including arthritis, vascular foot pain and shingles. And here's another bit of news: Cayenne aids digestion and my help prevent heart disease.

Digestion? Yes, we know. Lots of folks still thing this fiery food causes ulcers. Not so, say scientists. In one study, researchers using a tiny video camera examined subjects' stomach linings while they ate both bland meals and food liberally spiced with jalapeno peppers, a close cousin of cayenne. No difference in their effects on the lining was observed.

Scientists believe capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne, assists digestion by stimulation the flow of both salvia and stomach secretions. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates, an stomach secretion contain acids and other substances that help digest food.

Healing with Cayenne:

If your goal is to aid digestion or to possibly reduce the risk of heart disease, experts recommend taking cayenne in capsules, which are available from most herbal suppliers.  Or just keep this spice on your dinner table. Even very small amounts cayenne are

therapeutic. Some of its best-known curative powers include:

Rubbing out minor aches and pains: For centuries, herbalists have recommended topical applications of red pepper for sore muscles and joints. Medically, this type of treatment is known as "counter-irritant": It causes minor superficial discomfort but distracts the person from the more sever, deeper pain. One over-the-counter brand of capsaicin counterirritant is Heet.

Easing long-term pain: Doctors recommend the topical cream Zostrix, which contains capsaicin, for arthritis pain, vascular foot pain and the pain caused by shingles.

Relieving cluster headaches: In a study, people who regularly experienced cluster headaches-characterized by a sharp, stabbing sensation on one side of the head, often around the eye-rubbed a capsaicin preparation on and inside their nose on the same side of the head as their pain. Within five days, 75 percent reported less pain and fewer headaches. If you suffer from cluster headaches, ask you doctor about prescribing a capsaicin treatment.

Helping the heart: "Cayenne cuts cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of the blood clots that trigger heart attacks," explains Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D., director of the American Phytotherapy Research Laboratory in Salt Lake City and author of The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine.

Safety Considerations:

Cayenne is generally regarded as safe unless you have ulcers or a history of stomach problems. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after using either the herb or Zostrix cream. Cayenne may be kind to your stomach lining, but rub into your eyes and you've got an entirely different story.

Capsicum has long been used as a food spice and an aid to digestion, red chilies or cayenne peppers were once thought to aggravate stomach ulcers. This fear has been discounted by researchers who became excited by studies that indicated that capsicum could help prevent the formation of dangerous blood clots. Now new research is focusing on this spices ability to act as an anti-inflammatory agent, and aid in controlling pain.

Researchers in Thailand first noticed that people who consume large amounts of red chili peppers experienced a lower incidence of thrombo-embolism, or potentially dangerous blood clots. Scientists then looked at the medical records of countries where hot spicy foods were regularly consumed, and found that people who eat a diet high in red peppers experience a much lower incidence of blood clotting diseases. Scientists have now concluded that capsicum does indeed possess fibrinolytic activity, meaning that it is able to break down blood clots.

In addition to preventing the formation of blood clots, researchers have also discovered that a topically applied cream containing capsicum could help control some types of chronic skin pains. Now available in the form of a prescription drug called Zostrix, capsicum ointment is applied to the skin to aid in controlling the pain associated with herpes zoster, also known as shingles, as well as neuralgia and postoperative amputation trauma.

The active ingredient in capsicum is a compound called "capsaicin" that functions to deplete 'substance P', which is involved in the transmission of pain from the skin to the spinal cord. By blocking substance P, capsaicin acts as a dramatic and long-lasting anesthetic bringing relief to almost 75 percent of patients tested with the cream. It can take as long as three days from first application to begin to deplete substance P from the peripheral nerves.

Taken internally to aid digestion, red peppers should be consumed slowly to avoid distress. Capsicum and cayenne can also be taken in capsules. Be careful to avoid getting capsicum products in the eyes, as this can be extremely painful.