15 Natural Herbs for Those with Bipolar Disorder Photo credit: bigstock.com If you or someone you love suffers from bipolar disorder (manic depression), then you know what a difficult disease this is. It varies from person to person, with some having what is considered to be mild episodes, while other experience frequent and life threatening episodes. If you are looking for alternatives to the typical fare of prescription medications, you will find that for this particular disorder, they are few and far between. Many herbs have been used throughout the ages to treat this problem, but there has been almost no scientific research done in this area. Of all the herbs on the planet, nervines are among the strongest, so they are the most likely to cause side effects or interactions with other medications. The best 15 natural herbs and other natural means of helping those with bipolar disorder are: 1. Sometimes called Black Snakeroot. 2. 3. This is a traditional herbal remedy for depression. 4. 5. Continue to Page 2 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Smoking To Cure Lung Infections and For Good Lung Health Some readers will be surprised by our endorsement of any herb that is to be smoked; especially one that is called a "tobacco". We endorse the medicinal use of Indian tobacco (lobelia inflata). Smoking truly natural substances is not necessarily harmful. Even real tobacco does not need to be dangerous, but it is made dangerous by the industry. Commercially-made cigarettes are harmful because of the additives, the glues, the radioactive fertilizers, and the papers that are used -- not the tobaccos themselves. Both the seeds and the dried leaves of Indian tobacco contain alkaloids which yield its effects. Indian tobacco has been traditionally used to effectively suppress common colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Indian tobacco has been used by many people who were trying to quit smoking, but it was banned in such products in 1993 by the F.D.A, even though the agency had no legitimate jurisdiction. Researchers have been studying the effects of Indian tobacco on amphetamine addictions.
Oregano - TruthWiki The warm, balsamic and aromatic flavor of oregano makes it the perfect addition to Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. This popular herb whose name means “mountain joy” is available throughout the year. Oregano is known botanically as Origanum vulgare and is called wild marjoram in many parts of Europe since it is closely related to the herb that we know as sweet marjoram. Health BenefitsDescriptionHistoryHow to Select and StoreTips for Preparing and CookingHow to EnjoyIndividual ConcernsNutritional ProfileOregano can help prevent a host of illnesses, including metabolic syndrome and cancerOregano ComponentsAnti-Cancer PropertiesAntiseptic QualitiesMaking TeaAntioxidantsAntibacterial PropertiesAnti-Fungal AbilitiesOther Healing PropertiesReferences Health Benefits You may have seen a bottle marked “oil of oregano” in a health food store. An Effective Anti-Bacterial Potent Anti-Oxidant Activity A Nutrient-Dense Spice Our food ranking system qualified oregano as a good source of fiber. History
Natural Plant Bandages are Antibacterial and Better than Store Bought Photo credit: bigstock.com Many people don’t realize that Mother Nature provided us with common herbs, fruits, and plants that have their own antibacterial compounds to fight bacteria and other pathogens. Did you think that man created antibiotics? Crushing herbs or plants into a liquid or using them to make a natural salve is the best option. Not every plant grows in all areas, but chances are good that a few of these will either grow in your locale, or you will be able to grow them in a greenhouse or a sheltered garage arranged with UV lights. It’s true that when most people get a small cut or burn, they just whip out that box of plastic bandages and never give it a second thought. Continue to Page 2 The top plants that can be used for their anti-bacterial or antibiotic properties are: Aloe veraThymeTarragonBasilHorseradish rootBlueberryMarsh WoundwortWoolly Lamb’s Ear In particular, woolly lamb’s ear has been used for hundreds of years as a natural dressing or bandage. References:
untitled The Top 8 Cooling Spices for Summer 12th August 2015 By Dr. Edward Group Guest Writer for Wake Up World To keep the body cool during the summer months, ancient Indian medicine (Ayurveda) recommends consuming spices that promote cooling. Spices are one of the most potent plant foods in terms of antioxidants and bioactive compounds, and according to Ayruveda’s 5,000 year old food philosophy, there are plenty of everyday spices that can even help cool the body when outside temperatures become unbearable. Here are the top 8 cooling spices, according to Ayruveda, to include in your diet to feel fresh and comfortable during the summer heat. 1. Mint is more than just a remedy for bad breath; in fact, this perennial herb is an excellent cooling spice. 2. Although you may not even know what a fennel seed is, this readily available spice is thought to be highly cooling for those hot summer months. 3. Fresh cilantro leaves have been used in Thailand and Mexico for thousands of years. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. What are your favorite summer spices?
Usnea - an herbal remedy for strep throat and staph infections. Usnea is a lichen rather than a plant. Lichens are unusual combinations of algae and fungi that work together as a single organism. It can be found growing on old trees in the cool damp of the forest. Key Medicinal Uses Internally Usnea aids the immune system when used in a tonic. It can help those suffering from chronic fatigue, herpes, HIV and other conditions with a depressed immune system. Externally Usnea can be used as a mouthwash, a gargle or in lozenges to aid inflammation of the oral mucus membranes. Other Uses It is used as a fixative in perfumes that have a mossy note to them. Herbs to Combine/Supplement Usnea combines well with Echinacea as an immune booster. Parts Used Lichen The dried lichen strands are used medicinally. Cautions Topical use can cause dermatitis in some users. Preparation and Dosage Usnea is commonly found commercially in capsules and tincture, or you can make your own. Usnea Herbal Remedies Top
20 of the Best Antiviral and Antibacterial Herbs and Plants Ever! Photo credit: bigstock.com Depending on your age, your mother or grandmother most likely used some type of herb or plants to help heal you when you were sick without you realizing it, or perhaps you just didn’t appreciate it at the time. For many of us, it’s not until we have our own children that we realize that we don’t want to put chemicals and other toxic things into those precious little bodies. Before using these antiviral or antibacterial herbs, you would be wise to consult a herbalist for exact dosing instructions as everyone’s body, especially children’s, are unique and different herbs should be consumed in different quantities and in different ways, such as teas or tinctures. If you are under a doctor’s care or if you are taking prescription medication, always consult your doctor before beginning any herbal program. 1. Yes, we are talking about the same little herb you have in your kitchen. 2. Yep, this is another herb that you most likely have in your kitchen. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
How to Make Medicinal Vinegars & Oxymels Medicinal vinegars (Vinegar Extracts) have been around since ancient times, and were an excellent way to preserve and dispense herbs before distilled spirits were known about. While the advantages of using vodka or brandy to make your herbal tinctures are many – including greater potency and longer shelf life, there are those who wish to avoid alcohol for personal reasons or due to the higher cost, making vinegar extracts ideal for them to create. Vinegar extracts (also known as “aceta”) are weaker than alcohol based tinctures, so the required dose is higher. And, while vinegar won’t draw out as many of the beneficial components of an herb that alcohol will, it does excel at drawing minerals and vitamins from a plant. Add those extra nutrients to the already established benefits of apple cider vinegar and you have a very acceptable option for your herbal remedies toolbox. Making a Vinegar Extract: According to my well loved book, Making Plant Medicine Dosing a Vinegar Extract:
Ayurveda: Ayurvedic Herbology One of the main methods of treatment in Ayurvedic medicine is through the healing properties of plants and other substances. This style of Herbolism is based on principles that have been past down for a myriad of centuries. The wisdom of the vedic sages is at the foundation of this “Science of Life”. First shared as an oral tradition, the reliability of the knowledge has been substantiated by the generations that have benefited from its use. It is built upon the understanding of the five elemental theory (space, air, fire, water, and earth) and from this the three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha). At first glance, one may think that it would be difficult to truly grasp the main concepts of Ayurvedic Herbology. In order to understand the dynamics of this herbal system , we will begin with the three properties - Rasa, Virya, and Vipaka. RASA means taste. VIRYA is determined by what effect an herb has on the temperature of the body - is it heating or cooling. Dr.
Sarsaparilla Benefits & Information Sarsaparilla is the common name for Smilax ornata (formally smilax regelii), which has been used medicinally to treat everything from chronic pain to toe fungus. It has likely been used for thousands of years by indigenous tribes of South America but was first introduced to Europe near the end of the Dark Ages. Today, it is still a popular supplement ingredient and medicinal treatment for a wide variety of internal and external health conditions. Description of the Plant This prickly vine is native to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. A sarsaparilla root typically measures between six and feet in length. Uses Sarsaparilla root is globally recognized for medicinal properties. Sarsaparilla first came to Europe in the 1400s as a medicine discovered in South America and brought back via boat. Sarsaparilla is also consumed for pleasure in drink and pickled form. Today, sarsaparilla roots is available most readily in health food stores. Active Ingredients Preparation
12 Herbs to Curb Heart Palpitations - NaturalON Photo credit: bigstock.com Although some people experience rapid heartbeats, missed heartbeats, and even irregular heartbeats, these are not signs of true heart trouble, but rather a symptom from another underlying problem such as hormone fluctuations, certain prescription drugs, anxiety or panic attacks, excessive caffeine consumption, menopause, or even an overactive thyroid gland. If you are experiencing irregular heartbeats, be certain that you check with your doctor or cardiologist first to be sure that you do not have heart disease or any other type of heart issue. Once your doctor has given you the OK, check out this list of the top 12 herbs that are known to help calm those heart palpitations that are caused by things other than heart disease or heart malfunctions. 1. Many heart palpitations are caused by anxiety or panic attacks. 2. This is a great old fashioned herb that will lower a fast pulse and control the sudden thumping of the heart. 3. Continue to Page 2
'Miracle Grass' Encourages Longevity While Dispelling Disease By Carolanne Wright Contributing Writer for Wake Up World More potent than ginseng, jiaogulan is a powerful antidote to aging, cancer, cardiovascular disease, stress and fatigue. It even helps to maintain proper weight. Known as an immortality elixir, this herb has been used for centuries throughout Asia. First recorded in the Materia Medica for the Salvation of Starvation during the Ming Dynasty in China, jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) was the go-to herb for a variety of ailments. The secret to longevity and absence of disease The Chinese mountainous region of Guizhou is famous for its sheer number of centenarians. Jiaogulan is also recognized as a general health elixir that supports endurance and strength while alleviating fatigue. Formidable anti-cancer tonic Jiaogulan works on several levels to prevent and heal cancer. Incomparable adaptogen Adaptogens by their very nature have no side effects and only restore balance where needed. Article Sources Previous Artilce By Carolanne