Sage Plant - Sage Tea - Sage Benefits

Sage Herb Picture

Botanical Name: Salvia officinalis

The many varieties of common sage are all shrub-like herbs with rough, wrinkled leaves. Sage is a perennial herb with gray-green, pebble like, textured leaves in a long, oval shape. It grows wild in the Mediterranean regions like Britain, Europe, Spain, Turkey, USA. Sage is also widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal properties.

Sage Benefits

New research suggests that sage may restore mental function and improve memory. The herb acts on the cortex of the brain thereby eliminating mental exhaustion and improving concentration.

Sage Tea

Preparation of sage tea: It can be prepared by pouring a cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried sage leaves with lid on. It should be infused for few minutes before straining and sweetening with honey, if desired. In case of fresh leaves, a tablespoon of chopped sage leaves can be used and the tea be prepared similarly.

Sage Tea Benefits: Sage tea is beneficial in coping with stress. It is astringent, sedative and expels gas; it clears the respiratory tract, makes a good gargle for sore throats and helps overcome colds.

Sage is useful for night sweats as it reduces sweating. It also reduces milk flow in nursing mothers prior to weaning, prevents the formation of kidney stones by dissolving residues of uric acid, and regularizes menstruation. An infusion of sage can be applied to the scalp to reduce dandruff.

Precautions: In high doses, sage can overstimulate and should be avoided by anyone who suffers from epilepsy. It should also be avoided in early pregnancy.

Agrimony Herb Uses and Medicinal Properties

Agrimony is not commonly used today, but has its place in traditional herbal medicine.

This herb is safe for use for minor ailments in most healthy people. Like most herb simples, the uses to which it is put are remarkably varied. The English use it to make a delicious "spring" or "diet" drink for purifying the blood. It is considered especially useful as a tonic for aiding recovery from winter colds, fevers, and diarrhea. Agrimony contains tannin and a volatile essential oil.

As Agrimony also possesses an astringent action, it is frequently used in alternative medicine as an herbal mouthwash and gargle ingredient, and is applied externally in the form of a lotion to minor sores and ulcers. Agrimony has also been recommended, as a strong decoction, to cure sores, blemishes, and pimples.

Agrimony is called XIAN HE CAO in Chinese herbal medicine and is used to stop bleeding.
- Dr. Michael Tierrra L.Ac., O.M.D., The Way of Chinese Herbs

Caution: This is an astringent herb, do not use if constipated. Do not use internally during pregnancy without discussing with your obstetrician.

Habitat and Description

Agrimony can be found growing extensively throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States. A hardy perennial, its natural habitat is woods and fields, but it takes to cultivation easily. Agrimonies have one to two foot branchy stems covered with a fine, silky down and terminate in spikes of yellow flowers. Both the flowers and the notched leaves give off a faint characteristic lemony scent when crushed. After the flowers fade they give place to tiny clinging "burrs" which will quickly adhere to your clothing if you brush by an it plant in a hedgerow.

How to grow Agrimony

For garden growing, give Agrimony sun or partial sun and regular watering, a plant from seed or propagate by root division in spring or fall. Gather the herb in summer while the flowers are in bloom.

Harvesting Information

Agrimony is usually common enough to harvest freely in the wild, as long as you take only a small portion from any given area. Tie in small bundles and hang in a dark, dry place for a few days to a week depending on temperature. Or place small amounts in large paper bags. Dry herbs in well ventilated areas away from smoke, pets, and rodents. Harvest Agrimony seeds in late summer or early fall, and plant right away or store in freezer.

History and Folklore

Witches used it in spells to dispel negative energies, and to ward off hexes. Agrimony was said to cause a deep sleep. When placed beneath a mans head this sleep would last until it was removed. This passage is from an old English medical manuscript:

If it be leyd under mann's heed,
He shal sleepyn as he were deed;
He shal never drede ne wakyn
Till fro under his heed it be takyn.'

Author Jessica Houdret says The Anglo Saxons included Agrimony in charms and dubious preparations of blood and pounded frogs.

Herbal Tea Recipe

Agrimony Herb Tea: Infuse 1 teaspoon dried Agrimony root, leaves, or flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain and flavor with honey and a little licorice root if desired. Take up to 1 cup per day. Said to be a good blood purifier.

Bach Flower Remedies : Agrimony

Homeopathic Remedy for: "The jovial, cheerful, humorous people who love peace and are distressed by argument or quarrel, to avoid which they will agree to give up much. Though generally they have troubles and are tormented and restless and worried in mind or in body, they hide their cares behind their humour and jesting and are considered very good friends to know. They often take alcohol or drugs in excess, to stimulate themselves and help themselves bear their trials with cheerfulness."

Natural Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, formerly called impotence, is the inability to obtain an adequate erection for satisfactory sexual activity. It's more common in men over 65, but it can occur at any age.

Natural Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

Here are five natural remedies that are used for erectile dysfunction.

1) L-Arginine

L-argi nine is an amino acid that the body uses to m ake nitric oxi de, a substance signals smooth muscle surrounding blood vessels to relax, which dilates the blood vessels and increases blood flow. Relaxation of smooth muscle in the penis allows for e nhanced blood flow, leading to an erection.

L-arginine is found naturally in foods such as meat, dairy, poultry and fish. It is also available as oral L-arginine supplements, which some product manufacturers market as a "natural Viagra").

There have only been two studies to date, however, evaluating the effectiveness of L-arginine for erectile dysfunction.

One study involved 50 men who took L-arginine (5 grams a day) or a placebo. After six weeks, significantly more men taking L-arginine experienced an improvement in sexual function compared with men taking the placebo. Interestingly, it only benefited men who had initially low levels of nitric oxide.

Another study using a smaller dose of L-arginine and a shorter treatment duration fo und no benefit with L-arginine use. The study involved 32 men with erectile dysfunction who took oral L-arginine supplements (500 milligrams three times per day) or a placebo for 17 days. Oral L-arginine was no better than the placebo.

Side effects may include digestive complaints. High dosees of L-arginine may stimulate the body's production of gastrin, a hormone that increases stomach acid. For this reason, L-arginine may be harmful for individuals with ulcers and people taking drugs that are hard on the stomach.

L-arginine may also alter potassium levels in the body, especially in people with liver disease. It should not be taken by people who are on medications that alter potassium levels, such as potassium sparing diuretics and ACE inhibitors.

2) Propionyl-L-Carnitine

One study examined the use of two forms of carnitine, propionyl-L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine in 96 men who with erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery. One group were given a placebo, another group took propionyl-L-carnitine (2 grams per day) plus acetyl-L-carnitine (2 grams per day) and sildenafil (Viagra) when needed, and the third group used Viagra alone.

Propionyl-L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine were found to enhance the effectiveness of sildenafil, and result in improved erectile function, sexual intercourse satisfaction, orgasm, and general sexual well-being compared to Viagra alone.

Another study examined the effectiveness of propionyl-L-carnitine supplements plu s sildenafil in men with erectile dysfunction and diabetes who were previously unresponsive to Viagra alone.

Participants in the study received either propionyl-L-carnitine (two grams per day) plus Viagra (50 milligrams twice a week) or Viagra alone. After 24 weeks, propionyl-L-carnitine plus Viagra was significantly more effective than Viagra alone.

3) Gingko

The herb ginkgo is used for erectile dysfunction, particularly in people who experience sexual dysfunction as a side effect of antidepressant drugs. It appears to relax smooth mu scle and enhance blood flow in the penis.

In one study of 60 men with erectile dysfunction, there was a 50 percent success rate after six months of ginkgo treatment. Two additional studies, however, found that ginkgo was no better than a placebo.

4) Zinc

Siginificant depletion of the mineral zinc, associated with long-term use of diuretics, diabetes, digestive disorders, and certain kidney and liver diseases, has been shown to lead to erectile dysfunction.

5) Ashwagandha

The herb ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is sometimes called Indian Ginseng because it is thought to have similar effects on the body. It is

thought to increase energy, stamina, and sexual function. No studies, however, have examined whether it is effective for erectile dysfunction in humans.

Side effects of ashwagandha may include drowsiness. It should not be combined with sedative drugs.

Yohimbe (Not Recommended)

The bark of the west African yohimbe tree is a source of yohimbine, a compound that has been found to stimulate blood flow to the penis, increase libido, and decrease the period between ejaculations.

Yohimbe is not recommended, however, because it is potentially dangerous, even in small doses. Side effects may include dizziness, anxiety, nausea, a severe drop in blood pressure, abdominal pain, fatigue, hallucinations, and paralysis.

Ginkgo Biloba, Memory and Stroke Risk

Ginkgo Biloba is one of the most popular supplements. It is used to improve memory and prevent cognitive problems such as dementia. As the population ages, researchers are looking for ways to help keep the minds of older adults healthy. One of the possibilities is ginkgo biloba.

Ginkgo Biloba and Memory Loss

Researchers enrolled 118 people over age 85 with no memory or other cognitive problems in a study, published in 2008 in the journal Neurology, to find out the impact of ginkgo biloba on memory and dementia. Half of the people took a ginkgo biloba supplement three times a day, and the other half took a placebo. Researchers followed up with them for three years. Over the course of the study, 21 people developed mild memory problems; 14 of those people were taking the placebo, and seven were taking to ginkgo extract. But it's not all good news for ginkgo. The difference between the ginkgo and placebo groups was not statistically significant. In other words, the fact that the placebo group had more cases of memory problems could have been just random change.

Dosage and Adherence in Ginkgo Biloba Supplementation

The researchers also found that some of the people in the ginkgo biloba group were not following dosage directions. When the people who were not taking their ginkgo biloba three times daily were removed from the analysis, the remaining ginkgo biloba takers had 68% less risk of developing mild memory problems over three years.

Ginkgo Biloba and Stroke Risk

But then there’s some bad news again: The group taking the ginkgo biloba extract had more strokes and mini-strokes than the placebo group. Researchers concluded that more research needs to be done to better understand the benefits and risks of ginkgo biloba and brain health.

Should I Take Ginkgo Biloba?

Right now, it doesn’t seem like a good idea. There could be something to the claims that ginkgo biloba can improve memory (or at least slow memory decline), but the evidence isn’t strong enough, and the possible increase in stroke risk is just too high. There are also multiple forms of ginkgo biloba in the marketplace. Until researchers figure out which forms are harmful and in what dosage, it seems best to stay away. Instead of looking for a pill, consider these mental fitness techniques to keep your brain sharp.

Ginkgo biloba

What is Gingko Biloba?

Alternate names: Maidenhair tree, Kew tree, Japanese silver apricot

Ginkgo is one of the oldest living tree species. The extract of ginkgo leaves is used medicinally in North America, where it's one of the most popular medicinal herbs, and many other countries around the world. In traditional Chinese medicine, the seeds of the ginkgo tree are used.

Why Do People Use Ginkgo?

• To improve mental function
  
• Alzheimer's disease
  
• Age-related memory loss
  
• Macular degeneration
  
• Sexual dysfunction
  
• To enhance blood circulation

Ginkgo leaves are believed to contain compounds that thin blood and help to improve muscle tone in the walls of blood vessels. This may enhance blood flow.

What are the Safety Concerns?

Constituents in ginkgo leaves may affect blood clotting, so ginkgo leaf extracts shouldn't be used by people with bleeding disorders. People with epilepsy (or anyone with a history of seizures) should avoid ginkgo, because it may increase the frequency of seizures.

Ginkgo leaf products may affect blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should only be used under the supervision of a health care provider.

The safety of ginkgo in pregnant or nursing women and children isn't known.

What are the Side Effects of Ginkgo?

Side effects of ginkgo leaf include excessive bleeding. Rarely, seizures have been reported in people using either the ginkgo leaf or seed. Other side effects include digestive problems, headaches, allergic skin reactions, or muscle weakness.

People should not consume fresh ginkgo seeds. Roasted ginkgo seeds may cause diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, vomiting, or allergic skin reactions. Side effects of fresh ginkgo seeds or over 10 roasted ginkgo seeds may include difficulty breathing, seizures, unconsciousness and death.

Possible Drug Interactions

Ginkgo can increase the effect of blood-thinners (antiplatelet or anti-clotting drugs), such as clopidogrel, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, and aspirin, which may result in uncontrolled bleeding or hemorrhage. Certain herbs, such as danshen, devil's claw, eleuthero, garlic, ginger, horse chestnut, papain, red clover, and saw palmetto, can also increase the risk of bleeding if combined with ginkgo.

Ginkgo has been found to interfere with the metabolism of drugs processed by an enzyme called cyp3A4. Ask your doctor to check if you are taking medications of this type.

Ginkgo may increase the risk of seizures if combined with other drugs or herbs that do the same, such as antidepressants, bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban), certain antibiotics such as penicillin and cephalosporins, Corticosteroids, fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic), theophylline, methylphenidate (e.g. Concerta, Ritalin), drugs that suppress the immune system, such as azathioprine and cyclosporine, borage, evening primrose, and wormwood.

Ginkgo shouldn't be used with the drug cyclosporine (used to suppress the immune system), because it has been found to decrease the effect of that drug. Theoretically, ginkgo may have the same effect with other immunosuppressant drugs.

Ginkgo may interact with insulin and other drugs for diabetes, such as metformin (Glucophage), glyburide (Glynase), glimepiride (Amaryl), and glipizide (Glucotrol XL). It shouldn't be used with medications to prevent seizures.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil Cure Thyroid

The May 20, 2003 issue of the weekly newsstand publication, Woman’s World, featured a cover story "The New Thyroid Cure." Since that article hit the newsstand, I was deluged with emails from people who want to know if what the article seems to claim is true: Can coconut oil "cure" your hypothyroidism and ensure rapid weight loss? In May, I asked holistic physician Dr. Ken Woliner to respond to this question, which he did in his article,Is Coconut Oil Realy a Thyroid Cure?. A Holistic Physicion looks at the question. There are some practitioners and experts who believe that coconut oil is extremely beneficial for the thyroid, and Dr. Bruce Fife is one of the more well-known figures who has spoken out in favor of coconut oil. Dr. Woliner discusses Dr. Fife in his article, and here Dr. Fife offers his thoughts on coconut oil for the thyroid, and a rebuttal to Dr. Woliner’s position.

In May of this year, Woman’s World published a cover story titled "The New Thyroid Cure."It described how protein and coconut oil can help improve thyroid function. In response to this article many people started asking if coconut oil can really improve thyroid function and promote weight loss. Mary Shomon published an article written by Ken Woliner, MD to answer this question. Although I’m sure Dr. Woliner is a competent physician with a great deal of experience treating thyroid problems, this doesn’t make him an expert on coconut oil. Judging from his article, he apparently knows little about the relationship between coconut oil and thyroid function, and frankly, few people do. Unfortunately, his article contained many inaccurate and misleading statements.

Many readers of recognized the faults in Dr. Woliner’s article and asked me to write a response to clear up any confusion his article may have caused and to answer the question: is coconut oil really a thyroid cure?

To keep this article brief, I’m going to direct my remarks specifically to the statements made by Dr. Woliner in relation to coconut oil and thyroid function. Let start by saying that I agree with Dr. Woliner in his recommendation not to take what you read in Woman’s World as medical advice. Woman’s World is a weekly newspaper. As with any newspaper, articles are written by reporters. They report news. The coconut oil thyroid connection is news. The problem is that reporters don’t always report the news accurately, especially when it comes to medicine. The Woman’s World article, as Dr. Woliner pointed out, made it sound like if you simply added coconut oil to your diet it would cure hypothyroidism. This is not true.

Low thyroid function has many causes and no one therapy can cure all thyroid related diseases. Coconut oil is just part of the solution. For some people coconut oil may be of little help. However, when used properly and in conjunction with other things it can have a very significant effect on the most common forms of hypothyroidism.

Dr. Woliner seems to favor the use of medication in treating hypothyroidism. Like a true allopathic physician bent on suppressing natural approaches to medicine, he criticizes coconut oil and me personally to support his position. He infers that my sole purpose is to profit off coconut oil sales. I have never met the man, yet he claims to know all about my financial affairs, stating that I derive all my income from the coconut oil industry. Where he got that idea I don’t know, but it’s false. I do not work for the coconut oil industry nor am I paid by or associated with any coconut oil company. All of my income is derived from writing and speaking.

Ginger

Health benefits of ginger

Ginger has been used as a traditional medicine in Asia and India since ancient times.

What Is Ginger?

For thousands of years, herbalists have used the root of the ginger plant to relieve stomach troubles. With its natural anti-inflammatory effects, ginger is also a common remedy for inflammation-related health problems like rheumatoid arthritis.

The Health Benefits of Ginger

A number of studies have supported ginger's stomach-soothing effects. In addition to easing post-surgery nausea and vomiting, the herb appears to reduce motion sickness and morning sickness . What's more, a 2009 study of 644 cancer patients found that taking ginger supplements decreased post-chemotherapy nausea by 40%.

Ginger may also help alleviate chrronic pain , possibly by lowering your levels of hormones that induce inflammation. A study published in 2005, for instance, suggests that ginger could lessen pain more effectively than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

In lab tests, scientists have showed that ginger extract may slow the growth of colorectal and ovarian cancer cells, as well as protect against alzheimer's disease . However, scientists have yet to confirm these findings in studies on humans.

Ginger Tea

Sipping ginger tea can help calm an upset stomach, as well as ease congestion when you've got a cold .

Learn how to make ginger tea .

More Ginger Recipes

You can also whip up your own crystallized ginger and ginger ale (both of which can treat nausea and motion sickness), or add fresh ginger to your soups and stir-fries.

Ginger Supplements

If you're going to take ginger in supplement form, look for ginger capsules or powders at your health food store or an online shop that specializes in herbal remedies.

Ginger's Side Effects

Since ginger acts as a blood thinner, it's important to discontinue use at least two weeks before surgery and let your doctor know you've been using the herb.

In some cases, ginger may cause heartburn.

Guarana

Guarana is a plant that grows in South America, primarily in northern Brazil. Crushed guarana seeds are used in herbal supplements.

What is guarana?

Other Names: Paullinia cupana, Brazilian cocoa

Guarana (pronounced gwa-ra-NAH) is a creeping shrub native to Venezuela and northern Brazil in the Amazon rain forest. The fruit are small, bright-red, and contains black seeds.

Guarana seeds are rich in caffeine and contain up to 4-8% caffeine, more than coffee beans, which contain approximately 1–2.5% caffeine. The seeds are also rich in tannins and xanthine alkaloids theophylline and theobromine.

Why do people use guarana?

Guaraná is reputed to be a stimulant and increase mental alertness, fight fatigue, and i ncrease stamina and physical endurance.

Guarana drinks and sodas are very popular in Brazil (where g uarana is considered to be a health tonic), almost as po pular as cola-based so das. Sweet, carbonated guarana drinks include the popular brands Guaraná Antarctica, Guaraná Brahma, and Kuat (from Coca-Cola Company).

In North America, guarana has recently become a popular ingredient in energy drinks and teas.

Guarana is one of the richest sources of caffeine, containing up to three times the amount of caffeine as coffee. Unlike coffee, the amount of caffeine doesn't have to be listed on guarana drinks.

In addition to its stimulant properties, guarana is also a popular ingredient in herbal weight loss pills. Some evidence indicates that guarana may suppress appetite and increase fat-burning.

What research has been done on guarana?

An animal study examined the effect of 14 days of guarana supplementation on fat metabolism in sedentary and trained rats and found that the guarana's fat-burning effect is due to the caffeine content. Decaffeinated guarana extracts had no effect on lipid metabolism.

A Journal of Psychopharmacology study found that guarana improved memory, mood and alertness at low (37.5 mg, 75 mg) vs. higher (150 mg, 300 mg) doses. However, another study examined the long-term use of guarana, caffeine, or placebo on the cognition of 45 older individuals. There were no significant effects of guarana on cognition.

Safety

Guarana should not be used by people who are sensitive to caffeine or xanthines.

People with heart conditions, diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy, overactive thyroid, anxiety, insomnia, and kidney disease should only use guarana under the supervision of their doctor.

The safety of guarana in pregnant or nursing women has not been established. Since many doctors recommend limiting caffeine during pregnancy and nursing, guarana should be avoided because caffeine content differs from product to product and it isn't possible for consumers to accurately estimate how much caffeine they are consuming through guarana.

Guarana should not be taken with any products containing ephedra. Serious adverse effects have been reported with this combination. It may increase the risk of stroke, hemorrhage, myocardial infarction, and sudden death and has been associated with increases in heart rate, blood pressure, and potentially harmful changes in glucose and potassium levels.

A report published in the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy described the case of a heart rhythm abnormality called premature ventricular contraction associated with two herbal supplements that both contained large doses of guarana.

Initial symptoms of guarana overdose include difficulty urinating, vomiting, and abdominal cramps and spasms. If you suspect a guarana overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Common Forms

Guarana can be found in powder or pill form. It is an ingredient in energy drinks, sodas, and other beverages.

Garlic

As a cures for colds


Garlic is one of the more popular home cures for colds. Many cultures have a home remedy for the cold using garlic, whether it’s chicken soup with lots of garlic, a drink made with raw crushed garlic, or if it just involves eating raw garlic.

The cold-fighting compound in garlic is thought to be allicin, which has demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal properties. Allicin is what gives garlic its distinctive hot flavor. To maximize the amount of allicin, fresh garlic should be chopped or crushed and it should be raw. It’s also available in pill form.

In a study involving 146 people, participants received either a garlic supplement or a placebo for 12 weeks between November and February. People who took garlic reduced the risk of catching a cold by more than half. The study also found that garlic reduced the recovery time in people who caught a cold. More research is needed to corroborate these results.

Garlic does have some possible side effects and safety concerns. Bad breath and body odor are perhaps the most common side effects, however, dizziness, sweating, headache, fever, chills and runny nose have also been reported. Large amounts may irritate the mouth or result in indigestion. Garlic supplements should avoided by people with bleeding disorders, two weeks before or after surgery, or by those taking "blood-thinning" medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or supplements believed to affect blood clotting such as vitamin E, garlic or ginkgo.

Common Cold Remedies

The common cold is an infection of your nose and throat caused by viruses. We typically catch between two and four colds a year.

Symtoms (see photo below)of the common cold, which usually appear one to three days after being exposed to a cold virus, include:

• Runny nose
  
• Cough
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Sore or itchy throat
  
• Sneezing
  
• Watery eyes
  
• Mild headache
  
• Mild fatigue or body aches
  
• Fever less than 102 degrees

• Cold Remedies

  Here's a look at some of the more popular natural remedies for the prevention and treatment of the common cold.

• Zinc Lozenges
  

  Zinc is an essential mineral that's required by more than 300 enzymes in our bodies. It’s found naturally in foods such as meat, liver, seafood and eggs. The full recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 12 mg for women and 15 mg for men, an amount found in a typical multivitamin.

  Zinc lozenges are often found in health stores, online and in some drug stores marketed as cold remedies. A number of studies have found that zinc helped to reduce the duration of cold symptoms, especially if people started taking it within 24 hours after the appearance of cold symptoms. Zinc also reduced the severity of symptoms and decreased the duration of symptoms by three to four days. The problem is that many of these zinc studies have had flaws, so better-quality studies are needed.

  Zinc lozenges may work by blocking the replication of the cold virus (preventing it from spreading) or by impairing the ability of the cold virus to enter cells in nose and throat.

  The zinc lozenges used in the studies contained a minimum of 13.3 mg of elemental zinc. The lozenges were taken every two hours during the day, starting immediately after the onset of cold symptoms. The studies that found zinc to be ineffective may have used a dose of zinc that was too low or have had taste-enhancing compounds known to decrease the effectiveness of zinc, such as citric acid (found in citrus fruit), tartaric acid, sorbitol or mannitol.

  Zinc lozenges usually contain either zinc gluconate or zinc acetate, providing 3.3 mg of elemental zinc in each lozenge. It's typically recommended that people take one lozenge every two to four hours during the day for a maximum of six to 12 lozenges a day.

  Side effects of zinc may include nausea and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Zinc lozenges are not recommended for the prevention of colds or for long-term use, because zinc supplements in excess of 15 mg per day may interfere with the absorption of the mineral copper and result in a copper deficiency.

Cold symptoms

Colds are caused by a virus and can occur year-round. The common cold generally involves a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Other symptoms include sore throat, cough, and headache. A cold usually lasts about 7 days, with perhaps a few lingering symptoms such as a cough for another week.

Garlic as a natural remedies for high blood pressure

In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials of garlic supplements, three trials showed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure and four in diastolic blood pressure. Researchers concluded that garlic powder supplement may be of clinical use in patients with mild high blood pressure.

Garlic supplements should only be used under the supervision of a qualified health practitioner. Garlic can thin the blood (reduce the ability of blood to clot) similar to aspirin. Garlic may interact with many drugs and supplements such as the prescription "blood-thinners" drugs such as Coumadin (warfarin) or Trental (pentoxifylline), aspirin, vitamin E, gingko. It is usually recommended that people taking garlic stop in the weeks before and after any type of surgery.

What is High Blood Pressure?

Also known as: Hypertension

According to the American Heart Association, nearly one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. But nearly one-third of those people don't know they have high blood pressure, because it's a silent disease. People can have high blood pressure for years without experiencing symptoms or knowing they have it.

The upper or first number in a blood pressure reading is the systolic pressure and the lower or second number is called the diastolic pressure. According to National heart, lung and blood institute guidelines.

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg.
  
• Prehypertension is systolic pressure that's between 120 to 139 or diastolic pressure between 80 and 89.
  
• Stage 1 hypertension is systolic pressure between 140 to 159 or diastolic pressure between 90 and 99.
  
• Stage 2 hypertension is systolic pressure higher than 160 or diastolic pressure of 100 or higher.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

High blood pressure usually doesn't cause any symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms associated with high blood pressure can include:

• Dizziness or dizzy spells
  
• Headache
  
• Nosebleeds

Causes of High Blood Pressure

In most cases of high blood pressure, the American Heart Association says there is no one identifiable cause. This kind of high blood pressure is called primary hypertension or essential hypertension. It is usually a combination of factors, such as:

• Weight. The greater your body mass, the more pressure there is on your artery walls. That's because more blood is produced to supply oxygen and nutrients to tissues in your body.
  
• Activity level. Lack of physical activity tends to increase heart rate, which forces your heart to work harder with each contraction.
  
• Tobacco use. Chemicals in cigarettes and tobacco can damage artery walls.
  
• Sodium intake. Excessive sodium in the diet can result in fluid retention and high blood pressure, especially in people sensitive to sodium.
  
• Potassium intake. Low potassium can result in elevated sodium in cells, because the two balance one another.
  
• Stress. Stress can raise blood pressure.
  
• Alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake can, over time, increase the risk of heart disease.
  
• Age. The risk of high blood pressure increases as you get older.
  
• Family history. High blood pressure often runs in families.

High blood pressure can also be caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, thyroid disease, adrenal gland disease, and the use of certain drugs, such as oral contraceptives, or herbs such as licorice. This type of high blood pressure is called secondary hypertension.

Untreated hypertension

Hypertension is a disorder characterized by chronically high blood pressure. It must be monitored, treated and controlled by medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.

Asian Viagra

What is Tongkat Ali

Other Names: Eurycoma longifolia, Longjack

Tongkat Ali is a tree native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The part of the tree used medicinally is the root.

Why Do People Use Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat Ali was dubbed the "Asian Viagra" in a May 1999 report in the New Sunday Times.

It has been used in Malaysia for many years by men to increase sexual desire, libido, sexual performance and to treat erectile dysfunction.

Tongkat ali appears to work by increasing levels of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is primarily responsible for the growth and development of male reproductive organs, including the penis, testicles, scrotum, prostate, and seminal vesicles. Normal testosterone levels maintain energy level, mood, fertility, and sexual desire.

Because of its testosterone-enhancing properties, tongkat ali is also used by bodybuilders to increase muscle mass and strength.

Safety

Reported side effects include insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness.

Tongkat ali should not be used by pregnant or nursing women or children.

Because tongkat ali increases testosterone levels it should not be used by men with breast cancer or prostate cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or sleep apnea.

Tongkat ali should not be used by people with weakened immune systems as some evidence suggests it may further weaken immune function.

Drug Interactions

Tongkat ali should not be used by people taking immunosuppressant drugs.

It is especially important to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking insulin. Tongkat ali may decrease blood sugar levels.

What is Maca?

Other names: Lepidium meyenii, Peruvian ginseng

Maca is a plant with a radish-like root that is used as a food and for medicinal purposes.

Although maca is unrelated to the ginseng family, it has been dubbed "Peruvian ginseng" because it is used as a folk remedy to increase stamina, energy, and sexual function.

Why Do People Use Maca?

According to folklore, ancient Incan warriors took maca before going off to battle to make them physically strong. However, they were later prohibited from taking it, in order to protect conquered women from their heightened libidos.

One study looked at the effect of 4 months treatment with maca tablets on semen quality in nine adult men. Treatment with maca resulted in increased seminal volume, sperm count, and sperm motility.

A 12-week randomized controlled trial looked at 1,500 mg maca, 3,000 mg maca, or placebo. After 8 weeks, there was an improvement in sexual desire in the men taking maca.

Maca does not appear to affect hormone levels. Serum testosterone and estradiol levels were not different in men treated with maca compared to those who took the placebo. Other studies have found no effect on luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, and 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone.

Safety

No side effects or hazards have been reported and are unknown.

Drug Interactions

No potential interactions have been reported.

Tips for the Home Gardener

Tips for Growing Herbs

􀁗 Most herbs grow best in full sun, although some will take part shade.

􀁗 Plant herbs in soil with good drainage. Herbs will suffer if grown in beds that remain saturated for an extended period of time. To improve drainage of wet soils, use a layer of crushed rocks topped with a mixture of sand and compost under the planting soil.

􀁗 Fertilize plants lightly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Too much fertilizer will damage the flavor quality of your herbs.

􀁗 Mulch tender herbs in winter to protect them from freezing temperatures. Some very tender herbs may not be winter hardy even with protection, and should be over-wintered indoors. Examples include rosemary, sweet bay, and scented geraniums.

􀁗 For best flavor, harvest herbs in the morning after the dew has dried, but before the hot midday sun evaporates their oils.

Uses for Herbs in the Garden

BORDER GARDENING.

Some herbs have attractive flowers, while others have interesting foliage, adding color and texture to the border garden. There are creeping herbs, clumping herbs, and spreading herbs. Experiment with them throughout the garden. Keep in mind that some herbs, such as the mints, tend to be aggressive spreaders and may make better container plants. Herbs with interesting texture include lady’s mantle, lamb’s ears, chives, sage, and fernleaf tansy. Herbs with appealing foliage coloration include wormwood, curry plant, licorice plant, and bronze fennel.

CONTAINER GARDENING.

Many herbs adapt well to containers. Grow them individually or combine them with flowering annuals for added interest. Thyme, licorice plant, sage, and scented geraniums work especially well in containers.

ATTRACTING BUTTERFLIES and HUMMINGBIRDS.

If you are a wildlife lover, consider adding herbs to your garden. Parsley and dill are both larval host plants for butterflies. Bergamot (also known as bee balm or horsemint) and scarlet sage are nectar sources for butterflies and hummingbirds. Catmint (catnip), sage, sweet marjoram, and thyme can all be used to entice butterflies to your garden. Remember—gardeners who like butterflies must also have a soft spot for leaf-munching caterpillars.

Herbs for the Home

Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs offers the following remedies for this age-old question:

FLAVOR.

Homegrown herbs can add a boost of flavor to foods. They can be used fresh in cooking or dried for use throughout the year. Oregano, dill, parsley, basil, thyme, marjoram, borage, savory, and tarragon will add a zest to your summer salads, barbecues, and other dishes. Plant your favorite mint and add it to iced tea or other refreshing summer drinks.
􀁗 Leaves, both fresh and dried, are normally called herbs, while seeds, roots, fruits, flowers or bark are spices.
􀁗 Herbs are more frequently grown in temperate regions, while spices usually hail from the tropics.
If you plan on drying and storing your herbs, harvest them just before they bloom when their leaves are at their prime. Place the cuttings in a dry, shady, well-ventilated spot to dry, or spread them on a cookie sheet in a 150° F oven with the door left ajar. Store the dried herbs in airtight containers in a dark place, as exposure to light can cause flavors and colors to degrade.
􀁗 Herbs are green and often impart a subtler flavor; spices tend to be shades of brown, black, or red with a dramatic, pungent flavor.
For example, consider the multi-purpose plant Coriandrum sativum. Its tangy leaves are referred to as the herb cilantro (Chinese parsley), but its round brown seeds are known as coriander, a spice.

FRAGRANCE.

Any home garden can benefit from the lovely scent of herbs. Herbs with appealing fragrances include lavender, lemon verbena, mint, rosemary, scented geraniums, and sweet woodruff. After harvesting, many herbs can be dried and used in potpourris, simmering pot mixtures, and sachets. To freshen drawers and closets, tie a fragrant mixture of dried herbs into a muslin bag and stash it among your clothes.
FOLK MEDICINE. Before modern medicine, herbs were a main ingredient in many traditional remedies. Today, many people continue to use herbs in this same manner. Common remedies include herbal infusions, which are water-based extracts of herbal plants, and tinctures, which are alcohol-based extracts. Other remedies include bath soaks, compresses, cough syrups, and salves. Beware that many herbs are toxic without proper processing; consult reputable reference sources and your physician before using any herbal preparations.

TEXTILES.

Many plants can be used to make fabric and ropes, with cotton and flax being two well-known examples. Other herbs, such as true indigo, can be distilled to produce natural dyes. Time-honored traditions of using herbs for textiles are still practiced in both mass and home production. Consult natural craft books or web pages for ideas about using herbs for artistic endeavors.

Longwood’s Herb Garden

The Idea Garden boasts a variety of annual and perennial herbs, organized by category of use. Visit the Herb Garden for a living catalog of herbs for a taste of the flavor and charm herbs can add to your home garden. Categories of herbs include textile herbs, culinary herbs, fragrant herbs, and medicinal herbs.

Your Guide Nature Herb Supplements

HERBS

Herbs are garden plants that are grown and harvested for culinary, aromatic, medicinal, and fibrous uses. Plant herbs in your garden for their unmistakable fragrances, attractive textures, appealing colors, and variety of home uses.

As such, there have been countless studies performed on the therapeutic benefits and applications of various herbs and herbal extracts. Much of this research presents strong evidence that taking herbal supplements in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle can be beneficial.

Therefore, many people use natural health supplements to treat various health conditions as well as to promote general well-being.

The problem is, like many other health-related products herbal nutritional supplements are not strictly regulated in the United States. Manufacturers of natural health supplements are not obligated to guarantee the safety, effectiveness or even the true content of their products!

As a result, most dietary supplements do not contain the herbs they claim to. It's hard to believe but it's true!

This is why we have created herbal-supplements-guide.com. Being herbal supplement takers ourselves, we have made it our mission to educate you about herbs and herbal supplements and how they may be helpful to you.

So how do you find a high quality supplement?

Through our extensive research of nutritional supplements and herbal supplement manufacturers, this is what we have discovered:

1) You need to look for a nutritional supplement that is manufactured under strict GMP compliance. These are the same high standards that pharmaceutical drug companies have to comply with.

2) You need to look for a nutritional supplement with standardized herbal extracts. These are the purest extracts available, offering the highest quality active ingredients where all of the therapeutic value comes from.

3) You need to look for a nutritional supplement that is created by a highly credentialed formulator; someone who is qualified to create a supplement with ingredients that work together synergistically in a perfect balance to offer the maximum results.

4) Lastly, each ingredient in any nutritional supplement you buy should be backed by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) which ensures the safety and efficacy of all of the ingredients in the product.

Interestingly, we discovered that it is in fact better to take vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts and other nutrients together rather than on their own.

This has been shown to be the best way to yield the optimal health benefits for your body, for these reasons:

1) Many nutrients work together synergistically, and in fact some nutrients cannot work at all without each other.

For example, Vitamin E needs Vitamin C in order to function properly. These two vitamins work much more effectively together than on their own.

2) Many nutrients can enhance the therapeutic benefits of each other.

For example, Vitamin E is an important antioxidant, yet there are much more powerful antioxidants such as Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), red clover and green tea extract. These antioxidants working together are much more beneficial for warding off cancer and illness than Vitamin E on its own.