Herbs

What is Kava?

Administrator — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:39:23 +0000

Kava (Piper methysticum) is an ancient herbal shrub of the Western Pacific and is a member of the pepper family. In Latin, piper refers to ‘pepper’ and methysticum in Greek refers to ‘intoxicating’. Kava or Kava Kava refers to both the plant and the beverage (kava drink). Kava drink was the beverage of choice for the members of royal families of the South Pacific.

Benefits of Kava

Listed below are some health benefits of kava:

Kava Treats Anxiety: Kava kava is considered a non-addictive, anti-anxiety drug. The presence of kava lactones can promote relaxation of mind by uplifting mood and promoting a state of well being. These can help in alleviating anxiety and stress.
Kava Relaxes Muscles: It is suggested that the presence of kavapyrones can help in muscle relaxation and prevent convulsions. This can help in treating backache, sore neck, cramped or injured muscles, etc.
Kava Treats Infections: It is suggested that the anti-pathogenic property of kava can kill germs or pathogens and prevent infections. This can help in treating urinary tract infection, cystitis, yeast infections, etc.
Kava Treats Edema or Fluid Retention: Experts believe that the strong diuretic property of kava can help in removing excess water from the body through urination. This can help in treating edema or fluid retention in the body.

How to Make Kava Drink?
Making kava drinks form the daily ritual of the people of Vanatu. The drink is prepared from fresh roots of kava shrub. The actual preparation varies from custom to custom. One method involves placing freshly cleaned kava root in a standing vessel. With a heavy pounding pole, the kava is then pounded into a soft pulp. Once reduced to pulp, the kava is then placed in a large, wide bowel and mixed with cold water. The amount of water added to the pulp determines the potency of kava drink. The kava drink is then stirred for some time until it becomes yellowish and opaque. The solids of the drink are then strained out and the remaining liquid is ready to be taken as a beverage.

What is Horny Goat Weed?

Administrator — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:22:26 +0000

What is Horny Goat Weed?
Horny goat weed is an ornamental plant traditionally used as an aphrodisiac to treat male and female sexual dysfunctions. Its funny name is based on folk observations related to the behaviour of goats that became sexually active after feeding on these herbs. In traditional Chinese medicine horny goat weed, also known as Yin Yang Ho, has held a vital place and is increasingly gaining acceptance around the world.

Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed
The various health benefits of the horny goat weed are attributed to the presence of polysaccharides, flavonoids, steroids and magnaflorine.

Listed below are some healing effects of horny goat weed:

Horny Goat Weed for Sexual Arousal: Experts believe that horny goat weed as a phyto-aphrodisiac can inhibit an enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Such inhibition might result in higher levels of cholinergic neurotransmitters that are associated with sexual arousal. In addition, horny goat weed can prevent adrenal exhaustion, thereby fighting fatigue.
Horny Goat Weed for Erectile dysfunction: It is suggested that horny goat weed can improve quality of men’s erection. This can be possible by promoting blood flow and by creating firmer-feeling erections.
Horny Goat Weed for Treating Osteoporosis: It is believed that the presence of flavonoids such as icariin in horny goat might stimulate the production of osteoblasts, cells that build bones. This might help in preventing osteoporosis.
Horny Goat Weed for Promoting Heart Health: It is believed that horny goat weed might prevent hardening of arteries. This can help in treating atherosclerosis, heart strokes, etc.
Horny Goat Weed for Treating Cancer: It is believed that horny goat weed might have the ability to prevent new blood vessels growth. This property can help in inhibiting the growth of cancerous tumors.

Side Effects of Horny Goat Weed
Chinese medicine use horny goat weed in combination with ‘yin tonic herbs’ to support sexual health. If it is not done, the herb is suggested to cause side effects such as fever, irritability, aggressiveness, excessive heart rate, etc.

Health Benefits of Red Yeast Rice

Administrator — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 06:19:11 +0000

What is Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice is reddish purple fermented rice using a specific type of yeast known as Monascus purpureus. In China, its use was first recorded in the Tang Dynasty in 800 AD. Red yeast rice is also known as Hong Qu, Hung-chu, red kojic rice and is used as a dietary supplement. The various traditional usages of red yeast rice include artherosclerosis, anthrax, high blood pressure, hangover, postpartum problems, stomach problems, etc.

Health Benefits of Red Yeast Rice

Listed below are some red yeast rice benefits:

Red Yeast Rice for Lowering Cholesterol: Experts believe that the presence of monacolins in red yeast rice can reduce harmful cholesterols such as triglycerides and LDL from our blood. This might help in inhibiting the production of harmful cholesterol in liver, thereby keeping blood cholesterol level in check.
Red Yeast Rice for Treating Diabetes: Though not yet scientifically proven, it is suggested that red yeast rice might help in keeping diabetes in control.
Red Yeast Rice for Treating Heart Problems: Again, early evidence suggests that Chinese red yeast rice might help in treating heart problems and in improving heart health. This might improve blood flow, reduce the risk of heart attacks, cardiovascular mortality, etc.

How to Take Red Yeast Rice?
Chinese generally sprinkle red yeast rice on tofu or meat dishes to give their dish a tangy flavour.

Risks of Red Yeast Rice

Though the complete risks of red yeast rice are yet to be known, some possible side effects of red yeast rice might include:

Abdominal discomfort
Indigestion or Heart Burn
Liver Damage
Muscle Damage – Muscle pain, tenderness and weakness
Allergic Reaction

Source: Study Finds Chinese Food Good for Your Heart (http://www.jeffersonhospital.org/news/2007/article16349.html)

Herbs to Cleanse Digestive System

Administrator — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:18:46 +0000

Herbs have long been used to help our body remove wastes that are harmful to our body. Some herbs for cleansing the digestive system include dandelion, barberry roots, alfalfa, goldenseal, psyllium seeds, etc. Using herbs to cleanse digestive system naturally can help in gentle toning, cleansing and purification of the system. Besides these, a proper digestive system flush herbally can help in weight loss, constipation, kidney stones, etc.

Herbs to Cleanse Digestive System

Listed below are some of the herbs that can act as digestive system detox:

Dandelion as Digestive System Cleanse: It is believed that potassium content in dandelion can help in removing toxins from our digestive system. This property can help in detoxifying the liver, gallbladder and kidneys by removing obstructions from our system.
Buckthorn Buck for Digestive System Cleanse: Buckthorn buck can stimulate the liver and promote the secretion of bile. The herb can also remove worms and excess body fluids from the system. All these can help in flushing out toxins from the digestive system.
Barberry Roots as Digestive System Detox: It is suggested that barberry roots can have deep cleansing effect on our stomach and intestine. This might be possible because of berberine that can inhibit the growth of bacteria and help in their removal.
Burdock Roots as Digestive System Cleanse: Experts believe that having antibacterial and antifungal properties can help this herb to cleanse the digestive system. As a mild laxative, burdock can help remove uric acid from the kidneys. Burdock can also help remove excess fluid out of the system.
Goldenseal for Digestive System Detox: Again, the presence of berberine in goldenseal might help in killing and expelling bacteria out of the system. This might help in digestive system cleanse.
Alfalfa as a Digestive System Cleanse: It is believed that alfalfa can be an effective digestive system flush. Being rich in minerals and vitamins, alfalfa can clean, tone and nourish the digestive system. It can remove excess body fluid and fat from the system, dissolve kidney stones, etc.
Psyllium Seeds as Digestive System Detox: Psyllium seeds can act like a sponge absorbing the wastes from the bowel and removing them out of the system. Being one of the highest sources of dietary fibers, psyllium seeds can help in carrying bile and fat out of the system.

Using herbs to flush out digestive system can have side effects. The particular herb may interact with other herbs, medications or supplements. One may want to take advice from an expert before using these herbs as a medicine.

Health Benefits of Krill Oil

Administrator — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 09:27:06 +0000

What is Krill Oil?
Krill oil is naturally occurring oil obtained from shrimp-like crustaceans known as krills. Krills are predominantly found in the Antarctic and the North Pacific oceans. There are various health benefits of krill oil because of the presence of omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, EPA and DHA) and astaxanthin (antioxidant). Some effective krill oil cures include arthritis, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), atherosclerosis, heart attack, colon cancer, etc.

Health Benefits of Krill Oil
Listed below are some krill oil benefits:

Krill Oil Treats Arthritis: It is suggested that the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA can help in relieving pain and inflammation. This might help in treating arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.
Krill Oil Promotes Mental Agility: Experts suggest that the presence of omega-3 fatty acid can help in normal growth, development and functioning of brain. Omega-3 fatty acid can help in the growth of neurons within the brain and strengthen myelin sheaths. This promotes better communication between nerve cells, thereby improving mental concentration and clarity. Krill oil might treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, psychosis, etc.
Krill Oil Promotes Heart Health: It is believed that omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil can make an effective heart healthy cure. Krill oil can lower bad cholesterols such as triglycerides, LDLs and raise good cholesterol such as HDLs. This might help treat high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, etc.
Krill Oil Cures Skin Disorders: Krill oil is considered effective in treating skin disorders such as eczema, lupus, psoriasis, sun burn etc. This might be possible because of the presence of EPA in krill oil. Moreover the presence of astaxanthin might help in protecting the skin against sun burn.
Krill Oil Reduces the Risk of Cancer: It is suggested that omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil might reduce the risk of cancer. This might help in treating colon, breast and prostrate cancer. It is suggested that EPA and DHA might help in slowing or reversing the progression of early stages of colon cancer.

Side Effects of Krill Oil
People having seafood allergies or bleeding disorders may not want to take krill oil. It might aggravate their condition.

What is Devil’s Claw?

Administrator — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 12:15:49 +0000

What is Devil’s Claw?
Devil’s claw, also known as cockspur, is a perennial shrubby vine with branching roots and shoots. An original native to South Africa and Namibia, the name of the plant originates from its small claw-like barbs or hooks that cover its fruits. The dried roots of Devil’s claw have long been used to promote appetite, stomach upset, to treat degenerative diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc.

Health Benefits of Devil’s Claw

Listed below are some of the health benefits of devil’s claw:

Devil’s Claw Treats Gastrointestinal Problems: It is suggested that devil’s claw can promote digestion by toning the digestive system. Moreover, the anti-spasmodic property of devil’s claw might help in soothing the walls of the stomach and intestine. This can help in treating stomach upset and diarrhea.
Devil’s Claw to Act as a Pain Reliever: Experts suggest that the analgesic property of devil’s claw might help in relieving the intensity of pain. This can alleviate sinus headache, moderate neck, low back, and shoulder muscle pain.
Devil’s Claw Treats Blood Pressure: It is believed that the diuretic property of devil’s claw might help in checking blood pressure. This might be possible by removing excess fluid and sodium from the body through urination.
Devil’s Claw Promotes Healthy Joints: Experts suggest that the anti-inflammatory property of devil’s claw might help in reducing pain, inflammation and swelling in the joints. This can help in treating osteoarthritis, gout, etc.
Devil’s Claw Treats Appetite Loss: It is suggested that the bitter taste of devil’s claw can help in treating appetite loss.

Pregnant ladies may not want to use devil’s claw as it can cause uterine contractions. Those who have gastric or duodenal ulcers, gallstones, diabetes etc may want to consult with their doctor before using devil’s claw.

History, Symptoms and Cause of Progeria

Administrator — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 09:00:02 +0000

History of Progeria
In 1886, Jonathan Hutchinson and Hastings Gilford first discovered a rare condition among small children that caused rapid aging. The disease was named ‘Progeria’ or ‘Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome’. Progeria is a rare genetic condition that affects one in eight million newborns worldwide. It can occur without any cause and can be seen in a family with no history of progeria. In very rare cases, more than one child from the same family can be affected by the disease.

Cause of Progeria
In 2003, researchers found mutation in the LMNA gene as the cause of progeria. It is suggested that the change occurs in a single DNA building block (nucleotide) in the gene. This can disrupt the structure and function of the nuclei, making the cells die prematurely, thereby leading to Progeria.

Progeria Symptoms
Normal growth of a child slows down considerably in the initial year, though there is normal motor development. The child looks old with narrowed face, conspicuous scalp veins and pinched nose. There is high risk of delayed tooth formation. Generally, the limbs shows fragility accompanied with joint stiffness.

Listed below are some progeria symptoms:

Premature and Rapid Aging
Mental retardation
Balding
Beaked nose
Thin skin
Extreme growth delay begins at 9 months to 2 years of age
Atherosclerosis
Dwarfism
Dental abnormalities
Hip dislocation

One may want to seek immediate medical advice after noticing slow growth, hair loss and skin change in a child. So far, permanent cure for progeria syndrome is yet to be found.

Eye Stye Remedies

Administrator — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 10:16:37 +0000

Eye stye is a bacterial infection that causes small painful bump along the edge of the eyelid. The infection is caused in the sebaceous or sweat glands in the eyelid where it cause blockage. Eye styes are not usually serious and can burst automatically after few days. In some cases, surgical draining of stye or antibiotic application may be required. Apart from these, there are some natural eye stye remedies that can be effective.

Popping a Stye
Popping a stye can be very painful and aggravate your infection. You may also hurt your eyeball unknowingly. You can wait till the stye rupture on its own.

Home Remedies for Styes

Listed below are some effective eye stye remedies:

Dandelion Tea to Remove Stye: You may drink dandelion tea 2 times regularly. This can help in getting rid of bacteria, thereby helping in treating stye.
Potato Paste to Reduce Swelling: You can prepare a paste of potato and spread the paste on a piece of cloth. You may apply this on your inflamed eye. This may check swelling caused due to stye.
Moist Heat Application to Drain the Stye: Putting a clean, warm and wet washcloth for 5 minutes can be one of the effective home remedies for styes. You may have to repeat this treatment 3 to 4 times daily. Moist heat compress can help in forming head on the stye (suppuration), thereby causing the stye to rupture. This can also relieve pressure, swelling and pain.
Aloe Leaf to Treat Stye: One of the effective remedies for styes is aloe leaf or aloe vera leaf. It is suggested that aloe vera leaf can treat oil-clogged pores. Moreover, the powerful antibacterial property of aloe vera leaf can help in killing bacteria, thereby treating styes. You can slit an aloe leaf lengthwise and then put the pulpy side of the leaf on your soar eye.
Acacia Leaves to Treat Swelling and Pain: It is suggested that acacia leaves can help in reducing pain and swelling of eyes. For this, you can prepare a decoction by boiling a handful of acacia leaves in about two cups of water. You may use the decoction as a compress on your eyelids to treat styes.

Say Cheers to Red Wine, to Protect Your Heart!

Administrator — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:18:21 +0000

Coming Christmas, red wine lovers all over the world have a lot to cheer about. Why not? They can now enjoy red wine and do not need to worry about its harmful effects on their heart! Yes, you heard it right. Red wine can protect your heart from coronary artery disease. Isn’t it amazing?

The study was conducted by Samarjit Das and his associates at the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada. It suggests that mild-to-moderate consumption of red wine can actually prevent the damage caused by ischemic reperfusion injury. This injury is caused when blood flow is restored to the heart after a period of ischemia.

The surprising fact has been ascribed to the presence of antioxidant compounds in red wine such as catechin, epicatechin, resveratrol, and proanthocyanidins. It is suggested that these compounds can prevent the damage caused to the vascular smooth muscle cells of heart through coronary vasodilation. Further, antioxidants can also prevent oxidative stress (caused by period of oxygen and nutrient deprivation) by acting on the central nervous system.

Source: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2359620

Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Administrator — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 06:55:53 +0000

Tea tree oil got its name from English Explorers, who first used its leaves to brew tea. In fact, the antiseptic property of tea tree oil was used by the Australian Army to treat wounds inflicted by war. Besides this property, the health benefits of tea tree oil can be resulting from its antiviral, antimicrobial, and such other properties.

Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
Listed below are some health benefits of tea tree oil:

Promotes Wound Healing: Experts suggest that open wound can become septic because of its sensitivity to bacterial and fungal infections. The strong anti-septic property of this oil can act directly on the wounds, thereby healing cuts, boils, etc.
Checks Infection Caused by Microbes: It is suggested that the anti-microbial property of tea tree oil can kill microbes such as bacteria, fungus, virus, etc. This can help in treating malaria, tropical fever, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, etc.
Treats Viral Infections: Tea tree oil is considered effective against viral infection such as influenza, common cold, etc. This might be possible because of the ability of tea tree oil to rupture the ‘protective shield’ around the virus, thereby killing them.
Treats Insect Stings and Bites: It is believed that tea tree oil might be effective against insect stings and bites. This might be possible because of its ability to repel insects and reduce the sensation of itching and pain.
Treats Gum Disease: It is suggested that tea tree oil can kill those bacteria in the mouth that are responsible for inflammation of gum. This property can help in treating periodontal disease, gingivitis, etc.
Boosts Our Immune System: Tea tree oil can help in building up the natural resistance of our body to fight diseases and infections. This might help to give our immune system a major boost.

You may want to consult with your doctor before applying tea tree oil. People who are allergic to tea tree oil can develop skin rashes, irritation, eczema, etc. Moreover, tea tree oil can only be used on the skin. If taken by the mouth can cause toxicity of liver and if taken in the ears can cause hear loss. So, be careful how you take tea tree oil.