Alfalfa (leaf)The leaves of this remarkable legume contain eight essential amino acids. Is a fairly good source protein (up to 50%), B-complex vitamins and several minerals (calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, and potassium).
Alfalfa is a good laxative and a natural diuretic. It is useful in the treatment of urinary tract infections, and kidney, bladder and prostrate disorders. Alkalizes and detoxifies the body, especially the liver. Promotes pituitary gland function and contains an anti-fungus agent.
This versatile herb is also a folk remedy for arthritis, diabetes, asthma, hay fever, and is reputed to be an excellent appetite stimulant and overall tonic. Excellent source of nutritive properties with minerals, chlorophyll and vitamins. Alfalfa is high in chlorophyll and nutrients.
Psyllium HusksStudies have shown that psyllium husk is effective in lowering total cholesterol and LDL (the Bad cholesterol) levels. Studies also found that a 1% reduction in total and LDL cholesterol can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 2%.
Since psyllium husk is a type of fiber, it can alleviate constipation. In addition, recent studies also showed positive benefits of psyllium in IBD (Crohn's Disease and Colitis). Psyllium acts as prebiotics - aiding to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.
Lemon PeelLemon Peel is derived from the fruit of Citrus limon, the common lemon. Man has cultivated the Lemon for about two thousand years. Lemon has become the most popular citrus fruit in the world and is cultivated in warmer climates across the globe. Though most people peel the Lemon and eat only the fruit, the Lemon Peel, though not tasty on its own, is used medicinally. Lemon Peel contains calcium, phosphorus, potassium, ascorbic acid, and Vitamin A, as well as volatile oil and hesperidin. In Africa, Lemon Peel is used to treat colic, and in India, Lemon Peel is used to treat upset stomach.
The British Pharmacopoeia lists Lemon Peel as an aromatic for use as an aroma and flavor enhancer. The bioflavonoid constituents of this herb are reported to reduce the permeability of blood vessels, especially of capillaries, so that extracts from Lemon Peel are also included in remedies for phlebitis. New studies on a monoterpene found in Lemon Peel called "limonene" show that it very effectively prevents individuals from developing abnormal growths on their skin. Limonene also has demonstrated prevention efficacy in preclinical models of breast and colon abnormal growths. But the most promising use of Lemon Peel is indicated in recent research, which shows that this herb may help reduce the occurrence of squamous cell skin cancers. Further study is still required to support this research.
Wheat GrassMost people who have explored the wondrously wide avenues of self-healing have heard about wheatgrass. Wheatgrass juice has been proven over many years to benefit people in numerous ways: cleansing the lymph system, building the blood, restoring balance in the body, removing toxic metals from the cells, nourishing the liver and kidneys and restoring vitality. One ounce of wheatgrass juice has the vitamin and mineral equivalent of 2.2 pounds of fresh vegetables.
It contains most of the vitamins and minerals needed for human maintenance, including the elusive B12. Many of the benefits of wheatgrass juice stem from the fact that it is a living food, which is a complete protein with about 30 enzymes and is approximately 70% crude chlorophyll.
Wheat grass powder is an excellent concentrated food source of beta-carotene, calcium, chlorophyll, fiber, iron and vitamin K. It is also a very good source of protein, vitamin C, vitamin B-12, folic acid, vitamin B-6, trace minerals and contains all essential amino acids.
Buckthorn (leaf)Buckthorn Bark is mainly used as an aperient that acts as a laxative without the harsh purging actions often associated with laxatives. It is mild, but effectively causes rapid evacuation of the bowels. The basis of the herb's efficacy is thought to be the presence of anthraquinones - either free (i.e., aloe-emodin) that remain in the intestines and irritate the intestinal wall to stimulate elimination - or as sugar derivatives (glycosides), which are absorbed into the intestines and bloodstream and go on to stimulate the nerve center in the lower part of the intestine. As such, Buckthorn Bark is said to be effective in cases of chronic constipation and atonic constipation, which is caused by inadequate intake of fluids, poor diet, or overuse of purgatives that result in loss of natural reflexes. It is also thought to ease abdominal bloating.
The tannins in Buckthorn Bark are believed to have astringent properties and have been used to treat hemorrhoids. Buckthorn Bark is believed to stimulate the liver and gallbladder. The herb is said to be beneficial for treating liver disorders, such as jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc. It is also thought to help a sluggish gallbladder by increasing the flow of bile and has been said to help the body rid itself of gallstones.
Turmeric (root)Turmeric (Curcuma longa), the bright yellow of the spice rainbow, is a powerful medicine that has long been used in the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat a wide variety of conditions, including flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, bloody urine, hemorrhage, toothache, bruises, chest pain, and colic.
Peppermint (leaf)Peppermint (Mentha x piperita), a popular flavoring for gum, toothpaste, and tea, also serves as a calming agent to soothe an an upset stomach or to aid in digestion. Because it has a calming and numbing effect, it has been used to treat headaches, skin irritations, anxiety associated with depression, nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence. It is also widely used to treat symptoms of the common cold.