IMMUNE STRENGTHENERS
Cat's Claw for Arthritis, Cancer, AIDS,Fungal infections
Degenerative Diseases, and Premature Aging?
Studies Beginning in the 1970's Suggest Many Uses for Cat's Claw
A new botanical nutrient, Uncaria Tomentosa, is being called by many the "Miracle Herb from the Rain Forest of Peru". It has been drawing increasingly more interest among the proponents of natural health care. Although virtually unheard of in the United States until recently, the beneficial effects of the Peruvian herb Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as "una de gato" in Spanish and "cat's claw" in English, have been studied at research facilities in Peru, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy, since the 1970's. These studies suggest that the herb may be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis, bursitis, allergies, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, herpes, organic depression, menstrual irregularities and disorders of the stomach and intestines. (References 1, 2, 3)
Properties attributed to cat's claw include:
Adaptogenic
Anti-microbial
Antioxidant
Anti-viral
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-tumor
This emergence of knowledge about the activity of cat's claw could not have come at a better time! Many people have become fearful that the war on cancer is being lost, that new potentially deadly viruses are evolving, and that more deadly "super-bacteria" are developing due to over use of prescription antibiotics. This is why increased attention is being placed upon "Nature's Pharmacy", the botanical or herbal nutrients that offer so much hope.
In referring to cat's claw, Newsweek reported that this "rain forest herb has been long used to treat asthma, ulcers, and cancer. ("Nature's Biggest Sellers", Newsweek, November 6, 1995, page 68)
In an article in Newlife, this herb was described as having so many therapeutic uses that it far surpasses such well known botanicals as Echinacea, Golden Seal, Astragalus, Siberian Ginseng, as well as Reishi and Shaitake mushrooms. ("Cat's Claw - A Wonder Herb from the Peruvian Rain Forest", Newlife, February, 1995)
Read the rest at : http://www.all-natural.com/catsclaw.html
http://www.bulkherbstore.com/PDABC This address cheapest bulk ordering place I found. $ 2.75 for 1/2 lb
TAHEEBO TEA [ pau d'arco] South American herb
The Incas and native tribes of South America use pau d’arco bark externally as a poultice or decoction for treating skin diseases including eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, hemorrhoids and skin cancers. A tea made from the bark is used as a blood purifier, to treat ulcers and rheumatism and is said to cure leukemia. It is also diuretic and antipyretic.
The recent popularity of pau d’arco in western herbology is attributed to its antifungal activity in treating systemic yeast infections like candida albicans. Yeast infections often accompany or follow antibiotic therapy and can be especially resistant to conventional treatment. The antifungal action of pau d’arco is used to combat these infections by drinking the tea thrice daily.
Contains astringent compounds that shrink inflamed tissues and are anti-fungal. It also contains bitter compounds that have anti-tumor activity especially in certain blood and skin cancers. Pau d’arco is an excellent herbal source of calcium. It has been used to treat fungal infections, inflammatory skin conditions, leukemia, dysentery, jaundice, ulcers, and rheumatism.
Pau D' Arco is high or very high on the following nutrients:Calcium, Cobalt,Crude Fiber, Silicon
Excerpts from The How to Herb Book
Pau d' Arco (Taheebo) comes from the inner bark of the Red Lapacho tree in the Andes of South America. It has been used for centuries. Theodoro Meyer of the National University of Tucuman, Argentina was the first modern scientist to study Taheebo’s chemical composition. He found it contained XYLOIDIN – an antibiotic with viricidal properties. Also contains LASPACHOL – an element noted for its antitumor activity.
Used for many disorders, considered an "everything" herb.
Make tea of 1 heaping Tbsp. Stepped for 5-20 minutes in 4-6 cups of water and drink.
There is some evidence that some cancers are caused by virus. Many people use Taheebo
(Pau d’ Arco) in fighting cancer.
Used for all skin diseases.
Good for sores, even old ones, used externally.
Has been used in the following:
Blood purifier
Cancer, all types
Eczema
Herpes
Prostate
Tonic
Antifungal/antiviral
From Our Reading and/or Experience...
We use Pau D' Arco often in teas as the taste is absolutely fabulous. We also use it in tincture combinations pertaining to any fungal infections, cancers, skin conditions and digestive problems. Of course, it can be used in many other types of remedies. For instance, it can easily be made into powder, and used as such in capsules.
It can be used to benefit anyone: men, women (including before, during or after pregnancy, and nursing), children and animals.
It can be used as often as you would like, and in any way you choose.
Storage is not very critical with Pau D' Arco.
Elderberry:
Elderberry extract of the purple-black berries that grow on the tall elder shrubs. These berries have long been used to fight the common cold. During the winter, the people of England historically took a teaspoon a day of a rich syrup made from the elderberry to prevent winter diseases. Elderberries are high in vitamins A and C, and studies show that both these vitamins strengthen the immune system. Elderberries are also high in natural iron. Fighter cells use iron to produce enzymes and oxidants which digest cold-causing bacteria.
Elderberry stimulates the body to eliminate toxins. In this way, elderberries prevent weakening of the immune and respiratory systems because they don't allow conditions of stagnation in which bacteria often thrive. Elderberries increase perspiration, allowing toxins to be expelled through the skin. These berries also act as a mild laxative and diuretic, clearing any stagnant conditions of the colon or kidneys. Elderberries help to move excess mucus from the lungs and sinuses, keeping the passages clear and strong.
In Europe, elder flowers have been popular for treating colds and fevers, and to help expectoration in bronchitis and asthma. Elder is commonly described as being a diaphoretic. It is often incorporated in herbal mixtures to treat influenza, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Other recommended uses include neuralgia, nervous conditions, inflammatory diseases, rheumatism, diabetes, and various infections. It is also employed as a laxative, a diuretic, for weight loss, and as a topical preparation for skin disorders.
The flowers are the source of an essential oil that contains palmitic and other fatty acids, and alkanes. The leaves and seeds contain cyanidin glycosides. Other compounds have been extracted from elder, including triterpenes, glycosides (e.g., sambucin, sambucyanin, sambunigrin), various anthocyan ins, flavonoids, sterols, and lectins.
The lectins have been shown to have antiviral and hemagglutinin properties in vitro. Laboratory studies suggest that elder flowers have anti-inflammatory effects, and animal models indicate that elder preparations may protect the liver against toxins. Clinical experience in Germany suggests elderberry (or elderberry-containing products) may have mulecretory properties.
One article I read said it stops the multiplication of viral cells. It is antidote to the BIRD FLU
TULSI or BASIL
Tulsi or basil is a herbal remedy for a lot of common ailments.
Tulsi is an important constituent of many Ayurvedic cough syrups
and expectorants. It helps to mobilise mucus in bronchitis and
asthma.
Tulsi oil is believed to have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral
properties. Its anti-spasmodic property can be utilised to relieve
abdominal colics. The extracts are also helpful in digestive disorders.
Tulsi is believed to support immunity by increasing the antibody
production. Experimental studies on animals have shown anti-stress
activity with tulsi extract. Packed 450mg/cap
Ingredients Ocimum sanctum
Packaging 120 vegicaps (about 1 month's supply)
The Science of WinterWell
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) leaf is traditionally used in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese medicine to support healthy upper respiratory tract function.1,2 Double-blind, placebo controlled clinical trials support the traditional use of Andrographis.3,4 In clinical trials with over 1300 subjects, Andrographis proved effective taken alone or combined with other herbal ingredients.5,6
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) is related to common basil and in the Ayurvedic tradition the leaves are used to support healthy upper respiratory tract function.7-9 Research has shown that Holy Basil holds numerous potential health benefits, including support of healthy immune system function.10
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is renowned as an herbal adaptogen. In the Indian Ayurvedic tradition the root is used as a Rasayana, a dietary supplement or practice promoting rejuvenation, mental and physical health, as well as providing a defense against aging and challenging environmental factors.11 Research has shown that Ashwagandha root extracts support healthy immune system function.12-14
Trikatu or the 'three pungent spices', is a traditional formula used to support healthy upper respiratory tract function.15 It consists of equal parts of Long Pepper fruit (Piper longum), Black Pepper fruit (Piper nigrum), and Ginger root (Zingiber officinale). It can also enhance the bioavailability of other herbal products taken at the same time.16,17 References below.
Directions
1 capsule, two to three times per day or as directed by your health care practitioner. Not for use during pregnancy. If you are nursing a baby or taking any prescription drugs, seek the advice of a health professional before using this product. Not to be taken by children under 12. Keep out of reach of children.
Care for the Environment
As a manufacturer, our actions can have a large impact on the environment. We always look for the most earth-friendly, sustainable choice
NEEM
Nature's Systemic Purifier
(Melia azadirachta / Azadirachta indica)
Neem, one of the most famous plants found throughout India, has strong health maintaining properties. Neem's traditional use is based on its detoxifying benefits that help maintain healthy circulatory, digestive, respiratory and urinary functions. There is plenty of scientific backup for Neem's immune enhancement properties as a booster of the macrophage's effectiveness.
The following herbal description is referenced from Himalaya Herbal Healthcare of India. Please note that this information is provided for those seeking to understand how this herbal formula is used in India. In the United States, this product is sold as a dietary supplement, has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
"Azadirachta indica is a large, evergreen tree. Its principle constituents are nimbin, nimbinin and nimbidin. All parts of the plant yield B-sitosterol. It is used for external applications in skin diseases. Neem extracts possess antidiabetic, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The tree stem, root and bark possess astringent, tonic and antiperiodic properties. The bark is beneficial in fever and useful in cutaneous diseases.
All the parts of the plant and active principles and extracts possess a lot of significant pharmacological properties. It is bitter and alterative. It is used as a poultice in boils, is antiseptic, demulcent, a tonic in catarrhal affections, stomachic, stimulant. It is useful in snake bite, scorpion sting, hypoglycemic, in rheumatism, as an analgesic, antipyretic, sedative, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, antiviral, anthelmintic and in skin diseases.
The antibacterial, antifungal and blood purifying properties of Nimba are useful in skin disorders and keeps the skin healthy. It is used in Skin disorders."
Also known as: Indian lilac, Margosa, Nimba, Nim, Nimb
Usage Take 1 or 2 capsules twice daily with meals.
Packaging 60 250mg Vegetarian capsules
Site with photos: http://www.neemamerica.org/farm.html
http://www.altnature.com/gallery/Prunella_Vulgaris.htm
Prunella Vulgaris picture by Karen Bergeron
(c) 2006 Prunella vulgaris
Prunella Vulgaris
Other Names: Prunella, All-Heal, Hook-Heal, Self Heal,
Slough-Heal, Brunella, Heart of the Earth, Blue Curls,
Carpenter-weed, Common Selfheal, Consolida Minor,
Lance Selfheal,Sicklewort, Woundwort, Xia Ku Cao
Prunella Vulgaris is one of the latest herbs making headlines as
a natural treatment for herpes. Next to Jewelweed and possibly
Ginseng, this is the herb I am most asked about lately.
Prunella Vulgaris Tincture, Salve and Liquid Wash
There are no known safety issues or contraindications for using the herb Prunella Vulgaris.
Prunella Vulgaris Description and Habitat
Prunella grows from 1 to 2 feet high, with creeping, self-rooting, tough, square, reddish stems branching at leaf axis. Once the plant reaches any significant height, it falls over and attaches new roots to the ground if possible, much like skullcap and other herbs in the mint family. The leaves of Prunella Vulgaris are lance shaped, serrated and reddish at tip, about an 2 -3 inches long and 1 inch broad, grow on short stalks in opposite pairs down the square stem. The flowers grow from a clublike, somewhat square, whirled cluster, immediately below this club are a pair of stalkless leaves standing out on either side like a collar. Prunella flowers are two lipped and tubular, the top lip is a purple hood, and the bottom lip is often white, it has three lobes with the middle lobe being larger and fringed upwardly. Prunella Vulgaris flowers bloom at different times depending on climate and other conditions. Mostly from June to August.
Prunella Vulgaris is a perennial herb found throughout Europe, Asia, Japan and the U. S., (to mention a few) its origin seems to be European though it has been documented in other countries since before any history of travel. Prunella Vulgaris is found growing in waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic and neutral soils. It seems to grow just about everywhere.
How to Grow Prunella Vulgaris
Prunella Vulgaris thrives in any damp soil in full sun or in light shade. It will grow thicker in a part shade environment. Prunella vulgaris is a good plant for growing in the spring meadow. Sow seed in very early spring in a flat outdoors, or give a short cold and moist conditioning treatment before sowing in a warm place. As Prunella Vulgaris is related to the mint family, it transplants and spreads easily. Some not so enlightened people might consider it a weed.
Click here to buy Organic Prunella Vulgaris Herb Seed
Prunella Vulgaris Herb Uses and Medicinal Properties
Prunella Vulgaris is an edible and medicinal herb, and can be used in salads, soups, stews, or boiled as a pot herb. Used as an alternative medicine for centuries on just about every continent in the world, and for just about every ailment known to man, Heal-All is something of a panacea, it does seem to have some medicinal uses that are constant.
Prunella's most useful constituents are Betulinic-acid, D-Camphor, Delphinidin, Hyperoside, Manganese, Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid, Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and Tannins. The whole plant is medicinal as alterative, antibacterial, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, stomachic, styptic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.
A cold water infusion of the freshly chopped or dried and powdered leaves is a very tasty and refreshing beverage, weak infusion of the plant is an excellent medicinal eye wash for sties and pinkeye. Prunella is taken internally as a medicinal tea in the treatment of fevers, diarrhea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding, and weaknesses of the liver and heart. Clinical analysis shows it to have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. Coli, Mycobacterium tuberculi, which supports its use as an alternative medicine internally and externally as an antibiotic and for hard to heal wounds and diseases. It is showing promise in research for herpes, cancer, AIDS, diabetes, and many other maladies.
Recent research shows that application of Prunella Vulgaris is helpful in controlling herpes outbreaks, click here to read more.
Harvesting Information
Gather flowering tops, and dry in small bunches for later herb use, or tincture fresh. Store in cool, dry, dark, place for best shelf life.
Prunella Vulgaris Folklore and History
Prunella Vulgaris was once proclaimed to be a Holy herb and thought to be sent by God to cure all ailments of man or beast, and said to drive away the devil, which lead to the belief that Heal-All was grown in the Witches garden as a disguise. The root was used to make a tea to drink in ceremonies before going hunting by one Native American tribe to sharpened the powers of observation.
Herbal Tea Recipe
Medicinal tea or infusion: Add 1 oz. Dried or fresh herb to a pint of boiling water, steep till cool, take in Ґ cup doses, sweetened with honey, as a general immune strengthener.
Article by Deb Jackson & Karen Bergeron
References
USDA Plants Database Prunella Vulgaris Info
Read more about Prunella as a promising natural Herpes remedy.
Prunella Vulgaris by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
Prunella Vulgaris Pictures Copyright Karen Bergeron 2006
