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Ruthie · Joined: 26 Feb 2006 Posts: 70 Location: Normanton

This can mean anything form Herbal tea's to the herbs you can put in your dinner. All can help to a heathlier and brightier you. The use of herbs to heal go back to the celts and maybe even further back.

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MMMMMM FOOD!!

Admin xxxmadmart · Guest

an old lady once told me that blackcurrant berries are good for sore throats? i admit that i have tried it and it does seem to work

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Feb 28, 2006 4:36 pm Post subject:

Yes same with mint leaves to freshen your breath and help your throat same with nettle pop and tea.
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Ruthie · Joined: 26 Feb 2006 Posts: 70 Location: Normanton

A mixture of fresh ginger and lemon juice can help a hearty cough. I know thisbecause i made some to help woth my astma one time. If it can help with my astma then it can help with anything. hehe

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MMMMMM FOOD!!

weirdspirit · Posted: Sat Mar 04, 2006 1:07 pm Post subject:

My great grandmother use to use herbs and people rather went to see her than a doctor.
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I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:05 pm Post subject:

Herbs have been used for generations and women use to swear by it but at the time of the witch hunt people who turned to herbs to make themselves better used to be tried and then executed. Like the tarot cards herbs have survied over the years. they are still used today for different things such as slimming aids and for sore throats, colds and arthristis and even depression.
_________________
I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

Numradax · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:08 pm Post subject:

Herbs have a great history behind them my favorite sorry is one of the Fox Clove which cures rashes and other things i belive

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Past,Present,Future are all the same-MrX

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:10 pm Post subject:

Yes most certainly. Like poppy seeds were used as sleeping draughts and for pain relief.
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Numradax · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:12 pm Post subject:

They are

they anygood for glandular pain the poppy seeds i mean of corse

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Past,Present,Future are all the same-MrX

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:13 pm Post subject:

You have glandular fever? I had that so did the hubby and its awful you poor soul. Actually you can get high on poppy seeds as they are a drug and they are good.
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I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

Numradax · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:15 pm Post subject:

not fever no i was at the dentists yesterday and had my jaw open for about 40 minutes while she done a root canel so my glands are sore today

_________________
Past,Present,Future are all the same-MrX

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:16 pm Post subject:

Poor you and that does not sound nice. I hope you are feeling better soon.
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I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

Numradax · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:22 pm Post subject:

well in time the body heals so hopefully a good nights sleep should do me the world of good

_________________
Past,Present,Future are all the same-MrX

weirdspirit · Posted: Tue Mar 07, 2006 9:22 pm Post subject:

I hope so and take care xxxxxx
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I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

Guest · Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2006 10:13 pm Post subject:

Hi!

I have been diagnosed with polyxystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) I was wondering if nyone knew of any other herbal remedies for this thing. I have been taking evening of primrose oil and a herbal diet pill called thermoslim but I was wondering if there is anything better out there.

Freebird

Guest · Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2006 10:15 pm Post subject:

weirdspirit · Posted: Thu Jun 22, 2006 6:45 pm Post subject:

OH HONEY IAM SORRY. LET ME THINK.
http://www.holistic-online.com/herbal-med/hol_herb.htm hAVE A LOOK ON THIS SITE.
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I am a psychic medium and fortune teller and have been all my life.

diseldriver · Joined: 03 Nov 2006 Posts: 31 Location: LA;-USA

COMMON HERBS AND THEIR USES

Herbal medicine is the most ancient form of medicine in the world, and uses plants - or parts of plants - to treat illness, relieve common ailments and restore health. The list below will give you a good idea of what's available.

How to use herbs
Follow these tips when buying your chosen herbal remedies:

Make sure they're in clearly labelled containers from reputable suppliers.
Always check for the percentage of active ingredient on the labels. If there isn't one listed, the supplement isn't likely to be effective.
Look for the words 'standardised extract' on the label, which guarantees the potency of the active ingredients.

Herbs can be taken in the following forms:

Infusion - leaves or flowers steeped in water to make a herbal tea.
Decoction - bark, twigs or roots simmered or boiled in water.
Tincture - herb soaked in alcohol and water for a specific length of time.
Extracts - parts of the herb dried and powdered, or oils extracted, and made into tablets or capsules.
Creams or ointments - herb combined with oils, fats and water.
Poultices - mixture of fresh dried or powdered herbs applied directly to a wound or problem area.
Compress - cloth soaked in a water-based herbal preparation and applied to an affected area.
Oils - herb infused in hot or cold oil over time.

To determine dosage, check recommended levels on the product and follow them carefully or consult a practitioner for advice. Also check to see whether the herb should be taken before or with food.

Herb effects may be altered if combined with prescription drugs. Always consult a practitioner for advice if you're already taking medication.

Many herbs shouldn't be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding. See the contraindications for each herb for further information.

Agnus castus
(Vitex agnus castus)
Also known as: chaste berry

Source: fresh or dried berries.

Actions: hormone regulator, progesterone-like effect.

Therapeutic uses: menstrual irregularity, PMS (breast swelling and tenderness, mood swings, for example), menopause, promotes breast milk in nursing mothers, boosts fertility.

Typical preparation: tablets, liquid tincture.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy. Avoid if taking progesterone drugs.

Aloe vera
(Aloe barbadensis)

Source: gel inside the leaves.

Actions: wound healing, emollient, laxative.

Therapeutic uses: gel can be applied topically to ease minor burns, scalds, cuts and sunburn. Liquid form can be drunk to soothe the digestive system and protect against ulcers. Bitter aloes, the bitter liquid exuded from the leaf, can be used to treat constipation.

Typical preparation: gel applied directly from leaves or collected commercially in a tube; drunk as juice.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy. Bitter aloes shouldn't be applied to the skin or taken if suffering from kidney disease or haemorrhoids.

Black cohosh
(Cimicifuga racemosa)

Also known as: squaw root

Source: fresh or dried roots.

Actions: promotes menstrual flow, sedative, anti-rheumatic.

Therapeutic uses: traditional Native American remedy for menstrual pain and menopausal hot flushes. Also used to ease arthritic and rheumatic pain due to inflammation and to treat high blood pressure, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), asthma and whooping cough.

Typical preparation: decoction from dried root, powdered root in tablet form, liquid tincture.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Buchu
(Barosma betulina)
Source: leaves.

Actions: antiseptic, diuretic, antiviral, vasodilator (encourages blood flow to the surface of the skin).

Therapeutic uses: traditional remedy of the Khoikhoin people of South Africa for treating urinary infections such as cystitis and urethritis. Also used for prostate inflammation, fluid retention and vaginal thrush.

Typical preparation: infusion or liquid tincture from the leaves or capsule of powdered leaf.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Cat's claw
(Unicaria tomentosa)

Source: inner bark and roots.

Actions: immune booster, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial.

Therapeutic uses: traditional Peruvian remedy for boosting the immune system to treat and prevent infection. Also used for gastrointestinal disorders such as ulcers, diverticulitis or gastritis, viral and bacterial infections, skin allergies and rheumatoid arthritis.

Typical preparation: tablet, tincture, herbal tea, cream.

Contraindications: although no serious adverse reactions have been reported, it's best avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Calendula
(Calendula officinalis)

Also known as: marigold

Source: leaves and flowers.

Actions: anti-inflammatory, astringent, antifungal, stimulant, diuretic.

Therapeutic uses: period pains, digestive irritation, colds, coughs and viruses. Applied externally for skin problems including nappy rash, varicose veins, cuts and grazes, chilblains, fungal infections and insect stings; also used for mouth ulcers.

Typical preparation: tincture, infusion, cream.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy.

Chamomile (German)
(Matricaria recutita)

Source: fresh or dried flower heads.

Actions: anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative, relaxant, anti-allergenic.

Therapeutic uses: indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome, nervous tension, insomnia, PMS, skin conditions such as eczema, colic and teething problems in babies and young children, hay fever, bronchitis, catarrh, asthma.

Typical preparation: infusion taken as a tea or added to bathwater, cream, essential oil.

Contraindications: the fresh plant can cause skin rash or irritation. The essential oil isn't recommended during pregnancy.

Comfrey
(Symphytum officinale)
Source: roots and leaves.

Actions: heals wounds and burns, anti-inflammatory, astringent.

Therapeutic uses: used externally for thousands of years to heal bruises, sprains, fractures, broken bones and skin problems such as acne, boils, scars and rashes. Taken internally for stomach ulcers and respiratory problems.

Typical preparation: cream/ointment, compress, liquid tincture. Leaves may be used as herbal tea.

Contraindications: use is restricted in some countries. Root shouldn't be taken internally. Oil from the leaves shouldn't be applied to open wounds.

Cranberry
(Vaccinium oxycoccos)

Source: berries.

Actions: diuretic, urinary antiseptic, detoxifying.

Therapeutic uses: urinary infections, such as cystitis (prevents harmful bacteria adhering to the walls of the bladder or urinary tract).

Typical preparation: powder, tablet, juice.

Contraindications: not recommended for those suffering from kidney disease without professional advice.

Devil's claw
(Harpagophytum procumbens)

Source: dried tubers.

Actions: anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, sedative, digestive stimulant.

Therapeutic uses: arthritis, gout, stiff joints, back pain, skin inflammation, sores and boils. Traditional South African remedy for digestive problems, especially gall bladder or stomach.

Typical preparation: decoction, tablets, liquid tincture.

Contraindications: not to be taken during pregnancy or by people with a stomach or duodenal ulcer.

Dong quai
(Angelica sinensis)

Source: roots.

Actions: female tonic, phytoestrogenic (plant ingredients that resemble the action of oestrogens).

Therapeutic uses: irregular menstruation, PMS, menopausal symptoms, cramps, restores health after childbirth, blood tonic.

Typical preparation: tablet, liquid tincture.

Contraindications: not recommended during pregnancy or for those with diabetes. High doses (over 500mg a day) may cause abdominal bloating and changes in menstrual timing or flow.

Echinacea
(Echinacea purpurea)

Source: roots, flowers and seeds.

Actions: immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, detoxifying.

Therapeutic uses: to prevent and fight infections, especially colds, flu, coughs and sore throats. Can be helpful for chronic fatigue syndrome, allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever, shingles, herpes and mouth ulcers, or applied topically for eczema, boils or acne.

Typical preparation: tablet/capsule, liquid tincture, cream, decoction (gargled for sore throat).

Contraindications: rare, but high doses (over 1,000mg) can sometimes cause dizziness or nausea. For the best effect, it shouldn't be taken for more than one to two weeks at a time.

Eyebright
(Euphrasia officinalis)

Source: aerial parts.

Actions: astringent, anti-inflammatory.

Therapeutic uses: eye tonic for eye irritation or infections such as conjunctivitis, sties and eyestrain. Also used internally for sinusitis, catarrh, sore throats and hay fever.

Typical preparation: tablet, decoction or liquid tincture.

Contraindications: none known, although its safety during pregnancy hasn't been proven.

Feverfew
(Tanacetum parthenium)

Source: leaves and aerial parts.

Actions: reduces fever, pain-relieving, anti-rheumatic.

Therapeutic uses: migraine, irregular or painful periods, joint inflammation and pain, fevers, childbirth.

Typical preparation: fresh leaves (eaten or made into a tea), tablets/capsules, liquid tincture.

Contraindications: not to be taken during pregnancy or if taking warfarin or any other blood-thinning medication. Eating the fresh leaves can trigger mouth ulcers in some people

* Alfalfa Food Supplement

* Aloe Blend for Digestive Problems and the Immune System

* Astragalus for High Blood Pressure

* Barley Grass aids in relieving Pancreatitis

* Bayberry for Varicose Veins

* Bee Pollen Boosts the Natural Defense System

* Bilberry to Support Healthy Eyes

* Black Cohosh for Female Complaints "The Blues"

* Black Walnut Hulls as a Natural Laxative

* Blessed Thistle For Improving Circulation

* Blue Cohosh Root to ease Women’s Menstrual Cramps

* Bromelain Aids Digestion with a Digesting Enzyme that Breaks Down Fat

* Burdock Root as a Blood Purifier

* Butchers Broom for Inflammation and Circulation

* Cascara Sagrada for Chronic Constipation

* Catnip as a Mild Sedative and to Control Diarrhea

* Cayenne Improves Circulatory System

* Chamomile Flower Relieves Menstrual Cramps

* Chickweed For a Blood Purifier and is Rich in Potassium

* Coenzyme Q10 for the Heart / Retard the Aging Process / Alleviate Gum

* Comfrey Leaf for Stomach Ulcers, Kidneys, Bowels and Lungs

* Comfrey Root is useful for Kidney Disorders

* Cornsilk is helpful for Hypertension

* Damiana used as a Sexual Stimulant and for Impotence

* Dulse is useful for Thyroid Dysfunction

* Devils Claw for Arthritis and Rheumatism

* Dong Quai helps maintain Female Hormones and regulates Monthly Cycles

* Echinacea is taken to Lessen the Severity of Colds and Flu

* Eyebright is used for Hay Fever and Relief of Eye Inflammations

* Fennel Seed Helps Reduce Inflammation and Calms Coughs

* Fenugreek for Intestinal Problems and is used as an Aphrodisiac

* Fo-Ti is used for Rejuvenation and is good for the Heart

* Garlic (odorless) is used to Reduce Infection

* Ginger Root is good for the Stomach and helps Cleanse Kidneys

* Ginkgo Biloba is used for Prevention and Slowing the Aging Process

* Ginseng is good for Body Balance and Endurance

* Goldenrod is taken for weak digestion

* Goldenseal Root is a Natural Anti-biotic

* Gotu Kola helps the Memory and is good for the Nerves

* Grape Seed Extract a powerful Antioxidant

* Guar Gum helps curb the Appetite

* Guarana Seed is a Fatigue Fighter

* Hawthorne Berries is used to Strengthen the Heart

* Hops tones the Liver and is a mild Sedative and Pain Reliever for Children

* Hydrangea helps reduce Inflamed Prostrate and Urinary Tract Infections

* Juniper Berries is used for Cleansing the Kidneys

* Kava Kava Root Reduces Nervousness and Promotes a Feeling of Well Being

* Kelp / Dulse Blend is a Good Source of Iodine and Trace Minerals

* Kelp helps the Body Fight Infection

* Lobelia is a Relaxant and helps Headaches

* Marshmallow Root is useful for Bronchitis

* Milk Thistle works with the Liver to Protect from Undesirable Chemicals

* Muirapauma is reputed to be an Aphrodisiac

* Mullein Leaf taken to treat Swollen Joints

* Myrrh Gum is a Herbal Breath Freshener

* Nettle helps reduce Fevers Rich in iron and Vitamin C

* Oregon Grape Root Helps Remove Toxins from the Blood

* Osha aids the Immune System and is good for Smokers

* Papaya Leaf aids Digestion and reduces Heartburn

* Passion Flower is a Natural Tranquilizer and is used to relieve Muscle Tension

* Pau D’Arco is a Natural Anti-biotic that has Antiviral and Antifungal qualities

* Peach Leaf helps Coughs

* Peppermint Leaf helps reduce Nausea and Relaxes the Stomach

* Psyllium Husk is Natures Colon Cleanser to remove Toxins from the Intestines

* Red Clover is used as a Blood Purifier

* Rosehips is a Infection Fighter and Provides Natural Vitamin C

* Safflower is a good Laxative

* Sage helps Inflammation of the Mucous Membranes, Mouth and Gums

* Sarsaparilla Root is used for Arthritis and promotes Male Sexual Potency

* Sassafras is used for the Skin

* Saw Palmetto to Strengthen the Prostrate Gland

* Senna Leaf as a Laxative

* Slippery Elm helps Sore Throats

* Suma is used for Chronic Fatigue

* Thyme is used for Migraine Headaches

* Uva Ursi helps Reduce Urinary Tract Infections

* Valerian is good for the Nervous System and Relieves Tension promo

* White Oak is a Powerful Astringent and is used for Kidney and Gallstones

* White Willow Helps Reduce Pain of Arthritis and Inflamed Joints

* Wild Yam is used for Cramps

* Wood Betony relieves Heartburn and is Beneficial to the Liver

* Yellow Dock is a good Iron source and Builds Strength and Stamina

* Yerba Mansa is a Herbal Antibiotic

* Yerba Santa reduces Chest Congestion

* Yucca Root Strengthens the Immune System

diseldriver · Joined: 03 Nov 2006 Posts: 31 Location: LA;-USA

MORE HERBAL USES

Garlic
(Allium sativum)

Source: bulbs.

Actions: antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, reduces cholesterol, helps to balance blood pressure.

Therapeutic uses: colds, flu, coughs, sinusitis and chest infections, candida albicans, high blood pressure and heart disease, circulatory problems, skin problems including acne and impetigo, blood sugar regulation, digestive infections.

Typical preparation: eaten raw or in food, rubbed on skin, tablets or capsules.

Contraindications: not to be taken with anti-clotting medication. If you're breastfeeding, you may find that garlic makes your baby's colic worse.

Ginger
(Zingiber officinalis)

Source:
Rhizome, which contains high levels of ginger oil.

Actions:
Anti-emetic (stops nausea), anti-inflammatory, warming, circulation stimulant, digestive tonic, antiseptic.

Therapeutic uses:
Travel sickness, morning sickness or nausea, indigestion, colds and flu, chilblains and arthritis. Also helps to lower blood pressure.

Typical preparation:
Eaten raw or cooked, infusion, capsules, ginger gum, liquid tincture, essential oil.

Contraindications:
Not to be taken by those suffering from peptic ulcers. The essential oil shouldn't be taken internally without professional supervision. Long-term use in pregnancy isn't recommended.

Ginkgo biloba

Source:
Leaves and nuts.

Actions:
Antioxidant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, circulation stimulant, improves memory and general mental function.

Therapeutic uses:
Poor memory and concentration and impaired mental function, high blood pressure, stroke, varicose veins, piles, asthma, wheezing.

Typical preparation:
Tablet/capsule, liquid tincture, infusion. The nuts are eaten as a delicacy in the Far East for improving memory and easing wheezing.

Contraindications:
High doses (over 120mg a day) can cause headaches. Not usually recommended for children and not to be taken by those on blood-thinning medication.

Ginseng (Siberian)
(Eleutherococcus senticosis)

Source: roots.

Actions:
Immune booster, tonic, stimulant, adaptogenic (improves tolerance to physical, mental and environmental stresses). Siberian ginseng isn't technically a member of the ginseng family, but it has very similar properties and is widely used.

Therapeutic uses:
Stress, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, depression, poor memory and concentration, chronic fatigue syndrome, jet lag.

Typical preparation:
Decoction, tablets/capsules, liquid tincture. Best taken early in the day.

Contraindications:
Not to be taken with coffee or for more than six weeks at a time. Avoid if pregnant or have high blood pressure. Unsuitable for children.

Golden seal
(Hydrastis canadensis)

Source:
Fresh or dried rhizome.

Actions:
Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, tonic, astringent, mild laxative, uterine stimulant.

Therapeutic uses:
Traditional Cherokee remedy for wounds and ulcers. Used for digestive disorders such as heartburn, dyspepsia and indigestion, catarrh, ear, mouth, sinus and throat infections, PMS and menstrual discomfort, urinary infections and candidiasis (eg, thrush).

Typical preparation:
Decoction (as a gargle for sore throats), capsules, liquid tincture.

Contraindications:
Not to be taken if pregnant, breastfeeding or suffering from high blood pressure.

Hawthorn
(Crataegus oxyacantha)

Source:
Flowers and berries.

Actions:
Antioxidant, relaxant, improves circulation, dilates blood vessels.

Therapeutic uses:
Heart disease (including angina and coronary artery disease), high blood pressure, poor memory, nervous tension, insomnia.

Typical preparation:
Tablets, decoction, liquid tincture.

Contraindications:
Those with heart disease and pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek professional advice before taking hawthorn.

Juniper
(Juniperus communis)

Source: Berries and twigs.

Actions: Diuretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory.

Therapeutic uses: Urinary infections such as cystitis, water retention, rheumatism, chest problems.

Typical preparation: Tablets, infusions, douches. Oil from the berries is used for chest problems; the oil from twigs is used for skin conditions.

Contraindications: Avoid if pregnant. Don't use internally for more than six weeks.

Milk thistle
(Silybum marianum)

Source:
Seeds and flowerheads.

Actions:
Protects liver, increases bile secretion, antioxidant, increases production of breast milk.

Therapeutic uses:
Liver disorders including hepatitis, cirrhosis and jaundice, PMS, candidiasis, psoriasis.

Typical preparation:
Capsules, decoction, liquid tincture.
Contraindications: none known.

Nettle
(Urtica dioica)

Source:
Aerial parts and roots.

Actions:
Diuretic, astringent, tonic, anti-inflammatory, prevents haemorrhages, cleansing, detoxifiying.

Therapeutic uses:
Elimination of waste products, arthritis, gout, urinary problems, hay fever, allergies, eczema, bleeding, ear, nose and throat problems.

Typical preparation:
Infusion, decoction, tincture, ointment.
Contraindications: occasional allergic reactions.

Passion flower
(Passiflora incarnata)

Source:
Aerial parts and flowers.

Actions:
Tranquillising, sedative, antispasmodic.

Therapeutic uses:
Anxiety, stress, insomnia, cramps, toothache, menstrual pain, headache.

Typical preparation:
Infusion, tincture, tablets.

Contraindications:
Can cause drowsiness, so caution is needed when driving or handling machinery. Avoid high doses (over 250mg a day) when pregnant.

Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)

Source:
Leaves.

Actions:
Relieves muscle spasms, antiseptic, increases sweating, stimulates bile secretion.

Therapeutic uses:
Digestive problems, especially indigestion, heartburn, colic and flatulence. Also helps nausea, tension headaches and migraine, respiratory infections, fevers and travel sickness.

Typical preparation:
Infusion, capsule, essential oil.

Contraindications:
Not suitable for pregnant or nursing women, or children under 12. The essential oil shouldn't be taken internally without professional supervision.

Red clover
(Trifolium pratense)

Source:
Flowers.

Actions:
Expectorant, antispasmodic, phytoestrogenic (plant ingredients that resemble the action of oestrogens).

Therapeutic uses:
Coughs, bronchitis, eczema, sores, scrofula (TB of the neck) and as a gargle for mouth ulcers and sore throats. Also relieves menopausal symptoms.

Typical preparation:
Tablets, liquid tincture or infusion.

Contraindications:
Should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

St John's wort
(Hypericum perforatum)

Source:
Flowers and aerial parts.

Actions:
Antidepressant, sedative, antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, astringent.

Therapeutic uses:
Depression, anxiety, insomnia, viral infections, menstrual cramps, menopausal stress, insect bites,burns, neuralgia, cramp.

Typical preparation:
Capsule, infusion, liquid tincture, cream.

Contraindications:
Can cause light sensitivity, so exposure to sun should be avoided. Not to be taken with the contraceptive pill, anti-epilepsy treatments and a number of other medications including antidepressants. If you're taking any medication, consult your doctor before starting St John's wort. It also shouldn't be taken with foods containing tyramine, such as cheese, red wine, preserved meats and yeast extracts.

Sarsaparilla
(Smilax)

Source:
Roots and rhizome.

Actions:
Anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antiseptic, blood cleanser, detoxifier.

Therapeutic uses:
Skin problems, especially irritated skin, psoriasis and eczema, rheumatism.

Typical preparation:
Tablets, infusion, tincture.

Contraindications:
None known.

Saw palmetto
(Serenoa serrulata)

Source:
Berries.

Actions:
Sedative, tonic, diuretic, anabolic.

Therapeutic uses:
Urinary problems, prostate problems, impotence and low libido, building up the body.

Typical preparation:
Tablets, infusion, decoction.
Contraindications: none known.

Schizandra
(Schisandra chinensis)

Source:
Fruit.

Actions:
Tonic, adaptogenic (restores the body's ability to heal itself), liver protector.

Therapeutic uses:
Liver problems such as hepatitis, stress, anxiety, insomnia, allergic skin conditions such as hives, recovery after surgery, aids athletic endurance, improves sexual function.

Typical preparation:
Berries can be chewed or made into infusion, tincture, decoction or capsules.

Contraindications:
Occasionally causes heartburn. Some studies suggest that epileptics and those with hypertension should avoid it or use it with great caution.

Slippery elm
(Ulmus fulva)

Source:
Bark.

Actions:
Nutrient, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, laxative, emollient.

Therapeutic uses:
Digestive problems such as indigestion, gastritis, ulcers, dyspepsia, colitis, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Also used for sore throats, bronchitis, coughs, urinary problems and skin conditions such as boils.

Typical preparation:
Infusion, capsules, poultice.

Contraindications:
None known.

Uva ursi
(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Also known as:
Bearberry

Source:
Leaves.

Actions:
Antiseptic, astringent, antibacterial.

Therapeutic uses:
Urinary tract disorders such as cystitis, urethritis, vaginitis, fluid retention and bedwetting. Also profuse bleeding during menstruation, diarrhoea and toothache.

Typical preparation:
Tablet, infusion, decoction.

Contraindications:
Not to be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Shouldn't be used for more than two weeks at a time without professional supervision. Higher doses occasionally lead to nausea.

Valerian
(Valeriana officinalis)

Source:
Roots and rhizome.

Actions:
Relaxant, sedative, relieves anxiety and spasms, lowers blood pressure.

Therapeutic uses:
Insomnia, nervous tension, stress, neuralgia, PMS, menstrual cramps and high blood pressure.

Typical preparation:
Tablets, decoction, tincture.

Contraindications:
Can cause drowsiness. Shouldn't be taken with sleep medication.

Wild yam
(Dioscorea villosa)

Source:
Roots and tubers.

Actions:
Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, anti-rheumatic, increases sweating, diuretic.

Therapeutic uses:
Traditional north and central American native remedy for painful periods, cramps and labour. Also used for menopausal symptoms, arthritis and rheumatism, joint inflammation, colic, irritable bowel syndrome and muscle spasms.

Typical preparation:
Tincture, cream, decoction.

Contraindications:
Not to be taken during pregnancy.