INTRODUCTION

Eyebright is a very old herb with a long history of traditional use as a cleansing eyewash and strengthener of the eyes. Its use has continued into modern medicine, where it is used as a source of vital nutrition and for cleansing (internally and externally).

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is usually found growing wild in grassy areas of England and Europe. This small plant grows to be about 20cm. (8 in) high. It is a semiparasitic plant, normally growing on grass, obtaining its nourishment from the roots of its host. The flowers have spots and stripes which make the plant resemble bloodshot eyes.

Traditional Use

The appearance of eyebright flowers have caused the plant to be used to treat eye problems for hundreds, possibly thousands, of years. Eyebright is mentioned in the writings of the early physicians Dioscorides, Pliny and Galen. Its use in western medicine is traced back to the fourth century A.D. The first German book on medicinal herbs, published in 1485, mentions eyebright. It was also popular in Arabian medicine.

Scientific Information

Although most of the traditional uses of eyebright are based on the “doctrine of principles,” its medicinal values in modern medicine are due to its content of nutrients. It is very high in several vitamins and minerals including cobalt, niacin, riboflavin, silicon, calcium, magnesium, manganese, thiamine, vitamin A and zinc. In addition, it also contains a unique tannin, a volatile oil, glycosides, sterols, choline, aucubin and a bitter principle.

Eyebright is most popular as an astringent due to its tannin content. It also has antibacterial action due to its volatile oil content. It is thought to have a stimulant effect on the liver, resulting in a cleansing action. Other properties associated with eyebright include laxative, ophthalmic and tonic. Eyebright has also been shown to have hypotensive properties in anesthetized cats.

The astringent, cleansing actions of eyebright make it useful for a wide variety of indications. Clinical trials report success with eyebright compresses for relief of pain and disrupted vision in cases of acute inflammation in the eyes. It has been used to retard and reverse cataracts. Eyebright is also recommended for catarrh of the eyes, ears and respiratory tract. It was once smoked to relieve chronic bronchial colds. The herb acts specifically on the mucous lining of the eyes, nose and throat to relieve associated symptoms.

Other indications for eyebright include stomach ailments, jaundice, scrofula, and intestinal problems. Eyebright tea is said to activate the body’s resistance to stress and infection.

Safety

Few scientific studies have determined the value of eyebright as an external eyewash. Eyebright should not be used in excess as unwanted complications such as eye irritation and puffiness may result.

The information contained in this page lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

This formula contains the traditional herbs: dulse, horsetail, rosemary, and sage. By increasing the flow of urine, eliminating toxins from the bowel, and improving inner body metabolism, this formula supports healthy hair, skin and nails.

DULSE

Dulse (Palmaria palmata) is a red algae distributed throughout the colder waters of the North Atlantic and Pacific. Because it grows in the sea, it contains many minerals and trace elements that are absent in terrestrial plants due to low soil concentrations. Traditionally it has been used as a mineral supplement.

Scientific Information

Dulse is very high in nutrients. One of the few non-animal sources of B12, it also contains omega-3 fatty acids, mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The concentrations of the minerals: silicon, magnesium, calcium, zinc, selenium, chromium, and iodine in dulse are significant. Along with carotene’s, the herb also contains polysaccharides, most important being xylan. On a dry basis, dulse contains more than 30 percent total dietary fibers.

Polysaccharides are mucilaginous compounds that enhance the detoxifying and eliminative functions of the digestive system. The mineral iodine is essential for normal thyroid function, which regulates metabolic rate. It also strengthens connective tissues including the hair, skin and nails. Silicon strengthens the connective tissue by acting as a biological cross-linking agent. Formation of bones, teeth, and nails are facilitated by silicon, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and trace minerals. Other functions in which zinc participates are tissue growth, skin integrity, and cell-mediated immunity.

HORSETAIL

Herbalists have used Equisetum arvense and Equisetum hymale in disorders of the eyes, heart, liver and nerves. Historically, the herb is recommended for hemorrhages, kidney stones, benign enlargement of the prostate gland, inflammation and urinary incontinence. Horsetail tea reportedly aids skin problems. The Meskwaki Indians used it to improve the gloss of their ponies hair.

Scientific Information

Horsetail contains high quantities of silica, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The silica content strengthens and regenerates connective tissues to build strong fingernails, help repair split ends of hair and prevent baldness. Other components include: equisitine, saponins, phytosterols, flavonoids and organic acids, some of which have antioxidant properties which help reduce degeneration of hair, skin and nails.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) has been used in traditional medicine since ancient times as a stimulant, tonic, carminative and youth preservative. In the middle ages, men and women would place sprigs under their pillows to ward off demons and prevent bad dreams. In 1525, Banckes’ Herbal read, “Take the flowers thereof and boyle them in fayre water and drink that water for it is much worthe against all manner of evils in the body.” In China, an infusion of rosemary and borax is used to prevent baldness. A similar remedy is used in Europe to prevent scurf and dandruff. Herbalists recommend rosemary as a treatment for dyspepsia, stomach pains, headaches, head colds and nervous tension.

Scientific Information

Many constituents of rosemary vary depending on its environment and the season it is collected. The main components of the plan are flavonoids, phenolic acids and volatile oils (o.5 percent) The volatile oils give rosemary its antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Rosemary extracts have antioxidant properties comparable to those of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)(common preservatives in food). The constituents responsible for the antioxidant behavior are believed to be carnosol and/or its derivatives.

In animal studies carnosol and ursolic acid have exhibited inhibitory effects on experimentally induced skin tumors by protecting DNA. In the same studies, these substances also had antiinflammatory activity similar to other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents, which are potent inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism.

These observers suggest that the constituents of rosemary extract act synergistically to inhibit tumor promotion as rosemary extract had more significant effects than carnosol or ursolic acid alone.

SAGE

The actions associated with sage (Salvia officinalis) are stimulant, astringent (contracts tissues and invigorates the system), and carminative (relieves flatulence). Also known as a cleanser and purifier of the blood, sage is considered beneficial for liver complaints, kidney troubles, hemorrhage, pains in the joints, and nervous headaches. A lotion made from sage has been used to treat ulcers, heal raw abrasions on the skin and to darken hair.

Scientific Information

Sage contains volatile oils and flavonoids, which are responsible for its antimicrobial actions. It also contains tannins that give it astringent properties. The phenolic acids in sage make it a strong antioxidant. Sage reportedly has perspiration-inhibiting effects. It has been approved by the German Commission E to reduce excessive perspiration.

The information contained in this page lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Melatonin

Introduction

Melatonin is gaining recognition as a dietary supplement that can improve overall quality of life. This formula combines the hormone melatonin with the essential nutrient Vitamin E. Together, these components aid in the regulation of sleep patterns, combat aging, boost the immune system and protect cells from damaging free radicals.

Melatonin/Vitamin E Studies

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-Methoxytryptamine) is a hormone produced by the pineal gland, which is located near the center of the brain. Secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland is inhibited by environmental light and stimulated by darkness. This is a circular pattern of secretion that peaks around midnight and troughs late in the morning. Melatonin is responsible for regulating the body’s circadian rhythms, which control sleep patterns and other functions rotating on a 24-hour cycle. Because melatonin molecules are both lipophilic (lipid soluble) and hydrophilic (water soluble) it can act on a subcellular basis to affect intracellular organelles involved in neurotransmission, tonicity, immune functions and antioxidation.

A long-term case study of a patient with sleep-wake rhythms with a period of 25.1 hours reported that after 14 months of continuous use of exogenous melatonin his sleep-wake schedule stabilized to a near 24-hour schedule. Melatonin is becoming more and more widely accepted as a treatment for circadian rhythm sleep disorders. In fact, it has proven to be very effective in relating sleep patterns in blind people with no light perception. In addition, it is recommended for treating symptoms of jet lag.

Scientific studies indicate that melatonin is an effective free radical scavenger. It acts as an antioxidant to reduce the risks of cancer and prolong life expectancy. Several experiments with cancer patients reveal that administration of melatonin controls cancer cell proliferation and actually improves quality of life. Unlike other antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E, melatonin is produced by the body for protection against free radicals. However, studies reveal that production of melatonin decreases with age; thus as we get older we are in greater need of melatonin.

It is evident that the body’s immune responses decline as a result of the aging process. Experiments with mice confirmed that administration of melatonin elicits immune responses that normally would not occur in older subjects. Numerous studies reveal that melatonin plays a central role in immune system maintenance through a chain reaction mechanism which ultimately produces white blood cells. This reaction allows the body to protect itself from invasion by harmful bacteria and viruses. Studies with AIDS patients indicate that it slows replication of HIV and improves immune status.

Another risk factor increased with age is that of hear disease. Melatonin acts in several ways to reduce the risks of heart disease in aging adults. It has been scientifically proven to reduce blood cholesterol levels, reduce the tendency of clotting in blood platelets by as much as 85 percent, affect stabilization of heartbeat, and reduce hypertension.

Additional possible benefits of melatonin include prevention of cluster migraine headaches, anti-depression, prevention of ovulation and extension of life expectancy. In moderate dosage and proper timing of administration, melatonin has shown no negative side effects and does not lose effectiveness over time.

Vitamine E (alpha-tocopherol) is a nutrient essential in higher animals who have a large intake of polyunsaturated fats. The higher the intake of these fats, the higher the Vitamin E requirement. A bulk of Vitamin E is stored in muscles and fat tissue, but the highest concentrations are found in the pituitary gland, adrenal gland and the testes. It can be made synthetically or extracted from natural sources. Natural Vitamin E has been scientifically proven to have better effects than synthetically produced Vitamin E. For this combination, natural Vitamin E has been extracted from soybeans.

Vitamin E reduces the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) which can generate cell-damaging free radicals. Hence, it serves as an important antioxidant, prolonging the useful life of our cells, particularly red blood cells.

Vitamin E is highly recommended for patients with heart disease. Studies indicate that it slows the progression of heart disease by lowering insulin and triglyceride levels. In several cases of patients recovering from bypass surgery, those supplemented with Vitamin E had a higher chance of recovery than those without Vitamin E supplements. In addition, it reduces platelet aggregation and the risk of organ rejection in patients receiving transplants.

Deficiencies of Vitamin E have resulted in numerous harmful effects, including fat malabsorption syndromes, intermittent claudication (cramping pain and weakness in the legs association with poor blood circulation), anemia and premature aging and death of red blood cells. Adequate supplementation of Vitamin E reduces the risks of these effects.

Nitrosamine is a carcinogen formed by the body from byproducts of processed meats. Similar carcinogens are found in air pollutants and cigarette smoke. Vitamin E has shown to be protective against these carcinogens and is especially recommended as a dietary supplement for those who live in large cities where pollution is high.

Vitamin E has been experimentally proven to reduce the signs of aging. After six months of parenteral (introduced other than by the intestine) administration of Vitamin E subjects showed improvements in neurophysiological functions as well as disappearance of lipofuscin (fat-soluble pigments found in aged tissue) storage in skin biopsies. Vitamin E has also been demonstrated to reduce the risks of age-related diseases, including various cancers, Parkinson’s disease, and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

Melatonin Extra 3MG can be found in our web store at Jeannie's Herbs.

The information contained in this page lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Diabetes Type 2 News

Hello. This is the first news and newsletter from Jeannie's Herbs in a long time. There have been a lot of changes at Jeannie's Herbs, especially in the web store area. We have changed our whole store and invite you for a visit at Jeannie's Herbs New Store to see our new look. You will also notice that we are now selling most Nature's Sunshine items at wholesale prices and others at steep discounts. Enough about us.   Now for some real news about your health.

Diabetes Type 2 Part 1

Diabetes type 2 often occurs later in life and is sometimes called old-age-onset diabetes. This type of diabetes is often caused by insulin resistance. Insulin resistant diabetes is often referred to as hyperinsulinemia. In this case, the body makes sufficient amounts of insulin, but the cells become resistant  to the effects of insulin. The primary function of insulin is to trigger the cells to take in glucose and to reduce glucose in the blood. As cells become insulin resistant, it takes more and more insulin to trigger the cells to take in glucose.   As a result, insulin levels tend to go higher and higher in order to trigger the cells to take in glucose.   Glucose levels tend to be higher as well.  Extended high insulin and glucose levels are associated with liver damage, kidney damage, obesity, strokes, erectile dysfunction, heart problems, vascular diseases, and nerve damage. These are just a few of the problems.   Therefore, it is imperative to reduce both insulin levels and glucose levels to normal levels. There are many natural ways to help with this problem.   That’s what this newsletter addresses.

Diet and exercise are very important in the control of type 2 diabetes. The diet for type 2 diabetics should not include foods containing large amounts of sugar or high fructose corn syrup. Certain carbohydrates also cause blood glucose to spike and should be avoided. Caffeine intake should be reduced or eliminated because it contributes to insulin resistance.  Exercise is important because it helps the cells absorb glucose so they can release energy. If you are over weight, losing weight is very helpful in controlling diabetes. There are many places on the internet that have diet and exercise suggestions for diabetics.   This newsletter will concentrate on natural herbs and supplements that may help reduce blood glucose and insulin.

There are several herbs and supplements that can help with diabetes:

Nopal, or prickly pear cactus, is helpful in diabetes control because it contains carbohydrate fibers known as mucilage.   Mucilage does not dissolve in water, but it does absorb water. The mucilaginous fiber in Nopal can reduce glucose in the blood by inhibiting the intestinal uptake of glucose. Studies show that insulin concentrations are reduced with the administration of Nopal, and Nopal is thought to reach its maximum effect about three to four hours after eating a meal. Tests also show that taking Nopal can reduce cholesterol levels (not a bad side effect).   You can find the product Nopal on our website.

A common spice is now being used in diabetic programs.   This spice is Cinnamon.  In a 2004 study at the US Department of Agriculture's Human Nutrition Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland, Cinnamon was shown to reduce glucose levels in the blood. In another study in Pakistan, people with insulin resistant diabetes (who were not yet taking insulin), were given cinnamon --  in levels ranging from ¼ teaspoon to 1 ¾ teaspoons per day for 20 days.   All of the participants had reductions in glucose levels, but those taking the highest levels had longer term effects after the cinnamon was no longer used.   This herb also had a good side effect. All participants had lower levels of triglycerides at the end of the study. Those who took the higher amounts had more reduction in triglycerides than those on the lower levels.

Chromium is also helpful in reducing insulin resistance. It is said to increase the number of insulin receptors on the cells. The most common form of Chromium found in supplements is Chromium Picolinate, but there are some concerns about genetic damage with this product. A better form of Chromium is Chromium Nicotinate, but it is not found in very many supplements. Food sources of Chromium are green beans, broccoli, whole grains, some nuts, and potatoes. Since low levels of Chromium are often found in diabetics, Chromium supplementation might be helpful. One study showed that 200 micrograms or more per day of Chromium were needed to be effective.   Nature’s Sunshine has an outstanding Chromium product which we offer on our website.

Magnesium, another important mineral, is usually found to be deficient in diabetics.   Some diabetics have only half the magnesium levels of non-diabetics.  Magnesium is required for several enzymes that are used in glucose metabolism. This link would be a strong argument for magnesium supplementation for all diabetics.    A good Magnesium product is available on our website.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is another supplement of high value in insulin resistant diabetics.  An April 2003 study by the Mayo Clinic discovered that Alpha Lipoic Acid reduces pain and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy (caused by nerve damage from diabetes).  There is also evidence of improved kidney function with the use of Alpha Lipoic Acid.   Alpha Lipoic Acid is available on our website.  

Another herb for Diabetes is Fenugreek.   Fenugreek seeds, when taken with or after a meal, help reduce blood glucose levels in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Although fenugreek seeds have a bitter taste, you can find the product in capsule form. In one study it was found that fenugreek lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides – a very good side effect!

Fenugreek is present in Nature’s Sunshine SugarReg formula.   Fenugreek should not be taken during pregnancy, or by very young children.

Gymnema Sylvestre is an herb that has been used in India and Asia for many years to help treat diabetes. Some modern studies have shown Gymnema Sylvestre to help reduce insulin requirements and lower blood glucose. In one study patients were given 400 mg. of Gymnema Sylvestre extract per day. Patients with both type 2 and type 1 diabetes had reduced levels of blood glucose and triglycerides at the end of the study. In a study with diabetic rats, Gymnema Sylvestre help to regenerate cells in the pancreas which control insulin production.   Gymnema Sylvestre is present in Nature’s Sunshine SugarReg formula.  

Vanadium is a trace mineral that has been shown to reduce blood glucose in type 2 diabetics, but as yet has not been shown to help type 1 diabetics.   Vanadium is present in Nature’s Sunshine SugarReg formula.

Caution – if you are taking insulin or other drugs to control diabetes, and you plan to start taking herbs or other natural products, you should have your condition closely monitored by your health care provider because your medication requirements may change rapidly as you begin a more natural treatment.

On part 2 we will explore natural options for helping with some of the long term effects of diabetes such as eye problems, slow wound healing, and nerve damage.

To find the products we carry, simply use the search function near the top left of the page on our web store. A list of all products that contain the searched item will be generated.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this newsletter is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Diabetes Type 2, Part 2

One thing we did not mention in Part 1 is a natural alternative to sugar for those diabetics with a sweet tooth. This product is called Stevia and it can be found in both liquid and powdered form at most health food stores. The powdered form can be found at Jeannie’s Herbs web store. This natural product is many times sweeter than sugar, but does not raise the blood glucose level as sugar does.

As we stated in "Diabetes Type 2, Part 1," we will explore natural options for helping with some of the long term effects of diabetes: including diabetic neuropathy, cataracts, retinal damage, accelerated aging, erectile dysfunction in men, heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis.

Diabetic Neuropathy is thought to be caused by kidney damage as a result of long term diabetes. It is sometimes called peripheral neuropathy. In this condition the nerves do not communicate as effectively as they should. This is characterized by pain, tingling, numbness, or itchiness, often in the feet or legs, but may be in the arms or other places as well. Natural remedies for neuropathy include: Astaxanthin, Astragalus, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E.

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in some algae. In one test, using mice, it was found to reduce kidney damage and help prevent more nerve damage. It can be found in only one product at Jeannie’s Herbs, Carotenoid Blend.

Astragalus was also discovered to have protective effects on the kidneys and to lower blood glucose in diabetic rats. Any protection or support of the kidneys is thought to also help with neuropathy.

The anti-oxidant characteristics of Vitamin C and Vitamin E have also been shown to reduce kidney damage as well as help in the prevention of cataracts.

Diabetic Retinopathy and cataracts are two problems of the eye that often result from long term diabetes. Retinopathy is the term for damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina of the eye and is one leading cause of blindness. Natural remedies for Retinopathy include: Genistein, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Isoflavones, and Ginkgo Biloba.

In one study, Genistein and soy isoflavones helped improve blood circulation in the retinas of women with diabetic retinopathy. These two remedies are combined in Phyto-Soy which is available at Jeannie's Herbs.

Ginkgo Biloba was shown to increase blood flow in tiny blood vessels in the retina in Type 2 diabetics.

Cataracts are also prevalent in Type 2 diabetics. Natural substances that help with cataracts are: Alpha Lipoic Acid, Bilberry, Eyebright, Quercetin, Cysteine, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B2. Many of these products are included in a formula named Perfect Eyes, which is available at Jeannie’s Herbs.

Accelerated aging is caused by many factors, but one primary factor is oxidative stress. Herbs and vitamins that have high anti-oxidant properties can help delay the aging caused by oxidative stress. The include Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Bilberry, and Alpha Lipoic Acid, which helps the anti-oxidant properties of other herbs and vitamins.

Heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis are all associated with free radical damage to blood vessels and organs. This free radical damage can be improved by using the same herbs and anti-oxidants used for retinopathy, cataracts, and anti-aging. Other beneficial products are Omega-3 fatty acids, Lecithin, Mega-Chel, and Butcher’s Broom. Butcher’s Broom is especially helpful for blood circulation in the legs.

Most of the same remedies used for heart attacks, strokes and atherosclerosis are also helpful for Erectile Dysfunction. Two other beneficial herbs are Saw Palmetto and Suma. Suma can be found in SUMA Combination at Jeannie’s Herbs. Saw Palmetto is found in several Men’s Formulas at Jeannie’s Herbs.

Since most of these problems result from long term effects of diabetes, it may take a long time to improve or reverse them.

Caution – if you are taking insulin or other drugs to control diabetes, and you plan to start taking herbs or other natural products, you should have your condition closely monitored by your health care provider because your medication requirements may change rapidly as you begin a more natural treatment.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this newsletter is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Wild Yam

Slippery Elm

Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) is a large tree that grows up to 60 feet tall. It is found in the central and northern United States from Maine to the Dakotas, south to Texas and east to Florida. The bark is collected in large quantities, especially in lower Michigan, and has been used for medicinal purposes for over 100 years in the U.S.

Traditional Use

Slippery elm’s traditional use dates back 1,000 years. In the Eastern and Mediterranean parts of the world, physicians as early as the first century prescribed slippery elm baths to speed the healing of broken bones, a prescription that survived 1500 years. Slippery elm was first mentioned in Chinese medical literature at the time of the Shen Nung Pen Tsao Ching.

Seventeenth century English herbalist Nicholas Culpepper prescribed the herb for broken bones, burns, wounds and to restore hair to bald spots. However, slippery elm bark was not a popular medicinal herb among the Europeans until the American settlers discovered its values.

Slippery elm was used by roughly a dozen northwestern American Indian tribes. The Ojibwa tribe treated sore throat with a tea made from the inner bark. Indians of the Missouri River valley cooked slippery elm bark with buffalo fat to prevent rancidity. Colonists found other tribes using it as a food and to treat wounds, sore throat, coughs and even mastitis (inflamed breasts).

Once the colonists recognized the medicinal value of the plant, it became popular among them as well. One early frontiersman said that one could subsist a great deal of time solely on the bark of slippery elm. It was often eaten as a nutritious gruel similar to oatmeal by convalescents and babies. In 1859 a physician wrote, “Slippery elm, the inner bark of which is one of the most useful medical agents we have…so important an article that it may be had at almost any drug store now.”

By the time of the Civil War, slippery elm was being used to treat syphilis, gonorrhea and hemorrhoids. Slippery elm sore throat lozenges were found in almost every home medicine cabinet and the herb was the nation’s most popular home remedy for anything needing soothing.

Scientific Information

The actions associated with slippery elm are demulcent, emollient, nutrient, antitussive and mild astringent. Its main indication is for inflammation or ulcerations of the gastrointestinal tract. Esophagitis, gastritis, colitis, diarrhea and gastric or duodenal ulcers are soothed by the herb. Because of its nutritional value, it is also used as a food in wasting diseases.

Slippery elm contains polysaccharides, starches, tannins, two polyuronides, calcium oxalate. The soothing effects of the herb are due to its high content of mucilage, a gelatinous substance that swells in water to form a soothing coating for inflamed or irritated mucous membranes.

In addition to its traditionally popular soothing effects, slipper elm may also have antimicrobial effects. Studies report that preparations of the herb have antiherpetic and antisyphilitic activity.

Due to regulations concerning labeling, the FDA has prevented the selling of most herbs as over-the-counter drugs. However, slippery elm is one of the few that is sold to treat sore throats and inflammations of the oral cavity.

INTRODUCTION

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a highly valued legume forage. It has been heralded as having the highest feeding value of all commonly grown hay crops. Alfalfa is technically a member of the pea family. The plant was used by Arabs as feed for horses because they claimed it made their horses swift and strong. They named the herb al-fal-fa, which means "father of all foods."

The deep taproot system of alfalfa combined with man's ability to harvest and preserve it for animal feed has made alfalfa a commonly cultivated crop. Currently there are some 80 million acres worldwide devoted to growing alfalfa (some 27 million acres in the U.S. alone).

Alfalfa has been utilized in folk medicine for centuries as a cure all for all inflammations, including rheumatism and arthritis. Besides its use as a general tonic, it has also been employed as a hypoglycemic (reduces blood glucose levels). The plant is also a traditional and popular additive to herbal teas. The combination of alfalfa and mint tea has historically been used to soothe and aid the process of digestion.

SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION

The deep rooting system of alfalfa allows the plant to glean nutrients from deep under the topsoil. This nutritional feeding system provides the plant with many nutrients. Alfalfa contains protein, fat, beta-carotene, vitamin E, vitamins B1, B2, C, D and K, isoflavonoid phytoalexins, isoflavone phytoestrogens, and the alkaloids asparagine and trigonelline. The plant is a rich source of chlorophyll and serves as the largest commercial source of chlorophyll.     

Several studies have indicated that the ingestion of alfalfa reduces cholesterol absorption and atherosclerotic plaque formation in animals. Alfalfa plant saponins and fiber have been shown to bind significant quantities of cholesterol in vitro. In one study, cholesterol-fed rats actually had a decrease in liver cholesterol accumulation when concomitantly fed alfalfa. By providing a mild antithrombotic effect from its ooumarin derivatives, alfalfa further aids the circulatory system.

Alfalfa's blood-purifying properties have been attributed to its high chlorophyll content. In fact, it is probably due not only to chlorophyll but also several other components. It appears that alfalfa works on inflammation (arthritis, rheumatism) and as a general tonic by removing toxins from the blood. High molecular weight alcohols (triacontanol, octaconsanol) reduce cholesterol and serum lipids, while the flavonoids relax the smooth muscles. The alkaloids help reduce blood sugar levels and the saponins support the digestive system by helping to balance the intestinal flora.

The high amount of beta-carotene in alfalfa acts to strengthen epithelial cells of the mucous membranes of the stomach, and could be the source for its beneficial effect on ulcers. Extracts of alfalfa have also been shown to produce activity against Gram-positive bacteria.

The information contained in this newsletter lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.
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ACIDOPHILUS

Many times what we perceive is not always in accordance with reality. In this day and age of antibiotics and antibacterial soaps we are waging an all out war against bacteria. But, in fact, we have billions of “good” bacteria that live inside of us. We provide these bacteria with a good home, and they digest our food into easily absorbed nutrients. But these bacteria can have an even greater effect on our health. They have been shown to reduce bacterial infections, reduce fungal infections, lower cholesterol, reduce cancer risk, enhance the immune system, improve digestion and relieve constipation and diarrhea. This product provides a healthy dose of “good” bacteria in the form of Lactobacillus acidophilus.

SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION

Our introduction to “friendly” bacteria begins with birth. It has been found that we receive our first bacteria as we pass through the birth canal. From birth on, these bacteria establish themselves as a natural part of our intestinal flora and aid us with digestion of proteins, providing biocatalytic B vitamins, producing lipases for fat digestion and production and/or augmentation of immune bodies critical for a strong immune system.

The bacteria that naturally inhabit our intestinal tract act as very efficient antibacterials and antifungals. This effect is exerted on “bad” bacteria and fungi that do not normally reside there. This occurs in two different ways: 1) by “crowding out” unfriendly microorganisms (not allowing these microorganisms enough room to colonize), and 2) by producing several compounds which kill these microorganisms. The compounds produced include hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid and a natural antibiotic called acidophilin. It has been shown that administration of lactobacilli can reduce the occurrence of urinary and vaginal infections.

Studies have also found that supplementation with L. acidophilus helps alleviate the effects of lactose intolerance (milk and dairy product intolerance), including the side-effects of bad breath, bloating, gas formation and stomach cramps. Another study found a reduction in the serum cholesterol of people with a proper supplementation of healthy bacteria. These effects are directly related to the friendly bacteria. The bacteria break down cholesterol and mild products in the gut.

A very promising aspect for these good bacteria is in the areas of cancer, cancer prevention and enhancing the immune system. These bacteria have been shown to be able to break down carcinogenic material before it has a chance to be absorbed. Having the proper bacteria in the intestine also aids gastric transit time, which allows toxic material to travel through and be excreted faster. In addition, it has been found that these bacteria can reduce the size of some cancerous tumors. These bacteria have also been shown to aid production of immune bodies which helps protect our general health.

Having an ample supply of good bacteria in our system also helps regulate our bowel function. People develop diarrhea following a course of antibiotics because the antibiotics kill the good bacteria as well as the bad. Many times a case of diarrhea or constipation can be attributed to a change in the balance of the intestinal flora. Regular supplementation with friendly bacteria has been shown to regulate bowel function (reduce episodes of diarrhea and constipation) and has even been found to control severe cases of diarrhea.

The information contained in this page lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) is an erect perennial plant that has wooly stems and spreading, leafy branches. It grows wild in waste places and can be easily propagated. Marshmallow root used to be the main ingredient in the white, sweet, spongy marshmallows we buy at the grocery store, but it is no longer used for that purpose.

Traditional Uses:

Marshmallow is a plant that has served many cultures as a medicine and as a food. The Greek physician Hippocrates described its value in the treatment of wounds, and it has been used for hundreds of years as a wound healer. Another Greek physician, Dioscorides, prescribed its use for toothaches and insect stings. Horace wrote about the laxative properties of the roots and leaves. During the Renaissance, herbalists also used marshmallow for sore throats, stomach problems, gonorrhea, leukorrhea, and to treat mouth infections.

Scientific Information:

Marshmallow’s highest medicinal actions are as a demulcent and an emollient. The plant contains 25 to 35 percent mucilage, and a similar quantity of starch. It also contains about 10 percent each of pectin and sugars. Some herbalists assert that marshmallow may be the best nutritive tonic herb in western herbalism.

Because of the mucilage content, internally the plant has a soothing effect on inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal and respiratory tract. The mucilage forms a protective coating on inflamed mucous membranes, soothing inflammation and healing mucosal afflictions. The German Health Office acknowledges the medicinal effect of marshmallow, specifically its ability to soothe inflammation. Due to its high mucilage content, marshmallow can be useful in the management of sore throats and coughs, bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, etc. In Germany, marshmallow teas are commonly sold for such purposes.

Marshmallow can also relieve inflammation and irritation of the genitourinary (GI) tract. The plant is used for various ailments – cystitis, incontinence, painful urination, gonorrhea, enteritis, diarrhea and dysentery. Like other viscous fibers, marshmallow has the ability to absorb toxins in the bowel and allows the body to cleanse itself. Marshmallow can also relax the urinary passages and relieve pain in cases of retention of urine. Another benefit that marshmallow provides the GI tract is as a treatment for gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Because of its soothing properties, marshmallow can also be helpful in cases of skin irritation. Combinations of marshmallow extracts mixed with steroids have been used in the management of dermatologic conditions. The plant appears to possess anti-inflammatory activity that potentiates the effect of topical steroids.

Safety:

Marshmallow has a long history of use and is not associated with any significant toxicity. No risks are known.

The information contained in this page lists historical uses of herbs and is for educational purposes only. This information should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have a serious health problem, consult your doctor or professional health practitioner.

Black Walnut

The black walnut (Juglans nigra) has a long background in folk medicine and is famous for its cleansing properties. Black Walnut is a deciduous hardwood tree, growing 60-90 feet tall with a diameter of three to six feet. The tree grows in Canada, the United States, Europe and parts of Asia. Traditionally, the roots, leaves and hulls of the plant have been thought to be of medicinal value. This formula employs the unripe hulls of the fruit, which are high in vitamin C.

Traditional Use

Historically, the early Greeks and Romans treated cutaneous (skin) fungal infections with black walnut. Gerard’s Herbal (1597) and the Chinese Grand Materia Medica (1596) both describe remedies using this herb. The Chinese employed Juglans nigra in lumbago (pain in the mid to lower back), asthma, beriberi, impotence, and constipation. Native Americans and Asians expelled worms using black walnut. Reportedly, the Chinese were able to use it to kill tapeworms. Folk remedies use black walnut to aid with tuberculosis, diarrhea, female disorders, sore throat, and lung disease. The herb promotes healing of sores in the mouth and throat, as well as digestion. Other diseases traditionally treated with the herb include syphilis, ulcers, liver congestion, and ringworm (external application). It acts as an astringent (contracts tissues and checks the discharge of blood or mucous) and vermifuge (expels parasites).

Scientific Info

Black Walnut hulls contain high amounts of a class of compounds called tannins, which produce the herb’s ability to destroy or expel intestinal worms. Along with tannins, some other quinone compounds such as juglandin, juglone, and juglandic acid, may also be involved.

At the University of Missouri in the 1960’s, scientists found that a component of black walnut hulls – ellagic acid – lowers blood pressure and prevents other blood pressure lowering agents from further reducing blood pressure. They also found ellagic acid produced sedation and protected mice from death after a normally lethal degree of electroconvulsive shock. Another finding from the same research group was that several black walnut constituents inspire anti-tumor activity.

Black Walnut hulls are high in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). They contain 0.3 to 2.5 percent, depending on their stage of development. Industrial methods were once developed to recover ascorbic acid from waste walnut hulls, but they have never been utilized due to the seasonal availability of waste hulls and monetary constrictions.

In a study done with black walnut, extracts of ether taken from unripe black walnut hulls sedated the movements of leopard frogs, fish, mice, rats and rabbits. One purified compound, juglone, also had a calming or sedative effect on all species. In an anesthetized cat, the extracts had a vasodepressor effect (lowered blood pressure).

Bee pollen is the pollen collected and stored by honeybees in their hives. Pollen and other bee products have been used by man for millennia. It has been used, over time, to treat many different ailments, but has proven most effective for strength, energy, endurance, weight loss and to boost the immune system. Bee pollen has been described as the “perfect food,” since it contains virtually all the essential nutrients that are necessary to sustain life. It is the perfect supplement to any diet, especially the nutritionally unbalanced and deficient diets that most of us consume. Bee pollen can help bring our nutritional stance back into balance, which leads to better health and a longer and fuller life.

 Traditional Use

The recorded use of bee pollen as a food source dates back centuries, and the actual use of bee pollen by humans probably goes much farther back than that. The Chinese emperor Shen Nung (circa 2735 B.C.) listed bee pollen and other bee products in his impressive medical collection. Many ancient records such as Egyptian papyri list bee pollen as exceptionally beneficial and worthy as a sacred offering to the gods. Roman legions carried dry cakes of bee pollen with them for the food and energy they required. The Romans were so respectful of the properties of bee pollen that they made Virgil the official poet laureate of the honeybee.

 The great physician Hippocrates utilized bee pollen for several different ailments. The ancient Greeks believed that honey and pollen were the food of kings and delivered youth and vitality. Bee pollen is recorded in almost every religious record including the Bible, Talmud, Torah, Koran and the Code of Islam.

 Scientific Information

The most common way to collect bee pollen is to have the bees enter the hive through a portal partially obstructed with wire mesh, thus brushing off the collected material from the hind legs to a collection bin. Most analysis reports of bee pollen identify almost 100 different vitamins, minerals, enzymes, co-enzymes and amino acids. A partial breakdown of the pollen reveals approximately 30 percent protein, 55 percent carbohydrate, 1 to 2 percent fat and 3 percent minerals and trace vitamins. Vitamin E concentrations of 3.6 to 5.9 percent have been identified in different pollen samples. Samples can vary due to the different geographic areas that the bees roam and gather pollen.

 Bee pollen’s reputation as the “perfect food” is an excellent description indeed, due to the fact that it contains all the nutrients essential for life. Scientific studies have found that a person can live indefinitely on a diet of bee pollen and water alone. In fact, one researcher raised several generations of mice on nothing but bee pollen. In another test, mice fed bee pollen exclusively, extended their life span to a minimum of 22.6 months, which is nearly double their normal life expectancy.

 Athletes have used bee pollen to help increase their strength, endurance, energy and speed. The sugars in bee pollen are predigested, so they convert easily to glycogen, which provides a constant energy supply. Researchers studying track runners supplemented with bee pollen found that they had a quicker recovery time after exercise and concluded that bee pollen would therefore be of value in relieving common tiredness and lack of energy. This constant supply of energy also enables the body to utilize calories more efficiently, which allows for a natural weight reduction.

 Perhaps the greatest benefit derived from bee pollen is for people who suffer from allergies. The bee pollen reduces allergenicity in allergy sufferer’s and in people with asthma by strengthening the immune system. The exact mechanism of action for this effect is not fully understood. It would seem that a person allergic to pollen should not take pollen. However, the effects of inhaled pollen versus ingested pollen are completely different. The ingested pollen boosts the immune system and seems to desensitize those people with allergies.

 Bee pollen has also been used for arthritis, heart disease, bowel and prostate problems, depression and cancer. At this point not much research has been done concerning bee pollen’s application in these areas.

 Warning

An estimated 0.05 percent of the general population exhibits an extreme allergic reaction to bee pollen. In some individuals it is extensive enough to make it life threatening. For this reason it is recommended to begin with small doses of bee pollen (perhaps 1/4 of the contents of one capsule). Watch for signs of allergic reaction: rash, wheezing, discomfort, etc. If these signs occur, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.