Herbs For Protection

If you have never used plant matter in magic before, I explain in detail in the column Plants, Herbs and Roots for Prosperity the different ways these substances can be practically used in rituals and everyday practice. In brief, the main methods of using plant material to summon protection are: carrying the substance on your person in a locket or a sachet, boiling the herb and sprinkling the residual water around your residence, putting a sprig of it under your bed or pillow, bathing in a distillation of it or burning it as incense. Also with love attracting, just keeping the living plant in your house can help increase your vibrations.

Below I have detailed where an herb can be used for a specific protective purpose.

Herb

Ague Weed: A bath in this herb is alleged to banish evil spirits. This herb is also known as Boneset.

Herbs For Protection

Agrimony: Is burned or sprinkled around the house to send bad spirits back to the sender.

Angelica: Worn on the person to protect from evil spirits, however a drawback of this herb is that it also may protect you from opportunities. Used formally in rites of exorcism to get rid of bad spirits. Brew into a tea it and sprinkle in the corners of a house to protect from evil spirits. It is also warn on the person in a locket or sachet for personal protection.

Anise: Stuffed under a pillow it protects from nightmares.

Ash: The branches can be shaken and rattled like a wand to cleanse a place of bad energy.

Asafoetida: Kept in a potpourri or burned for protection.

Bergamot: Usually used for money, but some sources say it can be used for personal protection and to attract good spirits as well.

Borage: Place in an area that is suspicious it is said to make the truth come out or have dishonesty, plots or secrets revealed.

Broom Tops: Boiled in salt water to keep evil spirits and ghosts away.

Caraway: Carry the seeds on your person to protect from disease and ill health. A few seeds in the clothing of a loved one are said to protect your marriage from infidelity.

Carnations: A bouquet of fresh or dried blossoms is said to protect the home and family from rivals and attackers of all sorts.

Camphor: Worn as a balm it is used to ward off physical attack or unwanted advances from others.

Cedar: The boughs or incense are burnt to protect the home from spirits. It also protects those in deep meditation or doing rituals from picking up unwanted energies and astral attack. It is toxic to reptiles and birds, however, so you should be careful using it if you have either as pets.

Coriander: Burn as an incense or wear the seeds on your person to protect against attack. Helps keep friends and lovers from accidents.

Deersbane: Burned to reveal bad energy or tell one the source of bad energy.

Dill: Sprinkle in a corner of a children's room to protect them from harm.

Elder: A highly protective tree whose branches are burnt or kept in the home to save residents from accidents and attacks of all kinds.

Eucalyptus: Burnt in the home to protect the health from viruses, disease and plagues.

Geranium: Live bouquets, oil and incense are kept in the home to protect the family against attacks of all kinds and also disease. Worn as an oil to protect the health.

Heather: The sprigs are worn on the person or kept in the house to protect from evil spirits and unwanted attentions.

Lavender: Use a fresh bouquet, dried flowers, oil, perfume or incense to protect and shield your person and home from bad vibrations and negative people.

Marjoram: Sprinkled in the house for protection against accidents, burglars and unwanted visitors.

Myrtle: A sprig is kept above the front door for protection.

Motherwort: Burned or kept in sachets or lockets on the person for personal protection.

Pennyroyal: Burned to protect against domestic abuse and violence in the home.

Pine: A wreath of pine protects from bad spirits and attracts good spirits. The incense clears spaces of bad vibrations.

Snakeroot: Used to banish a person or thing from a home.

Rue: Rue Candles are burned for protection and the herb is burned to rid a space of bad thought forms and malevolent energies.

Slippery Elm: Place the herb in the place where you wish to get rid of slander or gossip. It may also be burned while sending bad thoughts back to the sender.

Vetivert: Wear the oil to protect yourself when you go out in dangerous or iffy situations.

Herbs For Protection

Samantha Steven's articles have been published in many high-standing newspapers and she has published several books. If you wish to buy Samantha's books about metaphysics click here http://www.insomniacpress.com/author.php?id=110 You can meet Samantha Stevens at http://www.psychicrealm.com where she works as a professional psychic. You can also read more of her articles at http://www.newagenotebook.com

Garden Herb Planter - For Indoor and Outdoor Gardens

Herb gardens are becoming the definitive choice of more and more gardeners because it provides for their cooking needs. A garden herb planter is important if you want to add aesthetic value to the indoor or outdoor herb garden you are growing. You can find differently sized and designed planters available in your local garden shops as well as online.

A garden herb planter will come in many different designs which would go well both indoors and outdoors. Some people have problems with indoor gardening because they might not have a lot of space in their kitchen. A great solution to that problem is a stackable herb planter like Stack-A-Pots' mini garden stacker, available in Amazon for .99. This is self-watering and can hold nine or more plants. It includes a hanging chain and it's both stackable and hangable. The product measures approximately 2 ft. tall with a diameter of 11". It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use but it will be perfect for indoor gardening because of its space-saving design. You can choose from 4 available colors like terra cotta and stone, plus the purchase would come with a 1-year limited warranty. It is also an ideal gift for a friend with a green thumb.

Herb

If you have a modern-styled home or kitchen, you would need a contemporary looking garden herb planter to go along with it. The Chiasso Mesa Herb Planter is available online in the Chiasso website for . This has a sleek and simple modern design which comes with 3 metallic small pots and a tray. This great garden equipment is made of lead-free aluminum and measures 3.5" (pot), 13.5" L x 4.5" W x 3" D (tray). It is designed with no drainage holes and gravel or sand is recommended to use for drainage. Its compact size would make it easy to place in window sills or small kitchen counters and centers. It is perfect to use for any kind of herb seed. Chiasso is a great source of modern-designed furniture, tool and décor for your home. There are other choices of stylish planters and vases that you can select from.

Garden Herb Planter - For Indoor and Outdoor Gardens

Another popular brand you can use as a garden herb planter is Oxford Garden. This English wood planter measures 15" high and 15" square and available in Amazon for 9.99. It is made of Shorea, which is a lot like Teak but more heavy and dense. It comes in 5 pre-assembled pieces that is designed for easy assembly and removable bottom. Aside from herbs, It can also be used for growing fruits like tomato or flowering plants. You can also buy this in a set of 3 garden planters, which comes in different sizes and costs around 0.

Since it takes some space, it would be best to use for outdoor gardens. For those with smaller kitchen and indoor spaces, opt for mini-planters or the newly popular aero gardening system which also works well for growing different kinds of herbs. The right garden herb planter will not just help your plants grow healthy and strong, it will also add color and style to your living space whether indoors or outdoors. Your garden will be much more attractive with the perfect planter box. Enjoy comparing your options and find the ideal planter for your herbs.

Garden Herb Planter - For Indoor and Outdoor Gardens

These are just a few of the options in an herb garden planter.

Next, discover how the different types of garden supplies at www.gardenhelpunlimited.com [http://www.gardenhelpunlimited.com/] that can really save you time and money.

New Herbs in WoW Cataclysm

In World of Warcraft, Cataclysm, players will have access to four new types of herbs. In this article, I will be revealing the different herbs along with where they are most commonly found.

One of the most common herbs is Cinderbloom. This is the lowest level herb of the group. It is used in common low-level Alchemy recipes and can be found in practically any area that is fiery in nature. The most common place to get it is in Mount Hyjal on the outskirts of Sulfuron's Spire.

Herb

Next up on the list is Stormvine. Stormvine is one of the rarest herbs in Cataclysm as it does not have many spawn points. There are a few areas in the northern part of Mount Hyjal at have spawn points. It can only be found in grassy areas. The Twilight Highlands is also a good place to look for it.

New Herbs in WoW Cataclysm

Since Stormvine is fairly rare and is still one of the lower-level herbs, it will be fairly expensive and is not likely to be useful when it comes to milling it for Inscription.

One of the most annoying herbs to get in Cataclysm is Azshara's Veil, which only grows under the water. The richest zones for it are the new underwater zones home of Lady Azshara. While it spawns richly underwater, the fact that your character moves so slowly under water does not make it good for farming.

The highest-level as well as the most common herb in Cataclysm is Heartblossom. The best place to farm this herb is without a doubt in Deepholm. It spawns literally everywhere and you cannot take more than a few steps without running into a few dozen spawns of this herb.

Since there is so much Heartblossom in Cataclysm and it is also the highest level herb, players are likely to make this their herb of choice when milling for inks. You can get the uncommon qualities of ink with more regularity when milling this herb.

That is all for the new herbs in Cataclysm. Note that there is no equivalent of Frost Lotus in Cataclysm and that most potions and flasks simply require a lot more of the basic types of herbs. The end result of this is that flasks are a lot more likely to be expensive in Cataclysm, so if you are an alchemist you will likely profit off of this change in events.

New Herbs in WoW Cataclysm

For some new gold-making strategies, be sure to visit this wow schools review. If you want to level up quickly in Cataclysm, I recommend this Zygors guide review which contains some of the best secrets for ranking up from 1 to 85 on the fastest time possible.

Serenity Herbs

Serenity - that calm soothing sensation that we catch glimpses of every once in awhile in the hectic, fast paced lives. Sometimes wishing for even five minutes to do nothing. What does this tranquility search have to do with herbs for everyday health? A healthy body includes a healthy mind and spirit. Herbs can play a huge role in physical, mental and emotional well being creating a healthy body in all three aspects.

Using herbs simply just for restorative health benefits alone misses the true value. The Japanese have long recognized the need to celebrate the person when using herbs best seen through the elaborate tea ceremony. The making and drinking of any herbal tea should almost me a ritual in itself to obtain the full value of the herb. Many herbs actually contain properties that can assist in the dissipation of tension and promote relaxation. Whether the herbs are used as an herbal tea remedy or as an aromatherapy. In either method, the herb itself is only part of the process. How a person processes the herb has a lot to do with how they prepare it. Enjoying the aroma of tea steeping, the sounds of water boiling, or even the sound of running water mixed with the aromatic smells should all be part of the process. It is the slowing down part that promotes and allows the herbs to work their "magic".

Herb

For most, slowing down is an art form lost long ago. When we are stressed or nervous and filled with tension, to sit down an enjoy even savor a cup of tea is part of caring for our bodies as well as our minds and spirits. There are some herbs that actually promote the process of calming down and relaxing.

Serenity Herbs

Chamomile since the early 19th century has been used to calm the nerves and promote deep relaxation.

Lavender can be used both as a tea and as aromatherapy. It works to calm the entire nervous system.

Lemon balm can calm tension filled muscles and aid in sleep when insomnia strikes. It can also relieve those tension headaches either as a tea or in a hot bath.

Oatstraw is popular for tension headaches, sleeplessness, and nervous exhaustion. Its mild sedative properties make for a wonderful sleepy time tea.

Passionflower also has sedation properties when drank as a tea. It also can relieve many of the symptoms of PMS.

Skullcap is known to nourish the nervous system and the tea can relieve tension headaches, anxiety and exhaustion.

All of these herbs can promote tranquility and create an atmosphere within that is calm and serene. Take you time. Whether you are preparing a tea or a bath, allow yourself to be part of the process. Light some candles and practice some deep breathing. The herbs can promote but you need to promote as well.

Serenity Herbs

Bright blessings,
Ashira
http://www.ashira.ws
ashira@ashira.ws
Ashira is a Practicing Pagan for over 15 years. Currently she is a featured columnist at http://Asknow.com
The Witches' Child Author
Bacon Bits Author
FFWA Member
Cassel Network of Writers Member

Mint Herb

Mint herb varieties are almost countless but there a few worth consideration when choosing which herbs to plant in your garden. Mint is native to the Mediterranean and Western Asia. Early settlers brought it to America mostly for medicinal purposes but it quickly became a symbol of hospitality. One cannot think of the South without imagining ladies and gentleman sipping their Mint Juleps while rocking in their chairs on the veranda on a warm summer day.  

Mentha spicata, Spearmint for drinks, and Mentha pipperata, Peppermint for drinks and desserts, are the most common species found in herb gardens but look also for Garden Mint for general culinary purposes, Chocolate Mint, for desserts, and Pineapple Mint for salads and cooking.  

Herb

Mint is a pretty flowering edible herb which grows well in most soils as long as it stays moist, not wet or soaking. Mulching is a great way to retain moisture which the herb enjoys. It tolerates partial shade as well as full sun. It grows so well in fact, it may just take over your garden and crowd out other plants if you are not careful to keep it in check. Most mint herb varieties can grow 2 to 3 feet high. As your herb flowers, remove them by hand otherwise they will reduce the amount of leaves your plant will grow.   To harvest your mint herb, cut the leaves as you need them. Start with the top leaves to encourage the plant to shoot new leaves further down its stem. You can dry the leaves for later use but this does cause it to loose some flavor.  

Mint Herb

There are many culinary delights you can enjoy with mint:  

Tea: Add a handful of fresh, clean spearmint or peppermint leaves to boiling water. Remove from heat and let steep for 2-3 minutes. Add honey if desired.  

Eggs: Chopped mint is a favorite to add to eggs whether they be scrambled, fried, or made into an omelet or quiche. You can also add it to egg substitutes.  

Salads: Fresh mint leaves added to any salad gives it a fresh, lively flavor. Try pineapple mint in Greek salads or Tabbouleh.  

Jello: Pour the hot Jello mixture into the container it will be chilled in and before it goes into the refrigerator, steep several mint herb leaves in the hot liquid for 5 minutes. Remove the leaves and refrigerate as usual. You will taste the fresh flavor of the leaves in the Jello. Use Chocolate mint in any chocolate dessert.  

Vegetables: Add chopped mint to any steamed vegetable at the end of the cooking process for a peppy flavor.  

Traditional Mint Julep:  

5 fresh mint leaves

1 1/4 teaspoon sugar

2 tablespoons cold water

Crushed ice

2 ounces Kentucky Bourbon  

Put 4 mint leaves, sugar and water into a highball glass. Crush the mint leaves with the back of a spoon and stir, dissolving the sugar. Add the bourbon and lots of crushed ice. Stir gently to mix and garnish with the last leaf. Add a short straw and enjoy on the front porch with friends!

Mint Herb

Ginny Greene is an herb garden enthusiast. Visit Herb Garden Center for more expert advice on planting, growing and using herbs in cooking, crafts and home remedies.

Constipation - The Herbs Most Often Used

Constipation is very readily treated by a number of herbal remedies. Unless there are major complications - such as the presence of cancer or there having been an operation on the bowel - it is very rare to find someone who will not respond to herbal treatment for constipation extremely successfully.

There are a number of herbs considered, but one herb stands head and shoulders above the others. I will tell you below which herb that is.

Herb

When constipation is present there are several ways in which herbs can be helpful:

Constipation - The Herbs Most Often Used

1. Some herbs provide bulk which help the stools pass more easily

2. Other herbs contain 'anthroquinone glycosides' which stimulate the peristalsis - earthworm-like movements of the bowel - stimulate bowel muscle,stimulate the peristalsis - earthworm-like movements of the bowel, help the muscles of the bowel to move the waste matter along. They are generally for short-term use only.

3. Happily there is one 'miracle' herb which can have a fantastic effect on constipation - it will usually banish it forever. This herb is called CASCARA SAGRADA. However there are certain conditions to its use which must be followed to get this result; firstly it must be used at a low dose; secondly it must be combined with certain other herbs; and thirdly the resulting formula must be taken with every meal and for every day until the cure is effected. See below for more detail on this great herb and the well-proven formula containing it.

1. Herbs For Bulk

These herbs provide a large amount of fibre or mucilage. This bulks up the waste matter in the colon helping to make the stools pass more easily. This happens because of a reflex action in the bowel.

Herbs in this category include PSYLLIUM HUSKS, LINSEEDS AND FENUGREEK. These herbs should be taken with an additional intake of water every day.

2. Herbs Containing Anthroquinone Glycosides

The best known herb containing anthroquinone glycosides is SENNA. This has a long history of use in the UK. It is not recommended for longer than ten days.

Buckthorn is another herb which has been used over many centuries. It was replaced with the herb CASCARA SAGRADA, from the same family, which was more gentle but still reliable. Used at the usual dosage, these herbs are not recommended to be taken for longer than ten consecutive days or so.

Much stronger, and only to be used 'in extremis' is a herb extracted from the outer skin of the Aloe Vera plant. This is the same plant whose gel is used to promote healing. The Aloe from the outer skin - often called CAPE ALOE - is a strongly laxative herb. It is also very, very bitter and unpleasant if you happen to taste it. Aloe is generally used only occasionally.

3. The Best Choice For Constipation

One of the herbs mentioned above is by far the best herb to use to treat long-term, or short-term, constipation. However, to achieve this it is used at a relatively low dosage for long period of time.

The herb is Cascara Sagrada, or sacred bark.

If Cascara is used in small amounts - say 50 mg with each meal; and if it is combined with other appropriate herbs, it will often deal permanently with constipation in about six months. It is needed every day, however.

To be most effective, Cascara is combined with the herbs barberry, cayenne, Turkey rhubarb, and a number of other herbs. This unique formula has got a fantastic track record of success which has given long-term relief from constipation to thousands.

The Best Solution - a 90-Day Programme

Even better - this Cascara-based formula can be used as part of a holistic 90-Day Programme for constipation. This will include extra fiber - such as by using Psyllium Husks - as well as supplementary 'bowel flora' which also helps the bowel to work more effectively.

A 90-day Programme such as this gives a great start in treating constipation. Following this successful start for 3 months with 3 such products, the Cascara-based product can be used alone, daily, for a further few months until the bowel finally functions successfully on its own. Many, many people have been absolutely delighted, as well as very relieved, after using a programme like this.

Constipation - The Herbs Most Often Used

Robert Ralph strongly recommends colon cleansing. He can save you up to an extra £15 (approx 20 Euros or ) on a top quality herbal 90-DAY COLON CLEANSING PROGRAMME when you visit this Colon Cleansing Programme website. This fantastic programme consists of Cascara Compound Capsules, Psyllium Husks, Bio Multi-flora (bowel flora), an instructional pamphlet PLUS unlimited free professional support by phone or email. Read more at the Colon Cleansing website.

Herbs With Claims to Lower Blood Glucose

The long-term complications of uncontrolled diabetes are well known - damage to eyes, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, and other organs. Most of this damage is attributed to chronic elevated blood glucose levels. Type II diabetics and pre-diabetics are aware of these dangers and sometimes consider adding herbal therapy, to their doctor prescribed medication, to "tweak" blood sugar lowering effects and possibly prevent complications. Sometimes patients may try herbs and other supplements because they want to use a more "natural" treatment to control their blood sugars.

The strength and dose of herbal products vary and your pharmacist can assist you in selecting products, discussing dosage ranges, and preventing any herb-drug interactions. Herbal products can also vary greatly from batch-to-batch and it is always preferred to purchase a quality name brand product that has been assayed and standardized in regard to active ingredient. The bottom line is that there must be some assurance that you are purchasing a product that will consistently deliver a specified dose of active herb.

Herb

Type I diabetics who require insulin generally should not add herbs with blood sugar lowering effects to their treatment because of the serious potential for life -threatening hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar) or other medical complications.

Herbs With Claims to Lower Blood Glucose

Regardless of the reasons for using these specific herbs, one must always keep their doctor and pharmacist "in the loop" to prevent any hypoglycemic reactions and dangerous or toxic interactions. Hypoglycemic reactions are dangerous and can be deadly.

There are several noteworthy herbs that are claimed to have blood sugar lowering effects. These herbs are not generally used in Western herbal medicine and are more common in Ayurvedic Medicine and Oriental Medicine. The exact mechanism of action in lowering blood sugar is often not known. In addition, these herbs may not work well for everyone and their overall effect may vary in individuals. Side effects can also be patient specific and a combination of these herbs may be required to obtain the desired effect. Commercial herbal combinations are available and often contain antioxidants, zinc, chromium, vanadyl sulfate, and other minerals or vitamins that may be beneficial to diabetics.

Glucometer blood sugar monitoring, especially fasting samples and the two-hour after meal (postprandial) sampling, are usually necessary until blood sugar levels are under control. However, always follow your physician's advice regarding the frequency of glucometer testing. Hemoglobin A1c values should also be monitored by your physician to follow blood glucose levels over the long haul.

Agaricus Mushroom (Agaricus blazei):

This mushroom has shown evidence of lowering blood glucose.

Aloe Vera (Aloe):

Aloe Vera is a member of the Lily family even though it resembles a cactus. There are over 240 species of Aloe, but only four species are recognized as having nutritional value with Aloe barbadensis leading the group.

Preliminary research suggests aloe gel might lower blood glucose levels. Dose is usually (15-30 ml (50 mg) per day.

American Ginseng:

A very popular herb in Chinese medicine. Recent studies have shown that Ginseng may be helpful in reducing blood sugar levels in Type II diabetic patients. For diabetes, ginsengosides and possibly other constituents are thought to reduce postprandial glucose levels. This effect might be due to either tissue insulin sensitization or direct stimulation of insulin release or both of these mechanisms. The effect of various ginsengs on glucose appears to be related in part to the mix of ginsenosides. Other non-ginsenoside constituents likely affect blood glucose as well.

For reducing postprandial glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, 3-9 grams up to 2-hours before a meal has been used. However, there is no added benefit to taking more than 3 grams. Other studies suggest taking ginseng 40 minutes prior to meal to obtain the optimal effect. Irregardless, American ginseng should be taken within two hours of a meal to avoid potential hypoglycemia.

Bilberry (Huckleberry):

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has been used in traditional European medicine for nearly a thousand years, primarily to treat diarrhea. Bilberry contains a powerful antioxidant that helps to promote circulation in the eyes. Studies on diabetic dogs have also indicated benefits in reducing blood sugar levels. Use Bilberry standardized at 25% anothocyanins for maximum potency.

Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia):

A member of the Cucurbitaceae family, the plant grows in tropical areas, including parts of the Amazon Basin, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and South America. The bitter melon grows as a vine bearing green leaves and yellow flowers with oblong green fruit that resemble a cucumber.

Bitter melon has a long history of use as a hypoglycemic agent in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where the plant extract has been referred to as vegetable insulin. Although several constituents of bitter melon have hypoglycemic properties, most interest has focused on a polypeptide isolated from the seeds called polypeptide-p and a mixture of two steroid glycosides referred to as charantin. At least three different compounds in Bitter Melon have been reported to have sugar-regulating properties. Gurmarin, in particular, is a polypeptide considered to be similar to bovine insulin.

Blond Psyllium (Blond Plantago):

Blond psyllium seed husk orally seems to significantly reduce postprandial serum glucose, insulin levels, serum total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in patients with Type II diabetes and hypercholesterolemia

Blond psyllium seems to reduce postprandial blood glucose levels by about 14% to 20%, total cholesterol by about 9%, and LDL cholesterol by 13%. Blonde psyllium also seems to lower postprandial glucose levels in patients with Type I diabetes. Blond psyllium's maximum effect on the glucose levels occurs when psyllium is mixed and consumed with foods. Blond psyllium does not lower postprandial glucose in people who do not have diabetes.

Cinnamon Bark (Cassia Cinnamon):

Cinnamon is getting a lot of attention as a treatment for diabetes. There is preliminary evidence that it can lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. So far, this benefit has only been found with Cassia Cinnamon (Chinese Cinnamon) in humans. As little as ¼ to ½ teaspoonfuls can have a powerful effect in lowering blood sugar.

Recent studies (2008) indicate that cinnamom may not significantly lower blood glucose.

Devil's Claw:

Devil's Claw is native to south and central Africa. Its medicinal value lies in its fleshy roots, which are sliced, chopped, or pulverized while fresh.

Some evidence shows that this herb might decrease blood glucose and have additive effects with medication used in diabetes.

Eleuthro (Siberian Ginseng):

Eleuthro is a shrub that grows 3 to 10 feet high with products made from the root. The root contains a mixture of components, common to many plants but occurring together in Siberian ginseng, called eleutherosides. Among the other ingredients are chemicals called polysaccharides, which have been found to boost the immune system and lower blood sugar levels in laboratory studies using animals.

Like the panax ginsengs, Siberian ginseng is considered to be an adaptogen, which means that it helps in stressful circumstances and also helps return the body to a normal balance.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum):

Dose: 10-15 grams per day in divided doses with meals Fenugreek is effective for lowering postprandial (after meals) blood sugar. The applicable part of fenugreek is the seed. The active constituents include trigonelline, 4-hydroxyisoleucine, and sotolon. About 80% of the total content of free amino acids in the seeds is present as 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which appears to directly stimulate insulin. This effect is glucose dependent and only occurs in the presence of moderate to high glucose concentrations.

Fenugreek seeds have a distinctive bitter taste and odor. Sotolon is frequently used as a flavoring for artificial maple syrup. Theoretically, patients who are allergic to other Fabaceae plants including soybeans, peanuts, and green peas might also be allergic to fenugreek.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Preliminary research suggests ginger might increase insulin levels. Theoretically, it could have an additive effect with medication used to treat diabetes and cause hypoglycemia.

Glucomannan (Konnyaku root):

A member of the yam family, this herb is high in fiber and can help normalize blood sugar, relieve stress on the pancreas.

Gulvel (Tinospora cordifolia):

Grows wild along roadsides throughout the tropical and sub-tropical plains of India and Sri Lanka. Plant extracts causes reduction in fasting blood sugar in rabbits and rats.

Gymnema sylvestre (Gumar):

A tropical plant of the milkweed family with an ancient Sanskrit name meaning "destroyer of sugar." Preliminary clinical research indicates that certain Gymnema extracts can reduce blood glucose and glycosated hemoglobin (Hb A1c) in Type I and Type II diabetics.

Holy Basil (Hot Basil):

Preliminary evidence suggests that holy leaf extract may decrease fasting (17.6%) and postprandial blood glucose in patients with Type II diabetes.

Jambolan (Syzygium cumini):

A close relative of the clove tree Syzygium aromaticum, Jambolan is native to east India and the Malay Peninsula, but has spread as far as China and Australia and is grown in the Caribbean.

Only the bark of the Jambolan has proven medicinal value, although the seeds are often used as well. In Asian medicine, it is used for diabetes, diarrhea, sore throat, and diseases of the spleen.

Kudzu:

Kudzu is native to Japan and China, however it grows extremely well in the Southern United states. This vine, when left uncontrolled, will eventually grow over almost any fixed object or other vegetation.

Kudzu or its constituents might have hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, and antioxidant activity.

Neem (Azadirachta indica):

Neem is a member of the Mahogany family (Meliaceae) which includes a large array of tropical trees and shrubs native to both the Old and New World. Evidence indicates that Neem might possess some hypoglycemic activity.

Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng):

There is some evidence that taking Panax ginseng orally, 200 mg daily can decrease fasting blood glucose levels and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with Type II diabetes.

Prickly Pear Cactus (Nopal):

There is some preliminary clinical evidence that prickly pear cactus used orally can decrease blood glucose levels in patients with Type II diabetes. Single doses can decrease blood glucose levels by 17% to 46% in some patients. However, it is not known if extended daily use can consistently lower blood glucose levels and decrease HbA1c levels. Only the broiled stems of the specific species Opuntia streptacantha seem to be beneficial and raw or crude stems do not seem to decrease glucose levels. Other prickly pear cactus species do not seem to significantly lower blood glucose levels.

Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus marsupium):

Like Gymnema Sylvestre, this is a traditional herb used in India to help rejuvenate the insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. One group of researchers investigating diabetic rats compared Pterocarpus' observed effects on blood glucose levels to those of metformin, a drug familiar to many diabetics.

Stevia (Sweet Herb):

Stevia is a non-caloric herb, native to Paraguay, which has been used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer for centuries. Clinical research suggests that stevioside, a constituent of Stevia, might reduce postprandial glucose levels by 18% in people with Type II diabetes.

Tumeric:

Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Asian Indian cookery and is an ingredient in curry powder. Ground from dried curcumin, a rhizome of the ginger family, turmeric is not peppery and rather mild tasting.

May decrease blood sugar levels (and cholesterol). The apparent blocking of enzymes that convert dietary carbohydrates into glucose may be involved in this lowing of blood sugar.

Many of these herbs have potential to help Type II diabetics and pre-diabetics maintain lower blood sugar and reach a Hemoglobin A1c goal of http://www.charanteausa.com/ampalaya_archive/studies/3.doc Natural Medicine Comprehensive. Database. (2006) Retrieved June 2006 from http://www.naturaldatabase.com

Shane-McWhorter, Laura. Biological complementary therapies: a focus on botanical products in diabetes. Diabetes Spectrum 14:199-208, 2001Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/content/full/14/4/199

The Ayurvedic Center (2006) Historical use of ayurvedic herbs. Retrieved June 5, 2006 from http://www.holheal.com/ayurved4.html

University of Maryland Medical Center (2006) Siberian ginseng. Retrieved June 5, 2006 from http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsHerbs/GinsengSiberianch.html

Herbs With Claims to Lower Blood Glucose

The Different Types of Herbs

If you're not really into herb gardening, you might not realize that there are many different types of herbs. They can be generalized into a few different categories depending on what they are used for.

Culinary Herbs
This is what most people think of when they hear the word 'herb.' These plants are used primarily for cooking. They can be generally be thought of as the herbs with strong flavors but are also sometimes used as a garnish.

Herb

The culinary herbs include chives, thyme, basil, sage, savory, marjoram, and parsley, as well as others.

The Different Types of Herbs

Aromatic herbs
As the name suggests, these have a strong fragrance. They are used for their aromatic quality, not their taste. The strong aroma can come from either the flowers or the leaves themselves.

These herbs can be dried and used to make potpourri, for example. This enables them to retain their fragrance for a long period of time. Examples of herbs often used for potpourri are lavender and lemon verbena.

Some herbs which have aromatic oils in them can be used to make perfume or toilet water. These are herbs such as lovage, mint, and rosemary. (Note that mint is also considered a culinary herb, so herbs don't always fall into a single category).

Ornamental Herbs
Some herbs are used in the same way other flowers are; they are pretty to look at. These herbs have brightly colored flowers and leaves. For example, the crimson flowers of valerian are very lovely to look at, as are lovely blue flowers of chicory and borage.

Herbs are also categorized by their life span, as are other plants. Annuals must be grown every year. These include basil and cilantro.

Perennial herbs will come back year after year. These include sage and winter savory. Note that if they are grown indoors, they should be repotted annually.

Biennial herbs have a 2-year life span. The first year, they form leaves. During the second year, they flower and form seeds. These include parsley, angelica, or caraway.

So as you can see, there are many different types of herbs. Which ones you decide to plant depend on what you want to use them for.

The Different Types of Herbs

Sebastian Mortner enjoys herbs in cooking. He also has a website http://www.stainless-steelrefrigerator.com all about the stainless steel refrigerator.

Harvesting Herbs - What You Need to Know When Harvesting Rosemary

Rosemary is a perennial herb that can thrive for many years especially in warm and dry climates. It is an evergreen shrub that grows up to six feet tall when planted in the ground under optimum conditions, or 3 feet in height when grown in containers. It doesn't take frost very well and might die during the cold season without adequate protection. For this reason, many choose to grow rosemary in pots so it can be easily taken indoors during winter.

But many herb gardeners will certainly agree that rosemary is one of the easiest herbs to grow. You can be sure of a good harvest as long as you provide its basic requirements: lots of sun, just the right amount of water and a little pruning here and there to promote a bushy growth.

Herb

Harvesting rosemary doesn't need any special method at all and there is really no harvest season for this herb. You can enjoy its fresh leaves anytime for as long as the plant is growing. But there some points you might find helpful to ensure full benefit from your rosemary herb.

Harvesting Herbs - What You Need to Know When Harvesting Rosemary

One: Harvest only from an established rosemary plant. Give young plants at least six weeks before harvesting for the first time. Six weeks also for older plants to allow them to grow back their stems and establish new growth.

Two: Harvest is simply done by snipping off its stems. You may find a pair of clippers useful for this purpose because rosemary is a woody plant and cannot be easily pruned by bare hands. Using a sharp pair of clippers also ensures a clean cut and avoids wounding the stems or damaging the plant. Wounded stems may invite pest or make the plant vulnerable to diseases.

Three: Cut or prune only four to eight inches from the tip of the stems, depending on how tall the plant is. If you cut too far down, there won't be any foliage left to allow the stems to grow back and repopulate.

Four: Also, cut only the leafy stems and not the woody part, especially if you have an older plant. New growth stems only from the leafy ones. Bare wood doesn't grow back.

Five: Prune or harvest rosemary after it blooms.

Six: Get only as much as you need if you plan to use the herb fresh.

Seven: Harvest anytime of the day. You don't really have to wait for the full moon or for a specific time in the morning to make sure that the herb is at its peak.

Eight: After you harvest, there are a number of ways to store the herb. You can use it immediately, hang it on a warm and dry place to dry, or toss inside a plastic bag and freeze. Although, dried or frozen rosemary leaves are not as good and as flavorful as fresh leaves.

Rosemary is a truly a wonderful herb to have growing in your garden or inside your house. Knowing how to properly harvest from it and allowing the plant to grow back over and over again could mean many bountiful years for you and your rosemary.

Harvesting Herbs - What You Need to Know When Harvesting Rosemary

You can visit Nova's site if you'd like to know more about Harvesting Herbs and Herb Gardening.

Nova Person is an herb enthusiast and her site is a collection of useful tips and practices that she learn from over 20 years of experience in gardening. To know more about it, go visit http://www.GrowHerbsInfo.com.

Ganoderma Lucidum - The Wonder Herb

One of the most apparent influences modern times has brought to people is their realization of going back to the basics, to the natural, and to the organic. Although the advances brought by technology has made life easier to people, many are still looking for better organic alternatives that are proven to be more effective in their most natural of form, like Ganoderma Lucidum or commonly known as "Ganoderma."

Believed by the Chinese as the "Miraculous King of Herbs," Ganoderma Lucidum is highly-regarded for its medicinal properties that help improve human body's healing ability while helping its user to maintain good physical shape. Aside from promoting longevity, Ganoderma Lucidum has unique properties that contribute much to the strengthening of the immune system. Somewhat rare in the West, Ganoderma Lucidum has been worshipped as a kind of herbal medicine the emperors of the great Japanese and Chinese dynasties drank with their special teas and mushroom concoctions to achieve greater vitality and longer life. Ganoderma Lucidum was also believed to be visible in the "elixir of eternal youth" that the ancient Taoists constantly searched for.

Herb

A fungus known by its many names like "Reishi," "Ling zhi," and "Mannentake," among others, Ganoderma Lucidum, for hundreds or even thousands of years, is recognized as powerful medicinal fungi because it has properties often associated with health and healing, long life, knowledge, and happiness. In fact, during the ancient time, it is believed that the Ganoderma Lucidum in medicine was considered so promising that its medicinal value has been attested in a 2,000-year old Chinese medical text--known as an authentic textbook of Oriental medical science. For years, medicinal mushrooms such as Ganoderma Lucidum have long been included in the history of folk medicine for contributing much to curing cancers of all sorts and for showing positive effects to the development of the immune system.

Ganoderma Lucidum - The Wonder Herb

Aside from contributing a lot to the treatment of various diseases, Ganoderma Lucidum has also become popular because of its promising properties that might extend life span while increasing vigor and vitality.

Mushroom miracle

The role of Ganoderma Lucidum in the medical field is quite impressive. Even if its role in the treatment of cancer doesn't have a strong and solid medical backing yet, Ganoderma Lucidum is still recommended to prevention because of the absence of unfavorable side effects. While people from different walks of life take interests and contribute a lot in the rediscovery of herbal treatments, the popularity of Ganoderma Lucidum increases steadily.

Under the extensive research continuously done so many scholars, as well as the cooperative analysis and clinical experiments conducted by people in the hospitals, inside the colleges and universities, and even by pharmaceutical manufacturers, Ganoderma Lucidum's potential as an effective medicine is becoming clearer and defined. And like in ancient China--where Ganoderma Lucidum is considered not just a symbol of 'prosperity and peace' or an 'item of tribute'--the so-called 'miracle herb' is now also seen by the people in the modern world as a potential elixir for immortality.

With so many research and emerging evidence how Ganoderma Lucidum helps the body work more effectively, efficiently and optimally, the people who do these extensive and never-ending researches continues to hope that Ganoderma can bring a brighter view to humanity on its conquest for longevity.

Ganoderma Lucidum - The Wonder Herb

Terry Dunn is Webmaster of http://www.Ganoderma-Online.com - a Informational Resource about Ganoderma

How Much Turmeric to Use and the Most Effective Way to Take It

It seems that everybody is giving different advice these days on how much turmeric to use, and in what form and how often. So what is the most effective amount to use and the best way to take it?
 
I am sure you are aware of the potential of this amazing herb, primarily in helping to fight cancer. It has also been shown to protect the heart, lower cholesterol and help prevent degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
 
Turmeric is not absorbed well into the body in sufficient amounts on its own, so a multi supplement is the best route to take.
 
How much turmeric to use is a question best answered in two parts. First the amount and then the delivery method. You can get supplements with over 600mg, but this is a waste of time and money as they normally have no special coating on them to protect them from the stomach acid.
 
If you make sure you are getting at least a standardized 95% pure curcumin extract at around 50mg a day, preferably with other synergistic ingredients, then that is all you need. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric.
 
With regards to delivery it is important that the supplement has a natural enteric coating allowing it to pass through the stomach and into the upper intestine where all the benefits are realized. Most on the market today just have a cheap coating and so very little, if any, will reach the bloodstream.
 
As well as the question how much turmeric to use, you should ask how to take it too. For example, if combined with piperine, from black pepper, its absorption rate increases by up to 2000%!
 
So you can see that it is not the high dosage that is of importance here, but what turmeric is combined with and the coating, and when these ingredients are put together they create synergy, which means you get the direct benefits of each nutrient and the benefits from their interaction with each other.
 
So now you know how much turmeric to use, what's stopping you from including this amazing nutrient and others in your daily routine!
 
If you would like to learn more about the synergistic products which I personally take, including turmeric, click on the link below

\"herb Guide\"

How Much Turmeric to Use and the Most Effective Way to Take It

Take a moment to visit my site now at http://www.natural-supplements-site.info

Ric Hawkins is a dedicated researcher of nutrition, diet and turmeric extract Discover the very latest and effective anti-aging health supplements Ric recommends after extensive research.

Recommend : What is Detox What is Pregnancy

How to Get Thin in a Week - 3 Steps to Get Thin in 1 Week or Less

If you are wondering how to get thin in a week, then you need to take a minute and read this article to learn the most effective and very easy tips that can help you get skinny fast. These methods helped me lose 10 pounds in 7 days.

If you are really serious about getting thin quick, you can lose your excess pounds really fast too.

\"herb Tea\"

How to Get Thin in a Week

1- Drink lots of water

Drink water all day long. At least 10 glasses throughout the day. Don't drink sodas at all. You can have one cup of coffee if you are addicted to caffeine but if you can avoid it, then do. You can also drink unsweetened herb tea or green tea but be sure you drink lots of water.

2- Eat lots of raw fruits and vegetables

You can eat all the fruits and vegetables you want to. No limits. The only ones to avoid are starchy vegetables like potatoes and fatty ones like avocados. Eat your fruits and veggies RAW for the easiest fastest weight loss. You can eat them plain. You can eat them in a fruit salad. You can enjoy delicious fruit and vegetable smoothies for meals too. Smoothies when prepared with just fruits and vegetables help you get thin quick!

3- Eat whenever you are hungry but not too much

You won't be deprived if you just eat when you are hungry and stop when you feel comfortable, NOT when you feel stuffed. Enjoy each bite, try not to rush - just eat and enjoy the delicious flavor of fresh fruits and veggies in their natural state.

How to Get Thin in a Week - 3 Steps to Get Thin in 1 Week or Less

It is easy to learn how to get thin in a week! Are you ready to start today? Get my free report on how I lost 13 pounds in 14 days. It's easier than you think! http://quickhealthyweightlossplan.com

If you're serious about learning how to lose weight fast, then take action right now.

Thanks To : How to balance Diet Yoga Natural body spa

The Potency Of Chinese Brush Oil

The number of men reporting problems regarding their penile erection and sexual performance is on the rise. Through the years, the problem of premature ejaculation has been dreaded. Men would always be in a state of denial, and their partners would always yearn for more. In modern societies, issues and concerns involving sexual intercourse is fast becoming common and public discussion is becoming more acceptable.

Chinese medicine, being known for its natural ingredients and traditional means of production, has come out with a potent and proven effective treatment for premature ejaculation. Introducing the Chinese Brush Oil. Also known in the name of Suifan's Kwang Tze, the oil is more of a solution because it is made up of several Chinese herbs that are known to help prolong sensations.

\"chinese Herbs\"

As premature ejaculation remedy, Chinese Brush Oil is applied to the penis before or during actual intercourse. Because of its greasy feel almost like oil, the sensation brought about by the product is in itself already a stimulant for a better sexual performance. Looking closely at the chemical and natural composition of the solution, it has extracts that help lower sensitivity in the penis, a factor that is known and identified to greatly contribute to faster and very immediate male orgasm. Thus, after applying the product, it would be noticeable that the performance is prolonged, which would be most welcome to the partner.

The formulation of Chinese Brush Oil has been proven working and very much effective because it is already in use in several other Asian products available to consumers in the past years. The product is known to help prolong penile erections and boost sexual vitality to come up with a very stimulating and vibrant sexual activity.

In the current setting, it is being compared to the popular sildenafil drugs that are known to help induce and prolong penile erection. However, different from the current penile performance enhancement drugs, this Chinese medicine is more advantageous and safe. First of all, Chinese Brush oil is made of the most natural and organic ingredients with its herbal extract composition. The treatment can be taken and used by just about anyone, without restrictions to those with severe case of hypertension and heart ailments, which sildenafil is cautiously prescribed against.

Because of its all organic composition, Chinese Brush Oil invokes no possible side effects. Thus, users would be assured that no adverse changes to body functions and no body reactions would result from using and taking the product. The very pure herbal essences and nutrients present in the product just helps lead to further harder and noticeably longer erection, to the delight of both men and women.

Springherb is a Chinese medicine specialist that exclusively distributes Chinese Brush Oil across the United Kingdom. Through buying from the company, you would be entitled to free shipment anywhere you are in the country. There is also an attractive promotional scheme that would facilitate discount purchases. Each unit of the product costs £7.50, but if you would buy at least 4 at the same time, you would be entitled to one additional unit for free. That will surely translate to a substantial amount of savings.

Log in to Springherb's official Website at http://www.springherb.co.uk/ and find out how you could make an online purchase of Chinese Brush Oil. Within the Webpage, there is a virtual shopping cart that would provide you further convenience as you stroll within the site and shop for many other Chinese herbal medicine products. Online transactions are powered by PayPal and Pretax, making the online deals secured and fraud-risk free.

You can also visit Springherb's main store at 40 Stodman Street along Newark in Nottinghamshire. The telephone hotline is 01636-706892. The store opens at 9:30 in the morning, Monday to Saturday, and closes at 5:50 in the afternoon. On top of Chinese Brush Oil and other products, Springherb has also been known across the market as a company that provides acupuncture and massaging products and services.

The Potency Of Chinese Brush Oil

As premature ejaculation remedy, Chinese Brush Oil is applied to the penis before or during actual intercourse.

See Also : Massage What to do to lose weight Guide To Herb

KFC Original Recipe - Kentucky Fried Chicken Recipes

Looking for the infamous KFC Original Recipe? We'll probably never find out the true KFC secret recipe, but we can make an attempt. There have been dozens of attempts to deconstruct this famous recipe over the years. Many of these KFC clone recipes claim to taste just like the original, but can they really deliver? Here are some KFC recipes that have been released to the internet in an attempt to mimic those original 11 herbs and spices.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon rosemary
1 tablespoon oregano
1 tablespoon powdered sage
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon majoram
1 1/2 teaspoon thyme
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons dry minced parsley
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon paprika
2 tablespoons garlic salt
2 tablespoons onion salt
2 tablespoons powdered chicken bouillon; * see note
1 package lipton tomato cup of soup mix

\"herbs And Spices\"

This is a common recipe using tomato soup mix to make the recipe more simple. However, many people claim that there are actually far less than 11 herbs and spices in the actual spice mix. Here is the clone that many have agreed upon:

2 fryer chickens cut up into 8 pieces and marinated
6 cups Crisco Shortening
1 eggs well beaten
2 cups Milk
2 cups Flour
2 teaspoons ground pepper
3 tablespoons salt
1 teaspoon MSG
1/8 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 dash paprika

Notice in this recipe there are actually only 4 herbs and spices! Pepper, salt, MSG, garlic, and paprika. We'll probably never know for sure, but in the mean time, these should hold you over!

KFC Original Recipe - Kentucky Fried Chicken Recipes

For the most accurate KFC Original Recipe currently available, check out the website below.

For lots more KFC recipes, check out Fast Food Recipes. It contains over 500 replica recipes from all the most popular fast food and restaurant chains in America.

Visit : What is Pregnancy World Health Club

Is Black Pepper Good For You?

Black pepper has been used for thousands of years and although this may not appear pertinent to the question "Is black pepper good for you?" we should perhaps remember that some clinical trials of natural substances are speeded up because they have been consumed for centuries without any (or hardly any) reported deaths.

Black, white and green peppercorns all cone from the same plant Piper nigrum with black pepper being the dried whole unripe fruit of the plant and white pepper being the ripe fruit with the outer skin removed. People tend to prefer the taste of black pepper to white and there are far fewer culinary disasters due to the overuse of black as opposed to white pepper.

\"about Herbs\"

The oil from black pepper has been given to patients who have suffered strokes to inhale so that they can swallow better. Alzheimer's sufferers have also been given it to inhale with beneficial results reported, although more trials are needed to ascertain how this works precisely. Other studies have shown that the oil when inhaled has improved withdrawal symptoms in people who are trying to stop smoking cigarettes.

Black pepper has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and so helps to prevent the risks of cancers. It also may have anti-microbial properties, and it contains vanadium which is being researched for its potential benefits in improving insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels in people with Type -2 diabetes.

Both black and white pepper can be applied directly onto the skin as a counter-irritant to scabies and for the relief of neuralgia. In the Asian subcontinent the black variety is used in food for those with weak stomachs who have digestive disorders, as it is thought to increase the flow of digestive juices. However it can cause dyspepsia (upset stomach) in some people. It has also been used in the treatment of bronchitis and cancer. Modern medical studies have found that black pepper may protect against colon cancer, but there is the possibility that it may on the other hand promote cancer of the liver. It is also believed that there might be a link between ingestion of black pepper and esophageal cancer.

Inhalation of the pepper (not the oil) can result in respiratory irritation, oedema (swelling), respiratory arrest, severe anoxia and even death-so don't inhale it.

Black pepper has been approved in foodstuffs by the US Food and Drink Administration in the Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) category. Using it as a medicine is not to be recommended. However, using it in food should not cause a problem. Inhaling it would seem to be a rather strange thing to do and given the results, best avoided.

If you use this pepper in the usual way then you should not have any worries. In the traditional forms of medicine in the Indian subcontinent it is not used when frying food, only in sauces and stews, or sprinkled over salads. Red chillies are used for medicinal purposes rather than other types of pepper, and these have recently been in the news, because it would seem that they inhibit the growth of cancerous kidney cells. Black pepper should be taken in moderation; it would not be advisable to chew on handfuls of peppercorns. Use it in food for its taste and flavour as it has been used for thousands of years and unless you are taking cholinergic agonists, cyclosporine, digoxin, propranolol, rifampin or theophylline you will be fine. If you are taking any of these drugs, ask your health care provider about any concerns you have. Remember that it is not a medicine, but a condiment and use it as such.

Is Black Pepper Good For You?

Lynne Evans writes for http://www.herbs-treatandtaste.blogspot.com and in this site you will find information about herbs, spices and other plants which have health-giving properties. There are also tasty recipes and other information about the food we eat and exotic foods.

Friends Link : World Health Club Exercise Workouts Natural body spa

Hoodia - The Miracle Natural Herb For Weight Loss

This plant from South Africa may hold the key to miraculous weight loss. Discovered early in the 1960s, this plant that grows in the Kalahari Desert of Southern Africa has shown some remarkably amazing qualities, not least of all, its ability to suppress the appetite.

Although there are more than 40 different varieties of the Hoodia plant, only the Hoodia Gordonii has the active ingredient known as P57, which is the appetite suppressing agent. This ingredient mimics the effect that glucose has on the brain, it basically tells the brain that the stomach is full, and therefore, there is no need to consume any food.

\"natural Herb\"

The African bushmen of the Kalahari Desert have been using this plant for thousands of years, using it to stave off hunger when they go on long trips. It doesn't seem to have any bad side effects on them, although they do not consume this plant every day or in a regular manner.

People who try out Hoodia supplements and pills regularly report that they can stop feeling hungry for as long as 8 to 12 hours, some even report that they are hunger free, with no cravings for any food or drink for the whole day.

Scientific and clinical studies conducted since the discovery of the Hoodia Gordonii have mostly validated the appetite suppressing power of the plant. It works on animals as well as on humans. One study showed that people on average consumed 1000 calories less per day compared to a control group. This also resulted in a corresponding weight loss.

Imagine this - take the Hoodia Gordonii supplement or pill and feel no urge to eat, hence you can lose weight automatically, without much effort on your part. Just its affect of feeling full will prevent you from eating more food, and hence you will reduce your weight without doing much else.

Although the active ingredient, P57 has been identified, it is still not economically viable to synthesize this by a chemical process, so the only way now to get this is for the pharmaceutical companies to actually grow the Hoodia plant in large plantations.

Do beware of fake Hoodia pills and supplements. To guarantee that you are getting the real Hoodia, make sure that the pills or supplements have been independently tested. Alkemist Pharmaceuticals or Chromodex are two companies that have been licensed to test Hoodia by Phytopharm (the people who discovered the active ingredient).

As a miracle weight loss product, Hoodia certainly fulfills the conditions.

Hoodia - The Miracle Natural Herb For Weight Loss

Get your exclusive free report on Weight Loss at http://www.Weight-Loss-Secrets-Revealed.net

There are many supplements and pills available that can help you to lose weight quicker. To discover diet pills that work, click on the link.

Shafir Ahmad is an Infopreneur bringing you the best information.

Related : Natural body spa Exercise Workouts What is Detox

Herbs For Clearing Phlegm

Phlegm is the name given to the excess mucus occurring in and secreted from the respiratory passages, mainly lungs, throat and sinuses. The sticky fluid of the nasal passages is not phlegm. Differing from this scientific view of the Westerners, the Chinese consider it as "congealed moisture" opposing the body's Qi (or Chi). According to them while Qi, which is "vital energy", is 'light and flowing', phlegm is just the opposite, 'substantive and stagnating'. From the time of Hippocrates to the nineteenth century, phlegm was one of the four bodily humours (the others being black bile, yellow bile and blood). It was thought that phlegm caused sluggishness and laziness.

The color of phlegm, except when it is white may be indicative of some ailment or the other. Yellow, brown or greenish appearance implies there may be infection. Yellow means also that you may be suffering from the common cold. During the initial period of a flu attack, the phlegm may be colorless, when it is considered highly infectious. Later, it may turn yellow. In some cases, smoking renders the phlegm brown or brownish gray. In some instances, tuberculosis and, on a minor scale, bronchitis may make you cough up phlegm tinged with blood.

\"herbs For Health\"

It is therefore important that you clear phlegm before it bothers you with minor infections or major illnesses. For this, you may choose to look for suitable herbs rather than take the usual prescription drugs. In that case, you will find quite a few herbal solutions to the problem of phlegm clogging your respiratory passages and making you acutely uncomfortable or even ill.

The Oriental Materia Medica along with the Thousand Formulas and the Thousand Herbs of Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a long list of herbs for clearing, according to the Chinese concept, both the types of phlegm, the 'cold-phlegm' and the 'hot-phlegm'. Cold-phlegm is supposed to be 'moist, thin and clear' and the hot one 'drier, thick and sometimes discolored'. Warming herbs clear cold-phlegm and cooling herbs hot-phlegm, as per the thinking of the practitioners of Chinese medicine.

The following are only some of those herbs found to be effective in clearing phlegm:

Bamboo: The Chinese call it Zhu. The edible shavings of the stem, which is called Zhuru, have a sweet taste and are used as an ingredient in a combination of Aurantium and Bamboo, an herbal remedy to stop nausea and vomiting resulting from phlegm. The combination contains triterpenes as its active ingredient. These clear phlegm and reduce inflammation.

Bamboo sap (the liquid form is called Zhuli and the dried form tianzhuhuang) has also got similar properties. It is used in a medicine called Baoying Dan, which is effective for fever and breathing problems in infants.

Bulbifera is rhizome, used as a component of Jia Kang Wan a medicine in several herbs useful for resolving phlegm by removing thyroid mass (phlegm mass).

Cynanchum, a rhizome of a plant with white leaves, is an important ingredient in the medicine Platycodon and Schizonepeta Formula (Zhi Sou San). It is useful in the treatment of cough. It helps remove sputum.

Fritillaria refers to two important species of the Lily family, Fritillaria cirrosa and Fritillaria thunbergii. The latter is good for clearing phlegm masses and tumors. Fritillaria is used in the medicine Platycodon and Fritillaria Combination.

Some other herbs and the medicines (put, along with Chinese names, between brackets), in which they are used as ingredients, include the following:-

FOR HOT PHLEGM:

Epicedium (Perilla Fruit Combination: Suzi Jiangqi Tang);

Sterculia (Yanhou Tang);

Trichosanthes (Ophiopogon and Trichosanthes Combination:

Maimendong Yin Zi);

Trichosanthes seed (Anemarrhena and Fritillaria Formula: Ermu Ningsou Wan);

Trichosanthes fruit (Trichosanthes, Bakeri, and Pinellia Combination:

Gualou Xiebai Banxia Tang);

FOR COLD PHLEGM:

Arisaema (Pinellia and Arisaema Combination: Qingshi Huatan Tang);

Centipeda (Xanthium 12: Kang Xieqi Pian);

Galitsis (Angelica and Mastic Combination: Xianfang Huoming Yin);

Inula (Schizonepeta and Pinellia Formula: Qingfei Cao San);

Pinellia (Pinellia Combination: Banxia Xiexin Tang);

Platycodon (Fritillaria and Platycodon Formula: Ning Sou Wan);

The list is by no means exhaustive. Before choosing one or more of the herbs for clearing phlegm, it is advisable to obtain the expert opinion of the practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializing in phlegm-resolving herbs.

Herbs For Clearing Phlegm

The Herbal Remedy - Alternative Healing

Health, life & Love is a motivational website offering articles on health, life and love. We are dedicated to the happenings of life and how to better anyone's day to day living.

Quality Free Articles [http://www.thewordbroker.com]

Tags : What is Detox Exercise Workouts What to do to lose weight

Ginger Root - An Herb With Medicinal Properties Used As An Alternative To Traditional Medicine

Ginger root is an herb that has been used in a variety of ways as a healing agent for over 2000 years. It is thought to have medicinal properties that can be helpful to those suffering from a myriad of ailments, including arthritis, nausea, motion sickness, headaches, and perhaps even types of heart disease. In the United States the use of herbs as medicine is still considered as alternative, but in places such as China, the Caribbean, India, parts of Africa and Europe ginger is widely accepted as a healing herb.

The history of ginger is quite fascinating. The Sanskrit name for ginger is srngaveram, which translates to "horn root". This is believed to be because of the appearance of the ginger root, which does bear a resemblance to an animal's horn. At some point in history ginger disappeared, but it is thought that Marco Polo brought it back with him after his extensive travels and it then became a delicacy in Europe. Most of the supply of ginger comes from Jamaica, India, Africa, and China. Ginger grows in the wild in Jamaica and other islands of the Caribbean because the tropical climate offers the best growing conditions. Ginger in the wild produces flowers when the herb is at its most ripe stage. Queen Elizabeth I loved the taste of ginger and encouraged her cooks to experiment with it. The gingerbread man is said to have been the direct outcome of this experimentation.

Herb

Ginger has been used most commonly to treat gastrointestinal maladies such as nausea, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, uncontrollable vomiting, heartburn, intestinal gas resulting in excess flatulence, and colitis. Many believe that ginger can help with these ailments because it contains properties thought to strengthen the muscle tone in the intestinal tract.

Herbalists use ginger extract to decrease inflammation, which is a leading cause of many ailments including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, bronchitis, dermatitis, and ulcerative colitis. Studies are not at all conclusive, but many people prefer to use a natural remedy instead of taking ibuprofen or other traditional medication.

Use of ginger to treat motion sickness appears to be at least somewhat effective but more studies need to be conducted and analyzed. As far as heart disease is concerned, it is unclear whether or not ginger can be used successfully to lower cholesterol. It is simply to early to make an intelligent comment on this type of medicinal use of the herb.

Ginger appears as a knotted root with an underground stem known as a rhizome. It consists of volatile oils (somewhere between 1 and 4%), as well as pungent compounds known as gingerol and shogaol. It is these compounds that are thought to be responsible for the healing properties of ginger for nausea and vomiting.

You can find ginger in the produce department as a fresh or dried root. Ginger is also available as a powdered extract, in capsule form, or as an oil. You can use ginger to prepare a tea or use it as a cooking spice to prepare breads, cookies, or as an ingredient in vegetable dishes.

It is always wise to do your own research and talk to your physician before supplanting ginger, or any other spice or herb, with prescribed medications. Many health food stores have herbalists on staff that can also answer any additional questions you may have. As with all things in your life, moderation is the best choice. But when choosing spices that may also be medicinal, try using ginger as a healthy, natural alternative.

Ginger Root - An Herb With Medicinal Properties Used As An Alternative To Traditional Medicine

Connie Ragen Green has used alternative medicine to supplement traditional medicine to help her deal with arthritis and cancer for over 15 years. Visit her at http://greenhouse.typepad.com/connie_ragen_green to find ways to improve your health and well being.

My Links : The stress no more Massage Guide To Herb