Parasites....Are You Aware????

I've been seeing a lot of info on parasites lately, have you?? They now say that tumors are made up not only of cancer cells, but also of parasites - it's the body's way of protecting it from these invaders! They (whoever 'they' are) also say if you've ever eaten sushi, raw salmon, fish or have pets, you can have parasites. This is a highly delicate subject & can be embarrasing for those that have them, but it has to be addressed!

Here are just a few of the symptoms of a parasite infestation: Brain fog, sugar & carb cravings, anxiety, depression, allergies, sleep issues, fatigue, headaches, skin issues, anal itching, gut issues, gas/bloating/nausea & auto immune issues (who knew?)

They love to steal you vitamins & minerals from the body which creates deficiencies in our health. Some types even feed on the blood. They lay millions of their eggs in our bodies! Their waste gets absorbed into your bloodstream which can weaken our immune systems. They infest one's organs. After all, they have a 75 day life cycle.

Do you wake up about the same time nightly & unable to go back to sleep? You feel something in your gut? Well these parasites love motion -- so at night when you are still, they don't like it, which can be why you awaken nightly at the same time!! This can cause sleep deprivation which isn't good for any of us. 

There are many things out there to help you get rid of these life stealing worms. Herbs like wormwood being #1, in my opinion. Cloves, which kill the eggs! Black walnut hulls. Pumpkin seeds. Oregano oil. Grapefruit seed extract. Garlic & onions. Papaya seeds (ground or whole?) Olive leaf extract. Diatomaceous earth. Ivermectin. Fulvic acid. Zeolite. I'm sure there are more that people are claiming work, just do your research.

The question is, with these 'cures', is how long do I have to do them? There are many schools of thought on this. Until you see them in your stools & urine, they aren't dying. That's how it works. The treatment kills them, then the body expels them. Some say 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off. Some say 90 days. Some say less time, some say more. Who knows? I think there are too many factors to be able to determine only one answer! Most likely since we are all different, there is no one answer for all. Only thing one can do is keep on your chosen treatment, watch for results, avoid sugar/carbs (they love those) & press on!!

Vagus Nerve....Know What It Is??

Have you ever heard of this??? Neither had I, until I spotted it & started reading about it. It's one of THE most important and longest nerves in the body to help control numerous crucial functions. It connects your brain to your gut & can affect things like moods, stress levels to the digestion, heart rate & even the immune response. If it's not working properly, it can also be involved in inflammation & some chronic diseases. 

This nerve sends sensory information tot he brain: sights, smells, tastes, sounds & controls some motor functions in the body. It's the longest of 12 cranial nerves & is referred to as 'cranial nerve X  (or 10)'. There's actually 2 of them: one left side, one on the right, but they are often talked about as one.

In Latin 'vagus' means 'wandering' which fits since it wanders throughout the body from the brain stem to the heart, lungs, stomach, digestive tract, liver, kidneys & spleen. It works with the parasympathetic system which is responsible for 'rest & digest' response. This system regulates internal organ functions i.e. digestion, heart rate, respiratory rate as well as reflex action like gagging, sneezing & swallowing. 

Signals go up & down this nerve impacting various parts of the body including the brain, heart, lungs & gut. In the brain, it affects moods, helps make & store memories & is essential for human connection. Slows the heart rate down, allows the lungs to breather, helps the gut bacteria communicate with the brain along the microbiome. 

Since it runs through much of the body & impacts so many bodily functions, it can trigger a wide number of symptoms. Loss of gag reflex, hoarseness, whispering or a nasal voice, irregular heart rate, changes in blood pressure, decrease in stomach acid, acid reflux or GERD, anxiety, headaches, depression, IBS & more. 

Vagus nerve stimulation has been shown to be effective for various conditions like depression, Alzheimer's, obesity & more. It's possible to stimulate the nerve on your own: exposing yourself to cold temps, breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, singing, chanting, exercising, laughter, massage, eating probiotics & omega 3 fats. Our physical & mental well-being are intimately interwoven & the vagus nerve is largely why. It's one of the most important nerves in the body!!

Nature's Aspirin....White Willow Bark

This bark is called nature's 'aspirin' for a reason! There's fewer side effects than NSAID for one thing. It's been used for thousands of years as an anti-inflammatory, pain reliever, analgesic, fever reducer & an antipyretic. It an help relieve back pain, headaches, muscle pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, scavenge free radicals, reduce oxidative stress and more!!

White willow trees (Salix alba) have a bark that contains salicin & salicylic acid and they work in similar ways as acetylsalicylic acid which is the active component in OTC pain relievers. In the 1800's salicin was used to develop regular aspirin! These trees are members of the Salicaceae plant family & are found in Europe, Central Asia & Northern Africa. Actually there are quite a few of these trees that have this bark to help made medicines, supplement & herbal remedies. White willow, black or pussy willow, crack willow, purple willow & European willow. There are over 400 species of willow bark trees.

Salicin reduces the production of pain inducing chemicals in your nerves. Once the salicin breaks down in the body into various salicylate derivatives, they contain a variety of health promoting qualities. The effects might take longer to kick in, but it tends to last longer with no serious side effects like OTC aspirins.

White willow bark supports the immune system, provides antioxidants & defends against bacteria & viruses due to it's polyphenol & flavonoid content. Some say it can help with metabolic health. 

Consuming too much should be used with caution because of the salicin content. Use with caution if you have bleeding disorders, kidney disease or failure, sensitivity to aspirin, asthma, ulcers, skin rashes, itching, upset stomach., diabetes, gout, hemophilia, liver disease or have had recent surgeries. Young children, if you are pregnant or breast feeding or if you are allergic to aspirin in general or if you are sensitive to salicylates.

Soursop leaves & the big "C"

Is soursop a superfruit?? Soursop or Annona muricata is a tropical fruit that grown on plants native to Central America, Caribbean & parts of South America. It's packed with antioxidants, vitamins & unique compounds. It can help support your immune system & can aid in digestion.

It's also known as guana bana, guyabano, custard apple, graviola & paw paw. It's found worldwide today & known for its' unique flavor.  A cross between strawberry & pineapple with hints of coconut & citrus. The outer skin is green & spiky with a soft white pulp inside. It's wise to avoid the seeds tho. The leaves that are high in antioxidants that fight free radicals which may help prevent cell damage thereby developing cancer. The tea, made with the leaves contain a high level of Vit. C. The white fruit on the inside is typically eaten raw.

The leaves can also help relieve pain & reduce inflammation. It can shield the liver from damage, regulate blood sugar, can be effective against certain types of bacteria & fungi and can help to regulate blood pressure and may help eye disease. 

In test tube studies, it's been found to eliminate cancer cells, even leukemia...but, of course they say more research is needed. 

The leaves can also help block cancer activity in cells. They break them down until they fall apart, known as apoptosis or programmed cell death. The leaves can help kill even pancreatic cancer cells! They can treat infections caused by bacteria, parasites & herpes.

Those with low blood pressure, pregnant & breast feeding women, certain medications & those with gastro-intestinal sensitivity should use with caution.

Fever few!!

Fever few is a member of the daisy family & also goes by wild chamomile, feather few, bachelor's button. It's native to the Balkan Islands.

It's been taken for centuries for migraine issues. It may have anti-cancer benefits, it can help with pain & elevate one's mood.

Fever few may have some side effects such as tummy aches, heartburn, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation. Do not take while pregnant or breast feeding or if you have a bleeding disorder. Avoid if allergic to ragweed.

Traditionally, it's been used for fevers (hence the name), migraines, RA, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites & menstrual issues.

It contains active substances that include antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties. It may even have an affect on bacterial growth & histamine issues. It can prevent blood clots.

It contains anti-spasmodic properties. It has natural sedative effects like chamomile does.

Marshmallow Root!

One of the healthiest substances for your gut. The plant contains a mucilage, which is a gel like substance that forms a protective coating over irritated tissues which can help reduce inflammation such as coughs, sore throats, bronchitis, lining of digestive tract, gastric ulcers, ulcerative colitis, indigestion, gastritis, inflammation of the stomach lining, acid reflux, IBS, bacterial infections, joint pain, bloating, bladder & possibly UTI infections. It's a natural humectant which means it attracts and retains moisture, it also reduce pain & swelling.

It can be made into capsules, tea, cough syrup or the best one is a cold infusion. This way the mucilage doesn't interfere with the process of making it. One just drinks a couple ounces daily -- or more. 

Marshmallow root is loaded with antioxidants & flavonoids to help prevent formation of oxidative damage that leads to chronic disease. The actual plant and looks like brown fibrous husks. The flowers, roots & leaves are edible, but the roots is where all the potential healing is. It's not related to the sugary treat people eat today. It's native to Africa & parts of Europe that's been used for centuries. Used during Greek & Egyptian times over 2800 years ago!!!

It seems to have a diuretic effect, so it can lower fluid retention, edema or bloating. It activates the immune system which can remove damaged or dead cells from the body. It also contains potential neuroprotective effects.

Since it coats the stomach lining, it can interfere with the absorption of other drugs. Can interfere with normal blood sugar control, so beware. If you are pregnant, nursing or been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes or high cholesterol, use with caution.

The root is safely considered a "time-honored appraoch to strengthening the body". Typically tho, leads to very few side effetcs.

Moringa....The 'Miracle' Tree

It's gaining in popularity, but have you ever heard of moringa? Also called the Ben oil tree & it's been around for thousands of years. It's now got a reputation of one of the most impressive herbal supplements to hit the market & has awesome benefits for the body. There's been more than 1,300 studies, articles & reports on this wonderous herb. The whole tree is used in it's native tropical country. The moringa tree is native to the Himalayan mountains, parts of India & Africa as well. It's fast growing, leafy & comes packed with over 90 protective compounds to help the body. It was used extensively in traditional practices for over 4,000 years!

It's called a "miracle plant" for a reason. Fights inflammation & treats malnutrition. Even tho 99% of the tree is used for nutrition, the most popular & beneficial usages is in the leaves. The leaves "contain almost all essential nutrients, vitamins, amino acids, proteins, minerals, potassium, iron & zinc"! It provides a concentrated source of Vit. A & given to children to help with impaired immune function. The pods from the tree which contain the seeds hold a special type of healing oil...you can use it to cook with or apply it to the body. The seeds can also be used for water purification. The impurities from the water cling to the seeds & are easy to remove.

It's said that it tastes like a mix between horseradish & asparagus, the flavor isn't that great, but its a supplement that has the richest supplies of vital nutrients in the world,

One should start out taking 1/2 tsp daily for 3-5 days, increasing slowly as you get used to it. don't take it daily for long periods of time as it can cause upset tummy & can have a laxative affect.

I left the best part for last: Moringa's Benefits!! Vitamins A, B, B1-B6, C, D, E, K, Folate & Biotin. Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, rich in calcium, protein & iron, complete amino acids which are the (building blocks of the body). It helps control diabetes, epilepsy, heart issues & thyroid disorders, treats diarrhea, constipation, arthritis, kidney stones, boosts stamina & sound healing, hair growth, weight loss, fights wrinkles, dark circles, fights high blood pressure & cholesterol, reduces risk of cancer, treats depression, improves immunity, increases sex drive & can slow aging.

Now that's alot of goodness for the body from ONE plant -- IF you can get past the taste!!!

Hand Sanitizers....Do we really know???

Hand sanitizers are everywhere & they are so cheap, people think it's just great to have them around. But there are dangers lurking in them that can cause illness & toxicity in our body.  They can cause our skin to absorb 100X more of the hormone disruptor BPA. They don't actually protect you against germs. IF they work, they must re-applied repeatedly for them to be somewhat effective. Basically, for them to work you have to soak your hands in it constantly, but then you run a risk of many health problems that are associated with those ingredients. One of the most toxic  is Triclosan! This toxic chemical is found in sanitizers, soaps, dish soaps, shaving gels, toothpastes & more! It's been linked to some serious health issues including cancer & hormone disruption. The CDC (do we trust them?) found triclosan present in the urine of at least 75% of Americans -- that's a lot of pee!! Bottom line, don't use it!! Washing one's hands in hot water with soap cleans them just as good, if not better. OR find an all-natural alternative!

Tiny Chia Seeds!!

How much do you know about these little powerhouse seeds??? A staple in the Aztec & Mayan diets, these seeds have been touted for their health benefits for centuries. They are considered a superfood! From the plant Salvia hispanica L. They are believed to be native to Central America. 

These tiny seeds are highly nutritious. Just a single serving of these low carb seeds 2 tbs, only 2 tbs of these tiny seeds contain protein, fat, ALA, potassium, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, Vitamins B1 & B3, omega 3's. Micro-nutrients, polyphenols, maganese, selenium & copper.

They contain anti-oxidants, can help with digestive health, losing weight, can help with heart disease, reduce inflammation, promote kidney health, can help with blood pressure. The calcium, phosphorus & magnesium can help with bone health & can help reduce cholesterol.

You can sprinkle them on yogurt, oatmeal, puddings, smoothies, baked goods, cereal & rice dishes. They can absorb water & fat, so you can use them to thicken sauces & as a substitute for eggs, even make chia pudding with them. 

IF there are any side effects, it could be minor digestive issue, if you aren't used to having that much fiber in your diet.

Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack's Latin name is Fucus vesicalosus. Depending on it's location, it's also known as red fucus, rockweed, black tang, Atlantic kelp, bladderfucus & cutweed. Common types used as foods or supplements are Hijiki, wakame, ogo, kelp, nori, kombu, arame, dulse, sea moss, spirulina & blue spirulina.

It is a type of nutrient dense seaweed. Rich in vitamins & minerals, including calcium, iodine, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, Vitamins A & C. It's high in phytochemicals which can help with oxidative stress & it can promote your skin's natural collagen production.

It contains high levels of iodine which support the thyroid by producing the thyroid hormones T3 & T4. These help regulate metabolism. It's a demulcent, which soothes against irritants in the stomach, also supports proper growth & neurological development. Deficiency in these can cause goiter & hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is related to Hashimoto's & thyroiditis. If you aren't low in this mineral & you take excess amounts, it can lead to worse health issues. It can be used to reverse nutrient deficiencies & help with overall health. 

Rich in antioxidants, like beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, It's an anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, can support brain function, anti-coagulant, help with blood sugar levels & can be used for obesity.

Although it can help with health issues, it can also contain heavy metals, so one might want to be cautious. It contains exceptional combination of macro & micro nutrients. Iodine deficiency can cause heart complications. It can improve HDL cholesterol though.

Black Cohosh....Do you know???

Native to the eastern U.S. & to Canada. Some of the other names it goes by are black bugbane, black snakeroot, fairy candle, baneberry or bug wort. It goes by 2 latin names, which is unusual in itself....Actaea racemosa or Cimicifuga racemosa. It belongs to the buttercup family.

Used in NA medicine & is still used today for women's health. It's used for menopause symptoms, hormonal balance & fertility. A safe alternative for HRT therapy. Point of fact, the script Remifemin contains this herb as an active ingredient. 

Black cohosh is effective because it functions as a phytoestogen compound that mimics the hormone estrogen. With the exception of menopause symptoms, there's little evidence to support that it helps with other women's ailments. Menopause symptoms can include hot flashes, mood swings, irritability, irregular periods, sleep issues & anxiety.

It can help with fertility, though the research evidence is still out on that. It can possibly help with uterine fibroids & to regulate the menstrual cycles or PCOS.

Side effects may include mild digestive upset, skin rashes, breast & muscle pain. Do NOT take if you have a liver disease or taking other supplements or medications that can harm the liver. 

Don't confuse this one with it's sister plants blue cohosh & white cohosh, similar in structure, but can be dangerous to ingest.

Vitex OR Chaste Tree Berry!

 It's a deciduous shrub native to Asia & the Mediterranean. The vitex plant family includes 250 different species. The Vitex agnus-castus is the one most commonly used. Its been used for over 2,000 years since the middle ages. The berry is about the size of a peppercorn & its used to treat a variety of ailments. It's also used in Greek & Turkish medicines. This berry is also called Abraham's balm, lilac chaste tree & monk's pepper.

Vitex is mainly used to improve women's reproductive systems as well as a variety of symptoms of PMS & menopause. It helps the body raise it's own levels of progesterone. Researchers believe vitex works by decreasing levels of the hormone prolactin from the pituitary gland which helps rebalance the other two main ones, estrogen and progesterone, which in turn reduces PMS symptoms. 

It also appears to help with "cyclic mastalgia", a type of breast pain linked to menstruation. Vitex can be as effective as the common drug treatment. It also may help improve fertility and stabilize menstruation.

Chaste tree berry can also help with constipation, irritability, irregular periods, depression, cramps, migraines, anxiety and cravings where PMS is concerned. With menopause, it can help with many symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings & more. It can also help reduce uterine fibroids. A key way to help reduce these is to maintain a proper balance of hormones. 

It can also help reduce acne, treat endometriosis, can treat amenorrhea (sudden stoppage of periods), treats enlarged prostates & it's also believed to decrease libido.

Do NOT use if pregnant.

Flower Essences...Know What They Are???

Flower therapy, essence therapy, flower essences, flower remedies are all the names given to this alternative therapy that is based on the idea that flowers contain a healing vibrational energy. Not to be confused with aromatherapy which is all about essential oils. It's a form of herbal medicine, but it's actually in the homeopathic line.

This whole system was developed in the 1930's by Edward Bach who was a British physician. According to him, the energy of flowers can balance one's emotions which can bring about mental, physical & spiritual wellness. They may also help with anxiety, pain, immunity, depression & types of psychological disorders. 

It's fairly simple to make these essences. The flowers are submerged in natural spring water. The water is then boiled or placed in the sun with the belief the sun helps to extract the energy of the flowers...or adds to it? The water is then filtered & preserved with brandy. The finished product contains no flowers. One can add crystals to them as well. They can also be made without alcohol.

Even though 'they' say there is no scientific evidence these essences work, they come in several types. Pastilles, gum, liquid melts, lozenges, fizzy tablets, sprays & dropper bottles. There are also skin creams & bath salts available. 

There are flower essence therapists & practitioners that can provide these floral essences as well as a wide range of providers including massage therapists, naturopathic doctors, holistic nurses, acupuncturists, reiki practitioners & the like. 

You may have heard of one of the most popular ones called "Rescue Remedy".

They are safe for everyone including children, pets, pregnant women, the elderly & of course plants!

Ginger Essential Oil...

Ginger essential oil is also known as 'the oil of empowerment'. It's a flowering plant and belongs to the family Zingiberaceae which is the same family as cardamon & turmeric. It's been used in folk medicine for thousands of years.

It's a warming essential oil & actually the essential oil is better than the fresh or dried root because it contains the highest levels of gingerol, which is it's 'magical' ability to improve health so much. The sesquiterpenes, which make up approximately 90% of the e.o. have antibacterial & anti-inflammatory properties.

It has enormous health benefits....are you ready??? Pain relief, muscle aches, arthritis, migraines, headaches, anxiety, nervousness, depression, fatigue, nausea, aids digestion, menstrual disorders, it's a stimulant, tonic, laxative, antiseptic, helps with respiratory conditions, an expectorant, reduces cholesterol & blood clotting, antioxidant & can improve liver functions.

Pregnant women or breast feeding mothers consult with your physician. Do not give to children under 2. If you are on blood thinners, have blood pressure issues or sugar imbalances, consult your physician.

Saw Palmetto -- For Men's Health

Serenoa repens is Latin for Saw Palmetto which is a type of palm native to the SE. U.S. The berries from this palm are commonly used for men's health, specifically for prostate health, balancing hormones & helping with hair loss. It's loaded with antioxidants & is an anti-inflammatory.

Hair loss is common in men & can be caused by a variety of factors. Genetics, hormone changes, certain medical conditions & certain medication such as blood thinners & stimulants. 

Studies indicate saw palmetto may help to block the activity of the enzyme which converts testosterone into another sex hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone) that is linked to hair loss. It also helps to regulate the testosterone levels by decreasing this enzyme. Because this DHT is also involved in the enlargement of the prostate, in decreasing this DHT level, it can also improve prostate health & BPH.

Saw palmetto can help to improve urinary function associated with BPH or benign prostate hyperplasia. This condition causes an enlargement of the prostate gland which can decrease urine flow. BPH can be cause by hormonal changes, deteriorating blood vessels & a zinc deficiency.

This berry can help with prostate health as well. The prostate is a small gland between the bladder & the penis. It's responsible for maintaining sperm health. Research shows saw palmetto can help support prostate health & can help to prevent BPH & prostate cancer, along with urinary symptoms &  inflammation related to BPH.

Benefits also include treating colds, coughs, sore throat, asthma, chronic bronchitis, migraines, increases urine flow, promotes relaxation & enhances sexual drive. A natural remedy for impotence. 

Active ingredients in these berries contain fatty acids, plant sterols, flavonoids & polysaccharides which can reduce inflammation & help to strengthen the immune system. It inhibits testosterone from binding to & stimulating prostate cells, which can reduce a surplus of prostatic cells & reduce prostate enlargement. It can also help to destroy cancer cells.

In the elderly or women, saw palmetto also strengthens urinary organs & can be a natural remedy for kidney stones.

Those taking blood thinners, pregnant or nursing, have underlying health conditions be sure to consult a physician before starting on saw palmetto. Some side effects could be headaches, dizziness, nausea or constipation.

Removing Alcohol From Tinctures

Sometimes people want all the benefits from a tincture, but don't want the alcohol. Weather it be because of giving to children, AA members, religious reasons or that you simply don't want or like the alcohol. 

There is an overnight or day method which is really simple and doesn't harm the beneficial herbal ingredients in the tincture. 

Take a clean cup, preferably glass, and squirt the tincture drops, from the bottle's eyedropper, into the cup and then cover with a clean cloth.

Leave in a warm place overnight OR you can even do this during the day if you wish for about 12-24 hrs. During this time, the alcohol should have evaporated. Add some clean, filtered water and stir so that any dehydrated herbs from the tincture is reabsorbed into the water. Drink up!!

REMEMBER: The more you put in the glass, the longer it will take for it to evaporate. 

TIP: Keep the bulk of your tincture with the alcohol and just "de-alcohol" the amount you  need daily and the tincture should keep for years.

NEVER BOIL THE TINCTURE!! It changes the chemical structure of the herb & often kills valuable nutrients

A Word....or 2....on Supplements

This topic is one of my favorite 'soap boxes' to stand on....so here goes!

Go to any store now and pick up a OTC (Over The Counter) supplement. I don't care what store, what supplement you choose. You choose what you want by the name & picture on the front, right?? Most don't even bother to look at the back where the ingredient are listed. So here's the deal -- the listing on the back says each capsule/dosage is so many milligrams (mg). You read the ingredients & there are these fillers, binders, needless ingredients listed as well. So if each capsule has say 500 mg of said herb, how can there be that amount in each capsule if all those other fillers, etc. are in there??  The capsule would be huge if that were the case. Most capsules in the OTC supplements are '00' or double ott which holds between 500-600 mg per capsule. Bottom line - if there's fillers in the capsule too, how can there be that amount in the capsule that the bottle states????

Needless ingredients can include rice flour, magnesium steareate, cellulose, silicon dioxide and numerous more that can cause different side effects & can interfere with said supplements effect on what you are trying to accomplish by taking this supplement. 

When you are searching for supplements, try to find the cleanest one possible. Your body doesn't need all the extra 'stuff'. A wholesome tea or tincture or spice might be the better way to go, who knows?!!

Hawthorn Berries....

Hawthorne berries are also called thorn apple or  may tree. The berries, leaves & flowers are all used to improve health. They are tiny fruits that grow on trees & shrubs. These nutrient rich berries have a tart, tangy taste with a mild sweeetness. Many of these species are used to make bonsai trees!!

Often called the 'heart herb', these berries uplift & strengthen the heart. Been used for centuries for angina, high blood pressure, hardening of the arteries & irregular heart beat. They are loaded with anti-oxidants and a rich source of polyphenols & numerous flavanoids.

They have anti-inflammatory properties. Can act as a vasodilator -- can relax & open constricted blood vessels, ultimately lowering blood pressure. Ongoing research is promising in the reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood too.

The berries contain fiber & can act as a pre-biotic, both are vital to good digestion. 

They are best known for treating heart failure (where the heart can't properly pump blood). Studies have shown improvements in heart function & heart failure symptoms.

These berries are loaded with flavanoids, which are potent anti-oxidants, known to effectively decrease inflammation while boosting immune function. 

The health benefiting compounds can help improve blood flow, guard against blood vessel damage, helps to dilate blood vessels. Among the many beneficial chemical compounds found in these berries include quercetin, rutin, choline, Vit. B1, Vit B2, Vit C, calcium, iron, malic acid & minerals.

It's also an intestinal tonic which can reduce bloating & cramping while make the environment less 'friendly' for parasites.

It is very well known as a cardiotonic herb & is very beneficial for all sorts of heart concerns including heart disease, angina pectoris, artherosclerosis just to name a few. These powerful benefits come from it's high polyphenolic content. It can help with blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output & exercise tolerance, high cholesterol, blood flow in general & anxiety.

Precautions: do NOT use if pregnant or breast feeding. Do NOT give to children. A noticeable improvement could take up to 12 weeks & is recommended for short term use in some cases. If you are taking beta blockers, digoxin, CCB'S (calcium channel blockers), nitrates or other heart meds, be sure to talk with your doctor before you start taking this. 

The Lovely Hibiscus!!

This awesome lovely flower has so many amazing benefits and it's soooo pretty...on the bush & in a tea!!

It's Latin name is Hibiscus sabdariffa and there are many different species. It has a tart flavor and is similar to cranberries.

Hibiscus neutralizes free radicals (cancer-causing cells), helps to lower blood pressure, can fight bacterial infections and can help with weight loss. It's loaded with anti-oxidants, Vitamin C, minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, niacin, Mg, folic acid & potassium. It can help lower cholesterol & triglycerides. It is a well known fact that hibiscus can help lower blood pressure on both the systolic & diastolic. It can improve liver health. It also has diuretic properties which can also lower blood pressure. It is high in polyphenols which possess powerful anti-cancer properties. 

This flower can also help to calm down the nervous system, reduces anxiety & depression. Helps to fight inflammation as well. 

If you already have low blood pressure, do NOT take this. NOT recommended for pregnant women or those on birth control.

Motherwort, do you know of it??

This herb has been used for thousands of years for heart disease, anxiety, irregular periods and more. 

It's also called lion's tail and the Latin name is Leonurus cardiaca. It is an upright, prickly bush with dark green leaves and furry pink or purple flowers. It belongs to the mint family, has a bitter taste and is considered an invasive species. 

Motherwort contains many different beneficial compounds. It's antioxidants properties include flavonoids, sterols, triterpenes & tannins. In addition to all that it contains vitamins, minerals, oleic acid, alkaloids & terpenoids.

Antioxidants, as we know help protect against cancer, arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer's & Parkinson's.

It can help to reduce a rapid or irregular heart rate caused by stress or anxiety, and who don't have that these days?! In a small research study group, they noted significant findings including improvements in blood pressure.

Motherwort can stimulate uterine contractions. It's good for the nervous system as it can help to calm & relax, it helps alleviate tension & irritability. The relaxant effect is usually on muscles, tendons, ligaments & membranes. It can help with many female issues as well: PMS, painful, delayed or lack of menses & night sweats.

Can be beneficial for the kidneys & digestion. Pain from MS, fibromyalga, chronic fatigue, intermittent fever, coughing, sneezing, respiratory issues, can lower blood pressure & can prevent calcification of the arteries.

It's an anti-spasmodic, anti-hypertensive, stimulant, has diuretic properties, stimulates the appetite, improves the cardiac function.

Do NOT take if you have bleeding disorders, have low blood pressure, taking beta blockers, blood thinners, sedative medications. OR if you are within 2 weeks of a surgical procedure.