Please Note: The information in this section of the book is not intended to replace the services of a trained and qualified professional in the healing arts. Self medication of various states of ill health without competent assistance could be harmful or dangerous. This information is not intended to replace the treatment suggested by a primary care healer.

Herbs and Spices have been used for thousands of years to address the physical complaints or increase the well being of people all over the world, throughout every developed culture. Interest in herbs and spices and other supplements has grown in recent years. As with vitamin supplements, there is an ongoing debate in the scientific community about the value of taking herbs, spices and non-vitamin supplements.

Many scientific studies touting benefits have been conducted in other countries with a longer history of herb and spice use than the United States has had. In many instances the results of scientific studies are extremely promising. Many of these herbs, spices and supplements are widely recommended by doctors throughout Europe.

Please remember that intelligent, informed self care includes consulting the health professionals that you trust the most as part of educating yourself and taking responsibility for your own health and that of your family. Because people have individual responses to herbs, spices and supplements, or because you may be taking medication that might be affected by he simultaneous consumption of herbs, spices and supplements. Consult your health care provider before you begin taking any new or untried herbs, spices and supplements. If you are pregnant or nursing, or if you wish to give supplements to your children, please check with a primary care healer who has experience in this field first. Not all primary care healers have either the necessary training or experience.

The directions listed on each bottle of most herbs, spices and supplements in general, represent the supplier's best recommendation for the average person. If you have never taken the supplement before, you may want to begin with smaller amounts than those listed, to gauge your personal reaction to it. Do not exceed the recommended directions unless you are working closely with a knowledgeable health care provider who can monitor your response.

As with any crop, herbs and spices grown in different regions or different years may have differences in content, that's why, whenever possible, it is important to check on the characterizing ingredient that must appear in the supplement. A characterizing ingredient is the component of the herb that is believed to confer its benefits.

Standardizing these ingredients makes sure that each batch of product contains the same level of the characterizing ingredient. It is the only way of ensuring that each tablet or capsule has a known and consistent level of potency. Herbs and supplements are usually assayed to ensure that they contain the stated potency. Following is a list of common supplements including their Latin designation, their action in the body, and their reported uses..

Acidophilus

Characterizing Ingredient: Lactobacillus acidophilus: several millions per capsule.

Actions: Your colon is populated with many types of bacteria. Some are beneficial, others are not; the friendly bacteria help keep the unfriendly ones in check. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a friendly bacteria. It converts some lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid. It is one of the active cultures in yogurt.

Reported Uses: May help maintain the health of the digestive tract. May be helpful for people with lactose intolerance; may be useful in reintroducing friendly bacteria into the intestine after antibiotic use.

Aloe (Aloe Vera, Liliaceae)

Aloe is best known for its' healing ability for burns, scalds, radiation, excessive sun exposure, abrasions, infections, lacerations and poison ivy. It has anti-bacterial, anesthetic, as well as tissue restorative properties. It may also be used on blistered skin and to relieve cold sores. Aloe tends to deteriorate after exposure to the atmosphere. In work I researched in Mexico with many indigenous peoples, a leaf of Aloe combined with a crushed or blended apple or unfiltered apple juice, using enough apple to make the combination palatable, would stop dysentery within twenty to thirty minutes.

Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis Matricaria camomilla)

Actions: stomachic, tonic, anti-inflammatory, vermifuge and anti-bacterial.

Chamomile, known for it's apple-like fragrance, is an immune stimulator. It is helpful in healing ulcers, upsets stomach, headache and hysteria. Chamomile tea has been known to relieve the inflammation of arthritic and rheumatic discomfort. It is also recognized for relieving menstrual cramps and in killing vaginal yeast. The tea is widely known as a relaxant and to induce sleep. When sponged on the body and left to dry it may also be used as an insect repellent. Large amounts (over 3 cups daily), have been known to cause nausea and vomiting.

Chromium Picolinate

When deciding whether or not to take any supplement, there are three questions you should ask: Is it safe? Is it effective? Do I need it?

An essential trace mineral, chromium is required by our body in very small amounts - estimated to be about 50 to 200 mcg (micrograms) per day. Chromium is best known for its role in the metabolism of glucose. Research shows that it may improve the ability of glucose intolerant people to remove excess sugar from their blood after eating.

The typical American diet which is dominated by processed foods is low in chromium containing foods, such as brewer's yeast and whole grains. In the book, The Chromium Program, Jeffrey a. Fisher M.D., says that the average diet is not only low in chromium, but is chromium robbing, since consuming processed foods depletes the body's chromium supply, and the chromium containing foods we do eat may be grown in "low chromium soil."

In recent years, some people have chosen to supplement their diets with chromium, often in the form of either chromium picolinate (chromium bonded to picolinate) or chromium polynicotinate (chromium bonded to niacin). Both are designed to make the chromium more absorbable in the body.

Gary Evans, Ph.D. in an interview with Better Nutrition, said that chromium picolinate has been tested for mutagenesis by using a well known method, known as the Ames Test, a test for screening chemicals to determine whether or not they are mutagenic. Evans also believes that other research, in particular, that conducted by well-known chromium researcher, Richard A. Anderson, Ph.D. has shown chromium picolinate to be both safe and effective.

The Washington, D.C. based Council for Responsible Nutrition also gave chromium picolinate the OK in a recent issue of its CRN News Supplement, saying, "Numerous studies in animals and humans support the safety of chromium picolinate. DNA experiments performed with bacteria and rats concluded that this compound does not cause chromosome damage."

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)

Characterizing Ingredient: Coenzyme Q10

Reported uses: Besides being part of the energy chain in your cells, Co-enzyme Q10 is believed to function as an antioxidant in lipoprotein tissue (Lipoprotein is the last "L" in LDL and HDL cholesterol) and to help stabilize cell membranes. It may work alone or as a back up for vitamin E.

Reported Uses: low circulating levels of Co-enzyme Q10 have been found in persons with heart disease. Studies have found that supplementation with Co-enzyme Q10 has improved heart function in patients.

Coenzyme Q10 is an essential element of the mitochondria. These are the energy producing section of the cells of the body. It is involved in the manufacture of ATP (adrenotriphosphate), the energy component of all body processes. The human body cannot function very well without a good supply of coenzyme Q10. This can be synthesized in the human body, many people are deficient in this element because of the way they live. Deficiencies may lead to heart conditions and in severe cases even heart failure. Coenzyme Q10 levels generally reduced as we go through the aging process.

This element is used mainly in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, cardio-myopathy, angina, congestive heart failure and mitral valve prolapse. Along with heart conditions coenzyme Q10 is also used to treat immune deficiency disorders, enhancing athletic performance, periodontal conditions, weight and diabetes. Natural medicaments often take longer to work than their synthetic counterparts, be patient it may take two months to show results.

According to Folkers, Vadhanavikit and Mortensen in a paper for the National Academy of Sciences state that biopsy results from heart tissue in patients with various cardiovascular diseases showed a coenzyme Q10 deficiency in 50-75% of the cases. Diglesi, Langsjoen and others in papers done as late as 1994 state that coenzyme Q10 has been shown to lower blood pressure in patients with high blood pressure, within two to three months after inceptive. A deficiency of this nutrient was found in four out of ten patients with high blood pressure.

Bliznakov, Mayer and others back in the seventies refer to coenzyme Q10 as an enhancer of the immune system. It has also been shown that people who are obese are deficient in coenzyme Q10. In fact low levels were found in more than half of the patients tested as reported in Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q10 as reported by Van Gaal, Vadhanavikit and others.

The general dosage is between 50 to 150 mg. daily, although for more severe cases 150-300 mg. per day. It has been found to be synergistic with more any other substance intake, although the usual cautions should apply with pregnant and lactating women, unless suggested by their primary care healer.

Echinacea

Characterizing Ingredients: (Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia, Compositae)

Reported uses: Studies have shown echinacea stimulates phagocytosis (in which cells destroy invading bacteria and viruses) and increases mobility of leukocytes and other white blood cells important in maintaining our bodies' defense mechanisms.

Reported Uses: Studies have backed its usage in maintaining the health of the immune system.

Echinacea is best known for its immune stimulant properties and for infectious conditions, colds, flu, and boils. The roots are used for a tonic and as a blood purifier, bee stings, eczema, snakebite, tumors, hemorrhoids and streptococcal infections. It tends to knit the skin and prevent bacteria from penetrating the tissue.

It is an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory for arthritic conditions. It also helps to preserve the white blood cells during radiation therapy.

Enzymes

What are you dealing with health wise? Premature wrinkles, digestive troubles, high cholesterol levels, atherosclerosis? If so, chances are you have enzyme deficiencies! Enzymes are the catalysts of the human body, and they make metabolism possible. Best known for their roles in digestion, enzymes are responsible for every function that takes place in your body. During every moment of our lives, over 3,000 different enzymes are constantly renewing and changing, often at unbelievable speed.

Each enzyme promotes specific reactions. Protease breaks proteins into smaller molecules, amylase splits carbohydrates (starches and sugars), and lipase breaks down fats, while antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, all fight free radicals. Other enzymes are responsible for storage and release of energy, aid respiration, help in reproduction, and improve vision.

An enzyme shortage may lead to imbalances, which could eventually lead to disease. For example, people with lactose intolerance lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose, the di-saccharide sugar in milk, so they must avoid all dairy products, or they may be helped by taking lactase enzymes. But lactase only works on lactose, not on other substances, such as the milk protein, casein, an equal cause of concern. This is due to the fact that enzymes are so specific.

Poor digestion is one of the first signs of an enzyme deficiency. Another indicator of an enzyme shortage that is not as easy to see, since its effects are at the cellular level, is free radical formation. Wrinkling is the most obvious sign of this process occurring. The antioxidant enzymes fight the free radicals that destroy our bodies from the outside and the inside. If you don't have enough enzymes, your body's ability to function, to repair itself when injured, and to ward off disease may be impaired. That's why an enzyme deficiency can cause so many problems.

Traditionally, foods have been the primary source for enzymes; however, the heat of cooking foods above 180 degrees, can kill enzymes. Uncooked foods (such as fruits and vegetables) are usually high in enzyme activity, unless hey have been treated with preservatives or food additives, held in storage for long periods, or irradiated, dried, or frozen.

Even if you're eating an optimal diet, you might need enzyme supplements if you have a problem digesting or absorbing the nutrients in your foods. In addition, any health condition can severely impact your health status, and therefore your enzyme systems. Supplemental enzymes may in some cases be helpful.

Available in tablets, capsules, or powder, most enzymes are taken orally, and can be found in your local health food store. However, some enzyme products can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) which allows the substance to be more easily absorbed, topically (in ointment form), or by other means, in more serious cases. Enzymes are necessary for everything that happens in your body. Be sure you are giving it an optimal supply.

Evening Primrose Oil

Characterizing Ingredient: Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA): 9%.

Reported uses: Prostaglandin E1, a metabolite involved in the inflammatory response, is made from GLA.

Reported Uses: May aid in reducing atopic (skin) and other types of inflammation; studies have shown both positive and negative results. Some women find it useful when taken in the days prior to menstruation.

Garlic (Odorless)

Characterizing Ingredient: Equivalent to 1,200 milligrams of garlic per tablet (400-mg concentrate); four milligrams allicin potential.

Reported uses: An unstable and odiferous substance, allicin is made when alliin and allinase react. Enteric coated supplements pass through the acid conditions of the stomach and are digested in the small intestine. There, allicin is formed and absorbed before it degrades, and odor is averted. Allicin has antibacterial properties and also forms a compound called ajoene, which is believed to prevent platelet aggregation, thereby reducing blood clotting.

Reported Uses: Studies have shown that garlic has antibacterial effects and can reduce blood cholesterol. May support cardiovascular health. Garlic is a member of the onion family, and is the second oldest medicinal known. It has been used for centuries to combat bacteria, parasites and more recently viruses. Two to three cloves per day are said to lessen the chance of heart attack and stroke. It is also a good decongestant and expectorant. It contains several antioxidants, is an antispasmodic, lowers cholesterol, blood pressure and is an anti-inflammatory.

Ginkgo Biloba

Characterizing Ingredient: ( Flavonoid glycosides; Terpeneloctones, Ginkgoaceae): derived from leaves.

Reported uses: Those with blood clotting disorders should avoid using ginkgo A vasodilator and free radical scavenger, the characterizing ingredients in ginkgo are associated with improved blood flow and increased oxygen metabolism, especially in the arteries and capillaries in the brain.

Reported Uses: Widely recommended in Europe for poor circulation, short term memory loss, headache, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and relate disorders.

Ginkgo is the oldest known tree to still survive. It is used to help treat memory loss, deafness, impotence, stroke, heart disease and aging. In Chinese healing ginkgo is used for edema of the hands and feet due to increases in cold, damp and humidity. It is also used for treating asthma. Both the Chinese and Japanese use ginkgo seeds roasted to treat digestive problems and also to prevent inebriation from alcohol. It is also used for tinnitus o(ringing in the ear), vertigo, high blood pressure, allergies and impotence.

People with clotting disorders should avoid using ginkgo. Among the possible side effects are possible nausea, irritability, diarrhea, vomiting and restlessness. Medicinal amounts should be used under the guidance of a health care professional. Generally improvement is seen within two weeks time. Commercial preparations are recommended.

Ginseng (Korean)

Characterizing Ingredient: Ginsenosides (triterpenoid saponins):

Actions: This is an Oriental ginseng, also known as red or hot ginseng. In Chinese medicine it is thought to have stimulative properties.

Reported Uses: stimulant, sedative, mild laxative, diaphoretic, tonic, stomachic and alterative. Ginseng is used for many reasons, but the most commonly agreed upon use is as a general tonic. Ginseng is called an adaptogen. It is believed to improve the body's ability to adapt to stress.

Perhaps the world's best-known herb, panax ginseng, has been used medicinally in Asia for more than 5,000 years. In China, ginseng has been used since the beginnings of written history. At times ginseng has been valued more highly than gold. Western science is now directing its' attention to this amazing herb. In the Western world today, ginseng is commonly considered an adaptogenic herb. This means that it strengthens the immune system and body functions to help sufferers adapt to the effects of physical stress. It is most generally used as a health tonic and to increase stamina and energy during activity.

In ancient times healers in India, Russia, China, and Japan all revered ginseng for its medicinal and health-enhancing properties. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), ginseng is used for many purposes, including regulating blood pressure and blood sugar, as a sexual tonic for both men and women, and to strengthen overall health when the body is run down.

The botanical name panax comes from the Greek stem for panacea, meaning "to cure all." The Chinese name for ginseng, ren shen, means man root for its characteristic shape resembling the trunk, arms and legs of a human being.

Closely related to panax ginseng, wild American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius) has been widely used by Native Americans. Unfortunately, this North American plant is becoming endangered in the wild due to over collection and habitat loss. American ginseng is now cultivated extensively and environmentally conscious consumers look to cultivate sources of ginseng products.

Clinical studies confirm that ginseng can help enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve coordination and reaction time. There is also evidence that ginseng can boost immune function, helping the body fight off infections. In laboratory studies, ginseng has shown potential in protecting liver and heart health, regulating the function of reproductive hormones, normalizing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and improving memory and learning. Studies in humans are needed to investigate the effectiveness of ginseng in these same areas.

Ginseng is considered energizing, and those taking ginseng often report feelings of improved overall well being. At recommended doses, ginseng is well tolerated by most people. However, taking large doses of ginseng in combination with stimulants, including caffeine, is not recommended. Ginseng is best avoided by those with high blood pressure and during pregnancy.

The ginseng root is the part of the plant used medicinally. Today ginseng root is available commercially in a number of forms including dried root, liquid extract, powder, capsule, and tablet. Standardized extracts in capsule or tablet form are also available. Standardization ensures that a consistent level of active compounds are present in the extract. Most clinical studies have utilized ginseng extract standardized to 4% ginsenosides at a dosage of up to 500mg/day.

The Asian ginseng most prized by the Chinese is panax ginseng. Other Asian ginseng species include Japanese ginseng (panax japonicus) and sanchi or tienchi ginseng (panax notoginseng). These plants all have somewhat different properties. Even within the single species of panax ginseng, different traditional preparation methods result in different reactions. Red Asian ginseng, for example, is steamed and cured, producing a product that is considered more stimulating than white ginseng.

Thousands of clinical and laboratory studies have been conducted in China, Korea, and Japan to investigate the actions and chemistry of ginseng. The most profound effects of ginseng in humans have been for improving resistance to fatigue, and enhancing mental and physical performance under stress, including sleep deprivation, and rigorous athletic training.

Goldenseal

Reported uses: laxative, tonic, alterative, anti-septic, periodic and diuretic.

Goldenseal has a positive effect on the mucus membranes, and is helpful in catarrhal conditions, whether oral, nasal or intestinal. It is a tonic for spinal nerves, helps in digestive biliousness and leucorrhea. It also helps with ulcerations of the mouth, stomach and bowels, and may be used in dysentery and diarrhea. It may also relieve nausea during pregnancy. A douche of goldenseal can help sooth vaginal and uterine inflammations. It may also be used on open sores and skin conditions. Those with hypoglycemia and hypertension should avoid using it internally. Goldenseal tea may help relieve pyorrhea and sore gums when brushed on these areas. Those suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes or glaucoma, should not use this herb.

Grape Seed Extract

Characterizing Ingredient: Proanthocyanidin:

Actions: Proanthocyanidins have been shown to have antioxidant effects.

Reported Uses: May reduce oxidation of lipoproteins. Oxidation of lipoproteins is believed to be one of the first steps in the formatting of cholesterol plaque (hardening of the arteries).

According to a recent Japanese study reported in Atherosclerosis magazine, a small amount of grapeseed extract added to the diets of animals prevented a certain form of heart disease known as aortic atherosclerosis. This research may well apply to humans as well.

Grapeseed extract is rich in a class of polyphenols, known as proanthocyanidins. These were added to the food of the rabbits in the study. Researchers found that although the grapeseed did not affect the rabbits serum cholesterol levels, it did lower considerably the cholesterol in the wall of the aorta, the major artery carrying oxygenized blood away from the heart.

Typically in the case of atherosclerosis, the smooth muscle cells show oxidation. The aortic walls of the rabbits fed grapeseed oil did not. Proanthocyanidins are powerful water soluble antioxidants. These concentrate in the artery walls, so small doses are generally sufficient. Researchers suggest taking grapeseed oil extract in doses of about 1.25 grams per day for a person at 110 pounds of body weight.

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)

Reported uses: sedative, anti-spasmodic, vasodilator and tonic;

Cardiac disease kills people. In fact despite untold advances in surgical techniques, and pharmaceutical medications, cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in America, responsible for as much as 46 percent of all deaths in he United States. Hundreds of thousands of additional lives are devitalized by circulatory and heart problems, and by medications and surgeries done in an attempt to correct these problems. Heart disease is, in large part, controllable.

One of the components required for healthy heart function is healthy circulation: blood vessels that are strong but supple, free of clogging and damage. A healthy diet, especially one low in animal and saturated fats, lots of water, and regular exercise can keep your vessels well. Herbs too, have a lot to offer, and their medicinal effect can be quite amazing.

One of the things that many herbs do quite well is improve circulation. Among the best, is hawthorn. This beautiful, ornamental, and medicinal tree is a lovely addition to any yard or garden. Hawthorn can grow to 30 feet in height, producing small flowers in spring and dark red berries in summer. Three parts of the plant are used as healing agents, the flowers, the leaves, and the berries. Hawthorn is rich in flavonoids, particularly anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins, and condensed polyphenolic tannins known as oligomeeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs. The flavonoids and OPCs are medicinal components in many plants. OPCs can be found in lime flower, grape seed, and pine bark. Flavonoids are what give red wine its benefit for heart disease.

Hawthorn has long been used as a heart tonic. As a tea, hawthorn makes a beverage that is easy on the palate. It is also available in tinctures, encapsulated powders, and solid extract; a jelly-like substance made from the berries, flowers, and leaves. Because it is a slow acting "medicine", it is usually taken over an extended period of time taking weeks, months, and sometimes years. Rudolf Weiss, MD, German physician and author of Herbal Medicine, calls hawthorn a "typical representative of the gentle herbal drugs", safe for extended use.

European studies have confirmed hawthorn to be most effective for the following cardiac conditions: angina, myocardial weakness, arrhythmia, and congestive heart failure. Under treatment with hawthorn, patients with congestive heart failure note improvement in five areas: endurance, shortness of breath, ankle edema, nighttime urination, and mental and emotional well being. Animal studies have shown this herb to be beneficial in reducing LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and total triglycerides, and in decreasing the depositing of fat in the liver and aorta. Many older people are troubled by erratic heart rates and by palpitations, sometimes accompanied by breathlessness or anxiety. Because hawthorn increases blood flow through coronary vessels, this plant medicine can reduce such heart symptoms.

Hawthorn also has antioxidant activity, which acts as a protector of the blood vessels. It is useful as a follow-up medicine in patients who have had strokes or heart attacks. It also benefits patients with high blood pressure because, while hawthorn itself, will not lower blood pressure, its antioxidant and coronary dilation activity can help reduce the risk of damage caused by hypertension.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas contain elements that can heal and even prevent several common conditions. Many prescription drugs are resourced from the elements in herbs. Always check with a professional knowledgeable in herbal compounds. Be aware that chamomile, goldenrod, yarrow and marigold will on occasion cause allergic reactions. Be especially careful of chrysanthemum, ragweed and asters. Nutmeg, juniper, the leaves of senna and aloe, dock root and buckthorn bark can cause diarrhea.

Lecithin

Characterizing Ingredient: Phosphatidylcholine

Actions: Lecithin, or phosphatidylcholine, are an important part of cell membranes, lipoproteins (part of LDL and HDL cholesterol), and the lining of the lung. It is also involved in nerve transmission.

Lecithin helps to metabolize fat in the body and aid s in the digestion and absorption of fats. It is found in soy beans, nuts, unrefined vegetable oils, whole wheat and corn. Lecithin also helps to break up cholesterol deposits and pass it through the arterial walls, thus helping to prevent atherosclerosis. It also helps to prevent the formation of gallstones, as well as distribute body weight. It also helps purify the kidneys and cleanse the liver. Suggested dose is two tablespoons daily.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Characterizing Ingredient: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid); DHA (Docasahexaenoic Acid)

Actions: Omega 3 fatty acids, the unique type of fat found in fish, and the oils of certain seeds, have been shown to reduce platelet aggregation, thereby reducing blood clotting. They are also precursors for certain prostagladins, which control the inflammatory response in the body.

Reported Uses: Studies have shown that Omega 3 fatty acids help reduce high blood triglyceride levels (their effect on blood cholesterol is not clear at this time). Omega 3 fatty acids may help reduce the inflammatory response in joints and other tissues.

Psyllium

Characterizing Ingredient: Psyllium husk fiber;

Reported Uses: Psyllium is bulk-forming and is used to relieve constipation. Drink plenty of water.

Rennin

Characterizing Ingredient: Lactase and Rennin.

Actions: Lactase and rennin are enzymes, which help digest milk sugar and protein.

Reported Uses: May aid in digestion of milk and milk products.

The first step in making cheese is to separate the milk into curds and whey. Curds are milk solids that consist of casein, which is milk protein, water, fat and lactose or milk sugar. Whey is a yellowish liquid composed of lactose, whey protein and water.

There are two stages in the coagulation of milk. First the starter cultures composed of lactic acid bacteria, which are among the friendly bacteria. These help to curdle the milk and determine the eventual texture and flavor of the milk.

Following this is added the rennet which is the clotting enzyme factor. Rennet is the dried extract of rennin. This is the enzyme that is most responsible for the clotting of the milk. The traditional base of this element was from an animal source, although vegetables sources may also be employed in place of the rennin. Science has also created microorganisms which produce enzymes that are similar in action to the animal rennet.

In modern times we have forms of rennet derived from animal, vegetable or microorganisms. Animal rennet is derived from the stomach of a suckling mammal, generally a calf or lamb. This has been the traditional way to make cheese. Vegetable rennet is derived from plants and modified to mimic the animal form. Microbial rennet is created through the process of fermentation. These include bacteria and fungi.

Saw Palmetto

Characterizing Ingredient: (Fatty acids and sterols)

Actions: Has weak anti-androgenic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Reported Uses: Widely used in Europe to support prostate health, especially in men over the age of 50.

Spirulina

Characterizing Ingredient: (Beta carotene: 400-1000 IU; B-12: 1 mcg; Protein: 200-400 mg per tablet)

Actions: Spirulina is an excellent vegetarian source of vitamin B-12 and also contains beta-carotene.

St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum)

This plant has been used for centuries to treat nervous disorders, anti-viral conditions, inflammation, wound healing and depression. The latest research on this herbal element has focused on some of the constituents which make up St. John's Wort such as hypericin and pseudo-hypericin which have been found to be effective anti-depressants.

St. John's Wort contains a number of elements including, along with hypericin, flavonoids, phyto-sterols, tannins and xanthrones. Both hypericin and the xanthrones contain monoamine oxidase (MAO), which is a standard treatment for depression, as has been reported in a study published in the British Medical Journal. In several placebo controlled studies the number of side effects were more frequent in the non-hypericum group. Researchers recommended hypericin for mild depression due to it's activity and limited side effects.

In 1994, Vorbach and others conducted a study of 135 patients diagnosed with depression who were given either St. John's Wort or imipramine, an anti-depression drug. The trial period lasted for six weeks. The success of the therapy was determined by using the depression scales (HAMD & CGI). All tests showed slightly better in the St. John's group, and also that the adverse reactions were lower with the St. John's Wort than with the prescription drug.

In Germany, although hypericum had been used as a folk remedy for centuries, it is now licensed for use in insomnia, depression and anxiety. Research is currently being conducted to study the anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, as well as an aid in treating auto-immune disorders.

The few cautions are a photo-sensitivity and a hyper-sensitivity when the skin is exposed to the sun. Avoid using these if you are pregnant or nursing. The standardized extracts should contain at least .3% hypericin.

Tea Tree Oil

The tea tree (Melalenuca alternifolia), a member of the Myrtaccae family, shares its roots with the eucalyptus tree, as a native of northern New South Wales, Australia. It received its peculiar name when the British explorer, Captain James Cook, landed at Botany Bay in 1770 and observed the local people drinking a tea made from the leaves of this shrub-like tree, thus giving it its common name.

The essential oil of the tea tree is renowned for its antifungal and antiseptic qualities, and has enjoyed worldwide popularity since the 1980's. But, the people of its homeland have appreciated the health-giving benefits of tea tree for many centuries.

Tea tree was an important medicinal for Native Australians. They drank tea made of the leaves and applied tea tree poultices to their wounds and skin disorders.

During World War II, tea tree oil was added to machine cutting oils used in Australian munitions factories to reduce the frequency of infections occurring from workers cutting their hands on sharp metal filings. Tea tree oil was so widely accepted as an effective germicide that it was standard issue in Australian Army and Navy first-aid kits.

Australian scientists had already begun clinical testing of the antibacterial properties of tea tree as early as the 1920s. One physician, Dr. Arthur Penfold of the Sydney Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, found that tea tree oil was at least 10 times more effective than carbolic acid (phenol), a standard antiseptic in use at the time. Penfold presented tea tree oil as a "dependable and effective topical treatment" to the Royal Society in 1923. Soon, private physicians and public hospitals began using the oil to sterilize instruments, and to prevent infection, in patients who underwent surgery.

Pure tea tree oil contains 48 known compounds, two of which are of critical importance. These include terpinene-4-ol and cineole. Terpinene-4-ol is believed to be responsible for the healing potential of the oil, while cineole lends its antiseptic qualities. However, since all 48 compounds behave synergistically, variations in processing methods, and even differences occurring naturally in crops from year to year, can affect the quality and effectiveness of the oil.

For instance, an elevated level of cineole can produce skin irritation and degrade the effects of terpinene-4-ol. For this reason, the Australian Standards Association (ASA) has established certain criteria to ensure quality in the manufacturing of tea tree oil. According to ASA, quality tea tree oil must contain all 48 constituents, unadulterated; the terpinene-4-ol content must be no less than 30 percent of the entire solution, and the cineole content cannot exceed 15 percent. Typically, most tea tree oils found on the market contain from 35 percent to 45 percent terpinene-4-ol and 5 percent cineole.

There have been several recent studies that validate claims that tea tree oil is effective in inhibiting a wide range of organisms. In fact, the antifungal activity tea tree oil has been assessed against at least 26 strains of dermatophyte species of bacteria and 54 yeasts, 32 of which were strains of Candida spp. The oil was found to be effective against all of them.

In one study, conducted last year, by the Department of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at Wilmington Hospital, Delaware, the activity of tea tree oil was evaluated against 58 clinical pathogens, including Candida, Aspergillus, Tricholphyton, Penicillium, and Epidermophyton species. Tea tree oil proved effective against all of the pathogens but a single strain of Escherichia floccosum. Tea tree oil has also shown to be effective against Escherichia coli, in the test tube, and, in a gaseous state (vapor), it demonstrated the ability to suppress a number of airborne fungi.

Some conditions which may be treated effectively with tea tree oil are:

Rashes, including diaper rash, psoriasis, eczema, poison ivy, and insect bites:

Combine 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil with 1/8 cup of cold-pressed "carrier" oil, such as avocado, apricot kernel, or sweet almond. Using a cotton ball, apply this solution directly to affected areas of the skin.

Note: This formula can also be used to speed the healing of burns and cuts.

Coughs, nasal, and bronchial congestion:

Add 10-15 drops of tea tree oil to a pan of hot water or a vaporizer.

Ringworm, athlete's foot, warts, or boils:

Apply 1-2 drops of tea tree oil undiluted directly to the affected areas.

Note: Do not apply the oil directly to sensitive facial skin. For areas on the face, dilute the tea tree oil with a cold-pressed oil.

Dandruff:

Add 7 drops of tea tree oil to a quarter-sized amount of shampoo in the palm of your hand. Using small circular motions, massage into the scalp with fingertips. Avoid contact with eyes.

Valerian

Valerian is a relaxant that may be used for anxiety, nervousness, headache, insomnia and intestinal cramps. The sedative element in valerian is valepotriates, similar to the ingredient in valium, but is milder and safer. Valerian is not affected by alcohol or barbituates, yet it can reduce blood pressure. Large amounts can cause nausea, headache, blurred vision and restlessness.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass juice is a powerful cleanser and as a result may cause some nausea. Chlorophyll will bring toxins stored in the cells or in the fatty tissues into the bloodstream. Wheatgrass juice is very high in enzymes and chlorophyll, containing up to 70% chlorophyll, recognized as an important blood builder. The essential molecule of chlorophyll closely resembles the hemin molecule. This combines with protein to form hemoglobin. In fact, about the only difference in the basic structure between the two is that chlorophyll contains magnesium as its' central atom, while hemin contains iron.

Wheat picks up 92 of the 102 minerals in the soil and contains all the vitamins so far isolated. One ounce of wheatgrass juice equals two pounds of produce. Chlorophyll will arrest the growth and proliferation of the unfriendly bacteria. It produce an unfavorable environment for bacterial growth. Rapp and Gurney at Loyola University established that water soluble chlorophyll inhibits the action of proteolytic bacteria, which break proteins into simpler substances and enzymes. When wheatgrass is taken internally, whether oral or anal, it inhibits the putrefaction of protein by the bacteria commonly form in the digestive tract of meat eaters.

Dr.Chiu-Lan Lai Ph.D. at the University of Texas System cancer Center, Department of Biology, Houston, Texas, has determined through using the Ames Bacterial Mutagenicity Test that chlorophyll is the active factor in wheat sprout extract, which inhibits the metabolic activity of carcinogens.

In a twenty year study of 2,000 telephone company workers it was discovered that beta-carotene, a naturally occurring element in carrots and leafy green vegetables, significantly reduced the risk of lung cancer in cigarette smokers and negated the effects of 30 years of smoking.

The National Cancer Institute reports that 19 of 21 studies indicated diets high in beta-carotene contributes to at least a 40% risk reduction in developing some types of cancer.

Herbal Glossary