Download Foreword - Microlighters

Herbs
For
healing
Contents
Foreword ........................................................................................................................ 3
Alfalfa ............................................................................................................................ 4
Basil ............................................................................................................................... 5
Boswelia ......................................................................................................................... 5
Cayenne.......................................................................................................................... 6
Chamomile ..................................................................................................................... 6
Cinnamon ....................................................................................................................... 7
Cloves ............................................................................................................................ 7
Cumin............................................................................................................................. 7
Dandelion ....................................................................................................................... 8
Elderberry ...................................................................................................................... 9
Fennel ........................................................................................................................... 10
Fenugreek ..................................................................................................................... 11
Frankincense ................................................................................................................ 11
Garlic............................................................................................................................ 12
Ginger .......................................................................................................................... 12
Ginko............................................................................................................................ 13
Ginseng ........................................................................................................................ 14
Lemongrass .................................................................................................................. 15
Myrrh ........................................................................................................................... 15
Nanakha ....................................................................................................................... 16
Nutmeg......................................................................................................................... 16
Olive leaf ...................................................................................................................... 16
Parsley .......................................................................................................................... 17
Peppermint ................................................................................................................... 18
Red pepper ................................................................................................................... 18
Rosemary ..................................................................................................................... 19
Sage .............................................................................................................................. 20
Star anise ...................................................................................................................... 21
Thyme .......................................................................................................................... 21
Turmeric ....................................................................................................................... 21
Vervain ......................................................................................................................... 22
Foreword
To intensify the healing potency of herbs and spices, you should have them mixed. Because each one
of them has its peculiar healing characteristic, when combined they become more powerful, delivering
more holistic benefits. For example, you can add ginger, cinnamon, clove, or cardamom to mint, lemon
grass, verbena, chamomile, rosemary, and sage infusions and hot or cold teas. They enhance the taste
of the drinks as well as each others’ effectiveness. The flavors of stews, meat and vegetable dishes, and
salads are enhanced by ginger, turmeric, hot chilies, cumin, parsley, dry or green coriander, thyme,
rosemary, oregano, dill, basil, or others such as in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Bread taste good
when made with cumin, anise, or fennels seeds; desserts and cakes do well with ginger, cardamom,
cinnamon, vanilla, and more. Herbs and spices add aromatic savor to your recipes while your health
gets all the benefits without suffering the high costs of prescription medication.
These are not the only useful herbs to have handy in your first-aid cabinet. There are of course many
more, which we know and others that we have never heard of. Next week, I shall continue with other
medicinal herbs that you can make use of without the side-effects of medical drugs.
Symptom
Alfalfa
Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa) is a potent alkalizing and
detoxifying green plant. It acts against acidic conditions,
yeast infections, and inflammation. Its powerful
phytocompounds produce therapeutic effects by lowering
cholesterol levels; balancing hormones; regulating blood
sugar; enhancing pituitary; relieving digestive disorders;
alleviating arthritis pain; and improving skin conditions. The
green leaves, flowers, petals, and sprouted seeds are used
for their curative benefits.
Alfalfa provides healing phytochemicals like alpha-carotene,
beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol, chlorophyll, coumarin,
crypoxanthin, daidzein, fumaric acid, genistein, limonene,
lutein, saponin, stigmasterol, and zeaxanthin. These
antioxidants produce detoxifying properties, having antiinflammatory and antifungal effects on the body. Lutein in the
green protects the eyes from macular degeneration, a
blinding disease.
Alfalfa’s exceptional abundance and combination of vitamins
A, Bs, C, D, E, and K, protein, and minerals calcium, copper,
folate, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, and zinc make it an ace of a supplement for
deficiencies such as anemia, bones, joints, and problematic
skin. The chopped young green leaves are used directly on
ulcerated open wounds and bed sores along with the
consumption of fresh vegetable and fruit juices, resulting in
successful healing. In its fresh and raw forms, the plant
provides maximum healing nutrients. The sprouted seeds,
which produce a very effective and energizing cure, should
be thoroughly washed from clinging mold and bacteria.
Alfalfa also comes in supplement form.
Due to its high nutritional value, modern herbalists branded
the plant as “The Father of All Foods”.
The miracle of “live” aromatic plants is that their nutrients
work synergistically and their therapeutic powers become
even more effective when they are blended. These greens
are very rich in digestive enzymes and amino acids, which
also increase intestinal microflora, “healthy” bacteria,
protecting from food poisoning and infectious digestive
pathogens.
Their practical aspect is that the dried herbs, seeds, roots,
and gums neither spoil nor have an expiry date. In fact, some
act as preservatives. The other advantage is that they are
easily available and can be stored in your kitchen, having
medicinal and culinary uses with minimum side-effects on
your health.
Use
Basil
Basil leaves have a purifying effect on the body with its
antibacterial characteristic. It builds the immune system to
fight colds and swine flu. Ayuverdic medicine recommends
tulsi (basil) to protect against the swine flu virus, reducing
symptoms and speeding recovery period. Blend around
twenty fresh green basil leaves with some water and drink on
an empty stomach to benefit from its antioxidant effects.
Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, the
leaf relieves headaches, colds, indigestion, and arthritis pain.
Research evidence indicates that basil has benefits on
cholesterol, diabetes, and ulcers. It can be added to tea
blends or made into pesto sauce the Italian way. However,
basil should be avoided during pregnancy or conception
periods.
Boswelia
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) is a gum, having active
phytochemicals like borneol, boswellic acids, carvone,
caryophyllene, farnesol, geraniol, and limonene. They have
anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antifungal, and anti-bacterial
properties. The gum lowers cholesterol serum, plus it
restores blood vessel damage caused by inflammation. It
relieves gout, arthritis, and fibromyalgia pain, plus it is an
effective immune-booster.
The bitterness in the gum has healing properties. It can be
chewed, sucked, soaked, or burned on charcoal according to
requirement. Traditionally, the soaked gum relieves dry
cough and cold by expectorating mucus. The milky liquid is
soothing for heartburn when taken on empty stomach. Due to
its potent detoxifying agents, the drink cleanses the liver and
kidneys; treats urinary tract infections; and supports urinary
tract health (supplements come for the latter reason, too). It
is said to sharpen cognitive abilities and memory. The resin
is taken diluted in water on empty stomach twice or three
times daily, depending on the severity of the condition.
Soaking the nail treats fungal infections and spreading the
liquid on affected skin soothes eczema. Chewing it lowers
blood sugar and hypertension. The gum is sucked or chewed
during pregnancy to relieve nausea, stomach complaints,
and indigestion; soothe the throat; eliminate bad breath; and
clean the mouth.
Ayurvedic medicine also appreciates boswellia. Taken along
with turmeric and basil leaf, it relieves pain and inflammation
in arthritis sufferers. It is used to treat obesity, acne, and
eczema. The gum’s anti-inflammatory compound, boswellic
acid, alleviates digestive disorders, acid reflux, diarrhea,
parasites, acidic conditions, yeast infections, and asthma.
Cayenne
Cayenne powder acts as a catalyst when mixed with other
herbs. It enhances their effectiveness through stimulating the
circulation, thus speeding the digestion, delivery, and
absorption of the medicinal plant in the body. In ancient
cultures, peppers were used to treat heartburn and lower
fever. The piquancy of capsaicin is sometimes more than
one can handle; a sip of milk or a spoon of yogurt soothes
the burning sensation in the mouth.
Cayenne’s nutritional analysis is very interesting. The
condiment, or vegetable, contains a variety of nutrients. It is
rich in vitamins A and C, essential minerals like calcium, zinc,
selenium, and magnesium, and both insoluble fiber for the
digestion, and soluble fiber for heart hygiene. It also offers an
important compound for the heart and cardiovascular health,
nitro-glycerin, which acts as a blood vessel dilator,
preventing fatal cardiac attacks.
The Middle Eastern and Indian kitchens pride in the endless
varieties of herbs and spices they contain. Each kind offers
flavoring culinary uses as well as multiple therapeutic
benefits in so many different ways. They can be added to
salads, soups, sauces, stews, roasts, and bakery; infused in
hot drinks; or blended into medicinal formula. They are also
found in supplement forms in health stores. Because of their
multifaceted aspects and different utilization, they are
important to keep in your pantry for health use.
Chamomi
le
Chamomile flower infusion is known for its calming properties
on irritability, agitation, restless sleeps, and stress. It also
contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal
agents that work on infections of the throat, sinuses, and
respiratory tract; skin inflammation due to eczema; and yeast
infections of the intestines and nails.
Steam inhalation clears and disinfects the sinuses; gargling
soothes sore throats; the warm drink calms the nerves; and
soaking the nail heals yeast infections.
Cinnamo
n
Cinnamon bark is a very popular spice in Indian and Middle
Eastern cuisines. It detoxifies the body from pathogens and
free radicals, thus bolstering the immune mechanism. Its
most known action is on insulin response, preventing sugar
buildup in the bloodstream and even reversing pre-diabetic
conditions. In studies, cinnamon extract, taken before
consuming starch-rich dishes, controlled the surges of blood
sugar by stimulating proteins in pancreatic cells in order to
regulate insulin spikes, which create havoc if left roaming in
the system. In combination with almond and chromium,
cinnamon’s potency is increased, balancing blood sugar and
decreasing risks of diabetes and obesity.
Abundant in antioxidants, cinnamon produces a lowering
effect on “harmful” cholesterol levels and demonstrates an
anticoagulant action on blood clotting. Half a teaspoon of
cinnamon powder with breakfast (yogurt, cereal, or honey)
acts on blood sugar. It is also effective in lowering cholesterol
levels.
A mixture of cinnamon and honey strengthens immunity to
counteract many disorders. It dispels gases; eases
indigestion and upset stomach; fight colds and flu symptoms;
and relieves arthritic pain. Added to herbal infusion, it
increases antioxidants and gives detoxifying benefits.
Cloves
Cloves have the most powerful antioxidant effect known until
now, scoring highest on the ORAC scale (Oxygen Radical
Absorbance Capacity). ORAC measures the detoxification
ability of a particular food on free radicals, toxins, and
infections.
With potent phytochemicals, the immune system is
reinforced. Because of their powerful anti-inflammatory and
cleansing actions, Chinese traditional medicine recommends
the use of cloves for arthritis pains and other disorders.
Traditionally in the Arabian Peninsula, cloves and their oil
were employed to quell toothache and disinfect the oral
cavity and throat. They can alleviate nausea as well.
Cumin
Cumin seeds have multiple curative properties. The seed
relieves gastric problems such as pain and bloating, but its
most prominent action is on cancer cells. Its active
ingredient is called curcumin, also found in turmeric, curry
powder, and mustard seeds. The compound appears to
suppress the growth of cancerous tumors through the
inhibition of the enzymes, which encourage the spreading of
cancer cells.
A diet rich in curcumin like the Indian seems to lower the risk
of Alzheimer’s and mental decline, disorders seen less in
Indians than in Americans. It reduces inflammation and
boosts immune cells that counteract the protein, which
causes brain plaque in Alzheimer’s patients. Indian and
Arabian cuisines include cumin in rice and vegetables dishes
and stews. A tea made with cumin, anise, fennel, and
caraway seeds dispels gastric gas and pain.
Dandelio
n
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), is a powerful blood and
liver cleanser. It energizes liver functions, thus digestive bile
production is increased. As a result, cholesterol is
decreased. It is helpful in the treatment of jaundice, hepatitis,
and liver cirrhosis, but it is not recommended for gallstones.
Its diuretic property assists in eliminating water retention and
uric acid, but it should not to be used along with diuretic
medication. The green performs stimulating actions on the
kidneys, spleen, pancreas and digestive tract. It may also
have a detoxifying effect on rheumatism and breast tumors
and cancer.
Dandelion’s cleansing properties come from the following
powerful phytochemicals: Beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol,
caffeic acid, cryptoxanthin, lutein, mannitol, p-courmaric acid,
saponin, and stigmasterol. Each one has different actions.
Some act on infections; others on inflammation and others
on cancer. Mannitol produced by dandelion leaves and roots
assists in regulating hypertension. The chopped roots should
be simmered for one minute and chopped leaves should be
left to steep in the liquid for 40 minutes. The dose is two cups
per day.
Dandelion’s diversified minerals like calcium, iron,
magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc
nourish the blood, prevent anaemia and bolster the immune
system. The green also offers essential fatty acids valuable
to health. According to a medical journal, the antioxidants
and vitamins A and B2 in dandelion flower infusion help night
blindness.
Due to dandelion’s high insulin content, the supplement can
exercise a balancing effect on blood sugar, regulating sugar
and insulin levels in diabetics.
For liver cleansing and healing, the leaves, stems and roots
should be boiled and reduced considerably. Three
tablespoons of the concentrate should be taken six times a
day. Dandelion supplement produces similar benefits. The
milky sap in the stem can be rubbed on warts three times a
day; it helps eliminate them. It seems to work on liver spots
on the hands as well.
The young green leaves make a healthy filling salad. In
Lebanese cuisine, they are wilted in olive oil with chopped
onions and garlic to make a delicious and healthy vegetable
dish. Alternatively, they can be boiled or steamed and
dressed with lemon and virgin olive oil.
Elderberr
y
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a healing plant. All its parts,
flower, berry, inner bark, leaves, and roots are used for their
medicinal properties. Elderberry’s effectiveness derives from
the many phytochemicals contained in the plant. They are
alpha-amyrin, astragalin, beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol,
betulin, caffeic acid, campesterol, chlorogenic acid,
cycloartenol, ferulic acid, isoquercitrin, kaempferol, lupeol,
malic acid, myristic acid, pectin, quercetin, rutin, shikimic
acid, stigmasterol, and ursolic acid.
All of these antioxidants act together to detoxify and
neutralize free radicals and inflammation and clear skin
irritations. On the cellular level, they strengthen cell walls to
make them more resistant to the puncturing of invading
viruses. By bolstering the immune system, they soothe sore
throats and coughs and decongest the respiratory tract,
making the plant effective against cold and influenza
symptoms. They decrease high temperatures by increasing
perspiration. The herb comes in supplement form as well. Its
effectiveness becomes more intense to fight the flu when
combined with Echinacea, vitamin C, and rhodiola root (all
are powerful immune-boosters). This combination mitigates
flu symptoms and speeds the recovery period, especially
when taken at the onset of the virus or a sore throat.
Elderberry juice with cinnamon, clove, and honey treats flu
side effects and protects against the virus.
All of these antioxidants act together to detoxify and
neutralize free radicals and inflammation and clear skin
irritations. On the cellular level, they strengthen cell walls to
make them more resistant to the puncturing of invading
viruses. By bolstering the immune system, they soothe sore
throats and coughs and decongest the respiratory tract,
making the plant effective against cold and influenza
symptoms. They decrease high temperatures by increasing
perspiration. The herb comes in supplement form as well. Its
effectiveness becomes more intense to fight the flu when
combined with Echinacea, vitamin C, and rhodiola root (all
are powerful immune-boosters). This combination mitigates
flu symptoms and speeds the recovery period, especially
when taken at the onset of the virus or a sore throat.
Elderberry juice with cinnamon, clove, and honey treats flu
side effects and protects against the virus.
Elderberry also provides immune-lifting and nourishing
nutrients such as essential fatty acids and calcium as well as
vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, and C.
The elderberry plant, the stem in particular, is not
recommended for mothers-to-be due to their toxic content of
cyanide, a toxic chemical.
The practical side of herbs and spices is that some of them
are served in most restaurants, cafes, and eateries along
with a wide assortment of exotic and Oriental teas, and their
blends. There is a comeback for aromatic plants and dry fruit
hot and cold drinks to replace nutrient-empty sweetened
canned fruit juices and health damaging caffeine and sugarfree energy sodas flaunted everywhere at low cost. These
pick-me-ups are not only low in price but poor in nutritional
value and harmful to health, energy, bone, and teeth.
Fennel
The fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare), is of the parsley
family, beneficial in all its forms: seeds or fruit, feathery
greens, roots and stems. Their quantity and variety of
phytochemicals are impressive. They consist of alphapinene, benzoic acid, beta-carotene, beta-phellandrene,
beta-sitosterol, caffeic acid, camphor, cinnamic acid, cynarin,
ferulic acid, fumaric acid, isopimpinellin, isoquercetrin,
kaempferol, limonene, linalool, myristicin, 1,8 cineole, pcoumaric acid, pectin, photocatechuic acid, psoralin,
quercetin, rutin, scopoletin, umbelliferone, sinapic acid,
stigmasterol, vanillic acid, vanillin and xanthotoxint. This
bouquet of antioxidants detoxifies the lungs, dispels gas and
relieves abdominal pain and gastric spasms and disorders.
These phytocompounds are powerful and helpful to use after
or along with chemotherapy and radiation for cancer therapy.
Fennel provides other important nutrients like various amino
acids, enzymes, essential fatty acids and choline. It is rich in
the detoxifying minerals calcium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium and selenium and the
health-promoting vitamins B1, B2, B3, C and E, which
enhance the work of the liver, kidneys and spleen.
Fennel seeds are commonly used for medicinal and culinary
purposes. They relieve flatulence and indigestion when
boiled for 10 minutes and left to steep for several minutes. It
is best taken warm to give maximum effects. The same warm
liquid is given to infants to relieve colic and gas. New
mothers are also encouraged to drink it to stimulate their milk
flow and to give to their newborns to soothe colic. A
teaspoon of fennel, anise and cumin seeds can also be
chewed after a heavy meal to ease the digestion.
The fruit (seed) sweetens the breath; allays hunger pangs;
and suppresses the appetite to help weight loss. An old
recipe to alleviate rheumatism and joint pain is rubbing the
area of pain with crushed fennel and black seeds steeped in
warm olive oil. The Chinese treat food poisoning with fennel
seeds.
In the kitchen, the chopped feathery leaves of the plant are
sprinkled on salads, vegetables dishes, soups and stews to
add an anise-like flavor. The seed is much used to season
dishes in the Middle East and India.
In Italy, the braised stalk is popular as a vegetable dish. The
ancient Romans recommended it for ‘dimness of vision.’
Unless you are familiar with aromatic seeds, the fennel fruit
can easily be confused with the sweeter anise seed
Fenugree
k
Fenugreek is a round seed, which has strengthening and
cleansing effects on energy and blood. The seed’s potency
comes from its detoxifying phytochemicals like betacarotene, parthenolide, and santamarin. Its nutrient-rich
content (calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, zinc, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C)
gives a myriad of health benefits, by acting on many
disorders. The seed has laxative and lubricating
characteristics, which influence the intestines; reduce
inflammation, fever, and lung disorders; break up mucus; and
decrease sinus and asthma symptoms. Its diversified nature
also helps lowering blood cholesterol and sugar levels and
stimulating lactation in new mothers.
Fenugreek comes with an abundance of bone-building
minerals and nutrients, making it instrumental in
strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Traditionally, the seed is recommended to break up phlegm
and expectorate it to relieve asthma and cough. The drink
made with boiled or soaked seed produces a diuretic effect
and helps digestive tract disorders. Fenugreek is
recommended for diabetics for its balancing effect on blood
sugar. The solution should be taken in small amounts before
meals. Fenugreek is much recommended to give energy and
heal from chronic fatigue.
The ancient Egyptians and Arabs used fenugreek after
childbirth to detoxify the body of the new mother as well as
promote the flow of breast milk. However, it is
contraindicated during pregnancies as it stimulates uterine
contractions, thus provoking the onset of abortion or preterm
delivery. Unfortunately, many people distance themselves
from the use of fenugreek due its undesirable side-effect; it
releases a disagreeable body odor, the result of its
detoxifying function.
Frankince
nse
Frankincense is burned to refresh the odor of interiors and
kill airborne germs. The gum is also commonly used for its
many medicinal properties in this part of the world, making it
a valuable healing remedy. I, for one, have experienced its
effectiveness on different aspects of health; I always include
it in my first aid kits for its immune-lifting potency.
Garlic
Garlic’s sulfur compounds are very powerful. They have
antioxidant effects that bolster the immune responses
against bacteria, yeast, and disease. Garlic has similar active
compounds to broccoli, which act on breast cancer cells.
Chemicals in the pungent bulb fight the oxidation of
cholesterol in blood vessels. Researchers have
demonstrated the benefits of garlic on heart and
cardiovascular health.
Aged-garlic supplements lowered cholesterol levels and high
blood pressure in un-medicated sufferers. An Australian
study found that patients who took four capsules of garlic
extract capsules managed their blood pressure better than
those who took placebo. Garlic has anticoagulant agents
that prevent platelet aggregation, reducing risk of blood clots
and stroke.
Garlic’s potent properties treat acidic and yeast conditions.
The condiment also has antioxidant characteristics that
counteract free radical damage.
An old remedy of garlic-pickled olive oil relieves ear aches
and infections by instilling a couple of warm drops in affected
ears.
Ginger
Ginger is a digestive root that comes with a pungent flavor. It
has many healing characteristics. It helps decongest the
sinuses. The chopped root can be added to infusions such
as chamomile or rosemary leaves three times daily to relieve
sinus congestion.
Ginger relieves nausea and indigestion. The juice of one lime
and a spoon of ginger juice should be added to a glass of
sparkling water to ease both discomforts. The root not only
has digestive and nausea-soothing qualities, but also
detoxifies the intestines, protecting against food poisoning.
Japanese delicacies like sushi and sashimi are always
served with pickled ginger and wasabi (like horse-radish) to
prevent food poisoning from raw fish.
Ginger also has significant effects in the treatment and
prevention of cardiovascular disease (cholesterol) and
cancer due to its potent anti-inflammatory and detoxifying
properties. According to a study at the University of
Michigan, the root has compounds that trigger “cancer cells
to self-destruct (a process known as ‘apoptosis’).”
A very recent research has found that turmeric mixed with
black pepper produced an inhibiting effect on the propagation
of breast cancer cells as well as the growth of colon and lung
tumors in animals. In combination with gingerroot, it delivered
similar actions.
Ginko
Ginko (Ginko biloba), has strong action on brain functions.
These benefits come from potent phytocompounds like
amentoflavone, apigenin, beta-carotene, bilobalide,
ginkgetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, luteolin, myristic acid, pcoumaric acid, procyanidin, quercetin, shikimic acid,
stigmasterol, tannin, and thymol. By acting against blood
clotting, ginko energizes the blood circulation.
Its powerful and detoxifying antioxidants increase blood flow
and oxygen to the brain and its tissue. With this effect, the
leaf may delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, senility,
memory loss, and mental decline and relieve depression and
headaches as suggested in studies. An improved circulation
can contribute to minimizing muscle spasms and leg cramps.
Ginko’s blood thinning effect and increase in blood flow can
benefit the heart, vascular system, kidneys, skin (eczema)
and relieve asthma, tinnitus (ringing ears), and sexual
dysfunctions. The Chinese acclaim the herb for initiating
sexual rejuvenation and improving cognitive performance.
Ginko supplement works almost immediately in the
bloodstream. However keeping its blood-thinning action in
mind, the herb should not be taken along with anticoagulant
drugs like aspirin, painkiller medication, and warfarin.
Ginko leaf boasts bone-building minerals such as calcium,
iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and
zinc, plus blood-enriching nutrients like amino acids and
vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, and C. All these work
synergistically, contributing to the herb’s potent action on the
body and disease.
Ginsen
g
Ginseng (Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius), is a root
known for its energizing and healing properties. The first kind
comes from China and Korea; that is the one most people
know. The other is grown on American soil. The different
species give different effects and complement each other.
The Siberian ginseng is not of the same family, but it has
similar characteristics.
Ginseng potency on the body comes from phytochemicals
such as beta sitosterol, campesterol, caryophyllene,
cinnamic acid, escin, ferrulic acid, fumaric acid,
ginsenosides, kaempferol, oleanolic acid, panaxic acid,
saponin, stigmasterol and vanillic acid. The nutrients in the
root are quite impressive, too. They consist of calcium,
choline, fiber, folate, iron, magnesium and manganese,
phosphorus, potassium, silicon, and zinc.
Both ginseng nutrients and phytocompounds work in a
synergy to bolster the hormonal system and adrenal and
reproductive glands, increasing fertility and sexual activity
while reducing sexual dysfunctions. By enhancing the
immune system, they give energy, increase stamina and
endurance, lower fatigue and stress, and stimulate the
appetite, making them ideal for athletes. They have
balancing effects on blood sugar and insulin levels.
With the use of ginseng, the functions of the lungs are
improved and bronchitis conditions are relieved. The root
promotes good blood circulation; controls diabetes; and
helps liver dysfunction due to alcohol abuse and medical
drug overuse. Its immune-lifting properties protect against
exposure to radiation in astronauts and others. The healing
part is the root, which should be steeped in hot water for 20
minutes like most remedial herbal infusions. Ginseng comes
in supplement for those who do not have access to the root.
Due to its sugar lowering effect, ginseng should be avoided
in the presence of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). The
other medical conditions, which the root is not recommended
for, are hypertension, heart disorders, asthma, and insomnia.
Pregnant and nursing mothers, too, should keep away from
the root.
Lemon
grass
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates), contains an array of
phytochemicals such as alpha-pinene, beta sitosterol,
caryophyllene, citral, farnesol, geraniol, limonene, luteolin,
myrcene, quercetin, rutin, saponin, and triacontanol. A recent
research showed an interesting phenomenon. According to
the test-tube study, citral, the active lemony compound in
lemongrass, acted on cancer cells by making them selfdestruct through ‘apoptosis’ with only a small amount of
lemongrass infusion poured on cells.
What is more interesting is that normal and healthy cells
were left intact and fully functional. Citral is also found in
plants like Verbena officinalis and Melissa officinalis.
Lemongrass offers important immune-lifting nutrients like
calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, and zinc. The grass has digestive,
tonifying, and astringent properties. It acts on fever, flu,
headaches, and intestinal problems. The herb is added to tea
for its flavor and refreshing benefits. To intensify its
detoxifying effects, I mix it with verbena leaf and gingerroot
infusion. Due to its fragrant aroma, it is often found in beauty
products and scents.
Myrrh
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is a resin collected from
bleeding the shrub stems, which are grown in Southern
Arabia and Somalia. It is of the same family as Boswellia,
frankincense, or luban shihri.
The hardened gum, secreted from the stems, acquires a
brownish-red color, looking more like small translucent rough
pebbles. It should be soaked in water for disinfecting
wounds. It also has astringent, stimulating and healing
characteristics among others.
Soaked myrrh (a couple of gum drops) in a small coffee cup
of hot water was given to new mothers to help bodycleansing after childbirth. It was also give for stomach
aches, cough, colds and chest infections. The same solution
can be applied to wounds and skin infections to speed
healing, reduce scarring and remove warts. The liquid is
known to lower high blood sugar and hypertension levels.
Scientific research shows that myrrh provides immuneboosting and detoxifying phytochemicals such as acetic
acids, betasterols, campesterol, cinnamaldehyde,
cuminaldehyde, depentene, eugenol, limonene and m-cresol.
The gum acts as an antiseptic, disinfectant, expectorant and
deodorant. It energizes the immune defences and stimulates
gastric acids for better nutrient absorption. It combats oral
bacteria, gum disease, bad breath, sore throat, colds, flu,
sinusitis, cough, asthma, bronchitis, herpes simplex, skin
disorders and ulcers by gargling and just drinking a small
amount of the solution or swallowing a couple of gum drops
with water. For wounds, cuts, sores and boils, a concentrated
liquid should be applied directly on the skin a couple of times
a day. Due to its cleansing and antibacterial properties,
myrrh is found as an ingredient in certain immune-boosting
formulas. Its aromatic properties make it appear in scents.
Nanakh
a
Nanakha is an aromatic seed that resembles anise, but of a
more intense potency and pungency, which work on
digestive disorders. Traditionally, it was used in the Hijaz
region of Arabia and in India for relieving abdominal pains
and indigestion, dispelling gases, and treating intestinal
infections. The stinging flavor of the seeds makes the person
reluctant to chew and swallow them, but with time it becomes
palatable.
An acceptable way to have them is boiling them a little and
steeping them for twenty minutes. The clear liquid is very
aromatic and soothing to pain and bloating and detoxifies
infections. I find it very soothing to digestive pain and
disorders.
Nutmeg
Olive
leaf
Nutmeg is another spice, or nut; it reduces blood pressure.
How? It is one of those spices that build heat in the blood,
making blood vessels dilate, thus it increases blood flow. It
is usually added to bakery goods, vegetables, and meatloaf
to enhance their flavors. It is also used as a sedative for its
calming effect.
Olive leaf (Olea europaea), is the green leaf of the “blessed
tree” as mentioned in the Holy Quran. We all know the many
benefits of olive oil, the heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty
acids, but very few people outside the Middle East have
heard of the health benefits of the leaf of the olive tree.
This deep olive-green leaf reveals an abundance of
phytochemicals such as apigenin, beta-sitosterol glucoside,
cinchonidine, esculetin, kaempferol, mannitol, maslinic and
oleanic acids, oleuropein, quercetin, rutin, and tannins.
These powerful agents are at the spearhead of detoxifying
antioxidants to neutralize and destroy free radicals, bacteria,
viruses, yeasts, and parasites. They also boast strong
immune effects.
In studies, the extract of olive leaf showed potency by
decreasing high blood pressure plus relieving colds,
influenza, sinusitis, pneumonia, most infectious diseases,
and gastrointestinal disorders, while mitigating chronic
fatigue and arthritis pains and psoriasis. The extract
supplements taken in combination with fresh ginger give
more effectiveness in lowering high blood pressure. Other
nutrients like calcium also found in the green help build
bones and nourish the body.
The other medicinal effect of the olive leaf is lowering blood
sugar levels in insulin-dependent sufferers to the point of
reducing insulin doses. A traditional recipe for diabetes is
drinking half a cup of the boiled leaves before every meal.
The drink is made with a big handful of the washed leaves by
boiling them in a liter of water for three minutes. The solution
should be left to steep for another 20 minutes; poured in a
glass bottle (only); and stored in the refrigerator for the day.
The potion appears to stimulate insulin and prevent blood
sugar surges.
Parsley
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a special herb. All its parts:
Fruit, leaves, stems, and roots, have effective medicinal or
culinary uses and sometimes both. Its potent antioxidants
and nutrients are endless and curative. The multiple benefits
comes from phytocompounds such as alpha-pinene,
apigenin, apiole, beta carotene, benzaldehyde, bergapten,
caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, geraniol, glycol acid,
kaempferol, limonene, linalool, lutein, myristic acid,
myristicin, naringenin, p-coumaric acid, psoralen, quercetin,
rosmarinic acid, rutin, and xanthotoxin. Its immune-boosting
calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, and selenium and fortifying vitamins A, B1, B2,
B3, B5, C, and E give it a special status amongst dark leafy
greens.
Traditionally, parsley dispels gastric gas; eliminates
parasites; and normalizes gastric functions. The green
strengthens the memory because of the rosmarinic acid and
others. It produces good effects on the prostate and
stimulates the reproductive system and sexual desire. The
green freshens the breath after garlic and onion
consumption.
Parsley’s diuretic effect relieves water retention, and lowers
high blood pressure with the help of its high magnesium
content. It assists bladder and kidney problems; eases the
flow of painful urination; and expels stones. A big bunch of
the green should be steeped in a liter of boiling water and left
to cool or it can be blended with water as juice. Either way, it
should be taken four times a day with meals to help the
release or break up of kidney stones.
Parsley offers an amino acid called histidine, which has the
ability to suppress the propagation of tumor cells. Its vitamin
A and C components, which have recently been accepted as
cancer-fighters, exceed the amounts found in any other
vitamin-rich foods. Lutein like in other leafy greens is a
powerful antioxidant, which protects from blindness due to
age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Parsley’s bonehealth benefits come from its richness in calcium,
magnesium, and vitamin C.
Parsley is a popular herb used in Middle Eastern and
Mediterranean cuisines. It is chopped and added to salads,
stews, soups, and vegetable dishes before serving to
preserve its goodness, freshness, and aroma. The famous
Lebanese taboule salad is basically made of finely
chopped fresh parsley and mint leaves with diced
tomato, cucumber, and onions. The dressing is simply
made of lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. The salad is a
very healthy filling starter, rich in nutrients and fiber, a
nutrient that assists a weight loss program.
Pepper
mint
Peppermint (Mentha piperita), is a potent green. Its healing
effects come from the many phytocompounds in the plant.
These are composed of acetic acid, alpha-carotene, alphapinene,azulene, beta-carotene, beta-ionone, betaine, caffeic
acid, carvacrol, carvone, chlorogenic acid, coumarin,
eugenol, hesperetin, limonene, linalool, luteolin, menthol,
1,8-cineole, p-coumaric acid, rosmarinic acid, rutin, tannin,
thymol and vanillin.
The aromatic green provides protecting nutrients like pectin,
choline, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, and zinc and the nourishing vitamins
B1, B2, B3, and E.
Due its content of the pungent menthol and others,
peppermint essence and oil are typically used for therapeutic
purposes to relieve digestive disorders like indigestion,
nausea, spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea and poor
appetite. They soothe colic through their mild anaesthetic
effects on the mucous membranes. They help the digestive
process, furthermore, by aiding in the secretion of stomach
acids.
The green’s medicinal and calming effects alleviate
headaches and rheumatism pain. Peppermint essence or oil
should only be ingested in very few drops on a lump of sugar
or with honey for medical conditions only.
On the other hand, peppermint and its oil should not be used
in the presence of acid reflux and allergic reactions; they
aggravate the conditions. Nursing mothers should not take
them either as they interfere with iron uptake. The green
leaves should not be consumed in their pure form, but as a
tea instead.
Traditionally peppermint leaves are infused in boiling water to
relieve digestive disorders. Otherwise, peppermint or
spearmint (its milder green ‘sister’), with its flowering tops are
enjoyed mixed with tea leaves after a copious meal.
Red
pepper
Red peppers and cayenne powder have a pungency that
enhances the flavor of food as well as a potency that is
detoxifying and antimicrobial. Their powerful compound
capsaicin causes the release of endorphins that alleviate
pain and dilate blood vessels, thus lowering arterial pressure
and increasing blood flow to the heart and brain. The
pungent compound has potent anti-inflammatory and anticlotting effects and produces heat that energizes the
circulation of the blood, thus lowering the occurrence of
stroke and blood clotting. Certain healers recommend it to
prevent fatal heart attacks.
Capsaicin, in studies, appeared to suppress the prevalence
of cancer cells by destroying them. Obesity and diabetes
can be helped with the addition of hot peppers to the daily
diet. They stimulate the metabolism, increase energy, and
inhibit the growth of fat cells.
Rosema
ry
Rosemary leaves and their essential oil are recommended to
relieve congested sinuses and cold symptoms and cleanse
the system, either through steam inhalation of rosemary
infusion or taking only two drops of the essential oil mixed
with honey or on sugar lump twice a day.
Recent studies point to the effects of rosemary on
sharpening the memory and improving mental performance
by intensifying the thinking ability. In animal testing, a
chemical (carnosic acid) in the herb was found to
considerably lower risk of stroke as well as protect brain cells
from oxidation, Alzheimer’s disease, and mental decline
caused by aging. Rosemary should also be added to meat
dishes to protect against meat’s oxidizing effect and
carcinogens produced by cooking.
Sage
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a silvery green fuzzy leaf,
containing a wealth of detoxifying, antibacterial, antiviral, and
anti-parasitic phytochemicals such as alpa-amyrin, alphapinene, alpha-terpineol, apigenin, beta-carotene, betasitosterol, betulin, borneol, caffeic acid, campesterol,
camphene, camphor, carnosolic acid, caryophyllene,
catechin, chlorogenic acid, citral, farnesol, ferulic acid, gallic
acid, genkwanin, geraniol, hispidulin, limonene, linalool,
luteolin, maslinic acid, oleanolic acid, 1,8-cineole, p-coumaric
acid, pinene, rosmarinic acid, saponin, stigmasterol, tannins,
terpineol, thymol, ursolic acid, and vanillic acid.
Nutrients in the furry leaves are not less impressive. They
consist of the immune-boosting and protective minerals:
Boron, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, and zinc and health-promoting
vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, and C.
Sage leaves provide an estrogenic effect on the body,
making it a good dietary supplement for menopausal woman
or those who have had hysterectomy (removal of uterus).
They relieve hot flashes and symptoms of menopause.
The herb stimulates the digestive and nervous systems. It
produces laxative effect on the intestines. The tea stimulates
the memory and boosts brain power. The steeped leaves
reduce profuse sweating and salivation. The tea as a drink,
rinse, or gargle relieves tonsillitis and mouth and throat
infections.
When used as a rinse, it gives a shine to hair and stimulates
its growth. The crushed leaves soothe insect bites by rubbing
the green on the sting. Bathing eczema and psoriasis
inflamed skin with sage infusion stops the itching and
reduces inflammation. When mixed with whole-wheat flour or
oats, it gives soothing results.
A Chinese study showed that sage leaves activate cell
regeneration in the liver. When the herb is blended with
tomato and beet juice, it apparently acquires a more effective
potency on the organ by stimulating its repair.
Sage inhibits the formation blood clots due to its
anticoagulant effect, thus lowering risk of vascular and
coronary disease. This quality helps in the treatment of heart
disorders.
However, sage is contraindicated during pregnancies and
breast-feeding. Because of its drying effect on breast milk, it
is taken to stop nursing. Too much consumption can interfere
with the uptake of iron and other minerals. Those who have
seizure disorders should not take the herb either.
Traditionally, sage is used to quell abdominal pain and
menstrual cramps (with cinnamon), colon disorders, and
flatulence. Particularly when blended with peppermint, it
gives relief to severe abdominal spasms. It serves as a
disinfectant for the throat.
Chopped sage is used as a seasoning for the stuffing of
poultry and game birds.
Star anise
Thyme
Turmeric
Star anise, yansoon, is another spice that has a powerful
flavor as well as a destructive potency on viruses and
infections. It became a star during the swine flu virus
scare. It was then that the flower was revealed as the
active ingredient in the patented Tamiflu vaccine. The
active compound extracted from aged star anise is called
shikimic acid. The star relieves swine flu symptoms;
shortens the recovery period; and bolsters the immune
defenses. Star anise (whole or powdered) should be
steeped in hot water for twenty minutes and then taken
warm.
Thyme is another herb that has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and anti-bacterial properties to soothe sore
throats, asthma, and cough. Warm thyme infusions with
honey soothe a spasmodic cough. Certain cough syrups
are made with thyme. The herb can be chopped to spice
up vegetable soups, vegetables stews, salad dressings,
and bread.
Turmeric is another root that has a healing orange-yellow
pigment, rich in detoxifying antioxidants. It is the basic
ingredient in the Indian curry powder. Studies have
shown the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric on
cardiovascular system, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.
In other studies, turmeric’s antioxidant potency also
demonstrated effectiveness by delaying the onset of
Alzheimer’s disease and preventing vascular disorders,
resulting from cholesterol buildup.
The active compound curcumin, also found in mustard
and cumin seeds, suppresses inflammation-causing
enzymes caused by bruises, fractures, and swelling. The
Indians add turmeric powder to milk or yogurt to reduce
inflammation and speed the healing of bone fractures and
bruises.
Vervain
Vervain (Verbena officinalis) is a relatively small green
plant that yields flowers, leaves, shoots and stems. The
leaves offer cancer-fighting properties through their
detoxifying phytocompounds: adenosine, aucubin, betacarotene, caffeic acid, citral, tannin, ursolic acid,
verbenalin and verbenin. The active chemical, which
counteracts cancer cells, is suspected to be citral. It
appeared in test tubes to cause cancer cells to destroy
themselves, committing ‘apoptosis’ (cancer cell suicide).
Citral is also found in lemongrass.
Vervain has other healing properties. The infusion of the
leaves stimulates the nervous system; calms the nerves;
lowers stress levels; induces sleep; and helps treating
mild depression. It enhances liver and gallbladder
functions. The leaf regulates menstruation and increases
the flow of breast milk. It relieves headache and
toothache; decreases fever by inducing perspiration; and
helps reduce cold symptoms.
Bathing wounds with vervain solution disinfects them and
speeds their healing. The drink is made with the leaves
left to infuse in hot boiled water for twenty minutes like
any other herbal tea. Ginger, spearmint, lemongrass, or
rosemary can be added to increase nutritional value and
enrich flavor.
Vervain should be avoided during pregnancies. Because
of the effects of the plant’s compounds on the uterus,
they induce contractions, resulting in abortions or
premature deliveries.