ajowan

April 3, 2018

Analgesic / Pain

Analgesic substances reduce pain in a variety of ways: as a local anesthetic or anti-nociceptive, and also via the nervous system.  The menthol constituent in peppermint has shown topical anti-nociceptive activity, lavender aromatherapy has shown to calm nerves after surgery to help reduce pain, and comfrey has been used for […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-inflammatory

Inflammation is our body’s response to infection and injury. Its purpose is to clear out foreign cells and dead cells from the local area.  Inflammation is characterized by increased redness, heat, pain, and swelling to an area.  Anti-inflammatory herbs reduce inflammation in various ways.  For example, spices like turmeric, ginger, […]
April 3, 2018

Antibacterial

There are many types of bacteria, and not all bacteria are bad.  Some good bacteria in the body help aid in digestion and fight infection.  Pathogenic bacteria can cause disease.  Wikipedia does an excellent job of categorizing and listing the most common types of bacteria:  Pathogenic Bacteria List. Antibacterial herbs […]
April 3, 2018

Anti-fungal

Certain herbs are known for their anti-fungal actions.  Most research studies have been in vitro; more human studies are necessary. Recipes to Help with Fungal Infections Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description […]
April 3, 2018

Antimicrobial

Herbs and essential oils are known for their antimicrobial potential, and have been studied for their abilities to inhibits or kill microbes including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and yeast.  It is important to understand therapeutic margin for each botanical, the amount at which a substance is both safe and effective to […]
April 3, 2018

Antioxidant

Antioxidant herbs, fruits, and vegetables have the potential to reduce oxidation, which can cause free radicals to form.  This can then contribute to aging and disease. Eat Your Colors! Antioxidants protect your cells!  They are found in the richly colorful fruits and vegetables that we eat.  Here are some examples: RED […]
April 4, 2018

Anti-parasite

Also called anthelmintic, anti-parasitic herbs can help the body eliminate or destroy worms and parasites such as tapeworm.  Significant essential oils studied include oregano and thyme, and herbs include wormwood and hyssop.  Caution is necessary when using herbs as anti-parasitics, related to their low therapeutic margin. Recipes to Help with […]
April 5, 2018

Cardiac Health / High Blood Pressure

Eating right is an important part of healthy blood flow.  Herbs for cardiac health can include tonic and hypotensive herbs and oils such as ginkgo, garlic, oats, hawthorn and oregano.  These herbs show potential in reducing blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis is a narrowing of the arteries due to fatty […]
April 6, 2018

Common Cold / Cough & Congestion / Respiratory

The common cold is associated with a nasal congestion, cough, and a sore throat.  There may also be a mild fever.  It can be caused by one of more than 200 different viruses.  It runs its coarse in about one to two weeks. Various herbs can help reduce cough and […]
April 7, 2018

Digestive Aid / Nausea / Constipation

Digestive aids can be gastro-protective, anti-inflammatory, and/or improve elimination.  Key herbs include peppermint, ginger, and fennel, slippery elm, aloe, and licorice. For indigestion, sniff peppermint oil, chew fennel seeds, or drink ginger tea. For constipation, eat more fiber, stay hydrated, and exercise. For diarrhea, keep hydrated and try probiotics. For […]
April 7, 2018

Immunity

Some herbs can act as an immune stimulant, boosting immunity to help reduce cold, flu, and other afflictions. Some Immunity Boosting Recipes to Try Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each […]
April 7, 2018

Repellent

Many essential oils and herbs have shown repellent action against a variety of bugs and pests. Repellent Herb and Essential Oil Recipes Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study.  This […]