April 3, 2018

Acne

Acne results from blocked skin follicles, encouraging bacteria, and resulting in infection and pimples.  During puberty, hormonal changes result in increased sebum production that can cause the blocked pores.  Here are a few basic suggestions: Keep the face clean, but don’t over-wash. Don’t touch the face with unclean hands and spread […]
April 4, 2018

Antiviral

Antiviral herbs and essential oils may help reduce viral infections.  Echinacea has proven noteworthy in helping with prevention of common cold viruses.  For most botanicals, more research is needed to determine safe and effective amounts. Antiviral – Recipes Blog Articles Can essential oils offer antiviral activities against the flu?  Read […]
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

Hypoglycemic / Antidiabetic

Hypoglycemic herbs have the potential to lower blood sugar levels and improve other symptoms associated with diabetes.  Discuss with your Doctor how the use of herbs to lower blood sugar levels can affect certain medical conditions and medications. Hypoglycemic Herb Recipes Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent […]
April 9, 2018

Mouth Cold Sores

Mouth cold sores are usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1), but could have other causes.  Multiple studies have demonstrated lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) contains compounds to help fight the virus. Recipes to Help with Mouth Cold Sores Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a […]
April 9, 2018

Skin and Wound Health

Many herbs can help with various skin ailments from dry skin, itchy areas, burns, wrinkles, growths, and cuts. Skin conditions can include eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and more.  For acute situations, consult a Doctor. Wounds When a cut occurs, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth for 15 minutes and elevate […]
April 19, 2018

Aloin / Barbaloin

Aloin is an exudate compound found in aloe. Links to Plants Containing Aloin RESEARCH The listings of research below represents a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study.  This compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are […]
April 19, 2018

Anthraquinones (including emodin)

These are phenolic compounds.  Plants containing anthraquinones include senna, cascara, alder buckthorn, rhubarb, yellow dock, and aloe.  Excessive internal use may interfere with certain drugs, and/or cause potassium depletion and other side effects.  See Aloe Herb Monograph. Links to Plants Containing Anthraquinones   RESEARCH The listings of research below represents […]
April 24, 2018

Phytosterols

Phytosterols include sterols and stanols as found in plants.  The FDA, Health Canada, and the EFSA  have approved that they lower blood cholesterol levels. Links to Plants Containing Phytosterols   RESEARCH The listings of research below represents a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview […]
April 24, 2018

Tannins

Tannins are an astringent polyphenolic component found in a variety of plants such as aloe, geranium, rhubarb, chinaberry, St John’s wort, Echinacea, and astragalus. Links to Plants Containing Tannins   RESEARCH The listings of research below represents a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief […]
May 2, 2018

Aloe (Aloe barbadensis) Research

Latin Name: Aloe barbadensis Family: Lillaceae The leaves of an aloe plant contain a mucilaginous gel used topically to soothe burns and wounds, and can be taken internally to alleviate various digestive complaints such as constipation and irritable bowels.  Aloe is a laxative related to its aloin constituent.  It may also […]
May 28, 2018

Acne Face Wash

Can this acne face wash recipe really help get rid of these blasted face bumps? Acne is caused by a bacteria that festers in blocked skin follicles and results in ugly embarrassing blemishes.  This recipe contains mild and effective ingredients to help clear the bacteria out of the pores and […]