Tag Archives: Immune System

5 Endangered North American Plants With Significant Medicinal Benefits

Picture of Wild Yam plant

Plants have been used medicinally for thousands of years in practically all human cultures, from the traditional medicine of ancient China to Ayurvedic remedies in India to Native American healing salves. Plant-based medicine has been a staple of healing in the ancient world, but there is a huge place for it even today. Still flourishing in a marketplace flooded by chemicals and pharmaceuticals, medicinal plants have irreplaceable roots in all human medicine. In fact, 80% of the….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Lion’s Mane

Picture of Lions Mane Mushroom

Lions Mane Mushroom Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefits Lion’s mane mushroom is a medicinal mushroom. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a brain tonic and as a treatment for many health conditions. This mushroom is known to boost the strength of the immune system, helping your body to fight off sickness and stay healthy. It is also good for digestive and colon health, as it contains beta glucan polysaccharides, polypeptides and fatty acids. Lion’s….. Read more

Posted in Mushrooms | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Chamomile

Picture of Chamomile Plant

Chamomile Benefits As a medicinal plant, chamomile has been in constant use since the times of ancient Egypt. German chamomile is the most common and has been studied more extensively than the Roman or English variety. The health benefits listed on this page refer to German Chamomile. Chamomile was often used as a remedy for nausea, diarrhea, gas, anxiety, fevers, asthma, colic and a host of other conditions. Most often, it was taken as a hot tea. For skin conditions….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Milk Thistle

Picture Of Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle Benefits Milk thistle has been in use by herbalists for over 2,000 years in Europe. It’s primary function is protecting the liver and treating liver and gallbladder problems. This herb is also used to lower cholesterol, treat diabetes and reduce cancer cells in the breast, cervix and prostate. Many Herbalists recommend milk thistle for many types of cancer as it is a great blood detoxifier. Milk thistle contains about 20% protein by weight and includes many….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Kelp Benefits For Your Health

Picture of kelp

Kelp is an edible marine algae which grows along various shore-lines. The best kelp varieties grow along the Norwegian and Nova Scotia coastline. The variety which grows on the Norwegian coastline is referred to as the Ascophyllum nodosum. These sea-weeds are a popular meal among various cultures including the Japanese and have numorious health benefits. Kelp contains over 12 vitamins, 20 major amino acids and 60 key chelated trace mineral. Kelp supplements which are available in….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Dong Quai

Picture of Dong Quai Plant

Dong Quai Benefits In China, Dong Quai (sometimes called female ginseng) is one of the most widely taken herbs in existence. It has been used in their Traditional Chinese medicine system for over 2,000 years. It is most often used to promote better blood circulation. Even though it is often used by men, this herb is known as the ultimate herb for women. Many women in China consume a formula containing this herb on a daily basis. Dong Quai is a herb that is used most commonly….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Deer Antler Velvet – The Anti-Aging Miracle

Picture of a deer antler

Using deer antler velvet in the use of medicine is really something that started with the Chinese in ancient times. Where the Chinese used deer antler velvet to its advantage is the fact that they used it to promote wellness to their people as a whole even before they became sick. The standard American way of medicine involves treating someone after they have already become ill. See the difference? With that said, the Western medical world has begun to see the benefits of deer….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Green Tea Benefits

Picture of Green Tea

The people of China have known about and consumed green tea as a medicine for over four thousand years. Legend has it that the Chinese emperor Shen Nung was drinking a cup of hot water when some tea leaves fell into his cup by accident. He drank it and found it tasted good. He continued to make the tea and discovered it’s many healing properties. Shen Nung’s discovery spread all throughout China and soon became the most popular drink in the country. Modern science has….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Fo-Ti

Fo-Ti Plant

Fo-Ti Benefits Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu is considered a powerful longevity herb in the system of Chinese Medicine. It has been used for thousands of years to promote long life, nourish blood, strengthen bones, tendons and muscles as well as many other purposes. Fo-Ti is widely used to strengthen the lower back and knees. This is especially helpful to older people. It is probably best known for it’s ability to turn grey hair dark again. Fo-Ti is believed to also help reverse hair….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Amla

Picture of Amla Tree and Fruit

Amla Benefits Amla, better known as Indian Gooseberry, is widely used in the Ayurvedic medicine system of India. Amla is extremely rich in vitamin C, having thirty percent more than oranges. It’s packed with many vitamins, minerals, tannins and other helpful nutrients. This herb is a very powerful antioxidant, preventing damage from free radicals that cause cell oxidation. Antioxidants are important for anti-aging and preventing diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart….. Read more

Posted in Ayurvedic Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Burdock

Picture of Burdock Plant

Burdock Benefits The Burdock plant is related to the Dandelion and Echinacea family. The seeds, greens and roots were used by the ancient Greeks as a medicine to heal many common ailments. The root is mainly used in today’s Burdock health supplements. This herb is mainly used for digestive and liver problems but also has some other health benefits, such as a skin cleanser to treat acne, treatment of urinary tract infections, to boost energy and stamina, treat ulcers, cleanse the….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Shilajit

Picture of Shilajit

Shilajit Benefits Shilajit is considered one of the most important substances in the Indian system of Ayurvedic medicine. It’s name means “nectar of God”. It has been used for thousands of years for longevity and a host of other ailments. Shilajit is a thick, blackish-brown mineral pitch resin that oozes out of cracks in the Himalayan mountains as the summer heat raises the temperature of the rock. Shilajit is composed of centuries old, decomposed plants which are a potent….. Read more

Posted in Ayurvedic Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Lycium Fruit

Picture of Lycium Plant

Lycium Fruit Benefits Lycium Fruit, more commonly known as Goji berries or Wolfberry grows mainly in northwestern China and Tibet. These places have some of the purest, nutrient rich soil on earth. The Lycium plant has vines that grow up to fifteen feet long, with small red berries. Their taste is sweet and sour. The berries can be used for cooking, made into tea or just eaten right off the plant. Lycium fruit has been eaten in China for over five thousand….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Suma Root

Picture of Suma Plant

Suma Root Benefits Suma root has been used for hundreds of years for it’s medicinal properties. It is considered an adaptogen, a substance that strengthens and protects the body and mind against stress. The natives of South America would consume it daily to increase their physical strength, energy and stamina. It promotes balance of the hormones and strengthens the adrenal glands. It is a powerful immune system booster. Many people use suma to treat illnesses like skin….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Siberian Ginseng Benefits

Picture of Siberian Ginseng Plant

Ginseng comes in three main varieties. American ginseng, Siberian ginseng and Korean ginseng. While all are considered adaptogens and very beneficial to health, they each have their own unique properties. Today, let’s talk about Siberian ginseng. Though called ginseng, it technically is not a true ginseng. It does not belong to the same genus of plants that Korean and American ginseng do. Never the less, it has many of the same properties of ginseng. Siberian ginseng’s real….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Holy Basil Tea Health Benefits

Picture of Holy Basil Tea

Holy Basil is a plant that grows mostly in warm areas of Asia. It has been used for many hundreds of years as food seasoning, tea and medicinal herb. This herb has a very rich aroma and makes a wonderful caffeine-free herbal tea. It not only tastes great, it also has some impressive medicinal properties. It has historically been taken to calm the mind, as it has a relaxing effect when taken. It is a great remedy for stress and anxiety. The Ayurvedic medicine system used in….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

5 Medicinal Mushrooms That Can Improve Your Health

Picture of Maitake Mushroom

Most of us have probably cooked with and eaten mushrooms. But did you know that some of them have very potent healing properties too? We may have tried the more common mushrooms like button and portabella, but there are some less well known mushrooms that are even better for us healthwise. Medicinal mushrooms, though sometimes flavorful, are not used for cooking like common mushrooms. They are most often made into tea or dried and ground into a powder and put into….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Gynostemma

Picture of Gynostemma Plant

Gynostemma Benefits Gynostema or “Jiaogulan” is an adaptogenic herb. An adatpogen is a substance that brings you whole body back into balance. It also increases strength and stamina and protects the body and mind against stress, either mental or physical. It is especially helpful for the immune, digestive, nervous, reproductive and cardiovascular systems. It is a very potent health tonic. Saponins are what gives this powerful herb it’s ability as an adaptogen. It has the….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Holy Basil

Picture of Holy Basil Plant

Holy Basil Benefits Holy Basil is great for reducing depression, stress and anxiety. It promotes health and wellbeing and protects the mind and body in a very positive way. It is an adaptogen, meaning it brings balance to the entire body and protects it from stresses of all kinds. It increases strength, stamina and endurance and allows the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently while it promotes proper protein synthesis in the body. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is a very important….. Read more

Posted in Ayurvedic Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Chamomile Health Benefits

Picture of Chamomile Flowers

The herb Chamomile has been in constant use for thousands of years. It has been used to treat a plethora of ailments and health troubles, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, gas, insomnia and even anxiety. Most of the time Chamomile is taken as a hot tea, but can also be used externally for skin problems, like lesions and hemorrhoids. The flowering tops are the part of the Chamomile plant that is used for it’s medicinal properties. These are what are used to make the healthy….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Schizandra

Picture of Schisandra Vine

Schizandra Benefits Schizandra (sometimes spelled Schisandra) berries are a powerful adaptogen. This means that they will help you adapt to your environment allowing you to better handle stress, whether mental or physical. An adaptogen is used as an overall wellness tonic. It is beneficial to the whole body. Like any adaptogen, Schizandra exerts a normalizing effect on the entire body. It will take you from any extreme back to a balanced state. In China, it is said to be the….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Bee Pollen

Picture of a honey bee collecting pollen

Bee Pollen Benefits Bee pollen consists of 20% protein, 25% carbohydrates, 14% fiber, 4.5% fats and 3% minerals and trace vitamins. It has a very high nutritional value due to it’s vitamin and mineral profile. It is easily digested and highly absorbable. It is said to be the most nutritious foods on Earth. It’s often used by athletes to increase energy before an event. It’s high B-vitamin content helps combat stress and anxiety. It also contains a good source of vitamins A,….. Read more

Posted in Other Supplements | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Goldenseal Benefits For Your Health

Picture of Goldenseal in bloom

Goldenseal or “the yellow root” as it is sometimes called, is a perennial woodland herb that grows in the North Eastern region of the U.S and is part of the Buttercup family. Goldenseal is used for it’s many medicinal properties in a variety of ways both topically as well as internally. This herb has been in constant use since the mid nineteenth century and continues to have a strong following due to it’s effectiveness in treating many ailments. It is one of the most widely used….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Astragalus

Astragalus Plant

Astragalus Root Benefits Astragalus root increases energy in the body and fights against lack of appetite, colds, ulcers, diabetes and general weakness. It boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties. It increases blood circulation too. Astragalus is famous for it’s immune boosting properties. Though this isn’t the main use of this herb in Chinese traditional medicine, Western doctors have found out that astragalus produces interferon….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

The Benefits Of Rhodiola Rosea Tea

Rhodiola Rosea Tea

In this article about Rhodiola Rosea, we’ll be discussing some of the benefits and side effects of drinking tea made from this herb. Rhodiola Rosea is an extremely tough plant. It can thrive in the harshest of environments even though it only has one root. It has many medicinal benefits too that we’ll soon take a look at. Rhodiola is generally found in the high, cold mountains of Siberia. For hundreds of years, people have gathered the greenish blue leaves of this plant and….. Read more

Posted in Articles | Also tagged , , , , , | Comments closed

Maitake

Maitake Mushroom

Maitake Mushroom Benefits Maitake is considered a medicinal mushroom and is classified as an adaptogen. An adaptogen helps the body resist all forms of stress, either mental or physical and has a normalizing function on the body. Unlike common mushrooms, Maitake is packed with healthy nutrients, such as powerful antioxidants, Vitamins B, C and niacin, minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, selenium, protein, amino acids, and fiber. Many medicinal herbs don’t taste good and have….. Read more

Posted in Mushrooms | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Echinacea

Echinacea Plant

Echinacea Benefits This herb works wonderfully for colds and flu. Drinking a tea made from echinacea can greatly reduce the severity and duration of these two illnesses. It’s also widely used for treating upper respiratory tract infections and sore throat. It’s also an effective anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibiotic and detoxifier. Echinacea is one of the most researched herbs in existence. Millions of people have used it to boost the immune system to help fight off viral,….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Shiitake

Shiitake Mushroom growing on tree branch

Shiitake Mushroom Benefits Shiitake is used as an anti-cancer drug in Japan and sanctioned for this purpose by their FDA. It has many health benefits, such as it’s ability to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. It possesses powerful antioxidant properties that help the body fight the damage of free radicals. It is also known to reduce inflammation. It also has many beneficial vitamins and minerals. This mushroom contains Lentinan. Lentinan is used by some to treat….. Read more

Posted in Mushrooms | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Reishi

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi Mushroom Benefits Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom that can be helpful in combating many different health conditions. A well known benefit of consuming Reishi is it’s beneficial effect on the immune system. It promotes a strong immunity to disease. While some pharmaceutical medicines lose their effectiveness after a time, Reishi does not. It can be taken daily with no build-up of tolerance. Reishi enhances the immune system, helping the body….. Read more

Posted in Mushrooms | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Spirulina

Spirulina

Spirulina Benefits Spirulina has all the health benefits of any nutritious whole food. It is packed with protein, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals. It’s often taken be people who lack a good source of protein in their diets, such as vegetarians. It’s even been said to ward off several types of cancer, especially mouth cancer. Rather than take synthetic multi-vitamins, many people take Spirulina tablets. The nutrients in this healthy blue-green algae are more easily….. Read more

Posted in Green Superfoods | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Chlorella

Chlorella

Chlorella Benefits Chlorella can be taken by anyone needing more high quality protein, vitamins and minerals in their diet. It’s very quickly and easily assimilated and goes to work right away. It binds heavy metals to itself and removes them safely from the body. It’s great for de-toxing the body of impurities. Chlorella is considered a “superfood”. This means that is contains many nutrients and offers many health benefits to the human body. Not many foods are classified as….. Read more

Posted in Green Superfoods | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Siberian Ginseng

Siberian Ginseng

Siberian Ginseng Benefits Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleuthero, is considered as a normalizer, stress reducer and energizer. It has been traditionally used to negate stress and fatigue. It is often used as a tonic to invigorate a person physically and mentally. It’s considered an “adaptogen”. An adaptogen is a substance that reduces the effects of mental and physical stress and can help the user in a general, non-specific way. Siberian ginseng became popular in the West in….. Read more

Posted in Western Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed

Korean Ginseng

Korean Ginseng

Korean Ginseng Benefits Korean ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is considered an energizer, normalizer and stress reducer. It has been used traditionally to ward off fatigue and stress. It’s also used as a general tonic to invigorate a person mentally and physically. It is considered to be an “adaptogen”. An adaptogen is a substance that can increase resistance to stress of any kind, either mental or physical and can invigorate the user in a non-specific way. The root must be at….. Read more

Posted in Chinese Herbs | Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments closed