33601

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 14:15
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Cinnamon

  • Botanical Name

    Cinnamomum verum

  • Part Used

    Stem bark outer

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    20 to 40mL weekly

True cinnamon, also called Ceylon cinnamon, is an exotic spice native to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon). It is a warming tonic used to increase general circulation and can be especially useful when someone has chronically cold hands and feet. It can also benefit acute situations like colds and the flu in which the person feels shivery and cold. Cinnamon can help ease digestive issues like indigestion and cramping and because of its mild astringency it will help firm loose bowels and is an effective diarrhoea remedy. Numerous clinical studies have shown that cinnamon can dramatically benefit people with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Cinnamon has a strong antioxidant capacity and can be used to decrease inflammation caused by oxidative stress. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Cinnamon and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    It has a long history of use as a culinary spice in many cultures and additionally, in native Ayurvedic medicine it is considered a remedy for respiratory, digestive and gynaecological ailments. It's history as a medicinal plant goes as far back as the Ancient Egyptians and Chinese. As the availability across Europe increased it was then adopted by herbalists for medicinal uses. It was traditionally used as a flavouring agent and digestive tonic in cases of diarrhoea, anorexia and dyspepsia. It was also used for rheumatism and menstrual disorders. Not to be confused with cassia (Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J. Presl or synonym Cinnamomum aromaticum Nees) which is cheaper, has a stronger flavour and is often marketed as ‘cinnamon’.

  • Actions

    Hypoglycaemic, hypoinsulinaemic, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, immunomodulator, astringent, antidiarrhoeal, carminative, hypolipidaemic

  • Indications

    •    Digestive disorders including flatulent dyspepsia, nausea and diarrhoea
    •    Bacterial and viral infections including the common cold and influenza
    •    Fungal infections including tinea pedis and candida
    •    Diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome
    •    Hyperlipidaemia
    •    Possible cancer prophylaxis and treatment adjuvant
    •    Oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders

  • Energetics

    Pungent, sweet, astringent, heating

  • Use in Pregnancy

    There are no known problems with the use of cinnamon during pregnancy and lactation provided that doses do not greatly exceed the amounts used in food.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antidiabetic drugs

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Ginger, Thyme, Clove, Garlic

33501

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 14:09
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Uva Ursi, Bearberry

  • Botanical Name

    Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    60%

  • Dose

    30 to 60mL weekly

Uva ursi is the prime remedy for urinary tract inflammation and infections (UTI), particularly cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis. It soothes, tones and strengthens the membranes of the urinary system.
The presence of tannins in uva ursi justifies its use as an astringent for managing diarrhoea and reducing other cases of intestinal irritation. This astringency means it may also be used in some forms of bed wetting

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Uva Ursi and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Uva ursi leaves have been used traditionally for cystitis. Bears are particularly fond of the fruit, hence the specific epithet Latin name "uva-ursi" which means "bear's grape"

  • Actions

    Urinary antimicrobial, astringent, diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory

  • Indications

    •    Urinary tract inflammation and infections (UTI), particularly cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis 
    •    Diarrhoea, intestinal irriation, some forms of bed wetting
    •    Kidney and bladder stones.

  • Energetics

    Cold

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Contraindicated

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Short-term use only. Use cautiously in highly inflamed or ulcerated conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. If pain or irritation associated with cystitis persists for more than 48 hours consult a doctor.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with lithium

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Buchu, Golden Rod, Juniper, Golden Seal, Horsetail, Hydrangea, Gravel Root

33401

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 14:05
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Damiana

  • Botanical Name

    Turnera diffusa

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    55%

  • Dose

    20 to 40mL weekly

Damiana is an excellent strengthening remedy for the nervous system with a reputation as an aphrodisiac. It can also be used for urinary issues and delayed, or suppressed, menstruation. It can be used to promote digestion and expectoration to resolve phlegm.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Damiana and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Used by Mayans and Aztecs, and still used in Mexico as a stimulating beverage drunk like ordinary black tea, damiana is famed for its aphrodisiac qualities. 

  • Actions

    Nervine tonic, stimulant (circulatory and central nervous system), anxiolytic, antioxidant, astringent, diuretic, mild laxative

  • Indications

    •    Sexual dysfunction, impotence and decreased libido
    •    Anxiety, nervous exhaustion which is causing depression, mental and physical fatigue, poor concentration
    •    To promote digestion, nervous dyspepsia, constipation
    •    Urinary issues
    •    Delayed or suppressed menstruation

  • Energetics

    Dry, neutral.

  • Use in Pregnancy

    No adverse effects expected. Safety in pregnancy has not been scientifically evaluated, however, no increase in foetal abnormalities has been observed from limited use in women.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Traditionally damiana is not recommended for people with overactive sympathetic nervous system activity which has become an identified characteristic in cardiovascular diseases like ischemic heart disease, chronic heart failure and hypertension plus type II diabetes and Parkinson's disease.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antidiabetic drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Muira Puama, Sage, Sarsaparilla, Tribulus

32901

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 14:01
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Wild Cherry

  • Botanical Name

    Prunus serotina

  • Part Used

    Bark

  • Alcohol

    30%

  • Dose

    15 to 80mL weekly

Wild cherry bark is a notable example of an antitussive, a remedy that quells coughing. Its powerful sedative action on the cough reflex means its main indication is dry, unproductive cough and thus it has a role in the irritating and persistent cough of bronchitis and whooping cough. It is especially helpful for coughs that prevent someone from sleeping or for the persistent dry cough that lingers long after other symptoms of a cold or flu have abated. A word of caution though, inhibition of a cough does not equate to the healing of a chest infection which will still need to be treated. Practitioners also reach for wild cherry when there are excess uric acid deposits causing painful gout or an excessive immune system response like seasonal allergies. It is also a great ally for aiding digestion and supporting heart health.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Wild Cherry and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Early colonists to America found Native Americans using wild cherry to relieve coughs but also as a general sedative and treatment for labour pain, diarrhoea and pain and soreness in the chest in general. They adopted the Native American uses for the herb but also widely used it to treat the bronchitis, whooping cough and pneumonia that plagued their communities. Wild cherry was one of the most popular botanical medicines of the 19th century, both by itself and as an ingredient in numerous patent medicines. 

  • Actions

    Antitussive, sedative, astringent, expectorant, antispasmodic, antioxidant, carminative, relaxant

  • Indications

    •     Cough, bronchitis, whooping cough, seasonal allergies
    •     Nervous dyspepsia
    •     Gout

  • Energetics

    Cooling

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Likely unsafe when used orally

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known

  • Drug Interactions

    None known

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Angelica, Aniseed, Elecampane, Grindelia, Hyssop, Ribwort, Thyme, Liquorice, Mullein

32601

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:52
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Bilberry

  • Botanical Name

    Vaccinium myrtillus

  • Part Used

    Fruit

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    20 to 80mL weekly

Bilberry is known as a remedy for improving eyesight. It has also been used to treat diarrhoea, ulcerative colitis and haemorrhoids and externally for inflammation of the mouth and mucous membranes. Some research also suggests that it is useful in venous insufficiency, peripheral vascular disorders (such as Raynaud's syndrome) and capillary fragility.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Bilberry and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Bilberry has been used as food for centuries due to its high nutritive value. Bilberry’s history of medicinal use dates back to the Middle Ages but it did not become widely known to herbalists until the 16th century when its use was documented for treating bladder stones, biliary disorders, scurvy, coughs and lung tuberculosis.

  • Actions

    Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, hypoglycaemic, antiplatelet, vasoprotective, antiulcer, antidiarrhoeal, cytoprotective, apoptosis inducing.

  • Indications

    •    Chronic venous insufficiency, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, peripheral vascular disorders (such as Raynaud's syndrome) and capillary fragility
    •    Impaired night vision, retinopathy (diabetic and vascular), glaucoma, cataract and macular degeneration
    •    Fibrocystic breast disorder, dysmenorrhoea
    •    Cancer prevention, adjunct to chemotherapy
    •    Prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disorders
    •    Diarrhoea, ulcerative colitis
    •    Inflammatory disorders
    •    Externally for inflammation of the mouth and mucous membranes 

  • Energetics

    Cold, dry

  • Use in Pregnancy

    A theoretical risk exists that high doses (>170 mg anthocyanidins) may increase bleeding risk, however this remains uncertain as there is inadequate clinical evidence. Use with caution in people with haemorrhagic disorders. 

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Likely to be safe when consumed in dietary amounts

  • Drug Interactions

    Monitor with antidiabetic drugs. Avoid use with topoisomerase chemotherapy drugs until safety can be established. Reduced absorption of iron is theoretically possible if taken at the same time because of the tannin content of the herb. Separate doses by two hours.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Pomegranate, Green Tea, Maritime Pine

32501

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:48
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Lavender

  • Botanical Name

    Lavandula angustifolia

  • Part Used

    Flower

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    10 to 30mL weekly

Herbalists and aromatherapists rely on lavender for everything from relieving stress, relaxing the mind and body and promoting sleep to healing wounds and encouraging healthy digestion. 
In the digestive tract lavender’s relaxing effect can soothe spasm and colic related to tension and anxiety and relieves flatulence, nausea, indigestion and enhances the appetite. The fluid extract can also be taken for stomach and bowel infections causing vomiting or diarrhoea. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Lavender and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Prized for its delightful scent and pretty blooms lavender has been a favourite herb for centuries. It was used as an antiseptic in ancient Arabian, Greek and Roman medicines. In the 17th century, Culpeper described lavender as having ‘use for pains in the head following cold, cramps, convulsions, palsies and faintings’.

  • Actions

    Sedative, anxiolytic, nerve tonic, antidepressant, carminative, antispasmodic

  • Indications

    •    Depression, anxiety, low mood, restlessness, insomnia, headache
    •    Indigestion, flatulence, colic, digestive weakness
    •    Menopausal symptoms, menopausal depression

  • Energetics

    Dry, hot 

  • Use in Pregnancy

    No restrictions known for external use. Safety of internal use has not been scientifically established

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with barbiturates, benzodiazepines and central nervous system depressant drugs. Monitor with antihypertensive drugs. May be beneficial with antidepressant drugs, including imipramine, with medical supervision. 

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Lemon Balm, Rosemary, Scullcap, Valerian, St. John’s Wort, Oats Seed, Rhodiola, Hops, Passion Flower

32401

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:44
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Saw Palmetto, Cabbage Palm, Dwarf Palmetto

  • Botanical Name

    Serenoa repens

  • Part Used

    Fruit

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    65%

  • Dose

    15 to 30mL weekly

Saw palmetto is the premier herbal treatment for enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It has been found to be useful for urinary disorders such as cystitis, urethritis, incontinence and bed wetting. Saw palmetto has been found to be helpful for polycystic ovarian disease, infertility associated with elevated oestrogen and testosterone combined with low progesterone, as well as for ovarian pain. Both men and women suffering from cystic acne may find relief from saw palmetto. Saw palmetto has been shown to improve androgenic alopecia and may also be useful in the management of hirsutism. It is also beneficial for bronchitis, asthma, colds, congestion, coughs and irritated throats

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Saw Palmetto and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Saw palmetto has historically been classified as the ‘men’s reproductive herb’ and, while it is great for many men’s health issues including traditionally for erectile dysfunction, it is also a great herb for women’s reproductive issues. 

  • Actions

    Anti-inflammatory, male tonic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, diuretic

  • Indications

    •    Benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, male infertility
    •    Cystitis, urethritis, incontinence, bed wetting
    •    Polycystic ovarian disease, infertility associated with elevated oestrogen and testosterone combined with low progesterone, ovarian pain, cystic acne, androgenic alopecia, hirsutism
    •    Bronchitis, asthma, colds, congestion, coughs, irritated throats, whooping cough, acute and chronic catarrh, chronic laryngitis, chronic sore throat. 

  • Energetics

    Pungent, sweet, warming, moistening

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Use of saw palmetto during pregnancy is contraindicated due to the herb's hormonal effects. In clinical practice it is not used in pregnancy.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    If symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia worsen, blood is detected in the urine or acute urinary retention occurs, professional reassessment is required. Take with meals to avoid minor complaints such as gastrointestinal upset, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea

  • Drug Interactions

    Avoid saw palmetto products if undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Caution with anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) drugs and oestrogen such as hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives. Monitor with androgenic drugs such as testosterone. Combination may be beneficial with finasteride and other drugs used for benign prostatic hyperplasia. 

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Nettle Root, Horsetail, Small Leafed Willow

32201

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:40
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Gravel Root

  • Botanical Name

    Eupatorium purpureum

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    15 to 80mL weekly

As its common name implies gravel root is used for all sorts of “gravel” or stones in the body. It has been used for stones in the urinary tract, kidney or bladder, cystitis and painful urination. Gravel root may act particularly against uric acid stones. Gravel root can also play a useful role in the systemic treatment of rheumatism and gout.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Gravel Root and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Early settler Dr Edwin Hale says, “Probably no remedy is in such extensive use in domestic practice, for the relief of renal diseases, and those urinary symptoms which are commonly supposed to arise from calculi.”

  • Actions

    Antilithic, antirheumatic, diuretic

  • Indications

    •    Urinary disorders including cystitis, painful urination, urethritis, urinary calculus , urethritis, prostatitis and urinary lithiasis
    •    Rheumatic conditions including gout

  • Energetics

    Cooling, dry

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Not recommended

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with lithium

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Horsetail, Uva Ursi, Hydrangea, Couchgrass, Golden Rod

32101

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:36
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Green Tea, Macha

  • Botanical Name

    Camellia sinensis

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    55%

  • Dose

    20 to 60mL weekly

Among all teas consumed in the world green tea, which is loaded with antioxidants, is the most studied for its health benefits including cancer prevention and degenerative diseases like cardiovascular diseases, arthritis and diabetes. Promising results have been shown in osteoporosis, hypertension, metabolic syndrome and hypercholesterolemia.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Green Tea and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world after water, drunk in the United Kingdom for 350 years and in Asia for more than 4000 years. 

  • Actions

    Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic, chemoprotective, antiproliferative, antifibrotic, cardioprotective, antihyperlipidaemic, hypocholesterolaemic, antiarteriosclerotic, antiplatelet, thermogenic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, hypoglycaemic, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective.

  • Indications

    •    Cancer prevention and prevention of recurrence, cancer therapy adjuvant
    •    Cardiovascular protection, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, reducing atherosclerosis and thrombosis
    •    General antioxidant therapy
    •    Weight loss, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal dysbiosis, ulcerative colitis
    •    General anti-inflammatory therapy for arthritis, osteoporosis and other inflammatory diseases 
    •    Liver disease, renal disease, fibrosis of pancreas and liver, diabetes
    •    Chelation therapy adjuvant especially iron
    •    Infections, influenza, allergic rhinitis 
    •    Dementia, cognitive impairment, depression
    •    Topically used for genital warts, gingivitis, sunburn protection, skin aging, bags under the eyes, athlete's foot

  • Energetics

    Sweet and bitter with cooling properties.

  • Use in Pregnancy

    While dietary intakes appear safe, excessive use is not recommended due to caffeine content.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Considered safe and nontoxic as a tea in moderate amounts.

  • Drug Interactions

    Avoid with bortezomib (an anticancer medication), ephedrine and nadolol (used to treat high blood pressure). Caution with amphetamines, anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) drugs, clozapine (psychiatric medication), hepatotoxic drugs, lithium, monoamine oxidase inhibitors ((MAOIs)anti-depressants), phenylpropanolamine (used as a decongestant), theophylline (used to manage the symptoms of asthma and other lung conditions) and verapamil (used to treat high blood pressure). Monitor with alcohol, antidiabetic drugs, antifungal agents, cimetidine (used to treat heartburn), central nervous system depressants, central nervous system stimulants, disulfiram (used to treat alcoholism), fluvoxamine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant), iron, oral contraceptives and quinoline antibiotics. There is a theoretical beneficial interaction with doxorubicin (a chemotherapy medication).

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Maritime Pine, Pomegranate, Rosemary, Bilberry

32001

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 13:32
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Saffron

  • Botanical Name

    Crocus sativus

  • Part Used

    Stigma & style

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    50%

  • Dose

    5 to 25mL weekly

Throughout the past three decades increased scientific attention has been given to examining saffron’s use as a potential therapeutic or preventive agent for a number of health conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease and depression. Findings from initial clinical trials suggest that saffron can improve the symptoms and effects of depression, premenstrual syndrome, sexual dysfunction and infertility and excessive snacking behaviours. Preliminary trials of saffron’s impact on brain function and the management of Alzheimer’s disease are promising. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Saffron and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Saffron, one of the world’s costliest substances, is a spice known by many ancient civilisations for its various properties especially the medicinal uses. Though saffron is best known for its use in traditional Persian medicine it was also used by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, as well as in the Ayurvedic tradition of India. Its traditional medical indications were many and included cramps, asthma, menstrual conditions, liver disease and pain. In Ayurveda, saffron is said to support the tonic action of other herbs (such as shatavari) and when used as a spice promotes assimilation of food into deeper tissues.

  • Actions

    Nervine tonic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, adaptogen (TCM), neuroprotective, cognitive enhancer, sedative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antinociceptive, analgesic, anticonvulsant, expectorant, emmenagogue, aphrodisiac, cardiotonic, hypotensive, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic

  • Indications

    •    Low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, insomnia, cognitive disorders, to improve brain function, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease
    •    Respiratory issues including cough, asthma 
    •    Liver disease
    •    To support normal menstruation and for menstruation problems such as dysmenorrhoea, PMS, chronic uterine haemorrhage
    •    Pain, spasms, osteoarthritis, traditionally used for seizures
    •    Colic, bedwetting
    •    Cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, weight loss, obesity, metabolic syndrome
    •    To support healthy retinal function, eye health, macular degeneration 
    •    Fevers
    •    Potential role in the treatment of cancer

  • Energetics

    Sweet, neutral

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Saffron has been used as a spice and food colouring agent for centuries and is likely to be safe when consumed in the usual dietary doses. Whether high dose saffron is safe in pregnancy remains to be confirmed.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Saffron should be used under professional supervision in the treatment of any mental health condition to promote safety.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with antihypertensive drugs and calcium channel blockers.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Zizyphus, Valerian, Passion Flower, Hops, Californian Poppy, Magnolia, Scullcap, Lemon Balm, Lime Flowers

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