25901

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:23
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Cat’s Claw

  • Botanical Name

    Uncaria tomentosa

  • Part Used

    Bark

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    60%

  • Dose

    15 to 40mL weekly

From the highlands of the Peruvian Amazon, cat’s claw has been used for thousands of years to treat immunologic and digestive disorders. Some conditions reportedly improved by cat’s claw include gastritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, prostatitis, premenstrual syndrome, menstrual irregularity, viral illnesses and cancer (acting as a non-specific immunomodulating agent).

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Cat’s Claw and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Used in traditional and cultural practices in South America for centuries, especially in Peru, where the Ashaninka Indians classified it as a 'powerful plant' and used it to restore health. It’s significance in traditional medicine is emphasised by its exclusive use by priests to influence the communication between the physical and spiritual in people.

  • Actions

    Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic, immunomodulatory, immunostimulant, antiviral, antibacterial, emmenagogue

  • Indications

    •    Rheumatism and as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatment (it helps reduce the number of painful and swollen joints), inflammation of the joints, arthritis (all kinds), muscle pains, strains and injuries
    •    Other inflammatory conditions such as cystitis, Crohn's, colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastric ulcers, gastritis or other disturbances in the gastrointestinal system
    •    For strengthening the immune system and as an adjuvant therapy in acute and recurrent infectious diseases particularly viral infections including human papilloma virus (HPV), herpes zoster, herpes simplex and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and dengue
    •    Adjunctive therapy for cancer (to reduce side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and protect cells) 
    •    A general daily tonic (to tone, balance and strengthen all body functions), convalescence, debility, chronic fatigue syndrome and Lyme disease
    •    Externally for acute and chronic inflammation of the skin such as cuts, bruises, burns or insect bites
    •    Reputed to be contraceptive

  • Energetics

    Warming

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Owing to its traditional use as an emmenagogue and as a contraceptive at high doses, it’s use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Based on the belief that cat’s claw is an immunostimulant it is not advised for patients awaiting bone marrow or organ transplant, persons with medically induced immunosuppression (e.g., patients with organ transplants), autoimmune disease, multiple sclerosis or tuberculosis.  However, some researchers disagree with this view and suggest that cat’s claw may be helpful for transplant patients.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with protease inhibitors (e.g. antiviral drugs such as atazanavir, ritonavir, saquinavir) and anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) and immunosuppressant drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Andrographis, Echinacea, Thuja, Reishi

25801

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:19
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Clove

  • Botanical Name

    Syzygium aromaticum

  • Part Used

    Flower bud

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    5 to 80mL weekly

Clove is useful for the treatment of toothaches and gum disorders, candida, ringworm, athlete’s foot and other fungal infections, bacterial and viral infections such as bronchial infections, coughs and sinus problems, digestive disorders such as indigestion, immune modulation and oxidative stress.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Clove and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Clove has a long history of use as a culinary and household spice in many cultures. In cooking, clove is used in sweet and savoury dishes alike. In ancient times cloves were used as a natural preservative in food, for embalming and as an ingredient in incense and herbal cigarettes. Clove has also been used as a medicinal plant in many cultures including in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as Western herbal medicine. The main applications were for digestive disorders and pain relief in tooth ache as the oil has an anaesthetic and antiseptic action.

  • Actions

    Astringent, anaesthetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, carminative, antibacterial, antifungal

  • Indications

    •    Tooth aches & gum disorders
    •    Candida and other fungal infections
    •    Bacterial and viral infections
    •    Digestive disorders, especially ulcers
    •    Anal fissures (topical)
    •    Immune modulation
    •    Oxidative stress

  • Energetics

    Pungent, heating

  • Use in Pregnancy

    While culinary use is safe, medicinal dosages of clove in pregnancy should be avoided as there is insufficient safety data and some animal studies have shown clove can interfere with implantation or have teratogenic effects.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Clove should be avoided in those with a known allergy or hypersensitivity.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) and antidiabetes drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Prickly Ash, Cinnamon, Thyme

25501

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:15
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Withania, Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng

  • Botanical Name

    Withania somnifera

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    15 to 40mL weekly

In recent years withania has been used by Western herbalists for its ability to both strengthen those who are weak and calm those who are stressed and anxious. It enhances the function of the brain and nervous system and improves the memory. It improves the function of the reproductive system promoting a healthy sexual and reproductive balance. Being a powerful adaptogen it enhances the body's resilience to stress.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Withania and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Withania is a revered medicinal plant that has been used in Ayurvedic and indigenous medicine for millennia to relieve stress, increase energy levels and improve concentration. In Ayurveda withania is referred to as a rasayana. Most of the rasayana herbs are adaptogen and anti-stress agents. Among the Ayurvedic rasayana herbs withania holds the most prominent place. 

  • Actions

    Adaptogen, anxiolytic, nervine tonic, tonic, mild sedative, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, antitumour, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective

  • Indications

    •    Anxiety, insomnia, stress especially with debility and nervous exhaustion, wasting disorders, especially in children and the elderly, exhaustion associated with reduced iron levels, anaemia 
    •    Longevity and conditions associated with aging such as memory loss, Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease (combines well with Terminalia arjuna).
    •    Chronic and degenerative diseases, especially of an inflammatory nature, such as arthritis, hypothyroidism and insulin resistance
    •    Reproductive health, low libido, impotence due to stress and poor vitality
    •    Possible prophylactic in cancer and adjunctive treatment during chemotherapy
    •    Assistance in the withdrawal of addictive drugs

  • Energetics

    Warm, moist, sweet, astringent, bitter.

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Withania is used as a tonic to support pregnancy and lactation, and to prevent miscarriage, in the Ayurvedic tradition. However Western texts urge caution in pregnancy due to reputed abortifacient activity and antifertility effects when taken in large doses which were noted in early animal studies despite there being no evidence of foetal damage.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Use with caution in peptic ulcer disease as withania may cause gastrointestinal irritation. People who are sensitive to the Solanaceae family should use this herb with caution.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with benzodiazepines antidiabetic, central nervous system depressant and immunosuppressant drugs. Monitor with antihypertensive drugs. Combination may be beneficial with antipsychotic drugs such as haloperidol, clomipramine and chemotherapeutic agents. Medical supervision is recommended. 

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Siberian Ginseng, Korean Ginseng (More Stimulating), Reishi, Astragalus, Shatavari, Rhodiola, Schizandra

25401

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:11
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Oak Bark

  • Botanical Name

    Quercus robur

  • Part Used

    Bark

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    30%

  • Dose

    20 to 40mL weekly

The astringent agents found in oak have been employed for many complaints including diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. It can be used as a mouthwash and gargle for discharging, bleeding or infected surfaces of the mouth and throat including sore throats and mouth ulcers. It can be applied locally for minor wounds, cuts, scrapes, vaginal discharge and herpes.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Oak Bark and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    The European oak tree has been used in both industry and medicine for thousands of years. The astringent agents found in oak have been employed for many complaints including diarrhoea, vomiting, mouth ulcers, sore throats and leucorrhoea. The tree was sacred to the Druids and much folklore exists about its magical uses, including the acorns being used for fertility. 
    •    Digestive system:  diarrhoea, dysentery, vomiting, haemorrhoids.
    •    ENT:  colds, catarrh, sinus infection, throat infection, tonsillitis, bleeding gums.
    •    Skin:  topical for bleeding, infections, mouth ulcers, inflammation, herpes, eczema, varicose veins.
    •    Genitourinary:  kidney tonic, leucorrhoea, excessive menstrual bleeding.

  • Actions

    Astringent, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, styptic, diuretic

  • Indications

    •    Diarrhoea, dysentery
    •    Sore throat, tonsillitis (gargle), bleeding gums
    •    Haemorrhage
    •    Leucorrhoea 
    •    Possible use in oxidative stress and cancer support
    •    Skin infections (topical)

  • Energetics

    Bitter, cooling, drying

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Not generally used or recommended during pregnancy.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Topical application of oak should be avoided in cases of significant damage to skin surface.

  • Drug Interactions

    Due to the tannin content, absorption of alkaloid and alkaline drugs may be inhibited or reduced and caution is warranted.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Agrimony, Witch Hazel, Lady’s Mantle, Raspberry, Shepherd’s Purse, Stone Root, Yarrow

25301

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:05
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Astragalus, Radix Astragali, Huangqi

  • Botanical Name

    Astragalus membranaceus Also known as Astragalus propinquus schischkin

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    25%

  • Dose

    20 to 40mL weekly

Astragalus has been studied extensively for its effect on the immune system. It has been shown to reduce the occurrence of common respiratory illnesses and bolster immune system activity in general. Astragalus can help build and restore overall health by slowly nourishing the body deeply over time. This makes it the perfect herb to support the immune system during the winter months. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Astragalus and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Astragalus has a long history of medicinal use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is one of the most popular herbal medicines worldwide. The Chinese name huangqi is the symbol of the Yellow Emperor (a cultural hero who wrote an ancient treatise on health and disease), referring to the yellow root and its status as one of the most popular and important qi (life force) tonifying herbs in TCM. In TCM astragalus has been used for the treatment of general weakness, chronic illness and to increase overall vitality and as a tonic to build stamina. Ancient Chinese texts record the use of astragalus for tonifying the spleen, blood and Qi.

  • Actions

    Immunomodulator, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, diuretic, cardioprotective, adaptogen, antibacterial, antiviral.

  • Indications

    •    Immune system dysfunction (for treatment and prophylaxis of viral infections such as frequent colds and influenza, bronchitis, Herpes simplex and HIV, Lyme disease (but not late stage), - adjunctive cancer treatment, allergic rhinitis)
    •    General prevention of infection and autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s disease, increasing vitality, stamina and endurance (e.g. athletes), fatigue, anaemia, weak limbs
    •    Enhancing cardiac function, angina, hypertension, oedema
    •    Hepatitis
    •    Asthma
    •    Prolapsed organs
    •    Chronic diarrhoea
    •    Abnormal uterine bleeding
    •    Diabetes mellitus

  • Energetics

    Sweet, warming and moist.

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Safety is unknown although no evidence of foetal damage has been reported in animal studies. There were no reported safety concerns in a trial of pregnant women with gestational diabetes.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    As per TCM, it is avoided when there are heat signs or yin deficiency signs. It is often said that astragalus is contraindicated in acute infection however if someone is sick, and also exhibits symptoms of weakness, it might be used to strengthen the person’s reserves to boost them towards wellness. It is contraindicated for some in certain kinds of late-stage Lyme disease.

  • Drug Interactions

    Avoid with those on immunosuppressive drugs and transplanted organs. Caution advised with lithium.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Reishi, Siberian Ginseng, Withania

24901

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 09:01
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Chickweed, Starweed

  • Botanical Name

    Stellaria media

  • Part Used

    Herb

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    25%

  • Dose

    20 to 100mL weekly

This cooling, soothing herb is best known for its use in itchy and inflamed skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also used for digestive upsets, rheumatism, ulcers, constipation, coughs and sore throats.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Chickweed and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Considered a ubiquitous garden weed, chickweed has been historically used as a potage herb being favoured in soups and stews amongst peasants and nobles alike. It was often included in spring tonic remedies for its nutritive value. Chickweed water is an old wives’ remedy for obesity however recent studies may be one step closer to scientifically proving this.

  • Actions

    Demulcent, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antitussive, antirheumatic.  Topically:  vulnerary, emollient, antipruritic

  • Indications

    •    Inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism, gout and as an adjunct to cancer treatment
    •    Digestive disorders - including diarrhoea, constipation, dyspepsia and ulcers
    •    Bronchial phlegm, bronchitis, dry coughs, sore throat
    •    Topically for eczema, psoriasis, rashes, burns, ulcers, abscess, itchy skin, inflammation of the eye, haemorrhoids and other pruritic skin conditions

  • Energetics

    Bitter, sweet, cooling

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Chickweed is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used in dietary amounts however safety is not known when used in larger quantities.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Those with known contact hypersensitivities may need to be careful with topical use of chickweed due to the potential for allergic reactions.

  • Drug Interactions

    None known

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Marshmallow, Ribwort

24601

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 08:56
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Parsley Root

  • Botanical Name

    Petroselinum crispum

  • Part Used

    Root

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Monograph

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    25%

  • Dose

    40 to 80mL weekly

Used medicinally for centuries parsley root has a particular affinity for the urinary tract being useful for urinary infections and kidney stones. It also can be used for bronchitis, menstrual irregularity, digestive (flatulent dyspepsia) and arthritic conditions

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Parsley Root and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Parsley root is documented in many old herbals and was revered for its medicinal uses as well as for sacred and superstitious reasons.

  • Actions

    Diuretic, carminative, spasmolytic, expectorant, anti-rheumatic, emmenagogue

  • Indications

    •    Gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, flatulent dyspepsia with intestinal colic, gall bladder problems especially gall stones
    •    Urinary disorders such as cystitis, painful urination, treatment and prophylaxis of kidney gravel
    •    Bronchitic cough in the elderly
    •    Poor appetite, weak digestion
    •    Dysmenorrhoea, functional amenorrhoea
    •    Muscle pain
    •    Diabetes
    •    Hypertension
    •    Oxidative stress
    •    Possible adjunctive use in some cancers

  • Energetics

    Sweet, warm, moist

  • Use in Pregnancy

    While safe to consume in culinary dishes, the use of the essential oil and fluid extract is contraindicated due to the emmenagogic action and potential for it to be abortifacient.  In the past parsley root was used as an abortifacient.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known.

  • Drug Interactions

    Caution with anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin), antidiabetic and diuretic drugs.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Buchu, Celery, Clivers, Corn Silk, Couch Grass, Crateva, Dandelion Leaf, Golden Rod, Gravel Root, Horsetail, Hydrangea, Juniper, Nettle Leaf

24501

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 08:52
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Black Walnut

  • Botanical Name

    Juglans nigra

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    10 to 80mL weekly

Herbal preparations derived from black walnut have been used for the treatment of acne, inflammatory diseases, ringworm and fungal, bacterial or viral infections.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Black Walnut and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Traditionally the black walnut leaves are of the highest value for curing scrofulous diseases (tuberculosis of the neck), herpes, eczema and for healing indolent ulcers.

  • Actions

    Alterative, astringent, laxative, anthelmintic (bitter), antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

  • Indications

    •    Intestinal parasites such as pinworm, ringworm and tapeworm.
    •    Fungal, bacterial and viral infections such as candida, athlete’s foot, sore throat, tonsillitis.
    •    Constipation or diarrhoea
    •    To reduce excessive sweating
    •    Menorrhagia
    •    Skin conditions:  acne, herpes, cold sores, warts, eczema, psoriasis, indolent ulcers

  • Energetics

    Sweet, heating

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Insufficient information, avoid using.

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known.

  • Drug Interactions

    None known.

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Wormwood, Mugwort, Celandine, Cloves

24201

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 08:48
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Epilobium, Small Leafed Willow, Willow Herb

  • Botanical Name

    Epilobium parviflorum

  • Part Used

    Herb

  • Clinical Summary

    Click here

  • Alcohol

    30%

  • Dose

    20 to 80mL weekly

Small leafed willow, also known by its genus name epilobium, has been a popular folk medicine for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as treating male lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to BPH and associated bladder and kidney disease.

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Epilobium and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    In the 20th century, especially in Austria, Germany and Poland, the use of small leafed willow as a herbal tea in the treatment of BPH, prostatitis and bladder and kidney disorders became very popular after the publication of the experiences of Austrian herbalist Maria Treben. Her knowledge and experiences with several herbal remedies, among them small leafed willow, were first published in the German language as a brochure in 1978 and as a book, Health Through God's Pharmacy, in 1980. 

  • Actions

    Prostate tonic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antidiarrhoeal, analgesic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal 

  • Indications

    •    Benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate and urinary tract infection
    •    Inflammation of the kidney and bladder

  • Energetics

    Astringent, bitter

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Insufficient reliable information available

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    None known

  • Drug Interactions

    None known

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Saw Palmetto, Nettle Root

23701

Submitted by admin on Mon, 02/28/2022 - 08:44
Top Product Attributes

  • Common Name

    Boldo

  • Botanical Name

    Peumus boldus

  • Part Used

    Leaf

  • Alcohol

    45%

  • Dose

    5 to 20mL weekly

Boldo has a history of use for detoxification used traditionally as a tonic to support liver and gallbladder function, to calm digestive disturbances such as dyspepsia and for bladder discomfort. It is also considered to be a good general medicine and tonic. 

Main Product Attributes
A guide to Boldo and its properties

  • Traditional Use

    Native Andean people have used boldo leaves for centuries for aiding digestion and as a general tonic. Explorers to South America observed natives using boldo leaves as a culinary spice. In 1875 it was introduced to British and American pharmacists as a treatment for mild stomach, liver and bladder discomforts. In Chile it was used to treat hepatic and gastrointestinal diseases such as dyspepsia and as an anthelmintic. In Peru the leaves were mainly used by indigenous tribes to maintain liver health, eliminate gallstones and support good digestion. 

  • Actions

    Cholagogue, choleretic, hepatoprotective, diuretic, mild urinary demulcent, antiseptic, stomachic, anthelmintic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant

  • Indications

    •    Symptomatic relief of dyspepsia and mild spasmodic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
    •    Liver and gallbladder disorders including gallstones (with medical supervision) and pain in these areas.
    •    Cystitis
    •    Rheumatism

  • Energetics

    Bitter, cold

  • Use in Pregnancy

    Boldo is contraindicated in individuals with obstruction of bile ducts and severe liver disease.  Excessive doses of boldo may cause renal irritation, because of the volatile oil, and should be avoided by individuals with an existing kidney disorder. Boldo should only be used in patients with gallstones after consultation with a physician. There is a risk of hepatotoxicity in elderly patients with fatty liver. 

  • Contraindications & Cautions

    Contraindicated  

  • Drug Interactions

    Avoid taking with tacrolimus (an immunosuppressive drug). Caution with lithium and anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) and hepatotoxic drugs. 

  • Dietary Information

    Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free

  • Substitutes

    Celandine, Dandelion Root, St. Mary’s Thistle, Schizandra, Globe Artichoke, Turmeric

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