View Products
Search Products
Order Form
Common Use Herbs
Pet Corner
Contact Us
Who We Are
Home
|
Common Use of Herbs
Acne, Common Cold , Depression, Prostate, Urinary System, Varicose Veins Herbs for Acne
The Skin
The skin is far more than a protective outer coating of the body; it is our interface with the physical world. Through it we touch and are touched, it is our projection into the world of for; it is the image we create.
It is through the skin that we have physical contact with our environment, as the whole area of the skin is rich in sensory nerve endings. In fact it is worth noting that in the growing embryo the skin develops from the same source as the nervous tissue. This common origin points to the close relationship between skin and nervous system, a relationship which can be seen as a physical manifestation of the close connection between our inner being and the way is reflection of internal problems and must be treated as such.
Anti-microbial
For some skin conditions anti-microbial have to be used to rid the body of microorganisms that have invaded it or act on the skin. Herbs that help here include Chickweed, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Marigold, Myrrh, Pasque Flower, Thuja, Thyme, and Wild Indigo. Acne is nearly always the product of blood impurities. The body needs cleanse it of toxins and mucus. Enhance the overall good health and well being and help eliminate skin blemishes and acne. KZHerbs offers one of the best remedies for Acne with Acne-B-Gone
Herbs for the Common ColdThe common cold and influenza are viral infections that affect almost everyone one or more times every year. When you catch a cold or the flu, the virus attaches itself to the cells of the mucous membranes in your respiratory tract. The virus destroys cells, which causes you to feel sick and experience symptoms like a sore throat and stuffy nose. Colds most often involve the upper respiratory tract, and flu viruses attack your lower respiratory tract producing more severe symptoms such as fever and body aches. Colds can be severe and lead to secondary infections including ear infections, bronchitis, sinusitis and influenza. Herbal and vitamin supplements can make you feel more comfortable, control fever, improve the body's recovery time, and provide protection.
Herbal supplements and tonics can strengthen the immune system and aid in balancing your body's biochemical and physiological systems. The immune system functions by producing antibodies and stimulating specialized cells, which destroy foreign cells or organisms and neutralize their toxic products. The immune system also recognizes and eliminates damaged or dying cells. The immunity process involves the production of white blood cells and other chemical and physical barriers in the body. Herbs help maintain the immune system and make it responsive to changing circumstances, and strengthen the body when under attack. When your various systems are in balance, you are less likely to get colds, flu and other infections.
Not all colds and flu can be prevented. If you have a viral infection, anything you do to stimulate your immune system can help reduce the severity and duration of your illness. There are several herbs that may offer protection or relief for you this cold and flu season.
Echinacea
This herb activates the immune system to counter both bacterial and viral infections. It inhibits the ability of viruses and bacteria to take over cells thus exposing the body to infection. Echinacea is a mild natural antibiotic and has a stimulating effect on the body's immune defenses. It is best taken at the onset of symptoms and can protect against staph and strep infections and help relieve swollen lymph nodes.
Goldenseal
Commonly found in combination formulas, goldenseal has antibacterial properties and is a potent remedy for disorders affecting mucous membranes. It is a valuable immune system enhancer and a cold and flu fighter. Goldenseal is valuable in fighting sinus and lung congestion, sore throats, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.
Garlic
Garlic is an excellent remedy for all types of chest infections. It is good for colds, flu, ear infections and it helps to reduce mucous. It may be taken with conventional antibiotics to support their action and ward off side effects. Garlic discourages the growth of many bacteria and viruses. It is especially good for persistent coughs and bronchitis. Garlic also contains vitamins A, C, and E, which also support the immune system.
Ginseng
This valuable herb increases mental and physical efficiency and resistance to stress and disease. It is an adaptogen that can balance the body's systems, depending on the individual needs. For example, if the white blood cell count is low the herb will increase the white blood cell count. Furthermore, when the body requires sleep it can produce a sedative effect. Ginseng increases immune function and resistance to infection and can help improve energy and stamina.
Hyssop
Hyssop has healing effects in the treatment of respiratory infections, lung conditions and bronchitis. Used as a tea, it is a strong expectorant, which acts by loosening phlegm, thus relieving symptoms such as congestion, coughs, and hoarseness. As an antiviral it also helps rid the body of toxins that are produced by viruses. Hyssop can sooth the digestive tract and mucous membranes offering relief for sore throats. It also has natural sedative effects and can help to reduce fevers.
Licorice
Licorice root works both by supporting the immune system and by directly inhibiting various viruses. It reduces throat irritations, lung congestion, and is used for coughs and bronchial problems. Licorice produces a protective lining for the stomach, making it a useful remedy in inflammatory stomach conditions. Licorice is one of the most prescribed herbs in Europe for the treatment of colds and flu.
Elderberry
Like echinacea, elderberry is a powerful immune system stimulant and can relieve several cold and flu symptoms. Elderberry tea is an old and effective remedy for relieving coughs, treating sinus congestion, and reducing the pain and swelling of a sore throat. It is also beneficial for respiratory conditions and promotes the removal of waste products from the body. The tea is relaxing and produces a mild perspiration that helps to reduce fever. Elderberries are rich in vitamins A and C.
Vitamins
In addition to taking herbs for colds and flu, it is important to have adequate nutritional support from vitamins. Beta-carotene (Vitamin A) aids in the proper function of the immune system. Vitamin C helps prevent many types of viral and bacterial infections and strengthens immune functions. Vitamin E protects the lungs, enhances the activity of Vitamin A, and helps alleviate fatigue. Zinc can help protect cells from infection and, especially in the form of a lozenge, can sooth sore throats.
The nutritional supplements and herbal treatments described in this article are available from KZ Herbs in the form of Ultra Multi Power.
Depression
St. John's Wort is a bushy perennial plant with numerous yellow flowers. It is native to many parts of the world including Europe and the United States. It is a wild growing plant in northern California, southern Oregon and Colorado.
The plant has been used as an herbal remedy since the Middle Ages. Many believed it to have magical powers to protect one from evil. Early Christian mystics named the plant after John the Baptist and is traditionally collected on St. John's Day, June 25, soaked in olive oil for days to produce a blood red anointing oil known as the "blood of Christ."
It has a 2,400-year history of safe and effective usage in many folk and herbal remedies.
Historically used as a nerve tonic, St. John's wort is now widely used as a mild antidepressant. It is a potent antiviral and antibacterial that is being investigated as a treatment for AIDS.
One of the best herbs for mood elevation is St. John's Wort. Several controlled studies have shown positive results in treating patients with mild to moderate depression. Improvement was shown with symptoms of sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, headache and exhaustion with no reported side effects.
Its action is based on the ability of the active ingredient, hypericin to inhibit the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain. The herb also inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO) and works as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI); both are actions similar to drugs prescribed for depression. In Germany, nearly half of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders are treated with hypericin. St. John's Wort should not be taken with any other antidepressants, it is not effective for severe depression, and no one should stop taking any prescribed medications for depression without proper medical care.
St. John's Wort has been administered in the treatment of many illnesses. The most well known action of St. John's wort is in repairing nerve damage and reducing pain and inflammation. The herb has been used to relieve menstrual cramping, sciatica, and arthritis. It has a favorable action on the secretion of bile and thus soothes the digestive system.
The blossoms have been used in folk medicine to relieve ulcers, gastritis, diarrhea and nausea. St. John's wort can also be effective in the treatment of incontinence and bed-wetting in children. Externally it is used on cuts as a disinfectant and to relieve inflammation and promote healing. The oil can be applied to sprains, bruises and varicose veins. Folk medicine has also has used it as a treatment for cancer.
The active constituents in the herb (there are over 50) include hypericin and pseudohypericin, flavonoids, tannins and procyanidins. The tannins are responsible for the astringent effect for wound healing. Hypericin increases capillary blood flow and is a MAO inhibitor.
There are many studies documenting the clinical effects of hypericum as an antidepressant treatment similar to several synthetic antidepressants, but with a minimum of side effects. Hypericin has been demonstrated to increase theta waves in the brain. Theta waves normally occur during sleep and have been associated with deep meditation, serene pleasure and heightened creative activity. St. John's Wort effectually may improve perception and clarify thinking processes.
There have been incidences of photosensitization as a side effect in animals. Anyone who is hypersensitive to sunlight or is taking other photosensitizing drugs should be cautious.
Parts Used: Herb tops and flowers. Used as a tea, extract, oil and in tablet form.
Common Use: St. John's Wort has been used traditionally as an herbal treatment for anxiety and depression. It is an effective astringent that promotes wound healing and has antiviral properties that can counter herpes simplex, flu viruses and is being investigated as a treatment for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Note: If you are pregnant or lactating or taking anti-depressants like Prozac, check with your physician before taking St. John's Wort.
Herbs for the Prostate
When a man has an infection of the prostate gland, the symptoms may not be as localized as in the case of cystitis. Therefore, in addition to the urinary antiseptics used the systemic antimicrobial Echinacea can be used and Saw Palmetto should be considered. There is also the case of a swollen prostate gland and useful herbs may be
Bearberry, Couchgrass, Echinacea, Horsetail and Hydrangea.
The Urinary System
Patterns of disease in the urinary system
The urinary system, kidney, prostate, and bladder are prone to a range of problems that reflect those developing in the body as a whole. It is best to view urinary conditions as manifestations of systemic problems, which is really the way all specific diseases should be approached.
Infections
The urinary system is subject to a variety of infections. As with all infections anywhere in the body, these can only occur when the bodily defenses are not functioning correctly. Low resistance may be caused by such things an inadequate diet or chronic constipation; another common cause is the use of antibiotics. When antibiotics are used-for the treatments of either urinary problems or others-they inflict a physiological shock upon the system and disturb our inner ecology. After their use it is vital to help the body re-strengthen its defense system, which may be done by taking a Probiotic to renew the beneficial bacterial flora of the intestines and take additional vitamin C.
Varicose Veins
Lack of exercise, obesity, pregnancy and anything that reduces the circulation in the legs, such as tight clothing or sitting with crossed legs, can contribute to the development of varicose veins, a name for veins that have become enlarged, twisted and swollen. They can appear anywhere in the body, but are most commonly found in the legs, as the heart on its own is not strong enough to return the venous blood from the lower part of the body without the pumping action of the leg muscles, which only happens when these muscles are used and exercised. It is essential that adequate exercise be taken and that the feet are elevated when sitting for a long time.
Herbal medicine has a lot to offer in this condition. The diet should be rich in fruit and green vegetables. The herbs to be used in this condition should stimulate the peripheral circulation and thereby aid the flow of blood in the legs. Appropriate herbs are Cayenne, Ginger, Hawthorn Berries, and Horsechestnut. If there is any water retention the leads to swelling a diuretic such as Dandelion can be used.
[ View Products ]
[ Order Form ]
[ Common Use Herbs ]
[ Pet Corner ]
[ Home ]
|
