Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Fenugreek As Alternative Medicine

Fenugreek As Alternative Medicine

Fenugreek is used both as a spice and as an alternative medicine. Its leaves are used as medicine and the seeds as a spice. It is one of the oldest herbal plants with a history going back to the times of Ancient Greeks and Egyptians. Fenugreek is also widely used as alternative medicine in India, the Middle East and North Africa.

  1. It boosts milk supply in nursing women.
  2. It is a remedy for morning sickness.
  3. It is a treatment for digestive and gastrointestinal disorders such as gas, diarrhea, peptic ulcers, flatulence and loss of appetite.
  4. It lowers blood sugar levels and a remedy for diabetes.
  5. It is effective in treating high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
  6. It is a remedy for asthma, arthritis, abscesses and cramps.
  7. It is a powerful treatment for respiratory problems such as bronchitis, congestion, coughs and mucus in lung.
  8. It is used to treat migraines, fever and headaches.
  9. It helps to balance the female hormones and eases menstrual disorders such as cramps and period pains.
  10. It alleviates menopausal symptoms such as depression and night sweating.

Fenugreek is available as capsules, tea, tinctures and powder. This herb must not be taken for more than three months. It is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women and those on thyroid hormone drugs. Fenugreek can interfere with some prescribed drugs. Take this herb two hours before or after any medications. Some of the allergic effects are gas, nausea, breathing difficulty and diarrhea.

Fenugreek has been a favourite herb of the herbalists for centuries. It can also be used as a poultice to treat dandruff. In Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine it is even used to induce childbirth. Today fenugreek remains a very versatile alternative medicine for the treatment of a great variety of ailments.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Sage As Alternative Medicine

Sage As Alternative Medicine

Sage has a long history not only as a spice but also as an alternative medicine. Ancient Romans and Greeks used it to treat a range of ailments. During the Middle Ages it was used to treat epilepsy, liver disorders and fever. For more than 2000 years herbalists used sage to treat all sorts of health complaints such as mental illness and snakebite.

  1. It is an effective treatment for laryngitis, sore throats, bleeding gums and tonsillitis.
  2. It aids digestion and a treatment for gastrointestinal complaints.
  3. It regulates menstruation and gives relief to symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and night sweat.
  4. It is an antiperspirant to reduce excessive sweating.
  5. It is an effective remedy for muscle spasms, muscle cramps, stiff joints and backaches.

Sage is available as pills, dried, fresh, powder or extract. To make a tea brew 1 ½ teaspoons dried leaves or ten fresh leaves in a cup of boiling water. Standard dosage in extract liquid form is 1 teaspoon three times a day. Pregnant women must avoid taking sage in concentrated form. Taking sage as an additive in food is safe.

The International Herb Association in 2001 named sage as "Herb of the Year". Today many menopausal women are turning away from hormone replacement therapy and choose sage to gain relief from hot flashes and night sweats. Sage has the longest history of any herb used as alternative medicine and it is readily found in our kitchens.

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Gotu Kola As Alternative Medicine

Gotu Kola As Alternative Medicine

In Ayurvedic medicine gotu kola is the alternative medicine for various skin diseases. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. Gotu kola is used by both Indian and Chinese cultures to treat skin disorders such as tumors, leprosy, eczema, ulcers, sores, psoriasis, syphilis, burns and wounds.

  1. It is a brain tonic used to treat senility, epilepsy, premature aging and mental disorders.
  2. It is a treatment for high blood pressure.
  3. It is an energy booster and helps the body to recover from fatigue.
  4. It is a sedative for the treatment of anxiety, stress and insomnia.
  5. It purifies the blood and also improves blood circulation.
  6. It is effective in treating rheumatism and arthritis.
  7. It is a home remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery.
  8. It is used to treat menstrual disorders and as birth control by some females.

Gotu kola is available as capsules, tablets, tea, dried leaves, extracts and ointments. It is safe when the recommended dosage is adhered to. Standard dosage in extract form is 180 to 200 mg per day. The dosage in tea form is three cups of tea per day. Make a gotu kola tea by steeping 1 or 2 teaspoon of leaves in 150 ml of boiling water for at least ten minutes. However, this herb is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women and children.

In Australia it is known as the herb for arthritis. In China it is an herb for longevity. Due to its ability to improve circulation, it can benefit the sick or elderly who are bedridden. Herbalists often use gotu kola to combat arsenic and mushroom poisoning. Oil extract from this herb is used to stimulate hair growth for those suffering hair loss and balding. It is amazing how versatile an alternative medicine gotu kola is.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Fennel As Alternative Medicine

Fennel As Alternative Medicine

Since the times of ancient Egypt fennel has been used as an alternative medicine to treat various complaints especially digestive disorders. During Medieval times it was one of the most popular herbs for home remedy. This herb is of the same family as carrots, dill, parsley and coriander.

  1. It is a decongestant that helps to loosen phlegm.
  2. It is a treatment for skin disorders and conjunctivitis.
  3. It stimulates the production of milk in nursing mothers.
  4. It aids digestion and gives relief to indigestion, heartburn, spasm, wind, stomachaches and dyspepsia.
  5. It helps to break down kidney stones and also eases the pain.
  6. It can alleviate nausea, fever and pain.
  7. It is used as an ingredient in herbal medicine to balance hormones in menopausal women.
  8. Fennel tea bags put over eyelids can soothe inflammation and can improve eye sight.

Fennel is very safe for everyone even infants. It is often used to treat infant colic. Fennel can either be fed to the baby directly or taken by the nursing mother. This herb comes in the form of tinctures, capsules, tea and liquid extract. You can make a cup of fennel tea by steeping a teaspoon of the tea in 150 ml of boiling water for about 20 minutes. Standard dosage is three times a day of this brewed tea. Very often we are not aware that a common vegetable such as fennel is also a very valuable alternative medicine.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Valerian As Alternative Medicine

Valerian As Alternative Medicine

Valerian is an alternative medicine for insomnia that has been used since the times of Greek physician Hippocrates. This herb is derived from the valerian plant’s root. Today valerian is also effective for many other health complaints.

  1. It is a powerful remedy for heart palpitations, nervousness, hypertension, migraine and tension headaches.
  2. It is a treatment for spastic colitis and gastrointestinal pain.
  3. Very often it is used in place of Valium the prescription drug.
  4. It is an effective remedy for ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
  5. It is an excellent antibacterial facial wash.
  6. It is a tranquilliser to treat stress, anxiety and restlessness.

Valerian is available as tablets, capsules, teas and tinctures. It is safe and non-addictive over short term. This herb is recommended for use of between four to six weeks. Standard dosage is between 270 and 450 mg of valerian extract or 2 to 3 g of dried root. When used to give relief to tension and to aid sleep valerian is combined with lemon balm, skuppcap and passion flower. Nursing and pregnant women and children under 2 years old should avoid this herb. Valerian must not be taken with alcohol or medications for mental health and seizure. This herb can react with muscle relaxants, sedatives, narcotics and antihistamines. Side effects are rare when the dosage is adhered to. Some possible side effects are stomach problems, headache and dizziness.

Today valerian is accepted worldwide as an effective herbal sleeping remedy. In Europe it is used as a treatment for anxiety and sleeping disorders. In United Kingdom and Germany it is approved by the governments as sleep aid. Valerian is a much preferred effective and gentle alternative medicine for insomnia.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Barberry As Alternative Medicine

Barberry As Alternative Medicine

For over 2500 years barberry has been used as an alternative medicine for many ailments. Ancient Egyptians used it together with fennel seed to treat fevers and to prevent plague. The North American Indians used this herb to treat poor appetite and to strengthen the whole body. In China, Middle East, Europe and India barberry was also used for healing.

  1. It is a liver cleanser and a remedy for liver disorders.
  2. It is a treatment for gallstones and gallbladder inflammation.
  3. It is effective for digestive disorders such as gastrointestinal, diarrhea, constipation, dysentery and cholera.
  4. It is a useful remedy for skin infections such as Candida and psoriasis
  5. It is used to treat urinary tract infections, sore throat, sinusitis, bronchitis and nasal congestion
  6. It is a remedy for menstrual irregularities and period pain.
  7. It is a treatment for high blood pressure.

You can get barberry as capsules, tablets, tinctures, dried, teas and ointments. This herb is generally safe when no more than 500 mg a day is taken. Barberry is not recommended for nursing and pregnant women. When barberry is given to children, caution must be exercised. For digestive complaints this herb is often used in combination with licorice root, wild yam and dandelion.

Excessive consumption of barberry can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nosebleeds and kidney discomfort. Barberry can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics, antihistamines, blood thinning and blood pressure drugs. If you are diabetic refrain from taking this herb. Barberry is a favourite alternative medicine used by herbalists to treat hepatitis.

Friday, January 18, 2008

Thyme As Alternative Medicine

Thyme As Alternative Medicine

Thyme is known by most people as an herb in cooking but not as an alternative medicine. Ancient Greeks, Egyptians and Romans were familiar with the medicinal properties of this versatile herb. The Egyptians used thyme in their embalming and as an antiseptic for cleansing and purification. Its leaves and flowering tops are the parts used as medicine.

  1. It is used to expel threadworms, hookworms and roundworms from the body.
  2. It is a powerful remedy for digestive problems such as indigestion, colic, diarrhea, dyspepsia, lack of appetite, irritable bowel and gastritis.
  3. It gives relief to epilepsy, menstrual and stomach cramps.
  4. It is an effective treatment for respiratory tract and lung infections such as laryngitis, bronchitis, tonsillitis and coughs.
  5. It is a sedative to calm depression, anxiety, nervousness, melancholy, insomnia and nightmares.
  6. It is a powerful remedy for skin disorders such as bruises, thrush, cuts, deep wounds, dandruff, dental decay, athlete's foot, hair loss and tumors.
  7. It alleviates nausea, rheumatic aches and headaches.
  8. It is a stimulant for the thymus gland.

Thyme is available as tincture, oil, extract, tea, powder and leaves. You can also get this herb from local markets as dried or fresh leaves. It is safe and beneficial for anyone. In Jamaica a woman is given thyme tea after childbirth.

However, thyme oil must be for external use only or it may cause vomiting, dizziness or difficulties in breathing. When thyme is to be used on skin, it must be in a diluted form.

For lung problems and diarrhea an infusion is ideal. An infusion is also most effective as a gargle for sore throat. Mix same proportion of sage, red clover, rosemary with thyme for digestive disorders. To make a tea put two teaspoons of leaves and steep in a cup of boiling water for ten minutes.

Many herbalists consider thyme as a most useful herb. It is often used together with other treatments. In the Middle East there is even an herbal mixture known as Zaatar. Thyme is indeed a very useful alternative medicine that is found in our homes.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Beetroot As Alternative Medicine

Beetroot As Alternative Medicine

Beetroot has a long history as an alternative medicine in different cultures. To the Romans it was a treatment for constipation and fever. In Eastern Europe it has been used as a remedy for toothache and headache since 1500’s. It was fed as a juice or broth to the weak and aged in medieval England. For hundreds of years it was used to treat cancer in Europe.

  1. It keeps the body healthy by boosting the immune system.
  2. It eases haemorrhoids and constipation.
  3. This plant is a blood tonic and a treatment for anemia.
  4. It is a preventative for dementia, high blood pressure and Alzheimer's disease.
  5. This vegetable is a remedy for digestive disorders such as heartburn, acidity, gastritis and indigestion.
  6. It gives relief to headache and menstrual complaints.

You can take beetroot raw, cooked, boiled, steamed and as a juice or broth. It is safe with zero risks. However, due to its high sugar content it is not suitable for diabetics. As a decongestant it is best taken as a hot soup.

Beetroot juice is often recommended as an anti-cancer food by the alternative health industry. This is based on the cancer treatment success in the 1950’s by Hungarian physician Alexander Ferenczi. I must try to eat more beetroot because it is such a powerful alternative medicine.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Rosehip As Alternative Medicine

Rosehip As Alternative Medicine

Rosehip is a very common shrub throughout Europe that is used as an alternative medicine. Its oil is renowned for nourishing and healing of the skin. Rosehip oil is excellent for burns, scars, bruising, wrinkles, eczema, stretch marks, age spots, psoriasis, acne and pigmentation.

Studies have shown that Rosehip achieve better results than Glucosamine in reducing rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis pain.

  1. It is a blood cleanser and purifier.
  2. Rosehip tea is a kidney and gall bladder tonic.
  3. Rosehip eases menstrual disorders and pain.
  4. It gives relief to toothache, headache, nausea and sore gums.
  5. It is effective in relieving hay fever and asthma.

Rosehip comes as oil, tea, extract and powder. For kidney health drink three cups of tea daily. Use the powdered form to get pain relief from arthritis. You can mix Rosehip tea with other tea to create your own drink.

Rosehip is safe and non toxic and does not have any of the side effects of anti-inflammatory medications. It only takes around three weeks to feel the full effectiveness of Rosehip when used as an alternative medicine for arthritic pain.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Juniper Berry As Alternative Medicine

Juniper Berry As Alternative Medicine

Ancient Greeks, American Native Indians and the Arabs have used Juniper berry as an alternative medicine for centuries. It was used as a natural remedy for kidney, bladder and urinary tract infections. This herb is also useful in treating many other ailments.

  1. It is a powerful treatment for digestive complaints such as heartburn, flatulence, indigestion and belching.
  2. It is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and bloating.
  3. It can help with menstrual complaints, anger and anxiety.
  4. It is an effective treatment for arthritis, gout, rheumatism and diabetes.
  5. It is a blood purifier and cleanser that rid the body of toxins and impurities to promote good health.
  6. It is a topical anti-fungal for skin diseases.

Juniper berry is normally harmless and non toxic. However, those who have a weak kidney should avoid taking this herb. It is also not recommended for pregnant women.

Some of the side effects from excessive use of this herb are kidney pain, diarrhea, blood in urine, intestinal pain and palpitations. Juniper berry can increase the side effects of some diuretic medications. It also affects the absorption of vitamin supplements such as iron.

Juniper berry is available in tablets, capsules, tea bags and tea leaves. Standard dosage is 1000 to 2000 mg a day for a period of no more than 6 weeks. You can make a tea by steeping a teaspoon of tea leaves with 6 oz of boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes. Juniper berry is a very versatile alternative medicine but should be used with caution.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Pau D'Arco As Alternative Medicine

Pau D'Arco As Alternative Medicine

Pau D'Arco is a tree in South America with a long history as an alternative medicine. The inhabitants throughout the Amazon used this plant for a wide range of health problems.

  1. It is an herbal medicine for cancer.
  2. It is an antiviral used to treat flu, herpes, hepatitis and colds.
  3. It is an antibacterial for the treatment of vaginitis, sexually transmitted diseases, fungal and yeast infection.
  4. It is an immune system enhancer.
  5. With its blood purifying properties it is effective in treating skin diseases such as psoriasis, ulcers, wounds, boils, eczema and dermatitis.
  6. It is also an effective treatment for arthritis, parasites, diabetes, allergies, toothache, backache, fever, malaria, anemia and respiratory problems.
  7. It has the ability to lessen the side effects caused by antibiotics.


Pau D'Arco is a safe and non toxic herb. It is available as tablets, powdered bark, dried bark, capsules, tinctures and extracts. Pau D'Arco is generally consumed as a tea. It is a great blood detoxifier and cleanser. Because of the abilities of Pau D'Arco to ease pain caused by cancer the Argentina government gives this herb freely to cancer patients. Pau D'Arco is indeed a most valuable alternative medicine to keep at home.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Chamomile As Alternative Medicine

Chamomile As Alternative Medicine

Since the times of ancient Egypt Chamomile has been used as an alternative medicine for a variety of ailments. It is best known as a calming agent.

  1. The sedative properties of Chamomile give relief to stress related complaints.
  2. It calms cramps, upset stomach and menstrual cramps.
  3. Chamomile alleviates headache and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  4. It is an excellent topical treatment for skin problems such as burns, eczema and varicose veins.
  5. It is beneficial for liver disorders such as jaundice and swelling.
  6. Chamomile is a valuable treatment for digestive problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, gas, dyspepsia, travel sickness, colitis and diarrhea.

Chamomile is safe and mild enough for babies and young children. Nursing and pregnant women can take this herb without any risks. However, anyone who is allergic to ragweed must not use Chamomile. This herb belongs to the same family as ragweed.

Chamomile is available as tea, capsules, tablets, tea bags and liquid. Usually you drink it as a tea between meals three to four times daily. I have to start drinking Chamomile tea more often because I have a rather stressful job. Chamomile is indeed the alternative medicine for calming your nerves.


Sunday, January 6, 2008

Senna Leaf As Alternative Medicine

Senna Leaf As Alternative Medicine

Senna Leaf has been used as an alternative medicine for more than 3500 years. The ancient Egyptian physicians used this herb to treat constipation. Senna leaf is also used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine.

It is well known for its laxative properties and is the main component in herbal laxatives.

  1. It flushes toxins and impurities out from the body.
  2. It is beneficial to sufferers of anal fissures and haemorrhoids.
  3. It cleans and clears the bowel before ultrasound and scanning procedures.

Senna leaf is available as tablets, powder, tea and tinctures. Some people prefer to use the unprocessed pods or leaves to make a tea. To avoid any side effects always take the lowest effective amount. A cup of tea per day is enough to relieve constipation. It is not used as a mean to solve chronic constipation.

Senna leaf is not recommended for nursing and pregnant women and children under 12. Those who suffer from undiagnosed abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction must not take this herb. Senna leaf could react with medications for heart problems. Long term use of Senna leaf could weaken colon and cause dependency.

World Health Organization has given its approval for Senna leaf to treat short term constipation. Senna leaf is an effective alternative medicine but it must be used with great caution.

Friday, January 4, 2008

Pumpkin Seeds As Alternative Medicine

Pumpkin Seeds As Alternative Medicine

Pumpkin seeds, pepitas have been used as an alternative medicine for centuries by the Native American cultures. They are best known for the elimination of intestinal worms in humans. Scientific investigation has shown them to be effective in treating a wide range of ailments.

  1. Pumpkin seeds are used for the prevention of prostate cancer.
  2. They are a diuretic used to treat bladder irritation, kidney stones and urination problems.
  3. These seeds alleviate travel sickness, nausea and motion sickness.
  4. Pumpkin seeds with husks help nursing women to produce more milk.

Pumpkin seeds are safe with zero side effects. Pregnant women, children, those with liver problems or with other debilitating illnesses can take pumpkin seeds without risk. I love these seeds and eat them at least once a week. The best part is that these tasty pumpkin seeds are also a great alternative medicine.

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Honey As Alternative Medicine

Honey As Alternative Medicine

Honey has a long history as an alternative medicine. In the Koran of the Islamic religion Muhammad said that honey is a treatment for all ailments. For centuries it has been used as a remedy for coughs and sore throats.

  1. Honey is an antiseptic that is very effective in healing burns, scrapes, ulcers and wounds
  2. It is a powerful remedy for stomach ulcers and many gastric problems such as duodenitis
  3. It is a treatment for coughs in children and is more effective than non-prescription cough medicines.
  4. It is an antibacterial and a powerful topical treatment for diabetic ulcers.

Do not give honey to little children of less than 12 months old. There is the remote risk of botulism (a type of food poisoning). However, honey is safe for older children and all adults. Honey is an alternative medicine that is readily available in our homes today.