Herbal Drinks

Allspice herbal tea

2011-11-23T07:11:00.001-08:00

It is the fruit of an evergreen tree native to the West Indies and parts of Central and South America. It name derives from the fact that to tastes like a combination of cinnamon, pepper, juniper and clove.

Allspice is aromatic, stimulant and carminative. It acts on the gastrointestinal tract and is usually added to drinks, tonics and purgatives for flavoring. The spice may also be added for flatulent indigestion and hysteria.

Allspice can be used alone or in combination with other herbs allspice eases flatulence and dyspeptic pain.

To use in tea blends, crush or grind the seeds and do not boil for than five minutes. This preserves the spice’s volatile essential oils, which would otherwise escape during boiling.

As a healing spice, allspice has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. Oil from allspice berries is an effective pain reliever and may promote digestive enzyme activity.
Allspice herbal tea

Ajwain drinks

2011-09-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

Trachyspermum copticum, commonly known as ajwain, ajowan caraway, carom seeds. Ajwain seed are tiny, it looks like miniature cumin seeds and has similar aroma, yet very strongly flavored.

Although primarily grown and used in the Indian subcontinent, is also found in Iran, Egypt and Afghanistan.

Ajwain seed are used to help cure and prevent sinus related problems. Normally ajwain seed to be boiled in water and the water are use for tea. The dose for ajwain tea is half a teaspoon in half a liter of water. Honey can be added to the water and drink it while inhaling as much as of the steam as possible.

Ajwain is highly value in India as gastrointestinal medicine and as an antiseptic. Other than drink as a tea, ajwain is combined with salt and hot water and take after meals to relieve bowel pain or colic, and to improve digestion.

Ajwain excels in relieving gas and many people said that a tea made from ajwain seeds is among the best carminative remedies.

Ajwain help cure fever, stomachaches, and problem created by overeating. The provide strength to the liver and spleen and cure dysentery.
Ajwain drinks

Peppermint tea

2011-08-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

The Mentha genus comprises an incredibly rich diversity of species, which originated in Europe but have now spread all over the world.

Peppermint tea is considered the queen of digestive herbs,. The peppermint tea is fresh domestic peppermint.

It is a general stimulant. A string cup of peppermint tea will act more powerfully on the system than any liquor stimulant, quickly diffusing itself though the system and bringing back to the body its natural warmth and glow without the usual tendency to relapse.

Peppermint is available in tea bags or as a loose tea. The tea may be sweetened with sugar or honey, or in the cases of diabetics and obese patients with saccharine or cyclamates.

Peppermint tea is a good substitute for caffeine. It will help alleviate headaches during caffeine withdrawal. It is delicious and strengthens heart muscle.

Peppermint tea aids in digestion after meals, and sipped cold, it can help to relieve nausea, headache, heartburn or gas.

Pregnant women should ingest no more than one or two cups daily of peppermint tea. Nursing mothers should avoid large amounts of mint, which can dry breast milk, although small amounts help treat colic.
Peppermint tea

Goldenseal

2011-07-03T09:01:00.001-07:00

Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) a member of the buttercup family is a commonly used herbal tea. It is widely used as an antiseptic to stop bleeding, as an anti-inflammatory for the mucous membranes, for nasal congestions and as a general tonic.

Goldenseal has a long history of use by Native Americans, especially by the Cherokee for the treatment of gastrointestinal and skin disorders.

It use was popular among European settlers during the mid-19th century and this herb was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia.

Goldenseal can also stimulate IgM antibody production. The dried rhizomes and roots of goldenseal contain the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine, which have antibacterial properties.

Berberine provides both the yellow color and bitter taste to goldenseal roots and is reported to be effective against influenza viruses.

Because the alkaloids are poorly absorbed in humans, goldenseal tears are not expected to achieve berberine and hydrastine blood concentration high enough to be effective.

Goldenseal is a small plant with a single hairy stem. It has two five-lobed, jagged leaves, small flowers and raspberry-like fruit. The bitter tasting rhizome or root, is a bright yellow growing wild in rich, shady soil in the northern US, but is now grown mostly on farms.

Only the hardiest taste buds can tolerate the bitter taste of this tea. Adding sweetener will made it less effective.
Goldenseal

Water for Brewing Herbal teas

2011-05-22T06:35:00.001-07:00

According to Xu Cishu, a tea expert of the Ming Dynasty, tea’s finest quality can be brought into play with the help of water. Making a good brew requires good water, as it is the water that brings out the bouquet of the tea leaves.

Experts in the Qing Dynasty even regarded water as more important than tea itself.

When making teas always start with fresh, cold water. Since herbal tea is an important aspect do healing, use pure water: distilled, spring, filtered or from a well.

Water from the mountain springs was better than water taken from a waterfall.

Distilled water is the best medium for drawing out the therapeutic properties of the plants, as it is a more neutral medium.

Always use fresh water for brewing tea. Tap water should be avoided since it contains chemicals that can alter the taste of a brew.

Do not reboil water that has already boiled once, since this reduce oxygen levels and can affect the taste of tea.

It is not recommended using distilled water that has been stored in plastic jugs, because the plastic contains xenoestrogens, substances that mimic the effects of the hormone estrogen, which may be a carcinogenic risk.

The plastic also imparts a plastic flavor to the water.

Never steep tea in plastic or aluminum. The brewing best of fine tea is best done in china, glass or stainless steel.
Water for Brewing Herbal teas

Caraway Tea

2011-03-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

A caraway tea can be made by crushing one tea spoonful of seeds per cup of boiling water and then pouring the water over the seeds.

A spring of mint can be added, steep then strain and drink with honey if desired.

Caraway tea was given by monks in medieval times a s treatment for fear, anxiety, grief and terror and for spasms and pain, and they grew the precious little plant in their cloister gardens.

A tea made from one spoon teaspoon of seeds in one cup of boiling water is an excellent digestive.

Caraway tea is aloes used as a means of stimulating the formation of mother’s milk.

Caraway tea can be used for easing colic, painful digestion, bloating and a feeling of uncomfortable fullness after eating. It can treat flatulence and diarrhea.
Caraway Tea

Mulberry Tea

2011-01-03T16:58:00.001-08:00

Recently tea made of mulberry lave has become popular in some countries.

Mulberry leaf is rich in gamma-aminobutylic acid, effective against high blood pressure and in alanine, effective giants hangovers.

The processed of mulberry tea is similar to that of green tea, which includes the procedures of leaf harvesting and washing, chopping, steaming, rubbing, baking, cooling, sieving and storage.

Mulberry tea is drink in the same way as green tea. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that this beverage nourishes the kidneys, clears heat and improves eyesight.

It also has a whitening affects that can definitely boost our skin.
Mulberry Tea

German Chamomile

2010-09-19T08:03:00.001-07:00

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is marketed in Europe to treat several ailments. It has been used for centuries to settle an upset stomach, to soothe aches and pains, and to heal bruises.

Chamomile was recommended by Dioscorides as a cure for fevers as early as 900 BC and was known to the ancient Egyptians who praised it for its ability to cure “ague”.

It was one of the nine sacred herbs of Saxons who used it as a calming remedy and to treat stomach problems.

Chamomile has been used effectively both internally and externally for its anti-inflammatory, anti spasmodic, and antibacterial properties.

Chamomile tea tea is to relieve gastrointestinal spasms, indigestion, peptic ulcers, and menstrual cramps. Drink chamomile tea also liberally to help eases of irritation and nervousness.

To be effective, chamomile tea should be made from the fresh herb. Rinses or gargles are use to tract inflammations and irritations of the mouth, gums and respiratory tract.

The brewed tea also has been used to help those who suffer from insomnia and aiding in stimulating appetite and improving digestion.

The blue oil obtained from chamomile contains numerous terpenoids and flavonoids that provide the anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.

The major activity of chamomile is believed to be provided by alpha-bisabolol, which comprises approx 10% to 15% of the essential oil.

Tea can be brewed using dried leaves and flowerheads. Make tea with one teaspoon crushed dried leaves and flowerheads to one cup of boiling water, allow to steep for five minutes. Strain into a cup and serve.

The tea taste bittersweet with a very gentle floral edge, but most of the bitterness disappears in dilution, leaving a wildflower boney aftertaste.
German Chamomile

What is Falernum?

2010-08-04T02:58:00.001-07:00

What is Falernum?
Falernum is a sweet syrup used in tropical and Caribbean drinks. It contains flavors of almond, ginger and/or cloves and lime.

It is used in cocktails in a manner similar to orgeat syrup. The syrup form is usually non-alcoholic.

In a mixed drinks of rum punch is made with four parts water, three parts rum, two parts of falernum, and one part time juice – otherwise known as “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak.”

Falernum was a discovery of Bajan Henry Parkinson who combined ground almonds, brown sugar, clove powder, and ginger root, with crushed limes.

Parkinson’s descendent, Arthur Stansfield, registered it in 1934.

Corn and oil is a mixture of rum and falernum.
What is Falernum?

Anise Tea

2010-07-28T00:34:00.000-07:00

Anise Tea
Anise tea is beneficial in treating frigidity and impotence and for the easing of the menstrual cycle.

The ancient Greeks used aniseeds and fresh flowers for pain relief and recorded that aniseed warms, dries, dissolves, facilities breathing, provokes urine, eases thirst and relieves pain- and modern research verifies this.

Make a tea of 2 teaspoons of aniseeds, pour over this 1 cup of boiling water leave it to stand for four to five minutes, give it a good stir, then either strain and sip slowly, or chew the seeds well with the tea - they are delicious.

Alternatively, make tea of fresh leaves and flowers by steeping ¼ of the leaves and flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for three to four minutes.

Strain, sweeten with a touch of honey, if liked and sip slowly.

The cooled tea made of either the fresh flowers and leaves or the seeds, can also be strained and used as a lotion or wash for oily skin, enlarged pores and acne and in spray bottle misted over the face will help to freshen, brighten and remove oiliness and redness, and to give an instant moisturizing effect to a lot flushed face.
Anise Tea

Effective Sedation

2010-06-27T19:21:00.000-07:00

Effective Sedation
Several herbal teas are available that provide some relief from anxiety and insomnia. The dried rhizome and roots of valerian (Valerianae radix) is an example of an herb that can be effectively used to treat anxiety and insomnia.

Valerian has been used as a mild tranquilizer and sleep aid for more than 1000 year. It reduces sleep latency and wake time after sleep onset occurs.

A tea prepared from a teaspoonful of dried rhizome and roots can be safely taken several times daily. There have been no reports of side effects or contradictions to its use.

Because of its mild sedative action, passionflower (Passiflora incarnate) is widely used in Europe to treat nervous anxiety and restlessness and sleep disturbances.

Pharmacological studies show that passionflower acts as a sedative, anxiolytic and antispasmodic.

Its sedative and anxiety-relieving activity is possible due to several substances that may act synergistically.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has pleasant tasting citrus-scented leaves that can be brewed onto a delicious tea. Melissa is used in Europe as a sedative to treat insomnia caused by nervous conditions and to treat digestive disorders.

The active principles of lemon balm are found in the terpenoid-rich oil of the leaves – citronellal, geraniol, linalool, citral, limonene, caryophyllene, and eugenol.

Mixtures of the above herbs (valerian, lemon balm. and passionflower) are often available as an aid to treat anxiety and sleeplessness.

Hops are the fruits of the vine Humulus lupulus. Hop teas are commonly used to relieve insomnia, restlessness, nervous tension, sleep disturbance, and other nervous conditions.

The active principles of hops include the essential oil components (including humulene, mycrene, beta-caryophyllene and farnesene) and the resinous bitter principles (including humulone and lupulone).

During storage the latter two compounds degrade to 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol, which has CNS depressing activity.
Effective Sedation

Chrysanthemum beneficial: Ulcerative Colitis and Hypertension

2010-05-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

Chrysanthemum beneficial: Ulcerative Colitis and Hypertension
Chrysanthemum water extract decreases the contents of two adherent glycoproteins, CD44 and CD62p.

These glycoproteins are responsible for the adherence and communication between cells.

Their elevated levels are believed to be closely related to those in ulcerative colitis.

The flavonoids of chrysanthemum have been shown to increase blood circulation in experimental animals, suggesting a potential role in reducing hypertension.

Several fractions from the ethanol extract also showed significant anti-myocardial ischemia and antiarrhythmia activities in rats.
Chrysanthemum beneficial: Ulcerative Colitis and Hypertension

Alfalfa Tea

2010-04-26T18:54:00.001-07:00

Alfalfa Tea
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) tea comes from the same plant that begins as an alfalfa sprout.

The taste is best described as grassy but pleasant. It is a rich source of minerals an vitamins, including iron, phosphorus potassium, calcium and vitamins A, C, B1, B2, D and K.

It is used as a tea to drink while fasting and for diseases where the body is in need of nutrients. Sometimes alfalfa may be helpful in treating arthritis and colitis.

Alfalfa, probably a native of Persia, has been in cultivation for more than 3300 years. Today it is a mainstay of modern agriculture.

The most important forage crop in the United Sates, alfalfa provides the highest yield of protein per acre of any livestock crop.

The tea from seeds is prepared by cooking them in an enamel pan, with kid on for half hour. After cooking, it should be strained, squeezing or pressing seeds dry. It should be allowed to cool and after adding honey to taste put in the refrigerator.

Cold or hot water should be added to taste before use.
Alfalfa Tea

The Benefits of Honey

2010-04-09T05:52:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of Honey
Both lemon and honey can be added to most of the herbal teas. Both are hugely important in the building of health, and honey is the best natural sweetener ever known to humankind.

Honey contains a mass of mineral slats, amino acids, vitamins and natural, easily digested sugars.

Honey is a sleep inducer and a natural disinfectant and painkiller.

It is surprisingly often used as a country remedy spread onto open sores, scratches and grazes – many a horse has had a honey wound dressing that the vet has recommended.

It has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and it helps to ease diarrhea, asthma and sore throats.

The old fashion sage tea with honey and lemon is still one of the most popular sore-throat treatments today. Honey is a wonderful unwinding, calming, soothing and relaxing addition to the herbal teas.
The Benefits of Honey

Ginseng drinks

2010-03-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

Ginseng drinks
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) is sold as a tea , a tea ingredient, or as a powdered beverage additive. It is marketed as a tonic to combat feelings of lassitude and debility to boost energy and enhance endurance, and to help increase concentration.

Ginseng is also considered an adaptogen to help an individual cope with stress.

The major active ingredients of ginseng root are a group of approximate 20 saponins called ginsenosides.

Different ginseng fractions may have conflicting effects. For example, some components may stimulate the central nervous system and other may have a sedative action.

Experiments reveal that ginsenosides have anti-inflammatory activity, enhance immune activity and inhibit blood clotting.

Earlier reports from various researchers show that Asian ginseng extract increased mental alertness and concentration, increased work efficiency and shortened reaction times, and enhanced adaptation to environmental stresses.

Most of these studies were not placebo control or double blind. More recent definitive studies provide little convincing evidence that ginseng affects physical or mental performance or general well being.

The popularity of ginseng as a general tonic to improve health and to increase energy, stamina and endurance is reflected in its enormous annual sales.

It has been suggested that for effectiveness ginseng be used no longer than 3 months, then discontinued for 2 to 4 weeks.

Ginseng may also lack effectiveness because it content vary considerably.
Ginseng drinks

Coriandrum sativum

2010-02-24T00:19:00.000-08:00

Coriandrum sativum
The history of this herb contains many more interesting facts, and they have accumulated over a great period of time, for coriander has been cultivated for more than 3,000 years.

Seeds of coriander have been found among the funeral offerings in ancient Egyptian tombs.

From Egypt, in all probability the herbs came into use by the ancient Hebrews, who made it one of the bitter herbs involved in the ritual of Passover.

This herbs has had some potent properties assigned to it over the years. It does have a bold flavor and fragrance, but as a medicine it’s pretty slight stuff.

People drink infusions of coriander seeds or chew on the seeds themselves to soothe upset stomachs or aid digestion.

The fruit contain a volatile oil responsible for the actions coriander produces but unfortunately those actions aren’t very effective.
Coriandrum sativum

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat

2010-02-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat
Different form its use as an attractive flower or horticulture purposes in Europe, chrysanthemum of the Composite family, in particular its flower has been used as a traditional medicine ins several Asian countries, such as China, Korea and Japan for several centuries.

The flower of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat, owing to its broad pharmacological effect as well as its fragrance, is also used as a beverage - chrysanthemum tea.

C. morifolium Ramat is widely distributed in most habitats of China as well as Korea and Japan,

In China, it is cultivated mainly in Zhejiang province along the Yangtze River.

Although the components of chrysanthemum may vary slightly according to the different cultivation environments, the flowers are processed using a similar method.

The plants are usually grown in early spring and the flowers harvested in autumn of each year.

After steam treatment the flowers are dried under the sun and then packed into an airtight plastic bag to prevent absorption of moisture.

New technology, such as microwave sterilization and drying, has been used to enhance the production process and improve quality.
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat

Drying Herbs

2010-01-22T00:47:00.000-08:00

Drying Herbs
Drying Herbs makes them available year round. When herbs are dried, their cell walls break down, which enables the properties of the plants to be released once the herbs are rehydrated.

Dry herbs in the shade in a warm, well-ventilated area and they may be dried on a nylon or stainless steel screen, in a shallow box, or loosely in a paper bag.

Some have found that drying herbs in a paper bag in the backseat of their car to be very affective.

Herbs also can be tied in small bunches and string them up in an attic or warm room to dry.

Most herbs dry in four to seven days. Hen leaves and flowers crumble between fingers, which is a good indication they are dry enough; if they bend and remain flexible, they probably still contain moisture that needs to evaporate.

To test a root for dryness, slice into it in a couple of places; if the root is dry to the touch in its center, it’s ready to be stored.

Storing undried herbs in a glass jar is likely to result in mold growth.

Another method to test for dryness is to seal a sample of the herb in a small, dry glass jar. If droplets of moisture appear on the lid, the herbs moisture is still too high and the drying process must be resumed.
Drying Herbs

Herbal Beverage as Stimulants

2010-01-04T05:10:00.000-08:00

Herbal Beverage as Stimulants
There are several commonly consumed herbal beverages that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS).

Guarana (made from the crushed seed of the Brazilian shrub Paullinia cupana and mate (the dried leaves of Ilex paraguariensis) are Latin American herbs with stimulatory properties, due to high levels of caffeine they contain – approx 3.5% and 2% caffeine, respectively.

A typical 6 oz cup of mate may contain 25-50 mg of caffeine. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) may contain approx 35 – 65 mg of caffeine per cup. Whereas lemon-flavored Lipton green tea contain approx 15 mg caffeine per 12 oz can.

Each of these beverages provides substantially less caffeine than coffee, which provide approx 60-130 mg/cup.

Ephedra spp. (Ma Huang) is commonly used for the treatment of respiratory ailments such as bronchial asthma. Ephedra contains the alkaloid stimulant ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.

Because of its adrenergic properties, ephedrine has been widely used as a nasal decongestant and to treat bronchial asthma.

Ephedra, combined with caffeine, is also promoted for use as a diet aid to help in weight loss programs and is also sold as an energy boosting formula. Ephedra can raise both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and the heat rate.
Herbal Beverage as Stimulants

Yoghurt and health benefits

2009-12-04T01:31:00.000-08:00

Yoghurt and health benefits
Yoghurt is produced from the milk of cow, buffalo, goat, sheep, yak and other mammals. In industrial production of yoghurt cow’s milk is the predominant starting material.

To get custard like consistency, cow’s milk is generally fortified with non fat dry milk, milk protein concentrated, or condensed skim milk.

Varieties of yoghurt available include plain, fruit flavored, whipped, drinking type, smoked, dried, strained, and frozen.

The popularity of yoghurt has increased due to its perceived health benefits.

Health promoting attributes of consuming yoghurt containing live and active cultures are well documented.

The trend of using prebiotics and probiotic cultures in the manufacture of fermented milks and yoghurts is supported by clinical trials.

The benefits effects documented in the numerous studies and reviews include prevention of cancer, reduction in diarrhea associated with travel, antibiotic therapy, and rotavirus, improvement of gastrointestinal health, enhancement of immunity of the host, amelioration of lactose intolerance symptoms, protection from infections caused by food borne microorganisms, control of vaginitis, and vaccine adjuvant effects.
Yoghurt and health benefits

Milk, Yoghurt and Cheese

2009-11-05T17:01:00.001-08:00

Milk, Yoghurt and Cheese
Dairy products have an important role to play in the diet of a growing kid.

Here’s what you need to know in order to ensure that your child receives the recommended number of servings from the milk, yoghurt and cheese group on a regular basis.

Milk is an excellent source of vitamin D and calcium – the nutrients needed to build healthy bones and strong teeth.

Although vitamin D can be obtained through sun exposure, increased use of sunscreens limits the amounts of vitamin D that can be obtained from the sun.

Consequently, it’s more important than ever to ensure that your child’s diet contains vitamin D-rich foods, especially milk.

Although it’s okay to offer your child chocolate milk on occasion, don’t let it replace the regular milk in her diet.

Chocolate milk is such higher in sugar than regular milk.

If your child relay enjoys her chocolate milk, dilute with regular milk so that she’s not getting quite as much sugar.

Chocolate milk is much more nutritious that soda pop, however, so if you want to give her the choice of ordering something other than regular milk at a fast food restaurant, chocolate milk is a healthy choice.

Limit your child’s use of processed cheese slice and spread, as these products are much higher in salt than natural cheeses.

Don’t get in the habit of serving ice cream and frozen yoghurt on a regular basis because they tend to contain a lot of fat and sugar.

Flavored yogurts tend to be quite high in sugar.

You can get a lot of mileage out of a small serving of flavored yogurt by letting your child use it as dip for fruit slices.

Or, if you prefer buy plain yogurt and add your own flavoring and such as some fresh fruit, vanilla flavoring, and so on.
Milk, Yoghurt and Cheese

Antioxidant Activities of Chrysanthemum

2009-10-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

Antioxidant Activities of Chrysanthemum
The antioxidant properties of flavonoids extracted from chrysanthemum could have been responsible for the broad pharmacological effects of chrysanthemum.

It was found that water extract showed significant antioxidant activities in the linoleic acid system in vitro.

The inhibitor rate against peroxidation of linoleic acid was much higher than that of antioxidant alpha-tocopherol.

In the liposome model system, the extract showed significant inhibitory activity against peroxidation of lecithin, suggesting that the extract may reduce lipid peroxidation and play a role in protecting against damage to the cell membrane.

The water extract of chrysanthemum also showed significant direct inhibitory effects on various free radicals.

Similar to other antioxidants chrysanthemum extract has been shown to be an electron donor with strong reducing power.

The significant correlation between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity indicates that the polyphenolic directly to the antioxidant activity of the extract.

It was demonstrated that flavonoids, a subgroup of phenolic compounds, were responsible for the antioxidant activity of the chrysanthemum extract, which can scavenge reactive oxygen radicals such as hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals.

The flavonoids can also be absorbed into cell membrane and hence protect the cells from the damage of free oxygen radicals.

The overall observations seem to indicate that the chemical reducing property may contribute to the free radical scavenging activities of chrysanthemum extract.
Antioxidant Activities of Chrysanthemum

Tea bags consumption and history

2009-09-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

Tea bags consumption and history
A New York tea merchant named William Sullivan invented tea bags accidently in 1904.

He had the idea of sending samples of tea to customers in hand sewn silk bags rather than in a tin.

He was soon flooded with orders for the convenient tea bags.

Making herbal blends from scratch might not be everyone’s cup of tea and for that reason, tea bags are a welcome convenience.

Although true tea aficionados shun them, tea bags can make an acceptable cup of tea.

They’re also readily available and provide convenience for those with a go-go-go lifestyle for new comers to the world of herbal teas, and for those who are traveling or dining in restaurants.

If your carry a few wrapped tea bags in your purse, briefcase, or backpack, you have only to request, “Hot water, please’” when you are on the road or in places where herbal teas are not available.

Happily, herbal teas are now more available than ever. Yet in order for the herbs to be put into tea bags, they are ground into a very fine cut that exposes the surfaces areas of the herbs thousands of times, thus allowing flavorful and therapeutic essential oils to evaporate more quickly.

When the tea bags sit for many months before being used, the herbs they contain lose potency. Many companies compensate for this loss by adding natural or unnatural flavorings to the herbs.
Tea bags consumption and history

Special Herbs for Women

2009-09-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

Special Herbs for Women
Some women may use herbal teas during pregnancy to get away from caffeine-containing beverages.

However, because of the potentially embryotoxic, teratogenic and abortifacient effects of some herbal teas, pregnant women are advised to exercise moderation in their use of herbal beverages.

Before using any herbal tea, a pregnant woman should first consult with her physician.

Leonurus cardiaca L
A tea made from the above ground parts of motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca L.), a member of the mint family, has been used to treat amenorrhea and irregular menstruation and to stimulate uterine activity.

Motherwort contains the alkaloids stachydrine and leonurine, as well as flavonoids, iridoids, tannins and terpenoids.

Extracts of motherwort have shown antispasmodic, cardiotonic , hypotensive and sedative properties.

Motherwort is not recommended during pregnancy.

Capsella bursa-pastoris
Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is a member of the mustard family and grows as a weed in backyards, farmlands and roadside nationwide.

Its name derives from the purse shape of the seedpots of the plant.

The above ground parts can be prepared into capsules, tablets or a tea.

The plant has been historically used for its antihemorrhagic action. It is used in Europe for the symptomatic treatment of nosebleeds and mild menorrhagia and metrorrhagia.

Vitex agnus castus
The fruit of the chaste tree (Vitex agnus castus) has been used for centuries for menstrual difficulties.

In one study, 93% of patients treated with vitex experienced alleviation or elimination of PMS symptoms. Such as breast tenderness, bloating, irritability, headache, anger and depression.

Rubus idaeus
Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is commonly used by women to shorten labor and facilitate an easier childbirth.

Red raspberry contains a compound that produces more regular uterine contraction; hence raspberry is widely use as a childbirth aid.

Australia study found raspberry leaves safe and effective for shortening the second stage of labor.

The study also indicated that women ingesting raspberry leaves might be less likely to experience premature rupture of their membranes or require a Caesarean section, forceps or vacuum birth that the control group.

Red raspberry is also used as a mouthwash and gargle for sore throats due to its astringent properties.
Special Herbs for Women

Beneficial Effects of Chrysanthemum: Eye Irritation

2009-08-10T03:14:00.000-07:00

Beneficial Effects of Chrysanthemum: Eye Irritation
Volatile oil and flavonoids are believed to be main active components in Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.

Flavonoids, in the forms of glycoside derivatives, are more polar than volatile oil and hence are readily dissolved in water. This is partly the reason that most of the studies in chrysanthemum have been focused on its flavonoids.

Hot water extraction of chrysanthemum has been reported to show inhibitory activity against rat lens aldose reductase.

Flavones and flavones glycosides were found to be active components responsible for this observation, among which elaggic acid showed the highest inhibitory activity.

Elevated concentration of sorbitol is responsible for eye irritation.

Aldose reductase, along with coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), catalyzes the reduction of glucose to sorbitol.
Beneficial Effects of Chrysanthemum: Eye Irritation

The Art of Tea

2009-06-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

The Art of Tea
Nothing warms the body and soul like holding a fragrant, steaming cup of herbal tea, inhaling its subtle scents as you slowly sip.

Tea is among the most ancient, basin and simple methods of healing and nourishing body, mind and spirit.

As science has proven time and again, plants are endowed with important nutrients and potent healing compounds.

Some of those elements come from the raw earth: for example, a plant grown in calcium - or iron-rich soil draws those elements into its own body.

When you brew plants in water, the resulting beverage – herbal tea – is imbued with those constituent, carrying them into the body, where they are quickly absorbed.

Even better, teas are very easy to prepare, inexpensive and delicious.

Plant constituents that release their properties into water include carbohydrate protein, enzymes, mucilage, pectins, saponins and polysaccharides.

Essential oils are soluble but evaporate easily gums and tannins are partially soluble. All can play a role in improving and supporting human health.

Even though there is a wide array of medicinal herbal preparations, including capsules, tablets and tincture, drinking herbal tea offers unique benefits that should not be overlooked.

Teas are rapidly absorbed in the body, Also teas, are flavorful and aromatic. When we drink herbal tea the brain is soothed and nourished by aromas inhaled though the nose and the tasty sensory messages received by the tongue.

Another important benefit of drinking herbal tea is that it gives us an opportunity in our busy day to take a bit of time out for ourselves.

Taking tome out to taste and savor herbal teas provides an opportunity for reflection. Rather than swallowing a couple tasteless capsules with a gulp of water as we run out the door, we can use our time drinking herbal tea to think about intention - nourishing nervous sytem strengthening nervous system.
The Art of Tea

Diuretics

2009-05-17T23:42:00.000-07:00

Diuretics
Numerous teas and herbal preparations have also been widely used as diuretics to treat premenstrual syndrome and other conditions.

Extracts of goldenrod (solidago sp.), juniper (Juniperus communis), parsley (peroselinum), bearberry or uva ursi (Arcstostaphylos uva-ursi), fennel(Foeniculum vulgare) and stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) are modestly effective diuretics that may be used safely in moderation, either singly or in various combinations.

Of these, goldenrod is probably the most effective diuretic. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity.

The active constituents of goldenrod include flavonoids, tannins and saponins. There are no reports of adverse reactions from its use.

The dried ripe berries of the juniper tree (J.communis) function as a diuretic and also provide antiseptic activity for the urinary tract.

Juniper’s diuretic effect results from its content of terpinen-4-ol, which increases the glomerular filtration rate in the kidney.

One must exercise caution when using juniper berries, because large amounts may produce kidney damage characterized by albuminuria or renal hematuria.

Juniper tea also is also contraindicated during pregnancy.

Stinging nettle (U. dioica) is feared by many because its leaves and stems are covered with tiny hairs that inject formic acid and release histamine when touched.

However, the stinging irritant is tamed by cooking or drying. The dried leaves of U. dioica possess diuretic activity, possibly due to its high flavonoids content.

Parsley is widely used in salads and soups as a garnish. The leaves and roots of parsley are helpful for reducing urinary tract inflammations.

Bearberry or uva ursi is also effective against urinary tract infections as a result of its antibacterial action.

Its antiseptic action results from the presence of two phenolic glycosides.

Juice made form cranberry also provides protection against the colonization of Escherichia coli bacteria in urinary tract infections.
Diuretics

Medicinal Uses of Chicory

2009-04-13T21:51:00.000-07:00

Medicinal Uses of Chicory
Chicory has a mildly taste and the root is much the same medicinally as the root of the dandelion, Taraxacum officinale, having a cleansing action in the liver, stomach and kidneys and the whole urinary tract.

As a treatment for gout, rheumatic conditions and general aches and pains of the joints, chicory was once considered to be a herb particularly appropriate for the elderly and was also used as a gentle laxative for children.

A tea of leaves and flowers – ¼ cup mixed leaves and flowers with 1 cup boiling water poured over it and left to stand for 5 minutes, sweetened with a touch of honey if desired – is the way to treat any of these ailments and usually no more than 1 cup a day will do the trick.

The tea is slightly laxative and safe for children, made as a standard brew and ½ a cup given at a time to children under 10 years of age.

Mothers in medieval France and England grew chicory in their cottage gardens, which they used for purging and for flushing out of bladder and today’s research verifies these uses.

It literally washes out bladder and colon, clears infections, acts as a strong tonic and increases the flow of bile.

Around AD 23-79, chicory juice mixed with strong vinegar and a little rose oil was used to treat headaches.

Today doctors find that a tea made of the flowers and a leaf or two, aids, digestion, clears toxins from the body and flushes the kidneys.

If that same tea is used as a wash or added to the bath during an attack of cystitis, it soothes any external discomfort and itch gently.
Medicinal Uses of Chicory

Lotus Root Tea

2009-04-04T23:07:00.001-07:00

Lotus Root Tea
Lotus root tea is especially helpful in relieving coughs and dissolving mucus in the lungs.

To prepare it squeeze the juice from a half cup of freshly grated lotus root into a pot with one cup of water.

Simmer until the liquid thickens, add a pinch of sea salt, and drink it hot.

If fresh lotus root is unavailable, dried lotus root can be used instead.

To make tea form the dried root, add 2 tablespoons of lotus root to 1 cup of water.

Bring to a boil, reduce the flame, and simmer for fifteen minutes.

Add of sea salt or a dash of tamari, and drink it hot.
Lotus Root Tea

Physiological and Therapeutic Effects of Tea

2009-03-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

Physiological and Therapeutic Effects of Tea
In China, from Tang Dynasty to Qing Dynasty (618-1911 A.D.), there had existed a great number of books contributed to tea. Those included mainly 3 categories, namely books in herbal medicines, tea manuals and general historic publications.

Tea was repeated to exhibit 24 kinds of physiological and therapeutic effects, such as causing less sleep, calming down, clearing sight, relieving headache, dispelling thirst, dissipating fever, detoxification, helping digestion, reducing obesity, diuresis, as a pectoral for chest disease, invigorating, strengthening teeth, and more.

In addition to the probable applications as medicine, tea, used as a daily beverage has made great contributions to human health in at least two major aspects.

Firstly, tea drinking changes the habit of how people consume water.

In ancient times, when people felt thirsty they would simply drink natural, unprocessed water that might contain pathogenic microbes.

Since the adoption of tea drinking, people had used boiling water to make tea infusion. In fact this practice helped people avoid a variety of infectious disease.

Secondly tea appears to be a good substitute for alcoholic beverages. This people who very much enjoyed tea drinking might avoid alcohol over consumption that causes severe damage to the human body.
Physiological and Therapeutic Effects of Tea

Toxicities of Herbal Teas

2009-03-22T05:12:00.000-07:00

Toxicities of Herbal Teas
Because manufacturers are not required to list potential toxicities on the labels, consumers may unknowingly exposed to harmful substances.

More than 30 herbal teas contain substances that cause serious toxicities, including liver, GI tract, nervous system, and circulatory system disorders.

Chaparral, an herbal preparation made from the leaves of the creosote bush (Larrea tridentate) of the American southwest desert, is used in teas capsules and tablet preparations.

Chaparral is promoted for the treatment of cancer, to retard aging, and as a free radical scavenger because of its antioxidant properties.

In December 1992, the FDA Center for Food safety and Applied Nutrition issued a warning suggesting a potential link between chaparral use and liver toxicity after six cases of hepatitis were reported after consumption of the herb. Some of the serious liver problems required hospitalization.

An herbal tea containing woodruff, melilot and tonka beans produced abnormal clotting function and mild clinical bleeding due to its high content of natural anticoagulants called coumadins.

Deaths have also been reported from the use of herbal teas made from oleander leaves (Nerium oleander) that are rich in toxic cardiac glycosides and mistletoe berries (Viscum album) that contain viscotoxin and other toxic principles.

Using herbal teas in home remedies for common childhood illness may trigger serious health problems for child.

Peppermint and chamomile teas are commonly used among Mexican-American populations. Their prolonged use, in the absence of normal food, may result in water intoxication and seizures in young children resulting from an inadequate sodium intake.

Furthermore, many herbal beverages are actually a concoction of several herbs. With the lack of comprehensive data on individual herbs, it is difficult to predict the combined effect of a complex mixture of herbs that may act in concert, in conflict or synergistically with each other.
Toxicities of Herbal Teas

Applications of Chrysanthemum

2009-02-16T21:30:00.001-08:00

Applications of Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum tea is prepared in the same way as traditional tea. The dried flowers are infused with hot water for over 10 min, and the tea is ready to serve.

For clinical usage, the chrysanthemum is boiled either alone or together with various other herbs, according to the prescriptions to suit a specific clinical purpose.

Based on traditional usage, in addition to use as a tea, C. morifolium is used for the common cold, fever, migraines, conjunctivitis, eye, irritation, hypertension, ulcerative colitis, vertigo, ophthalmia with swelling and pain, etc.

As a mixture with other herbs, it has been claimed to be able to relieve migraines and eye irritation, improve vision, and cure keratitis.

The curing rates of ulcerative colitis and hypertension are reported to be more than 90% and 80% respectively.

Apart from the above traditional usages, there are also reports of other usage, such as antitumor activities.

Chrysanthemum water extract was found to significantly inhibit growth of transplanted tumor in nude mice, suggesting that the water-soluble components of chrysanthemum may have potent chemopreventive effects.

Although chrysanthemum is considered to be a “mild” herb and almost with no side effect in traditional medical practice, adverse effect has been reported with its flowers, and leaves may cause skin dermatitis.

In contrast there was no report that drinking chrysanthemum tea could cause respiratory or alimentary tract irritation.
Applications of Chrysanthemum

Tea: Health Benefits

2009-01-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

Tea: Health Benefits
The tea plant Camellia sinensis has been grown in Southeast Asia for thousands of years. According to Chinese mythology, it was the emperor Shen Nung who discovered tea in 2737 BC. In ancient China, tea was considered as a medicinal remedy for headache, body aches and pains, depression, immune enhancement, digestion and detoxification; as an energizer and to prolong life.

The Japanese population learned the habit of drinking tea from the Chinese in approximately 800 AD. Tea consumption has now been adapted and assimilated by many cultures around the world. In Kamakura era (1191 – 1333), the monk Eisai stressed that beneficial effect of tea in his book, ‘Maintaining Health by Drinking Tea’ in 1211 in which he emphasized: “Tea is miraculous medicine for the maintenance of health.”

Of all the beverages consumed today, tea is undoubtedly one of the oldest, most widely known, and most widely consumed. Its consumption was introduced throughout the world by traders and travelers. One thing that makes tea attractive is that it is inexpensive and comes in numerous flavors. Tea drinking is a pleasurable experience that is enjoyed either alone or shared at social gatherings. The Japanese tea ceremony and the English 4 o’clock tea are examples of how important tea has become in the tradition of some cultures.

As the people age, a major health issue becomes remaining disease free. Thus, understanding what to eat and drink and what to avoid is important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Evidence is accumulating that tea has the potential to help reduce the incidence of major diseases, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Such a lifestyle includes plenty of exercise and minimizing mental stress. It also includes consuming a diet that possesses health promoting effects. Nutrition has, therefore, been an area of intense investigation during the past few decades. Some foods and beverages have a beneficial and protective effect. Daily intake of tea, fruit juice, and soy milk is part of a health promoting dietary tradition. This undertaking is based on differences in disease incidence as a function of locally prevailing nutritional habits.
Tea: Health Benefits

Citrus Juice

2009-01-12T17:45:00.001-08:00

Citrus Juice
Among citrus juice, orange is by far the most important. Lemon, lime, grape and tangerines are also processed as juice.

One of the characteristics of citrus juice is that it is to be consumed mainly as a cloudy drink.

Although the biggest percentage of that juice is made of diluted first extraction juice that does not require enzyme treatment most of the time, there is an appreciable production of by-product that are made from pulp and the peels, and these are marketed either as second quality juice or as natural cloudifiers.

The juice is rich in vitamin C, and in the minerals calcium, calcium, phosphorus and potassium.

The flavonoids are concentrated in the white pulp surrounding the fruit. Bioflavonoids help the body to retain and use vitamin C. Together these two nutrients improve the permeability and strength of capillary walls.

This is why citrus juice helps heal bruises more quickly than if they were not treated with citrus juice.

Common colds benefits greatly form a diet rich in citrus juices. Unfortunately while convenient, pasteurized, frozen, and concentrated citrus juices do not produce the same health benefits as fresh squeezed citrus juices.

Citrus juices taken in excess can leech calcium from the system, softening bones and teeth. If drink more than three to four 6 ounce glasses per week, make sure to get extra exercise to burn excess acid.
Citrus Juice

Acne and Green Tea

2008-12-29T23:43:00.000-08:00

Acne and Green Tea
Green tea is used by the Chinese as a traditional medicine to treat many ailments including acne and to improve general well-being. But does it provide an effective herbal alternative to modern medication?

In a recent study, a green tea cream was trailed against a 4% benzoyl peroxide solution on people suffering with moderate to severe acne. The results from this research study showed that green tea was just as good in treating acne as the benzoyl peroxide.
But benzoyl peroxide dries out skin causing itching or allergic reactions. Unlike green tea that has the added advantages of natural anti-bacterial properties and antioxidants, particularly epigallocatechin gallate which is 200 times more powerful than vitamin E at fighting free radicals.

Green tea also helps to reduce inflammation, hormonal activity and aids in detoxification - which is all good news for acne sufferers.
Green tea extract is an extremely versatile herbal supplement - it can be administered topically, often being used in creams, taken as a in the form of a pill or incorporated into your diet and drunk as a tea.

This last method is very popular (Green Tea with Honeysuckle is often known as Pimple Tea in many Chinatowns) when drunk after a meal it aids digestion and helps to detoxify your system, getting rid of the toxins that can cause acne. Tip: don’t drink it with sugar, this will neutralize the worthwhile effects of the tea.

It seems that taking green tea for acne is a win-win situation It has many beneficial properties which promote good all-round health with little or no known side effects and for the price, green tea its definitely a herbal treatment that is worth trying.
Source: articlehub
Acne and Green Tea

Potential of Herbal Drinks

2008-12-24T00:43:00.000-08:00

Potential of Herbal Drinks
In supermarket, and health food stores today, there are several different beverages with such catchy names as Scarlet Sunrise, Lemon Appeal, Sunburst C, Tangy Autumn, Mint Magic and Country Peach Passion. These herbal beverages may provide some therapeutic medicinal value. Those herbal beverages for which therapeutic properties are claimed may vary widely in their potency; therefore, a desired effect may be obtained. In addition, reaction to a particular herb can vary greatly form one person to another.

The potency of herbal beverages and hence their effectiveness, cannot be accurately predicted because the concentration of active ingredients in the plant material can vary enormously. Several factors can influence the potency of a herb, such as age of the plant, growing conditions, growing locations, storage and handling procedures, extraction methods and post-harvest processing. Any of these factors may produce a wide variation in the properties associated with an herbal tea.

Poor standardization of herbal teas can produce unreliable effects due to the great variation in the active constituents. The lack of standardization can contribute to the risk of overdose. There was also significant variability in the concentration of the marker compound from one brand of product to another.

Other issues to consider relate to species identification and whether the correct part of the plant is used. Different species of a particular genus may not act similarity. For example, the three of Echinacea have different activities. The oral use of the upper parts of Echinacea purpurea are recognized a beneficial for colds and respiratory infections, whereas it is root and the upper parts of Echinacea pallida that are useful for the treatment pf influenza-like infections.

On the other hand, neither the root nor the upper parts of Echinacea angustifolia provide any benefit for the treatment of respiratory tract infections. Because of the world wide shortage of Echinacea, some manufacturers have diluted their Echinacea preparations with wild quinine root, a cheaper look-alike substitute, which is inactive.
Potential of Herbal Drinks

Ginseng

2008-12-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

Ginseng
Although many different kinds of ‘ginseng’ may be sold in Canadian and American retail outlet, two species are commonly seen in pharmacy practice: Panax Ginseng and Panax quinquefollius L. Other closely related species include: Panax pseudoginseng Wallich var, japonicus, Panax pseudoginseng Wallich var, notoginseng are rarely seen.

Panax ginseng C.A Meyer is the most widely used and most extensively studied species of ginseng. Native to (and now widely cultivated in) both Korea and China, this herbaceous shrub grows to a height of 60 to 70 cm or 20 to 25 inches from a tap root and produces a cluster of small green yellow flowers. The fully grown tap roots are approximately 2 centimeters in diameter and 8 to 20 centimeters longs. Many ginseng products available in North America are made from Panax ginseng grown in the Orient.

Panax is derived from the Greek roots pan meaning “all” and akos meaning “cure” and refers to the “cure all” and “panacea” quality generally attributed to the herb. The name ginseng means “essence of the earth in the form of a man,” and refers to the resemblance of the roots to a human form.

Ginseng has been an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over five thousand years. It is considered to be a bitter sweet herb with a warming character. Within Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginseng was used to restore ‘yang’ quality and to treat general weakness, deficient qi (chi) patterns, anemia, lack of appetite, nervous agitation, thirst and impotence. It is classified as an adaptogen, which is thought to increase non specific resistance to adverse influences such as stress and infection. Traditionally it was used as a tonic to “increase strength, increase blood volume, promote life and appetite, quite the spirit, and give wisdom.” It was generally thought to improve vitality.
Ginseng

Witch Hazel

2008-11-13T17:40:00.000-08:00

Witch Hazel
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a deciduous shrub also called tobacco wood. Many tribes including the Cherokee and Iroquois have used a tea made from the leaves or bark to treat coughs, colds, fevers and sore throats. Because witch hazel is an astringent, it is also effective at treating diarrhea. This herb also has been used as an anti-bacterial, anti inflammatory, haemostatic (control bleeding), synoptic sedative and tonic.

Topically, witch hazel is widely used to treat skin irritations, bites and stings, cuts, and bruises and is an ingredient in many over the counter topical medicines.

To make tea, place one spoon of witch hazel bark or leaves in a pan; cover with one cup of water; bring to a boil; boil for ten to fifteen minutes; cover; cool and strain. Take up to one cup a day, a tablespoon at a time.

Witch hazel is used to relieve sugar diabetes. It will not cure it, but it will relieve the symptoms. The patients will not have to take pills or shots. A glass a day of the tea made with witch hazel for a month will put a person back to normal. After that, he or she may need to take another glass once a month or so.
Witch Hazel

Herbal Beverages in America

2008-10-29T03:05:00.000-07:00

Herbal Beverages in America
Drinking herbal beverage is popular in America for several reasons. Herbal teas provide opportunities to have a low calories beverage or a healthy caffeine-free alternative to coffee. Other tea may provide a medicinal affect. These herbal beverages may contain extracts from the bark, roots, seeds, flowers, leaves or fruits or trees and shrubs. Today, the herbal tea industry has become a multimillion-dollar business.

It was common for American Indians to use herbal preparations to treat various ailments and illness. For example, a tea made from Yarrow leaves was used to cure stomach disorders, to treat hemorrhaging, and break a fever. Bee balm was prepared as a tea by the Oswego Indians to treat colic, colds, fevers, stomachaches, nosebleeds, and insomnia. Witch hazel was used to treat rheumatism, hemorrhoids, backaches, cuts, insect bites and bruises. Wild yam was used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problem and relieve labor pains, and slippery elm was used as a soothing laxative. Various Native American tribes used motherwort to treat gynecologic disorders, whereas a tea made from goldenseal root was used as a general tonic.

After Europeans came to America, other herbal teas were used for various purposes. For example, hop tea was useful to induce sleep, passionflower was used to treat insomnia and peppermint tea was successfully used to relieve nausea and indigestion. In addition willow bark was used for muscle aches and pains and to treat fevers, and white oak bark was used as a gargle for sore throats and to relieve skin problems.

To avoid consuming caffeine-containing beverages, some people choose cereal-based beverages. These originally develop from roasted cereals and molasses. Years ago, these coffee substitutes were popular. Because these beverages stimulate gastric acid secretion, person who develop peptic ulcer should not consumes the roasted cereal beverages in an empty stomach.
Herbal Beverages in America

Health Benefits of Tea

2008-10-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Health Benefits of Tea
Tea is the most common beverage choice through the world. Whether it’s black, green, or oolong tea, tea comes from the same plant, called Camellia sinensis. Differences in color and flavor depend ion processing.

For black tea, the most popular type in the United States, tea leaves are exposed to air, the natural biochemical process turns them a deep red-brown color and imparts a unique, rich flavor. Many flavored specialty teas start with black tea.

For green tea, typically served in Chinese and Japanese restaurants, the tea leaves are not processed as much. Instead, they’re just heated or steamed quickly to keep their green color and delicate flavor.

Oolong tea is “between” tea: between black and green tea.

Whether black or green or oolong, tea appears to have potential health benefits, perhaps derived from its flavonoids. Flavonoids and other polyphenols, which are phytonutrients, work as antioxidants that may help protect body cells from damage done by free radicals. Using the oxygen radical absorbency capacity (ORAC)) score, which may ranks the antioxidants potential of plant based foods, tea ranks as high as or higher than many fruits and vegetables.

Can tea drinking help keep our body healthy? May be, but the research linking tea consumption and disease prevention is too new for certainty, And there’s not enough evidence yet to offer specific advice about tea drinking. Some promising areas of study suggests that tea or tea’s flavonoids may reduce risk of gastric, esophageal and skin cancers and may offer protection from heart disease and stroke – if consume enough (four to six cups a day). Some studies are investigating whether tea plays a role in relaxation or mental performance.

Tea may supply fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel, if it’s made with fluoridated water. Tea also may help fight cavities by reducing plaque formation and hindering cavity-forming bacteria.
Health Benefits of Tea

Roselle Drinks

2008-09-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

Roselle Drinks
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L. var. sabdariffa), belonging to the family Malvaceae, is an important multipurpose annual under-shrub preferred for its red, acid, succulent calyces, young leaves, stem, fruits ,seed and seed oil for food, beverages and in Yunani and modern systems of medicine throughout the tropics and subtropics.

The dried calyces have acquired a considerable reputation in the international trade as a substitute for tea and coffee and as a popular softdrinks. The fresh calyces are used as a vegetable or eaten as salad or used in confectionaries, in the preparation of soups, curries, chutneys, sauces, jams, jellies, squashes, tarts, tisanes and wines. The astringent herbal drinks made form hibiscus, known as medicinal tea, is used as a cure for fever, cold, pneumonia, and is said to possess diuretic, demulcent, emollient, laxative, antiseptic, antiscorbutic, antispasmodic, and choleretic properties. The drug is also to cure heart and nerve disease, asthma, and skin diseases. Besides, the seeds contain fatty oil, proteins, starch and lipids. Medicinally, the seeds are reported to have demulcent, diuretic and tonic properties and recommend in cases of dyspepsia, strangury and general debility.
Roselle Drinks

Chrysanthemum Tea as Traditional Medicine

2008-09-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

Chrysanthemum Tea as Traditional Medicine
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat normally use as an attractive flower for horticultural purpose in Europe, but in several Asian countries such as China, Korea and Japan it has been use as a traditional medicine. The flower of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat, owing to its broad pharmaceutical effects as well as it fragrance, is also used as a beverage – chrysanthemum tea.
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat is widely distributed in most habitats of China as well as Korea and Japan. In China, it is cultivated mainly in Zhejiang province along the Yangzi River. Ting Xiang City of this province, also refer to as the “City of Chrysanthemum,” produces about 4000-5000 tons of chrysanthemum flower each year, which accounts for more than 90% of the total Chrysanthemum production in China.

Chrysanthemum Tea is prepared in the same way as traditional tea. The dried flowers are infused with hot water for over 10 min. and the tea is ready to serve. For clinical usage, the chrysanthemum is boiled either alone or together with various herbs, according to the prescription to suit a specific clinical purpose.

Based on traditional usage, in addition to use as a tea Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat is used for common cold, fever, migraines, conjunctivitis, eye irritation, hypertension, ulcerative colitis, vertigo, ophthalmia with swelling and pain, etc. As a mixture with other herbs, it has been claimed to be able to relieve migraines and eye irritation, improve vision and cure keratitis.

Apart from the above traditional usage, there were also other usages, such as antitumor activities. Chrysanthemum water extract was found to significantly inhibit growth of transplanted tumor in mice, suggesting that the water soluble components of chrysanthemum may have potent chemopreventive effects.
Chrysanthemum Tea as Traditional Medicine

Herbal Teas

2008-09-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Herbal Teas
People have been consuming herbal teas for as long as they have known how to heat water – since well before recorded history. Unlike green, black and oolong teas, herbal teas can be made from virtually any plant, and from any part of the plant, including roots, flowers, seeds, berries or bark. These are some herbs, such as Echinacea, ginkgo leaf, saw palmetto and milk thistle, which are not effective at healing when taken in tea form because their active components are not water soluble, and the concentration needed for medicinal potency is so high it can be obtained only from an extract, pill or capsule.

Different herbal teas, which sometimes contain thousands of beneficial active compounds, have their own distinct healing uses. Herbal teas are very good for relieving mild to moderate ailments such as upset stomach, sore throat, coughs, stuffy nose and insomnia.

Many herbal teas are available in tea bags form. They can also be prepared from the raw herbs. To make an herbal teas gently crumble leaves and flowers and break roots and bark into pieces and place them into ceramic or glass container. Cover the herb part with boiling water and allow them to steep.

Most herbs should be steeped for four to six minutes, although some herbal teas, such as chamomile, need to be steeped for fifteen to twenty minutes in a covered container in order to deliver their full therapeutic. Other herbs, such as ginseng roots, can be boiled. Astragalus can be lightly simmered for several hours. In fact, in Asia, ginseng root, astragalus, dong quai and other herbs are added to chicken broth to make a tonic soup that is both food and medicine.
Herbal Teas,

Red Raspberry Drinks

2008-08-06T23:30:00.000-07:00

Red Raspberry Drinks
Red Raspberry popular as a folk remedy for painful and profuse menstruation and as a tonic during pregnancy. Brewed as a tea or as an infusion, raspberry is the best known, most widely used, and safest of all uterine and pregnancy tonic herbs. It contains fragrine, an alkaloid which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvic region, including the uterus itself. Most of the benefits ascribed to regular use of Raspberry tea through pregnancy are traced to the nourishing source of vitamins and minerals found in this plant and to the strengthening power of fragrine.

Red raspberry has health benefits beyond women’s issue. Red raspberry also valued traditionally as an astringent treatment for diarrhea, nausea, stomach ailments, colds, mouth sores, and inflamed mucous membranes of the throat. The tannins in the leaf make it effective in soothing inflammation in the digestive tract and can alleviate diarrhea, especially in children. Red raspberry leaves also contain significant amounts of vitamins A, C and E as well as the entire B-complex.

It is the abundant citrate of iron in the raspberry leaf and berry that gives this plant an excellent prevention and treatment for anemia, female organ "regulating" properties as well as the contracting action on the female genitalia and other tissues and membranes.

Raspberry leaf drinks also acts as an astringent on irritated skin by tightening the top layers of skin or mucous membranes effectively reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. As a mouth wash it is sued to soothe mouth and throat irritations.

How to prepare red raspberry tea? Place one ounce of dried raspberry leaves into a pint of boiling water (or half a pound per gallon) and simmer for ten minutes (though some recommend two to three hours to get maximum benefit from them). Drink the tea cold.

Caution: red raspberry is a mild uterine stimulant. Pregnant women should consult a qualified health care practitioner before using it.
Red Raspberry Drinks

The differences between herbal tea and common tea

2008-07-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

The differences between herbal tea and common tea

Basically there are two different categories of tea: herbal tea and common tea.

What's the difference between them?

• Herbal tea serves as medicine. It is made from brewing raw medicinal herbs in a pot for some time. The result is a brown or black solution, never green.

• The Chinese drink common tea for pleasure because of the good flavors. It is made by just pouring boiling water over the processed tea leaves or bag you put in a cup. Over a hundred varieties exist with different smells and tastes. The great majority is brown or black in color. Some are green or reddish.

Is common tea good for health?

• Yes because it is flavored water and water is good for health. Also, the taste makes us feel good so it must be good for our health.

• Some medicinal herbs that have a sweet taste and easily soften in hot water are also used at home or in the restaurant. However, their health effects are limited because they are not strong enough when being used singly.

• If not diluted, it can help ease digestion.

• It also helps dissolve some fat in the food. The Cantonese must drink it with Dim Sum, a tasty, colorful, but oily food.

• If we drink it everyday like we drink water, it will have a good cleansing effect on our digestive system. It may help us lose some weight, too.

The differences between herbal tea and common tea

What is Noni Fruit Juice?

2008-06-15T08:45:00.000-07:00

What is Noni Fruit Juice?
Not to be confused with whole noni fruit drink or noni fruit powder, pure noni fruit juice contains dozens of nutrients to improve your overall health. When the noni fruit is ripe, it is completely saturated with juice; the juice literally drips off the fruit. Eventually, the fruit becomes so heavy that it falls to the ground.

The fruit is harvested by gathering the fruit off the ground, throwing it onto large screens, and letting the juice drain through the screens into large tubs. This way, there is no pulp, seed, flower, or bark in the juice.

The juice can be bottled with or without pasteurization. Currently the FDA does not require anything to be pasteurized, but it does require a warning label in cases where the beverage is not pasteurized. Almost all beverages consumed in the United States are pasteurized. The reason for this is that biologically harmful microbes tend to like fruit. Pasteurization, a process by which a liquid is heated to a certain temperature for a certain period of time, makes the fruit uninhabitable to those harmful microorganisms. It also protects against spoilage and undesired fermentation. While some see pasteurization as a great way to destroy some of the more valuable nutrients in noni fruit, it is better to be safe than sorry. Opt for noni fruit juice that has been pasteurized.

Follow the suggested dosage on the bottle in consultation with your physician.
What is Noni Fruit Juice?

Ginseng

2008-05-10T03:31:00.000-07:00

Ginseng
Ginseng is a powerful energy tonic and the most well known oriental herb. Ginseng which is known since ancient times tonifies the lungs and stomach and strengthens the spleen. It is also shown to have anti-stress capabilities. In Chinese medicine, ginseng is considered the most important her for strengthening Qi, the vital energy of which the universe is comprised.

Revered in Chinese medicine for thousands years to restore and maintain health, ginseng is well accepted by Europeans and American medicinal applications and is used worldwide. It is believed that ginseng was discovered in the mountains of Northern China over 5000 years ago. It was probably first used as a food. However, there was a record shows that it was used as a medicinal purpose over 3000 years ago. In sixteenth century Korea started experimenting and cultivating the world’s first farmed root.

Wild ginseng grows in very thick forest. It doesn't grow at the periphery of the forest, but deep in the mountains. This has less to do with its growth nature and more with the harvesting nature of mankind.

Wild ginseng is very large and big. It is juicy and full of liquid. The wrinkles in the head of the root that are small and compact indicates a better quality herb than ginseng with wide and thick wrinkles on the head. A longer head is better than a short one. The more pearls on the beard roots the better.
Ginseng

Reasons to Drink Herbal Teas

2008-04-12T21:06:00.000-07:00

Reasons to Drink Herbal Teas
Apart from the wonderful tastes from some herbal teas there are other reasons why folks chose to drink these over the traditional leaves. Herbal teas have long been associated with good health and wellbeing. The soothing, relaxing, and medicinal properties that can be brewed out of such herbs as Ginger, Thyme, Peppermint and Parsley, are legendary.

Homemade herbal teas are not only simple to make, but they're cheap too. There's also growing proof that they provide effective remedies for a whole range of ailments.

If you're anything like me and you have a spot of bother nodding off a night, try a cup of Chamomile tea which has a natural sedative. It's worked wonders for me and I wake up fresh and alert each and every morning nowadays. Well, almost! But Chamomile tea is also said to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties too, so it's good for those cramps that some of us get from time to time. But that’s not all. Chamomile is rich in essential oil, and what that means is that it helps to keep your digestive system functioning correctly.

Jasmine tea is made using green tea leaves and jasmine flowers and is said to have strong spiritual powers. The tea is made by resting the leaves next to the powerfully scented Jasmine flowers to capture the aroma. The smell is just delightful, and the tea is used for its relaxing effects, and to also soothe the digestive system. Recent studies have also indicated that it may help to reduce cholesterol levels, and increase life expectancy.

Another popular herbal tea is Ginger. Ginger is renowned for its powerful medicinal properties. Additionally, it has been listed as an aphrodisiac and can also be used to cure bad breath. However, treating the latter probably helps with the former!

To make Ginger tea, simply cut three or four slices of peeled, fresh root ginger and chop finely. As a guide, you will need about a heaped teaspoon or more for one cup. Place the ginger in a china cup, cover with freshly boiled water, and leave to infuse for about 5 minutes. Other medicinal properties of the ginger root are reputed to help improve circulation, relieve a sore throat, stop motion sickness, dizziness, and relieve muscular aches and pains.

All herbal teas are made by finely chopping or shredding the leaves or roots. They are then placed in a cup, covered with boiling water and allowed to infuse for a few minutes just as the ginger tea recipe above. Herbal teas should be drunk slowly. Some folks like to add a bit of honey as a sweetener. If you are taking herbal tea for medicinal purposes, it's recommended to drink about 4 cups daily.
Reasons to Drink Herbal Teas
By Andy Maingam
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com

Herbal Teas Benefits

2008-02-25T19:21:00.000-08:00

Herbal Teas Benefits
Herbal teas are a great way to relax and calm of ourselves. If we have trouble sleeping, drink a cup of herbal tea. Some herbs, such as Chamomile, contain natural sedative properties, so falling asleep after a cup of hot tea is very common.

Herbal teas are made by infusing herbs in boiling water.

How to prepare herbal tea? Herbal teas are made with fresh or dried herbs, flowers, fruit, roots, berries, hips and spices. They can be prepared from one type of herb or plant, or a combination of several, depending on the desired result and flavor. Since herbal infusions do not contain actual leaves from the tea bush, they are totally caffeine free.

For generations, herbal teas have been used in the Eastern world as a preventative measure and as a significant contribution to good health.

Avoid over steeping the herbs as some flavors such as peppermint can intensify and become rather medicinal instead of pleasant. Herbal teas can be enhanced with a little honey or natural sugar.

With a wide variety of health benefits, such as soothing effects, anti-viral aid, and detoxification, herbal tea has health benefits that go beyond mere hydration.

Apart from relaxing the body, most are high in vitamin C and rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants protect the human body from damage by free radicals, providing some protection against cancer, heart disease and stroke.

Herbal teas nourish our nervous systems and strengthen our immune systems. They ease cold symptoms, calm the nerves and relieve nausea, motion sickness, and dizziness.

It should be noted however that some herbal teas are not safe to drink during pregnancy. Chamomile tea, for instance, has been reported to have adverse effects on the uterus. Therefore avoid chamomile tea during pregnancy. Those that are safe to drink during pregnancy include citrus peel, ginger, lemon balm, orange peel and rose hip. Ginger, it should be noted, is known to ease morning sickness.

Sometimes, an infant with colic can be soothed by the mothers consumption of chamomile tea. The chamomile enters the mother's milk and when the child drinks her milk it soothes his stomach.

Regular consumption of these herbal tea beverages is proven to generate fresh breathe, rejuvenate skin tone and cool body temperature.

So remember, herbal tea is totally caffeine free, it is 100% natural without any chemical additions and it is a traditional health drink that is invigorating in itself and offers many medical benefits to health. Not only that but it leaves you with a lingering and wonderfully warm feeling of well being. Whether to warm you after a cold winter’s day or to soothe frazzled nerves, herbal tea is a calming way to go for many.
Herbal Teas Benefits

Zingiber Tea

2007-12-10T04:15:00.000-08:00

Zingiber Tea
Ginger is also known as Zingiber officinale, and has certain therapeutic properties and the reported benefits of using it internally, in the form of an herbal tea (infusion) are mentioned below.

Ginger is used for colds and flu, chills, fever and headaches, stomach upsets, warms the body and helps circulation, nausea and vomiting, chest congestion, relieves pain, morning sickness, digestive and liver function.

The roots are used for making the brew and are normally thinly sliced before infusing it into the hot water. However, ginger tea should not to be consumed by people with ulcers in the digestive track and high fever suffering from an inflammatory skin complaint

How to make ginger tea? The standard way to make an infusion, unless otherwise specified, is to pour a cup of boiling water over the material to be infused, let it stand for 5 minutes, strain it, and drink it. Ginger tea can be sweetened by drink it with honey. And also can be added with fresh lemon juice may also enhance the taste.
Zingiber Tea

Dieter's brews: slim chance of weight loss

2007-10-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

Dieter's brews: slim chance of weight loss
A cup of hot herbal tea may feel soothing to the soul, but instead of soothing the body, some herbal teas can make you sick.

This is especially true with so-called dieter's teas, herbal teas containing senna, aloe, buckthorn, and other plant-derived laxatives that, when consumed in excessive amounts, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, chronic constipation, fainting, and perhaps death.

In recent years, FDA has received "adverse event" reports, including the deaths of four young women, in which dieter's teas may have been a contributing factor. As a result, FDA is advising consumers to follow package directions carefully when using dieter's teas and other dietary supplements containing senna, aloe, and other stimulant laxatives.

Consumers should seek medical attention for persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and other bowel problems to prevent more serious complications. The agency may consider requiring manufacturers to place a warning about the products' potential side effects on the products' labels. Some manufacturers already are doing so voluntarily.

These products--bought in health food stores and through mail-order catalogs, for example--often are used for weight loss based on some consumers' belief that increased bowel movements will prevent absorption of calories, thus preventing weight gain. Studies show that laxative-induced diarrhea does not significantly reduce absorption of calories. This is because the laxatives do not work on the small intestine, where calories are absorbed, but rather on the colon, the lower end of the bowel.
Dieter's brews: slim chance of weight loss

Korean Panax Ginseng

2007-05-06T23:52:00.000-07:00

Korean Panax Ginseng
Ginseng is the dried root of one of several species of the Araliaceae family of herbs. The most common ginseng is called Korean Ginseng. Looking for Korean Ginseng, means looking for
anti-coagulant, energy boost, virility, and anti-inflammatory benefits of this herb. There are many version of "Korean" ginseng available. So how to be sure you are purchasing authentic Korean Panax ginseng?

One way to ensure people are selecting authentic Korean Panax Ginseng is to look for the Korea Insam seal (below), which shows that the product is approved by the Republic of Korea government . True Korean Panax Ginseng has been used in Korea and other parts of Asia for thousands of years to provide the following benefits:

Energy boost and treating fatigue
Enhanced immune system
Improved memory
Anti-coagulant
Anti-inflammatory

Thanks to recent research and dramatic growth of the herbal supplement industry, ginseng has become increasingly popular and is the third most-used herbal supplement in the United States.

However, despite its popularity, the availability of authentic Korean ginseng from Korea has been mostly limited to Korean grocery stores and Asian specialty shops.
Korean Panax Ginseng

Combining Energy Drinks With Alcohol Potentially Dangerous

2007-04-10T08:30:00.001-07:00

Herbal Drinks
The newest rage among college students and teens is mixing energy drinks with alcohol, a potentially dangerous combination.

Mixing powerful stimulants contained in some energy drinks with depressants in alcohol could cause cardiopulmonary or cardiovascular failures.

It is scary to think that these energy drinks are being used as a mixer with vodka and whiskey. You are just overloading the body with heavy stimulants and heavy depressants.

Expert think we are going down the same road as when people drink alcohol and ingest ecstasy and other types of designer drugs. Some people physically cannot take the combination.

Energy drinks are the latest popular fad among America's youth culture. With names like Venom, Whoopass, Red Bull and Adrenaline Rush, energy drinks are being sold by the millions to people looking for a quick boost of energy.

Most energy drinks contain large doses of caffeine and other legal stimulants including ephedrine, guarana, taurine and ginseng. Such drinks are being marketed to people 30 and younger.

Little research has been done to determine if energy drinks are helpful or harmful. The NCAA and some professional sports leagues have banned such stimulants, Pearson said.
There is a feeling of empowerment after a person drinks one of these. The effects can last up to 12 hours.

Because they are legal and sold over the counter just like cans of pop, kids who have been raised on caffeine-based drinks think they are perfectly fine.
Herbl Drinks

Kacip Fatimah Drinks

2007-02-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

Herbal Drinks
Kacip Fatimah has been traditionally used by the Malay women for many generations in childbirth in inducing and eases delivery, as a post partum medication to help contract the birth channel, to regain body strength, regulate menstrual cycle and avoid painful or difficult menstration, and to alleviate menopausal symptoms. The plant is traditionally boiled and the water extraction is taken as a drink. Other traditional uses include treating dysentery, rheumatism, and gennoehoea. It is also used as antiflatulence by helping to drive away and prevent the formation of gas. The plant will also help to firm and tone the abdominal muscles. Scientific studies have established that the medicinal properties and biological activities of Kacip Fatimah are due to the presence of phyto-estrogen (plant estrogen) that is naturally found in the plant.

The Labisia pumila is a small herbaceous under shrub that roots from the stem. There are few leaves which point upwards. The root is tough and woody with long primary roots and few secondary roots. The tip of the leaf is pointed with a base that is tapered or rather broad –rounded. The leaf has a slight odor and taste. The whole leaf is about 5-35cm long and 2-8cm wide finely toothed with numerous veins. It is of a dark green color on adaxial and lighter green on the abaxial. Flowers on the shrub are very small, generally white or pink, in spike like panicle of small clusters. They range from 6-30 cm long with sepals, petals and stamens. The petals wrap around and enclose the stamens. The fruit are about .5cm in diameter and are either bright red or purple.
Herbal Drinks

Thai Traditional Herbal Beverages

2007-01-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

Herbal Drinks
Thai people have, over the centuries, adapted their living conditions in the hot and humid tropics through their housing, clothing, foods, and beverages. Traditional herbal beverages, the subject of this paper, have played an important role, not only in quenching the thirst, but also in providing therapy for common ailments.

Thai traditional herbal beverages can be classified into six groups, viz.
(i) herbal teas,
(ii) herbal drinks,
(iii) herbal juices,
(iv) herbal milks,
(v) toddies, and
(v) coconut water.
Herbal teas are obtained by infusion of fresh or dry plant material. Popular Thai traditional herbal teas are made from Roselle, chrysanthemum, safflower, and bael fruit. Herbal drinks are obtained by decoction or concoction from flowers, fruits, leaves, and roots/rhizomes; popular traditional herbal drinks are made from roselle, pomegranate, sugar apple, tamarind, lime, carambola, longan, mulberry, native apricot, and bael fruit.

Herbal juices are obtained by expression from fruits (e.g. mandarin, orange, and pineapple), and stem of sugarcane. Herbal milks are obtained by expression of plant materials; most popular ones are soybean and young-rice milks. Toddy, a special kind of herbal beverage, is a sweet aromatic sap exuded out through root pressure from cut surface of the inflorescence of the coconut and sugar palms. Coconut water is unique in that it is the only beverage in which the water is obtained by decanting from fruit cavity of the coconut.

Through the use of traditional and local wisdom and knowledge of local plants, the Thais since ancient times have developed effective methods of preparing traditional beverages with healthy and refreshing properties.
Herbal Drinks

Tongkat ali :Sexual Treasure

2006-12-09T15:35:00.000-08:00

Herbal Drinks
It is a plant that enjoys two folk names. One is Tongkat ali, which means Ali’s walking stick. The other is longjack. By any name, Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is a sex-boosting dynamo of a plant that has proven its sexual benefits in both animal and human studies.

Tongkat ali is a slender tree native to Malaysia, lower Burma, Thailand, and Indonesia. The root is employed as a traditional remedy for the treatment of malaria, high blood pressure, fevers, fatigue, loss of sexual desire, and impotence.

In Malaysia, Tongkat ali is the object of a sexual potency craze, an ingredient found in over three hundred products, from herbal syrups to capsules to popular soft drinks. Tongkat ali is everywhere, driving the lusty engine of steamy, equatorial Southeast Asia.

In the instance of Tongkat ali, the trail led me to the Malaysian peninsula, in a spectacular rainforest one million years old, to witness the harvesting of a root that is legendary among the peoples of Southeast Asia. Nobody knows how long Tongkat ali has been employed for medicinal purposes, but its documented use dates back to the 1700’s. In the steaming hot rainforest, I watched four aboriginal Orang Asli natives hack a large Tongkat ali root from the ground, using only simple hand tools. I marvelled at the hard labor often involved in harvesting plants for the herbal market.

The Big Testosterone Builder
Tongkat ali root contains a plethora of beneficial compounds, including potent protective antioxidants which inhibit cellular aging. Other phytochemicals in Tongkat ali demonstrate anti-viral, anti-malarial, and anti-cancer activity. Others combat high blood pressure, and quell dysentery. The root is a natural medicine chest. But what excites most people about Tongkat ali is that the root significantly boosts sex drive and function, in both men and women, by building testosterone. Agents identified as glycoproteins are believed to be the sex-promoting ingredients in the plant.

The foundation studies conducted on Tongkat ali have been undertaken by former University Of Malaysia Professor Dr. Johari Saad PhD, who is called by many the King Of Tongkat ali. Dr Johari found that when given a standardized Tongkat ali extract containing 22% glycoproteins, animals copulate three to four times more frequently than normal. This is because testosterone levels in animals given Tongkat ali increase three to four times on average, an astounding increase in the sex hormone most closely associated with libido.

Testosterone is the most important of the male sex hormones, which are known as androgens, and are produced in the gonads. In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development and maturity of male sex organs, the appearance of facial hair, deepening of voice, sexual desire and sexual behavior. In women, testosterone is the key to proactove sex drive, and is essential to pleasure. Testosterone produces erotic sensitivity of the clitoris, breasts and nipples, flipping the pleasure switch on a woman’s erogenous zones. For both men and women, testosterone is the bingo chemical for sexual drive and desire.
The researcher conducted a study of thirty adult males of various ages, assessed their testosterone levels, and then gave them 100 mg of standardized tongkat ali extract daily. The testosterone levels of the entire subjects rose, from somewhat to a lot, depending on age. Dr Tamby’s study resulted in a 91% improvement in libido, a reported 73% improvement in sexual function, and an 82% psychological improvement relative to sex among the men who participated in the study. His work shows that Tongkat ali can re-elevate the level of this important sex hormone. In this regard, Tongkat ali proves a true sexual fountain of youth.

Using The Root
Tongkat ali significantly boosts sex drive in men and women, and has a long history of use enhancing sexual function in men. The top Tongkat ali experts in Malaysia recommend that men consume about 100 - 200 mg of Tongkat ali extract daily, and women about 50 - 100 mg. Look for standardized Tongkat ali extract with a 20 – 22% glycoprotein level. This is a remarkably effective herb with a very bright future.
Herbal Drinks

Licorice: Uses and Health Benefits

2006-11-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

Herbal Drinks
Licorice is harvested from the root and dried rhizomes of the low-growing shrub Glycyrrhiza glabra . Currently, most licorice is produced in Greece, Turkey, and Asia.
Licorice was used in ancient Greece, China, and Egypt, primarily for gastritis and ailments of the upper respiratory tract. Ancient Egyptians prepared a licorice drink for ritual use to honor spirits of the pharaohs. Its use became widespread in Europe and Asia for numerous indications.
During World War II, the Dutch physician F.E. Revers observed improvements in patients' peptic ulcer disease from a licorice preparation. He also noted facial and peripheral edema, sparking scientific investigation into licorice's properties and adverse effects. In the 1950s, there were reports of patients with Addison's disease 'craving' licorice candy, viewed by some as early evidence of steroid modulating properties.

In addition to its medicinal uses, licorice has been used as a flavoring agent, valued for sweetness (glycyrrhizin, a component of licorice, is 50 times sweeter than table sugar). The generic name "glycyrrhiza" stems from ancient Greek, meaning "sweet root." It was originally used as flavoring for licorice candies, although most licorice candy is now flavored with anise oil. Licorice is still used in sub-therapeutic doses as a sweetening agent in herbal medicines, lozenges, and tobacco products (doses low enough that significant adverse effects are unlikely).

Licorice has a long history of medicinal use in Europe and Asia. At high doses, there are potentially severe side effects, including hypertension (high blood pressure), hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels) and fluid retention.Most adverse effects have been attributed to the chemical component glycyrrhiza (or glycyrrhizic acid). Licorice can be processed to remove the glycyrrhiza, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice), which does not appear to share the metabolic disadvantages of licorice.

In Europe, licorice has most often been used to treat cough, bronchitis, gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease. In Chinese medicine, it is felt to benefit Qi , reduce "Fire Poison" (sore throat, skin eruptions), and diminish "Heat." Specific conditions treated by Chinese herbalists include gastric and duodenal ulcers, abdominal pain, pharyngitis, malaria, tuberculosis, abscesses and sores. In Ayurveda, licorice is felt to be effective in the treatment of constipation, inflamed joints, peptic ulcer disease, and diseases of the eye.

Uses based on scientific evidence

Apthous ulcers / canker sores
Some research suggests that licorice extracts, DGL and carbenoxolone may provide benefits for treating cankers sores. However, studies have been small, with flaws in their designs. The safety of DGL makes it an attractive therapy if it does speed healing of these sores, but it is not clear at this time whether there is truly any benefit.

Atopic dermatitis
Topical licorice extract gel has been shown to be effective in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in preliminary human study. Further research is needed to confirm these results.

Bleeding stomach ulcers caused by aspirin
Although there has been some study of DGL in this area, it is not clear what effects DGL has on gastrointestinal bleeding.

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)
A small clinical pilot study and laboratory study of a multi-ingredient preparation containing licorice, called Immunoguard, suggests possible effects in managing FMF. Well-designed study of licorice alone is necessary before a recommendation can be made.

Herpes simplex virus
Laboratory studies have found that DGL may hinder the spread and infection of herpes simplex virus. Studies in humans have been small, but they suggest that topical application of carbenoxolone cream may improve healing and prevent recurrence.

High potassium levels resulting from abnormally low aldosterone levels
In theory, because of the known effects of licorice, there may be some benefits of licorice for high potassium levels caused by a condition called hypoaldosteronism. There is early evidence in humans in support of this use. However, research is preliminary and a qualified health care provider should supervise treatment.

Peptic ulcer disease
Licorice extracts, DGL and carbenoxolone have been studied for treating peptic ulcers. DGL (but not carbenoxolone) may offer some benefits. However, these studies have been small, with flaws in their designs, and results of different studies have disagreed with each other. Therefore, it is unclear whether there is any benefit from licorice for this condition.

Reducing body fat mass
Preliminary data shows that licorice may reduce body fat mass. Further research is needed to confirm these results.

Viral hepatitis
The licorice extracts DGL and carbenoxolone have been proposed as possible therapies for viral hepatitis. Animal studies have investigated the mechanism of licorice in hepatitis, and studies in humans have shown some benefits with a patented intravenous licorice preparation that is not available in the United States. Studies using oral licorice have been small, with flaws in their designs. Therefore, it is not clear whether there is any benefit from oral licorice for hepatitis treatment.

Genital herpes
Available studies have not found any benefit from carbenoxolone cream when applied topically to the skin to treat genital herpes infections.

Uses based on tradition or theory
The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), allergy, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antitumor, aplastic anemia, asthma, bacterial infections, bad breath, breast cancer, bronchitis, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, colitis, colorectal cancer, constipation, coronavirus, cough, cysts, dental hygiene, depression, detoxification, diabetes, diuretic, diverticulitis, dysmenorrhea, eczema, Epstein-Barr virus, fever, functional dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gentamicin induced kidney damage, graft healing, hepatoma, high cholesterol, HIV, hormone regulation, hot flashes, hyperpigmentation disorders, immune system stimulation, inflammation, inflammatory skin disorders, laryngitis, liver cancer, liver protection, lung cancer, melanoma, melasma, menopausal symptoms, metabolic abnormalities, methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, muscle cramps, obesity, osteoarthritis, plaque, polycystic ovarian syndrome, prostate cancer, pruritus, rheumatoid arthritis, RSV, SARS, skin disorders, sore throat, stomach upset, tobacco-associated lung cancer, urinary tract inflammation.
Herbal Drinks

Herbal Drinks: Do they benefit your baby?

2006-11-07T02:37:00.000-08:00

Herbal Drinks
Giving babies herbal drinks to relieve intestinal gas and aid digestion is a long-standing tradition in Egypt, and in addition to an abundance of herb stores, there are several pre-packaged products on the market today. However, while herbal drinks have no immediate side effects, health practitioners point out that they must be used with care.

Anise (yansuun), chamomile (sheeh), fennel (shamar), caraway (karawya) and peppermint (na'a na'a) are the most popular herbs brewed for infants, either in various combinations or singularly. In addition to effectively reducing stomach pain and treating diarrhea, some mothers report that herbal drinks help their babies sleep more soundly. However, according to nutritionist Sue Gilbert, a consultant on the web site www.parentsplace.com, while "herbal brews such as chamomile may be benign as an addition to a baby's diet of breast milk or formula, there is no proven health benefit."

Internationally, the Food Standards Agency of the UK, which was established in the year 2000 as a consumer advocate organization, advises parents to avoid herbal drinks entirely. The World Health Organization (WHO) goes even further recommending that all babies be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, not to be given pacifiers, bottles or any supplemental drinks, including water.

Dr. Mohamed Omar, a consultant pediatrician at Cairo University, sometimes advises mothers to "try herbal drinks for specific conditions such as colic or when a [baby] is having difficulty sleeping, but [never] to use them on a routine basis." Colic occurs in 20% of babies between birth and three months of age according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. "Before [herbal drinks] are used, the mother's diet should be reviewed," explains Dr. Omar because "a diet high in dairy products, garlic and fried foods can be problematic. Babies' feeding schedules should also be organized and soothing maneuvers such as putting the baby on his stomach and [bending his knees] over his chest should be tried."

But if they are natural and have no side effects, why not offer them to babies continuously? Firstly, because babies may drink less milk if they are satiated with herbal drinks, and this can lead to weight loss for formula fed babies and to decreased milk supply for breastfeeding mothers.Secondly, pre-packaged products are often made up of up to 96% sugar, which harms the little teeth present below the gums from birth. In fact, most likely due to a German lawsuit against a major European manufacturer in the mid-1990s, herbal drink packages now often carry warnings that the drinks should be given by a caretaker from a cup, not a bottle, and that the baby's teeth should be brushed immediately after drinking them to prevent tooth decay.

Dr. Omar recommends that "when commercial herbal drinks are used, mothers should make sure that they are sugar and preservative-free. Otherwise, it is better to brew their own as extra sugar can be harmful for the baby." Extra sugar can mean that your pleasantly plump baby may turn into an overweight adult. "There are two times in life when a person adds fat cells to their body: in the first two years of life, and at adolescence," explains Dr. Omar. "Whether we gain or lose fat at other times in life is just a matter of how much this fixed number of fat cells swell.

So it is important not to give extra sugar to babies under two, or you could set them up to become fat adults by giving them a taste for sweets and by causing them to have extra fat cells." When preparing your home-made brew, add the herbs to mineral water and heat them until warm (about one minute), but do not boil because boiling causes water to evaporate, thus increasing the concentration of salt and minerals.
Source: arabia.msn.com
Herbal Drinks

Green Tea Basics

2006-10-15T00:14:00.001-07:00

Green tea is becoming very popular today, although many people do not know anything about green tea it is considered to be something healthy and good, something that will improve the quality of life of the one drinking it, and it is very true.

For centuries people have been using tea as a special drink, sometimes as a ceremonial drink and sometimes used for medicinal propose, the benefits of green tea are not something that has been discovered lately but has been used and learned for many years.

There are many home remedies that are associated with green tea, it is known that many people use green tea as a relief for nausea, for treating skin and teeth and many other conditions.

The advantages of green tea are mostly famous for their ability to help people on a diet, the green tea diet has had great popularity in the west, and many people know about green tea because of the marketing effort made to sell the green tea diet products, but it is much more than a diet product or any kind of medicine that is used to assist in one or another pain or condition, green tea is a gift that can be used in many ways and in fact it is still researched and examined to see if there is more it can do.

For many in the west green tea is a blessing, the few last years has seen a sharp rise in the quantity of caffeine intake in most of the western world countries, as people drink more and more caffeine their bodies are becoming more dependent on it, and they are also responding to the huge amounts of caffeine in unnatural ways, many of us know the feeling of having too much coffee, and this is exactly why the green tea is so successful in the west, to relief westerners from the ever growing need of coffee.

There is no harm in drinking green tea and you may occasionally find a person who is treating himself by a green tea diet that lasts a few weeks, it has been found that green tea contains antioxidants that help the body regenerate energy and regain its power, it is true that this does not happen overnight, but when you start drinking green tea on a regular basis you will feel healthier almost immediately, especially if you are using green tea to avoid other, less healthier beverages or even behaviors.

Green tea is something westerners are not completely used to yet, and many have not even tasted green tea in their life, but the healthy quality that the tea has together with its ever growing reputation of being good for diet and for relaxation make sure that many will discover it soon, and these people may even be surprised at this alternative to the coffee and other caffeine loaded drinks.

Green tea is not the greatest drink in the world, but it can do only good, and a cup or two a day will only result in better life and wider smiles.
Green Tea Basics