Ayurvedic and Anti-Aging Herbs

Ayurveda is the oldest documented body of holistic medical knowledge, with a system of plant oils and herbs, originating in India over 6,000 years ago. While Ayurveda has many herbal formulas to rid the body of disease and keep it healthy, it also has a few special products for beauty. Herbal formulas to preserve beauty are listed in the texts of Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic recipes consisting of 16 Ayurvedic herbs (Kumkumadi) that act synergistically to cleanse, smoothen the appearance of aged skin, and impart overall radiance and luster. These are a combination of several herbal ingredients including rare saffron, turmeric, vetiver, lotus, extracts of Banyan tree, Manjishta- Rubia cordifolia, Daru haridra- Cocinum fenestratum, Jasadbhasma, sandlewood, Usiri, black cherry, blue lotus, Indian madder, milk, and licorice. The key ingredient, saffron, is considered a royal spice in Ayurveda.

The ingredients work synergistically to impart their herbal properties to beautify the skin.
Rare Saffron saturates the skin to give it a natural golden glow. Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus), a species of crocus in the Iridaceae.

Lotus, sandalwood, and vetiver plump the skin, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while extracts of Indian Madder and Banyan tree lighten the appearance of brown spots caused by acne scarring, the sun or aging.

Turmeric reduces inflammation of skin and prevents many skin ailments. The golden yellow powder acts as natural antibiotic and is good for acne. Texts of ayurveda praise the scar and blemish diminishing properties of turmeric. Consistent use of turmeric reduces stretch marks on the body.

Licorice, known for its antiseptic and microbial properties helps to protect blemish-prone skin from bacteria and other impurities. Usiri improves the complexion, and Sandlewood is cooling for the skin.

Jasadbhasma acts as a natural sunscreen, protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Home made beauty products can be made from the above ingredients. Two simple ones to try yourself, using ayurvedic principles:

1. Apply a paste of sandalwood powder, rose water and glycerin on your face and neck regularly. With this you can have a clear skin that looks younger and combats wrinkles.

2. Make a paste by using equal parts of sandalwood powder and turmeric powder in water and apply it over pimples. Wash off after 30 minutes. This mask can diminish acne and the appearance of blemishes. This mask is best for combination and oily skin.

The 16 herbs product, Kumkumadi, is to be applied and massaged into the skin for a few minutes, using gentle upward strokes. Results are typically seen in 3 months of use.

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3 Herbs to Boost Your Mood Naturally

Do you know a misery merchant? Just like your bank manager, a misery merchant always knows just how to bring you down. They're the sort of person that no matter what happens, always feels down, unhappy or blue?

While it is natural to have days when you're feeling a little out of sorts, regular problems with moods can really make life, well miserable... pardon the pun!

The long term solution for mood disorders and anxiety is to correct underlying nutritional deficiencies. Unfortunately, this is not always a quick process. This is where herbal medicine can help you to obtain short-term relief.

Sage - More Than Just Sore Throats

Sage is probably not the first herb that springs to mind for mood disorders; even most folk herbal remedies use sage more as a natural antiseptic in the treatment of sore throats and coughs. Sage though, has far more to offer than just this. Research is only now uncovering what the Chinese have known for centuries and sage is taking its rightful place as a powerful herb to support mood and nervous system function.

What really makes sage stand out from the crowd is its rapid action. Studies have shown reductions in stress and improvements in mood as quickly as one hour after taking the powdered form of the herb. Other mood boosting herbs require several days of consistent use and even then, only make their effects known gradually.

If you've ever tried sage tea, you will know it doesn't make the nicest brew. This taste though can easily be masked by the addition of other strong flavours such as peppermint or liquorice. Alternatively, some health food stores stock powdered sage in capsules that can make this herb a little easier on the stomach.

The use of sage oil internally and strong sage preparations should be avoided during pregnancy. It may also exacerbate some gastric disorders and complaints.

Passion flower - Beautiful & Effective

Passion flower has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and not just in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety. It has been suggested that the early North Americans used passion flower in the treatment of epilepsy; and like a lot of other herbs in human history, it didn't take long for us to figure out it could be smoked.

Research has shown passion flower's effectiveness on mood is not just folklore. Studies comparing passion flower extract with common pharmaceutical drugs used in mood disorders, have found it to offer similar results without the risk of addiction found in pharmaceutical medications. Anxiety, insomnia, and stress symptoms all responded equally well and results can be obtained in as little as two weeks of use.

Passion flower is readily available in most health food stores as either capsule or a loose leaf tea. Capsule and tablet forms are most effective for stress and anxiety, while the tea, particularly when prepared with valerian, is a great way to prepare for bed.

Guarana - Not Just a Quick Hit

Not just in energy drinks any more, guarana is increasingly found in herbal mood and anxiety formulas.

Most people are probably familiar with guarana as the healthy form of an energy drink. Did you know that in addition to giving a quick energy boost, guarana can also be beneficial for mood? It's not just a caffeine boost either, as lower doses have been shown to be more affective than higher doses.

The use of guarana in the treatment of mood can be controversial due to its stimulatory effect which can worsen symptoms for those that are already highly strung. It can however be useful where mood disorders are accompanied by high levels of fatigue or low energy and lethargy.

Make Sure to Consult a Naturopath

If you're affected by mood disorders or anxiety, it's important to consult with your Naturopath. While herbal remedies can provide short-term relief, lasting mood improvements will only come from addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies.

It is also important to ensure that your mood disorder, isn't related to a more complex condition requiring treatment from a qualified psychiatrist or counsellor.

Marianne Fernance is the founding Naturopath for Passion 4 Health in Brisbane, Australia.

For more informative articles on natural health go to our website at http://www.passion4health.com.au/articles.html.

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Treating Menopause With Herbs

Menopause is a condition that occurs in a woman's life around the age of 45 to 50. It is the period when the ovulation stops and so the menstruation cycle also stops. Menopause can cause serious fluctuations in the hormone levels and consequently lots of emotional and physical disturbances. The effects of menopause can reflect on the skin, hair, nails etc making the woman look older. This can add to the stress and trauma of the symptoms. The symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, palpitations, insomnia, joint pains, headaches, vaginal dryness etc. Added to this, are the emotional symptoms that are worse than the physical ones; irritability, depression, personality changes, suicidal ideations etc.

Eating foods that increase the estrogen levels can be helpful during menopause. Alfalfa, soy beans, soy sprouts, crushed flaxseeds, garlic, green beans, sesame seeds, wheat, yams, pumpkin seeds, cucumbers, corn, apples, anise seeds, cabbage, beetroots, olive oil, olives, papaya, oats, peas, sunflower seeds are all plants that contain estrogen and can also promote overall health. Including more of these foods in the diet can help ease out the symptoms of menopause. Celery, parsley and nuts can also be included in the diet to relieve the symptoms of menopause.

Evening primrose oil can also be beneficial during menopause. St.John's wort can help with the depression that is associated with menopause. Black cohosh is used to treat the hot flushes and night sweats that result due to this condition. Chasteberry is found to have positive results in improving the mood and irritability among women. Valerian and chamomile being a tranquilizers can deal with the associated insomnia. Ginseng is a herb that is known for its properties to relive stress and to impart a total sense of well being.

Carrot seeds boiled in milk can be taken as a regular drink during menopause. Milk and milk product consumption should increase to provide for the calcium needs. Beetroot juice is also a beneficial drink. Lots of green leafy vegetables can reduce the symptoms of menopause. Linseed is another home remedy for menopause. Licorice contains estrogen and is highly beneficial during menopause.

Almond oil mixed with geranium oil can be used for local application to reduce vaginal dryness. Aloe Vera gel is also help to deal with vaginal dryness. Calendula cream can relieve vaginal itching. Nettle leaves increases urination. Asparagus roots can promote a general well being for the female body.

A relaxed mind and a healthy body can fight menopause better than an instable mind and a weak body. Regular exercise, a positive attitude and a healthy diet can do wonders in the treatment of menopause. Menopause is not a disease; it is a condition that all women have to face. It is better for women to get prepared for it beforehand to be able to happily survive the turbulence caused by hormonal imbalances.

Sherlock Danielly is well know for his knowledge in herbal remedies. He had written much article on herbal remedies for depression,herbal remedies for arthritis, herbal remedies for menopause, herbal remedies for constipation, herbal vitamins etc.

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Herbs To Alleviate Panic And Anxiety Attacks

Just a little anxiety and stress are natural elements of our daily fast pace lives. However, some people have problems with strain turning into anxiety and panic.

Coping with stress and anxiety can now and again feel like a constant combat and a lot folks choose to discover natural solutions to manage it. However, most health professionals would love you to think that locating natural solutions to overcome your fear and anxiety is a mislead's errand. Actually, the procedure of trying to find natural solutions to treat anxiety and panic can frequently cause you to feel as if you are experiencing a panic attack since it can be extremely unfruitful.

Using healthy herbs are a part of the most effective solutions to help remedy the feelings of stress and anxiety.

Healthy herbal treatments are the initial varieties of treatment individuals found useful, given that they have been using them since the time of man. They are balanced with therapeutic benefits that do not make the unsafe unintended effects similar to most contemporary medicines. Here are a few in the list under.

Bugleweed helps by calming the nervous system and promoting sleep and relaxation. It is a purely natural tranquilizer. Use this herb to lower strain and worry from having a fast moving lifestyle and it could help you enjoy your activities significantly better.

Catnip in its mildest form is wonderful for curing moderate signs and symptoms of anxiety in youngsters and adults; it is effective for alleviating stress headaches.

Valerian root helps control sleeplessness by promoting sleep and is useful for lowering the probability of having panic and anxiety attacks. You could lessen your levels of fear and anxiety by having a great night of rest. This all natural herb can sooth your mind when consumed prior to going to sleep.

Damiana helps to relieve panic and anxiety by comforting the neural system. It is helpful for individuals who go through tension, stress and anxiety while being in packed sites or enclosed in sectors.

Also known as Winter Cherry, Ashwagandha not only enhances the defense mechanisms, but it also allows to balance pressure degrees. It is beneficial for getting rid of anxiety attacks since it gives a feeling of total wellbeing and personal worth.

Valerian root reduces the likelihood of getting another panic attack by managing sleeping disorders and promoting sleep at night. Getting sufficient rest and deep sleep always helps to reduce feelings of panic and anxiety. Use this herb to relaxed the thoughts before heading to your bed to sleep.

Winter Cherry or Ashwagandha helps raise the defense mechanisms and balance pressure levels. It gives a feeling of healthy well-being and great self-esteem and is useful for overcoming panic attacks.

There are various other herbs which can help you to lower panic disorder, hence whatever your symptoms, you are practically sure to find a healthy herb that will assist to further improve the quality of your health.

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Herbs That Can Reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Tension

Herbs have been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine and in herbalism. Herbs have been known to treat a variety of symptoms and diseases. Stress is the number one most serious health problem in America today. Due to the change in the majority of jobs from physical to mental aptitude its no wonder why Americans are so stressed out. In addition, the society is on the go 24/7 leaving no time for people to relax, rest or shut off their brains. Not to mention that the pressure and mounting economic problems that we are facing in this day in age is one for the record books. With all this stress we become physically, emotionally and mentally unbalanced. To maintain, restore and prevent further chronic stressful influence on our mind and body, herbs are the perfect remedy to balance the body's nervous system.

Herbs can be categorized in three types adaptogen, tonic, and nervine herbs. Adaptogenic herbs help the body adapt to stress through balancing the nervous system. Tonic herbs strengthen the organs and bodies system to prepare for stress. Tonic nerves are able to increase or decrease the activity of the bodily processes in a specific system.Nervine herbs heal the damage caused by stress and combat further stressful influence. Nervine herbs can be distinguished as a sedative to relax and calm the nerves or as a stimulant to perk up energy. Most herbs fit into more than one category or type of herb giving it increased ability to relieve, reduce and alleviate symptoms, illnesses and disease.

Due to the fact that herbs generally correlate to specific areas or systems of the body, there are a large number of herbs that can relieve stress and anxiety. Here you can find a few of these herbs and how they affect the body.

ADAPTOGEN:

Ginseng- There are several kinds of ginseng however three can be helpful at reducing stress, Siberian, Korean or Panax and Indian or Ashwagandha ginseng are all good at normalizing the body in times of stress. Ginseng is an adaptogen and a tonic, which protects the body against stress. Ginseng regulates the circulatory and immune systems, which help to support the body in times of stress. Ginseng is a popular herbal supplement for athletes because it improves performance, increases stamina, improves recovery time and boosts ones immunity.

Maitake- Maitake is a mushroom that grows in clusters at the base of trees. It has been used in Chinese medicine as an adaptogen to enhance the immune system. Research has also indicated that it can be used to regulate blood pressure, glucose, insulin, and both serum and liver lipids, such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids, and may also be useful for weight loss.

Gotu Kola- Gotu Kola has a triple effect as an adaptogen, tonic and nervine herb. Gotu Kola rejuvenates the skin by stimulating repair, growth and strengthening. It also helps with stress coping and reducing anxiety. Gotu Kola improves concentration and memory.

Wild Yam- The Wild Yam is an adaptogen and nervine, which targets the muscles and skeletal system. It acts as a muscle relaxer to reduce inflammation. It also is toted as an antispasmodic, antiheumatic, hepatic, diaphoretic, and reduces nausea during pregnancy.

Licorice Root- Licorice root is an adaptogen and tonic for the respiratory and immune systems. Licorice root helps regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. It helps the body to handle stress by normalizing blood sugar levels as well as adrenal glands, and stimulates cranial and cerebrospinal fluid. Licorice root boosts energy, calms the mind and is soothing to the body.

TONIC

Red Clover- Red clover is a digestive tonic and a skin nervine herb. Red clover contains a natural plant estrogen called phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens maintain proper skin and bone health. If ingested it cleanses the blood and detoxifies the tissues. Additional estrogen in the body can alleviate high stress symptoms and reduce cholesterol.

Chamomile- Chamomile is a digestive tonic and sedative nervine herb. It was originally used to reduce fevers. Now it has been proven to be one of the safest herbs on the market for relaxation and calming effects. Chamomile has a restorative effect on the body by enhancing the metabolism, treating a nervous stomach and depressing the central nervous system. As a tranquilizer, chamomile enhances sleep and feelings of relaxation. Its properties include anti-inflammatory, anti anxiety, antihistamine, antioxidant and antispasmodic.

St. John's Wort- St. John's wort is a stimulating tonic herb. It also is a functional nervine with respect to the integumentary system. St. John's wort specifically helps the pituitary gland, which regulates the secretion of six hormones that regulate homeostasis. St. John's wort helps to break down excess quantities of the stress hormone norepinephrine that get excreted into the bloodstream during stressful situations. In this way it helps to treat stress, anxiety, depressive disorders and mental disorders.

Skullcap- Skullcap is a tonic and nervine herb that can be used for relaxation without a sedative effect. Skullcap is the best nourishing tonic for the nervous system. It strengthens and supports the nervous system. It slows down the nerves to calm and sooth the body and brain. Skullcap is great for muscles spasms, headaches, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, hysteria, exhaustion, depression and nervous tension. As an anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic it decreases fevers, enhances digestion, and stimulates liver function.

Motherwort- Motherwort works on the circulatory, respiratory, reproductive, and nervous systems as a tonic and nervine herb. Motherwort stimulates circulation to strengthen the heart. It quiets the nerves, promotes relaxation, and relieves stress.

Lemon Balm- Lemon balm is a sedative nervine and tonic herb that calms and regulates the nervous system. By inhaling the aroma of lemon balm you will reduce your blood pressure, calm palpitations, reduce rapid breathing, decrease digestive spasms, eliminate nausea and indigestion, relieve migraines and combat fever. It relieves anxiety, dispels sadness, and uplifts the spirit. Lemon balm also has antibacterial, antiviral and antihistamine characteristics.

NERVINE:

Kava Kava- Kava Kava is a nervine herb from Melanesia. Kava Kava treats anxiety and depression, relieves stress and insomnia. It also doubles as a powerful muscle relaxer, tranquilizer and analgesic, although it is not addictive. Kava Kava works subtly to relax the entire body.

Hops- Hops is a nervine herb that acts as a sedative. Its has a calming and relaxing effect on the Central nervous system to ease restless tension, irritability, nervous system disorders, indigestion, and insomnia.

Passion Flower- Passion flower has a mild tranquilized effect as a sedative nervine herb. It relaxes blood vessel spasms, decreases migraines, promotes sleep, treats anxiety, insomnia, depression, and nervousness. Passion flower has a calming effect without feeling like one is sedated. This herb calms the body and also is effective as a painkiller.

Lavender- Lavender is known to be the most calming herb today. Just smelling this herb can relax the mind and body by reducing irritability, anxiety, stress and tension. Lavender is a nervine herb with powerful sedative capabilities to promote relaxation, enhance sleep, balance hormones, relax muscles, and stimulate the immune system. It also has healing benefits as a digestive aid. Lavender decreases the stress hormone cortisol levels to slow the brain waves, which reduces stress, nervousness, agitation and promotes a sense of calm.

Valerian- Valerian is a sedative nervine used to relax the nervous system. Its ingredients are comparable to prescription grade sedatives given out by physicians. Valerian decreases stress levels, alleviates anxiety, improves sleep, calms nerves, and decreases tension and irritability. Valerian is ideal for those who also suffer from nervous muscle spasm.

Oats (Avena Sativa)- Oats or wild oats are a functional nervine that nourishes the nervous system. This herb can alleviate mild depression, balance sugar levels, help nervous exhaustion and weakness and relieves stress. As an anti-inflammatory and high in mineral content, oats sooth inflamed skin and strengthen the nervous system

Graduated with a BA in exercise science and have worked in the medical field since. My focus is alternative medicine however all aspects of health interest me. Check out my health website! http://www.universalhealthinfo.com/Herbs_To_Reduce_Stress.html

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Natural Herbs for Allergies - Treat Allergies Without Medication

Modern medicine has made many advances over the years in treating allergy symptoms. Sometimes the cure may be worse than the illness. Many decongestants will lead to a dry mouth and a rise in blood pressure. Antihistamines tend to make you drowsy and groggy.

Are there any natural herbs that will help treat the symptoms of allergies without all of the unpleasant side effects? The good news is that you can find many natural herbs for allergies that will offer relief from your symptoms the holistic way. Natural herbs that will actually help to prevent the symptoms rather than treating them once they start. This can be an effective way of managing many of the seasonal allergies that a number of people suffer from.

I have heard about antihistamines, but what are they?

Antihistamines prevent the body from producing histamines. Histamines are a chemical by product when antibodies attack a foreign substance in the body. For allergy suffers, the body has mistakenly identified a benign substance to be a threat to the body. The immune system has created an antibody to attack and destroy this threat. Histamines create the allergy symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes and coughing, so when your body cannot produce as many, your symptoms are reduced as well.

Herbal Antihistamines

Stinging Nettle - This herb works very well as a natural antihistamine, without the drowsiness that comes from using many of the over-the-counter medicines that are available. Stinging nettle can be purchased in capsule form from many natural food and vitamin stores today.

Butterbur - Another herbal antihistamine, which is a harder herb to come by in the United States, but nevertheless effective as a natural means of treating allergies.

Quercetin - Is another good natural herb for allergies, and has the added benefit of acting as a natural antioxidant that can reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Plantain - Has been used for a long time in treating respiratory complaints including cough and inflammation. It also has anti-catarrhal and antispasmodic properties.

Chamomile - According to German studies it may slow allergic reactions, such as those that trigger asthma attacks, by increasing the adrenal glands' production of cortisone, which reduces lung inflammation and makes breathing easier.

Before taking a natural herb to treat your allergies, consult with your allergy doctor before taking anything. Some herbs can have side effects with other herbs. They can also have potentially dangerous interactive effects when taken with other over the counter and prescription medicines.

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Spices vs. Herbs: What's the Difference?

Spices and herbs are common in most foods around the world today. Both are used to flavor foods and some for medicinal purposes. Herbs and spices have both been prominent throughout human history. In earlier times, herbs and spices were considered luxuries and only available for the use of the wealthy. Herbs and spices were also traded frequently between nations in medieval times. Many people do not know the difference between an herb and a spice. There are many similarities between the two, and some of the differences are very subtle, but they are still valid.

The essential difference between an herb and a spice is where it is obtained from on a plant. Herbs usually come from the leafy part of a plant, and are usually dried. However, some herbs can be used fresh. Spices can be obtained from seeds, fruits, roots, bark, or some other vegetative substance. Spices are not necessarily as fresh as some herbs can be. Herbs can be found many places around the world, while spices are more commonly found in the Far East and tropical countries. Herbs are considered to have a few more uses than spices. For instance, herbs have been used more frequently than spices in the medical field. Also, herbs can and have been used to augment cosmetics and preserve foods.

Some argue that there is no distinction between herbs and spices, considering both have similar uses. However, a botanical definition reveals that an herb is a plant that doesn't produce a woody stem. It is common knowledge that in certain areas of the United States, a dried herb is considered to be a spice. This leads to more confusion because if a spice is simply an herb, then there cannot be a difference between the two. However, believing this is ignoring the fact that many herbs tend to be leafy green substances and spices are found in plants that are tropical in nature.

Because herbs and spices have so many uses and are great food flavorings, they have played important roles throughout history. The Portuguese navigator, Vasco Da Gama, sailed to India in search of spices. Even Christopher Columbus described the types of spices available in the "new world" to investors after he landed. Herbs have been used throughout history for medicinal purposes. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbology (the study of herbs for medical purposes) has been used for thousands of years.

The debate between herbs and spices is ongoing. Some say that there is no difference, while others maintain that they are both completely different. Most learned scholars will say that the difference between an herb and a spice is found in where the herb or spice is obtained on the plant, and where that specific plant can be found.

Sam Herbert recommends the Monterey Bay Spice Company for bulk herbs.

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Antiviral Herbs

There are many fantastic antiviral herbs. This is good news for those who want to take better care of their health and combat illness without the use of pharmaceuticals. Here we will talk about the best natural antivirals and their attributes.

Some of the best antiviral herbs include oregano, echinacea, garlic, astragalus, schizandra, elderberry, mullein, licorice, and green tea.

* Oregano has been used for hundreds of years to fight viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. This is a well known herb for seasoning food, particularly Italian dishes. However, this is a powerful foe against germs.

* Echinacea is well known for its ability to boost the immune system. It is said to stimulate white blood cell production, thus helping the body to fight viruses more effectively. This herb is best taken early on when an infection is first suspected for best results.

* Garlic is a very powerful antiviral herb that is very effective when used to fight the common cold and flu viruses as well as strep and staph infections. Garlic is wonderfully aromatic and is best consumed fresh, but it is also available in capsule and tablet form for those who want its health benefits without the garlic breath.

* Astragalus is another excellent immune strengthener and a very effective antiviral herb for combating the common cold and flu.

* Schizandra is one of the lesser known herbal antivirals which has been found to be very successful when treating viral hepatitis.

* Elderberry has been used as an herbal remedy against various viral infections for thousands of years. It is beneficial in fighting colds, flus, and upper respiratory infections. Typically, elderberry is most effective in lozenge and syrup form.

* Mullein provides antiviral, anti-inflammatory, calming, and expectorant properties, among other benefits. It is an excellent herbal choice for those suffering with congestion.

* Licorice is another excellent antiviral herb that is very effective against viruses and bacteria as well as fungal infections. Individuals with hypertension should avoid taking licorice.

* Green tea has been found effective in preventing the spread of the flu virus as well as promoting overall good health due to its high levels of antioxidants and catechins ECG and EGCG.

Antiviral Essential Oils
Some wonderful antiviral essential oils include eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, juniper oil, and lemon balm oil. These are helpful to use along with the above herbs when fighting a viral illness.

* Eucalyptus oil contains known antiviral compounds to help speed healing. Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath and breathe in the steam to help ease congestion. Can also be used in massage oil or applied to pulse points.

* Tea tree oil is another effective antiviral essential oil and can be applied full strength to external areas or gargled in water for sore throat.

* Juniper oil is a potent antiviral that has been found effective against the herpes and flu viruses. It can be used in a diffuser, as a massage oil, or in a soothing bath.

* Lemon balm oil has many uses, including treatment of cold sores and genital sores caused by the herpes simplex virus and is effective for keeping the virus from spreading. Lemon balm oil can be used topically, in a diffuser, or taken internally.

For more about antiviral herbs, please visit http://www.herbal-treatment-remedies.com/antiviral-herbs.html.

Shelly Morgan loves learning about herbal remedies and which ones work best for common conditions. Visit Herbal Treatment Remedies at http://www.herbal-treatment-remedies.com/index.html.

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Make Your Dried Herbs

If you decide to make some dried herbs for your kitchen, the best period to collect your herbs is in the late summer because some herbs begin to decline with the weather turning cool. During the day, morning will be best harvest time to pick up your herbs. When you do the cutting work in your garden, remember to take a good look at the health status of your chosen herb and remove the diseased leaves and insects. Before the drying process, you should tie several branches into a branch. You'd better use a rubber band as the whole branch will shrink when they are dried and the rubber band can still keep the branch tight compared with other strings. Then you should wrap up the whole branch using paper and wait until the moisture is gone.

The easiest and efficient way to make your dried herbs is using the air. However, this process may be a long time and some herbs oils may also not be fully depleted as well. The air drying process is suitable for some herbs with "dry" characteristics such as Rosemary, Thyme and Summer Savory. If the plants you are going to dry have high moisture substances like Basil and Mint, you'd better make use of a dehydrator to do the job. A microwave oven can also be used to dry the herbs, but it is more like a cooking process which help to remove the oily elements of the herb.

The dried herbs must be stored in containers which are properly sealed. Some small sized-jars can be used to facilitate categorization and labelling. When you put labels on your jars, be sure to put date on it for reference. To keep the flavor longer, you should store the whole leaves together instead of separate them. Also you should keep an eye on the status of your dried herbs, and discarded those which looks like to grow mold. Your herb containers should be put in a cool and shaded place to avoid direct sunlight. As your herbs may lose its qualities (color and flavor) with the time passing by, they should be consumed as quick as possible (less than a year).

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Herbs and Spices - Secret From Restaurants

How to Store Herbs and Spices:

You should always remember to keep your spices in a cool and dark place. You do not want to keep them in a humid place full of light and exposed to heat because they tend to lose their flavor quicker. Many people like to keep their spice rack on or above their stoves, but if you are one of those people, you might want to consider moving them to a different place to keep their flavor and freshness longer. I recommend to storing you herbs and spices in a refrigerator due to the level of humidity. However, if you want to store large quantities of herbs and spices, I recommend you store them in a freezer in a tightly sealed container to keep them fresh.

As a rule of thumb, I know that spices retain their best flavor for a year. However, it may be a bit longer for whole spices; some retain their flavor for up to three to five years. The better you store it, the longer they will keep their flavor and freshness.

A tip for whole spices is to grind them in a grinder or mortar and pestle before using them. In addition, if you toast whole spices in a dry skillet on medium heat before grinding them will bring out even more flavor; do be careful not to burn them.

Tips on How Use Herbs and Spices:

When you are seasoning your food with spices, try to use a light hand, remember your goal is to compliment your dish, not crowd out the flavor in your food. Note: it is almost impossible to remove the spice from a dish, so make good decisions when adding spices to your meals.

As a rule of thumb, when doing long-cooking dishes, try to add your herbs and spices at least an hour or less before serving. If you over cook spices, they might release overly strong flavors. Also, crush dried herbs finely before you add them to your dish (after you measure them.)

You do not want to measure your dried herbs the same as your fresh herbs. Another rule of thumb to use is to use 1/3 of the amount in dried herbs as is called for fresh herbs.

Remember to keep things simple. Unless you have a recipe that specifically states otherwise, do not use more than three different herbs and spices in one dish. Of course, as many of you may know, an exception to the rule is Indian food; they usually call for 10 or more different spices at times, in a one single dish.

Some good after cooking spices are black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. People are usually fussy about what spices they put on their food so you might want to have these spices available at the table.

Here are some spices that give another taste to your food without ruining them. For example, if you want to add some variety to your cooking, you might want to start by replacing oregano for marjoram, thyme for savory, parsley for cilantro, and there is so much more you can do.

Ready to start cooking like never before? Consider how much it costs you to get a decent meal now a days, and if you like eating out it can translate to hundreds of dollars every month. Click here and get Instant Access to over 300 secret recipes NOW!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carlos_F_Lopez

Four Herbs Perfect for Indoor Gardening

Two of the simple pleasures of life are herbs and indoor gardening.

Herbs provide for more savory dishes as well as a healthy mind and body through herbal medicines and teas.

• Indoor gardening brings the beauty of the outdoors to the comfort of the indoors as well as provide pleasure for avid gardeners who have less space and time to work with than their full-time counterparts.

Starting an indoor herb garden is also very easy when you come to think of it.

• You only need to choose a location with plenty of sunlight, containers with good drainage, good potting soil and organic fertilizers and, of course, right choice of herbs. Well, here are five easy-to-grow herbs that you can start with.

Basil

This is probably one of the easiest herbs to care for as it can thrive with very minimal care.

• However, just like most herbs, basil requires plenty of sunlight to grow well.
• Thus, you must place it in an area receiving maximum sunlight such as a window facing the south or the west.
• If this is not possible, you should purchase grow lights or use ordinary fluorescent lights to replace natural sunlight.

Basil has bright green leaves that add beauty to a kitchen windowsill and add flavor to Italian dishes especially pasta. Its flavor has been compared to sweet peppers.

Cilantro

This herb can be grown indoors under certain conditions.

• It must receive at least four hours of bright sunlight daily, its soil is kept moist at all times and its leaves are harvested regularly.
• Just be sure to pick the leaves or snip off the stem as you need it but leave the rest of the plant as it is.

Cilantro has a distinctive and pungent earthy flavor that has been compared to a blend of sage and lemon.

• Its bold, lingering flavor highlights the savory taste of curries, stir fries and soups as well as salads, sauces and vegetable dishes.

Dill

The dill is the easiest herb to grow because it can germinate quickly, grow quickly and be harvested quickly in a few weeks' time.

• However, it needs plenty of sunlight during the daytime hours so be sure to provide said source of nourishment.

Dill is very aromatic but can quickly lose its flavor during the drying and cooking processes.

• Thus, freezing them and adding them just before the dish is to be cooked are the best ways to ensure that the herb retains its flavor.

Rosemary

This is an herb that is beautiful, durable and useful, in a manner of speaking. Rosemary is attractive with its flowers in white, pink, purple or blue and evergreen foliage, it stands out in an indoor garden.

• It is also resistant to dry soil and pests, which makes it very durable indeed. Juts make sure that you grow it on neutral to alkaline soil with average fertility.

And with its culinary and medicinal values, rosemary definitely has its fair share of uses. You can use it in many Mediterranean cuisines as well as in barbecues, thanks to its bitter, astringent flavor.

• With these four herbs, you can now cook your flavorful dishes while enjoying the view of nature from your kitchen windowsill even when you are amidst high-rise buildings.

Now, that is truly enjoying the simple pleasures of life!

Whitney Segura is an expert gardener and owner of Our Crazy Deals, a company that manufacturers and distributes indoor greenhouses, hydroponics equipment, compost bin tumblers, garden containers, and many other gardening accessories in the United States.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Whitney_Segura

Herbs for Hypothyroidism - Do They Really Work?

Can hypothyroidism be treated with herbs? Yes indeed. Anyone suffering from hypothyroidism can control the symptoms by using certain medicinal herbs. For most of these herbs, the main constituent is iodine, this is an important trace element required by thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency in the body is one major cause of hypothyroidism.

The followings are some of the herbs that can be used to control your hypothyroidism

Bladderwrack

This herb is very important because it contains iodine and helps to stimulate thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. It can be taken as a tincture or with a tea. Drink a cup of tea with added 2 teaspoon of dried bladderwrack at least twice in a day. This will help to alleviate the symptoms due to iodine deficiency in the body.

Black Cohosh

This herb is very useful for treating heavy menstrual period associated with hypothyroidism. It is equally useful for maintaining the oestrogen level and therefore helps for treating infertility in women.

Cayenne

This is a multipurpose herb and is very important in blood circulation and maintaining healthy heart. It can be used for controlling intolerance to cold which is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.

Guggul

This herb helps to stimulate the thyroid gland in order to increase production of thyroid hormone, thyroxine, T4, and triiodothyronine, T3.

Kelp

This herb is rich in iodine and helps in proper functioning of thyroid gland.

There are other important herbs that can be used to treat your hypothyroidism and these include hypericum, Iceland moss, Ashwagandha root, Irish moss and water cress. These herbs are very easy to use and are readily available in form of pills or powdered form at major retail stores. However, it is essential that you seek medical advice before start using any of these herbs.

Herbs to Avoid

When you are suffering from hypothyroidism, it is important that you stay away from certain foods, medicine and herbs. This is because they can aggravate thyroid malfunction and lead to very low thyroid hormone production. You need to avoid these herbs; ginger, lemon, motherwort, astragalus and wheat grass. Similarly, you should avoid vegetables such as cauliflower and mustard green. You should also reduce excessive intake of refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol.

To learn more about herbs for hypothyroidism and other natural Natural Remedies For Hypothyroidism including appropriate diet, vitamin supplements and body exercises such that you can control your thyroid and live a healthy life, visit http://www.squidoo.com/natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willie_Aris

The Natural Benefits Of Herbs And Spices

Seasonings has been an essential component of most people daily diet plan, but are you aware that there are amazing health benefits to be gained from spices? Well, you should know that herbs and spices contain an abundant of nutritional benefits since they are nature's best sources of anti-oxidants. Herbal antioxidants are nutrient substances present in almost all plant foods, plus it is also produced in our body.

Essentially, antioxidants are needed to protect body cells against oxidative strains because of free radical problems. These free radicals are actually highly reactive oxygen compounds within our cells and is produced as a by-product of your metabolism( having a excess amount of free radicals is viewed as the main reason for the process of aging.)

Using antioxidants to protect against these free radicals will be the most beneficial way to lower the risk of numerous health conditions linked to aging. Some great benefits of antioxidants include effective defense against all sorts of degenerative conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, macular degeneration, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and more.

One of the best ways to get a good amount of antioxidants will be to eat a substantial amount of antioxidant-rich meals. In general, the strong flavored and deep colored vegetables and fruits include the largest amount of antioxidants. But, most people don't that the culinary spices and herbs include much better concentrations and varieties of antioxidants when compared with any kind of vegetable or fruit. They generally have a particularly extensive selection of antioxidants, which tends to make them highly effective at combating many kinds of free radicals within the body.

Just about all the spices include chemicals which help to safeguard the body from ailments and oftentimes could be utilized as powerful treatments for pre-existing diseases. Generally, individuals who eat plenty spicy foods daily also have really low incidences of cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's and various other degenerative conditions which have been widespread throughout the United States and many other Western countries.

For more great tips on the health benefits of herbs and spices visit http://www.herbandspiceshop.com/.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colin_Scott