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A

Acai : (ah-sai-ee) -

Euterpe oleracea
Botanical name:
Euterpe oleracea - Named after the famous Greek muse Euterpe
Classification:
Perennial
Common names:
Acai Palm,
Acai Berry,
Jussara,
Viagra da Amazonia,
i�·-�ai,
Iaca

Part we use:

• berries,
• seeds,
• roots

Location:

The Acai palm trees are indigenous to the Amazonian rainforests; most commonly found in northern Brazil.

Constituents:

• protein: (any of a large group of nitrogenous organic compounds that are essential constituents of living cells; consist of polymers of amino acids; essential in the diet of animals for growth and for repair of tissues; can be obtained from meat and eggs and milk and legumes; "a diet high in protein")
• calcium: S: (n) calcium, Ca, atomic number 20 (a white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals)
• potassium: S: (n) potassium K, atomic number 19 (a light soft silver-white metallic element of the alkali metal group; oxidizes rapidly in air and reacts violently with water; is abundant in nature in combined forms occurring in sea water and in carnallite and kainite and sylvite)
• phosphorus: S: (n) phosphorus, P, atomic number 15 (a multivalent nonmetallic element of the nitrogen family that occurs commonly in inorganic phosphate rocks and as organic phosphates in all living cells; is highly reactive and occurs in several allotropic forms) S: (n) morning star, daystar, Phosphorus, Lucifer (a planet (usually Venus) seen just before sunrise in the eastern sky)
• Vitamin A: S: (n) vitamin A, antiophthalmic factor, axerophthol, A (any of several fat-soluble vitamins essential for normal vision; prevents night blindness or inflammation or dryness of the eyes)
• Vitamin E: S: (n) vitamin E, tocopherol, E (a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body)
• Vitamin C: (Ascorbic Acid): Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin that has a wide range of functions in the human body.
• Bitamin B6: (Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin and is part of the vitamin B complex. Vitamin B6 plays a role in the synthesis of antibodies by the immune system, which are needed to fight many diseases. It helps maintain normal nerve function and also acts in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 is also required for the chemical reactions needed to digest proteins. The higher the protein intake, the more the need for vitamin B6
• Fiber: the non-digestible carbohydrates of foods found in foods such as whole grain products, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (such as dry beans and peas) that may promote regularity and as part of a healthy diet may decrease your risk for some diseases.
• iron: Iron, one of the most abundant metals on Earth, is essential to most life forms and to normal human physiology. Iron is an integral part of many proteins and enzymes that maintain good health. In humans, iron is an essential component of proteins involved in oxygen transport [1,2]. It is also essential for the regulation of cell growth and differentiation [3,4]. A deficiency of iron limits oxygen delivery to cells, resulting in fatigue, poor work performance, and decreased immunity [1,5-6]. On the other hand, excess amounts of iron can result in toxicity and even death [7]. Almost two-thirds of iron in the body is found in hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues. Smaller amounts of iron are found in myoglobin, a protein that helps supply oxygen to muscle, and in enzymes that assist biochemical reactions. Iron is also found in proteins that store iron for future needs and that transport iron in blood. Iron stores are regulated by intestinal iron absorption [1,8].
• amino acids: The essential building blocks of Proteins, nine of which cannot be manufactured by the body and therefor have to be obtained through food intake.
• aspartic acid: S: (n) aspartic acid (a crystalline amino acid found in proteins and occurring naturally in sugar beets and sugar cane)
• palmitic acid: S: (n) palmitic acid, hexadecanoic acid (a saturated fatty acid that is the major fat in meat and dairy products)
• glutamic acid: S: (n) glutamic acid, glutaminic acid (an amino acid occurring in proteins; important in the nitrogen metabolism of plants; used in monosodium glutamate to enhance the flavor of meats)
• oleic acid: S: (n) oleic acid (a colorless oily liquid occurring as a glyceride; it is the major fatty acid in olive oil and canola oil; used in making soap and cosmetics and ointments and lubricating oils)
• linoleic acid: S: (n) linolenic acid (a liquid polyunsaturated fatty acid that occurs in some plant oils; an essential fatty acid)
• sitosterol, Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol (also known as a phytoestrogen), which is a plant-derived estrogen. Some phytoestrogens seem to play a role in inhibiting the bodyís absorption of cholesterol absorption. There is also some evidence (although inconclusive) to suggest phytoestrogens might fight certain types of cancer. Phytoestrogens do not, however, increase the natural levels of estrogen in the body.
• polyphenols, Compounds found in many plant foods that are known to have antioxidant activity, which may help our bodies fight the damage inflicted by free radicals.
• anthocyanins, Anthocyanins are versatile and plentiful flavonoid pigments found in red/purplish fruits and vegetables, including purple cabbage, beets, blueberries, cherries, raspberries and purple grapes. Within the plant they serve as key antioxidants and pigments contributing to the coloration of flowers. Our online experiments archive includes instructions for using red cabbage juice as a pH indicator, and answers in our archives describe how to perform pigment chromatography.
• antioxidant, An enzyme or other organic molecule that can counteract the damaging effects of oxygen in tissues. Although the term technically applies to molecules reacting with oxygen, it is often applied to molecules that protect from any free radical (molecules with unpaired electron).
• superoxide, S: (n) superoxide, superoxide anion (the univalent anion O2-) "much of the O2 supporting cellular respiration is reduced to the superoxide anion O2-"

Medicinal Benefits:

• weight loss,
• immune system booster,
• increases energy,
• tissue rejuvenator,
• anti- ageing,
• lowers LDL cholesterol levels,
• benefits digestive system,
• anti-cancer, anti-bacterial,
• aids in healing urinary tract infections,
• ulcers,
• blood sugar regulator

Background:

Acai is a palm tree that grows most commonly in the northern part of Brazil. It is also known by the local natives as the weeping/crying fruit.

Sprouted Alfalfa Leaf - Medicago sativa L.

Botanical name:
Medicago sativa L.
Classification:
Perennial
Parts we use:
dried leaves,
stems,
unopened flowers,
sprouted buds.

Constituents:

• carotenoids, Any of a class of yellow to red pigments found especially in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. Carotenoids generally consist of conjoined units of the hydrocarbon isoprene, with alternating single and double bonds. The carotenoids absorb light energy of certain frequencies and transfer it to chlorophyll for use in photosynthesis. They also act as antioxidants for chlorophyll, protecting it from damage by oxidation in the presence of sunlight. Carotenoids are nutritionally important for many animals, giving flamingoes their color, for example, and also have antioxidant properties. There are many types of carotenoids, including carotenes and xanthophylls.
• phyto-chemicals, Phytonutrients are naturally occurring components of plants that may have a role in human health. Some phytochemicals, such as vitamin C and E, folate, and beta-carotene, are universally recognized as playing an important role in the maintenance of health. However, it's the possible link between cancer prevention and many less understood phytonutrients, such as lycopene in tomatoes and isoflavones in soy beans that has generated interest among consumers. While scientists welcome an increased awareness of the role of plant-based foods in health, they are concerned that publicity over these 'new' phytonutrients is far ahead of the science. They caution that the beneficial compounds must be clearly identified, their mode of action understood, and a safe and effective dose established before dietary recommendations can be safely made. Fortunately, it is easy for most Americans to increase their intake of phytonutrients by simply eating at least the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables and six servings of whole grain foods and cereals per day. These low-fat foods are not only packed with phytonutrients, but also provide dietary fiber, protein, and carbohydrates essential to good health.
• Vitamin C,
• Vitamin E,
• Vitamin K, S: (n) vitamin K, naphthoquinone, antihemorrhagic factor (a fat-soluble vitamin that helps in the clotting of blood)
• calcium,
• magnesium, S: (n) magnesium, Mg, atomic number 12 (a light silver-white ductile bivalent metallic element; in pure form it burns with brilliant white flame; occurs naturally only in combination (as in magnesite and dolomite and carnallite and spinel and olivine))
• potassium,
• Amino Acids,
• chlorophyll, S: (n) chlorophyll, chlorophyl (any of a group of green pigments found in photosynthetic organisms; there are four naturally occurring forms)

Medicinal benefits:

• benefits kidney
• bladder
• urinary tract
• prostrate.
• kidney stones
• stomachic
• diuretic
• appetite stimulant
• detoxificant
• balances the liver
• supports thyroid
• creates estrogen
• balances female moon cycle
• regulation.

B

Bayberry - Myrica cerifra

Botanical name:
Myrica cerifra
Common names:
Candleberry,
wax myrtle
Southern waxmyrtle,
waxberry,
tallow berry,
candleberry,
tallow shrub,
candleberry myrtle
northern bayberry
small waxberry.

Medicinal benefits:

• astringent A substance or preparation, such as alum, that draws together or constricts body tissues and is effective in stopping the flow of blood or other secretions.
• ntibacterial Destroying or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Location:

The bayberry is native in sandy swamps or wet woods from New Brunswick south to Florida. Myrica cerifera is found as far west as Texas and Arkansas while M. carolinensis is common in bogs in northern New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Background:

The southern waxmyrtle is a shrub or slender tree up to 40 feet high. The leaves are from 1 to 4 inches long, narrow, wedge-shaped, entire or with a few teeth, and have a fragrant odor when crushed. The flowers appear from March to May, according to locality, generally before the leaves are fully expanded. Male and female flowers are borne on separate trees, the male flowers in cylindrical yellow clusters and the female flowers in green somewhat shorter clusters. The fruit, which remains on the tree for several years, consists of clusters of round, 1-seeded, somewhat berrylike nuts covered with a whitish wax. Northern bayberry is a shrub 8 feet high or less, with broader and blunter leaves.

Part We Use:

The bark of the root, collected in late autumn. After thorough cleansing and while still fresh the bark is loosened and removed by heating the root. The wax obtained from the berries, used for making bayberry candles, is also an article of commerce.

C

Calendula - Calendula officinalis

Botanical name:
Calendula officinalis
Common names:
Calendula
Pot marigold

Constituents

• Antibacterial
• Diaphoretic S: (n) diaphoretic (used to produce perspiration)
• Febrifuge S: (n) antipyretic, febrifuge (any medicine that lowers body temperature to prevent or alleviate fever)
• Vulnerary An agent or herb used for healing wounds, fresh cuts, etc., usually used as a poultice
• Astringent
• Antifungal An agent that inhibits the growth or multiplication of fungi, or kills them outright.
• Anti-inflammatory Reducing or neutralizing inflammation.
• Emmenagogue A substance that promotes or assists the flow of menstrual fluid.

Medicinal benefits:

• bruises,
• mouth sores,
• cuts,
• eczema
• scrapes,
• wounds,
• psoriasis,
• pink eye
• allergies,
• gastritis,
• irritable bowel syndrome,
• reduces inflammation,
• aids in digestion,
• yeasts infection.

D

Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale

Botanical name:
Taraxacum officinale
Common names:
Dandelion,
Priest's crown,
Swine's Snout

Constituents:

• taraxacin Taraxacin is a bitter substance found in the milky juice of the dandelion. It was formerly used as a tonic and diuretic.
• triterpenes One of a class of compounds having molecular skeletons containing 30 carbon atoms, and theoretically composed of six isoprene units; numerous and widely distributed in nature, occurring principally in plant resins and sap; an example is ambrein.
• taraxol is a triterpene found in dandelion root.
• taraxasterol Substantial attention has been given to primary cancer prevention in daily life. Dietary factors are through to contribute to as much as one-third of the factors influencing the development of cancer. Ones of the components of a plant-based diet are beta-sitosterol and taraxasterol, compounds attracting our specific attention. This review summarizes the biological activities of presented phytosterols (anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal effects). Our interest has been focussed especially on their anti-tumor and chemopreventive activity. They have been shown experimentally to inhibit colon and breast cancer development. They act at various stages of tumor development, including inhibition of tumorigenesis, inhibition of tumor promotion, and induction of cell differentiation. They effectively inhibit invasion of tumor cells and metastasis. With regard to toxicity, no obvious side effects of phytosterols have been observed in studies to date, with the exception of individuals with phytosterolemia. The exact mechanism by which dietary phytosterols act is not fully understood. However, some mechanisms have been offered. Therefore, they have a bright future in clinical application. Further investigation to explore their potential in tumor treatment may prove to be worthwhile.
• inulin Soluble but undigested polymer of fructose found particularly in Jerusalem artichoke, and, to a lesser extent, other root vegetables. Included with non-starch polysaccharides (dietary fibre). Also called dahlin and alant starch.
• sugar A sweet crystalline or powdered substance, white when pure, consisting of sucrose
• pectin Any of a group of water-soluble colloidal carbohydrates of high molecular weight found in ripe fruits, such as apples, plums, and grapefruit, and used to jell various foods, drugs, and cosmetics.
• glycosides A large important class of sugar derivatives in which the sugar is combined with a nonsugar.
• choline S: (n) choline (a B-complex vitamin that is a constituent of lecithin; essential in the metabolism of fat)
• phenolic acids Phenolic acids are plant metabolites widely spread throughout the plant kingdom. Recent interest in phenolic acids stems from their potential protective role, through ingestion of fruits and vegetables, against oxidative damage diseases (coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancers). Phenolic compounds are essential for the growth and reproduction of plants, and are produced as a response for defending injured plants against pathogens. The importance of antioxidant activities of phenolic compounds and their possible usage in processed foods as a natural antioxidant have reached a new high in recent years.
• amino acids
• asparagine a crystalline amino acid found in proteins and in many plants (e.g., asparagus)
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B complex S: (n) B-complex vitamin, B complex, vitamin B complex, vitamin B, B vitamin, B (originally thought to be a single vitamin but now separated into several B vitamins)
• potassium
• lutein Lutein is concentrated in the retinas of your eyes and is necessary for good vision. A diet rich in lutein may lower your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.
• violaxan-thin Natural orange-red coloring isolated from yellow pansies and Valencia orange peel. Soluble in alcohol. No known toxicity
• carotenoids,
• phytochemicals,
• insulin S: (n) insulin (hormone secreted by the isles of Langerhans in the pancreas; regulates storage of glycogen in the liver and accelerates oxidation of sugar in cells)
• phytosterols
• boron S: (n) boron, B, atomic number 5 (a trivalent metalloid element; occurs both in a hard black crystal and in the form of a yellow or brown powder)
• calcium
• silicon aids in bone and cartilage development

Medicinal benefits:

• hepatitis,
• warts,
• blisters,
• bacteria,
• aids in digestion,
• supports the liver,
• acne diuretic.

E

Echinacea - Echinacea angustifolia

Botanical name:
Echinacea angustifolia
Common name:
Purple coneflower

Constituents:

• humulene Humulene, or a-humulene or a-caryophyllene, is a naturally occurring monocyclic sesquiterpene( see sesquiterpene)
• caryophylene an important essential oil
• glycoside S: (n) glycoside (a group of compounds derived from monosaccharides)
• polysaccharide S: (n) polysaccharide, polyose (any of a class of carbohydrates whose molecules contain chains of monosaccharide molecules)
• polyacetylenes hydrocarbons with more than one triple bond; or an oxidized form of polyenes. they can react with sulfur to form thiophenes.†
• isobutylalklamines a composite of essential oil
• resin Resin is a natural or synthetic compound which begins in a highly viscous state and hardens with treatment.
• betaine Betaine HCl is a form of HCl used as a nutrient to supplement the stomachís own production of HCl, or stomach acid.
• inulin
• sesquiterpene class of terpenes that consist of three isoprene units and have the molecular formula C15H24. Like monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes may be acyclic or contain rings, including many unique combinations. Biochemical modifications such as oxidation or rearrangement produce the related sesquiterpenoids. Sesquiterpenes are found naturally in plants and insects, as semiochemicals, e.g. defensive agents or pheromones.

Part we use:

• Leaves
• Roots

Medicinal Benefits:

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Immuno- stimulant
• AntiViral
• Adaptogen
• Alterative
• Antiseptic
• Aphrodisiac
• Depurative
• Digestive
• Sialagogue
• sores,
• wounds
• burns

F

Fennel - Foeniculum vulgare

Common name:
Sweet Fennel
Fenkel

Constituents:

• anethole anti-inflammatory and carcinogenesis
• limonene anti- cancer
• fenchone A synthetic flavoring occurring naturally in common fennel. It is an oily liquid with a camphor smell and practically insoluble in water. Used in berry, liquor, and spice flavorings for beverages, ice cream, ices, candy, baked goods, and liquors. Used medically as a counterirritant.
• estragole
• fiber

Medicinal Benefits:

• Arthritis
• Congestion
• Sinus
• Cough
• Digestion
• Indigestion
• Gout
• Lupus
• Menopause
• Perimenopause
• Pet care
• Weight Loss
• Mothers Milk

G

Garlic - Allium sativum

Common Name:
Poor Man's Treacle

Constituents:

• Allicin allicin is mother nature's insecticide. Allicin was discovered in 1944 by Cavallito, who first noted its potent antimicrobial activity. Allicin received a patent for its antifungal activity in test tubes.
• citral an unsaturated liquid isomeric aldehyde C10H16O of many essential oils that has a strong lemon odor and is used especially in perfumery and as a flavoring
• geraniol Geraniol is a natural antioxidant that has been suggested to help prevent cancer.
• linalool A natural insecticidal compound found in oil extracted from citrus peel. Similar in activity to d-limonene.
• phellandrene used in flavoring and perfumes.
• s-methyl-1-cysteine Cysteine is an amino acid that can be found in many proteins throughout the body
• sulfoxide any of a class of organic compounds containing sulfur and oxygen

Medicinal Benefits:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Burns
• Cancer
• Candida
• Cholesterol
• Colds
• Fungus Infections
• Heart Tonics/Cordials
• Herpes
• Influenza
• Insect Repellent
• Lungs
• Parasites
• Sinusitis
• Sore Throat

H

Hawthorn - Crataegus monogyna

Common names:
May blossom
whitethorn
Red Haw
Mayflower

Constituents:

• tannins substance that binds with protein to create astringent properties
• flavonoids Flavonoids are compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and certain beverages that have diverse beneficial biochemical and antioxidant effects
• carbonic acid carbonic acid contains a lupane-type triterpene which is abundant in many plant species, has been shown to exert a direct effect on the mitochondria and subsequent apoptosis in melanoma cells.
• purine One of the important specialized pathways of a number of amino acids is the synthesis of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides. These nucleotides are important for a number of reasons. Most of them, not just ATP, are the sources of energy that drive most of our reactions. ATP is the most commonly used source but GTP is used in protein synthesis as well as a few other reactions. UTP is the source of energy for activating glucose and galactose. CTP is an energy source in lipid metabolism. AMP is part of the structure of some of the coenzymes like NAD and Coenzyme A.

Parts We Use:

• Flowers
• Leaves
• Berries
• Roots
• Seeds

Medicinal Benefits:

• Heart
• Hypo-tensive
• Respiratory
• Astringent
• High Blood Pressure
• Diuretic
• Sedative
• Anti-spasmodic
• Boosts Energy

Location:

• Mediterranean
• north Africa
• Europe
• Asia
• North America

J

Jiaogulan - Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Common names: Jiao Gu Lan,
Amachazuru,
Herb of Immortality, (xiancao)
sweet vine tea
Southern Ginseng
Penta Tea
Amachazuru
Dungkulcha
Twisting Vine Orchid

Location:
Asia

Part We Use:

• Leaves
• Stems
• Roots
• Bark
• Seeds

Constituents:

• gypenosides (1-82) are formed by large concentrates of saponins in Gynostemma, giving the herb powerful medicinal qualities.
• saponins are compounds that naturally create snowflake like chains and create a soapy-fizzy like chemical reaction.
• trace minerals in small portions can increase longevity. They are assimilated and used by the body for transporting oxygen, act directly with energy metabolism, organ health, cellular aggregation, and nervous system stability. They are essential in the process of assimilation and utilization of vitamins and nutrients. They aid in the digestion process and provide the catalyst for many hormones, enzymes, and essential body functions and reactions. They aid in replacing electrolytes lost through heavy perspiration or diarrhea.† Trace Minerals help the organs filter toxic compounds.
• dammarane triterpene saponins superoxide inhibitor in polymorphonuclear cells
• 6'-malonyl derivatives The condensation product of malonic acid and coenzyme A and an intermediate in fatty acid synthesis.
• sterols
• ergostane Ergostane derivatives of 28 carbons with oxygens at C1, C22, and C26 positions and the side chain cyclized. They are found in withania plant genus and have cytotoxic and other effects.†
• cholestane a crystalline saturated steroid hydrocarbon C27H48 obtained from cholesterol by reduction
• stigmastane The parent substance of sitosterol.
• acetylenic Pertaining to acetylene or being like acetylene, such as having a triple bond.
• flavonoid
• rutin
• ombuoside structure given in first source (1)yixingensin the structure of yixingensin is identified as ombuin-3-O-fl-D-glu-copyranoside.
• amino acids
• protein
• vitamin
• Antioxidant
• multi adaptogenic Agents that help return the body to balance or protect it from stress.

Medicinal Benefits:

• Cardic
• Overall Tonic
• cholesterol
• strength
• energy
• endurance
• immune system
• anti- tumor
• Longevity
• mental clarity

K

Kava-Kava - Piper methysticum

Common names:
Intoxicating Peper
kawa
kew
yagona
sakau
suhka
sakaw

Location:
South Pacific

Part We Use:

• Roots
• Leaves

Constituents:

• kavalactones psychoactive components
• pyrones heterocyclic compounds, containing a six-member ring composed of five carbon atoms and one oxygen atom.
• alkaloids Any of various organic compounds normally with basic chemical properties and usually containing at least one nitrogen atom in a heterocyclic ring, occurring chiefly in many vascular plants and some fungi. Many alkaloids, such as nicotine, quinine, cocaine, and morphine, are known for their poisonous or medicinal attributes.

Medicinal benefits:

• Anxiety
• Panic
• Aphrodisiac
• Bladder Infection
• Cystitis
• Dysmenorrhea
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Stress
• Toothache
• Earache
• Analgesic
• Antibacterial
• Diuretic
• Expectorant
• Diaphoretic
• Sedative
• Stimulant

L

Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra

Common Names:
Licorice
Liquorice
Gan-cao

Parts We Use:

Root

Constituents:

• glycyrrhizin 50-100 times sweeter than sucrose
• glycrrhetinic acid anti-inflammatory properties also called enoxolone resin
• licorcone A new isoflavone, licoricone, C_22 H_22O_6,mp 250-251, Finally an X-ray crystallographic analysis of its monobromoacetate was undertaken to formulate licoricone. flavinoids

Medicinal Benefits:

• Anxiety/Panic
• Bronchitis
• Candida/Yeast Infection
• Chronic Fatigue
• Colds
• Congestion/Chest & Sinus
• Digestion/Indigestion
• Lungs/Respiratory
• Menopause/Perimenopause
• Psoriasis
• Sore Throat/Laryngitis

M

Milk Thistle - Silybum marianum L.

Common names:
Silymarin
Marian Thistle
Mediterranean Thistle
Mary Thistle
Holy Thistle

Parts We Use:

Seeds

Constituents:

• Silymarin (antihepatotoxic) properties that protect liver cells against toxins
• Silibinin silydianin. Silibinin has also demonstrated anti-cancer effects against human prostate adenocarcinoma cells, estrogen-dependent and -independent human breast carcinoma cells, human ectocervical carcinoma cells, human colon cancer cells, and both small and nonsmall human lung carcinoma cells
• Silychristin a flavonolignan that has anti cancer efferts