Milk Thistle (Silybum marianus)

This plant is native to the Mediterranean and grows wild throughout Europe, North America and Australia. Milk Thistle has been used in Europe as a remedy for liver problems for thousands of years. Its use was recorded in the first century (AD 23-79), noting that the plant was excellent for protecting the liver. Early Christian tradition dedicated milk thistle to Mary, calling it Marian thistle. In the 19th century the Eclectics used the herb for varicose veins, menstrual difficulty, and congestion in the liver, spleen and kidneys. Milk thistle has also been taken to increase breast-milk production, stimulate the secretion of bile, and as a treatment for depression.

Milk thistle nutritionally supports the liver’s ability to maintain normal liver function. It has shown positive effects in treating nearly every known form of liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, necroses, and liver damage due to drug and alcohol abuse. Milk thistle works due to its ability to inhibit the factors responsible for liver damage, coupled with the fact it stimulates production of new liver cells to replace old damaged ones.

Milk thistle has been proven to protect the liver from damage. The detrimental effects of environmental toxins, alcohol, drugs and chemotherapy may be countered with this valuable herb. The active chemical component in the herb is silybin, which functions as an antioxidant and is one of the most potent liver protective agents known. Clinical trials have proven silybin to be effective in treating chronic liver diseases and in protecting the liver from toxic chemicals. An injection of silybin is a proven antidote for poisoning with the Deathcap mushroom (Amanita phalloides).

Silybin is a part of the chemical structure of the flavoligan silymarine. Milk thistle’s hepatoprotective effects may be explained by its function of altering the liver cell membrane structure, blocking the absorption of toxins into the cells. Hepatoprotection by silymarin can also be attributed to its ability to increase the intracellular concentration of glutathione, a substance required for detoxicating reactions in liver cells. Milk thistle is also an antioxidant that is more potent than vitamins C and E.

Parts Used: Seeds for powdered or liquid extract.

Common Use: Helps the liver detoxification process. For all liver disorders such as jaundice and hepatitis. Fights pollutants and prevents free radical damage by action as antioxidant. Protects the liver and stimulates the production of new liver cells. Helps common skin conditions related to poor liver function.

Care: Annual or biennial. Very drought tolerant, self seeds readily. Prefers sunny position and well drained, dry soil.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis)

Part used and where grown: The marshmallow plant loves water and grows primarily in marshes. Originally from Europe, it now grows in the United States as well. The root and leaves are used.

In what conditions might marshmallow be supportive?

Â¥ asthma

Â¥ common cold/sore throat

Â¥ cough

Â¥ Crohn’s disease

Â¥ diarrhea

Â¥ peptic ulcer

Historical or traditional use: Marshmallow (not to be confused with confectionery marshmallows, which are a product of the modern food industry) has long been used to treat coughs and sore throats.1 Because of its high mucilage content, this plant is soothing and healing to inflamed mucous membranes. Additionally, it was used to treat chapped skin, chilblains, and even minor wounds.

Active constituents: The active constituents in marshmallow are large carbohydrate (sugar) molecules which make up mucilage. This smooth, slippery substance can soothe and protect irritated mucous membranes. Although marshmallow has primarily been used for the respiratory and digestive tracts, its high mucilage content may also provide some relief for the urinary tract and skin.2

How much should I take? Marshmallow can be made into a hot or cold water tea. Make a tea by adding roots and/or leaves and letting it steep. Drink three to five cups a day. Herbal extracts in capsules and tablets providing 5-6 grams of marshmallow per day can also be used, or it may be taken as a tincture in the amount of 5-15 ml, three times daily.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Marshmallow is very safe. There have been extremely rare reports of allergic reactions.

References:

1. NosalÕova G, Strapkova A, Kardosova A, et al. Antitussive action of extracts and polysaccharides of marsh mallow (Althea offcinalis L., var. robusta). Pharmazie 1992;47:224-6 [in German]. 2. Tomoda M, Shimizu N, Oshima Y, et al. Hypoglycemic activity of twenty plant mucilages and three modified products. Planta Med 1987;53:8-12.

Mandrake Root (Podophyllum peltatum)

MEDICINAL: Mandrake is a very strong gland stimulant. It is used to treat skin problems, digestion, and chronic liver diseases. It is most often combined with other herbs.

Do not use this herb without the proper guidance from a professional!

RELIGIOUS: Mandrake is used in the home as a powerful protection. It is carried to promote conception, and men carry it to promote fertility and cure impotency.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Maca Root (Lepidium mayenil )

Lepidium meyenii

From the Andes mountains comes the hottest import, Maca or “Peruvian Ginseng”. It is gaining popularity worldwide due to its history of use as a powerful stamina enhancer and libido-fertility herb.

Maca is touted as a “herbal Viagra”, for increased stamina, libido and sexual function. Native to Peru, it is reported that the Incas used Maca for strength as well as to improve the fertility of themselves and their livestock due to the altitude & harsh climate of their environment. It continued to be used as an aphrodisiac for both men and women by Peruvians. In other applications, Maca is also being recommended by herbalists for male & female hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue and adrenal dysfunction. It is believed that Maca’s energizing capabilities comes from its high content of minerals, especially iodine, which is required by the thyroid to regulate energy levels. It is even suggested for anemia due to its high iron content.

Common use: Energy, stamina, adaptogen, relieves stress, increase sex drive & fertility, chronic fatigue, memory tonic, PMS, menstrual discomforts, menopause, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, hormone balancer, stimulates metabolism.

Suggested Directions: 1 to 2 cups daily. If desired, add honey and/or lemon to taste. IF PREGNANT OR NURSING SEEK ADVICE OF A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.