Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo Biloba Leaf)

The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species, geological records indicate this plant has been growing on earth for 150 – 200 million years. Chinese monks are credited with keeping the tree in existence, as a sacred herb. It was first brought to Europe in the 1700’s and it is now a commonly prescribed drug in France and Germany. It is one of the most well-researched herbs in the world.

In the last 30 years, more that 300 studies have given clinical evidence that ginkgo prevents and benefits many problems throughout the entire body. Ginkgo is gaining recognition as a brain tonic that enhances memory because of its positive effects on the vascular system, especially in the cerebellum. It is also used as a treatment for vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and a variety of neurological disorders and circulation problems. Ginkgo may help to counteract the effects of aging, including mental fatigue and lack of energy.

Ginkgo works by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout the body’s network of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency, regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain which uses 20% of the body’s oxygen.

Benefits of enhanced circulation in the brain include improved short and long term memory, increased reaction time and improved mental clarity. Ginkgo is often used to treat elderly persons with Alzheimer’s and other symptoms of cerebral insufficiency. Cerebral insufficiency is a general term for a collection of symptoms that include difficulties of concentration and memory, absentmindedness, confusion, lack of energy, depressive mood, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache.

Ginkgo constituents are beneficial for a variety of imbalances and deterioration in the brain and body. Standardized ginkgo extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a common allergen in the body. Physical stress, and poor quality food can overstimulate PAF production; in other words, blood clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause cardiovascular disease, brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and inflammatory diseases.

Ginkgo has been used to relieve tension and anxiety and improve mental alertness, elevate mood and restore energy.

Ginkgo has two groups of active substances, flavonoids and terpene lactones, including ginkgolides A, B, and C, bilobalide, quercetin, and kaempferol. The ginkgolides have been shown to control allergic inflammation, anaphylactic shock and asthma.

Ginkgo also acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the oxidation of free radicals which are believed to contribute to premature aging and dementia. Antioxidants also protect the eyes, cardiovascular system and central nervous system.

Ginkgo may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can relax constricted blood vessels.

The herb has been used in treatment of other circulation-related disorders such as diabetic peripheral vascular disease, Raynaud’s syndrome, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It can also aid in the treatment of insufficient circulation and complications from stroke and skull injuries. Ginkgo’s beneficial effects on the circulatory system also can be of benefit in the treatment of eye and ear disorders.

Studies have confirmed that ginkgo increases blood flow to the retina, and can slow retinal deterioration resulting in an increase of visual acuity. In clinical tests ginkgo has improved hearing loss in the elderly. It also improves circulation in the extremities relieving cold hands and feet, swelling in the limbs and chronic arterial blockage. Among other things, ginkgo is being investigated as a potential treatment to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs, as a treatment for asthma and for toxic shock syndrome.

Parts Used: Dried leaf.

Common Use: Ginkgo has been shown to be nutritional support for mental alertness, enhanced vitality level, circulatory health and blood vessel health. Its high antioxidant activity is valuable for fighting age related conditions. All over the world, people have claimed Ginkgo to be beneficial in the fight against the gradual erosion of energy associated with aging.

Care: The ginkgo tree thrives in full sun and average soil. It is very resistant to infection and pollution and can grow up to 120 feet. The small yellow fruit that falls from the female tree has a strong rancid odor.

*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.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

An ancient Indian proverb states that everything good is found in ginger. We wouldn’t go quite that far — it’s certainly no substitute for electricity, friendship or chocolate frozen yogurt — but we have to admit, there’s quite a bit you can do with this versatile healing herb. Besides putting the zip in your stir-fry, here’s how to use ginger to treat a number of common ailments.

Should Ginger be in Your Medicine Chest? What the Leaves Say: Here are the ins and outs of using ginger tea, courtesy of our resident tea leaf reader Herbala:

Try Ginger if: Your stomach is sloshing and churning like an overstuffed washing machine. Whether you’ve got heartburn, abdominal cramps or a queasy stomach, a soothing cup of ginger is the herbalist’s stomach remedy of choice. Ginger contains compounds similar to the digestive enzymes found in your digestive tract, which may help you digest a heavy, protein-rich meal more easily. Ginger is particularly effective for motion sickness: In fact, studies show it’s even more effective than the prescription drug Dramamine. To head off motion sickness, most herbalists recommend ginger capsules, sold at any health food store. The standard dosage is 1500 milligrams, taken about 30 minutes before you hit the road, air or high seas.

You’re eating for two — but can barely keep down enough food for one. Ginger is a time-tested remedy for morning sickness; generations of expectant moms have found that a cup of ginger tea first thing in the morning can make breakfast a whole lot more appealing. If you’d prefer something cold, a glass of ginger ale also delivers the herb’s stomach-soothing compounds. (Just read the label to make sure your brand has no artificial flavorings — if it does, it probably contains little or no real ginger.)

You watch HDL and LDL the way other people watch ABC and NBC. If you’re waging your own personal war on cholesterol, here’s another weapon to add to your arsenal: Studies suggest that ginger can be useful in keeping cholesterol levels under control. Scientists still have a lot to learn about how and why ginger works, but in the meantime, you might want to try sipping a few cups of ginger tea throughout the day, in addition to exercising, watching your diet and following your doctor’s advice. If you’re concerned about cholesterol, a remedy this cheap, safe and pleasant to use is worth trying.

Cold and flu germs have declared open season, and you’ve got a target on your back. Chinese herbalists have used ginger for generations to treat colds and flu, and modern studies confirm that ginger helps kill the influenza virus and helps the immune system wage war on infection. If you feel a cold coming on, try sipping on ginger tea throughout the day.

All your bills are due on the same day — and it’s still not the worst day of the month. For many women, scraping the bottom of the checking account is a walk in the park compared to suffering with menstrual cramps. If monthly misery has you down, Herbala recommends a hot cup of ginger tea.

*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.

Gentian (Gentiana lutea)

Parts used and where grown: This plant comes from meadows in Europe and Turkey. It is also cultivated in North America. The root is used medicinally. Several other similar species can be used interchangeably.

In what conditions might gentian be supportive?

Â¥ indigestion and heartburn

Â¥ poor appetite

Â¥ vaginitis

Historical or traditional use: Gentian root and other highly bitter plants have been used for centuries in Europe as digestive aids (the well-known Swedish bitters often contain gentian). Other folk uses included topical use on skin tumors, decreasing fevers, and treatment of diarrhea.1 Its ability to increase digestive function, including production of stomach acid, has since been validated in modern times.

Active constituents: Gentian contains some of the most bitter substances known, particularly the glycosides gentiopicrin and amarogentin. The taste of these can be detected even when diluted 50,000 times.2 Besides stimulating secretion of saliva in the mouth and hydrochloric acid in the stomach, gentiopicrin may protect the liver.3

How much should I take? Up to 20 drops of gentian tincture dissolved in a small glass of water should be sipped at least fifteen minutes before meals.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Gentian should not be used with people suffering from excessive stomach acid, heart burn, stomach ulcers, or gastritis.

References:

1. Duke JA. CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1985, 207-8. 2. Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Gothenburg, Sweden: Ab Arcanum, 1988, 40-42. 3. Kondo Y, Takano F, Hojo H. Suppression of chemically and immunologically induced hepatic injuries by gentiopicroside in mice. Planta Med 1994;60:414-6.

*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.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic is a member of the onion family and is nature’s most versatile medicinal plant. Garlic has been used all over the world for thousands of years for a wide range of conditions. It has been prized since the first records of civilization for its uses in treating wounds, infections, tumors, and intestinal parasites.

Modern scientists in numerous clinical trials have concluded that Garlic lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, thins the blood (which reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke) and fights bacteria like an antibiotic.

Garlic is a potent antioxidant that has been found to inhibit tumor cell formation and is currently being studied by the National Cancer Institute. It may be effective in fighting stomach, skin and colon cancer.

Though it is best know as a culinary herb and vampire retardant, the medicinal benefits and claims for garlic have awarded it the name “Wonder Drug among all herbs”.

Modern day research helps explain the broad applications of this “miracle” herb. Garlic bulbs contain the amino acid allicin. When crushed, allicin is released. This chemical element is the component that gives Garlic its strong odor and is responsible for the powerful pharmacological properties of the plant. One medium clove of Garlic can equal the antibacterial action equivalent to 1% penicillin.

Garlic also contains about 0.5% of a volatile oil that is composed of sulfur-containing compounds. Garlic’s sulfur compounds, in addition to Selenium and Vitamins A and C containing compounds, make it a potent antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and DNA from damage and disease.

Although Garlic directly attacks bacteria and viruses, it also stimulates the body’s natural defenses against foreign invaders. Garlic is reported to be more effective than penicillin against typhus disease, and works well against strep, staph bacteria, and the organisms responsible for cholera, dysentery and enteritis.

It is generally regarded as a preventative measure for colds, flu and other infectious diseases. Furthermore, scientific studies have shown that garlic stimulates the production of the liver’s own detoxifying enzymes which neutralize carcinogens and other environmental toxins. It has also been used to rid the body of intestinal parasites and to treat digestive infections.

Researchers have been studying the anti-cancer properties of Garlic since the 1940’s. It appears that the herb may prevent cells from turning cancerous by enhancing the body’s mechanisms for removing toxic substances. Garlic’s phytochemicals are believed to enhance immunity and the National Cancer Institute (January 1992) reported that people who ate the greatest amount of onions and garlic had the lowest incidence of stomach cancer. Other types of cancer have also been reported as lower.

Furthermore, garlic increases the activity of white blood cells and T-helper cells (natural killer cells), the cells that are central to the activity of the entire immune system.

Garlic supplements can improve many of the processes that can lead to cardiovascular disease. Garlic has been used as a blood thinner and anticoagulant to resolve blood clots and improve circulation. It has been shown to lower cholesterol while increasing the level of beneficial HDLs (high-density lipoproteins), the so-called good cholesterol.

Garlic has no side effects like those associated with cholesterol lowering drugs. (Take garlic for at least two or three months, as often in the first month or two cholesterol may actually slightly rise.) In addition, garlic compounds gently lower blood pressure by slowing the production of the body’s own blood pressure raising hormones. At least seventeen clinical trials have shown that mild hypertension can be effectively managed with garlic.

Garlic has great value as a long-term dietary supplement, helping to maintain healthy circulation, balance blood sugar and pressure, reduce fat levels in the blood, and improve resistance to infection. It can be taken with conventional antibiotics to support their action and ward off side effects.

Garlic has also been used in treating upper respiratory infections (especially bronchitis), late-onset diabetes, urinary infections, acne, asthma, sinusitis, arthritis, and ulcers.

Part Used: Bulb or as odorless tablets.

Common Use: Good for virtually any disease or infection. Improves circulation, maintains healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. A natural antibiotic and immune system stimulant.

Care: A perennial bulb that grows in warm climates worldwide. Prefers rich soil and full sun.

*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.