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HERBALANTIVIRALS
HealYourselfFaster,CheaperandSafer
YourA-ZGuidetoChoosing,PreparingandUsingtheMostEffectiveNaturalAntiviralHerbs
ByMaryJones
Copyright© 2015 byMary Jones - All rights reserved. Printed in the UnitedStatesofAmerica.
Copyright: No part of this publication may be reproduced without writtenpermissionfromtheauthor,exceptbyareviewerwhomayquotebriefpassagesorreproduceillustrationsinareviewwithappropriatecredits;normayanypartof this book be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in anyform or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, orother-withoutpriorwrittenpermissionofthecopyrightholder.
Theinformationinthisbookistrueandcompletetothebestofourknowledge.Allrecommendationsaremadewithoutguaranteeonthepartoftheauthor.Theauthordisclaimsanyliabilityinconnectionwiththeuseofthisinformation.
FirstPrinting,2015-PrintedintheUnitedStatesofAmerica
“Thehealingcomesfromnatureandnotfromthephysician.ThereforethephysicianMuststartfromnaturewithanopenmind”
-Paracelsus
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Introduction
Chapter1-KeyFactsAboutEmergingViruses
Chapter2-Eye-OpeningAlternativeMedicineStatistics
Chapter3–UsageofAntivirals–AllYouNeedtoKnow
Chapter4–BestSourcesforHerbalAntivirals
Chapter5-Top45AntiviralHerbs
Chapter6–LittleKnownHerbalRemedyRecipes
Chapter7-HerbalRemediesforCommonAilments
Sources
FAQ
Conclusion
AbouttheAuthor
INTRODUCTION
‘Herbalism’istheuseofplantsformedicinalpurposes.Plantshavebeenusedasthebasisofmedicationthroughouthumanhistorytohelppreventandcureawiderangeofailments.Theseremediesarerecognizedinmodernmedicineas‘alternativetreatments’andhavebeensteadilyincreasinginpopularityformanyreasons,someofwhichareexplainedverywellinthestatementbelowfromtheJournalofTraditionalandComplementaryMedicine:
“Viralinfectionsplayanimportantroleinhumandiseases,andrecentoutbreaksin the advent of globalization and ease of travel have underscored theirpreventionasacriticalissueinsafeguardingpublichealth.Despitetheprogressmade in immunization and drug development, many viruses lack preventivevaccines and efficient antiviral therapies, which are often beset by thegenerationofviralescapemutants.Thus,identifyingnovelantiviraldrugsisofcritical importance and natural products are an excellent source for suchdiscoveries.”
Inshort,althoughantiviralmedication is important, it isn’talways theanswer.Topreventagrowingresistancetotheworkofprescriptionmedication,herbalremedies are brilliant for prevention – and cure when the virus isn’t lifethreatening. Herbal remedies are also brilliant for assisting with the sideeffectsofmedication,whichwillbeexaminedwithinthisguide.
Antiviraldrugsareaclassofmedicationusedspecificallytocureviralillnesses.Theyworkbyinhibitingthedevelopmentof thepathogen–preventingit fromgettingworse and taking over the body.Different antiviralswork on differentviruses,forexample,MoroxydineworkstocureRNAandDNAviruses.
Theherbalantivirals thatareavailablehavebeenusedforcenturies,andmanyofthemwillbeeasilyrecognizable.
TheseareconsideredastheTop10antivirals:
Colloidal Silver, Zinc, Elderberry, Olive Leaf, Green Tea, Liquorice, PauD’arco,St.John’sWort,GarlicandEchinacea.
Thisbookwill lookat theseherbalantivirals–alsogivingthedetailsofmanymorethatareeasilyaccessibletoyou.Thebenefits,risksandeverythingelsetodowithherbalremedieswillbeexaminedmakingthisthemostextensiveguideavailable.Onceyouhavereadallof the information in thefollowingchapters,youwillbeabletomakeanextremelyinformeddecisionaboutswitchingtothe healthier, more natural alternative of herbal medication! Of course,everythingpresented in this book is guideline only – youwill need to consultyourdoctorbeforetakinganyoftheseherbalremedies.
WatchAntiviralsHerbstoKickVirusesoutoftheBody
CHAPTER1
KEYFACTSABOUTEMERGINGVIRUSES
Everyyear,approximately1.7millionpeopleareaffectedby infections. IntheUS alone, over 100,000 people die because of infections they acquired inhospitalsandhealthclinics.Anemergentvirusisonethathasadaptedandhasdevelopedintoanewdiseaseorpathogen.Mostofthesecanbecategorizedas‘zoonotic’whichisananimaldiseasewhichhasbeentransferredontohumans.
.
Thefactorsthataffectemergingvirusesare:
Populationmovements–themovementofpopulation.
Deforestation–naturalforestsareclearedthroughloggingorburning.
Irrigation – the artificial application ofwater to assist the production ofcrops.
Urbanization–theincreaseofpopulationinurbanareas.
Increasedlongdistanceairtravel.
Increasedlongdistanceairtravelforlivestock.
Migration – the movement of population with the intent of settling insomeplacenew.
A great example of an emerging virus isPoliomyelitis. It has been known toexistforcenturieswithoutanyrealimpact,butitbecamemoreprominentinthe19th century, due to dense urban populations forcing people to live so closelytogether.Thiswasn’tresolveduntilthevaccinewasinvented.
WatchDr.LeonardHorowitzonEmergingViruses
Of course,more recent examples of emerging viruses areAids andEbola.Asshown in thevideoabove,Dr.LeonardHorowitz has recentlydoneavery in-depthstudyonthisverytopic.Dr.LeonardHorowitzisaninternationallyknownauthority of behavioral science and public health education. He received hisdoctorate fromTuftsUniversity indentalmedicine, aMaster ofPublicHealthdegree in behavioral science fromHarvard University, and aMasters of Artsdegree inhealtheducationfromBeaconCollege.Heservedon the facultiesofTufts andHarvardUniversities andLeslieCollege’s Institute for theArts andHuman Development, directed a multidisciplinary health centre for over adecade, and currently serves as President of a non-profit health educationalcorporation.
Hestartshisstudybysaying“Todoevilahumanbeingmustfirstofallbelievewhat he is doing is good...”which demonstrates how it looks about humaninterference in these emerging viruses.Hiswork examines how a lot of theseemerging viruses are not just mutations, but actually man made. Theimplicationsofthis,ofcoursemeansthatweneedtobeextremelyawareofhowwecanprotectourselvesnaturallyfromthistypeofthing.Ifwecanincorporatespecificfoodsandherbsintooureverydaydiet,thisgivesusabetterchanceoffightingwhatevercomesourway.
Nowthatwehavehadabrieflookattheoriginoftheseemergingviruses,itistime to examine what is important – curing them. Most people willautomatically think of traditional, man-made medication, but this guide willdemonstrate howherbal,more naturalmedication has extensive benefits of itsown.
RespiratoryInfections–suchastheinfluenzavirus–arebelievedtobeoneofthemain reasons thatpeoplevisit theirdoctororpharmacist.According to theNHS,healthprofessionalsmakethefollowingdifferentiation:
InfectionsoftheUpperRespiratoryTract–thisaffectsthenose,sinusesandthroat.
InfectionsoftheLowerRespiratoryTract–thisaffectstheairwaysandlungs.
Thesevirusescanspreadinmanydifferentways,mostprimarilythroughtheair.Whenaninfectedpersoncoughsorsneezes,dropletsofthediseasecanthenbebreathed in by someone else. The only way to attempt to prevent this fromhappening,isbypracticinggoodhygiene.
Whensufferinganupperrespiratoryinfection,mostpeoplechosetotreatthemathome–whichisthebestthingtodounlessthesymptomscontinuetoworsenoryouhaveunderlyinghealthproblems.Restandhydrationarekey factors inthis.
Ofcourse,thereareothermedicalwaysthesesymptomscanbetreated–oratleastalleviated.Themostcommonoftheseinclude:
Acetaminophen–(Tylenol)toreducefeverandbodyaches.
NonsteroidalAnti-inflammatoryDrugs–(Ibuprofen)canbeusedforbodyachesandfever.
Antihistamines–(Benadryl)canhelpwithnasalcongestion.
Antitussives–(CoughMedication)canbeusedtohelpwiththecough.
Steroids– (Decadron)canbeused toreduce inflammation in theairwaypassage.
Decongestants–(Sudafed)arealsogoodfornasalcongestion.
Antibiotics–insomecases,antibioticswillbeprescribed.
But there are also many natural remedies that can help reduce thesesymptoms; honey, liquorice root and Thyme to name a few. These naturalsolutionswillbeexaminedfurtherthroughoutthisguide.
WatchvideoonRespiratoryInfections
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain which is usually caused by a viralinfection(veryoftenitistheherpessimplexvirus),butcanalsobetheresultofan insect bite. The symptoms of this are usually aching muscles, fever,headaches,fatigue,andnausea–allthecommonsignsthatlinktoavirus.Thiscanoftenmakeitverydifficulttodiagnosewhichmeansvictimscanslipintoacoma. The long lasting results of this can range from nothing, all theway topermanentbraindamage.Afewoftheseissuescaninclude:
Problemswithbalance,co-ordinationanddexterity.
Speechproblems.
Weaknessandproblemswithmovement.
Swallowingproblems.
Seizures(fits).
Chronicheadache.
Personalitychanges.
Memoryproblems.
Behavioralproblems.
Moodproblems,anxietyanddepression.
Difficultyconcentrating.
JEV=JapaneseEncephalitisVirus.
Encephalitisisn’taverycommondisease,withapproximatelyonly2,500peoplebeingaffectedperyearintheUKandIreland.Althoughanyonecancatchit,thevery young, the very old and people who have had their immune systemcompromised (for instance; HIV sufferers or people undergoing cancertreatment)aremostatrisk.
AfterEncephalitishasbeendiagnosedusingaLumbarPuncture(orspinaltap)orElectroencephalographwhichdictatesunusualbrainwaves,then,theantiviralmedicationAcicloviristraditionallyprescribedtoassistyourbodyinbattlingthevirus. Doctors will also combine this with ‘supportive treatments’ such asintravenousfluidstohelpyourbodyrestandfight.
Although youmust be treated by a qualifiedmedical doctor for Encephalitis,there arenatural remedies that you canuse to alleviate the symptoms and
strengthenyourimmunesystem.Theseinclude:
Green Tea – 250–500mg daily. This antioxidant may help lowerinflammationandboostyourimmunesystem.
Cat’sClaw–20mgthreetimesaday.Thisherbmaylowerinflammationandfightviruses.
Garlic–400mgtwoto three timesaday.Garlic isbrilliantforboostingyourimmunesystem.
Astragalus–250–500mgfourtimesaday.Greatforboostyourimmunesystemandfightingviruses.
Elderberry–Oneor twospoonfulsofstandardized liquidextract two tofour times a day. Great for boosting your immune system and fightingviruses.
These natural remedies are discussed in more detail later in this guide. It isimportanttoremembertocheckwithyoudoctorbeforeusinganyoftheseherbsastheymayinterferewithyourcurrentmedication.
WatchvideoonEncephalitis
Asstatedearlier in thischapter,HIV–HumanImmunodeficiencyVirus– iscurrentlyoneofthebiggestemergingvirusesthathascausedanepidemic.Itisaconditioninhumanswhichcausestheimmunesystemtoprogressivelyfail.
AlthoughthereiscurrentlynocureforHIV,thereareantiretroviralmedicationsthathavebeenspecificallydesignedtostopthevirusreplicatingthebody.Theyallow the body to repair itself and prevent further damage.There are possibleside effects to thismedication; nausea, diarrhea, skin rashes, sleepdifficulties,etc,butthemedicationtakencanberearrangedtochangethis.
Alongsidethemedication,doctorswillrecommendthatHIVsufferersexercise,eatwell, don’tdrinkor smokeandhaveayearly flu jab togive their immunesystemthebestchancepossible.
Therehavealsobeenawide rangeof studies into thepossibilityofhelp frommorenatural,herbalremedies.A2013studypublishedinthe‘AfricanJournalofTraditional,ComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine’hasmadetheclaimthatBlackSeedExtract (NigellaSativa)usedbyaHIVpatientresultedinafullrecovery,leavingthemwithnodetectableHIVantibodies:
“Nigellasativahasbeendocumented topossessmany therapeutic functions inmedicinebuttheleastexpectedissero-reversioninHIVinfectionwhichisvery
rare despite extensive therapy with highly active antiretroviral therapy(HAART).”
OthermorenaturalremedieshavebeenusedbyHIVpatientstostrengthentheir immune systems, provide relief from the side effects from the traditionalmedicineandgivethemabetterqualityoflife.Theseinclude:
Immune System Therapies – designed to support the immune system.Theseincludeashwagandha,astragalus,atractylodes,cat’sclaw,ginseng,greatercelandine,shatvari,shiitake,maitakemushrooms.
Antimicrobial Therapies – designed to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi.Theseincludegarlic,goldenseal,neem,propolis,sanguinaria,teatree.
Antioxidants – prevent the damage caused by our body’s naturalprocesses.Theseincludeginger,ginkgo,milkthistle,turmeric.
HIV Related Conditions – there are some conditions caused by HIV.Thesenaturalremediesareusedtocombatthem:
GinkgotopreventHIV-relateddementia.
St.John’swortformildtomoderatedepression.
GreatercelandineforKaposi’ssarcoma.
Marijuanaforwasting.
Aloeveraforskinproblems.
Lemonbalmforinsomniaandherpessimplex.
GeneralWell-Being – sometimes the herbs are used just tomakeHIVsufferers feel a little better. These can include ashwagandha, ginseng,shatvari.
WatchNaturalCuresandTreatmentsforHIV
Ebola is another recent emergent virus discussed in this chapter. This diseasehas a very high death rate, killing approximately 50% of its sufferers. Thesymptoms include fever, rash, sore throat, muscle pain, headaches. This allhappensbeforethekidneyandliverfunctionofvictimsbeginstodecrease.
Atthiscurrenttime,theEbolavirusisaverynewoutbreak,andtherearen’tanylicensed treatments or vaccines available, although they are beingworked on.However, there are treatments being used; such as blood products, immunetherapiesanddrugtherapies.
ThereweretwooutbreaksoftheEbolavirusin1976,inSudanandDemocraticRepublicofCongosimultaneously.ThenewestoutbreakwhichwasfirstnotedinMarch2014, ismuch larger andmuchmore of a threat.Themost severelyaffected countries areGuinea, SierraLeone andLiberia,which are all lackinganyresourcesduetorecentperiodsofconflictandinstability.Thevirusisspread
bydirecthumancontactandbodilyfluidssoanyonesuspectedofsufferingfromthevirusmustbeplacedinisolatedquarantinetopreventitfromspreadinganyfurther.
EbolaData:
According to some sources, magnesium salts, sodium bicarbonate, iodine,seleniumandvitaminC,arethekeytoresolvingEbola.
Thesemorenaturalremedieshavebeenprovenintestsandstudiestohelpthehuman body fight and defend itself against other viral infections – whichsuggeststhattheystandaverygoodchanceathelpingthevictimsoftheEbolaVirus.
WatchvideoonNaturalRemediesforEbola
Thelifecycleofavirusisasfollows:
1. A virus particle attaches to a host cell. This is called the process ofadsorption.
2. TheparticleinjectsitsDNAorRNAintothehostcellcalledentry.
3. The invading DNA or RNA takes over the cell and recruits the host’senzymes.
4. Thecellularenzymesstartmakingnewvirusparticlescalledreplication.
5. Theparticlesof theviruscreatedby thecellcometogether toformnewviruses.Thisiscalledassembly.
6. The newly formed viruses kill the cell so that theymay break free andsearchforanewhostcell.Thisiscalledrelease.
Thekeytoanyemergingvirusistofindawaytocureitbeforeitbecomesanepidemic.As shownby the current examplesof these– inparticularHIVandEbola–itisvirtuallyimpossibletodothisasittakesyearsofstudy,testingandqualitycontroltogetthesemedicationsonthemarket,andeventhentheyoftenprovideundesirablesideeffects.Herbalremediesgivesufferersanimmediatelyavailablealternativetothis,whichshouldbeconsideredbydoctorsandpatients.
CHAPTER2
EYE-OPENINGALTERNATIVEMEDICINESTATISTICS
NCCAM–theNationalCentreforComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine–is the federal government led agency that conducts scientific research foralternativemedicine. They have conducted a lot of research into the usage ofcomplementaryandalternativemedicine.
Thediagramsbelowshowthefindingsofthisdata(CAM=ComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine):
Fromthisdata,it’seasytoseethebenefitsofherbalmedicationandwhymorepeopleareturningtoitonanannualbasis.TheNCCAMdatabelowshowsthe
agerangeofpeopleusingcomplementaryandalternativemedicine,andduetoalltheinformationshownsofar,thisisduetocontinuetogrowdramatically.
WatchthefollowingvideoonComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine
CHAPTER3
USAGEOFANTIVIRALS–ALLYOUNEEDTOKNOW
Therearemanyreasonswhypeoplemakethechangetoherbalmedication,andinparticularantivirals,butofcourse,youneedtobesurethatthechoiceisrightforyou.AstudyshowsthatnearlyonethirdofAmericansalreadyuseherbalremedies and intend to continue to do so, but everyone needs to take thefollowingconditionsintoconsideration:
Othermedicationthatyouaretaking–youwillneedtoconsultwithyourdoctortocheckthattherewillbenonegativeinteractions.
Sideeffects–althoughherbalmedicationhasmuch lesspossibilitiesofsideeffects thanconventionalantibiotics,youstillneed tobeawareofwhatcouldoccur.
Regulation – herbal medication isn’t regulated in the way that
conventionaltreatmentsare.Therearealotofresourcesandinformationavailableforyoutomakeyourowndecisions,butthereareafewgroupsthat haven’t been properly tested on – women who are pregnant orbreastfeeding, children or the elderly. It is always best to consult withyourdoctorfirst.
Avirusisdescribedas:
“Any of a large group of submicroscopic infective agents that are regardedeitherasextremelysimplemicroorganismsorasextremelycomplexmolecules,that typically contain a protein coat surrounding an RNA or DNA core ofgeneticmaterial but no semipermeablemembrane, that are capable of growthandmultiplicationonlyinlivingcells,andthatcausevariousimportantdiseasesinhumans,animals,orplants.”
Avirusisnotconsideredas‘live’asitcannotreplicateoutsideofahost.Virusesenter and infect cells before using them to replicate and mutate, which caneventuallykillthecells.Anexampleofthisistheinfluenzaviruswhichattackstherespiratorysystem.
It’s difficult to produce prescription antiviral medication that is safe andeffectivewithoutdamagingthecellthatthevirushasusedtoreplicate.Thefirstexperimental antivirals were developed in the 1960’s through trial-and-errordiscoverymethods,targetingtheherpesvirusinitially.Itwasn’tuntilthe1980’s,whenthefullgeneticsequencesofviruseswereunderstoodthatscientistscouldworkouttherightchemicalsneededtothwarttheirreproductivecycle.
“Antiviralmedicinesworkbybiochemicallymakingitimpossibleforthevirustoreplicate”explainsRandyWexler,MD,assistantprofessorof familymedicineattheOhioStateUniversityCollegeofMedicineinColumbus.
Belowisalistofthemostcommonlyprescribedantiviralmedications:
TheWayHerbalAntiviralsWork
One such way is the disruption of the replication cycle. Another way that“antivirals”aresaidtoworkisbystimulatingtheimmunesystem.Antiviralscanbindtocertainenzymesandpreventadsorptionintothehostcell.
MichaelMoore,aherbalist,describesantiviralsinhisMedicalGlossaryas:
“An agent that experimentally inhibits the proliferation and viability ofinfectiousviruses.Inourdomainofherbalmedicines,someplantswillsloworinhibit the adsorption or random initial attachment of viruses, extend thelifespan of infected target cells, or speed up several aspects of immunity,includingcomplement,antibody,andphagocytosisresponses.Herbalantiviralsworkbestonrespiratoryvirusessuchas influenza,adenoviruses,rhinoviruses,and the enteric echoviruses. Touted as useful in the alphabet group of slowviruses (HIV,EBV,CMV, etc.), they really help to limit secondary concurrentrespiratoryinfectionsthatoftenaccompanyimmunosuppression.”
Ofcourse,thereareprosandconstobothtraditionalandherbalantivirals.Theseareexaminedbelow:
TraditionalAntivirals
Pros:
Theyhelpyougetovertheviralinfectionfaster.
Theyareeasytotake–oftencomingintheformoftabletsorcapsules.
Traditional medication is regulated by a governing body to ensure itssafety.
Cons:
Sideeffectsincludenausea,vomiting,cough,runny/stuffynose,diarrhea.
They aren’t essential.Youwill recover from the viral infectionwithoutthem.
HerbalAntivirals
Pros:
Herbalantiviralsofferfarfewersideeffects.
Theycostmuchless...
andarefarmoreeasilyavailable.
Cons:
There is a lack of regulation in herbal antiviralswhichmeans it can bemoredifficulttofindalltheinformationyouneed.
Theycaninteractwithothermedicationyou’retaking.
WatchvideoonNaturalAntiviralHerbs
There aremany ways that your body can fight infections and strengthenyour immune system naturally – it is designed to do so. Sometimes it justneedsalittlehelpwhenitcomestoviruses.Asidefromherbalmedication,thereare factors that you can include in your everyday lifestyle as preventativemethods:
Don’tsmoke.
Eatahealthydiet–fruits,vegetables,wholegrainsandlowsaturatedfats.
Exerciseregularly.
Maintainahealthyweight.
Controlyourbloodpressure.
Ifyoudrinkalcohol,dosoinmoderation.
Getadequatesleep.
Takesteps toavoid infection–washyourhands frequently, cookmeatsthoroughly,etc.
Get regularmedical screening tests suitable for your age range and riskgroup.
WatchNaturalWaystoBoostyourImmuneSystem
Therearemanyessentialoilsthatcontainantiviralproperties.
The following 5 are themost popular:Clove, Oregano, Basil, Cinnamon andPeppermint.
CHAPTER4
BESTSOURCESFORHERBALANTIVIRALS
Herbal antivirals can be found everywhere.They don’t necessarily have to bepurchased in supplement form. In fact, including antiviral food in youreverydaydietisagreatwaytohelppreventvirusesfromaffectingyou.
These are considered to be the Top natural antivirals in food, herbs andspicesas:
Cat’sClaw
Cranberry
Elderberry
Ginger
LemonBalm
LiquoriceRoot
OliveLeaf
Oregano
Thesearesuggestedtobethebestantiviralherbs:
Turmeric
Cinnamon
Garlic
Oregano
Rosemary
Ginger
Peppermint
Basil
WatchvideoonNaturalAntiviralFood&Herbs
CHAPTER5
TOP45ANTIVIRALHERBS
1.Garlic
Garlichasbeencultivatedformorethan5000yearsandhasbeenprizedforitsmedicinalpropertiessincethedaysofthepharaohs.Itisusedasafolkremedyinmanyculturestoprotectagainstcoldsandinfluenza.Inlaboratorystudies,garlicwas found to possess antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Key togarlic’s antiviral and healing properties are its hundreds of beneficialcompounds,whichworksynergistically.Themostsignificantoftheseisallicin,whichproducesgarlic’spungentodour.Itisproducedfromanothercompound,alliin, when fresh garlic is cut or chewed and it can also be obtained frompowdered garlic supplements with allicin potential. Allicin in turn producesothersulphurcompounds,suchasajoene,allylsulphidesandvinyldithiins.Agedgarlic products lack allicin, but may have some antiviral activity due to thepresenceofSallylcysteine.Garlic’scold-preventingreputationhasbeenupheld
by laboratory tests in which fresh garlic, allicin and various other sulphurcompoundsingarlickilledthecommoncoldvirus,variousstrainsof influenzavirusesandherpessimplexvirustypesIandII.
Availability: Can be purchased from most food-based shops. (e.g. Nature’sBest,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Allicinisthemostpowerfulantiviralcompoundingarlic.Thissulphurcompoundisprimarilyusedtofightthecoldvirus.
Collection & Preparation: Available as powder, tablets, capsules or can beconsumedinfood(preferablyraw).
Dosage:2-5g.
PossibleSideEffects:The smell canoften lead tobadbreath, heart burn andupsetstomach.
Contraindications: Do not take if allergic to garlic or if pregnant orbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Allclose relativesofonionsandgarlic includingshallots, leeks,chiveandrakkyo.
OtherUses:Bloodpressure,digestion, stomachulcers, cancer,bloodclotting,impotence,antiseptic,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonTheHealthBenefitsofGarlic
2.Echinacea
Echinacea isoneof the top-sellingherbal remedies throughout theworld. It isalsooneoftheoldest.Notonlyhasthishealingherbenjoyedlongpopularity,italso has been the subject of much scientific research. Echinacea is known tosupport the immune system and may also have direct antiviral action.PreparationsofEchinacearootsandfloweringpartshavebeenshowninseveralclinicaltrialstobeeffectiveinreducingtheseverityanddurationofsymptomsin patients with common cold, upper respiratory tract infection and viralbronchitissymptoms.Thenaturalantiviralsdescribedinthisarticlemayprovideawelcome(andsometimesmoreeffective)alternativetopharmaceuticaldrugs.Becausesomeofthemhavebeenshowntokillvirusesonlyinthetesttubeandhavenotyetbeensubjecttoclinicaltrials,thebestapproachtotakeintreatingviral illnesses may be a holistic one. This would involve the use of severalantiviralproductstogetherwithimmune-boostingnutrientssuchasvitaminsA,CandE,zinc,selenium,CoQ10andprobiotics.
Availability: From most good herbal remedy shops (e.g. A. Vogel, iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Polysaccharides, glycoproteins, alkamides, volatile oilsand flavonoids. An immunostimulant which helps the body boost its immunesystem.Echinaceaisprimarilyusedforviralbronchitis.
Collection&Preparation:Canbetakenasaherbjuice,afreeze-driedcapsuleoratablet.Youcanalsomakeateabydryingtherootsoutfortwoweeksandbrewitwith8ouncesofwater.
Dosage: Juice 6-9ml for 8 weeks, capsule 100mg three times a day, tablet6.78mgthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Itchinessorarash.
Contraindications:Donottakeifsufferingwithauto-immunedisorderssuchasMS.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses: Influenza, urinal tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, genitalherpes,gumdisease,acne,psoriasis,sinusinfections,etc.
WatchEchinaceaHerbHealthBenefits
3.Astragalus
Astragalusisalsocalledhuangqiormilkvetch.Itcomesfromatypeofbeanorlegume. While there are multiple species of astragalus, most astragalussupplementscontainastragalusmembranaceus.Theherbissaidtooffermultiplehealthbenefitsformultipleconditions,includingheartbenefits.
Astragalusappearstoworkbystimulatingtheimmunesystem.Ithasantioxidanteffects that inhibit free radical production. In the body, free radicals damagecellsandarelinkedtomanyhealthproblemsassociatedwithaging.
Availability:Most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb, Natures Remedy,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Polysaccharides, choline, betaine, rumatakenin, [beta]-sitosterol.Astragalus has beenused inTraditionalChineseMedicine for yearsbecause it’s an adaptogen which means that it’s great for helping the bodyagainstphysical,mentalandemotionalstress.ItisprimarilyusedfortheHumanpapillomavirus(HPV)viruswhichcauseswarts.
Collection&Preparation:Itisavailableasatabletorcapsule.Therootneedstobedried.Canalsobemadeintoateabymixing3–6ozofdriedrootin12ozofwater.
Dosage:200mgtwiceaday.Teacanbetakenthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Canmakeyourimmunesystemmoreactive,sowillhaveanimpactonthosewhosufferfromanauto-immunedisease.
Contraindications:Donotuseifpregnantorbreastfeeding,alsoavoidifyousufferfromblooddisorders.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Dietary supplements, colds, cancer, HIV, aids, energy levels,diarrhea,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonAstragalusRootBenefits
4.Cat’sClaw
A new botanical nutrient, Uncaria Tomentosa, is being called by many the“MiracleHerbfromtheRainForestofPeru”.Ithasbeendrawingincreasinglymore interest among the proponents of natural health care.Although virtuallyunheard of in the United States until recently, the beneficial effects of thePeruvian herb Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as “una de gato” inSpanishand“cat’sclaw” inEnglish,havebeenstudiedat researchfacilities inPeru,Austria, Germany, England,Hungary and Italy, since the 1970’s. Thesestudies suggest that the herb may be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis,bursitis, allergies, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, herpes,organic depression, menstrual irregularities and disorders of the stomach andintestines.
Availability:Mostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties:Quinovic Acid Glycosides, which work to protect the
body’simmunesystem.Cat’sClawisprimarilyusedfortheherpesvirus.
Collection&Preparation:It isavailableasa tea–bycrushingthevinesandmixingthemwithboilingwater,capsuleortinctureforms.
Dosage:60–100mgperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Headaches,dizzinessandvomiting.
Contraindications: Do not take if you suffer from low blood pressure,leukaemiaorauto-immunediseases.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Digestive problems, colitis, anti-inflammatory, fungal issues,Crohn’sdisease,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonCat’sClaw
5.Elderberry
Thecommonblackelderberry (Sambucusnigra)has longbeenusedasa foodandisalsooneofnature’soldestremedies.Itappearstobeparticularlyeffectiveagainst the influenza virus. In an independent study conducted in Norway,elderberry extractwas shown to significantly reduce the duration of influenzasymptomsbyapproximatelyfourdays.
Elderberry extract is believed to act by binding to, and so disarming, the tinyprotein spikes on the surface of the virus, bywhich it penetrates living cells.Flavonoids,includingquercetin,mayalsobeinvolvedinthetherapeuticactionsof elderberry according to other studies. These flavonoids include anthocyansthatarepowerfulantioxidantsandprotectcellsagainstdamage.Theactivityofelderberryagainstotherviralinfections,includingHIVandherpes,hasalsobeenstudied. It was found to significantly reduce the infectivity of HIV strains inlaboratorytestsandtocompletelyinhibitthereplicationoffourstrainsofherpessimplexvirus,includingtwostrainsresistanttothedrugacyclovir.
Availability: Inmost good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb,Lewtress,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Flavanoids–includingquercetin,whichcoatsvirusesandprevents them from penetrating and infecting healthy cells. Elderberries areprimarilyusedagainsttheinfluenzavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Canbetakenasa juiceorusedinyourfood.YoucanalsobuyElderberryliquidcapsules.
Dosage:Takethejuiceextractsfornolongerthan12weeksor15mlfourtimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Nausea,vomitingandseverediarrhea.
Contraindications:Donotuseifyousufferfromauto-immunediseases.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Reducescancercellformation,antioxidant,protectsbloodvessels,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonElderberryHealthBenefits
6.LemonBalm
Lemonbalmisamemberofthemintfamilyandisconsideredacalmingherb.ThisherbisalsoknownasMelissaofficinalis,andithasbeenusedforcenturiestoreduceanxiety,promotesleepandimprovesymptomsofindigestion.Lemonbalm has been researched by experts and found to offer many great healthbenefits.
LemonbalmisnativetoEuropebutiscommonlygrownallovertheworld.Itisoftengrowninherbgardenstoattractbeeswhichhelppollinate therestof thegarden.Theplantgrowsup to twofeetandhas lightyellowflowers thatgrowwhere the leavesmeet thestem.Theleavesaresimilar inshapetomint leavesandhaveatartandsweetsmelllikelemons.
ThisherbhasbeenusedbytheancientGreeksandRomanstotreatinsectbitesandstings.The leavesgiveoffastrong tart smell that insectsdonot like.Theinsect-repellent essential oils it contains include citronella andmonoterpenaldehydes citralA andB.The essential oils that are released fromtheleavesarealsousedtotreatinsomnia,nervousnessandanxiety.
Availability: Inmost good herbal remedy and health food stores. (e.g. iHerb,NaturesRemedy,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Terpenes, tannins and eugenol which have a strong
calmingandantiviraleffect.Lemonbalmisprimarilyusedfortheherpesvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasacapsuleorcanbemadeintoateabymixing1ozoffreshlemonbalmleaveswithboilingwater.
Dosage:80mgperday,fornolongerthanfourmonths.
PossibleSideEffects:Abdominalpain,dizziness,wheezing.
Contraindications:Donotallowchildrenundertheageof12totake.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Anxiety, sleepproblems, restlessness,highbloodpressure, insectbites,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonHowtoMakeyourOwnLemonBalmTincture
7.LiquoriceRoot
Liquorice root is the root and underground stems of an herbaceous perennialplant Glycyrrhiza glabra. Greek, Egyptians, Chinese and other Asian nationshave been using Licorice root for flavoring, confectionery applications andmedicinalpurposesforcenturies.ItisalsoknownassweetrootandGanZaoinChinese. Licorice Root contains a number of healthy compounds such asflavonoids, volatile oils, plant sterols, coumarins, glycosides, asparagine,chalcones, glycyrrhizic acid and anethole. Licorice Root has a peculiar sweetflavorwithafainthintofaniseflavorandissweeterthansugar(sucrose).
Licoricehasbeenusedfor flavoringandsweetness incandiesbut recentlyhasbeen replaced with Anise. It is still used as a sweetener in herbal medicines,lozenges/herbalcoughcandies,andtobaccoproducts.However,studiessuggestthatalongwith itsaslewofhealthbenefitsakeycompound inLicoriceRoot,glycyrrhizicacid,mayraisebloodpressurelevelswhenusedinlargequantitiesonregularbasis.Therefore,processedLicoriceRoot isalsoavailable thatdoesnot contain glycyrrhizic acid and can be found under the label ofDeglycyrrhizinatedLicoriceRoot(DGLroot).
Availability:Most good herbal remedy and health food shops. (e.g.Amazon,HollandandBarrett)
Antiviral Properties: Flavonoids, volatile oils, plant sterols, coumarins,glycosides,asparagine,chalcones,glycyrrhizicacidandanethole.Liquoricerootisprimarilyusedforviralhepatitis.
Collection & Preparation:Can be prepared in food or bought in medicinaltinctureform.
Dosage:1mlthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Highbloodpressure,lowpotassiumlevels,fatigue,waterandsodiumretention.
Contraindications:Donotuseifyousufferfromhighbloodpressure,hormonesensitive conditions, kidney disease, hypertonia or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Alternatives:St.JohnsWort.
OtherUses:Lowercholesterol,ulcers,skindisorders,liverproblems,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonHerbLiquoriceorLiquoriceRoot
8.OliveLeaf
Oliveleafextractscanbeapowerfulhealthtonictodestroybacteriaandboostimmunity.According toastudydoneby thescientists fromRappaportFacultyofMedicine, Israel, olive leaves practically kill almost all bacteria, includingCandidaalbicansandEcoli.ResearchthatfollowedtheIsraelstudyalsofavoredthesameresultsunderscoringolive leaf’spotentialasan immune-booster.Theolivetreeanditsleavesarepopularforitsabilitytoresistinfections,attacksbymicrobes and insects.With years of research scientists have now isolated theunique molecule, oleuropein responsible for the antibacterial effects of oliveleaves.
Availability:Most good herbal remedy and health food shops. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Olea europaea which blocks viral cell repetition andworkstoreducefevers.Oliveleafisprimarilyusedtofighttheinfluenzavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Canbeconsumedwithfood(oliveoil)orpurchasedasaliquidextract.
Dosage:Liquidextract30mlperdayorwithfood30–40g.
PossibleSideEffects:Canaffectrespirationallergies.
Contraindications: Do not use if pregnant, breast feeding or suffer fromdiabetes.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: High blood pressure, insect bites, cancer, age-related diseases,arthritis,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoontheMedicinalUsesofOliveLeaf
9.BlackSeed
This humble, but immensely powerful seed, kills MRSA, heals the chemicalweaponpoisonedbody,stimulatesregenerationofthedyingbetacellswiththediabetic’spancreas,andyettoofewevenknowitexists.Theseedsoftheannualflowering plant,Nigella Sativa, have been prized for their healing propertiessince time immemorial.While frequently referred to among English-speakingcultures as Roman coriander, black sesame, black cumin, black caraway andonionseed,itisknowntodayprimarilyasblackseed,whichisattheveryleastanaccuratedescriptionofitsphysicalappearance.
The earliest record of its cultivation and use come from ancient Egypt.Blackseed oil, in fact,was found in Egyptian pharoahTutankhamun’s tomb, datingback to approximately 3,300 years ago. InArabic cultures, black cumin is soknownasHabbatulbarakah,meaningthe“seedofblessing.”ItisalsobelievedthattheIslamicprophetMohammedsaidofitthatitis“aremedyforalldiseasesexceptdeath.”
Availability: Inmost good herbal remedy and health food shops. (e.g. iHerb,
AmazingHerbs,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone,thymol, carvacrol, nigellicine and alpha-hedrin – all of which work towardsboostingyourimmunesystem.BlackseedismostlyknownforitsworkinHIVtreatment.Itisalsousedforpainrelief.
Collection& Preparation:Mix the oil with another liquid, such as juice oryogurt.Theseedsmustbeheated.
Dosage:3teaspoonsperday.
Possible Side Effects:Do not take if pregnant – black seed can prevent theuterusfromcontracting.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfrombleedingdisorders,diabetesorlowbloodpressure.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Headaches, constipation, combating the side effects ofchemotherapy,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonBlackSeedOil
10.GreenTea
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) has been considered a medicinal remedy inChinesetraditionforover4000yearsanditsmanyhealthbenefitshaverecentlybeenvalidatedbyscientificmethods.Green teacontainsagroupof flavonoidscalled catechins, which appear to inhibit viral infections by binding to thehaemagglutininoftheinfluenzavirusandsopreventingthevirusfromenteringthehostcells.Research inChinahasshown thatgreen teaextractand isolatedcatechinderivativesalsoactbyblockingtheviralenzymesreversetranscriptaseandDNApolymerasewhichallowvirusestoreplicate.ThegreenteacompoundstestedwereeffectiveininhibitingHIV,herpessimplexandhepatitisBvirus.Sofar, no clinical studies have been carried out to further explore green tea’spotentialasatreatmentforinfluenzaandotherviraldiseases.
Availability:Inmostgoodhealthfoodandherbalremedystores
Antiviral Properties:Catechins which inhibit viral infections by binding thehaemagglutinin,preventingitfrominfectinghealthycells.Greenteaisprimarilyusedtopreventtheinfluenzavirusfromspreadingfurther.
Collection&Preparation:Availableastealeavesorteabags.Brewtheteabymixing20zofleaveswith6ozofwater.Greenteaisalsoavailableasacapsule
ortablettobetaken3–4timesdaily.
Dosage:Nomorethan5cupsaday.
Possible SideEffects:Headaches, nervousness, sleep problems, dizziness andirritability.
Contraindications: Do not use if pregnant or breast feeding or suffer frombloodpressureissues.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Cancer,weightloss,cholesterol,Alzheimer’s,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonGreenTea’sAnti-InflammatoryEffects
11.Ashwagandha
For centuries, Ayurvedic medicine has used the ashwagandha (Withaniasomnifera)plantasanaphrodisiac,toremedygeneralweaknessandexhaustion,aswellasforitsstress-relievingqualities.InAyurveda,certainherbalformulasare considered to be rejuvenating. These formulas are calledRasáyana tonics,and theyare typically takenover longperiodsof time to regeneratebothbrainand body tissue. In rare cases an herb is so potent and has so many healthbenefitsthatAyurvedaconsidersittobeaRasáyanatherapyonitsown.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Steroidalactonesandalkaloidswhichworkstorejuvenatethebodyandmind.Ashwagandhaisprimarilyusedtofightviralinfectionsandrepairthebodyafterwards.
Collection & Preparation: Traditionally, ashwagandha is taken in a powderform.Alevelteaspoonofthepowderoftheherbcanbeboiledinacupofmilkfor tenminutes over a low flame and then takenwith a teaspoon of a naturalsugar(likehoney)andaquarter-teaspoonofaspicelikecinnamonorginger.Ahalf-teaspoon of clarified butter (ghee) can be added to enhance the herb’seffect.
Dosage:Twiceadayfromonetothreemonths.
PossibleSideEffects:Stomachupset,diarrheaandvomiting.
Contraindications: Do not use if you suffer from diabetes, blood pressureissues,stomachulcersorauto-immunediseases.
Alternatives:Shatavari.
OtherUses:Stress,fatigue,lackofconcentration,stabilizesbloodsugar,lowercholesterol,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonTop5BenefitsofAshwagandha
12.Ginseng
There are three different herbs commonly referred to as ‘ginseng’: Asian orKoreanginseng(Panaxginseng),Americanginseng(Panaxquinquefolius),andSiberianginseng.Thelatterherb,althoughitsharesmanyofthepropertiesofthefirsttwo,isnotatrueginseng.
IntraditionalChineseherbalmedicine,Panaxginsengwasusedtostrengthenthedigestion and the lungs, calm the spirit, and increase overall energy. It isconsidered to be an adaptogen, helping to balance the body and strengthen itunderwhateverstressfulcircumstancesitencounter.Itiswidelyusedinenergydrinks and supplements that support vitality, mental alertness and sportsperformance.Ginsenghas been reported to have anticancer, anti-inflammatoryabilities. But there is also evidence that Panax can help support immunity,especiallywithregardtocoldsandflu.
Availability: In most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb, SimplySupplements,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Ginsenosides,whichworksonmanyoftheareasthebodyandhelpsimprovethebody’sresistancetostressandincreasesvitality.Ginsengisprimarilyusedtofightinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasacapsuleortablet.
Dosage:2gdailyanddon’ttakeforlongerthanthreemonthsatatime.
PossibleSideEffects:Nervousness,insomnia,headachesandstomachupset.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfromdiabetesorareonwarfarinorantidepressants.
Alternatives:Rhodiola.
OtherUses:Stress,fatigue,toincreaseenergylevels,etc.
WatchvideoonHealthBenefitsofGinseng
13.GinkgoBiloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known asMaidenhair, has been traced back nearly 300millionyearsmaking it theoldestsurviving treespeciesonearth.TheChinesehaveused theplantmedicinally for eonsbutmanyof themodernapplicationscome from the researchofGerman scientists.Ginkgo is aprescriptionherb inGermany.
Ginkgoextracthasprovenbenefitstoelderlypersons.Thisancientherbactstoenhanceoxygenutilizationandthusimprovesmemory,concentration,andothermentalfaculties.Theherbalextracthasalsobeenshowntosignificantlyimprovelong-distance vision andmay reverse damage to the retina of the eye. Studieshavealsoconfirmeditsvalueinthetreatmentofdepressioninelderlypersons.Theginkgoextractmayprovidereliefforpersonswithheadache,sinusitis,andvertigo.Itmayalsohelprelievechronicringingintheearsknownastinnitus.
Availability: In most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb, WoodsSupplements,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Terpenoids and flavanoids which improve bloodcirculation and kill bacteria. Ginkgo Biloba is primarily used to fight theinfluenzavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableincapsuleandtabletform.
Dosage:120–240mgperday.Thedosagedependsontheillnessyouaretryingtocombat.
Possible Side Effects: Stomach upset, headache, dizziness, constipation,forcefulheartbeat,andallergicskinreactions.
Contraindications:Donotuseifyousufferfromdiabetes,seizures,infertility,bleedingdisordersorforchildren.
Alternatives:Propolis.
OtherUses:Dementia, Lyme disease, vertigo,mood disturbances, Raynaud’ssyndrome,etc.
WatchthefollowingvideoonGinkgoBilobaHealthBenefits
14.ColloidalSilver
Colloidal silver, which is a colloid consisting of silver particles suspended inliquid, and formulations containing silver saltswere usedbyphysicians in theearly20thcentury,buttheirusewaslargelydiscontinuedinthe1940sfollowingthedevelopmentofsaferandeffectivemodernantibioticsandantivirals.Sincethe1990s,colloidal silverhasagainbeenmarketedasanalternativemedicine,oftenwithextensive“cure-all”claims.Colloidalsilverproductsremainavailableinmanycountriesasdietarysupplementsandhomeopathicremedies.
Availability: Inmostgoodherbal remedystores. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon,HigherNature).
AntiviralProperties:Nanosilverhasatoxicitytobacterialandviralpathogens.Theypreventviruses from infectinghealthycells.ColloidalSilver isprimarilyusedtofighttheHIVvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Available as a spray, a tonic, drops, or used in anebulizer.
Dosage:Oneounceduringa24hourperiod.
PossibleSideEffects:Iftakenincorrectly,ColloidalSilvercanimpactonyourinternalorgans,andgiveyourkinablue-ishtint.
Contraindications:Donottakewhenpregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Ear infections, weight loss, gonorrhea, ringworm, psoriasis,influenza,etc.
Watch:TheInternalBenefitsColloidalSilver
15.Zinc
Zinchasbecomeapopular treatmentfor thecommoncold.Doctorsaystakingzincsyrup,tabletsorlozengesmaybeaneffectivetreatmentforcolds.A2011Cochrane review suggests that taking zinc supplements within a day of thesymptomsstartingwillspeeduprecoveryandlessentheseverityofsymptoms.
Doctors may recommend zinc supplements for people who have zincdeficiencies. Strict vegetarians, breastfeeding women, alcohol abusers andpeoplewhohaveapoordietareathigher riskofzincdeficiency,asare thosewithcertaindigestiveproblems,suchasCrohn’sdisease.
Availability:Availableinmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iherb,Amazon,MyProtein).
Antiviral Properties: Pyrithione and hinokitiol. Zinc inhibits the rhinovirusreplicationmakingitprimarilyusedfortheherpessimplexvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatabletorcapsule.
Dosage:Donottakemorethan40mgperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Coughing,stomachpain,fatigue.
Contraindications: Do not take if you suffer from diabetes, haemodialysis,arthritisorifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Macular degeneration, ADHD, head injuries, weight gain,osteoporosis,etc.
WatchvideoonZincandHealth
16.PauD’arco
Paud’arcoisatreewithextremelyhardwood.ItsnameisthePortuguesewordfor “bow stick,” an appropriate term considering the tree’s use by the nativeSouthAmericanIndiansformakinghuntingbows.Thebarkandwoodareusedtomakemedicine.
NativetoSouthAmerica,Paud’arco(Tabebuiaavellanedae),hasbeenusedinherbalmedicinewithawiderangeofhealthconcerns, includingpain,arthritis,inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis), fever, dysentery, boils andulcers, and various cancers. Other names for Pau d’arco include Ipe roxo,LaPacho,TabebuiaavellanedaeandTahebootree.Evenasearlyas1873,therearereportsofmedicinalusesofPaud’arco.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Naphthoquinones: lapachol and beta-lapachone. Paud’arcoisprimarilyusedforviralgastroenteritis.
Collection&Preparation:Availableastablets,capsules,powder,tinctureoratea.Theteaismadebyboilingoneteaspoonofthepowderinboilingwaterfor
5–15minutes.
Dosage:Nomorethan2gperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Nausea,diarrhea,vomiting,internalbleeding.
Contraindications: Do not take if suffering from bleeding disorders, or ifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Bronchitis,stomachinflammation,jointpain,boils,wounds,etc.
WatchPauD’arcoHerbHealthBenefitsandSideEffects
17.St.John’sWort
StJohn’swortisaherbalremedyalsoknownashypericum.Itisextractedfromthe flowers and leaves of the plantHypericum perforatum and has been usedover many centuries as a traditional medicine for wound healing and mentalhealth problems. It remains popular with the public, bought over-the-counterfromhealthfoodshopsandchemistsasatreatmentfordepression.However,itshould strictly be considered a drug since it contains pharmacologically activeagents,includinghypericin.SJW’smechanismofactionisunknownbutitmayinhibitthereuptakeofserotoninandnoradrenaline,inhibitmonoamineoxidase,up-regulateserotoninreceptors,anddecreaseserotoninreceptorexpression.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Naphthodianthrones (hypericin, pseudohypericin,protohypericin, protopseudohypericin, and cyclopseudohypericin), flavonoids(quercetin, rutin,and luteolin),hyperforin,severalaminoacids,and tannins.StJohn’sWortisprimarilyusedforhepatitisBandherpes.
Collection&Preparation:Availableastablets,liquidextractortea.Theteaismadebymixing1–2teaspoonsoftheherbwithboilingwater.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis300mgthreetimesaday.
Possible Side Effects:Dry mouth, sensitivity to sunlight, dizziness, stomachupset.
Contraindications: Do not take if you’re using birth control pills, bloodthinnersorcancerdrugs.
Alternatives:Liquoriceroot.
OtherUses:Depression,anxietydisorders.
WatchBenefitsofSt.JohnsWort
18.Cordyceps
Cordycepsisnotyourtypicalfriendlygrocerystoremushroom.It’safungusthatattaches itself to a caterpillar and uses the carcass as food. It then shoots outMedusa-likestems thatyieldspores looking for theirownhosts. Inaway, it‘sbothafungusandacaterpillar,becausethecaterpillarplaysanimportantroleintheendproduct.Cordycepsgrowsin thehigheraltitudesof theHimalayasandTibetan plateau, and has been prized as amedicine for centuries in Tibet andChina.Althoughitwasusedtotreatanumberofailments,Cordycepswasalsohighlyregardedasanaphrodisiac.Becauseofitsastronomicalcost,itwasusedonlybytheverywealthy.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Gratefulgoose,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Nucleosides,sterides,polysaccharides,proteins,essentialaminoacids.CordycepsareprimarilyusedforthehepatitisBvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatablet,capsuleortoeatinfood.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis5–10gdaily.
PossibleSideEffects:Sickness,stomachupset.
Contraindications: Do not use if you suffer from auto-immune disorders,bleedingdisordersorifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Othervarietiesofmushrooms.
Other Uses:Kidney disorders, anemia, irregular heartbeat, weakness, weightloss,etc.
WatchTheAmazingHealthBenefitsofCordyceps
19.Rhodiola
Rhodiolaroseaisaremarkableherbthathasawideandvariedhistoryofuses.Itisthoughttostrengthenthenervoussystem,fightdepression,enhanceimmunity,elevate the capacity for exercise, enhance memory, aid weight reduction,increasesexualfunctionandimproveenergylevels.Ithaslongbeenknownasapotent adaptogen. Adaptogens are substances that increase the body’s overallresistanceandhelptonormalizebodilyfunctions.
Rhodiolahasalegendaryhistorydatingbackthousandsofyears.In77A.D.,theGreekphysicianDioscoridesdocumentedthemedicalapplicationsof theplant,whichhethencalledrodiariza, inhisclassicmedical textDeMateriaMedica.The Vikings depended on the herb to enhance their physical strength andendurance, while Chinese emperors sent expeditions to Siberia to bring back“the golden root” for medicinal preparations. The people of central AsiaconsideredateabrewedfromRhodiolaroseatobethemosteffectivetreatmentforcoldandflu.Mongolianphysiciansprescribeditfortuberculosisandcancer.
Availability: In most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. Pureclinika, iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Salidroside. Rhodiola is an adaptogen that worksprimarilytocombatstressinthebodyandfightoffthecommoncold.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatablet,capsuleortincture.
Dosage:Nomorethan600mgperday.Donottakeforlongerthan10weeksatatime.
PossibleSideEffects:Anxiety,restlessness,insomnia,nausea.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Increasingenergy,highcholesterol,depression,diabetes,etc.
WatchvideoonRhodiola
20.Boneset
The herb Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has a long history of being usedeffectivelyincasesofinfluenzaandfever.NativeAmericansalsousedbonesetinthetreatmentofachesandpainsofthestructuralsystemandinthehealingofbonesthathadbeenbroken.Manyoftheearlyusesofbonesetwereintheformofpoulticesortopicalplasters.Takingtheherbintheformofaninfusionorteadidnotbecomepopularuntilaroundthemid-1900s.
Theherb`scommonnameofbonesetwasderived from itsability tobreak theterriblefeversassociatedwithinfluenza.Thesefeversweresuchintheirseveritythat they were described as going to the bone or as bone fever. Writing ofboneset,Dr.EdwardEShook,N.D.,DC,pointedouttheamazingsuccessoftheherb as itwasusedvery successfully in theUnitedStates for the treatmentofinfluenza,adiseasewhichkilledsome6-8millionpeopleduringtheFirstWorldWar
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Calcium,magnesium,PABA,potassium,andvitaminsCandB-complex.Bonesetisprimarilyusedtotreattheinfluenzavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatinctureortea.Theteacanbemadebymixingoneounceofleaveswithboilingwater.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis2gofleavesandflowers.
PossibleSideEffects:Liverdamage,vomiting,stomachupset.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyouhaveanallergytoragweed,ifyousufferfromliverdiseaseorifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Jointpain, fluid retention, increasesweatandurineoutput, fever,etc.
WatchBonesetHerbBenefits
21.Eleuthero
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as eleuthero, hasbeen used for centuries in Eastern countries, including China and Russia.Despite its name, it is completely different from American (Panaxquinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), and has different activechemical components. The active ingredients in Siberian ginseng, calledeleutherosides,arethoughttostimulatetheimmunesystem.
Siberianginsengwastraditionallyusedtopreventcoldsandfluandtoincreaseenergy,longevity,andvitality.ItiswidelyusedinRussiaasan“adaptogen.”Anadaptogenisasubstancethatissupposedtohelpthebodybettercopewitheithermentalorphysicalstress.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores (e.g.Naturesremedy,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Polysaccharideswhichincreasesthebody’sproductionofinterferon.Eleuthero isprimarilyused for theherpes simplexvirus,but it alsoworkstoboosttheimmunesystem,helpingthebodyfightthecoldandfluvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatabletorcapsule.
Dosage:400mgperdayforviralinfections.
Possible Side Effects: Drowsiness, depressions, anxiety, muscle spasms,changesinheartpace.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfrombleedingdisorders,diabetes,heart conditions, hormone sensitive conditions, high blood pressure ormentalconditions.
Alternatives:Otherginsengproducts.
OtherUses:Highbloodpressure,kidneydisease,diabetes, insomnia,arthritis,etc.
WatchvideoonEleuthero
22.RedRoot
Redrootasamedicinalplantispowerful,yetunderutilized.Itcanbefoundinthe1898editionofKing’sAmericanDispensatorywithgoodrepresentation,butmanyotherEclectictextsonherbalmedicinedisplaylittleornonoticeofit.Itwasn’tconsideredpowerfulorusefuluntil themid1900’s.Theplanthasbeenmisrepresentedduetoalackoftherapeuticevidence.Thelackcouldcomeasaresult of the part of theplant beingused -mostly the leaves–whichwerenotnearaspowerfulastherootandverydifferentinaction.Anotherfactormayalsobe that the importance of a certain organ system’smajor role in function anddisease, namely the spleen/lymphatic system, went unrecognized in Westernmedicineforsolong.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.
Gratefulgoose,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Tannins,triterpenes,flavanoidsandceanothine.Redrootisprimarilyusedforthetreatmentofasthma,bronchitisandcoughs.
Collection&Preparation:Available as a tinctureor a capsule.Red root canalsobemadeintoateabyaddingthedriedrootpowdertoboilingwaterfor10–15minutes.
Dosage:1teaspoon3–4timesaday.
Possible Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats,vomiting,diarrheaandlossofappetite.
Contraindications: Do not take if you’re using iron supplements, bloodthinners,ifyouarepregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Ceanothusovalis.
OtherUses:Dentalcare,fever,gonorrhea,insomnia,dysentery,etc.
WatchvideoonRedroot
23.Reishi
The water-soluble polysaccharides, beta-glucans and hetero-beta-glucans, areactiveingredientsfoundintheredreishimushroom,whichisthehighest-qualityform you can get. These polysaccharides boost the immune system, fighttumours and lower blood pressure.Reishi also contains the ling zhi-8 protein,whichboosts theimmunesystem,too.Supplementingwithreishi isconsideredto be very safe, but patients undergoing organ transplants or usingimmunosuppressive drugs should be careful because any immune-modulatingsubstancecaninteractadversely.
Availability: Inmost good heath food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Polysaccharide, which helps protect damaged cells.Reishi mushrooms are primarily used to fight viral gastroenteritis andbronchitis.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasanextractortobeusedinfood.
Dosage:6–12gperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Drynessofthemouth, throat,andnasalareaalongwithitchiness,stomachupset,nosebleed,andbloodystools.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyou’resufferingfrombleedingdisorders,lowbloodpressure,thrombocytopeniaorifyouarepregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Othermushroomproducts.
Other Uses: High cholesterol, kidney disease, sickness, fatigue, high bloodpressure,etc.
WatchHealthBenefitsofReishiMushroom
24.Turmeric
Turmericistherootstalkofatropicalplantthat’spartofthegingerfamily.Oneof themaincomponentsof thespice isasubstancecalledcurcuminwhichhaspotentially healing properties. Turmeric has been used formany thousands ofyears in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for conditions includingheartburn,diarrhea,stomachbloating,colds,fibromyalgiaanddepression.
Availability: Inmost good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Curcuminwhichinterfereswiththereproductionofviralcells.TurmericisprimarilyusedfortheherpessimplexvirusandHIV.
Collection&Preparation:Availableastabletsoraspicetousewithfood.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis500mgfourtimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Stomachupset,nausea,dizziness,ordiarrhea.
Contraindications: Do not take if you suffer from gallbladder problems,bleeding disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, hormone sensitiveconditions,infertilityorirondeficiency.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses:Arthritis, heart burn, liver problems, headaches, ringworm, skinconditions,etc.
WatchHealthBenefitsofTurmeric
25.Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is widely used as a spice when cooking,especiallyinMediterraneandishes.Itisalsousedforitsfragranceinsoapsandothercosmetics.Traditionally, rosemaryhasbeenusedmedicinally to improvememory,relievemusclepainandspasm,stimulatehairgrowth,andsupportthecirculatoryandnervoussystems.It isalsobelievedto increasemenstrualflow,act as an abortifacient (causing miscarriage), increase urine flow, and treatindigestion. Almost none of these uses have been studied scientifically inhumans. However, one study in humans found that long term daily intake ofrosemarypreventsthrombosis.
Inthelab,rosemaryhasbeenshowntohaveantioxidantproperties.Antioxidantscan neutralize harmful particles in the body known as free radicals, whichdamagecellmembranes, tamperwithDNA,andevencausecelldeath.Alsointhe lab, rosemary oil appears to have antimicrobial properties (killing somebacteriaandfungiintesttubes).Itisn’tknownwhetherrosemarywouldhavethesameeffectinhumans.
Availability: Inmost good health food and herbal remedy stores (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Carnosicacidandrosmarinicacidwhichboostthebody’simmunesystemandhelpfightoffviralinfections.Rosemaryisprimarilyusedtofightinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasanoilora leafwhichcanbeused infood or tomake a tea. The tea ismade bymixing fresh or dried leaveswithboilingwaterfor10–15minutes.
Dosage:The leafstandarddosage is4–6gperday.Theoil is recommendedat0.1–1ml.
Possible Side Effects: Vomiting, uterine bleeding, kidney discomfort, skinsensitivity.
Contraindications:Donot take if youhave an allergy to aspirin, suffer frombleedingdisordersorifyou’repregnantofbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Othermembersofthemintfamily.
OtherUses:Digestive problems, high blood pressure, gallbladder complaints,hairgrowth,etc.
WatchTheAmazingHealthBenefitsofRosemary
26.Peppermint
Peppermint(Menthapiperita),apopularflavoringforgum,toothpaste,andtea,is also used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid digestion. Because it has acalmingandnumbingeffect,ithasbeenusedtotreatheadaches,skinirritations,anxiety associated with depression, nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, andflatulence. It is alsoan ingredient inchest rubs,used to treat symptomsof thecommoncold.Intesttubes,peppermintkillssometypesofbacteria,fungus,andviruses,suggestingitmayhaveantibacterial,antifungal,andantiviralproperties.Severalstudiessupporttheuseofpeppermintforindigestionandirritablebowelsyndrome.
Availability: Inmost good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties:Tannins and polyphenols whichwork to fight off viralinfections. Peppermint is primarily used for treating chickenpox and similarviralconditions.
Collection&Preparation:Availableastablets,anoilorasatea.Theteacanbemadebyblendingtheleaveswithhotwaterfor5minutes.
Dosage:Tablets=90mgperday,oil=8mlmixedwith100mlofwater.
PossibleSideEffects:Heartburn,flushing,headaches,andmouthsores.
Contraindications: Do not take if you’re suffering from diarrhea orachlorhydria.
Alternatives:OtherplantsinthemintfamilysuchasLemonBalm.
Other Uses: Sinus infections, heartburn, nausea, pain, menstrual problems,stomachproblems,etc.
WatchvideoonHealthBenefitsofPeppermint
27.Coriander
Corianderisasmall,hollow-stemmedplantintheApiaceaefamily,inthegenus:Coriandum. Its scientific name isCoriandum sativum. Pleasant, aromatic andspicy, its seeds have been in use since ancient times in cooking aswell as aningredientinvarioustraditionalmedicines.
Coriander is native to Southeastern Europe and grown extensively all overEurope,MiddleEast,China,India,andTurkey.Itisrecognizedascilantrointhewest.Thisherbaceousplantgrowsupto2feetinheightwithbranchingstems,featuringdeepgreensoft,hairless,biortri-lobedleaves.Thematureplantbearssmalllightpinkcolorflowersthatsubsequentlyturnintoglobularoroval-shapedfruits(seeds).Theseedsmeasureabout4-6mmindiameterwithcentralhollowcavitycontainingtwoverticalvittaecontainingsomeimportantessentialoils.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Gratefulgoose,iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Monoterpenes, which fights viral cells. Coriander isprimarilyusedforassistancewiththecommoncold.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatincture,infoodoraninfusion.Theinfusion can be made by mixing 150ml of boiling water with powdered
coriander.
Dosage:Theinfusioncanbetakenbeforemeals.Therecommendeddosageforthetinctureis10–20drops
PossibleSideEffects:Increasedsensitivitytosunlight,diarrhea,stomachpain,darkenedskin,depression,lapseofmenstruation,anddehydration.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfromdiabetes,lowbloodpressure,orifyouareallergictomugwort,aniseed,caraway,fennel,ordill.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Upset stomach, haemorrhoids, toothaches, joint pain, bowelspasms,etc.
WatchvideoonCorianderBenefits
28.Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla is a natural herb that has been used by many individuals inconnectionwithliverdiseaseandsyphilis.However,itismostcommonlyusedinconnectionwitheczema,psoriasis,andotherskindisorders.
SarsaparillaisnativetoSouthAmerica,LatinAmerica,Mexico,andtheislandsoftheCaribbeanandwasintroducedtoEuropeinthelate15thcentury.Unlikethe sarsaparilla tree which is primarily found in the Northern hemisphere,sarsaparilla is a vine-like plant that has wood-like stems and long thorns.SarsaparillawasexportedtoEuropebefore1530fromMexico.Itwasusedinthesixteenth-century for syphilis and rheumatism. Sarsaparilla was used in the1850s for syphilis in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia. Sarsaparilla products werepromotedasbloodpurifiers,tonics,diuretics,sweatinducers,andformanyotherapplications andwas often used in patentmedicines.With claims implying itcontainstestosterone,sarsaparillahasbeenusedasamalesexualrejuvenatorandananabolicsteroidreplacementinnaturalbody-buildingformulas.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Sarsasapogenin,sitosterol,stigmasterol,andpollinastanolandflavonoids.Sarsaparillaisprimarilyusedtotreattheherpessimplexvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableascapsulesanextractoratea.Theteais
madebymixing1–2teaspoonsofthepowderedroottoboilingwater.
Dosage:Nomorethan2gperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Stomachirritation.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfromasthma,kidneydiseaseorifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Syphilis,rheumatoidarthritis,skinconditions,digestivedisorders,etc.
WatchvideoaboutSarsaparillaRoot
29.Flaxseed
Theseedsfromtheflaxplantcanbeusedwhole,groundtomakemealorusedtocreateavegetableoilknownasflaxseedoil(orlinseedoil).Flaxseedisoneofthemostconcentratedplantsourcesofomega-3fats.Flaxseedscontain50to60percentomega-3 fattyacids in the formofalpha linolenicacid.Flaxseedsarealso rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, dietary fibre, a group of phytoestrogenscalledlignans,proteinandpotassium.
Theseeds’highfibrecontentisbeneficialforhearthealth,andthefactthattheyare a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids can help lower blood cholesterol andblood pressure. Findings published in the American Journal Of ClinicalNutrition found that the seeds (not the oil) can reduce total and LDL (bad)cholesterolbyasignificantamount,particularly inpost-menopausalwomen.AstudypublishedintheJournalOfClinicalOncologyfoundthatgroundflaxseedsslowthegrowthofprostatecancertumor.
Availability: Inmostgoodhealth foodandherbal remedystores. (e.g.SimplySupplements,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Lignans,whichprotecthealthycellsfromviralinfections.Flaxseedoilisprimarilyusedforupperrespiratorytractinfections.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasanoilorasseedstoeat.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis40–50gperday.
Possible Side Effects: Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea,nausea.
Contraindications:Do not take if you’re suffering from bleeding disorders,diabetes, hormone sensitive conditions, hypertriglyceridemia or blood pressureissues.
Alternatives:Otherseedproducts.
Other Uses: Coronary heart disease, colon damage, bladder infections,depression,etc.
WatchHealthBenefitsofFlaxseed
30.Basil
The king of herbs basil herb is one of the oldest and popular herbal plantsbrimmingwithnotablehealth-benefitingphytonutrients.Thishighlyprizedplantisreveredas“holyherb”inmanytraditionsallaroundtheworld.Basilbelongsto the family of Lamiaceae, in the genus: Ocimum. Its scientific name is“Ocimumbasilicum”.
Basil isoriginallynative to Iran, Indiaandother tropical regionsofAsia.Thisbushy annual herb is especially grown for its medicinally useful leaves andseeds.Basilgrowsbestunderwarm,tropicalclimates.Fully-grownplantreachesonanaverageabout100cminheight.Itsleavesarelightgreen,silkyabout2.5incheslongand1inchbroadwithoppositearrangement.Theflowersarequitelarge,whiteorpurple,arrangedinterminalspikes.
Varietiesofbasilherbexist.“Mediterranean”cultivarwhichistypicallyknownas sweet basil, has light green leaves as opposite to “Asian basil” (Ocinumsanctum)thatfeatureslarge,hairystemsandstalkswithpinkflowers,purpleorred leaves in addition to possessing stronger ‘clove’ like flavor. There is alsolemonbasil,whichhas “lemon” flavor.Thaibasil (O.basilicum ‘Horapha’) issimilarincharacteristicstoAsianbasilbutfeaturesnarrow,pointed,lightgreencolorleaveswithasweetlicoricelikearoma.
Availability: Inmost good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties:Ursolic acid which coats viral cells. Basil is primarilyusedforviralhepatitis.
Collection&Preparation:Available as anoil or canbeused as a herbwithfood.
Dosage:Nomorethan200mlperdayfortwomonths.
PossibleSideEffects:Lowbloodpressure.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyousufferfrombleedingdisorders.
Alternatives:Othersimilarherbs,suchasThyme.
Other Uses: Hair loss, fluid retention, kidney conditions, warts, worminfections,etc.
WatchBasilBenefits
31.Betony
WoodBetonyisahealingherbformanyailments.ThisperennialherbbelongstothefamilyLabiataeandisknownforbeingtall.Itcangrowupto70cmtallandcontainsnumerousbrightpurpleflowers,whichgrowinclustersofupto15,on the very end of the upright, thick green stem.Modern herbalists prescribebetonytotreatanxiety,gallstones,heartburn,highbloodpressure,migraineandneuralgia,and toprevent sweating. It canalsobeusedasanointment forcutsandsores.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Tannins,flavonoidglycosidesandstachydrine.Betonyisprimarilyusedtofighttheinfluenzavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasa tinctureor tea.Canbemade intoateabymixing1–2teaspoonsofthedriedrootwithboilingwater.
Dosage:2–6mlthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Stomachupset.
Contraindications:Do not take if you suffer from low blood pressure or ifyou’repregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Otherherbsfromthemintfamily,suchasSage.
Other Uses: Asthma, digestive problems, intestinal gas, bladder and kidneystones,etc.
WatchBetonyHerbHealthBenefits
32.Cardamom
Cardamomisaseedpod,knownsincecenturies for itsculinaryandmedicinalproperties. The spice is native to evergreen rain forest of southern India andgrown in only few tropical countries. Botanically, it belongs to the family of“Zingiberaceae”andconsistsoftwogenera;ElettariaandAmomum.
Generally, theplantgrowsup to4meters in length in thick clumpsand startsbearingitsprizedseedpodssoonafterabouttwoyearsofplantation.Eachpodmeasuresabout1-2cminlength.
Both Elettaria andAmomum cardamom types feature three-sided podswith athin,yet toughpaperyouter cover. Inside, tiny,deep-brown toblack, aromaticseeds are arranged in vertical rowswith each grain ensheathed by a very thinmembrane. Elettaria pods are small and light green, while amomum pods arelargeranddarkbrown.Thepodsarebeingusedasflavoringbaseinbothfoodanddrinkaswellasinmedicine.
Blackcardamom(Amomumsubulatum)alsoknownasNepalcardamom(bariorkalielaichi) is relativelybigsizedpodof sameZingiberaceae family.Thepodhasdarkbrown,roughoutercoat,measuringabout2-4cminlengthand1-2cmindiameter.Thepodshavecamphor-likeintenseflavorcommonlyusedinspicy
stewsinsubHimalayanplainsofIndia,Pakistan,NepalaswellasinChina.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Mountainroseherbs,iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Terpenes which prevent viral cells from reproducing.Cardamomisprimarilyusedtofightoffinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasanoil,powderorasfood.
Dosage:Thestandarddosageis1.5gperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Chestpains,throattightness,shortnessofbreath.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyou’resufferingfromgallstonesorifyouarepregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:Nutmeg.
OtherUses:Colic,IBS,constipation,liverproblems,bronchitis,heartburn,etc.
WatchCardamomHerbHealthBenefits
33.Chamomile
The term Chamomile actually refers to a range of different daisy-like plants,whichareamemberoftheAsteraceaefamily.Therearemanydifferentspeciesof chamomile, the twomost commonly beingGerman chamomile (Marticariarecutita)andRomanchamomile (Chamaemelumnobile).TheyhavebeenusedsinceAncienttimesfortheircalmingandanti-inflammatoryproperties,andeachoffertheirownadditionalhealthbenefits.
Chamomile is an age-oldmedicinal herb known in ancientEgypt,Greece andRome.Chamomile’spopularitygrewthroughouttheMiddleAgeswhenpeopleturned to it as a remedy for numerous medical complaints including asthma,colic, fevers, inflammations, nausea, nervous complaints, children’s ailments,skin diseases and cancer. As a popular remedy, it may be thought of as theEuropeancounterpartoftheChinesetonicGinseng.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Naturesremedy,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Terpenoids,flavanoids,coumarinsallwhichreducestressinthebody.Chamomileisprimarilyusedforchickenpoxandothersimilarskinviralconditions.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasacapsule,acreamoratea.Theteacanbemadebystewingchamomileflowersinboilingwaterfor5–10minutes.
Dosage:Thestandardcapsuledosageisbetween400and1,600mgperday.Itisrecommendedtodrinkbetweenoneandfourcupsofchamomileteaperday.
PossibleSideEffects:Drowsiness.
Contraindications:Donottakeifyou’reusingsedatives,bloodthinnersorpainkillers.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses: Insomnia, heartburn, digestive disorders, vomiting, colic, skinconditions,etc.
WatchChamomileTeaBenefits
34.Cinnamon
Cinnamon is gathered from the dried inner bark of the branches of a small,tropical,evergreenlaureltree.Thebarkispeeledoffand,asthepiecesaredried,theycurlupintoquills.Thesearethecommoncinnamonsticksthatareusedinherbteasandforbaking.
InChinesemedicine,cinnamonisoneofthemostwidelyused“warming”herbsthat aid in circulationanddigestion. It is a common ingredient in teaused fornausea in pregnancy and also following the baby’s delivery to decreasehaemorrhage.Cinnamon raises vitality,warm the system, stimulates all of thebody’s vital organs, counteracts congestion, improves digestion, relievesabdominalspasmsandaidsinperipheralcirculation.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Healthspan,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Volatileoilswhichpreventviralcellsfromreproducing.Cinnamonisprimarilyusedtofightinfluenza.
Collection & Preparation: Can be taken as juice, powder or prepared withfood.Alsocanbeboughtastabletsandcapsules.
Dosage:1–6gperdayfornolongerthan6weeks.
PossibleSideEffects:Increasedheartrateandpalpitations.
Contraindications:Donottakeifusingblood-thinnerssuchasWarfarin.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Improvingglucoseandlipidlevels,HIV,multiplesclerosis,etc.
WatchTheAmazingHealthBenefitsofCinnamon
35.Clove
Clovesareoneofthehighlyprizedspices,widelyrecognizedallovertheworldfor their medicinal and culinary qualities. They are the “flower buds” fromevergreenrain-foresttreenativetoIndonesia.
Botanically, the spice belongs to the family of Myrtaceae of the genus;Sygyzium, and scientificallynamedasSygiziumaromaticum.The flowerbudsare initially pale in color, gradually turn to green, and, finally develop intobright-red clove buds by the timeof harvesting.Buds are generally pickedupwhentheyreach1.5-2cminlength.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Newwayherbs,iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Carvacrol,thymol,eugenolandcinnamaldehyde.Clove’sareprimarilyusedtofightthecommoncold.
Collection&Preparation:Buywholeclovesratherthanpowder,storetheminacool,darkplaceandcookthemwithinyourfood.Alsoavailableasanoil.
Dosage:15–30dropsoftheoilthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Vomiting,dizziness,diarrhoeaandbloating.
Contraindications: Do not use if allergic to eugenol, suffer from Crohn’sdiseaseorhaveliverproblems.
Alternatives:Basil,marjoram,cinnamon.
Other Uses: Digestion issues, lack of appetite, travel sickness, respirationdiseasesetc.
WatchClove–HerbalMedicinalProperties
36.OregonGrapeRoot
Oregongrapecanhelpthehealingofthosewithchronicandacuteurinarytractinfections,skindiseasessuchaseczemaandpsoriasis,acneandcoldsores.
The time forharvesting the root and stems is fall/winter/early spring, after theberriesfalloffandbeforethenewleavesemerge.Thisensuresthattheenergy,ormedicineoftheplantisconcentrateddownbelowthesoilline.Thestemsandrootscanbescrapedoftheirmedicinalbarkandeitherusedfreshfortincturesordriedforlaterinfusions.
Availability: Available in most good herbal remedy shops. (e.g. iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Isoquinline alkaloids berberine and hydrasine. OregonGrapeRoot isprimarily used for cytomegalovirus, human papillomavirus andtheherpessimplexvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasacreamorcapsules.Canalsobemadeintoateabysimmering1–2teaspoonsofcoarselycutrootfor10–15minutes.
Dosage:Takefornolongerthanaweek,leavingatleasta7daybreak.
PossibleSideEffects:Cancausejaundiceandkernicterusinchildren.
Contraindications:Donottakewhilepregnantorsufferingfromdiarrhoea.
Alternatives:Berberry,coptis,goldenseal.
OtherUses:Stomachulcers,psoriasis,reflux,etc.
WatchOregonGrape–WheretoFindit,HowtoUseit
37.Ginger
Usedforat least twothousandyears inChinaasaremedyforupsetstomachs,Ginger’shistoryinAsiancuisineactuallygoesbackatleastfivethousandyears.
Inmoremoderntimes,itwasbelievedbyEuropeanstohavecomedirectlyfromtheGardenofEden,whilethefirstAmericansettlersusedittomakebeer.Thesedays,Gingerisstillusedbymanyherbologiststocuredigestiveproblems,butithasalsohadsuccessintreatingthecommoncold,motionsicknessandarthritis.
Availability: In most good health food and herbal remedy stores. (e.g.Naturesbest,iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Rhizome and flavanoids which protect healthy cells,preventingvirusreproduction.Gingerisprimarilyusedtofightoffinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Canbeboughtasfood,drink,sweets,capsulesandtablets.Ginger canbemade into a tea bymixing a tablespoonof freshgratedgingerwithboilingwater.
Dosage:Capsulesortablets–250mgfourtimesaday.
Possible Side Effects: Heart burn, stomach discomfort, extra menstrualbleeding.
Contraindications:Do not take if using warfarin, diabetes medication, heartmedicationorasprin.
Alternatives:Honey.
OtherUses:Cancer,diabetics,ulcers,gastricdistress, inflammation, radiation,highbloodpressure,nausea,etc.
WatchHowtoMakeFreshGingerTea–Nature’sAntibiotic
38.Oregano
Oregano is a wonderful herb, both to use in your cooking and to usetherapeutically as needed. Its name means “mountain joy” and oregano wasrevered as a symbol of happiness by the ancientGreeks andRomans. This iswhydrawingsoftendepictbridesandgroomsofthetimecrownedwithalaureloforegano,whichwasawidespreadtradition.
Although oregano is popular in Mediterranean cuisine, in the US, it’s oftenassociated primarilywith a pizza spice. This does thismedicinal herb a greatdisservice,sincetodayweknowthatoreganocontainsvitaminsA,C,E,andK,aswell as fiber, folate, iron,magnesium,vitaminB6, calcium, andpotassium.Additionally, oregano,which is sometimes called “wildmarjoram” in Europe(and is closely related to the herb sweet marjoram) contains potentphytochemicalsthatprovidepotentialhealthbenefits.
Availability:Most good herbal remedy and health food shops. (e.g. Puritan,iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Terpenes and thymol which fight off viral infections.Oreganoisprimarilyusedforrespiratorytractinfections.
Collection&Preparation:Itcanbeusedinfood,orboughtanoiloracream.
Dosage:200mgthreetimesdailyfornolongerthansixweeks.
Possible SideEffects:Can cause a reaction if you’re allergic to plants in theLamaiceaefamily.
Contraindications: Do not take if you suffer from bleeding disorders ordiabetes.
Alternatives:N/A.
Other Uses:Muscle pain, athlete’s foot, dandruff, earaches, influenza, acne,varicoseveins,etc.
WatchMedicinalUsesofOregano
39.Acacia
Acaciatreeshavebeenknownforthousandsofyearsfortheirextremelystrongwood,theirmedicinalpropertiesanddecorativeuses.Hebrewsconsideredacaciato be a sacred wood and there is even a legend according to which Christ’scrownofthornswasmadeofacacia.
Nowadays,acaciahasbecomeincreasinglypopularforitstherapeuticpropertiesand numerous herbalists recommend it as a natural remedy against a widevarietyofdisorders.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Staphylococcus, which fights viral cells. Acacia isprimarilyusedtocurehumanpapillomavirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableinasseeds,honeyandagumwhichneedstobecombinedwithwatertoworksuccessfully.
Dosage:30gdailyfor6weeks.
PossibleSideEffects:Gas,bloating,nauseaandloosestools.
Contraindications:Donottakeifpregnantorbreastfeeding.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Weightlossaid,throatandstomachinflammation,etc.
Clickherefor7usesofAcacia
40.Goldenseal
Goldensealhasbeenusedthroughouthistoryasamedicinalherb,partlybecauseof its amazing ability to stimulate the body’s own immunity.The bushy planttypically growswild in rich soils and has beautiful bright yellow flowers thatproduce gorgeous red oil when infused. Goldenseal is now an endangeredspeciesduetoexcessivewildharvesting.
Goldenseal is also known to have powerful antiviral effects which make itpopularused internallyagainstcoldsandflu. It isalsocommonlyused tohelpwithcoldsoresandherpeslesionswhenmadeintoateaandusedasagargleortopicalwash.Goldensealhastheaddedbenefitofbeingknownforboostingthebody’sownimmunity,whichmakesitagreathelpincoldsandflu.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Berberine and isoquinoline alkaloids which work toinhibitviralcells.Goldensealprimarilyfightsinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatablet,capsule,extractortincture.
Dosage: 0.5 to 1 gram tablets or capsules, 0.3 to 1 milliliter of liquid/fluid
extractor2to4millilitersasatincture–alltakenthreetimesaday.
PossibleSideEffects:Numbness,sickness,diarrhea.
Contraindications:Donotuseifpregnant,breastfeedingorinnewbornbabies.
Alternatives:OregonGrapeRoot.
OtherUses:Eczema,hay fever, hemorrhoids, chronic fatigue, liver problems,etc.
WatchAllAboutGoldensealRoot
41.Juniper
Thenaturalantibacterial,antiviral,diuretic,andantisepticpropertiesofJuniper(Juniperuscommunis)lendthemselveswelltotreatmentofavarietyofinternalandexternalconditions.Historically, itservedasa treatmentagainst infectiousdiseasesaswellasanaidforchildbirth.
Juniper is anevergreen tree thatgrowswild throughoutpartsofEurope,Asia,and North America. Though there are many varieties of juniper, the mostcommoninNorthAmericaistheJuniperuscommunis.Thisparticulartreegrowsupto10feettallandhasneedle-likeleavesandseedcones.Themedicinalpartsof the juniper tree are known as berries but are actually the dark blue-blackscales that come from the cones. Scales from the male juniper ripen in 18monthswhileScalesfromthefemalejuniperripenwithin2to3years.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.NaturesSunshine,iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Amentoflavone which prevent viral cells fromreproducing.Juniperisprimarilyusedforviralgastroenteritis.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasanoil,orasberrieswhichcanbeusedinfood.
Dosage:20–100mgoftheessentialoil,2–10goftheberries.
PossibleSideEffects:Skinandrespiratoryallergicreactionscanoccur.
Contraindications:Donotuseifpregnantorbreastfeeding,donotuseifyousufferfromdiabetes,stomachandintestinaldisordersorbloodpressureissues.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Heartburn,indigestion,urinarytractinfections,kidneyandbladderstones,etc.
WatchJuniperBerryFruitsHealthBenefits
42.Sage
Sage is a herb native to the Mediterranean, belonging to the Lamiaceae (themint) family along with other herbs, such as oregano, lavender, rosemary,thyme,andbasil.Theherbhasgrayleavesupto2.5inlong(6.4cm)andflowersthatareusuallyblue,purple,whiteorpink.Becauseofitsuniquepleasantaromasage is often used as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Sage is used inmedicinetohelpalleviatesymptomsofdigestiveproblemsandmentaldisorders,suchasAlzheimer’sanddepression.
Availability: In most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. Healthspan, iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Tanninsandflavanoidswhichinhibitviralcells.Sageisprimarily used for influenza, but is extremely beneficial in fighting the herpessimplexvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Available as a capsule, creamor a herb for food.Can be made into a tea by placing a teaspoon of powdered or fresh sage inboilingwater.Canbemadeintoatonicbypouringaquartofboilingwateroverahandfulofleavesandleaveittostewovernight.
Dosage:1–2.5gthreetimesaday.
Possible SideEffects:Restlessness, irritability, headaches, stomach upset anddizziness.
Contraindications:Donotuseifyousufferfromdiabetes,highbloodpressureorseizuredisorders.
Alternatives:Rosemary.
Other Uses: Stomach pain, menopause side effects, bloating, memory loss,overproductionofsaliva,etc.
WatchHealthBenefitsofSage
43.GreaterCelandine
Chelidonium majus, or greater celandine, has a long history of use in manyEuropeancountries.AncientGreeks,PlinytheElderandDioscoridesallcalledcelandineaneffectivedetoxifyingagent.TheRomansusedcelandineasabloodcleanser. The French herbalistMauriceMességué cited celandine tea for helpwithliverproblems.ItsusealsoextendstotraditionalChinesemedicine,andit’sbecomeanimportantpartofwesternphytotherapy.Extractsofgreatercelandinehaveexhibitedabroadspectrumoftoxicitytoharmfulorganismsaswellasliverprotectingactivity.Thishasledtotheinclusionofgreatercelandineinliverandgallbladdercleansingandsupportprotocols.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties:Alkanoids and flavanoids which work to fight and killviralcells.Greatercelandineisprimarilyusedtofightoffinfluenza.
Collection&Preparation:Available as a cream or a tincture. The roots areusedtocreatethismedicine.
Dosage:Thecreamcanbeappliedasneeded.Thetincture=1mlthreetimesadayforfourweeks.
PossibleSideEffects:Thecreamcancauseaskinrash.
Contraindications:Donotuse ifyousuffer fromauto-immunediseases, liverdisease,hepatitisorifyouhaveabileductblockage.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Highbloodpressure,warts, IBS, constipation,menstrual cramps,pain,etc.
WatchCelandineHerbBenefits
44.Neem
TheancientNeemtreeofAsiahasbeenthesourceofnaturalmedicinalextractsfor thousands of years. Indian history documents farmers having purposefullytended toandharvestedNeemtrees for theirbeneficialusesas farbackas theVedic period, 1500-600 B.C. Until recent history, the Neem has been usedinternallyandexternallyinthetraditionalAyurvedicherbalhealingtreatmentsinIndia.The last half century has seen the expansion of this herbal product intoother parts of theworldwhere European andAmerican scientists have begunstudiesonthepotentialmedicalbenefitsofNeem.
Withahistory thatspansfromthebeginningofHinduismthrough themodernera, theNeemtreehasprovenitself tobeavaluableherbalaidfordailylivingand for the support of ailments and irritants. As more studies are done withpositiveresultsandmorepeoplelearnaboutNeem,itsuseswillbecomemoreapartofmanyindividuals’dailyhealthregiments.
Availability: In most good herbal remedy stores. (e.g. Theneemteam, iHerb,Amazon)
Antiviral Properties: Polyphenolics such as flavonoids and their glycosides,dihydrochalcone, coumarin and tannins which interact with the surface of theviralcellstostopthemreproducing.Neemisprimarilyusedfortheherpesandhepatitisviruses.
Collection&Preparation:Available as anoil, extract, tincture, capsules andtea–bymixingtheleaveswithboilingwater.
Dosage:Capsules=1–2twiceadayandoil/tincture=5dropsdaily.
Possible Side Effects: If taken for a long period of time, it can harm yourkidneysandliver.
Contraindications:Do not use if you are trying to conceive, or suffer fromauto-immunedisorders,diabetesorhavehadanorgantransplant.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Leprosy,dandruff,eyedisorders,gumdisease,hemorrhoids,bloodvessels,etc.
WatchWonderHerb–Neem
45.Sanguinaria(Bloodroot)
Sanguinarine is a plant alkaloid present in the root of Sanguinaria canadensisand Poppy fumaria species. It is a cationicmolecule which converts from animiniumionformatpHlessthan6toanalkanolamineformatpHgreaterthan7. Sanguinarine and a few other alkaloids constitute the active ingredients ofmostsanguinariaextracts.
Sanguinarine has been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, andantioxidant properties. It has been used as an antiseptic mouth rinse and atoothpaste additive to reduce dental plaque and gingival inflammation.Sanguinarine is found to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by arachidonicacid,collagen,U46619andsub-thresholdconcentrationofthrombin.
Availability:Inmostgoodherbalremedystores.(e.g.iHerb,Amazon)
AntiviralProperties:Alkaloidssanguinarineandberbinewhichkillsoffviralcells.SanguinarineisprimarilyusedtofighttheHIVvirus.
Collection&Preparation:Availableasatincture,apowder,toothpasteandafluid.
Dosage:Tincture=11/2teaspoons,powder=1grainandfluid=10–30dropsdaily.
PossibleSideEffects:Nausea,vomiting,drowsiness,lowbloodpressure.
Contraindications: Do not use if you suffer from intestinal problems orglaucoma.
Alternatives:N/A.
OtherUses:Croup,nasalpolyps,achyjoints,gumdisease,poorcirculation,etc.
WatchvideoforPlantPortrait–Bloodroot
CHAPTER6
LITTLEKNOWNHERBALREMEDYRECIPES
Therearemanyantiviralrecipesthatyoucancreateinyourownhome.Herearesomebrilliantones thatareeasy tocreateandwork to fight thesymptomsofinfluenza:
1.Ginger,garlicandonionsoup-forthecommoncold.
1/3cupeachofchoppedginger,garlicandonion
2cupsofpurewater
Mix together and boil on a high heat for 20 minutes, before simmering foranother10.Straintocompletethesoup.Drinkthisasoftenasyoulike.
2.CinnamonandElderberrysoup–forbronchitis.
1cupofelderberries
1cupoforganichoney
1cinnamonstick
5cloves
1staranise(obtainedfromthestarshapedIlliciumVerumfruitfoundinChina)
1teaspoonoforange,lemonorlimezest
1/3cupofgratedorganicginger
2cupsofwater
Simmer all ingredients in a small pan for 40 minutes until the liquid is wellreduced.Onceyouhavestrained the liquid,andwhilst it’sallwarmstir in thehoney.Takeateaspoonofthiseverymorningandnightuntilyoufeelbetter.
3.‘TheMasterTonic’–forinfluenza.
1cupoffreshchoppedgarlic
1cupoffreshchoppedonion
1cupoffreshgratedgingerroot
1cupoffreshgratedhorseradishroot
1cupofchoppedfreshcayennepeppers
Raw,unfilteredapplecidervinegar
Mix thechoppedvegetablesandgratedherbs togetherand then top itwith theapplecidervinegar.Shakethistonicforatleastonceadayfortwoweeksbeforeconsumingandthendrinktwoormoretimesdaily(1or2ounces)untilyou’rewell. For infections – dose must be taken 5-6 times a day. It is safe duringpregnancyandforchildren(insmalldoses).
4.BasicCold&FluTea–forcoldandflusymptoms.
3–4slicesofgingerwithskin
1cloveofchoppedgarlic
Cayennepowder
Tea(black,oolong,green...yourchoice)
Honey
Milk
Bring3–4slicesoffreshginger(skinon)andonecloveofchoppedgarlictoaboilandsimmerforapproximately20minutes.Usegingerwatertosteepteaandaddcayennepowderashotascanbe tolerated to inducesweating.Addhoneyandmilktoyourpersonalpreferredtaste.Drink3-4cupsperdayandbeforebedandbundleuptoinducesweat.
5.GarlicLemonade–forinfluenza.
2–4choppedgarliccloves
3–4slicesofchoppedginger
2–3lemons
Honey
Water
Ina1quartmasonjarcombine2–4cloveschoppedgarlicand3–4slicesoffreshginger.
Coverandletsteepforatleast20minutes.Addjuiceof2-3lemonsandhoneytotaste (approximately 1/4 cup). You can strain or leave herbs in mixture.Consumewarmandasneeded.Itcanbeconsumedatroomtemperature,butnotchilled.
6.LemonBalmHomeRemedy–forcoldsoresandherpesvirus.
2lemonbalmteabagsor2teaspoonsofdriedlemonbalm
1cupofboilingwater
Steepthelemonbalmintheboilingwaterfor10–15minutesbeforestraining.Saturateacottonballinthemixturebeforedabbingitontothecoldsoreatleast4 timesaday.Youcanalsodrinkafewcupsof lemonbalmteaaday tohelpeliminatethevirusfromyourbody.
7.OnionandHoneyCoughMedicine–forcoughs.
1cupoffreshchoppedonion
Halfcupofrawhoney
Optional for added flavor 1-2 tablespoons of: cloves, ginger,marshmallowroot.
Putchoppedonionsandanyherbsofchoiceintoasmallstainlesssteelorglasspot.Addenoughhoneytocovertheonions.
Turn the pot on low heat and slowly simmer. The honeywill soften and youwanttokeepthetemperatureverylowwhileallowingtheherbstosteepinthehoney.It’sbesttokeepalidontohelpkeepallofthemedicinalpropertiesoftheherbs in the syrup, and just take the lid off to give it a quick stir every fewminutestoensureitdoesn’tburnatall.
Giveit20minutesofsimmering,thenremoveitfromtheheat.Straintheonionsandherbsoutandstoretheremaininghoney(whichmighthaveflecksofherbinitandthisisfine)inasmallglassjarwithalidandkeepitinthefridge.Thiscanbetakenasoftenasnecessary(1tsp.forchildrenand1tbsp.foranyoneabove10years).
8.NeemRecipe–forchickenpox
Neemleaves
Water
Prepareapasteofneem leavesbycrushing themwithwater.Apply thisneempasteontotheskinofthepatient.Oncethediseaseiscuredandthescabshavedroppedoff theskin,givethepatientneembath.For this,soakneemleavesinwarmwaterandbathwiththiswater.
WatchvideoformoreHerbalRemedyRecipes
CHAPTER7
HERBALREMEDIESFORCOMMONAILMENTS
SOURCES
FAQ
1.WhichisthebestmedicaloptionfortreatingchronichepatitisB?
According to this source the following drugs as approved for hepatitis BtreatmentintheUS:
Herbal remedies that work well for chronic hepatitis B and the symptomsinclude:
Neem
Flaxseed
Turmeric
LiquoriceRoot
2.DoherbaltreatmentsofHIVactuallywork?
Therehavebeenmanystudiesintotheeffectofherbaltreatments,inparticularBlackSeed,withverypositiveresults.Ofcourse,youwillneedtoconsultyourdoctor to ensure that none of the herbal remedies will affect your traditionalmedication, but aswith any illness, it cannot hurt to strengthen your immunesystemandgiveyourbodyatbetterchanceatfightingoffinfection.
3.Whatisthebestherbaltreatmentforthroatinfection?
Many herbal remedies work to fight the symptoms of influenza, in particularsorethroats.Thefollowingareconsideredtobeamongstthemostsuccessful:
Honey
Lemon
Echinacea
Garlic
Zinc
4.CanyoutakeGoldensealwithoutinterferingwiththeantibiotics?
Itisalwaysadvisabletocheckwithyourdoctorbeforetakinganyherbalremedyto ensure it doesn’t interact with any medication you are taking. A studyconductedby theUniversityofMaryland, suggests thatGoldensealmayaffectthefollowing:
Cyclosporine
Digoxin
Tetracycline
Anticoagulants
Warfarin(Coumadin)
Plavix(Clopidogrel)
Aspirin
Somechemotherapydrugs
SomedrugstotreatHIV
Amitriptyline(Elavil)
Cimetidine(Tagamet)
Cisapride(Propulsid)
Clarithromycin(Biaxin)
Diltiazem(Cardizem)
Donepezil(Aricept)
Erythromycin
Fexofenadine(Allegra)
Fluoxetine(Prozac)
Indinavir(Crixivan)
Loperamide(Imodium)
Lovastatin(Mevacor)
Metoprolol(Lopressor,ToprolXL)
Olanzapine(Zyprexa)
Ranitidine(Zantac)
Sildenafil(Viagra)
Tramadol(Ultram)
Trazodone(Desyrel)
Triazolam(Halcion)
5.Whatarebestherbalantiviralstotreatherpesvirus?
Therearemanyherbalantiviralsthatworktofighttheherpessimplexvirus,butthesearesuggestedtobethebest:
Zinc
LemonBalm
AstragalusRoot
6.Arethereherbalremediestogetridofwarts?
WartsarecausedbytheHumanPapillomaVirus.
Thefollowingherbalremediesareconsideredtobethebestforwarttreatments:
AppleCiderVinegar
Milkweed
Banana
VitaminC
Basil
Honey
Potato
Pineapple
7.Whatisthebestwaytogetridofcoldnaturally?
Thefollowingtipsshouldhelpyougetridofacoldnaturally:
Blowyournoseoften–andintherightway
Stayrested
Gargle
Drinkhotliquids
Takeasteamyshower
Applyhotandcoldpatchestotheinfectedsinusareas
Sleepwithanextrapillowunderyourhead
Don’tflyunlessnecessary
There are alsomanyherbal antivirals that can helpwith the symptoms and tofightoffthevirus.TheTopAntiviralHerbschapterdiscussesmanyoftheseindetail.
8.Whatistherecommendeddosageforgarlicsupplements?
Thestandarddosageis600mgthreetimesaday,butthisisdependentonyourcondition andothermedication.Always consult your doctorwhen it comes todosagewithherbalremedies.
9.Whatarethebesthomeremediestodetoxthebody?
Thefollowinglistisamongstthemostsuccessfulhomedetoxremedies:
GreenSmoothies
RawJuices
LemonJuice
GreenTea
LiquoriceRoot
Turmeric
10.Isitokaytotakeherbalsupplementsalongwithantibiotics?
Many herbal supplements actually support the work of antibiotics, but it isalways best to consult your doctor before combining supplements withtraditionalmedication.
11.Whatarethemosteffectiveplant-basedherbalantivirals?
There aremany brilliantly effective plant-based herbal antivirals. The Top 45Antiviral Herbs chapter of this book examines many of them in detail.Accordingtosomesources,thesearesuggestedtobethebest:
OilofOregano
Garlic
Goldenseal
St.John’sWort
12.Howdoherbalremediesfightagainstviruses?
Mostherbalantiviralsprevent thecellsaffectedby thevirus fromreproducingandspreadingtheinfectionfurther.Theyworkmoresuccessfullythantraditionalantiviralsbecause theydon’tharmandkill off the infectedcells. Instead, theytreatthem.
13.Whatarethebestherbalantiviralstotreatbronchitis?
Bronchitis is defined as a respiratory disease which causes inflammation andswellingofthemucousmembranesinthebronchialpassagesofthelungs.It issuggestedthatthefollowingherbalremediesarethemostsuccessful:
Honey
Oregano
SaltWater
Ginger
OrangeJuice
Turmeric
Garlic
Eucalyptus
Onion
CONCLUSION
So as you can see from this book, herbal antivirals are a great alternative toconventional medicine when it comes to helping your body fight off viralinfections. They have fewer side effects; they have a much more widespreadavailabilityandtheycontinuallybuildupyourimmunesystem.Theseantiviralsworkbyprotecting thehealthy cells from thevirus, stopping it fromaffectingyour body further. The difference from traditional antivirals is that they don’tdamagetheinfectedcells.
Therearemanywaysthatyoucanconsumethesenaturalantivirals.Ofcourse,thereare the tablets,medicinesandoils,but therearealsoa lotof food,herbsandspiceswhichcanbeincorporatedintoyoureverydaydiettoensurethatyouare always protected. After all, there can’t be any downsides tomaking yourbodyhealthierandmoreabletofightanythingthatthreatensit!Ofcourse,youwill need to consult your doctor to confirm that any of the herbal and naturalremediesaresuitableforyou,butonceyouhavemadethelifestylechange,youwon’twanttogoback.
Watchvideo-AntiviralHerbstheNaturalWay
ABOUTTHEAUTHOR
Mary Jones became interested in herbal remedies early on in her life. Afterbecomingfrustratedwith the ineffectivenessandsometimesseveresideeffectsofsyntheticremedies,shestartedresearchingwhetherornotnaturalcurescouldbemadetothesameeffect,withouttheuseofsyntheticmeans.Afterdedicatingyearsofherlifetoresearch,learningfromnaturalremediesmasters,aswellasfromdoctorsthatusenaturalcurestohelptheirpatients,shedecideditwastimetosharetheknowledgeshehadgatheredwiththeworld.
OneofMary’s lifegoals is tomake theworldabetter,happierplace, andherwritings are definitely a testament to that. She has not just kept all of herresearchanddiscoveries toherself.Shehas elected to share them, in a formatthatmakes them available to just about everyone. And instead of just talkingaboutjusttheunknownordifficulttofindherbsasmanynaturalistsdo,shehasselected remedies that anyone can make, so that every person can makethemselves healthier, easily and inexpensively.Mary’s books aren’t just abouttheory, they are about practice; actually fighting infections and ailmentsnaturally!