Learning how to use oil of oregano properly can help achieve the best benefits the herbal supplement has to offer. The first step is to determine whether the supplement is right for your specific needs. Consider some of the ways that oil of oregano is used by many people for optimal health.

Candida

Oregano oil for Candida can help remove yeast build up in the body. This is one of the most popular uses for the herbal remedy. The secret to the success of this supplement in the treatment of Candida is its antifungal properties.

The antifungal agents are called phenols. Carvacol is the strongest agent in oregano oil. Thymol is another phenol found in the supplement. This phenol is effective in building the immune system. The combination offers relief by killing the yeast in the body.

Other Uses for Oil of Oregano

Some herbalists assert that the oregano is effective in treating the following conditions:

?€? E. coli poisoning
?€? Diarrhea
?€? Nervousness
?€? Insect bites
?€? Earaches
?€? Toothaches
?€? Coughs
?€? Bronchitis
?€? Indigestion
?€? Rheumatism

There is no scientific evidence backing these claims. However, recent studies about treating the staph infection MRSA point toward essential oils as a possible treatment. Many believe oregano oil is one of the essential oils that was found to be effective in one of the studies.

How to Use Oil of Oregano

The first step in using oregano oil is to talk to your physician. This is especially important if you intend to use the essential oil to treat a medical condition. Thymol is particularly problematic because it can have serious side effects if taken in large doses. Once you have your physician’s permission, you need to find the right product.

The problem with herbal supplements like oregano oil is that many products fail to use pure ingredients. Many supplements contain a mixture of oil of oregano mixed with diluting oils like flaxseed or olive oil. Another consideration to make is how the oil of oregano is processed.

Once you have found a high quality supplement that is processed naturally and is pure, you have the task of taking a dose. This is not as easy as it seems. Some supplements suggest putting a few drops under your tongue and this is advisable. However, if some of the oil touches delicate skin in your mouth, it can be extremely uncomfortable.

Many complain of burning sensation after taking the oil directly, and it can cause tingling and numbness, much as you would expect after eating an extremely spicy jalapeno pepper. This problem can be addressed in a number of ways.

?€? Mix oil of oregano with a diluting oil to minimize the sting
?€? Eat cheese or drink milk immediately after taking a dose
?€? Take the supplement in capsules

Learning how to use oil of oregano may take some practice, but the supplement can yield excellent results for some people. Your doctor can help you decide if this supplement is right for your specific needs.

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Kava extract may be an effective treatment for anxiety according to Australian researchers. The Fox News story Kava Extract May Safely Treat Anxiety explores kava and its uses as a treatment for anxiety problems. The report includes background information about the herbal remedy for stress as well as some cautionary notes.

What is Kava?

Kava is found in South Pacific islands. The herb is in the pepper family and it has been used as an ingredient in a traditional beverage of the islands. The roots of the plant are the main ingredient in the beverage but extracts from the plant are the focus for kava as a treatment for anxiety.

Extracts from the kava plant have been used to help people by relaxing muscles and as a sleep-promoting agent. The extracts are also believed to help ease away stress.

Research Study

The Australian research study is relatively small but its results are promising. The study focuses on a kava extract that is water-soluble, known as an aqueous extract. This is a very safe form of kava that is believed to have little side effects.

Research from the university study found that the symptoms of anxiety were lessened in participants. Some experienced alleviated symptoms of depression as well. The way the kava extract is processed is a very important aspect of the study, since liver damage concerns are eminent in the use of kava.

Kava and Liver Problems

Kava supplements have been associated with liver problems. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns consumers about potential health problems that may develop when taking the kava extract. However, there may be some other components contributing to the liver damage reported after using kava supplements.

The way that the kava is processed may be the fundamental problem leading to liver damage. If the plant is prepared using traditional methods, potentially damaging elements including alcohol are not present. No absolute conclusion about the safety of kava in regards to the liver has been established.

The Australian study does note that the traditionally made kava extract that is water soluble showed no side effects in patients. No liver damage or problems were reported.

Future of Kava

The future of kava extract for anxiety is promising, especially since researchers are leaning toward the idea that the traditional methods used to create the extract in its water-soluble form appear to be safe. The future of kava involves going back to the traditional ways of processing the herbal remedy.

People may expect to find water-soluble forms of kava available on the market. This form of kava extract has little or no side effects and it is not thought to cause liver damage. For now, the supplements sold today are likely to be processed using potentially damaging substances.

Those who decide that a kava supplement in the non-water soluble form is right for them should take precautions. The first step is to talk to a physician and have liver function tested prior to use.

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Uses for the Chinese herb astragalus have been in practice for many centuries. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers many uses for the plant, as an integral part of the system of alternative medicine. The plant is native to China, but it has been popular as a supplement in the United States since the 1980s.

Types of Astragalus

There are many types of astragalus, with over 2,000 species of the plant. Of the 2,000 species, only two are used for medicinal purposes.

?€? Astragalus membranaceus
?€? Astragalus mongholicus

These two types of astragalus may go under a number of different names including:

?€? Bei qi
?€? Huang qi
?€? Ogi
?€? Milk vetch
?€? Hwanggi
?€? Astragalus

Uses for Astragalus

The Chinese herb is an important part of Chinese medicine, as it is used as an ingredient combined with other herbs. Other herbs commonly combined with astragalus include angelica, licorice, and ginseng, among others.

The primary use of the herb is to improve immune system function, but it has been used to treat medical problems as well, primarily chronic hepatitis and heart disease. In some cases, the herbal remedy is used to augment cancer treatments.

The root of the plant is the main source for medicinal uses, with this part of the plant administered in the following ways:

?€? Tea
?€? Extracts
?€? Capsules
?€? Soup

Scientific Backing

Little research is available about the effectiveness of the Chinese herb, but this does not mean that it is not effective. Preliminary studies suggest that the herb can be effective in improving heart functioning and it can be a natural immune system booster, especially when it comes to fighting infection.

When combined with glossy privet, the herb can be used as a complementary approach to treating cancer. Studies are still ongoing for this herb as an effective immune system booster. While studies are being conducted, many believe the ancient Chinese herbal remedy is very effective.

Locoweed

Locoweed is a form of astragalus that does not fall into the two main categories of the medicinal form of the herb. This component has strong side effects and it is not designed for medicinal purposes or for alternative medicine.

Side Effects

Some side effects can arise with use of astragalus. However, little is really known about the side effects. The problem stems from the simple fact that the herb is used in combination with other herbs, so some side effects may occur because of the other herbs, and not astragalus.

The herb is known to interfere with certain medications. Any medication taken by organ transplant recipients or any drugs designed to keep the immune system under control may become weakened with use of astragalus.

Always discuss using any herbal remedy with your physician, especially if you are in treatment for any illness, or if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant.

See more here: Uses for the Chinese Herb Astragalus

What herbs can help bipolar disorder? The question is difficult to answer because treatment for the condition exists on a number of different levels. No herbal remedy for bipolar disorder can replace a proper treatment plan that may include counseling and mood stabilizing medication.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Recognizing the symptoms of bipolar disorder is an important factor as well. Self-diagnosis is not adequate for the proper treatment of this disorder. Manic depression may manifest in a number of ways, but people who suffer from the condition basically have bouts of depression followed by bouts of mania, or “highs”.

The manic episodes can be difficult to detect because they are usually pleasurable. People often tend to ignore symptoms like elation and elevated energy levels. However, manic episodes can spin out of control leading to anxiousness, irritability and reckless behavior.

In some cases, a person may seek help for depression without recognizing that manic episodes are present. This is especially important for individuals who have hypomania, in which manic episodes are relatively mild.

After a proper diagnosis is made, following through with the treatment plan is an essential component to overcoming the mood disorder. In some cases, herbal remedies for bipolar disorder can complement a patient’s therapy.

Bipolar Disorder Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies for manic depression include “nerviness”, plant substances that are extracted from plants. Herbs for bipolar disorder include:

1. Gingko biloba is an effective herb that is believed to improve memory by improving blood flow to the brain. The blood flow can improve brain function and mood as well.
2. Black cohosh is a natural sedative hat can help to alleviate manic symptoms.
3. Damiana is a natural energizing element than can improve mood during bouts of depression.
4. Licorice is effective in boosting hormone production that may be lacking in cases of bipolar disorder, creating balance.
5. St. John’s wort is a very popular choice because it has some clinical backing. This is among the strongest herbal supplements, and it should be treated like a prescription medication, especially considering its effect on serotonin levels. This herbal remedy for manic depression can interfere with prescription medications.
6. Ginseng can help increase energy levels for people during bouts of depression, especially if excessive fatigue is present.
7. Sarsaparilla offers a calming effect to the nervous system as well as the digestive system.
8. Gotu kola may be effective in treating anxiety and depression.
9. Pycogenol and grape seed oil have antioxidant properties that can help promote brain functioning and can help elevate mood.

One note about natural herbs to keep in mind is that “natural” does not always translate into “safe”. Many naturally occurring substances can be very dangerous if they are mishandled or misused. A physician should first approve any herbal supplement for manic depression you choose.

See the article here: What Herbs Can Help Bipolar Disorder

Knowing how to use English lavender helps to make the most of this naturally soothing herbal remedy. There is little wonder that there is a recent booming English lavender industry because this natural herb has many great uses. Following are ways to use lavender at home.

Garden Glory

One of the greatest uses for lavender is creating a lovely addition to a garden. The color of the plant is so unusual that it has its own designation, making lavender hues distinct from blue and purple. The aromatic nature of the plant makes it ideal for creating texture and balance in nearly any garden. In addition, it naturally attracts butterflies and bumblebees, brining life to the area.

Home Decoration

Once the lavender has reached its full bloom, it is ready for picking. The colorful stalks of tiny flowers blend beautifully into the stems. Allowing a bunch of the lavender to dry is a great way to prepare the blooms for other uses.

Mood Enhancer

The flowering plant is a natural mood enhancer that can elevate mood with a few small sniffs. Simply rub the flowers between fingertips in order to allow the aroma to rise. The treatment is excellent before engaging in stressful activities. It also helps to ease some mild symptoms of depression, making it a great augmentation to treatments for depression.

Induce Sleep

Lavender is naturally relaxing and people who have problems sleeping can benefit from using a sachet filled with dried lavender placed in their pillowcases. Some like to use lavender oil drops in their pillows as well.

Laundry

A sachet made of cheesecloth and dried lavender can be used in clothes dryer to freshen loads of laundry. Many add a little essential oil to add to the fragrance. One sachet can freshen more than 20 loads of laundry.

Dandruff

The flower has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for a number of home remedies. Infuse some of the flowers in hot water and allow the mixture to cool. Use the mixture as a rinse to wash dandruff away.

Bug Bites and Stings

Lavender can help alleviate the discomfort associated with stings and bites from insects. Ideally, it is best to use the essential oil rather than the flowers as a topical antiseptic. The oil works well on minor abrasions as well.

Sunburn

The essential oil mixed with water can take the sting out of sunburn, too. The best approach is to put a few drops in cool water and place in a spray bottle. Mist the lavender water over the affected area for immediate relief.

Bath and Body

The naturally lovely fragrance of the flowers and essential oil makes them ideal for bath and body. Create a home spa by adding a handful of flowers in a bath, or add essential oils to the bathwater. The essential oil can be used like a concentrated perfume. Simply dab on pulse points as you would any strong perfume.

With its many uses, English lavender is certain to make a wonderful addition, whether in a garden, bath, or home.

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What herbs can be used for pain management? According to Pain Management and Migraine Relief the natural remedies can work, but it is critical to use great caution with this approach. While the topic of the article is migraines, other forms of pain can be treated with herbs, especially when inflammation is the cause of the discomfort.

Inflammation and Pain

Pain relieving herbs can be very effective in treating discomfort that stems from inflammation. Chronic inflammation is the core of the pain associated with a number of conditions. The good news is that the discomfort can be alleviated using natural methods including:

?€? Dietary interventions
?€? Avoiding toxins
?€? Stop smoking
?€? Increase exercise
?€? Reduce stress

Herbal supplements can also play a natural role in pain management as long as the strategy is used in conjunction with treatments specified by a physician. In addition, each supplement should be approved by a doctor, including its dosage.

Inflammation-Related Conditions

Conditions that have pain associated with inflammation include:

?€? Arthritis
?€? Tendonitis
?€? Neck pain
?€? Back pain
?€? Osteoarthritis
?€? Inflammatory bowel disease
?€? TMJ
?€? Traumatic injury
?€? Tendonitis
?€? Autoimmune disorders

Herbs for Pain Relief

Seven excellent choices in herbal remedies for pain relief top the list. Each has anti-inflammatory characteristics that can alleviate pain.

?€? Boswellia is a natural inflammatory that comes from a resin collected from frankincense tree bark.
?€? Bromelain is a digestive enzyme that is found in the stems of pineapples. The enzyme is effective in reducing inflammation-causing hormones known as prostaglandins. The enzyme can help to heal connective tissues and muscles.
?€? Curcumin is a naturally occurring element found in turmeric. This anti-inflammatory can reduce levels of cytokines, inflammatory proteins.
?€? Devil’s Claw has an ominous name but it can alleviate pain. The plant is native to the southern region of Africa. It contains iridoid glycosides that are believed to help reduce pain associated with digestive problems and arthritis.
?€? Ginger is a very popular herb, well known for its pungent aroma and distinctive taste. This anti-inflammatory is as effective, if not more effective, in treating pain than many manufactured pain relievers.
?€? White Willow Bark contains elements that are similar to aspirin. This natural painkiller has proved to be effective in treating joint and hip pain.
?€? Yucca was used by Native Americans for a number of conditions. The plant contains saponins that are anti-inflammatory in nature.

Complementary Medicine

The herbs used for pain management are effective as complements to a medical treatment plan provided by a physician. It is critical to make sure that these components are not used exclusively. They are not cures for any medical condition and they can interfere with many medications. Always talk to your doctor when considering augmenting your pain management treatments with herbal remedies.

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If you have ever read the Bible or even studied ancient history, you will likely have seen references to a variety of herbs and plants used for medicinal purposes as well hygiene and beauty. People thousands of years ago depended on them for treating a variety of ailments and also used them in rituals. As new lands were discovered, these herbs and their seeds traveled with the people, eventually taking root in a variety of cultures.

Frankincense and Myrrh

Two of the three gifts presented to baby Jesus at birth, frankincense and myrrh are two of the oldest herbs noted in recorded history. Frankincense was used for a variety of ailments from eradicating poisons in the body to treating tumors, boils, dysentery and fevers. Today, this ancient herb is used for aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and stress and even high quality perfumes.

Myrrh was used in healing rituals in early history as well as many health remedies. Wounds, hemorrhoids, dry skin, menstruation pain and respiratory ailments were treated with myrrh. In addition, ancient Egyptians used this herb for perfume, anointing and even embalming. Today, myrrh is used for aromatherapy as well as health remedies for gingivitis, mouth sores and even stomach ailments.

Flax

This herb was often transformed into linen using a delicate process that is difficult to replicate, even by today’s standards. The flax linen was used for burial shrouds as well as fine clothing. The seeds from flax were pressed to create oil used for a variety of things such as embalming in addition to the treatment of burn wounds, laxatives, and the alleviation of dry coughs.

Today, flaxseed is known for its healthy dietary properties, namely ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and polyphenolics. Gastritis, colitis and inflammation benefit from the ALA properties of flaxseed. In addition, the ALA slows and sometimes prevents tumor growth. The polyphenolic components help prevent colon and breast cancer.

Turmeric

Ancient Sanskrit documents describe the use of turmeric for a number of applications such as using the root of this plant for natural dyes, beauty treatments of the skin and even digestion problems. Today, turmeric is widely used in ethnic Indian cooking but it is regaining popularity as a health treatment, a practice used since ancient times in Ayurveda methods. Presently, you can purchase turmeric root, powder or even supplements to treat many ailments from inflammation to lymphoma to gastritis. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties ease the ache of laryngitis, flatulence, arthritis, bronchial problems, and even eczema.

Garlic

In the bible, garlic was mentioned as a great way for men to increase their virility so they could boost their chances of attracting their wives and producing children. And for thousands of years, garlic was prescribed for a number of things such as snakebites, depression, respiratory ailments, headaches and infection. Today, garlic is a wonder herb, often consuming in foods as well as supplements. The bulb of this herbal plant has the power to boost your immune system against bacterial and viral infections. It can help lower your blood cholesterol and blood pressure in addition to lowering your cancer risk.

There are a number of other herbs that existed back in ancient times. Aloe, milk thistle and anise are just a few of many that are being used, even today. Traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurveda being practiced today still employ many of these ancient herbs in its medicinal treatments. In a time when there are superbugs that resist common antibiotics and antiviral treatments, these herbs can make a difference.

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Elderberries have been used in a variety of ways for a few millennia from a basic food source to cloth dyes and medicine. These small, dark colored berries grow in clusters on elderberry bushes. These bushes are quite hardy and a several types can be found growing all around the world in a number of climates. They grow fast with aromatic flowers in the spring time followed by berries in the late summer.

The two main varieties of elderberry bushes include the European Elder and the American Elder. The European Elder produces dark blue to black berries while the American Elder grows similar colors, only they taste slighter sweeter. There is a species of elderberry tree that produces red berries but these should not be consumed as they may be harmful when ingested.

Eating Elderberries

Elderberries can be eaten raw but are best when cooked into recipes such as jams, muffins, cakes and even wine. Even the white flowers of the elderberry bush can be consumed. The berries have tiny seeds that do not break down during the cooking process but they are not noticeable. If you plan to eat the berries raw, make sure they are fully ripe as under ripe berries can make you ill.

There is evidence that people in ancient civilizations consumed elderberries for its healing properties in addition to using them as a food source. Even the Native Americans used the flowers and berries for health to alleviate a host of ailments such as fever, aches, pains, colds, skin rashes and more.

Healing with Elderberries

You have probably heard that consuming berries, particularly the dark colored ones can help boost your immunity because they contain powerful antioxidants that help fight free radicals that prematurely age your body or cause disease. The same principle applies with the dark colored elderberries. They contain the same source of anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant.

Elderberry is primarily used to combat flu and colds because of their antioxidant properties as well as their high amounts of potassium and vitamin C. These berries also have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties which greatly help in the fight against colds and flu. Together with the potassium and vitamin C, they help shorten the duration of colds and flu and may even help prevent them too.

The white flowers of the elderberry bush are also healthy. They contain flavonoids and a compound called rutin that, when combined with the vitamin C of the berries, pack quite the powerful immune boosting punch.

If you contract a cold, you will want to purchase elderberry syrup which will soothe your throat due to excessive coughing. You can also purchase elderberry extract and add some to your drinks to build your immunity or shorten the duration of the flu. Even the United States Drug Administration agrees that elderberry can be quite beneficial to your recovery from a number of different viral ailments. In controlled lab studies, people who took elderberry recovered twice as fast from the cold or flu than people who took a placebo.

To garner the most benefits from elderberries, purchase the syrup from a health food store for colds and coughs or the extract to add to drinks for the flu and immune system boosting. Consuming recipes containing the cooked berries may offer a few benefits but the syrup and extract are the best options.

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The use of herbs has been widespread throughout history to keep the body healthy and maintain our bodily functions.

Herbs are Used for a Variety of Reasons

Herbs have many uses.  They are used to treat or prevent multiple physical and mental health issues.   They are used for the benefits they offer in management and treatment of physical symptoms or ailments such as pain and inflammation, infections, constipation, blood chemistry values and many more.  People who have problems with depression, dementia, memory and anxiety seek the mental benefits of herbal treatments.

10 Common Liquid Herbs that May Benefit You

1. St. John?€™s Wort Herb Extract is probably the most well known liquid herbal supplement.  It has effects such as enhancement of mood and reducing symptoms of depression.
2. Echinacea Herb is beneficial for fighting colds and other respiratory problems.
3. Chamomile is available in several liquid forms. It is used in teas and has a relaxing and soothing effect and can sooth the digestive system. Chamomile can also be found in many soaps, shampoos and lotions for the benefit of the skin and the relaxing and calming effects of the fragrance.
4. Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract is known to improve memory and help maintain mental health.  This herb is said to reduce dementia symptoms and is a natural pain reliever. It is also used in the treatment of Vertigo and tinnitus.
5. Aloe Vera Extract has anti inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is used commonly on burns and to treat disorders of the digestive tract and as a general health tonic.
6. Green Tea Leaf Extract commonly used in teas and soft drinks is effective for lowering cholesterol.
7. Milk Thistle Seed Extract is commonly used to help repair damage to the liver and treat cirrhosis.
8. Grape Seed Extract is known to improve blood flow and aid in circulatory problems. It is also beneficial in the treatment of the flu and cold symptoms.
9. Valerian Root is commonly used to treat anxiety and restlessness. It is used by many people who have trouble falling asleep.
10. Cascara Sagrada is a liquid herb used by many people and prescribed by doctors to treat constipation.

The Benefit of Using Common Liquid Herbs vs. Tablet or Capsule Forms

Herbs come in different forms, tablets, capsules and liquid.  There is a benefit to the use of liquid herbs because they are absorbed more quickly and easily than other forms of herbs.

Tablets or capsule forms of herbs have to go through the digestive system to reach the small intestine where they begin to be absorbed.  In this process many of the beneficial properties are lost.  By using the common liquid herbs which do not require being processed through the digestive system and are absorbed immediately and distributed throughout the body in the bloodstream, you will receive the full, desired effect.

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You don?€™t have to visit the Amazon to acquire amazing Amazon herbs. These herbs can be used for a wide range of health problems and even for the prevention of many illnesses as well. People have been using herbs from the Amazon, safely, for thousands of years, but some of the plants in this area can be deadly if they are not taken in the proper amounts, or if the wrong parts of the plants are used.

Amazing Amazon Herbs ?€“ The Cocoa Tree

The cocoa tree is truly amazing. All parts of the tree can be used for medicinal purposes, and the uses and results are so astounding that the tree has been exported to other countries as well, such as Europe. It is used to treat coughs, fatigue, anxiety, fever, kidney stones, burns, cuts, and a variety of other ailments. Research has also found that the cocoa tree contains properties that can actually help to prevent heart disease.

Amazing Amazon Herbs ?€“ The Trumpet Tree

As with the Cocoa Tree, every part of the Trumpet Tree can be used for medicinal purposes. The Trumpet Tree is famous for the treatment of respiratory problems, and has also shown promise in the area of treating arthritis and rheumatism. Today, the Trumpet Tree is widely used in South America and Central America.

Amazing Amazon Herbs ?€“ The Lipstick Tree

The Lipstick Tree, also known as the Annatto Tree can be used to repel insects. In terms of medicinal use, however, it is most effective for lowering blood pressure. The Lipstick Tree gets its nickname from the fact that it has been used by many cultures in love potions. Parts of this tree can also be used in the treatment of snake bites, and it can help to protect humans from UV rays as well. Some cultures use it for the treatment of heartburn.

Three additional Amazing Amazon Herbs that you should know about are the Clavillia, the Suma, and the Curare. Clavillia can be used to fight bacteria, fungus, viruses, and even parasites. Curare is actually poisonous, but can be used externally for fever, kidney stones, and bruises. In some cultures, it is used as anesthesia.

Suma is often used to increase the appetite, to improve circulation, to treat diabetes, and to improve memory. It has also been successfully used to boost the immune system and to improve the function of the muscles.

These Amazing Amazon Herbs are available in a variety of products, and when you shop for natural products for the treatment of various illnesses and conditions, you should definitely be looking for these ingredients. Make sure that you follow the directions for use correctly so that you do not overdose on these beneficial herbs.

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