Clearing Health Dictionary

Clearing: From 1 Different Sources


n. (in microscopy) the process of removing the cloudiness from microscopical specimens after *dehydration by means of a clearing agent. This increases the transparency of the specimens. Xylene, cedar oil, methyl benzoate plus benzol, and methyl salicylate plus benzol are commonly used as clearing agents.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Batoko Plum

Flacourtia inermis

Description: This shrub or small tree has dark green, alternate, simple leaves. Its fruits are bright red and contain six or more seeds.

Habitat and Distribution: This plant is a native of the Philippines but is widely cultivated for its fruit in other areas. It can be found in clearings and at the edges of the tropical rain forests of Africa and Asia.

Edible Parts: Eat the fruit raw or cooked.... batoko plum

Bentlee

(English) Feminine form of Bentley; from the clearing Bentleigh, Bently, Bentli, Bentlie, Bentley, Bentlea, Bentleah... bentlee

Burdock Tea: A Health Remedy

Nowadays, burdock tea is largely consumed all over the world. It is successfully used to improve appetite and digestion, but not only. Burdock Tea description Burdock is a plant from the same family as the sunflower, which can grow up to five feet high. In the summer, the seeds are cropped and the roots are dug up. In traditional Chinese medicine, but not only, it is combined with other herbs to treat upper-respiratory tract infections. Burdock root is known to be a blood purifier, clearing several problems from the body’s systems. Burdock can be taken as infusion, decoction, extract, tincture and ointment. Burdock tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Burdock Tea brewing To prepare Burdock tea:
  • Pour boiling water over the desired amount of herbs.
  • Cover and let them steep 10 to 20 minutes.
  • Strain off the herbs using a tea strainer or coffee filter.
It is essential to use good quality water and it is recommended to drink it slowly. Burdock Tea benefits Burdock tea has been successfully used to:
  • soothe the skin and gastrointestinal tract
  • improve appetite and digestion
  • reduce liver damage
  • mildly lower blood sugar (hypoglycemic effect)
  • purify the blood
  • fight the effects of rheumatism
  • treat some kidney disorders
  • counter bronchial cough and other irritations of the pulmonary tract
Burdock Tea side effects Burdock tea is not advised to be consumed by pregnant or nursing women. Burdock tea is a medicinal remedy for a large array of diseases. Studies have revealed its efficiency in dealing with liver and kidney ailments, as well as its soothing effects for the skin.... burdock tea: a health remedy

Chirley

(American) Form of Shirley, meaning “from the bright clearing” Chirly, Chirli, Chirlie, Chirleigh, Chirlee, Chirlea, Chirleah... chirley

Farley

(English) From the fern clearing Farly, Farli, Farlie, Farlee, Farleigh, Farlea, Farleah... farley

Fennel Tea

Most of the people have already used it for cooking, but now it is time to consider drinking fennel as a tea. In ancient times it was believed that this herb had mysterious vitalistic properties. About fennel tea Also known as Foeniculum vulgare, fennelis a perennial, edible herb, green and crunchy like celery, with feathery leaves and small yellow flowers. It ressembles to dill as well. Its bulb is white or pale green with closely superimposed stalks. Originated from the Mediterranean regions now it grows almost everywhere. It is rich in vitamins A, B-complex, C and D, antioxidants and it is a great source of amino acids, fatty acids, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, sodium, sulfur and zinc. Generally, the seeds are used to make fennel tea but some might use the leaves as well. How to make Fennel tea A cup of fennel tea will offer you a world of benefits due to its healthy constituents. For a tasty tea, take one teaspoon of fennel seeds and pour one cup of boiled water. Let the tea steep for about 10 minutes allowing the water to extract the oil from the seeds and then use another cup to drain the tea. Benefits of Fennel tea There is a wide range of health benefits for drinking fennel tea. Find out below some of the most important ones. Fennel tea stimulates milk production (lactation) and has the same impact on the body as estrogen. It also improves the hormone balance and alleviates symptoms of PMS and menopause. Fennel tea has been shown to be diuretic, bile-producing, pain-reducing, fever-reducing and an antimicrobial fighter. The seeds and the tea can help with digestive problems by relaxing the smooth muscles of the intestine and it is often used by people to alleviate bloating, constipation, heartburn, indigestion, and gas. Fennel tea is effective at reducing the symptoms of cold and flu, soothing sore throats, clearing up congestions in the chest and expelling excess phlegm. It is believed to improve the eyesight. Side effects of Fennel tea A part from the many benefits that it has, fennel tea also has some precautions that are better to be taken into consideration. The consumption of fennel in excessive quantities is not indicated because it can lead to muscular convulsions and even hallucinations. Pregnant women should avoid drinking fennel tea because it can act as an uterine stimulant. Do not apply fennel directly to your skin because it can irritate it. Fennel tea is mostly safe for regular consumption as long as you do not drink more than 3 cups a day. Do not ignore its precautions if you want to have a healthy experience.... fennel tea

Raleigh

(English) From the clearing of roe deer

Raileigh, Railey, Raley, Rawleigh, Rawley, Raly, Rali, Ralie, Ralee, Rawli, Rawlie, Rawlee, Rawly... raleigh

Riley

(Gaelic) From the rye clearing; a courageous woman

Reilley, Reilly, Rilee, Rileigh, Ryley, Rylee, Ryleigh, Rylie, Rilie, Rili, Reileigh, Rilea, Rylea, Ryson, Rysen, Ryesen, Ryelana... riley

Shirley

(English) From the bright clearing Shirly, Shirlie, Shirli, Shirleigh, Shirlee, Shirl, Shirlyn, Shirlea, Sherle, Sherley, Sherly, Sherli, Sherlie, Sherlee, Sherlea, Sherleigh... shirley

Yam

Dioscorea species

Description: These plants are vines that creep along the ground. They have alternate, heart-or arrow-shaped leaves. Their rootstock may be very large and weigh many kilograms.

Habitat and Distribution: True yams are restricted to tropical regions where they are an important food crop. Look for yams in fields, clearings, and abandoned gardens. They are found in rain forests, semievergreen seasonal forests, and scrub and thorn forests in the tropics. In warm temperate areas, they are found in seasonal hardwood or mixed hardwood-coniferous forests, as well as some mountainous areas.

Edible Parts: Boil the rootstock and eat it as a vegetable.... yam

Goa Bean

Psophocarpus tetragonolobus

Description: The goa bean is a climbing plant that may cover small shrubs and trees. Its bean pods are 22 centimeters long, its leaves 15 centimeters long, and its flowers are bright blue. The mature pods are 4-angled, with jagged wings on the pods.

Habitat and Distribution: This plant grows in tropical Africa, Asia, the East Indies, the Philippines, and Taiwan. This member of the bean (legume) family serves to illustrate a kind of edible bean common in the tropics of the Old World. Wild edible beans of this sort are most frequently found in clearings and around abandoned garden sites. They are more rare in forested areas.

Edible Parts: You can eat the young pods like string beans. The mature seeds are a valuable source of protein after parching or roasting them over hot coals. You can germinate the seeds (as you can many kinds of beans) in damp moss and eat the resultant sprouts. The thickened roots are edible raw. They are slightly sweet, with the firmness of an apple. You can also eat the young leaves as a vegetable, raw or steamed.... goa bean

Gracilaria Lichenoides

(Linn.) Hary.

Habitat: Native to South America, particularly its north-western parts. Also cultivated in India.

English: Egyptian Cotton, Sea- Island Cotton.

Ayurvedic: Kaarpaasa.

Siddha/Tamil: Semparutthi.

Folk: Kapaasa.

Action: Root—emmenagogue, oxytocic, abortifacient, parturient, lactagogue. Seed and leaf— antidysenteric. Seed—galacto- gogue, pectoral, febrifuge. Seed oil—used externally for clearing spots and freckles from the skin. Leaf—hypotensive, an- tirheumatic. Flower—used in hypochondriasis and bronchial inflammations.

The seed contains 26.2-27.9% protein; 1.22-2.42 free gossypol.... gracilaria lichenoides

Have A Cup Of Chrysanthemum Tea

The benefits of Chrysanthemum Tea were discovered centuries ago by Chinese and Oriental people who used it for medicinal purposes and as a natural coolant. About Chrysanthemum Tea Chrysanthemum Tea is a herbal tea made from Chrysanthemum flowers of the species Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum, which are most popular in Eastern Asia. The chrysanthemum is a leafy plant, adorned with clusters of daisy-like flowers. The plant can be found worldwide. The constituents of chrysanthemum are vitamin C, beta-cartone, calcium, fiber, folacin, iron, magnesium, niacin, potassium and riboflavin. Chrysanthemum tea has a delicate, slightly floral aroma and a light, refreshing taste. How to brew Chrysanthemum Tea To prepare a tasty cup of Chrysantemum tea, it is usually recommended to use around 3 or 5 dried flowers for every 250ml of water. Let the flowers steep in hot water at 90°c in a teapot until the liquid turns light yellow. You can add rock sugar as well, to enhance its flavor. Chrysanthemum tea is slightly yellow in color and has a floral aroma and taste. In Chinese tradition, once a pot of chrysanthemum tea has been drunk, hot water is typically added again over the flowers in the pot (producing a tea that is slightly less strong); this process is repeated several times. Chrysanthemum Tea Benefits Chrysanthemum tea is not very famous amongst herb enthusiasts, and  that is because very few people know about its existence and benefits. Chrysanthemum Tea may help lower blood pressure and consequently, may also help in the treatment of other related ailments like angina and other heart problems. It may also help relieve headaches. Chrysanthemum Tea may help in the treatment of colds, fever and the flu or tinnitus. This type of tea may help in the treatment of skin problems such as acne, boils and sores. Chrysanthemum Tea is believed to contribute in clearing the vision and improving the general eyesight. Chrysanthemum Tea has stimulating property and helps in alerting the senses and rejuvenating the brain. It stimulates all your senses very quickly and also calms down the nerves. Chrysanthemum Tea is drunk or used as a compress to treat circulatory disorders such as varicose veins and atherosclerosis. Chrysanthemum Tea Side Effects There are some side effects associated to the Chrysanthemum tea consumption. In some cases, it may cause contact dermatitis and photosensitivity. Do not associate this tea with other sedatives or high blood pressure medicine as it may intensify the effects of those drugs. Do not take this tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you take into consideration the precautions above and you do not drink too much of it, you can include Chrysanthemum tea in your healthy lifestyle and enjoy its taste and benefits.... have a cup of chrysanthemum tea

Asphyxia

The medical term for suffocation.

Asphyxia may be caused by the obstruction of a large airway, usually by a foreign body (see choking), by insufficient oxygen in the surrounding air (as occurs when a closed plastic bag is put over the head), or by poisoning with a gas such as carbon monoxide that interferes with the uptake of oxygen into the blood.

First-aid treatment is by artificial respiration after clearing the airway of obstruction.

Untreated asphyxia leads to death within a few minutes.... asphyxia

Gestational Diabetes

Diabetes that develops for the first time during pregnancy, usually clearing up after delivery.

(See diabetic pregnancy.)... gestational diabetes

Melanosis Coli

Black or brown discoloration of the colon lining, associated with chronic constipation and prolonged use of certain laxative drugs, such as senna, rhubarb, and cascara.

The discoloration is most common in elderly people and is usually symptomless, clearing up when the laxatives are stopped.

Rarely, it is associated with colon cancer (see colon, cancer of).... melanosis coli

Relaxation Techniques

Methods of consciously releasing muscular tension to achieve mental calm.

They can assist people with anxiety symptoms, help to reduce hypertension, and relieve stress, and may help pregnant women to cope with labour pains (see childbirth, natural).

Active relaxation consists of tensing and relaxing each of the muscles in turn.

Passive relaxation involves clearing the mind and concentrating on a phrase or sound.

Breathing exercises help to prevent hyperventilation, which often brings on or worsens anxiety.

Traditional concentration methods, such as yoga and meditation, employ similar techniques.... relaxation techniques

Limpieza

Cleaning, cleansing or clearing; this term has two uses: to describe (1.) the internal cleansing action of remedies inside the body; or (2.) an external spiritual/energetic cleansing ritual:

1. Herbal preparations taken internally are sometimes said to “cleanse the body [internally]” (limpiar el sistema), particularly the digestive tract, kidneys, liver and/or reproductive system; in this sense, it can be used to describe laxative or diuretic herbs, remedies that cleanse the blood or preparations that clear obstruction in the reproductive system.

2. a cleansing ritual is performed using herbs and/or other items to ritually clear or dispel unwanted energy around a person’s body or in a physical space (i.e. a room, house, office or car); this ritual often includes the use of incense, prayer and bundles of herbs that are swept or shaken over the body or in ones living space. Often, water-based preparations of herbs, fragrant aguas and/or perfume oils are used for washing ones living area, especially the floor; then a similar mixture of herbs is prepared as a bath for washing the physical body as part of this spiritual/energetic cleansing ritual.... limpieza

Papaya Or Pawpaw

Carica papaya

Description: The papaya is a small tree 1.8 to 6 meters tall, with a soft, hollow trunk. When cut, the entire plant exudes a milky juice. The trunk is rough and the leaves are crowded at the trunk’s apex. The fruit grows directly from the trunk, among and below the leaves. The fruit is green before ripening. When ripe, it turns yellow or remains greenish with a squashlike appearance.

Habitat and Distribution: Papaya is found in rain forests and semievergreen seasonal forests in tropical regions and in some temperate regions as well. Look for it in moist areas near clearings and former habitations. It is also found in open, sunny places in uninhabited jungle areas.

Edible Parts: The ripe fruit is high in vitamin C. Eat it raw or cock it like squash. Place green fruit in the sun to make it ripen quickly. Cook the young papaya leaves, flowers, and stems carefully, changing the water as for taro.

CAUTION

Be careful not to get the milky sap from the unripe fruit into your eyes. It will cause intense pain and temporary--sometimes even permanent--blindness.

Other Uses: Use the milky juice of the unripe fruit to tenderize tough meat. Rub the juice on the meat.... papaya or pawpaw

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is a fragrant herb that makes for a soothing drink. Peppermint helps you digest foods better and also reduces flatulence and digestive issues. Peppermint is prescribed to people with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and gallstones in capsules. A cup of peppermint tea will ease nausea and vomiting, especially if you suffer motion sickness. If you have heartburn, don’t drink peppermint tea as this might aggravate your condition. Peppermint tea brings down the severity of herpes outbreaks. The natural mint flavor of the herb helps to freshen your breath. Other health benefits of this tea are control of muscle aches and chronic pain, clearing of congestion and mild coughs, mild asthma and reduction of stress.... peppermint tea

Pokeweed

Phytolacca americana

Description: This plant may grow as high as 3 meters. Its leaves are elliptic and up to 1 meter in length. It produces many large clusters of purple fruits in late spring.

Habitat and Distribution: Look for this plant in open, sunny areas in forest clearings, in fields, and along roadsides in eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Edible Parts: The young leaves and stems are edible cooked. Boil them twice, discarding the water from the first boiling. The fruits are edible if cooked.

CAUTION

All parts of this plant are poisonous if eaten raw. Never eat the underground portions of the plant as these contain the highest concentrations of the poisons. Do not eat any plant over 25 centimeters tall or when red is showing in the plant.

Other Uses: Use the juice of fresh berries as a dye.... pokeweed

Sansevieria Roxburghiana

J. & J. Schultes

Synonym: S. zeylanica auct. non-(L.) Willd.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: The eastern coast of India from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu in South.

English: Indian Bowstring Hemp.

Ayurvedic: Naagadamani, Takshaki. Used in West Bengal as a substitute for Muurvaa.

Siddha: Marul, Motta Manji (Tamil).

Action: Rhizomes—mucilaginous, used for cough. Tender shoots— juice given to children for clearing phlegm from the throat. Whole plant—finds application in glandular enlargement and rheumatism.

Care must be taken that the herb does not accumulate in the system.

The plant must not be confused with Indian Hemp (Cannabis indica).... sansevieria roxburghiana

Roseola Infantum

A common infectious disease, probably viral, that mainly affects children aged 6 months to 2 years.

There is an abrupt onset of irritability and fever.

The temperature drops to normal after 4 or 5 days.

About the same time, a rash appears on the trunk, often spreading to the neck, face, and limbs, before clearing up within 1–2 days.

Other symptoms may include a sore throat and enlargement of lymph nodes in the neck.

Convulsions (see convulsion, febrile) may occur during the fever, but there are no serious effects.

The only treatment is to keep the child cool and give paracetamol.... roseola infantum

Blennorrhagia

n. a copious discharge of mucus, particularly from the urethra. This usually accompanies *urethritis and sometimes occurs with acute *prostatitis. Treatment is directed to clearing the underlying causative organism by antibiotic administration.... blennorrhagia

Complement

n. a system of functionally linked proteins that interact with one another to aid the body’s defences when *antibodies combine with *antigens. Complement is involved in the breaking-up (*lysis) and *opsonization of foreign organisms. It is also involved in inflammation and clearing immune (antigen-antibody) complexes.... complement

Trigonitis

n. inflammation of the trigone (base) of the urinary bladder. This can occur as part of a generalized *cystitis or it can be associated with inflammation in the urethra, prostate, or cervix (neck) of the uterus. The patient experiences an intense desire to pass urine frequently; treatment includes the clearing of any underlying infection by antibiotic administration.... trigonitis

Strychnos Potatorum

Linn.f.

Family: Loganiaceae; Strychnaceae.

Habitat: Forests of West Bengal, Central and South India, up to 1,200 m.

English: Clearing Nut tree.

Ayurvedic: Kataka, Katakaphala, Payah-prasaadi, Chakshushya, Nirmali.

Unani: Nirmali.

Siddha/Tamil: Thettran, Thetrankot- tai.

Action: Seed—antidiabetic, antidysenteric, emetic.

Mannogalactan from seeds reduces cholesterol and triglycerides (one-tenth and one-fifth when compared to clofi- brate). Seeds are also applied to abscesses, and venereal sores (internally in gonorrhoea). Fruits—antidiabet- ic; antidysenteric, expectorant. (Pulp is used as a substitute for ipecacuanha.)

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the seed in dysuria, polyuria, urolithiasis, also in epilepsy.

The seeds, leaves and trunk bark gave diabolin (major alkaloid) and acetyldiabolin. Seeds also gavebrucine, strychnine, novacine, icajine, oleanolic acid and its glycoside. Leaves and bark gave isomotiol, stigmasterol, campes- terol and sitosterol. Diabolin exhibits hypotensive activity.

A decoction of seeds is given to treat stammering.

The seeds resemble those of Nux- vomica but are non-poisonous. The ripe seeds are used for clearing muddy water.

Dosage: Seed—3-6 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... strychnos potatorum

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (sle)

A serious and potentially fatal autoimmune disease occurring predominantly in women (see also LUPUS – Lupus erythematosus). The disorder is found worldwide, although its incidence is higher in some ethnic groups such as Afro-Caribbeans and Chinese. The body’s immune system attacks CONNECTIVE TISSUE, causing severe in?ammation. As connective tissue is widely distributed, the skin and many organs are affected. Recent research suggests that the autoimmune response is triggered by a failure in the body’s mechanism for clearing up the debris of dead cells. The affected person lacks an ENZYME called D Nase 1 which degrades DNA. This discovery should enable people who are at high risk of developing SLE to be detected and treated early with D Nase 1. Sunlight, viral infections and certain drugs can induce some of the symptoms, especially in older people. Symptoms of SLE – and also of discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) – come and go with varying levels of severity. SLE produces characteristic red, blotchy rash over the cheeks and bridge of the nose. Patients feel ill, are fatigued and feverish with appetite loss, nausea, joint pain and loss of weight. Some develop ARTHRITIS, ANAEMIA, kidney failure, neurological or psychiatric problems, PLEURISY and PERICARDITIS.

Treatment D Nase 1 o?ers promising possibilities for treating SLE. Recognised treatment has been aimed at reducing in?ammation and alleviating symptoms. NONSTEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) help to reduce joint pains; antimalarial drugs reduce the skin rash; and CORTICOSTEROIDS combat fever, pleurisy and neurological symptoms. If patients develop serious kidney or neurological damage, CYTOTOXIC immunosuppressant drugs should be given, The disease is life-threatening if the kidneys are seriously affected; otherwise the prospect for people with SLE has improved greatly in recent years.... systemic lupus erythematosus (sle)

White Sage Tea Benefits

White Sage Tea has been known for centuries as a great remedy for fever or to induce perspiration. White Sage is originally from Northern America. Native Americans used this plant for religious ceremonies thanks to its purifying properties. Since the place where all divine rituals needed to be done had to be a clean one, White Sage was a good choice. This herb has a strong fragrance, silver and green leaves and white or purple flowers. White Sage Tea Properties The most important property of White Sage Tea is that this decoction can sanitize your entire body with just a small amount of liquid. The active substances of this tea are: diterpines and triterpenes, including carnosic acid, oleaolic acid and ursolic acid which you can only find in the leaves. Thanks to these two acids, you can use white sage leaves to sanitize localized infections, such as open wounds or cuts. White Sage Tea Benefits Aside from its cultural and ritual uses, White Sage Tea is also an important piece when it comes to alternative medicine. Some say that White Sage Tea can bring relief if you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Sinus infections, by clearing all respiratory tracks and sanitizing the lungs. - General organism malfunctions, by inducing sweat and eliminating the toxins. - Nervous system problems, by nourishing your nerves and enhancing your neuronal connections. - Arthritis and other problems of the coronary system, by preventing clotting. - Stomach pains and parasites, such as hemorrhoids. - Premenstrual syndrome pains, by purifying the uterus and increasing the blood flow. How to make White Sage Tea Infusion Making White Sage Tea infusion doesn’t take a lot of time and the steps you need to follow are very few. First, you need White Sage flowers. It doesn’t matter if you’re using them dried or freshly picked. Just use a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make. Put the flowers in a teapot and add boiling water. Wait for about 10 or 15 minutes and drink it hot or cold. Never take more than a cup of White Sage Tea per day! White Sage Tea Side Effects When taken properly, White Sage Tea is safe. However, high dosages may cause convulsions and irritated stomach. If you’ve been taking White Sage Tea for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual health episodes, talk to a doctor as soon as possible! White Sage Tea Contraindications Do not take White Sage Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. However, if you are in one of these conditions and still determined to go through with a treatment based on White Sage Tea, ask a specialist before making any move. Once you have your doctor’s approval, add White Sage Tea to your shopping list and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this great purifier!... white sage tea benefits

Xylene

(dimethylbenzene) n. a liquid used for increasing the transparency of tissues prepared for microscopic examination after dehydration. See clearing.... xylene

Sweet Flag

Acorus calamus

Araceae

San: Vaca, Ugragandha, Bhadra;

Hin: Bacc, Gorbacc;

Ben: Bach; Mal:Vayampu;

Tam: Vasampu;

Kan: Bajai;

Tel: Vasa Vadaja

Importance: The sweet flag is an important medhya drug, capable of improving memory power and intellect. It is used in vitiated conditions of vata and kapha, stomatopathy, hoarseness, colic, flatulence, dyspepsia, helminthiasis, amenorrhoea, dismenorrhoea, nephropathy, calculi, strangury, cough, bronchitis, odontalgia, pectoralgia, hepatodynia, otalgia, inflammations, gout, epilepsy, delirium, amentia, convulsions, depression and other mental disorders, tumours, dysentery, hyperdipsia, haemorrhoids, intermittent fevers, skin diseases, numbness and general debility. It is reportedly useful in improving digestion, clearing speech and curing diarrhoea, dysentery, abdominal obstruction and colic. It is also useful in infantile fever, cough bronchitis and asthma. The drug is reported to cure hysteria, insanity and chronic rheumatic complaints. The rhizome is an ingredient of preparations like Vacaditaila, Ayaskrti, Kompancadi gulika, Valiya rasnadi kashaya, etc.

Distribution: The plant is a native of Europe. It is distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics, especially in India and Sri Lanka. It is found in marshes, wild or cultivated, ascending the Himalayas upto 1800m in Sikkim. It is plentiful in marshy tracts of Kashmir and Sirmoor, in Manipur and Naga Hills.

Botany: Acorus calamus Linn. belonging to the family Araceae is a semi -aquatic rhizomatous perennial herb. Rhizome is creeping, much branched, cylindrical or slightly compressed, light brown or pinkish brown externally, white and spongy within. Leaves are bright green, distichous, ensiform, base equitant, thickened in the middle and with wavy margins. Flowers are light brown and densely packed in sessile cylindric spadix. Fruits are oblong, turbinate berries with a pyramidal top. Seeds are few and pendant from the apex of the cells (Warrier et al, 1993).

Another species belonging to the genus Acorus is A. gramineus Soland, the roots of which are used in tonic, antiseptics and insecticidal preparations (Chopra et al, 1956).

Agrotechnology: Acorus is a hardy plant found growing from tropical to subtropical climates. It needs a good and well distributed rainfall throughout the year. It needs ample sunlight during the growth period as well as after harvest for drying the rhizomes. It may be cultivated in any good but fairly moist soil. It is usually grown in areas where paddy can be grown. It comes up well in clayey soils and light alluvial soils of river bank. The field is laid out and prepared exactly as for rice, irrigated sufficiently and after ploughing twice, watered heavily and again ploughed in the puddle. Sprouted rhizome pieces are used for planting and pressed into the mud at a depth of about 5cm at a spacing of 30x30cm. The rhizomes are planted in such a way that the plants in the second row comes in between the plants of the first row and not opposite to them. FYM is to be applied at 25t/ha. Fertilisers are applied at 25:50:60 kg N:P2O5:K2O/ha/yr. Whole of FYM and 1/3 of N, P2O5 and K2O are to be added in the field during March - April as a basal dose. The remaining 2/3 of nutrients is to be given in two equal split doses at 4 months and 8 months after planting. The field is to be regularly irrigated. About 5 cm of standing water is to be maintained in the field in the beginning. Later, it is to be increased to 10 cm as the plant grows. The field is to be regularly weeded. About 8 weedings are to be carried out in all. At each weeding the plants are pressed into the soil. The plant is attacked by mealy bugs. Both shoot and root mealy bugs can be controlled by spraying the shoot and drenching the roots of grown up plants with 10 ml Methyl parathion or 15ml Oxydemeton methyl or 20ml Quinalphos in 10 litres of water. The crop is ready for harvest at the end of first year. The field is to be dried partially so that sufficient moisture is left in the soil to facilitate deep digging. The leaves start turning yellow and dry, indicating maturity. The rhizome will be at a depth of 60cm and having about 30-60cm spread. Therefore, harvesting is to be done carefully. The rhizomes are to be cut into 5-7.5cm long pieces and all the fibrous roots are to be removed. Yield of rhizome is about 10t/ha (Farooqi et al, 1991).

Properties and Activity:Rhizomes, roots and leaves yield essential oil. The important constituents of the Indian oil are asarone and its -isomer. Other constituents are and -pinene, myrcene, camphene, p-cymene, camphor and linalool, sesquiterpenic ketones like asarone, calamone, calacone, acolamone, iso-acolamone, acoragermacrone, epishyobunone, shyobunone and iso- shyobunone. Alcohol present is preisocalamendiol. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons like elemene, elemane and calarene are also present. Tricyclic sesquiterpenes present are caryophyllene, humulene, guaiene, S-guaizulene, arcurcumene, -cadinene, cadinane, calamenene, calacorene, dihydrocalacorene(calamenene), cadalene and selinene. Roots yield acoric acid as a main constituent in addition to choline. Plant also yields a flavone diglycoside- luteolin 6,8-C-diglucoside.

-asarone is the ma jor constituent of essential oil from rhizome (Dandiya et al, 1958,1959; Raquibuddoula, 1967).

Rhizome is insecticidal, pisicidal, spasmolytic, hypothermic, CNS active and analgesic. Essential oil is anticonvulsant. Rhizome is acrid, bitter, thermogenic, aromatic, intellect promoting, emetic, laxative, carminative, stomachic, anthelmintic, emmenagogue, diuretic, alexeteric, expectorant, anodyne, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, antiinflammatory, sudorific, antipyretic, sialagogue, insecticidal, tranquillizer, sedative, analgesic, antithermic, antiasthmatic, hypotensive, respiratory depressant, aperitive and tonic.... sweet flag

Thyme Tea Treats Menstrual Pains

Thyme Tea has been used since the old times to cure respiratory problems thanks to a very important volatile oil called thymol that acts as an antiseptic. Thyme is a perennial edible herb with small green leaves and lavender purple flowers. The best thing about it is that can be harvested all year round, even if in the winter the roots are frozen and dried and you need to pay more attention. Thyme is usually pest free, but if you’re thinking about growing it in your backyard, watch out for greenfly. Thyme Tea Properties Thyme Tea is usually added in cures concerning coughs, cold or fever episodes, not to mention its anti-fungal properties. Thanks to this particular quality, Thyme Tea is used to treat athlete’s foot and other skin conditions. The main ingredient of this tea is thymol, which has been discovered recently. However, people used to drink Thyme Tea for ages thanks to its curative properties. Thyme Tea Benefits The benefits of Thyme Tea are many, starting with its wonderful help concerning chest and respiratory problems, sore throat or even flatulence. Also, Thyme Tea it’s a great remedy for menstrual pains and premenstrual symptoms as well. The thymol found in this tea is used by the great medical companies to produce mouthwashes to treat gums infections and any other respiratory track inflammation. Thyme Tea had expectorant properties and it’s prescribed by many doctors as an adjuvant in clearing lung mucus. And let’s not forget the wonderful benefits that Thyme Tea offers when treating some of the digestive track problems such as excessive flatulence, nausea, indigestion, colic and loss of appetite. Aside from that, you can apply Thyme leaves on your cuts and opened wounds in order to disinfect and calm the affected area. How to make Thyme Tea Preparing Thyme Tea is easy. If you want to make 2 cups of tea, you need 2 cups of boiling water and 2 teaspoons of Thyme leaves. First, finely chop the herbs and pour the boiling water over it. Let it steep for about 10 or 15 minutes, depending on how concentrated you want it to be. You can drink it hot or keep it in your refrigerator and drink it cold whenever you want. However, don’t let the herbs boil too much: boiled plants lose their curative properties and you’ll not be able to try Thyme Tea’s wonderful benefits. Thyme Tea Side Effects According to many herbalists, drinking too much Thyme Tea can cause allergic reactions in your body or even increase its toxicity level. Also, if you are allergic to rosemary, basil, catmint, hyssop, oregano and celery, you’ll also be allergic to this tea. The best thing you can do is talk to your doctor before starting a treatment based on Thyme Tea. If you don’t know which aliments and teas cause you allergic reactions, see a specialist before taking any type of herbal treatment. Thyme Tea Contraindications Do not take Thyme Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you are experiencing vomiting episodes, it is best to talk to your doctor before making any move. Since Thyme Tea causes a highly expectorant reaction, it is indicated to drink a small quantity of it in order to avoid ulcers and other gastric problems. Drinking Thyme Tea usually causes no problem if you don’t drink more than 2 cups per day. So, if you have a sore throat and you are willing to try a natural remedy, Thyme Tea can be the right answer. Just pay attention to our indications and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... thyme tea treats menstrual pains

Wild Gourd Or Luffa Sponge

Luffa cylindrica

Description: The luffa sponge is widely distributed and fairly typical of a wild squash. There are several dozen kinds of wild squashes in tropical regions. Like most squashes, the luffa is a vine with leaves 7.5 to 20 centimeters across having 3 lobes.

Some squashes have leaves twice this size. Luffa fruits are oblong or cylindrical, smooth, and many-seeded. Luffa flowers are bright yellow. The luffa fruit, when mature, is brown and resembles the cucumber.

Habitat and Distribution: A member of the squash family, which also includes the watermelon, cantaloupe, and cucumber, the luffa sponge is widely cultivated throughout the Tropical Zone. It may be found in a semiwild state in old clearings and abandoned gardens in rain forests and semievergreen seasonal forests.

Edible Parts: You can boil the young green (half-ripe) fruit and eat them as a vegetable. Adding coconut milk will improve the flavor. After ripening, the luffa sponge develops an inedible spongelike texture in the interior of the fruit. You can also eat the tender shoots, flowers, and young leaves after cooking them. Roast the mature seeds a little and eat them like peanuts.... wild gourd or luffa sponge

Yerba Santa Tea Benefits

Yerba Santa Tea has been known for centuries for its astringent, stimulant and antibacterial action. Although it remains unknown to European public, Yerba Santa Tea has gain an impressive popularity among South and North Americans during the last 30 years. Yerba Santa is an ever-green shrub that grows in extended areas of the United Stated and which can be easily recognized by its light purple flowers, needle-like green leaves and elongated roots. The main use of Yerba Santa leaves consisted of an improvised bandage that was made by smashing a small amount of leaves in a cloth and press it against open wounds. However, this temporary bandage could only be used until a more appropriate one was found. Some say that Yerba Santa leaves are very efficient, but their effect doesn’t last too long. Yerba Santa Tea Properties Aside from its wonderful benefits as a great wound cleanser, Yerba Santa Tea has important properties that place this herb among the most important elements of the alternative medicine. The active ingredients of this tea are: bitter resins, eriodictyol, eriodictyonic acid, essential oils and tannins, which can be found mostly in the leaves. The bitter resins have antiseptic and cleansing properties which make this exotic tea a real cure in cases of internal damage. Yerba Santa Tea Benefits For many centuries, Native Americans believed that Yerba Santa Tea was truly saint thanks to its ability to treat open wounds by stopping infections from developing. Luckily, recent studies showed that Yerba Santa Tea benefits consist of much more than just open cuts cleansing.You may find this tea helpful in case you’re suffering from one of the following conditions: - Respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy, cough, by clearing the respiratory ways and restoring the well-being of your organism. - Bruises and pains, by de-clotting the affected areas and increasing the localized blood flow. - Joint pain and rheumatism, by inhibiting pain triggers and enhancing the metabolisms functions. - Fever, fatigue, counter stress, by inducing healing endorphins and nourishing the nervous system. - Yerba Santa Tea also combats allergies, insect bites and other minor injuries. How to make Yerba Santa Tea Infusion When preparing Yerba Santa Tea, you first need to make sure that the herbs you’re using are perfectly clean: you don’t want any bacteria to interfere with your treatment. Use a teaspoon of dried of freshly picked leaves for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait for 30 minutes for the health benefits to be released, strain and drink it hot or cold. You can add honey or lemon if the taste feels a bit unpleasant. Don’t drink more than 4 cups of Yerba Santa Tea per day in order to avoid other complications. Yerba Santa Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Yerba Santa Tea is perfectly safe. However, high dosages may lead to ailments of the digestive tract, such as diarrhea or constipation. If you’re yet unsure about this medical treatment, talk to your doctor or to a specialist to gather more information. Yerba Santa Tea Contraindications Do not take Yerba Santa Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, suffering from a serious health conditions that implies blood thinners or anticoagulant ingestion or if you’re preparing for a surgery that would require anesthesia. Also, children should be kept away from this treatment. However, if you’ve been already taking this tea for a while and your health is deteriorating, talk to a doctor as soon as possible! But if your general health is good and there is nothing that could interfere with a treatment based on Yerba Santa Tea, give it a try and enjoy its wonderful benefits!... yerba santa tea benefits

Cancer – Larynx

Chiefly due to continued inflammation from faulty use of the voice, smoking, drugs or infection.

Symptoms. Cough, hoarseness, difficult swallowing. ‘Always clearing the throat.’ Differs from a polyp or papilloma on the vocal chords which are benign.

Of possible value:– Teas. Balm, Chamomile, Gotu Kola, Red Clover, Red Sage, Yarrow. Plantain (Arthur Hyde MNIMH)

Tea (mild analgesic). Mix equal parts: Balm and German Chamomile. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root, Echinacea, Poke root.

Formula. Echinacea 2; Mullein 2; Goldenseal quarter. Mix. Dose: Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons. Thrice daily and at bedtime. Diet. Slippery Elm gruel.

Supplements. Vitamins A and C.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or a hospital oncologist. ... cancer – larynx

Yucca Tea Benefits

Yucca Tea has been known for a long time thanks to its ability to treat a wide range of aliments, such as skin sores, dandruff and hair loss. Native Americans used a decoction of Yucca Tea applied topically oh the scalp in order to make the hair grow faster and look shinier. Yucca is a perennial shrub with ever green, stiffed leaves and white flowers. The yuccas are widely known and cultivated as decorative plants, being used in many types of Native American wedding ceremonies. Yucca grows mainly in the North American regions and also in the West Indies, where it is used only for its medical purpose. Yucca Tea Properties Aside from decorating weddings in a delightful way, Yucca can be made into a decoction very useful in alternative medicine. Although it remains yet unknown to Asian and European public, Yucca Tea continues to be a great medical treatment in Indian and American regions thanks to its active ingredients. The main chemical ingredient of Yucca Tea are saponins (mostly is soluble in hot and cold water and can be found in almost any Indian drug store as a chemical ingredient), a precursor of cortisone, which is a natural substance known for its ability to prevent intestine toxins from being released. Yucca Tea Benefits Aside from its use as a natural cosmetic treatment that can prevent affections of the scalp, Yucca Tea is also very useful in other medical areas. You may find Yucca Tea Helpful in case you’re suffering from one of the following conditions: - Arthritis and osteoarthritis, by increasing bone cell and coronary walls action. - Inflammations, by stopping bacteria and microbes eruption. - Asthma, by clearing the respiratory ways and enhancing the system’s power to recover from asthma crisis. - Headaches and blood clots, by nourishing both the nervous and the circulatory systems. - Dandruff, when applied topically at room’s temperature. How to make Yucca Tea Infusion Preparing Yucca Tea Infusion couldn’t be any easier. Just use a teaspoon of dried leaves for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 15 minutes for the health benefits to be released. Strain and drink the tea hot or cold. However, you need to pay attention to your bowel movement. If you notice anything unusual, lower the amount of herbs you’re using. Yucca Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Yucca Tea is safe, just make sure you don’t take more than 3 cups per day. High dosages may lead to a number of complications, such as stomach upset, bitter taste, nausea and vomiting. If you’ve been taking this tea for a while and you’ve noticed some unusual changes in your general health, talk to a specialist as soon as possible. Yucca Tea Contraindications Don’t take Yucca Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you’re on blood thinners, anticoagulants or preparing for a major surgery, avoid taking a treatment based on Yucca Tea at all costs. If your general health is good, but you’re still unsure about this tea, talk to a herbalist in order to gather more information about the risks and benefits of Yucca Tea.... yucca tea benefits

Emphysema

In normal breathing the lungs spring back into their usual shape after expansion by the act of breathing-in. In emphysema, elasticity has lost its spring so the lungs become permanently expanded. Differs from chronic bronchitis by destroying walls of the air sacs. The chest is barrel-shaped through hyperinflation. Trumpeter’s lung; glass-blower’s disease, smoker’s disease. Stethoscope reveals ‘distant’ heart sounds of right heart failure, for which Hawthorn is indicated. Breathlessness on exertion. The victim cannot dispel the sensation of puffed-up lungs.

Through a lack of oxygen other muscles weaken. Rate of breathing may increase from 14-30 times per minute. Always ‘clearing the throat’. Overweight worsens.

Alternatives. Lobelia, Wild Thyme, Coltsfoot. Ephedra (practitioner only).

To loosen and thin tough mucus: Iceland Moss, Garlic, Coltsfoot, Gum ammoniac, Fenugreek seeds, Liquorice, Khella.

Decoction. Equal parts: Valerian, Liquorice root. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; simmer 15 minutes. Dose: 1 cup once or twice daily and at bedtime.

Tablets/capsules. Lobelia, Iceland Moss, Garlic.

Formula. Equal parts: Elecampane, Iceland Moss, Wild Thyme. Dose: Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons. In water, honey or banana mash, thrice daily, and during the night if necessary.

Practitioner. Alternatives.

Formula (1). Liquid extracts: Ephedra 2; Elecampane 1; Lobelia 1. Dose – 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons in water etc as above.

Formula (2). Liquid extracts: Ephedra 2; Liquorice 1. Dosage same as Formula 1. The action of both formulae is improved when taken in cup of Fenugreek decoction.

Hyssop Wine. Good responses observed. 1oz herb macerated in 1 pint white wine or Vodka for 3-4 weeks; shake daily.

A. Barker FNIMH. Liquid extract Mouse Ear 60 drops; Liquid extract Pleurisy root 30 drops; Tincture Goldenseal 30 drops; Tincture Myrrh 20 drops; Tincture Ginger 20 drops. Pure bottled or distilled water to 8oz (240ml). Dose: 2 teaspoons every 3 hours.

Diet. Low salt. High fibre. Avoid all dairy products.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin A 7500iu. Vitamin E 400iu. Folic acid 1mg. Vitamin C 200mg. Iodine, iron. Deep-breathing exercises. 2 Garlic tablets/capsules at night. For acute respiratory infections that irritate emphysema add Echinacea. ... emphysema

Haematuria

Blood in the urine. From the bladder – bright red. From the kidneys – smoky dark brown but not in clots. May not be long-lasting, clearing up without incident. Some food dyes and confectionery dye the urine red.

Symptoms. Where due to kidney: pain in the back on same side as affected kidney. May indicate tumour. Professional help should be sought. The main symptom of nephritis. Should not be confused with blood of the menstrual flow.

Alternatives. BHP (1983) recommends: Bur-Marigold, Horsetail, Sea Holly, Common Plantain, Beth root. HAMDAD recommends Grape seeds.

Cinnamon oil. Long traditional reputation in Malaysia for blood in the urine – 5-10 drops oil (or half a teaspoon powder) to control until medical attention is available or other measures adopted.

Formula. Sea Holly 3; Bur-Marigold 2; Beth root 1. Mix. Dose. Powders quarter of a teaspoon (375mg). Liquid Extracts 30-60 drops. Tinctures 1-2 teaspoons. In water thrice daily. Acute cases: every 2 hours. Dr Finlay Ellingwood. Formula. Liquid Extracts: Black Cohosh 20ml; Hydrangea 10ml; Chimiphila 5ml; Gelsemium 0.5ml. Mix. 20-40 drops in water every 2 hours, acute cases.

John Wesley (evangelist). Copious draughts of Yarrow Tea.

Note: Small stone or gravel are a common cause of blood in the urine. Rhubarb favours formation of stone, being able to induce oxaluria. Where drinking water has a high degree of hardness and rhubarb is eaten, calcium oxalate stones may be formed between the action of the water and the oxalic acid in the rhubarb.

Treatment by or in liaison with a general medical practitioner or hospital specialist. ... haematuria

Laryngitis, Chronic

 The main symptom is hoarseness or loss of voice from malfunction of the vocal cords by disease, stroke, stress, or nerve disorder. Pain on speaking. “Raw throat.”

Constitutional disturbance: fever, malaise.

Many causes, including: drugs, drinking spirits. Gross mis-use of voice (singing or talking) may produce nodules (warts) on the cords. The smoker has inflammatory changes. Nerve paralysis in the elderly. Carcinoma of the larynx. Voice changes during menstruation are associated with hormonal changes (Agnus Castus). Professional singers, members of choirs benefit from Irish Moss, Iceland Moss, Slippery Elm or Poke root.

Alternatives. Cayenne, Caraway seed, Balm of Gilead, Lungwort, Queen’s Delight, Thyme, Wild Indigo, Marsh Cudweed, Mullein, Marshmallow.

For most infections: Equal parts, Tinctures Goldenseal and Myrrh: 3-5 drops in water 3-4 times daily; use also as a spray or gargle.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Mullein, Marshmallow root, Liquorice. 2 teaspoons to each cup water brought to boil; vessel removed on boiling. Drink freely.

Practitioner. Combine equal parts: Senega, Ipecacuanha and Squills (all BP). 5-10 drops thrice daily in water. Also gargle.

Poke root. Reliable standby. Decoction, tablets/capsules. Tincture: dose, 5-10 drops thrice daily in water or honey.

Topical. Aromatherapy. Steam inhalations. Oils: Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Geranium, Lavender, Sandalwood. Any one.

Diet. Slippery Elm gruel. Salt-free. Avoid fried foods.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin A (7500iu). Vitamin C (1 gram thrice daily).

To prevent voice damage. The voice should not be strained by talking too much, shouting or singing – especially with a cold. Try not to cough or keep clearing the throat but instead, swallow firmly. Do not whisper – it will strain the voice.

A common cause of laryngitis is growth of a nodule, cyst or polyp on the vocal cords. They are visible on use of an endoscope. There are two vocal cords which, in speech, come together and vibrate like a reed in a musical instrument. In formation of a nodule they cannot meet, air escapes and the voice becomes hoarse. Relaxation technique.

Where the condition lasts for more than 4 weeks an ENT specialist should be consulted. ... laryngitis, chronic

Acne

A chronic skin disorder caused by inflammation of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands in the skin. The most common type is acne vulgaris, which almost always develops during puberty.

Acne spots are caused by the obstruction of hair follicles by sebum (the oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands). Bacteria multiply in the follicle, causing inflammation. The change in sebum secretion at puberty seems to be linked with increased levels of androgen hormones (male sex hormones).

Acne may be brought on or aggravated by drugs such as corticosteroids and androgens. Exposure to certain chemicals and oils in the workplace can also cause a type of acne.

Acne develops in areas of skin with a high concentration of sebaceous glands, mainly the face, centre of the chest, upper back, shoulders, and around the neck. Milia (whiteheads), comedones (blackheads), nodules (firm swel-lings beneath the Sebaceous Inflamed skin skin), and cysts gland (larger, fluid-filled swellings) are the most commonly occurring spots. Some, particularly cysts, leave scars after they heal.

There is no instant cure for acne, but washing the affected areas at least twice daily may help to keep it under control. Topical drug treat-ments, such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoic acid, unblock the pores and promote healing. Ultraviolet light can be beneficial. If topical treatment has failed, oral drug treatment with antibiotics, hormones, or isotretinoin may be given. Acne improves slowly over time, often clearing up by the end of the teenage years.... acne

Dehydration

n. 1. loss or deficiency of water in body tissues. The condition may result from inadequate water intake and/or from excessive removal of water from the body; for example, by sweating, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Symptoms include great thirst, nausea, and exhaustion. The condition is treated by drinking plenty of water; severe cases require *oral rehydration therapy or intravenous administration of water and salts (which have been lost with the water). 2. the removal of water from tissue during its preparation for microscopical study, by placing it successively in stronger solutions of ethyl alcohol. Dehydration follows *fixation and precedes *clearing.... dehydration

Tourette’s Syndrome

(TS, Gilles de la Tourette syndrome) a condition characterized by the simultaneous appearance of verbal and motor *tics within one year. Motor tics can be simple (eye rolling, flicking, incomplete movements) or complex (involuntary movements consisting of several components, mostly involving the arms). Verbal tics can be simple (grunts, throat clearing) or complex (uttering of words or, in 30% of patients, involuntary obscene speech). Rarely, the patient may also involuntarily repeat the words or imitate the actions of others (see palilalia). The condition usually starts in childhood and commonly improves with age. The prevalence is about 1% with a male preponderance. There is a strong hereditary element. Drug treatment and psychological support are sometimes helpful. [G. Gilles de la Tourette (1857–1904), French neurologist]... tourette’s syndrome

Rosewood

Aniba rosaeodora

FAMILY: Lauraceae

SYNONYMS: A. rosaeodora var. amazonica, bois de rose, Brazilian rosewood.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Medium-sized, tropical, evergreen tree with a reddish bark and heartwood, bearing yellow flowers. Used extensively for timber. NB: This is one of the trees that is being extensively felled in the clearing of the South American rainforests; the continual production of rosewood oil is consequently enviromentally damaging.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to the Amazon region; Brazil and Peru are the main producers.

OTHER SPECIES: There are several species of timber all known as rosewood; however, the essential oil is only distilled from the above species. French Guiana used to produce the cayenne rosewood (Ocotea caudata), which is superior in quality to the Peruvian or Brazilian type.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: Used for building, carving and French cabinet making. Nowadays, most rosewood goes to Japan for the production of chopsticks.

ACTIONS: Mildly analgesic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, antimicrobial, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, bactericidal, cellular stimulant, cephalic, deodorant, stimulant (immune system), tissue regenerator, tonic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation of the wood chippings.

CHARACTERISTICS: Colourless to pale yellow liquid with a very sweet, woody-floral fragrance with a spicy hint. Blends well with most oils, especially citrus, woods and florals. It helps give body and rounds off sharp edges.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Linalol (90–97 per cent) in cayenne rosewood; in the Brazilian oil slightly less (80–90 per cent). Also cineol, terpineol, geraniol, citronella!, limonene, pinene, among others.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, nonsensitizing.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Acne, dermatitis, scars, wounds, wrinkles and general skin care: sensitive, dry, dull, combination oily/dry, etc. ‘Although it does not have any dramatic curative power ... I find it very useful especially for skin care. It is very mild and safe to use.’.

Immune system: Colds, coughs, fever, infections, stimulates the immune system.

Nervous system: Frigidity, headaches, nausea, nervous tension and stress-related conditions.

OTHER USES: Once extensively used as a source of naturallinalol, now increasingly replaced by the synthetic form. Acetylated rosewood oil is used extensively in perfumery work – soaps, toiletries, cosmetics and perfumes. The oil is employed in most major food categories, alcoholic and soft drinks.... rosewood




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