Contraindication Health Dictionary

An indexed computer or printed source that provides information, in the form of guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and care indications, about older persons, or other authoritative information (for example, a computer database on drug indications, contraindications and interactions).... factual database

Acetazolamide is a sulphonamide drug which acts by inhibiting the ENZYME, carbonic anhydrase. This enzyme is of great importance in the production of acid and alkaline secretions in the body. Acetazolamide is sometimes used as a second-line drug for partial seizures in EPILEPSY. It also has a diuretic action (see DIURETICS) and is used to treat GLAUCOMA. The drug has a range of side-effects. Related agents include dorzolamide and brinzolamide, used as eye-drops in patients resistant to beta blockers or who have contraindications to them.... acetazolamide

Avocado (Persea americana).

Plant Part Used: Leaves, seed, fruit.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaves are traditionally prepared as an infusion and taken orally for diabetes, diarrhea, inducing abortion, intestinal worms, menstrual cramps, parasites and vaginal infections, and the seed decoction is taken for contraception. The fruit is typically used for nutritional and culinary purposes.

Safety: No data on the safety of the leaf or the seed in humans has been identified in the available literature; animal toxicity studies have shown equivocal results. The fruit is commonly consumed as food and generally regarded as safe.

Contraindications: Oral use of the leaves is contraindicated during pregnancy (due to emmenagogue and uterine muscle stimulating effects) and lactation (due to potential for harmful effects based on case reports in goats). No information on the safety of the leaves in children has been identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Warfarin: fruit may inhibit anticoagulant effect. Monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOI): one case of hypertension crisis has been reported due to concomitant ingestion of the fruit and MAOI.

Clinical Data: The following effects of this plant have been investigated in human clinical trials: fruit: cholesterol and lipid-lowering, treatment of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and triglyceride-lowering; avocado/soybean unsaponifiables: treatment of osteoarthritis; and oil: treatment of plaque psoriasis.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antihemorrhage, hepatoprotective, immuno-modulating, uterine muscle stimulant, trypanocidal, uterine stimulant and vasorelaxant.

* See entry for Aguacate in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... aguacate

Pepper, bell pepper, chili pepper, cayenne (Capsicum annuum, C. frutescens & C. chinense).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, fruit.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as a warm poultice and applied topically for skin abscesses, boils or infections, or prepared as a tea and taken orally for menstrual cramps and related disorders. The fruit is typically used for culinary and nutritional purposes and is said to increase heat in the body.

Safety: No data on the safety of the leaf in humans (for internal or external use) has been identified in the available literature; however, in animal studies, topical application of the leaf did not show signs of toxicity or adverse effects. The fruit is widely consumed and considered safe in moderate amounts. Prolonged or excessive use may cause irritation of the mucosa or other adverse effects.

Contraindications: No data on the safety of this plant during pregnancy, lactation or in children has been identified in the available literature. The fruit should not be taken by patients with inflammatory gastro-intestinal or renal disorders. Avoid contact with the eyes or open wounds due to potential irritation of the mucosa.

Drug Interactions: Consumption of the fruit may inhibit liver microsomal enzymes and potentiate drugs metabolized by these enzymes. Aspirin and salicylic acid compounds: bioavailability may be reduced by concurrent use of peppers. Barbiturates: concomitant use of the dried fruit has been shown to potentiate the effects of hexobarbital. Anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, thrombolytic agents: concomitant use of the fruit may increase the risk of bleeding.

Clinical Data: No human clinical trials of the leaf have been identified in the available literature. The fruit has been investigated in clinical trials for the following effects: analgesic, carotenoid bioavailability enhancement, gastroprotective, swallowing dysfunction treatment and urinary incontinence treatment.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, chemopreventive, cytotoxic, learning enhancement, learning impairment amelioration and renoprotective.

* See entry for Ají in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... ají

A non-opioid analgesic (see ANALGESICS) used in the short-term management of moderate to severe acute post-operative pain. It may be given orally or by intramuscular or intravenous injection. Gastrointestinal side-effects are common in elderly people, and there are a range of side-effects from ANAPHYLAXIS to HYPERTENSION, prolonged bleeding time and liver function changes. Contraindications include hypersensitivity to ASPIRIN, ASTHMA, renal impairment and pregnancy (including during labour and delivery).... ketorolac

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum).

Plant Part Used: Leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: poultice, topically, for wounds, skin infections, bug bites, sinus infection and headache.

Safety: Cases of toxic effects in humans have been reported due to ingestion of the dried leaf or nicotine and excessive exposure to the fresh leaf.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation, children under 5 years.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: acaricidal, antifungal, insecticidal (methanolic leaf extracts); antifungal (seed).

* See entry for Tabaco in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... tabaco

n. (in medicine) 1. a strong reason for believing that a particular course of action is desirable. In a wounded patient, the loss of blood, which would lead to circulatory collapse, is an indication for blood transfusion. 2. any of the conditions for which a particular drug treatment may be prescribed, as defined by its *licence. Compare contraindication.... indication

Garlic (Allium sativum).

Plant Part Used: Bulb.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The bulb is traditionally ingested raw for high blood pressure, upper-respiratory infection, common cold, flu-like symptoms and cough, and the alcohol extract is taken internally for sinusitis. The bulb skins are traditionally prepared as a tea and taken internally for indigestion and gastro-intestinal complaints.

Safety: The bulb is generally regarded as safe for human consumption. Reported adverse effects include skin burns due to topical application (especially in children with prolonged exposure). Adverse effects associated with internal use include halitosis, body odor, gastrointestinal irritation, constipation, headache, nausea, fatigue and vertigo.

Contraindications: Not to be taken at therapeutic doses for 10 days prior to surgery due to antiplatelet activity and risk of excessive bleeding. The bulb is contraindicated during lactation.

Drug Interactions: Chlorzoxazone: garlic may reduce drug metabolism. Indomethacin and NSAIDs: risk of excessive bleeding. Protease inhibitors: reduced blood levels. Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1: garlic may inhibit efficacy. Forskilin: garlic may potentiate antiplatelet activity.

Clinical Data: The following effects have been investigated in human clinical trials: treatment of atherosclerosis, common cold, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, hypertension and unstable angina pectoris.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, antifungal, antihypertensive, antineoplastic, antinociceptive, antioxidant, anti-platelet-aggregant, antithrombic, antiviral and immune enhancing.... ajo

Sesame (Sesamum indicum).

Plant Part Used: Seed, seed oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The seed oil is traditionally taken orally for asthma, bronchitis, common cold, flu and pneumonia, and the seed emulsion is taken orally for asthma, administered to both children and adults.

Safety: The seed and seed oil are generally regarded as safe for human consumption, and no adverse reactions have been reported in clinical studies.

Contraindications: None identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: None identified in the available literature.

Clinical Data: The following effects of the seed oil or seeds have been investigated in human clinical trials: antidiabetic, dry nasal mucosa treatment, enterolactone precursor, hypocholesterolemic, hypotensive, infant growth stimulus, postmenopausal support, sex hormone binding globulin increase, sleep improvement, thiobarbituric acid reacting substance decrease and Vitamin E status improvement.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): antitumor, antineoplasm, antihypertensive, antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic and improved Vitamin E bioavailability.

* See entry for Ajonjolí in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... ajonjolí

Basil (Ocimum basilicum).

Plant Part Used: Aerial parts: leaf, stem, flower.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The aerial parts or leaves are traditionally prepared as a tea and taken orally for stomach ache, indigestion, gastro-intestinal pain, internal cleansing and women’s health conditions.

Safety: This herb is generally regarded as safe for human consumption in moderate amounts and widely used as a culinary seasoning.

Contraindications: The essential oil should not be used during pregnancy, lactation or in small children.

Drug Interactions: Synergistic effects may occur with drugs that share similar pharmacological activities as those described for this plant in the “Laboratory and Preclinical Data” section; metabolism of one of basil’s active constituents, estragole, may be hindered by concomitant use of medications metabolized by UGT2B7 or UGT1A9 phase II enzymes.

Clinical Data: No human clinical trials of this plant have been identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): analgesic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, anti-ulcerogenic, gastric anti-ulcerogenic, glutathione S-transferase and smooth muscle relaxant.

* See entry for Albahaca in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... albahaca

a combined vaccine against measles, mumps, and German measles (rubella). It is currently recommended that this vaccine is given to all children at 12 months of age with a booster dose at 3 years 4 months of age or soon after (see immunization). Specific contraindications include immunosuppression and allergy to eggs. Claims of a link between the vaccine and autism and Crohn’s disease have been investigated and no credible evidence for such a relationship has been found.... mmr vaccine

n. a complementary therapy based on the theory that reflex points on the feet correspond with all body parts. Firm pressure is applied to the relevant reflex points using the thumb or fingers. Reflexology is said to be able to help with specific illnesses and may also restore the body’s natural balance and harmony. It can be used for people of any age and there are very few contraindications.... reflexology

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora).

Plant Part Used: Essential oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The crystallized essential oil is traditionally prepared as an ointment and applied topically for treating sinusitis, headache, upper-respiratory tract infections, muscle pain, joint pain, asthma, bronchitis, difficulty breathing and phlegm in the lungs. For internal use, a small amount of the essential oil is dissolved in water and taken orally for gas, indigestion and stomach ache.

Safety: Internal use of the essential oil can be highly toxic (adult lethal dose = 20 g; toxic at 2 g; child lethal dose < 1 g). External use may cause skin irritation. Overdose symptoms include: delirium, spasms, intoxicated states and irregular breathing.

Contraindications: Caution advised when administered topically to children, and external use is contraindicated in cases of broken skin. In infants and small children (< 2 years), the oil should not be administered near the nose or via inhalation due to potential nervous system overstimulation or possibility of seizures. Avoid internal use during pregnancy (due to emmenagogue and uterine stimulant effects) and lactation (due to potential toxicity).

Clinical Data: The following effects of the essential oil have been investigated in human clinical trials: nasal sensation of cold, central nervous system stimulant, antiplatelet, Demodex rosacea treatment and ophthalmic disorder treatment.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of the essential oil or its constituents have been investigated using in vitro or animal models: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, biosurfactant, cytotoxic, positively inotropic, ribosome inactivation, smooth muscle stimulant and superoxide dismutase.

* See entry for Alcanfor in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... alcanfor

Cotton, creole cotton (Gossypium barbadense).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, flower, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as a decoction and taken orally for vaginal infections, genitourinary inflammation, excess vaginal discharge and infections in general. The flower is typically prepared as a decoction and administered as a douche for excess vaginal discharge and genitourinary infections.

Safety: No information on the safety of the leaf, root or flower has been identified in the available literature. In human clinical trials the isolated constituent gossypol showed the following adverse effects: hypokalemia, irreversible anti-fertility (in men), fatigue, decreased libido and gastrointestinal disorders.

Contraindications: Insufficient information has been identified in the available literature.

Drug interactions: Insufficient information has been identified in the available literature.

Clinical Data: The isolated constituent gossypol has been investigated in human clinical trials for antifertility effects in men.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In animal studies the leaf aqueous extract has shown hypotensive effects. In vitro, gossypol has shown antifertility effects against sperm cells.

* See entry for Algodón in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... algodón

Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica).

Plant Part Used: Cactus pad (leaf-stem).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The fresh cactus pad is traditionally prepared as a juice taken orally for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stomach ailments and indigestion. The gel from inside the leaf-stem is typically applied topically for wound-healing.

Safety: The cactus pad and fruit are widely consumed and generally considered safe. Caution is advised during handling due to sharp spines and glochids which cover the surface; these spiny projections should be removed before use. Cases of contact dermatitis have been reported.

Contraindications: Contraindicated in individuals with a history of allergy or hypersensitivity to Opuntia and other cactus species. Due to lack of available data, avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding and in small children.

Drug Interactions: Besides potential synergistic effects with drugs that share similar biological activities to this plant (see “Laboratory and Preclinical Data”), particularly diabetes and blood-sugar modulating medications, insufficient information has been identified on herb-drug interactions in the available literature.

Clinical Data: The following effects of this plant have been investigated in human clinical trials: anti-hangover, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-lipid peroxidation.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following activities of this plant have been shown in laboratory and preclinical studies: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, chondroprotective, gastro-protective, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, radical scavenging and wound-healing.

* See entry for Alquitira in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... alquitira

Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia and A. peruviana).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, aerial parts.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as a tea and taken orally for arthritis, delayed menses, diarrhea (in children and adults), infections, kidney ailments, menstrual pain, postpartum cleansing and stomach ache. It is also used externally as a poultice for menstrual pain and as a bath for energetic cleansing, good luck and spiritual protection.

Safety: The pollen of Ambrosia species is a common allergen and may cause symptoms of hayfever in hypersensitive individuals. Plant material should be washed thoroughly before use to remove pollen. Cases of contact dermatitis, eczema, allergic conjunctivitis and other adverse effects have been associated with this plant.

Contraindications: Due to lack of available safety information, avoid use during pregnancy or lactation and in children under 5 years of age.

Drug Interactions: Synergistic interactions may occur with medications that share similar biological activities to those demonstrated by this herb (see “Clinical Data” and “Laboratory & Preclinical Data” below).

Clinical Data: The following effects of Ambrosia artemisiifolia have been investigated in human clinical trials: allergenic, immunotherapeutic and irritant.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: Ambrosia species have shown the following biological activities in laboratory or preclinical studies using in vitro or animal models: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimycobacterial and cytotoxic.

* See entry for Altamisa in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... altamisa

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).

Plant Part Used: Dried flower buds.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The dried flower buds are traditionally prepared as a tea and taken orally for anxiety/nervousness, stomach ache, indigestion, gas, menopausal hot flashes, common cold and flu.

Safety: Lavender is generally regarded as safe when used in moderation. Potential adverse effects include drowsiness, gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.

Contraindications: Excessive internal use of this herb is contraindicated during early pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effect demonstrated in laboratory studies. Due to lack of sufficient data on safety, avoid use during lactation and in small children.

Drug Interactions: Concomitant use of this herb with sedative or tranquilizing drugs, such as pentobarbital, may potentiate their effects based on evidence from animal studies. Additional herb-drug interactions may occur in medications with effects similar to those demonstrated by this plant clinical and preclinical studies (see below).

Clinical Data: The following effects of this plant have been investigated in human clinical trials: antianxiety, antidepressant, anti-stress, anxiolytic, dysmenorrhea treatment, hypnotic, insomnia treatment, retrospective pain perception and sedative.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: This plant has shown the following biological activities in laboratory and preclinical studies: acaricidal, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antineoplastic, antitumor, sedative and hypolipidemic.

* See entry for Alucema in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... alucema

Guinea-hen-weed (Petiveria alliacea).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, root, stem.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The root is traditionally prepared as a tincture in alcohol and taken orally for arthritis, joint and muscle pain. The leaf and/or root is typically prepared as an infusion and taken orally for nausea and stomach ailments, women’s health conditions (dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, menopausal symptoms, ovarian cysts, labor pains, postpartum recovery, uterine fibroids) and to cleanse the blood. The leaf is also prepared as a poultice and applied topically for skin infections.

Safety: No data on the safety of this plant in humans has been identified in the available literature. Animal studies of the leaf have shown relatively low toxicity, and TRAMIL has approved this herb for particular traditional uses.

Contraindications: Avoid use during pregnancy, lactation and in children under 12 years of age.

Drug Interactions: Concomitant use of this herb with insulin and hypoglycemic drugs may potentiate their effects.

Clinical Data: No human clinical trials have been identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities have been demonstrated in laboratory and preclinical studies (using in vitro or animal models): analgesic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, chemopreventive, cytotoxic and hypoglycemic.

* See entry for Anamú in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... anamú

Anise, anise burnet-saxifrage (Pimpinella anisum).

Plant Part Used: Fruit (seed).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The seeds are traditionally prepared as a decoction and taken orally for colic (in children and adults), common cold, empacho, flatulence, flu, gastrointestinal disorders, headache, indigestion, nervous tension, pasmo and stress.

Safety: The seeds are generally regarded as safe for human consumption in moderation and widely used as a culinary spice. Caution is advised if this herbal remedy is combined with anís de estrella due to potential contamination with a toxic look-alike (see entry for “Anís de estrella”).

Contraindications: Studies show conflicting recommendations regarding safety of internal use during pregnancy and lactation. Use of this herb in combination with anís de estrella is contraindicated in children (due to potential for contamination with the toxic look-alike Illicium anisatum (see “Anís de estrella”); however, anís chiquito is considered safe for children when used appropriately.

Drug interactions: Anticoagulants, NSAIDS, antiplatelet drugs, warfarin: Avoid use of anís chiquito if taking any of these medications due to potential risk of excessive bleeding as a result of interaction with coumarin derivatives.

Clinical Data: No clinical trials of the oral use of this herb have been identified in the available literature. One open clinical trial has evaluated the pediculicidal effects of anise oil in combination with other ingredients.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been investigated in laboratory studies using in vitro or animal models: anticonvulsant, antidiuretic, antiflatulent, antifungal, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, estrogenic, expectorant, hypotensive, liver regeneration, muscle stimulant and mutagenic.

* See entry for Anís chiquito in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... anís chiquito

Chinese star anise (Illicium verum).

Plant Part Used: Fruit, seed.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The fruits or seeds are traditionally prepared as a decoction and taken orally for flatulence, headache, indigestion, stomach ache, upper respiratory tract infection and cleansing the intestines.

Safety: The fruit is generally considered safe for human consumption in small amounts and is widely used as a culinary spice. When taken in excessive quantities, isolated compounds from the fruit have shown neurotoxic effects in animal studies. Caution is advised due to possible adulteration with the highly poisonous look-alike, Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum).

Contraindications: Avoid use in small children due to potential contamination with misidentified toxic look-alike. Caution and avoidance is advised in patients with a history of convulsive disorders including epilepsy due to case reports of seizures associated with internal use of the tea. Caution advised in patients prior to surgery due to potential risk of increased bleeding.

Drug Interactions: Anticoagulants, antiplatelet medications and NSAIDS: based on animal studies in mice, star anise increases cytochrome P450 dependent 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase activity which may affect the metabolism of these drugs.

Clinical Data: No human clinical trials evaluating this plant species have been identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been demonstrated in laboratory and preclinical studies using in vitro or animal models: antiangiogenic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, insecticidal, neurotropic and sepsis prevention.

* See entry for Anís de estrella in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... anís de estrella

Cake bush (Piper marginatum).

Plant Part Used: Leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as a decoction and taken orally for flatulence, indigestion and stomach pain.

Safety: No data on the safety of this plant in humans or animals has been identified in the available literature.

Contraindications: Insufficient information has been identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Insufficient information has been identified in the available literature.

Clinical Data: No human clinical trials of this plant have been identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of the essential oil or plant extracts have been demonstrated in laboratory studies using in vitro assays: antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic.

* See entry for Aniseto in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... aniseto

Wormseed (Chenopodium ambrosioides). Plant Part Used: Leaf, aerial parts.Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf and aerial parts are traditionally prepared as an infusion or crushed to extract their juice which is administered orally for colic, diarrhea, stomach ache, intestinal parasites and gas.Safety: The leaves are widely consumed as a culinary seasoning in small amounts. Cases of contact dermatitis due to handling the plant have been reported. The leaves have shown relatively low toxicity in animal studies, and the seed oil and isolated constituents can be highly toxic.Contraindications: Avoid use of the oil in pregnancy (due to abortifacient effects) and young children (< 4 y). Internal use is contraindicated in the following conditions: gastro-intestinal inflammation (mucosal irritant), heart disease (cardiac depressive), liver disease (hepatotoxic) and kidney disease (renotoxic).Drug Interactions: Insufficient information identified in the available literature.Clinical Data: The leaf and plant extract have been investigated in human clinical trials for the following effects: antiparasitic and antiascariasis.Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been demonstrated in laboratory and preclinical studies using in vitro or animal models: in vivo: analgesic, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antiulcerogenic, sedative (plant extracts or constituents); anthelmintic, antifungal (essential oil).In vitro: analgesic, antibacterial, antimalarial, insecticidal, sedative (plant extracts or constituents); antifungal (essential oil).* See entry for Apasote in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... apasote

Celery (Apium graveolens variety dulce).

Plant Part Used: Stalk, leaves, roots, seeds.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The stalks and leaves are traditionally eaten raw or taken as a juice for treating obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and menopausal hot flashes.

Safety: The stalks, leaf and root are widely consumed and generally considered safe. Cases of allergic reaction to the root have been reported. Plants infected with pink rot fungus can cause phototoxicoses.

Contraindications: Internal use of the seeds and essential oil are contraindicated during pregnancy (emmenagoge, abortifacient, uterine stimulating effects) and patients with renal disorders (potential kidney-irritating effect of oil).

Drug Interactions: Celery seeds and seed extract: anticoagulants, warfarin (risk of bleeding, drug potentiation); thyroxine (lowered T4 levels).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive (plant extract); hepatoprotective (seeds).

In vitro: antimicrobial, antioxidant (plant extract); cercaricidal (essential oil); vasodilation (chemical constituent).

* See entry for Apio in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... apio

Oats, oatmeal, oatstraw (Avena sativa).

Plant Part Used: Seeds (oat grain), fruiting tops.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Oats are traditionally boiled in water to make oatmeal or an oatmeal-like beverage and taken orally for high cholesterol, to stimulate lactation, for nutrition and strength and to relieve menopausal hot flashes.

Safety: Oats are commonly consumed and generally regarded as safe. They have shown low potential for allergic reaction in gluten-sensitive individuals.

Contraindications: In patients with celiac disease, oats may cause gastrointestinal irritation, but they have been shown to be well-tolerated in recent clinical studies.

Drug Interactions: Lovastatin and statin drugs (impaired absorption of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors).

Clinical Data: The following effects of oats or oat extracts have been investigated in human clinical trials: anti-diabetic, cholesterol-lowering, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, smoking cessation (grain extract or oat bran); antihyperlipidemic, antihypertensive, reduced heart disease risk, stimulation of bile acid secretion and synthesis, tolerance in celiac patients (whole-grain and oat bran); anti-skin irritant, burn wound-healing, itch reduction (topical oil-based preparation).

* See entry for Avena in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... avena

Caribbean coralfruit (Doyerea emetocathartica).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: tea for diabetes. Root: infusion or multi-herb tincture, orally, for sexually transmitted infections, menstrual disorders, uterine fibroids, digestive and colon ailments.

Safety: No studies on the safety of this plant in humans or animals have been identified in the available literature.

Contraindications: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Clinical, Laboratory & Preclinical Data: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

* See entry for Batata de burro in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... batata de burro

Chewstick (Gouania lupuloides).

Plant Part Used: Stem, leaf, root, water from inside stem.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The stem is traditionally used in multi-herb preparations and taken orally for infections, kidney ailments, reproductive disorders, venereal disease, blood-cleansing, menstrual disorders, uterine fibroids and menopause symptoms.

Safety: No data on the safety of this plant in humans has been identified in the available literature. This plant has shown some evidence of toxicity in animal studies, but more research is needed.

Contraindications: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In animal studies the leaf and branch extract has shown muscle-relaxant effects. In vitro isolated compounds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity and CNS sedative effects and the plant extract has shown vasodilatory effects.

* See entry for Bejuco de indio in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... bejuco de indio

Watercress (Nasturtium officinale).

Plant Part Used: Leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The fresh leaf is traditionally eaten raw or juiced and administered orally for anemia, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, upper respiratory tract infection, bronchitis and tuberculosis.

Safety: The leaves and stems of this plant are widely consumed and generally regarded as safe. Caution is advised as this plant may carry liver flukes or other parasites if grown in contaminated water.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, children under 4 y, stomach or intestinal ulcers, inflammatory renal disease.

Clinical Data: Clinical: anticancer, chemopreventive, potential inhibition of oxidative metabolism of acetaminophen (fresh plant).

* See entry for Berro in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... berro

Annatto (Bixa orellana).

Plant Part Used: Seed coats, leaves.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The powdered seed coats are traditionally combined with other plants to make a tea or vegetable juice drink for treating anemia, cysts, dysmenorrhea, tumors, uterine fibroids and to support post-partum recovery. The seeds coats and/or leaves are also used externally for topical burns, injury and musculoskeletal trauma.

Safety: The seeds and seed coats are generally regarded as safe and commonly used as a culinary flavoring and coloring agent. Animal studies have shown this plant to be relatively nontoxic, although allergic reactions reported.

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; history of allergic reaction.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The seed extract has shown the following activities in animal studies: anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive, hyperglycemic. In vitro the plant extract has demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and antiplatelet effects, and the seed extract has shown anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and immunomodulatory activity.

* See entry for Bija in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... bija

Life plant (Kalanchoe pinnata).

Note: this name can also refer to: Mala madre. Distinguishing feature: bruja leaves are shorter than those of mala madre.

Plant Part Used: Leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaves are traditionally heated until wilted and squeezed to extract the juice from inside the leaf which is applied topically for earache. The bruised, fresh leaves are also applied topically for headache, and the fresh leaves or leaf juice are taken orally for stomach ache and ulcers.

Safety: In a clinical case report, the leaf extract (30 g fresh leaves per day taken orally for 14 days) did not show any signs of toxicity or adverse effects in one adult female patient. The leaf orally administered to mice for 30 days did not show signs of toxicity to the liver, heart or kidney.

Contraindications: No information has been identified in the available literature on the safety of this plant in children or during pregnancy or lactation.

Clinical Data: In one clinical case report the leaf extract was investigated for its potential in treating leishmaniasis.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In animal studies the leaf extract has shown antitumor effects and the leaf juice has shown hepatoprotective activity. In vitro, the leaf extract or constituents have demonstrated antitumor and uterine stimulant effects.

* See entry for Bruja in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... bruja

Chocolate (Theobroma cacao).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, seeds.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The seeds are traditionally prepared as a tea by decoction (i.e. hot chocolate) taken orally for fatigue and weakness. The leaf decoction is used for kidney and urinary tract disorders.

Safety: Chocolate is widely consumed and generally regarded as safe. No data on the safety of the leaf has been identified in the available literature.

Contraindications: Avoid use in individuals with a history of heart disorders (due to cardiac stimulant effects) or hypersensitivity (due to potential skin reactions or migraines).

Drug Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with phenelzine due to potential for high blood pressure. The following medications may inhibit caffeine metabolism or clearance: oral contraceptives, cimetidine, furafylline, verapamil, disulfiram, fluconoazole, mexiletine, phenylpropanolamine, numerous quinolone antibiotics (i.e. enoxacin, pipemidic acid, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin), idrocilamide and methoxsalen.

Clinical Data: The following effects of the seed extract have been investigated in human clinical trials: anti-ulcer, antioxidant and decreased platelet function.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In animal studies the seed extract has shown anti-ulcer effects. In vitro the seed extracts and/or constituents have shown antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-tumor, cardio-protective, dopaminergic, immunomodulatory and red blood cell production stimulant effects.

* See entry for Cacao in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cacao

Gingerbush (Pavonia spinifex).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf and root are traditionally prepared as a tea by decoction and administered orally for disorders of the kidney, gallbladder or liver, blood in the urine, hepatitis, sexually transmitted infections, uterine fibroids, tumors, cysts and menopausal hot flashes.

Safety: Insufficient information identified.

Contraindications: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Unknown; insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The chloroform extract of the plant has shown antibacterial activity in vitro.

* See entry for Cadillo de gato in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cadillo tres pies

Coffee (Coffea arabica).

Plant Part Used: Seed, leaf.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The roasted seeds are traditionally brewed to prepare coffee and taken orally as a laxative, diuretic, stimulant, blood cleanser and for treating sexually transmitted infections or used as a mouthwash for toothache and inflammation of the mouth or gums. The seeds tinctured in alcohol are applied topically for arthritis and muscle pain. The leaves are typically prepared as a tea by infusion and taken orally for diarrhea, and may also be prepared as a bath for skin ailments.

Safety: The seeds and seed decoction are widely consumed and generally considered safe. One of the primary active constituents in coffee is caffeine. Potential adverse effects from excess coffee intake include diarrhea, insomnia, headache, heart palpitations, hyperacidity and stomach irritation. No data on the safety of the leaf in humans has been identified in the available literature. In animal studies, the leaf showed no evident signs of toxicity.

Contraindications: Excess caffeine consumption (including coffee) is not advised during pregnancy or lactation. Caution is advised in patients with renal dysfunction and hyperthyroidism. No data on the safety of the leaves in pregnancy, lactation or small children has been identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Coffee may interfere with drug resorption. The following medications may inhibit caffeine metabolism or clearance: oral contraceptives, cimetidine, furafylline, verapamil, disulfiram, fluconoazole, mexiletine, phenylpropanolamine, numerous quinolone antibiotics (i.e. enoxacin, pipemidic acid, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin), idrocilamide and methoxsalen.

Clinical Data: Caffeine has been investigated in human clinical trials for its cognitive enhancement effects, and coffee has been studied as a colonic stimulant and common cold treatment.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In animal studies, coffee has shown hypercholesterolemic effects, and in vitro it has shown antioxidant activity.

* See entry for Café in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... café

Rabbit’s foot fern (Polypodium aureum).

Plant Part Used: Leaf (fern frond).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaf is traditionally prepared as an infusion and taken orally for the common cold, flu and upper respiratory tract infections.

Safety: In a human clinical trial of the plant extract, no toxic or adverse effects were reported.

Contraindications: Insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Insufficient information identified in the available literature.

Clinical Data: The plant extract has been studied in one human clinical trial for its photoprotective effects and was recommended as a potential therapy.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: Plant extracts have shown antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunosuppressant effects in animal studies. Isolated constituents (calagualine) or plant extracts have shown anti-tumor, antiviral, immunomodulatory and leukotriene formation inhibition activity in vitro.... calaguala

Golden shower tree (Cassia fistula).

Plant Part Used: Fruit (seed pod).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Seed pods: decoction, orally, for constipation, to expel worms and as a laxative.

Safety: No health risks identified in literature for proper use; however, long-term or excessive use can have adverse effects.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation, children under 12 y; persons with acute intestinal inflammatory disease or appendicitis.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-diabetic (leaf and bark extracts), antifertility, sedative, CNS depressant (seed extract), anti-inflammatory (leaf extract), anti-neoplastic, anti-tumor (fruit extract), antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic.

In vitro: anti-alzheimer’s (root extract), antibacterial.

* See entry for Cañafístula in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cañafístula

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum cassia).

Plant Part Used: Inner bark.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The inner bark is traditionally prepared as a decoction and taken orally for allergy, anxiety, arthritis, low blood pressure, kidney ailments, common cold, flu, sinusitis and women’s health conditions.

Safety: The bark is generally regarded as safe and widely consumed as a culinary spice. Excessive or prolonged use may cause irritation.

Contraindications: Large quantities of cinnamon should not be during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects.

Drug Interactions: Methacyclines (interferes with dissolution).

Clinical Data: Human clinical trials: antidiabetic (bark).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antioxidant (bark).

In vitro: antibacterial, antifungal, headlice treatment, HEp-2 treatment (essential oil).

* See entry for Canela in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... canela

Allspice, bay rum tree (Pimenta dioica).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, berry, essential oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: tea for common cold, flu; externally: mashed and applied topically for arthritis, joint pain; multi-herb tincture: taken internally for impotence, infertility, sexually transmitted infections. Berries, essential oil: externally for joint pain.

Safety: Potential hypersensitivity to essential oil. Leaf extract: low to moderate toxicity when taken orally.

Contraindications: Lack of information on use in pregnancy, lactation or young children.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: antibacterial, antifungal (essential oil). In vivo: anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive (leaf extract).

* See entry for Canelilla in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... canelilla

Mexican prickly poppy (Argemone mexicana).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, flower, root and stem.Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf/whole herb: prepared as a tea for blood-cleansing, cancer, stomach ulcers, delayed menstruation, vaginal infection, menopause symptoms; prepared as a douche for vaginal infection and inflammation; as a multi-herb mixture for ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and tumors; root: boiled tea for stomach pain.Safety: Entire plant shown to be hepatotoxic due to sanguinarine and alkaloid content, especially concentrated in the seeds; internal use strongly cautioned against.Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation, children.Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: antifungal, anti-HIV, anti-tumor, morphine-withdrawal alleviation, uterine stimulant (organic plant extracts).* See entry for Cardo santo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.

... cardo santo

Cascara Sagrada Tea has been known since ancient times as a great stimulant and laxative agent. In fact, the ones to discover its medical benefits were the American. The first proofs of this fact date from the 17th century, when American practitioners used Cascara Sagrada bark to treat many bacterial ailments of the digestive system. Cascara is a small shrub that grows mainly in the North America, in states like Idaho, California or Montana. Cascara never grows taller than 50 centimeters and has pale yellow greenish leaves and deep green leaves. Also known as rhamnus purshiana, Cascara has purple fruits or black berries that hide usually three hard seeds. Cascara Sagrada is harvested in the fall and can only be used dried (one year apart from the harvesting time) in order to release its curative benefits. Many people in Northern America specialize in Cascara Sagrada harvesting and herb processing (the plant needs to be properly dried and according to a list of specifications). Cascara Sagrada Tea Properties Cascara Sagrada Tea is known for its strong, stimulant and laxative properties. The main substances of this tea are very efficient in cases of nervous system failures and intestinal tract ailments. Cascara Sagrada Tea has a very bitter and therefore unpleasant taste. That’s why most people prefer to take it as capsules or extracts. Cascara Sagrada Tea Benefits Aside from its use as a constipation treatment, Cascara Sagrada Tea can also cure a variety of diseases involving the digestive tract, such as intestinal parasites or bacterial infections. However, make sure that you take this tea responsibly and don’t forget that this is a medical treatment wich only should be taking while you’re sick. Don’t try to replace your morning coffee with Cascara Sagrada Tea or you’ll face a series of complications! How to make Cascara Sagrada Tea Infusion When preparing Cascara Sagrada Tea, you have to make sure that you only use ingredients from a trusted provider. Nowadays, there are many illegal substances on the market sold as tea. Also, the herb you bought may be exactly what the label says it is, but not properly dried, in which case you’ll suffer from unwanted complications as well. Once you have the right ingredients, use a teaspoon of dried herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 20 minutes for the wonderful benefits to be released. Strain the decoction and drink it hot or cold. You may also add honey or even sugar if the taste feels a bit unpleasant. Cascara Sagrada Tea Side Effects When taken in small amounts, Cascara Sagrada Tea is a safe treatment. However, high dosages may lead to various problems, such as urine discoloration, blood in stools, pain and vomiting. Make sure the dosage you’re using is the appropriate one or ask your doctor before making any moves: it’s better to be safe than sorry! Cascara Sagrada Contraindications Cascara Sagrada Tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients suffering from appendicitis or ulcerative colitis. Also, if you are on blood thinners or anticoagulants, avoid taking a treatment based on Cascara Sagrada Tea. To gather more information, talk to an herbalist or to your doctor! If he gives you the green light and you happen to be in a teashop, add Cascara Sagrada Tea to your shopping cart and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... cascara sagrada tea - a powerful laxative

Onion (Allium cepa; cebollín = var. aggregata).

Plant Part Used: Bulb.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Bulb: raw, taken internally, for asthma, bronchitis, common cold, flu, upper respiratory tract infections.

Safety: Commonly consumed as food; generally considered safe; potentially irritating to stomach or skin if taken in large quantities.

Contraindications: None identified.

Drug Interactions: Platelet aggregation inhibitors (potentiated).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antiasthmatic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-artherosclerosis, antioxidant, anti-platelet aggregant, anti-tumor. In vitro: (oil, aqueous extract) antibacterial, antifungal.

* See entry for Cebolla in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cebolla

Horsetail (Equisetum species).

Plant Part Used: Leaf-stem.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves and stems: decoction, orally, for bladder, urinary tract or kidney infection, kidney stones, kidney ailments (general), infections (general), vaginal infections, menstrual cramps, to cleanse the blood and as a diuretic.

Safety: Considered safe when used appropriately; must be taken with plenty of water due to diuretic effect; high silica content may be toxic if plant is ingested.

Contraindications: Children, case of heart or kidney disorders.

Drug Interactions: Cardiac glycosides, digitalis (may enhance toxicity); thiamine (breaks down vitamin).

Clinical Data: Human clinical trials: diuretic (aqueous plant extract), metabolism effects and renal excretion (standardized extract).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: diuretic, anti-ulcer, gastroprotective, hypoglycemic (organic plant extracts).

In vitro: anti-platelet-aggregant, antimicrobial, contractile response enhancement, cytogenic, hepatoprotective, radical scavenging (plant extracts and constituents).

* See entry for Cola de caballo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cola de caballo

Centaury Tea has been known for centuries as a great medicinal remedy. It is said that Centaury plant is a very powerful diaphoretic, digestive, emetic, febrifuge, hepatic, homeopathic, poultice, stomachic, tonic and liver stimulator. Centaury is a plant from the gentian family which grows mainly in regions like Europe, Northern Africa and Eastern Australia. Also known as centaurium erythraea, this plant can easily be recognized by its triangular pale green leaves, pink flowers and yellowish anthers bloom. The fruit has the shape of a small oval capsule and it can only be harvested in the fall. Centaury Tea Properties Centaury has a bitter taste, which makes it a great ingredient for vermouth. Centaury Tea, however, is used by the alternative medicine for its great curative properties. The active constituents of Centaury Tea are: secoiridoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, triterpenes, xanthone derivatives and triterpenes, which can only be released in the presence of hot water or other heating sources. Xanthone derivatives are also used by the alcohol producers in order to obtain a variety of liquors (especially the bitter ones). Centaury Tea Benefits Aside from its use as a vermouth ingredient, Centaury Tea has other health benefits, being prescribed by practitioners around the world since ancient times. Centaury Tea may be helpful in case you’re suffering from one of the following conditions: - Blood poisoning, by eliminating the toxins and increasing the blood flow. - A number of digestive ailments, such as constipation and gastritis. - Anemia, by nourishing the nervous system and increasing the coronary system function. - Diabetes and liver failure, by reconstructing the liver cells and lowering your blood sugar. - Kidney failure, by treating nephritis and other ailments of the urinary system. - Centaury Tea may also be used to induce appetite when taken before meals. How to make Centaury Tea Infusion Preparing Centaury Tea infusion is very easy. Use a teaspoon of freshly-picked or dried Centaury herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 10 minutes for the health benefits to be released. Strain the decoction and drink it hot or cold. However, don’t drink more than 2 or 3 cups per day in order to avoid other health complications. Centaury Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Centaury Tea has no effects for adults. However, high dosages may lad to a number of ailments, such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. If you’ve been taking Centaury Tea for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual reactions, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! Centaury Tea Contraindications Don’t take Centaury Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, children and patients suffering from severe diseases that require blood thinners and anti-coagulants ingestion should avoid taking Centaury Tea at all costs! The same advice if you’re preparing for a major surgery (Centaury Tea may interfere with the anesthetic). In order to gather more information, talk to an herbalist or to your doctor. Once he gives you the green light, add Centaury Tea to your shopping cart and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea responsibly!... centaury tea - diabetes treatment

Contact lenses are lenses worn in contact with the EYE, behind the eyelids and in front of the cornea. They may be worn for cosmetic, optical or therapeutic reasons. The commonest reason for wear is cosmetic, many short-sighted people preferring to wear contact lenses instead of glasses. Optical reasons for contact-lens wear include cataract surgery (usually unilateral extraction) and the considerable improvement in overall standard of vision experienced by very short-sighted people when wearing contact lenses instead of glasses. Therapeutic lenses are those used in the treatment of eye disease: ‘bandage lenses’ are used in certain corneal diseases; contact lenses can be soaked in a particular drug and then put on the eye so that the drug slowly leaks out on to the eye. Contact lenses may be hard, soft or gas permeable. Hard lenses are more optically accurate (because they are rigid), cheaper and more durable than soft. The main advantage of soft lenses is that they are more comfortable to wear. Gas-permeable lenses are so-called because they are more permeable to oxygen than other lenses, thus allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea.

Disposable lenses are soft lenses designed to be thrown away after a short period of continuous use; their popularity rests on the fact that they need not be cleaned. The instructions on use should be followed carefully because the risk of complications, such as corneal infection, are higher than with other types of contact lenses.

Contraindications to the use of contact lenses include a history of ATOPY, ‘dry eyes’, previous GLAUCOMA surgery and a person’s inability to cope with the management of lenses. The best way to determine whether contact lenses are suitable, however, may be to try them out. Good hygiene is essential for wearers so as to minimise the risk of infection, which may lead to a corneal abscess – a serious complication. Corneal abrasions are fairly common and, if a contact-lens wearer develops a red eye, the lens should be removed and the eye tested with ?uorescein dye to identify any abrasions. Appropriate treatment should be given and the lens not worn again until the abrasion or infection has cleared up.... contact lenses

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, stem, aerial parts.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf, stem: decoction, orally, for diabetes, fever, stomach problems, menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, vaginal infection, excess vaginal discharge, sexually transmitted infection, menopausal hot flashes, cancer; fresh juice or decoction, poultice or wash, topically, for skin rash, measles, insect bites, itching and skin infection.

Safety: Shown to be relatively non-toxic for internal and external use in animal studies.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation, children < 3 years.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: anthelmintic (fresh fruit juice), antimicrobial (leaf and extracts).

* See entry for Cundeamor in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... cundeamor

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: fresh juice, orally, for liver conditions.

Safety: Leaves are widely consumed and generally considered safe; root and leaf: relatively nontoxic.

Contraindications: Root: digestive, biliary or gallbladder conditions, stomach inflammation, irritable bowel, digestive weakness, bowel obstruction (due to laxative, stomach acid stimulating& cholagogue effects);

Drug Interactions: Lithium (potential exacerbation of toxicity).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, bile flow stimulant (root extracts); diuretic, hypoglycemic (leaf water extract).

In vitro: anti-inflammatory in CNS, anti-tumor, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, nitric oxide production, insulin secretion (root or plant extract); antioxidant (flowers),

Nutritional: potassium.

* See entry for Diente de León in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... diente de león

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, essential oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: infusion or decoction, orally or inhaled vapor, for asthma, common cold, flu-like symptoms, congestion, cough and pulmonary infection.

Safety: Leaves considered safe for internal and external use if administered appropriately; essential oil is highly toxic if taken internally and may cause allergic reaction when administered topically; vapor inhalation may transmit fungal spores.

Contraindications: Young children and infants (inhalation or topical administration my lead to respiratory disorders); gastro-intestinal inflammatory conditions (internal use may irritate mucosa), history of allergy or hypersensitivity to eugenol (essential oil constituent).

Drug Interactions: Antidiabetic drugs (may potentiate effect), barbiturates (may decrease effect), pyrrolizidine-containing herbs (may exacerbate hepatotoxic effects).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-inflammatory, bronchitis treatment (essential oil).

In vitro: antibacterial, antioxidant (essential oil)

* See entry for Eucalipto in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... eucalipto

West Indian elm (Guazuma ulmifolia).

Plant Part Used: Root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: decoction, orally, for cough, common cold and flu symptoms. Bark: multi-herb decoction, orally, for menstrual disorders, fibroids, ovarian cysts, menopausal symptoms.

Safety: Leaf: considered safe when used appropriately; low toxicity of shown in animal and clinical studies. No information on safety of the bark.

Contraindications: No information on safety of leaf or bark in children and pregnant or lactating women.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antidiabetic, hypoglycemic (bark extracts).

In vitro: antibacterial, antiprotozoal and antioxidant (organic plant extracts); antisecretory (bark extract); enzyme inhibition (bark extracts).

* See entry for Guácima in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... guácima

Senna (Senna alata).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, flower.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: decoction, orally, for blood-cleansing, infection, diarrhea, parasites; topically as a wash for skin disease and paño.

Safety: Considered safe for therapeutic use when administered appropriately; relatively low toxicity shown in animal studies; avoid prolonged or excessive use.

Contraindications: Intestinal obstruction, gastro-intestinal inflammatory disease, anal prolapse, hemorrhoids, pregnancy, lactation, children < 12 y, abdominal pain or appendicitis of unknown origin.

Drug Interactions: Diuretics, cardiac glycosides.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: bovine dermatophilosis treatment (leaf extract).

In vitro: anti-inflammatory (leaf extract), antimicrobial (leaf and bark extracts), platelet aggregation inhibition (leaf constituent).

* See entry for Guajabo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... guajabo

Calabash (Crescentia cujete).

Plant Part Used: Fruit pulp.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Fruit pulp: added fresh to multi-herb preparations, taken internally for infections in general, vaginal infections, infertility, fibroids, cysts, menopausal symptoms, childbirth and post-partum recovery.

Safety: Signs of toxicity exhibited in birds and cattle.

Contraindications: Pregnancy; not to be used for ear infection if ear secretions or perforation of ear drum is evident.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: antimicrobial (leaf and stem ethanol extracts, fruit pulp).

In vivo: anti-inflammatory (hydroalcoholic leaf extract).

* See entry for Higüero in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... higüero

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare).

Plant Part Used: Seeds.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Seeds: decoction, orally, for digestive ailments, flatulence, stomach pain, pasmo, infant colic, inflammation, allergy, sinus infection and women’s health. Leaves: decoction, orally, for stomach ache, indigestion and gas.

Safety: Widely consumed and considered safe; caution advised if used in anise tea: seeds are often combined with anís de estrella which may be adulterated by poisonous look-alike.

Contraindications: Essential oil: epileptics, young children, pregnancy; herb considered safe for children and pregnant women.

Clinical Data: Human clinical trial: infant colic treatment (seed extract and essential oil emulsion).

* See entry for Hinojo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... hinojo

The newborn infant may be fed naturally from the breast, or arti?cially from a bottle.

Breast feeding Unless there is a genuine contraindication, every baby should be breast fed. The nutritional components of human milk are in the ideal proportions to promote the healthy growth of the human newborn. The mother’s milk, especially colostrum (the ?uid secreted before full lactation is established) contains immune cells and antibodies that increase the baby’s resistance to infection. From the mother’s point of view, breast feeding helps the womb to return to its normal size and helps her to lose excess body fat gained during pregnancy. Most importantly, breast feeding promotes intimate contact between mother and baby. A ?nal point to be borne in mind, however, is that drugs taken by a mother can be excreted in her milk. These include antibiotics, sedatives, tranquillisers, alcohol, nicotine and high-dose steroids or vitamins. Fortunately this is rarely a cause of trouble. (See also main entry on BREAST FEEDING.)

Arti?cial feeding Unmodi?ed cows’ milk is not a satisfactory food for the human newborn and may cause dangerous metabolic imbalance. If breast feeding is not feasible, one of the many commerciallly available formula milks should be used. Most of these are made from cows’ milk which has been modi?ed to re?ect the composition of human milk as closely as possible. For the rare infant who develops cows’-milk-protein intolerance, a milk based on soya-bean protein is indicated.

Feeding and weight gain The main guide as to whether an infant is being adequately fed is the weight. During the ?rst days of life a healthy infant loses weight, but should by the end of the second week return to birth weight. From then on, weight gain should be approximately 6oz. (170g) each week.

The timing of feeds reffects social convention rather than natural feeding patterns. Among the most primitive hunter-gatherer tribes of South America, babies are carried next to the breast and allowed to suckle at will. Fortunately for developed society, however, babies can be conditioned to intermittent feedings.

As the timing of breast feeding is ?exible – little or no preparation time being required – mothers can choose to feed their babies on demand. Far from spoiling the baby, demand feeding is likely to lead to a contented infant, the only necessary caution being that a crying baby is not always a hungry baby.

In general, a newborn will require feeding every two to four hours and, if well, is unlikely to sleep for more than six hours. After the ?rst months, a few lucky parents will ?nd their infant sleeping through the night.

Weaning Weaning on to solid foods is again a matter of individuality. Most babies will become dissatis?ed with a milk-only diet at around six months and develop enthusiasm for cereal-based weaning foods. Also at about this time they enjoy holding objects and transferring them to their mouths – the mouth being an important sense organ in infants. It is logical to include food items that they can hold, as this clearly brings the baby pleasure at this time. Introduction of solids before the age of four months is unusual and best avoided. The usual reason given for early weaning is that the baby appears hungry, but this is unlikely to be the case; crying due to COLIC, for example, is more probable. Some mothers take the baby’s desire to suck – say, on their ?nger – as a sign of hunger when this is, in fact, re?ex activity.

Delaying the start of weaning beyond nine months is nutritionally undesirable. As weaning progresses, the infant’s diet requires less milk. Once established on a varied solid diet, breast and formula milks can be safely replaced with cows’ milk. There is, however, no nutritional contraindication to continued breast feeding until the mother wishes to stop.

It is during weaning that infants realise they can arouse extreme maternal anxiety by refusing to eat. This can lead to force-feeding and battles of will which may culminate in a breakdown of the mother-child relationship. To avoid this, parents must resist the temptation to coax the child to eat. If the child refuses solid food, the meal should be taken away with a minimum of fuss. Children’s appetites re?ect their individual genetic structure and a well child will eat enough to grow and maintain satisfactory weight gain. If a child is not eating properly, weight gain will be inadequate over a prolonged period and an underlying illness is the most likely cause. Indeed, failure to thrive is the paediatrician’s best clue to chronic illness.

Advice on feeding Many sources of con?icting advice are available to new parents. It is impossible to satisfy everyone, and ultimately it is the well-being of the mother and infant and the closeness of their relationship that matter. In general, mothers should be wary of rigid advice. An experienced midwife, health visitor or well-baby-clinic nursing sister are among the most reliable sources of information.

Protein Fat per Sugar Calories per cent cent per cent per cent

Human milk 1·1 4·2 7·0 70 Cows’ milk 3·5 3·9 4·6 66

Composition of human and cows’ milk... infant feeding

Papaya (Carica papaya).

Plant Part Used: Fruit (ripe and unripe), papain enzymes.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Fruit: eaten for digestive ailments, flatulence, stomachache, intestinal pain, heartburn, heart disease, hypertension, menopausal hot flashes, urinary tract infection, skin infection.

Safety: Ripe fruit is widely consumed and generally considered safe; topical application of the unripe fruit did not show toxicity in rabbits; other plant preparations have shown mixed results in animal toxicity studies.

Contraindications: Pregnancy and lactation (unripe fruit and papain); children under 12 years (due to lack of clinical data); history of hypersensitivity to fruit.

Drug Interactions: Warfarin (w/papain may cause excessive bleeding).

Clinical Data: Human clinical trials: guinea worm infection (leaves), immunomodulation (papain enzymes), burn wound-healing (fruit).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: abortifacient (unripe fruit constituents), anthelmintic (latex), antifertility—inhibits sperm motility (seed extract), antihypertensive (unripe fruit ethanolic extract); anti-ulcer (unripe fruit latex); diuretic (root); reversible azoospermia (seed extract).

In vitro: antiamoebic (seed extract), antihypertensive (unripe fruit ethanolic extract), antimicrobial, antioxidant (unripe fruit and seed), anti-salmonella (leaf and root extracts), immunomodulatory, immunostimulatory (seed extract), uterine stimulatory (fruit latex extract).

* See entry for Lechosa in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... lechosa

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, stalk.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf/stalk: infusion, orally, for asthma, common cold, flu-symptoms, stomach ailments, indigestion, gastro-intestinal pain, diarrhea (in children), menopausal hot flashes, arthritis, internal bruising and musculoskeletal injury.

Safety: This plant is nontoxic according to clinical studies; the essential oil potential may cause allergic reaction to skin or lung irritation if inhaled.

Contraindications: Pregnancy.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, lowered heart rate (leaf infusion, essential oil); antinociceptive (essential oil); chemopreventive, inhibition of hepatocarcinogenesis (leaf extract); hypocholesterolemic (leaves).

In vitro: antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, polyphenol oxidase inhibition (essential oil or constituents); enzyme inhibition, vasorelaxant (leaf/stalk extract).

* See entry for Limoncillo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... limoncillo

Agave, tequila plant (Agave species).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, husk/bark, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: tea, orally, for stomach ache, ulcers; fresh juice added to mixture for asthma, lung infection; applied externally for headache, sprains and muscle strain; alcohol tincture for sexually transmitted infections; decoction, douche for vaginal infection. Bark/husk: decoction, orally for arthritis, joint pain and to cleanse the blood; multi-herb internal mixture for cysts, fibroids, tumors.

Safety: Little data on toxicity; contact dermatitis reported due to oxalate crystals in leaves.

Contraindications: Pregnancy.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-inflammatory (plant extract).

In vitro: inhibition of cell division and capillary permeability (plant extracts and constituents).

* See entry for Maguey in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... maguey

Allspice (Pimenta dioica).

Plant Part Used: Unripe, dried fruit (“seeds”).

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Seeds: tea (decoction), orally for diabetes, depression, lack of energy, menstrual disorders, internal cleansing, post-partum depression, gastro-intestinal ailments, nausea, stress, anxiety, sinus infection, allergy and respiratory infection.

Safety: Widely used as a culinary spice, generally considered safe; low toxicity shown in animal studies.

Contraindications: No information available on use in children or during pregnancy or lactation.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-hemorrhage due to snake venom (organic plant extract).

In vitro: antioxidant (seed/berry constituents).

* See entry for Malagueta in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... malagueta

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita & Chamaemelum nobile).

Plant Part Used: Flower.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Flowers: decoction/infusion, orally, for anxiety, nervousness, stress, insomnia (adults and children), menstrual cramps, post-partum recovery, childbirth and regulating blood pressure.

Safety: Considered safe for internal use; slight potential for hypersensitivity, especially in patients with a history of allergic reaction to Aster species.

Contraindications: Pregnancy: oral administration of whole plant extract at high doses may have emmenagogue effects; however, flower extracts have not shown this effect.

Clinical Data: Clinical case report: mouthwash for oral mucositis (plant extract).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antipruritic, antiulcerogenic (plant extract); anxiolytic (constituents); hypoglycemic (aerial parts of Chamaemelum nobile).

In vitro: antifungal (plant extracts).

* See entry for Manzanilla in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... manzanilla

One of the ANTIMETABOLITES used to treat certain forms of malignant disease. Acting to inhibit the ENZYME dihydrofolate reductase, which is essential for purine and pyrimidine synthesis, it is given orally, intravenously, intramuscularly or intrathecally. Methotrexate is used as maintenance therapy for childhood acute lymphoblastic LEUKAEMIA, while other uses include CHORIOCARCINOMA, nonHodgkin’s LYMPHOMA, and various solid tumours. Intrathecally, it is used in the prophylaxis of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, and as treatment for established meningeal cancer or lymphoma.

Side-effects include suppression of myelocytes in bone marrow, in?ammation of mucous membranes, and, rarely, PNEUMONITIS. It should be avoided whenever signi?cant renal impairment is present, while signi?cant pleural e?usion or ascites is also a contraindication. Blood counts should be carefully monitored whenever intrathecal methotrexate is given. Oral or parenteral folinic acid helps to prevent, or to speed recovery from, myelosuppression or mucositis.

Methotrexate is used in dermatology, where it may be indicated for cases of severe uncontrolled PSORIASIS unresponsive to conventional therapy; it may also be indicated for severe active RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. Because of its potentially severe haematological, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and other toxicities it should be used only by specialists and appropriate renal and liver function tests carried out before and during treatment. It should be avoided in pregnancy, and conception should be avoided for at least six months after stopping, as should breast feeding. Concurrent administration of aspirin or other NONSTEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) reduces methotrexate excretion, increasing its toxicity, and should therefore be avoided whenever possible.... methotrexate

Oregano (Origanum vulgare).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, stem, aerial parts.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: decoction, orally, for indigestion, stomach complaints, gastro-intestinal inflammation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, pasmo, gas, pelvic pain, padrejón; poultice or oil, topically, for sinus infection, allergies, nasal congestion and common cold.

Safety: Therapeutic use generally considered safe.

Contraindications: Pregnancy: avoid excess internal use.

Clinical Data: Human clinical trial: antiparasitic (essential oil).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vitro: anticancer (constituent), antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant (essential oil and constituents).

* See entry for Orégano de comer in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... orégano de comer

Pineapple (Ananas comosus).

Plant Part Used: Fruit, fruit rind.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Fruit: juice, taken orally as a diuretic for urinary tract or kidney disorders, cleansing the body internally, for treating bacterial infection, cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, menopausal hot flashes; fruit rind: fermented in sugar and water for internally cleansing and refreshing the body.

Safety: Commonly consumed as food; relatively nontoxic; repeated exposure can cause hypersensitivity.

Contraindications: Caution advised during pregnancy due to possible abortifacient effects of plant steroids.

Drug Interactions: For bromelain (protease enzymes from stem): antibiotics, tetracyclines (elevated drug serum levels), anticoagulants and thrombocyte aggregation inhibitors (increased bleeding).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antidiabetic, antioxidant, antidyslipidemic (ethanolic leaf extract); antifertility (unripe fruit juice); burn debridement (bromelain—stem enzymes); diuretic (root extract).

In vitro: antitumor (bromelain—stem enzymes).

* See entry for Piña in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... piña

This was introduced in 1936 by Egas Moniz, Professor of Medicine in Lisbon University, for the surgical treatment of certain psychoses (see PSYCHOSIS). For his work in this ?eld he shared the Nobel prize in 1949. The original operation, known as leucotomy, consisted of cutting white ?bres in the frontal lobe of the BRAIN. It was accompanied by certain hazards such as persistent EPILEPSY and undesirable changes in personality; pre-frontal leucotomy is now regarded as obsolete. Modern stereotactic surgery may be indicated in certain intractable psychiatric illnesses in which the patient is chronically incapacitated, especially where there is a high suicide risk. Patients are only considered for psychosurgery when they have failed to respond to routine therapies. One contraindication is marked histrionic or antisocial personality. The conditions in which a favour-able response has been obtained are intractable and chronic obsessional neuroses (see NEUROSIS), anxiety states and severe chronic DEPRESSION.

Psychosurgery is now rare in Britain. The Mental Health Act 1983 requires not only consent by the patient – con?rmed by an independent doctor, and two other representatives of the Mental Health Act Commission – but also that the Commission’s appointed medical representative also advise on the likelihood of the treatment alleviating or preventing a deterioration in the patient’s condition.... psychosurgery

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea variety capitata).

Plant Part Used: Leaves (cabbage head), juice from leaves.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: eaten raw, juiced, cooked, as a soup, taken internally for treating obesity, diabetes, heart disease, gynecological conditions (uterine fibroids), intestinal parasites or for nutrition; fresh leaves used externally for wound-healing.

Safety: Considered safe; widely consumed; shown to be nontoxic in animal studies.

Contraindications: Thyroid conditions (may interfere with thyroid iodine absorption).

Drug Interactions: Prothrombopenic anticoagulants (may be antagonized); hypothyroid drugs (may interfere).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antitumor, antiulcer (plant extracts).

Nutrition: calcium, vitamins K and U.

* See entry for Repollo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... repollo

An antibiotic derived from Streptomyces mediterranei, rifampicin is a key component of the treatment of TUBERCULOSIS. Like ISONIAZID, it should always be included unless there is a speci?c contraindication. It is also valuable in the treatment of BRUCELLOSIS, LEGIONNAIRE’S DISEASE, serious staphylococcal (see STAPHYLOCOCCUS) infections and LEPROSY. It is also given to contacts of certain forms of childhood MENINGITIS.

Rifampicin is given by mouth; during the ?rst two months it often causes transient disturbance of LIVER function, with raised concentrations of serum transaminases, but usually treatment need not be interrupted. In patients with pre-existing liver disease more severe toxicity may occur, and liver function should be carefully monitored both before starting and during rifampicin treatment. It induces hepatic enzymes which accelerate the metabolism of various drugs including ANTICOAGULANTS, SULPHONYLUREAS, PHENYTOIN SODIUM, CORTICOSTEROIDS and OESTROGENS. The e?ectiveness of oral contraceptives is reduced and alternative family-planning advice should be o?ered.

Rifampicin should be avoided during pregnancy and breast feeding, and extra caution should be applied if there is renal impairment, JAUNDICE or PORPHYRIAS. Adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms, in?uenza-like symptoms, collapse and SHOCK, haemolytic ANAEMIA, acute ?ushing and URTICARIA; body secretions may be coloured red.... rifampicin

Aloe, aloe vera (Aloe vera).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, leaf gel.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf gel: applied topically for skin conditions: minor abrasions, burns, cuts, fungal infection, scrapes, sunburn, wound-healing; taken orally for common cold, flu-like symptoms, pulmonary infection.

Safety: Results of toxicity studies and published literature.

Contraindications: Internal use: pregnancy, lactation, children under 12 y, individuals with inflammatory intestinal disease.

Drug Interactions: Internal use: cardiac glycosides, antiarrhythmic drugs (potential potassium loss and intensified drug effect); thiazide diuretics, loop diuretics, licorice, corticosteroids (risk of potassium loss); antidiabetic drugs: (risk of hypoglycemia).

Clinical Data: Clinical: anesthetic, antiviral, burn-healing, wound-healing (leaf gel).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, chemomodulatory, hypothyroid, wound-healing (leaf pulp/gel).

In vitro: antileukemic, antimutagenic, antitumor, cytotoxic, enzyme inhibition (chemical constituents).

* See entry for Sábila in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... sábila

Shatavari tea is the main remedy if you suffer from sexual problems. Some say that Shatavari is the most important herb in Ayurvedic medicine. For centuries, the Indians used its roots and rhizomes to treat and even cure some of the most important health problems. Shatavari is a plant with sharp and shiny leaves, white flowers and dark fruits that grows in the rocky areas of the high plains in India, but also in the Himalayan region. Shatavari tea properties Shatavari means “a woman who has a hundred husbands ” because it is well known that this plant is used to treat the female reproductive system and not only: it can also be used for men’s wellness (combined with ashwagandha, makes a great male reproductive treatment and a very good sexual endurance enhancer). Also, the sweet roots of Shatavari could very well replace any meal , turning this particular herb into a “superfood” for women. And let’s not forget the fact that it is also a good remedy for stress, a well-known antioxidant and a great help when it comes to anti-aging solutions.  Treatments- Shatavari tea benefits Shatavari tea is useful for chronic fever and dehydration, ulcers and gastritis, dysentery and diarrhea, infertility, it helps fighting heart problems and calming the nerves. The good news is that you can take it even if you’re pregnant. In fact, Shatavari is a very good galactologue, so it actually helps with lactation (but do not drink too much or it will quickly cause leaking). Also, Shatavari tea helps with menstrual and menopausal problems and strengthens the female reproductive system. How to make Shatavari Infusion First thing you need to do is make sure the roots and rhizomes you’re about to use are clean and very dry. Simmer them in hot water for 15 minutes. For better results, wait another 15 minutes for the wellness benefits of Shatavari tea to be infused and you’ve got your own medicine cabinet in a pot. Take the Shatavari tea once or twice a day. Shatavari tea side effects If you’re sensitive to asparagus, you’ll be sensitive to Shatavari tea as well so it is better to avoid it. The same advice goes for patients with edema due to kidney disorder or impaired heart function. Another aspect you should really keep an eye on is your weight: a well balanced diet will prevent you from gaining weight while taking the tea. Shatavari tea- Contraindications Do not take Shatavari tea in case you have massive fibrocystic breasts or estrogen induced problems. To make sure everything will be fine, talk to your doctor before starting the treatment. It’s not hard to imagine why the Indians named this plant the most important herb of the Ayurvedic medicine: great benefits, few side effects. So, if you are looking for something to boost your energy and health really fast, look for Shatavari tea next time you’re in a tea shop.... shatavari tea benefits

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, branches.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaves: infusion, orally, for digestive and gastro-intestinal disorders, cough, upper-respiratory tract infection; bath, externally, for skin conditions.

Safety: Widely consumed as a culinary seasoning; generally considered safe; potential for allergic reaction.

Contraindications: Acute urinary tract or gastro-intestinal inflammation: avoid internal use of herb. Severe skin conditions or injuries, high fevers and heart conditions: avoid whole-body baths.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: antioxidant (essential oil), liver enzyme activity (leaf constituents).

In vitro: antibacterial (essential oil, plant extracts), antifungal (essential oil), anti-inflammatory (plant extracts), antioxidant (leaf extract), anti-platelet aggregant (leaf constituents), antiprotozoal (essential oil), antispasmodic (plant and ethanol extract), spasmolytic (flavonoids).

* See entry for Tomillo in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... tomillo

Turmeric Tea has been known for centuries thanks to its popularization done by the Ayurvedic medicine. The main field where this tea has the greatest effects is the anti-inflammatory one. Turmeric is a perennial plant originally from India, but which can be found almost everywhere around the globe, where it’s used as a health adjuvant. Turmeric grows up to 1 meter tall (3 feet) and it has green lance-shaped leaves that hide the stamina in, during the hot season. The roots of this herb resemble to a rhizome and can easily be confused with ginger. Turmeric Tea Properties The anti-inflammatory property of Turmeric Tea is due to an active ingredient called curcumin, which is actually a group of very strong antioxidants. Also, curcumin is the substance that makes Indian food and the tea, as well, look yellow. It is important to know that this group of antioxidants prevents and treats inflammations by inhibiting all infection triggers and by cleansing the affected areas. Turmeric Tea Benefits Aside from its anti-inflammatory properties, Turmeric Tea is a great remedy in case you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Joint and bone pains (in order to treat these affections, you can either drink the tea or topically apply the smashed Turmeric leaves). - Skin conditions, such as acne. Turmeric Tea (applied on the spot or drank) can also heal the scars of bad acne. - Arthritis, tendonitis or bursitis, by calming the pain and making your coronary walls much more elastic. - Cholesterol, gallstones and other digestive track problem. - Alzheimer, gingivitis, upset stomach, bad breath and other conditions that may weaken your general well-being. How to make Turmeric Tea Infusion In order to make Turmeric Tea infusion, you need to follow these steps: properly wash the parts that you are about to use (leaves or rhizome), put them in a teapot and add water. Boil for 8 or 10 minutes and let it infuse for another 5 minutes. You can add a small amount of ginger or honey if you feel that the taste is too strong. Don’t drink more than 3 cups per day. Turmeric Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Turmeric Tea has no side effects at all. However, a high dosage may cause irritations of the stomach and hallucinations. It’s best to ask for specialized help before starting a treatment based on Turmeric Tea. Turmeric Tea Contraindications Do not take Turmeric Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may cause uterine contractions and irritated stomach. The same advice if you are on blood thinners. If you have already taken it and were not aware of this, talk to a doctor immediately! It’s better to be safe than sorry. If your doctor gives you his approval, buy Turmeric Tea from a trusted provider and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this well-known Ayurvedic herb!... turmeric tea acne treatment

For many years, the uses of Soapwort tea only involved laundry cleaning. According to today’s herbalists, it’s not the case anymore. Soapwort is a plant that grows in Europe, North America and Asia. You can easily recognize it by its pink flowers and green leaves. This is a perennial plant, whose aerial parts are picked during the summer, while the roots can only be harvested in the fall. Ancient Greeks used this herb to clean their laundry, making it a very good natural detergent, but the benefits of Soapwort plant consist mainly of its medical use. Properties of Soapwort Tea You can use Soapwort tea for external use, but some say that a diet based on this plant can be a great treatment for your health. Soapwort is a strong purgative and vomit inducer (not to mention that it tastes like a soap), so it’s up to you if you’re going to drink it or not. Also, you need to decide if you’re using the aerial parts or the roots. If the first ones are excellent in case of severe diarrhea, the roots of Soapwort plant are a bit stronger and may have a negative effect on you and your health. Soapwort Tea Benefits You can use Soapwort Tea in case you have a mild skin condition, such as irritation or eczema, but you can also use the boiled solution as a natural shampoo. Herbalists say that Soapwort tea can clean your hair better than any cosmetic product, since it doesn’t have any chemical ingredients. All you have to do is poor it on your hair and leave it in for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how long your hair is. Soapwort tea is a great gout and rheumatism cure: drink a cup of tea every day and you’ll feel a lot better because of the anti-inflammatory properties that this plant has. If you suffer from arthritis, add Soapwort plant to your shopping list for the same reason. How to make Soapwort Infusion Soapwort tea infusion is more of a boiled solution that you can keep in a jar for a very long time (in your refrigerator), since it has the same benefits both cold and hot. What you need to do is make sure the parts you are about to use are clean (you don’t want any bacteria to interfere with your treatment). Then, you boil the ingredients for 15-30 minutes: 15 minutes if you’re using Soapwort powder and 30 minutes if you’re using the dry roots. Soapwort Tea side effects If you are using Soapwort tea internally, make sure you are supervised by a qualified herbalist, because it can cause stomach pain and other digestive track problems, such as ulcers and gastritis. It’s best to think of Soapwort plant as of any other detergent, so if drinking a detergent solution sounds bad, you should probably think again about drinking Soapwort tea. Although the benefits of this plant are great, make sure you are well-informed before starting an internal treatment and ask for help from advised personnel only. Soapwort Tea Contraindications Do not take Soapwort tea if you are already suffering from gastric problems, laryngitis and other throat conditions. Soapwort tea is basically used topically because of its corrosive property. However, if you are in a good shape and you’ve got the green light from your doctor concerning an internal treatment, go for it: the benefits are great! So, if you want your hair to be healthy and shiny in a natural way, don’t forget to give Soapwort tea a try next time you are looking for a good shampoo!... soapwort tea benefits

Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa).

Plant Part Used: Inner bark, stem, root.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Bark, root, stem: infusion or multi-herb tincture, orally, for arthritis, cancer, diabetes, kidney disorders, leukemia, obesity and women’s health.

Safety: No toxicity shown in clinical and animal studies; long-term use may affect hormone levels.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation; autoimmune disorders or implanted organs (immune stimulating properties).

Drug Interactions: Anticoagulants, antiplatelet and thrombolytic agents and low molecular weight heparins (potential risk of excessive bleeding); immunosuppressants (may interfere with drug); P450 3A4-metabolyzed drugs (potential inhibition).

Clinical Data: Clinical: DNA repair, immune enhancement, immunostimulant, rheumatoid arthritis treatment (bark extract).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-amnesic (alkaloids), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic, antinociceptive, DNA repair, immune enhancement, immunomodulatory (plant extracts).

In vitro: anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral, cytoprotective, immunomodulatory (bark or leaf extracts).

* See entry for Uña de gato in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... uña de gato

Solomon’s Seal Tea is a very good remedy when it comes to heart problems and not only. Solomon’s Seal plant is a medicinal herb well known for its healing properties that can easily be recognized by its long green leaves and pale yellow flowers. You are probably more familiar to its cultivated cousin, Lily of the Valley. Solomon’s Seal plant has a large variety of types and it can be found in North America, Northern Europe and Siberia and it can be grown by division or by seeds. Solomon’s Seal was named after King Solomon the Hebrew, who was granted a lot of wisdom from God. According to herbal lore, Solomon put his royal seal on this plant’s leaves after recognizing its great benefits. Solomon’s Seal Tea Properties Solomon’s Seal tea is best known for its therapeutic use. You can make a tonic out of it, a hot tea or a tincture. All you need to do is find the use that bits you best and go for it! But make sure you do not eat or even touch the fruits, the leaves or the stems: they are poisonous ! The main substances of Solomon’s Seal tea are vitamins, saponins (similar to diosgenin), flavonoids. A solution made of roost or rhizomes is used in alternative medicine as an astringent, demulcent, and tonic. The dried roots are a great laxative and restorative, and is does wonders when it comes to inflammations of the stomach, indigestion, profuse menstruation, piles, general debility, bowels and chronic dysentery. You can also apply Solomon’s Seal roots on open cuts or eczema. Solomon’s Seal Tea Benefits Solomon’s Seal tea is useful for a lot of things and it has proven its medical and culinary utility in time. Ladies will find this plant very interesting and nevertheless important: a decoction made of Solomon’s Seal can be used as an excellent face rinse (think of it as a natural makeup remover or an organic face treatment). Solomon’s Seal tea is also a good remedy when it comes to kidney problems, heart conditions and nevertheless sexual problems. A solution of Solomon’s Seal can be used in case of internal bleeding, indigestion and other stomach and digestive system complaints. Let’s not forget that oil infused with Solomon’s Seal tea should always be kept in the medical cabinet: is great for broken bones or strains, torn ligaments and joint problems. How to make Solomon’s Seal Tea Infusion Solomon’s Seal tea can only be made from this herb’s rhizomes. What you need to do is take the roots and boil them for 15-20 minutes (depending on how dry they are). If they are freshly harvested, 10 minutes should do the trick. Put the solution in a bottle and drink it whenever you feel like it, but not more that 2 cups per day. Drinking too much Solomon’s Seal tea can cause diarrhea and other stomach problems. Solomon’s Seal Tea Side Effects Solomon’s Seal tea has few side effects. However, a high dosage may cause aching finger joints or heart burn. If any of that happened to you, see a doctor as soon as possible! Solomon’s Seal Tea- Contraindications Do not take Solomon’s Seal tea if you are suffering from diarrhea or other digestive track conditions, such as ulcer. It may cause serious damage to you and your body. Before starting any type of diet or treatment that involves Solomon’s Seal tea, see a doctor first. The benefits of Solomon’s Seal tea are many. Next time you’re looking for a natural treatment, add Solomon’s Seal Tea to your shopping list and just give it a try!... solomon`s seal tea health benefits

For thousands of years, White Oak Tea has been a great homeopathic remedy. White Oak is a tree found mostly in Northern America, from Quebec to Texas. It usually reaches 100 feet height, it has a grey trunk and deep green wavy leaves. White Oak Tea’s main use involves general heath and treating localized pain, such as inflammations and sore throat. White Oak Tea Properties White Oak Tea is well known for both its external and internal use. The active ingredients of this tea are tannins, resins, calcium oxalate, quillaic acid and starch. Some of these substances can also be found in the trunk and branches, but extracting them from these parts is not an easy job. Thanks to its endurance and its unique wood color, White Oak has also a good reputation among craftsmen. White Oak Tea Benefits Aside from improving your general health, White Oak Tea can also come in hand in case of many other diseases. The most popular uses of this tea are: - White Oak can successfully be used to treat kidney stones - Thanks to its active ingredients, White Oak Tea is a great remedy for inflammation - White Oak Tea can treat diarrhea and flush hemorrhoids out of your systems - If you suffer from gout or dysentery, White Oak Tea can bring relief to your body - White Oak Tea treats gingivitis, stops hemorrhages and prevents your gums from swelling. How to make White Oak Tea Infusion When preparing White Oak Tea, you can either use dry powder from the specialized shops or the freshly picked leaves. The only difference is that the powder may have a stronger taste thanks to its higher acids concentration. Use a teaspoon of powder or leaves for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 10 minutes, if you’re using powder, or 15 minutes, if you’re using leaves. You can drink it hot or cold. If you’re keeping it in the refrigerator, make a new bottle of tea every 3 or 4 days. White Oak Tea Side Effects Taken properly, White Oak Tea has no side effects. A high dosage may cause deviations of the nervous system and other conditions. If you’ve taken it for a while and are experiencing some unusual episodes, talk to a doctor as soon as possible. White Oak Tea Contraindications White Oak Tea may interfere with birth control pills and cause internal bleedings. Also, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take White Oak Tea. The same advice if you’re suffering from severe kidney problems or chronic heart diseases. However, if you’re suffering from one of these conditions and are still determined to start a White Oak Tea treatment, talk to your doctor and find out what is the best solution for you and your health. If you feel confident and your doctor gives you the green light, add White Oak Tea to your medicine cabinet and enjoy responsibly the wonderful benefits of this tea!... white oak tea - gingivitis treatment

Speedwell Tea is and it has been for centuries used mainly for its soothing effects. Speedwell is a perennial herb that grows mostly in Europe. The French people used it in the 19th century as a very good replacement for ordinary tea, because of its bitter and astringent flavor. Nowadays, Speedwell Tea is used to calm any skin irritation, throat ache or cough. Speedwell Tea Properties Speedwell Tea is a great remedy for almost any health condition that involves inflammation or localized pain. You can use it as a supplementary aid or as a main treatment as well. There are many types of Speedwell Tea solutions, such as infusions, tonics or tinctures. Also, pressing the smashed plant on a open cut will calm your pain and bring relief if you are suffering from irritated skin. You can benefit from this plant’s wonders at home, preparing the tea by yourself or buy it from the tea shop. However, if you are thinking about making it at home, pay attention to our advice on How to prepare Speedwell Tea. Speedwell Tea Benefits Speedwell Tea has been used for many years as a panacea for almost any health problems. Its main use was in treating gall stones and colds. In our times, alternative medicine found new and excited benefits of Speedwell Tea in treating light-headedness, damaged hearing, sinusitis and ear infections. Also, if you are suffering from nephritic problems, skin ailments, hemorrhages or have a small opened wound, Speedwell Tea may come in hand. The leaves and roots of speedwell are astringent, gently diuretic, stomachic, slightly expectorant and stimulant. Lately, herbalists around the world announced the benefits that Speedwell Tea offers when treating ulcers or blockages of the respiratory system. How to make Speedwell Tea Infusion When making Speedwell Tea infusion, you need to pay attention to a couple of things. First of all, you need to decide if you are using Speedwell powder, freshly picked Speedwell plants or dry roots. Put the ingredients in a pot of boiled water and wait for the benefits of Speedwell Tea to be released. If you are using powder, wait only 10 minutes. For dry roots or fresh plants, 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the amount of water used. For better results and a more concentrated solution, wait another 15 minutes. You can drink it or use it on your affected area. Also, you can use the powder directly on an open cut or wound. Speedwell Tea Side Effects Speedwell Tea has almost no side effects at all. Just make sure you don’t drink more than 3 cups a day or you’ll get diarrhea and also experience vomiting sensations. Other than that, go for it! Speedwell Tea Contraindications Don’t take Speedwell Tea if you are already suffering from diarrhea or have vomiting episodes. Also, if you have a dry throat, this tea may not be the best idea for you. However, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned before and are still thinking about taking Speedwell Tea, talk to a specialist before boiling the water. Judging by this tea’s popularity and the great reviews that people around the world gave, it’s fair to say that Speedwell tea should have its own place in your list of herbal remedies. If you have on open cut and are tired of your medicine cabinet, add Speedwell Tea to your shopping cart next time you’re shopping for natural treatments!... speedwell tea organic health 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

Spikenard Tea is the best solution if you are suffering from asthma, coughs or headaches. Spikenard is a perennial bush with large, green leaves, red berries and greenish white flowers. It grows mainly on the American continent and it’s been used for medical purposes since the 15th century, when the Native Americans used it to treat childbirth pains or coughs. Spikenard Tea can also be turned into a very consistent balm to treat bone fractures, wounds and cuts. Spikenard Tea Properties Spikenard Tea has anti-inflammatory properties, so it’s an excellent remedy for topical pains, such as localized irritations or earache. It’s versatility towards any type of health condition makes Spikenard one of the most important herbs in the Native American alternative medicine. Spikenard Tea is rich in tannis, volatile oil and diterpene acids, which help your system restore its health and vitality. Spikenard Tea Benefits Spikenard Tea contains depurative and anti-septic substances, often being used to clean and sanitize the blood. However, its action areas are many: headaches, asthma, cough, gas, pains, deafness, gout, syphilis. Also, Spikenard Tea is a great tonic that can really work miracles in case you need to induce sweating. A decoction made of Spikenard can bring relief to menstrual pains, burn injuries and backaches. If you suffer from tuberculosis, a cup of Spikenard Tea every day can really make a difference. It’s also good for detoxifying your body, and a compress of Spikenard Tea, applied on an eczema, will calm down the pain and make the irritation disappear. In North America, Spikenard Tea has also a culinary use: people make jelly out of it, which, if you think about it, it’s not a bad idea at all! Who wouldn’t want a jar of jelly that can bring joy both to your tongue and your general health? How to make Spikenard Tea Infusion Preparing Spikenard Tea is very easy. Take a handful of spikenard roots and add it to the boiling water in the teapot and let it infuse for about 5 minutes. For more energy and better results, wait for another 5 minutes and drink it sugar free. You can drink it hot or keep it in your refrigerator for not more than a week. In time, the tea loses its curative properties and health benefits. It is better to prepare a new bottle of tea every 3 or 4 days. Spikenard Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Spikenard Tea has no side effects. However, make sure you are not allergic to any of its ingredients and don’t drink more than 4 cups a day. Spikenard Tea is a medicinal treatment and it can’t replace coffee, unlike other teas, such as spearmint tea. Spikenard Tea Contraindications Don’t take Spikenard Tea if you are pregnant and it’s best to avoid it if you are breast-feeding. If you are pregnant and still thinking about taking it, talk to your doctor first. Other than that, there’s no reason not to add Spikenard tea to your herbal treatments cabinet. Follow the instructions and enjoy the great benefits of this tea!... spikenard tea great benefits

Tansy Tea is a very good and natural vermifuge, used mainly to treat children. Tansy is a perennial plant, with long narrow leaves and bright yellow flowers. Originally from Asia, Tansy is now grown all over the world and used for medical purposes, even if physicians all over the world are being reticent when it comes to recommending it to patients. For a very large amount of time, Tansy Tea was used in order to induce miscarriage and many women died drinking too much of it. Tansy Tea Properties The main substances of Tansy Tea (tanacetin, volatile oil, tannic acid, parthenolides)are toxic in large quantities, so if you’re thinking about starting a treatment based on Tansy Tea it’s best to keep track of how much you drink per day. The parts that can be used for medical purposes are the leaves and the flowering tops and you can either make a tea out of them or use the leaves freshly picked. Tansy Tea Benefits Although the main use of the Tansy Tea was to treat worms in children, the modern applications of the alternative medicine point towards using it as a cooking ingredient that can be added in small amounts to a variety of salads and omelets, thanks to its cinnamon-like taste. Tansy Tea can also be used as a natural cosmetic product able to lighten skin and decolorize the unwanted sunspots. Today, the medical uses of the Tansy Tea have been loudly discredited, although you can still find it on markets and it’s legal to grow it in your own yard. However, it’s safe and actually indicated that you use Tansy in order to keep your vegetables pest-free rather than buy some random chemical repellent. How to make Tansy Tea Infusion When preparing Tansy Tea Infusion, you need to make sure that the concentration is not going to do you any harm (use a very small amount). Poor boiling water over the Tansy leaves and wait for about 5 minutes. Only take the tea as long as you’re sick (not more than a cup per day) and do not turn it into a daily habit. Tansy Tea cannot replace coffee and it’s toxic in high dosages. If you’ve taken this tea for a while and there are still no results, see a doctor immediately and stop taking Tansy Tea! Tansy Tea Side Effects Tansy Tea has many side effects. In fact, few physicians are brave enough to prescribe Tansy tea to their patients. It can cause spasms, hallucinations, convulsions. In very high dosages, it can cause death. Tansy Tea Contraindications Do not take Tansy Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding under no circumstances! Also, a very strong cup of Tansy Tea can cause death. There have been many reported cases of young women who died after ingesting a concentrated solution of this tea. Before making any moves towards using Tansy leaves or flowers, ask your doctor about the risks. If Tansy Tea seems a bit strong for your organism, next time you’re looking for a natural repellent, take it into consideration. It’s a very cheap method that will keep all worms away from your delicious vegetables!... tansy tea - a dangerous vermifuge

Tarragon Tea is best known for its ability to cure some forms of insomnia and other conditions of the nervous system, thanks to its strong aromatic flavor and substances. Although its use involves mainly the international cuisine, being added as an important ingredient to a variety of recipes, Tarragon is also good for health. Tarragon is a green perennial shrub with narrow leaves and lacking in hairs. It grows especially in the Northern hemisphere, in places like the United States, Asia and Siberia. It can easily be recognized by its small, yellow flowers. Tarragon Tea Properties Tarragon is the main ingredient in French salads and sauces that contain vinegar or as an old remedy for insomnia. The good thing about Tarragon Tea is that you can make it from the aerial parts of the plant as well as from its roots. This tea is very strong, containing tannis, coumarins and flavonoids, and up to 0.8% volatile oil, consisting of up to 70% methyl chervicol (estragole). The last substance is toxic and possibly carcinogenic, so pay attention to the amount of Tarragon you’re drinking or eating. Tarragon Tea Benefits Tarragon Tea is a great help if you’re suffering from arthritis, gout or rheumatism, experience flatulence and colic. In case you have worms, Tarragon Tea will flush them out of your system while calming your toothache and other localized pain. Actually, Tarragon Tea works as any other painkiller on the market and it’s natural! For menstrual problems, digestive track conditions and insomnia, this tea may come in hand: some say that half a cup of Tarragon Tea will make you sleep like a baby. However, don’t use a large amount of plants when preparing your tea or there’s a chance you’ll never wake up again! How to prepare Tarragon Tea Preparing Tarragon Tea couldn’t be any easier. Just turn boiling water over the dry or freshly picked Tarragon leaves and wait for about 5 minutes. You can drink it hot or cold, just make sure you don’t forget that this is a treatment used for your health and not an ordinary tea that could replace your morning coffee. Tarragon Tea Side Effects A long-term use of Tarragon Tea may cause cancer or even death because it contains a substance called estragole. If you’ve been drinking Tarragon Tea for a while and you’re experiencing dizziness or other nervous system problems, talk to your doctor right away! Tarragon Tea Contraindications Do not take Tarragon Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you’ve suffered from cancer in the past, it is best to consult your doctor before drinking Tarragon Tea or simply avoid taking it. Very important: if you’re allergic to ragweed and related plants, you’ll have an allergic reaction to Tarragon Tea as well. Make sure you’re well informed before starting a Tarragon Tea cure so you won’t get any problems. If you’are having trouble sleeping or need something to bring relief in case of menstrual pains, Tarragon Tea may be the right answer. However, if you’re not completely sure about it, talk to your doctor first and see which treatment fits you best. When he gives you the green light, add Tarragon Tea to your shopping cart and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... tarragon tea - insomnia treatment

Diabetes is a common disease which implies the lack of insulin or the inappropriate use of insulin. The most popular type of diabetes is Type II Diabetes, in which insulin is produced (sometimes in quantities above the limit), but not used properly by the organism. The result is that your blood glucose level will be higher than normal, which means that you have to start a daily regime. If trying a Tea for Diabetes doesn’t seem too ineffective to you, follow our instructions and give it a try, provide that you are well informed before starting any type of treatment. How Tea for Diabetes Works Since your body’s reaction to the abnormality of insulin production is to increase the blood glucose, a very effective Tea for Diabetes’ first task is to lower your blood sugar and decrease your insulin level. That can only be possible thanks to a series of enzymes that work on your affected areas, bringing you relief from pain and improving your general health. What you must know is that this kind of teas cannot replace your traditional treatment, but only work as an adjuvant. Don’t give up on your pills to replace them with a tea in order to avoid a glucose crisis or even a coma. Efficient Tea for Diabetes If you’ve decided to go with a Tea for Diabetes, you can choose one from this list and give it a try: - Green Tea – as you probably know, Green Tea contains all the important nutrients capable to sustain life. It can treat a series of other diseases, but make sure you’re not on your period when taking a treatment based on Greet Tea. - Oolong Tea – a very efficient Tea for Diabetes, very rare, but which can work miracles on you and your health. If you find a provider specialized in Oolong Tea, hold on to it! - White Tea – has almost the same effect as Green Tea, but less contraindications. However, make sure you don’t exceed the number of recommended cups of tea per day in order to avoid digestive tract and nervous system complications. - Centaury Tea – a Tea for Diabetes that has been used as a great pain reliever since ancient times. This tea contains secoiridoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, triterpenes, xanthone derivatives and triterpenes, used for homeopathic and digestive problems and also as a great adjuvant in Diabetes cases. - Ginseng Tea – also a very efficient decoction which can be useful for various affections, such as thinking improvement, speeding your reaction in time, increasing your resistance to stress and detoxifying your kidney and liver. In diabetes cases, its role consists mainly of normalizing your insulin production. - Wild Cherry Bark Tea – having probably the most pleasant taste of all Teas for Diabetes, Wild Cherry Bark Tea is very rich in nutrients and vitamins, such as vitamin C, b-complex and vitamin D. The main ingredients of this tea are Acetylcholine, HCN, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, prunasin, scopoletin and tannins. It’s also good for bronchitis, pleurisy, colds or flu. - Yerba Mate Tea – probably the most efficient of these teas, Yerba Mate Tea is considered to be “the new green tea” thanks to its constituents. This tea is a great help in almost any affection, but you must be very careful when taking it. High dosages may lead to death! Tea for Diabetes Side Effects When taken according to specifications, these teas have no side effects and are generally safe. However, high dosages may lead to a number of health complaints, such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, hallucinations and even death. Talk to an herbalist or to your doctor before making any move! It’s best to be safe than sorry! Alos, do not take a Tea for Diabetes if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood thinners and anti-coagulants or preparing for a major surgery.These teas could interfere with your anesthetic and lead to death! Once you have the green light from your doctor, choose a Tea for Diabetes that fits you best and enjoy its great benefits!... tea for diabetes

Liver problems appear as a sign of weakness shown by your organism after a prolonged consumption of alcohol, drugs or medicines. The main characteristic of these affections is that they are due to system intoxication and need to be repaired as quickly as possible. The liver is the organ responsible for our molecular exhaustion. All the toxins in our body go straight to the liver in order to clear the blood and detoxify the entire mechanism. When the liver is not functioning well, the main symptoms are: fatigue, stress, vascular malfunction and irradiated pain from the liver area to the entire body. Unsolved liver problems may lead to kidney failure and then to pulmonary edema or other respiratory disorder. How Tea for Liver Works A Tea for Liver is a natural supplement that can calm your localized pain and bring relief to those suffering from this affection. The main ingredients of these teas are based on a great amount of nourishing substances that can reconstruct the damaged liver cells or at least increase their action. However, these teas are not recommended for severe liver problems. If the pain is unbearable, a tea is most likely to calm it for a while and then lose its positive effect on your body. If that is the case, you should see a doctor immediately. Efficient Tea for Liver When choosing a Tea for Liver, you must keep in mind the fact that it must be safe and nourishing. You don’t need a tea that is rich in volatile oils or other substances that slow the liver cells’ action. If you are not sure about your abilities to choose the right tea, here are some suggestions: - Green Tea – has all the necessary ingredients to sustain life. Also, its action includes nourishing the coronary system and the arteries, in order to enhance the blood flow through your organs - Black Tea – more powerful than the Green Tea, the Black Tea is very effective, but more dangerous. If you’re also on your period or menopause, it’s best not to take it: it may cause abdominal acidity and discomfort. - Yerba Mate Tea – or the new green tea, how the specialists are calling it. Yerba Mate Tea can be used as a cure in order to rejuvenate the liver, but also as a treatment in cases of low blood pressure or digestive tract infections. Pay attention, though: more than 2 cups of Yerba Mate Tea per day may lead to a series of nervous system complications and even death! Teas you should avoid If you are suffering from liver problems, it’s best to avoid taking a tea with an elevated level of vitamins or acids. Although vitamins get directly to your blood and none of them reaches the liver, they have a tendency to enhance your body’s action towards other affected areas. In other words, they make your antibodies be more preoccupied with a random scratch than with your liver problems. A Tea for Liver needs to be specialized in internal affections and only attract antibodies to the most important damages. Tea for Liver contraindications When taken properly, any Tea for Liver is safe. However, high dosage may lead to a number of complications, such as diarrhea, nausea and even death. If you’re not very sure about starting a treatment based on one of these teas, talk to a specialist in order to gather more information. If there’s nothing that could interfere with your treatment, choose a Tea for Liver and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... tea for liver

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

Tribulus Tea is a well known for its aphrodisiac properties and for its ability to enhance the sexual activity, even if Tribulus plant is still considered a pest in many areas of the world. Tribulus is a perennial herb that grows mainly in sunny and warm places, such as Southern Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia, with small green leaves and bright yellow flowers. Its fruits contain a fruit that is round and hard. You can recognize it by its short needles, places on the back side of the leaves and all over the roots. Tribulus Tea Properties The main ingredient of Tribulus Tea is called steroidal sapoins and it can be found mainly in the leaves. However, drinking too much Tribulus Tea may increase your body’s toxicity level and cause great damages to your health. A great amount of steroidal sapoins is hard to be flushed out of your system, so if you’re not sure about taking it and you don’t know how much steroidal sapoins your system can take, talk to a herbalist or to your doctor. Tribulus Tea Benefits Tribulus Tea is a great help when it comes to increasing the libido. However, too much of it may cause you problems. It is also used to treat infertility in men, some erectile disorders and it is said that Tribulus Tea has also anti-tumor properties. Herbalists say that this tea can also increase your muscular mass, lower your blood pressure and your cholesterol. How to make Tribulus Tea Infusion Preparing Tribulus Tea involves following a number of simple steps. Take the fresh or dried herbs (you can use any parts of tribulus plant), put them in a teapot and add boiling water. Leave it for 10 or 15 minutes and drink it hot or cold. Use a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea and don’t drink more than 1 or 2 cups per day, for a short time period. Do not turn drinking Tribulus Tea into a daily habit, just take it as long as you need to take advantage of its benefits and then take some time off. This way, your system will be able to flush away any trace of toxicity that this tea could leave. Tribulus Tea Side Effects The main concern when it comes to taking Tribulus Tea is that you shouldn’t drink more than one or two cups per day, for not longer than 7 days. When enhancing your libido, Tribulus Tea increases your hormone level, especially your estrogen and testosterone level. If you are a female, pay attention to hair growth and other male characterics, and if you are a male, make sure you keep an eye on how your glands are behaving. Let’s not forget that Tribulus Tea is a medical treatment and should not be used unsupervised. Before starting a Tribulus Tea Treatment, talk to a specialist. Tribulus Tea Contraindications Do not take Tribulus Tea if you are suffering from one of these conditions: stomach disorders, ulcers, breast and prostate cancers as well as other hormone-dependent problems. The same advice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: since the active ingredient of this tea enhances your libido by increasing your hormone level, it is best to avoid taking it. If you have already taken it and you’re experiencing vomiting episodes or any other side effect, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! But, if both your health and will are strong, there’s no reason not to take Tribulus Tea. At least give it a try and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... tribulus tea libido enhancer

Triphala Tea is one of the most popular remedies for digestive track conditions, such as constipation, irritable bowel movement, gastritis or ulcers. Triphala is very important for the Ayurvedic medicine through which Indians cure almost any affection of the body using only herbs. Since the most common health problems in the world involve the digestive system, Triphala Tea became quite popular among both doctors and patients suffering from one of the diseases mentioned above. Triphala is a mixtue of three main ingredients (triphala means “three fruits”): Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellerica which is a hypoglycemic agent. Triphala Tea Properties The main property of Triphala Tea is that is made from a mixture of three fruits, so it can simultaneously treat more than one condition at a time. Triphala Tea has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a panacea, thanks to its ability to strengthen and detoxify the body. Each ingredient of Triphala mixture contributes to your health in a unique way: - Emblica officinalis is a tonic used for its rejuvenating and cooling action. - Terminalia chebula is known as a good remedy for coughs, sore throats and it can also help removing your kidney stones or your lung mucus. - Terminalia bellerica has proven its importance when treating conditions of the nervous system and other localized affections: gas, muscular rheumatism and itching. Bringing them together is a good idea because it’s like treating all your health problems with just a cup of tea! Triphala Tea Benefits The great benefit of Triphala Tea is that it represents more than just a tea: it’s a herbal panacea that can help you with your digestion and heart problems. Triphala Tea lowers your digestive track acidity, helping your food get faster through your stomach and eliminating harmful gases from your body. By inhibiting cholesterol accumulations in your blood veins, Triphala Tea also give you a hand if you have arteriosclerosis. Not only that, but it will also lessens your muscle spasms and increase your blood flow. Some say that this wonderful tea can be a real help if you’re trying to lose weight in a natural way, by lowering your fat. Triphala Tea also enhances your vitality. In fact, triphala is one of the main ingredients in many energy drinks all over the world. A cup of this tea could easily reduce your stress and improve your general health. How to make Triphala Tea When preparing Triphala Tea, you need to be careful about one thing: only buy the ingredients from a trusted provider. There are a lot of fake powders sold as Triphala. It’s better to use powders because the amount of each fruit has already been measured and adapted, so you don’t need to worry about how much of this or that you should use. However, if you’re brave enough to make your own mixture at home, make sure you’re well informed before doing anything. Put a teaspoon of powder or mixture and add boiling water. Wait for 5 minutes if you’re using powder and 10 minutes if you’re using the mixture and drink it. Triphala Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Triphala Tea has no side effects at all. However, high dosages may cause stomach problems, gas and diarrhea. Triphala Tea Contraindications Do not take Triphala Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding in order to avoid unwanted bowel movement. If you haven’t taken it before and are unsure about starting a treatment based on it, it’s best to talk to a herbalist or to your doctor before. Triphala Tea is a great remedy in case you suffer from constipation, gas, arteriosclerosis or other heart condition. If there’s nothing that could possibly interfere with it, add Triphala Tea to your shopping list next time you’re looking for organic remedies!... triphala tea treats constipation

Usnea Tea has been known for centuries as a great remedy in case of infection, bacteria and microbes. Usnea is a plant also known as old man’s beard that grows in many varieties in regions from America and Europe. You can recognize it by its fuzzy strings that actually resemble to a grey beard. These strings are the leaves and they tend to extend to the entire territory that’s to their disposal, being able to invade forests thanks to its parasitic nature. However, Usnea tree is very useful in alternative medicine and not only to treat infection and bacteria. Usnea Tea has also a couple of aces up his sleeves. Usnea Tea Properties The main property of Usnea Tea is that thanks to its active ingredients it allows your health system to recover very fast and fight all kinds of invaders, such as parasites and bacteria. Its action involves bringing strength to your immune system and fighting diseases. The most important substances of this tea are: acid, essential fatty acids, mucilage and sterol. These ingredients turn Usnea Tea into an organic anti-bacterial treatment. Usnea Tea Benefits Aside from its ability to fight bacteria and microbes, Usnea Tea’s benefits also involve bringing relief in case you’re suffering from one of the following problems: - Infections of your digestive track (fungal infections in the mouth, stomach or intestines). - Disorders of your lungs, such as pneumonia, pleurisy, colds or flu. - Bacterial infections, irritated stomach or skin rash. - You can use Usnea smashed leaves to make a antibacterial dressing for the affected areas (in case you want to treat external infections. How to make Usnea Tea Infusion Preparing Usnea Tea infusion is very easy. All you need to do is infuse the usnea lichen in hot water and wait for 8 or 10 minutes. After that, take out the herb and drink the decoction hot or cold. You can take ¼ cups of Usnea Tea every hour, just remember to take some time off from the treatment every now and then. Usnea Tea Side Effects Don’t forget that Usnea Tea is a treatment and should only be taken as long as you are sick and by paying attention to the amount of liquid ingested. Although it has many benefits, this tea cannot replace coffee, so don’t turn it into a daily habit. If you’re unsure concerning this tea, it’s best to ask a specialist in order to find out more about the ups and downs that could interfere with your general well-being. If taken properly, Usnea Tea has no side effects at all. However, high dosages may lead to internal bleedings, nausea and vomiting. If you notice anything unusual when taking this treatment, talk to a doctor as soon as possible! Usnea Tea Contraindications If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid taking Usnea Tea. The same advice if you suffer from a serious condition and you’re on blood thinners. This way, you’ll prevent your coronary walls from erupting. If you’ve got the green light from the specialist, ask more about Usnea Tea next time you’re in a teashop and give it a try!... usnea tea infection treatment

Uva Ursi Tea has been known to practitioners around the globe for many centuries thanks to its active constituents that bring relief in case of liver malfunction. Uva Ursi, also known as bearberry (because the bears seem to be very fond of these berries), is a shrub with wide branches, pale green leaves and pink flowers. The fruits are usually round and red, with black seeds. It’s not very tall: usually, it doesn’t grow taller than 3 to 6 inches and you can find it mainly in the rocky areas. Uva Ursi Tea Properties Uva Ursi Tea is a well known treatment for internal conditions of both the digestive and the respiratory system. The parts used to make tea are the leaves and sometimes the stem fragments which contain phenolic glycoside or arbutin, a strong astringent with antiseptic effects. The pharmaceutical companies used the Uva Ursi extract to facial cleansers and acne treatments. Thanks to its other important ingredients, hydroquinone, tannins, hyperoside, monotropein and triterpenes, Uva Ursi Tea became more popular every year, being used many times as a panacea. Uva Ursi Tea Benefits Aside from its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, Uva Ursi Tea is a great remedy in case you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Urinary tract infections or vaginitis, by disinfecting the affected area and enhancing the alkaline level. - Kidney infections caused by accumulations of uric acid that may also lead to kidney stones and other related problems. - Bronchitis and nephritis, by calming the inflammations and inhibiting the mucus and phlegm production. - Back pains, thanks to its elevated vitamin C level that refreshes the entire system and helps you maintain a good general health. - Lithuria, cystitis, dysuria, pyelitis and other internal problems. How to make Uva Ursi Tea Infusion When you are preparing Uva Ursi Tea, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: Uva Ursi leaves are slightly impervious to water, so what you want to do is soak them in hot water first. Use one teaspoon of leaves for every cup of tea you want to make. Put the herbs in a teapot, add water and let it boil for 15 or 20 minutes. Uva Ursi leaves are quite woody so you need to wait a little longer for the active ingredients to be released. Drink it hot or cold, but not more than 2 cups per day. Uva Ursi Tea has a gentle, aromatic and citric flavor. Uva Ursi Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Uva Ursi Tea is safe. However, high dosages may lead to a number of allergic reactions or problems, such as nausea, vomiting, discoloration of the urine, liver damage, convulsions and even death. If you are experiencing an unusual episode after taking Uva Ursi Tea, ask a specialist and don’t try to treat it yourself at home! Uva Ursi Tea Contraindications Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking Uva Ursi Tea. Also, if you are allergic to vitamin C, don’t start a treatment based on Uva Ursi Tea under no circumstances! It may cause you irreparable damages. Before taking any kind of herbal treatment, talk to a herbalist or just ask your doctor. If he says it’s ok, add Uva Ursi Tea to your shopping list and give it a try! Enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea responsibly!... uva ursi tea - bronchitis treatment

Valerian Tea has been known for centuries as a very good remedy when it comes to calming and tranquilizing the affected areas of the human body. Although the first ones to use its wonderful benefits were the Chinese, Valerian Tea became soon popular around the globe. Many painkillers found today in drug stores contain Valerian extract. Valerian is a plant with green pin-like leaves and pink flowers that grows mainly in Asia and Northern Europe. Although the entire plant can be used for medical purposes, the alternative medicine has a cult for its roots that can be used freshly picked, dried or turned into powder. Valerian Tea Properties The best thing about Valerian Tea is that it contains a lot of active ingredients that are able to treat external damages, such as localized pains. Also, a treatment based on Valerian Tea can bring relief in case of internal problems as well. Valerian Tea has a peculiar taste that is both spicy and sweet, so you can add honey and lemon in order to make it more adequate. However, if you can handle the taste, you’ll have to deal with the smell. There have been many complaints about the strong and rather unpleasant smell. Valerian Tea Benefits Valerian Tea may come in hand in many health problems, thanks to a great alkaline level and to the ability to treat affections in almost no time. Unlike other teas, Valerian Tea has a very rapid effect on your health system. This tea could be a great help if you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Chronic insomnia and sleeplessness, by allowing endomorphins in your body to be released easier. - Affections of the nervous system such as hysteria and restlessness. - Menstrual pains, by calming the affected areas and increasing the blood flow. Also, Valerian Tea can bring relief to abdominal muscles - Irritable bowel movement, by soothing the intestine pains and preventing stomach cramps. - Convulsions and muscle spasms, by lowering the blood pressure and enhancing the muscular elasticity. - Valerian Tea is a good tumor growth inhibitor. How to make Valerian Tea Infusion When preparing Valerian Tea you need to make sure that the roots you are using are from a trusted provider. There are many roots of unknown provenience sold as Valerian on the market, so pay attention to that. If you have the good ingredients, use about a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make. Add boiling water and wait for 10 or 15 minutes. If the roots are dried, wait another 5 minutes for the health benefits to be released. Drink it hot or cold, but don’t drink more than 2 cups per day. Remember this is a medical treatment and Valerian Tea cannot replace coffee! Valerian Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Valerian Tea has almost no side effects at all. However, high dosages may lead to a number of complications such as severe headaches or upset stomach. Also, if you’ve been taking a treatment based on Valerian Tea and you’re experiencing vomiting episodes, talk to your doctor as soon as possible! Valerian Tea Contraindications Do not take Valerian Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The same advice if you are suffering from a severe disease and need to take blood thinners. In this case, Valerian Tea may lead to coronary problems due to cell walls damaging. Also, if you have a decreased liver function or preparing for a major surgery, avoid this tea at all costs! If you have a doubt concerning Valerian Tea, talk to a specialist before making any move. Other than that, there’s no reason not to try Valerian Tea and enjoy its wonderful health benefits responsibly! Follow our instructions and give it a try next time you’re in a teashop.... valerian tea - insomnia treatment

Vervain Tea is one of the best organic remedies in cases of kidney stones or diarrhea. Also, the Romans thought Vervain was a sacred plant and used it as a ceremonial plant whose main purpose was to purify the place and help prayers rise up to sky. Vervain is a perennial plant related to mint. It has deep green leaves and purplish flowers and it can be found almost anywhere in the world. Aside from its medicinal purpose, Vervain is also used as a decorative plant in some countries. Vervain Tea Properties Vervain Tea is a great purifier and a wonderful natural facial cleanser thanks to its active ingredients that fight against bacteria and microbes. The most important substances contained by Vervain Tea are: mucilages, bitters, iridoid glycosides (hastatoside, verbenalin), caffeic acid and essential oil. The last two are also used in the cosmetic industry as a great adjuvant in facial tonics and anti-acne treatments. Rinsing your face with Vervain Tea may turn out to be the evening habit: it will make your skin glow, by getting rid of black heads and impurities. Vervain Tea Benefits Aside from its purifying and cosmetic use, Vervain Tea has a lot of benefits that have been exploited by practitioners around the world. Many prescribe Varvain Tea as a diuretic and stimulant. However, if you suffer from one of the following problems, Vervain Tea can also be a great help: - Liver problems, caused by alcohol abuse or a long usage of other medical treatments. - Urinary tract infections, by disinfecting the digestive system and calming the affected areas. - Fever, by fighting bacteria and all forms of parasites. - Arthritis, by increasing the blood flow and decreasing the cholesterol responsible for coronary clotting. - Nervous disorders, burns, wounds, sores and digestive problems. How to make Vervain Tea Infusion When preparing Vervain Tea Infusion, you need to make sure the herbs you are using are properly washed. Use a teaspoon of Vervain plant for every cup of tea you want to make, finely chop it and add boiling water. Wait for 5 or 10 minutes (depending on the amount of water you’re using), strain and drink hot or cold. Don’t drink more than 4 cups of Vervain Tea per day. Vervain Tea Side Effects There are no reported cases of Vervain Tea side effects. However, high dosages may cause diarrhea and other problems of the digestive track. If you’ve been taking Vervain tea for quite a while and you’re experiencing some unusual episodes, talk to a specialist as soon as possible and don’t try to treat it yourself at home. You don’t want to turn a small health problem into a chronic disease. Vervain Tea Contraindications Do not take Vervain Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding since it may cause uterine contractions and internal bleedings. Vervain Tea is actually used as a labor inducer. Also, if you are on blood thinners, you may want to avoid taking a treatment based on Vervain Tea. If you have any doubts about this tea, talk to a specialist in order to gather more information. If you get the green light, add Vervain Tea to your shopping list and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... vervain tea benefits

Walnut Bark Tea has been known for years thanks to its curative properties. This tea is astringent, purgative, laxative, a good vermifuge and it has many other styptic properties. This tea can be from the leaves of the Walnut Bark tree, also known as juglans regia, that grows almost everywhere, from the south of China to the Balkans. The tree grows up to 25-30 meters long (75-90 feet) and it has a rather short trunk, with a 2 meters diameter (6 feet). It has big green leaves (about 30- 40 cm/ 1-1.3 feet) and yellow flowers that turn into fruits in the fall. The fruits are also green, with a thin brown layer covering the hard seeds. Walnut Bark Tea Properties The main properties of Walnut Bark Tea involve the ability to treat many health conditions, such as gingivitis, mouth infections, bad breath, constipation, cough, inflammation and impotency. Also, the Walnut bark leaves, applied topically, are a great remedy for damaged hair. The entire tree is used in many areas of interest: the wood is considered as being reliable and long lasting, thanks to its vermifuge property, the fruits are a great nutritional source, offering support in almost any type of diet and the seeds are used to treat some affections of the digestive track. Walnut Bark Tea Benefits Aside from its digestive system benefits, Walnut Bark Tea proves to be a good choice when it comes to: - Detoxification and bowel movements, thanks to its acids and amino-acids - Flushing out worms and other parasites out of your system - Diarrhea and dysentery (as an adjuvant to your traditional treatment) - Treating your sore throat, an inflammation in your tonsils or other conditions of the respiratory system - Treating mouth soreness, herpes or some skin conditions, such as eczema or irritation. How to make Walnut Bark Tea Infusion If you want to make Walnut Bark Tea, you’ll need Walnut Bark leaves. You can also use the fruits, but the tea will have a very unpleasant taste (the amino-acids are much more concentrated in the fruits). Use a teaspoon of freshly picked or dried leaves for every cup of tea you want to make, put it in a teapot and add boiling water. Wait for 15-20 minutes (the leaves are quite woody, so they need more time to release their natural benefits), take out the leaves and drink it hot or cold. If you’re thinking about keeping it in your refrigerator, don’t let it stay there for too long. Make a new bottle of tea every 3 or 4 days. Walnut Bark Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Walnut Bark Tea has no side effects. However, taking too much tea can cause rashes, irritated skin and hives. If you’ve been drinking Walnut Bark Tea for a while and are experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above, see a doctor as soon as possible and don’t try to cure it yourself! Walnut Bark Tea Contraindications If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s better to avoid taking Walnut Bark Tea. There isn’t enough information that could lead you in the right direction when it comes to these situations. However, keep in mind that Walnut Bark Tea has purgative and laxative properties and these may interfere with your pregnancy. If you still want to start a treatment based on Walnut Bark Tea, talk to your doctor first. If your general health is good, there’s no reason to avoid Walnut Bark Tea. Save yourself a lot of money by treating your bad breath or your mouth soreness at home. Natural remedies, natural health. Try Walnut Bark Tea and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea!... walnut bark tea diarrhea treatment

The Wheatgrass Tea has gained its popularity recently. Until now, its benefits were not acknowledged by the herbalists or by any other health researchers. However, recent studies have shown that Wheatgrass Tea is the king of alkaline teas, containing many substances that could easily be considered super ingredients. The wheatgrass is the young wheat plant, also known as triticum aestivum. The main use of this plant consists of turning it into a paste that can be added as a nutrient or as a spice in various recipes. However, the Wheatgrass Tea has also been used as a beverage to many menus. Wheatgrass is usually grown by soaking the seeds in water until they sprout and reach the height of 2 inches. Wheatgrass has a deep green color and it’s known for its antioxidant properties. Wheatgrass Tea Properties Wheatgrass Tea fans believe that a cup of tea per day can reduce stress, improve your general health and maintain a good liver function. The active ingredients in Wheatgrass Tea are: chlorophyll, enzymes, fiber, and alkaline. Wheatgrass also contains amino acids, vitamins minerals that are able to detoxify your body, by behaving like any other energy booster you can find at the drug store. Wheatgrass Tea Benefits Aside from its general health benefits, Wheatgrass Tea also helps you improve other areas of your body, by increasing your alkaline level. Wheatgrass Tea is a great help when it comes to: - Improving your digestive system and eliminate constipation - Preventing diabetes and heart problems - Enhancing your blood flow and your circulation - Protecting and preventing your body against colon cancer and detoxifying your organism - Fighting other diseases, such as anemia and heavy metal poisoning. How to make Wheatgrass Tea Preparing Wheatgrass Tea is really easy: gently wash the Wheatgrass plants (freshly picked only) and crush them in order to obtain a green liquid. Add cold water and drink it. Don’t boil the water or the plants. You can only enjoy the benefits of this tea if the wheatgrass keeps its entire flavor. For every cup of tea you want to make, you’ll need about 2 teaspoons of wheatgrass juice. Drink the decoction when cold and immediately after preparation. Wheatgrass Tea Side Effects Wheatgrass Tea is likely safe when taken in normal dosages. However, don’t make a hobby out of drinking Wheatgrass Tea and don’t turn it into a daily habit. This herb is used for medicinal purposes only. Recent studies have shown that this tea is safe for adults, but none of them involved children’s response yet, so it’s best to avoid giving Wheatgrass Tea to your child. Wheatgrass Tea Contraindications Do not take Wheatgrass Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The possible reactions that your body could have at this treatment remain unknown. However, if you’re in one of these situations and are still determined to start a Wheatgrass Tea cure, talk to your doctor before making any move. Also, if you suffer from a serious disease and you need to take blood thinners, try to postpone taking this tea. Other than that, there’s no reason not to try Wheatgrass Tea. Some say it works, some say it doesn’t. Just add it to your list next time you’re in a teashop and you be the judge of that!... wheatgrass tea and its great benefits

White Peony Root Tea is one of the most important herbs in Asian medicine, being used since ancient times to treat liver problems and to improve women’s general health. White Peony Root Tea can be made from a plant called Chinese peony or common garden peony, a perennial herb that grows in Eastern China, southern Tibet and Siberia. You can recognize it after its big white flowers and yellow stamens. The leaves are deep green and medium sized. White Peony Root Properties The best thing about White Peony Root Tea is that its properties contribute to a better general health of the human body, thanks to a high concentration of acids and amino-acids and also to a great alkaline conductivity. The main ingredient in White Peony Root Tea is paeoniflorin, a substance that has a high anti-spastic action in many areas of your system. The other active substances that can be found in this tea and enhance the paeonflorin’s effect are flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, tannins and polysaccharides. White Peony Root Benefits White Peony Root Tea has anti-inflammatory, sedative, analgesic and diuretic properties. This tea is a great help if you suffer from one of the following conditions: - Liver malfunction, by energizing it thanks to its alkaline property and helping it flush away all the toxins. - Bad blood circulation or poor blood nourishment. Also, White Peony Tea can lower your blood pressure. - Menstrual problems that consist of heavy bleedings and aggravated abdominal pain, by calming the affected area and by bringing relief. - Abdominal and chest pains, dizziness, headaches. - Epilepsy, by stopping seizures and convulsions and by nourishing your nervous system, so that the negative reaction can be eliminated. How to make White Peony Root Tea Infusion Preparing White Peony Root Tea infusion is very easy. Use a teaspoon of White Peony Root for every cup of tea you want to make. Put the herbs in a teapot and add boiling water. Wait for 10 or 15 minutes (depending on the amount of water you’re using) and drink it hot or cold. Don’t take more than 3 cups per day. White Peony Root Tea Side Effects White Peony Root Tea is safe as long as you take it for a short amount of time. Taken in high dosages, it may cause rashes and problems of the nervous system. White Peony Root Tea is not to be taken unsupervised and it’s a medical treatment. Do not drink it as often as you drink your coffee! Also, a higher dosage will not make your general health improve any faster. Follow our recommendations and talk to a doctor before making any move. White Peony Root Tea Contraindications If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take White Peony Root Tea, because it may cause uterine contractions and blood clotting. But if you have the green light from your doctor, there’s no reason not to try White Peony Root Tea. Add it to your medicine cabinet, follow our instructions and enjoy the wonderful benefits of White Peony Root Tea responsibly!... white peony root tea benefits

Wood Betony Tea has been known since ancient time as an herb able to cure almost any affection (cure-all), from gastric aliments to nervous system deviations. Wood Betony is a perennial herb that grows mainly in areas like Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa. You can recognize it by its oval toothed-like green leaves and bright purple flowers. Also known as stachys officinalis, this herb never grows taller than 70 cm and it can be harvested for medical purposes only during the summer. In ancient times, people believed that wood betony had magical powers and that a ritual made using it could fulfill wishes. Wood Betony Tea Properties Scientific research showed that Wood Betony Tea is a good remedy not only when it comes to external and internal use, but also as a stress releaser and a great purifier. Its main ingredients include betaine, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, harpagide, rosmarinic acid, stachydrine and tannin, which, through their simultaneous action, can heal a large variety of diseases and aliments. Wood Betony Tea Benefits Wood Betony Tea shows its benefits in many areas of the alternative medicine. Not only that is a very good adjuvant in case you want to maintain a good general health, but it also triggers positive reactions from your body in cases of chronic and serious diseases. You may find Wood Betony Tea useful if you suffer from one of the following conditions: - Sore throat, due to flu or long term smoking. Wood Betony tea can clear your respiratory system and also give you a boost of energy. - Headaches or severe migraines, thanks to its wonderful ingredients that prevent inflammations and treat localized pain. - Anxiety, by calming the nerves and increasing the natural endorphins level. - Elevated blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and elevated blood flow. Wood Betony Tea can ease your natural reactions down by inhibiting negative reactions from your heart and brain. - Severe diarrhea and other problems of the digestive track, by fighting bacteria and all possible microbial accumulations. How to make Wood Betony Tea Infusion When preparing Wood Betony Tea infusion, you need freshly picked or dried herbs that you can buy from almost any teashop. Use about 1 teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait for 10 minutes. Strain and drink it hot or cold, keeping in mind the fact that this is a medical treatment and cannot replace your coffee habit. Wood Betony Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Wood Betony Tea has no side effects at all. However, high dosages may lead to a series of health problems, such as ulcers, gastritis and nausea. If you’ve been taking Wood Betony Tea for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual reactions, ask for medical help as soon as possible! Wood Betony Tea Contraindications Don’t take Wood Betony Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It may lead to uterine contractions and internal bleeding. Also, avoid any treatment based on Wood Betony Tea if you’re preparing for a surgery or need to take blood thinners or anti-coagulant. Children under 2 years should not take this tea since the risks in this case remain unknown. However, if you have your doctor’s approval and you feel confident enough to give it a try, add it to your shopping cart next time you’re in a teashop and enjoy the wonderful benefits of this tea responsibly!... wood betony tea panacea

Wormwood Tea has been known for centuries as a great herbal treatment. Greeks used it as a treatment for many diseases, mostly concerning the digestive system problems or nervous system affections. Wormwood is a perennial herb that grows mainly in areas like Europe, Asia and Africa. It has speared-like green leaves, bright yellow flowers and its roots resemble to a rhizome. Also known as artemisia absinthus, wormwood has hallucinogenic and psychoactive properties. Wormwood is widely known as absinthe and it is said that great artists like Van Gogh and Hemingway owe a lot of their creation to wormwood consumption. Wormwood Tea Properties Aside from its hallucinogenic properties, Wormwood Tea turns out to be quite a help when it comes to treating certain health problems. Wormwood Tea is one of the bitterest teas on Earth so only take it combined with honey, ginger or lemon. Wormwood is the main ingredient of absinthe liquor and it’s also used as an important additive for wines, vinegar and vermouth. The active substances of this tea are thujone (absinthol or tenacetone), thujyl alcohol, acids, absinthin, tannins, resin, potash, and starch. Wormwood Tea Benefits Wormwood Tea has been used since ancient times as a hallucinogen in many rituals around the world. Africans believed that Wormwood Tea contained the secret to an absolute freedom of mind and that by taking it you could have reached the peak of human creativity. As crazy as these theories may sound, there are still many cults today that base their entire philosophy on Wormwood Tea consumption. Back to the real world, alternative medicine, by its practitioners, found the real medical benefits of this treatment. Wormwood Tea may come in hand if you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Indigestion, by inhibiting gastric bacterial and by lowering the microbial risk to infections. - Gastric pains, by decreasing the gastric acidity level. - Loss of appetite, by stimulating intestinal actions and stomach functions. - Worms and other parasites of the digestive system, by flushing them away thanks to an active substance called absinthin. - Immune system deficiencies, by increasing the number of antibodies and by redirecting them to the affected areas. How to make Wormwood Tea Infusion When preparing Wormwood Tea infusion, first you need to make sure that the plants you are about to use are exactly what the label says they are. Only buy Wormwood Tea from trusted providers! Second of all, only use a teaspoon of herbs for every two cups of tea you want to make: the wormwood is a very concentrated herb and you need to be careful when dosing the ingredients. Put the dried herbs in a teapot and add boiling water. Wait for 15 or 20 minutes and drink it hot or cold. However, don’t drink more than a cup of tea per day or you’ll poison your entire nervous system! Wormwood Tea Side Effects When taken according to instructions and under supervised care, Wormwood Tea is safe. However, high dosages may lead to hallucinations, paranoia and other severe conditions of the nervous system. If you’ve been taking Wormwood Tea for a more than three weeks and you’ve noticed some unusual changes in your body reaction, talk to a specialist as soon as possible and don’t try to treat it at home! Wormwood Tea Contraindications Wormwood Tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, patients suffering from mental deviations or other serious conditions that imply the use of blood thinners and anti-coagulants. The best thing you can do when it comes to Wormwood Tea consumption is to talk to a herbalist or to your doctor in order to find out more about the ups and downs of this very controversial tea. If you get a specialized approval and you feel very confident about this treatment, give it a try and enjoy the benefits of Wormwood Tea responsibly!... wormwood tea benefits and side effects

Yarrow Tea has been known for a long time thanks to its curative properties which include sweat inducing enzymes and fever inhibitors. Yarrow is an herb that grows mainly in the wilderness of the Northern Hemisphere. You may know it by one of its other names: Western Yarrow, yarrow, milfoil, soldier’s woundwort, staunchwee and woundwort or by its Latin denomination, Achillea millefolium. Yarrow has segmented greed leaves and lavender or daisy-white flowers. The Latin name comes from the Greek mythology: according to some legends, the legendary Achilles used a tincture of Yarrow all over his body to make himself invulnerable to arrows and cure the wounds of the other fighters. Yarrow Tea Properties Aside from the mythology that surrounds it, Yarrow Tea is actually a very respectable medical treatment, with noticeable effects on the human health system. The main ingredients of this tea are: bitters, chamazulene, proazulene, saponins, tannins and fatty acids. Due to its high level of saponis, Yarrow Tea is known as a very strong diaphoretic, being able to widen the coronary arteries’ walls and normalize a poor blood circulation. It is also used to treat childbirth pains and aggravated cholesterol damages. Yarrow Tea Benefits Recent studies showed that Yarrow Tea, when taken according to instructions, has a real effect on your general health, being able to treat a series of affections. You may find that Yarrow Tea is very useful in case you are suffering from one of the following conditions: - Fevers and colds, by inducing sweat and inhibiting infection. - Loss of appetite, stomach cramps, flatulence, enteritis and gastritis. - Gallbladder problems, overall liver malfunctions, internal hemorrhages (especially of the lungs). - Inflammation and menstrual pains. How to make Yarrow Tea Infusion When preparing Yarrow Tea Infusion, you need to make sure that you’re using the appropriate ingredients. Use a teaspoon of dried or freshly picked herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 5 minutes for the tea benefits to be released. Drink it hot or cold. However, don’t take more than two cups of tea per day in order to avoid complications. Yarrow Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Yarrow Tea has no side effects at all. However, high dosages showed that patients developed skin sensitivity to light. If you’ve been taking Yarrow Tea for a long time and you feel that your health is not improving, but rather deteriorating, talk to a specialist as soon as possible! Yarrow Tea Contraindications Don’t take Yarrow Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, children and patients suffering from digestive tract severe problems should avoid taking it at all costs. If you are preparing for a surgery or if you’re on blood thinners and anti-coagulants, you may want to postpone a treatment based on Yarrow Tea as much as possible. In order to gather more information, talk to a specialist. One you have the green light to start taking this tea, give it a try and enjoy the wonderful benefits of Yarrow Tea responsibly!... yarrow tea benefits

Yellow Dock Tea has been world-wide known as a great alternative remedy in cases of liver and blood affections. Yellow Dock is a perennial plant that can be found almost anywhere in the world, but which is original from Northern America. Although its name is Yellow Dock, the herb has a reddish-brown color with boiled and eaten leaves. The roots are the most important part of this plant since they are used for medical purposes mainly. The leaves can also be used as a treatment, but they are not very efficient, even if the pharmaceutical companies have been using them for a long while in order to produce face cleansers and anti-aging tonics. Yellow Dock Tea Properties The main property of Yellow Dock Tea is that it can be used as a treatment on its own as well as an adjuvant to other treatments, depending on the concentration and the doctor’s advice. The active ingredients of this tea are: emodin, magnesium, silicon, tannins and oxalic acid, which can only be found in the roots. Yellow Dock tea is a powerful stimulant and it has laxative properties, so it’s best not to use it in case you’re already suffering from diarrhea. Yellow Dock Tea Benefits Yellow Dock Tea is an important alternative medicine ingredient, thanks to its active substances, which are very versatile and can be used in treatments concerning many affected areas. Some say that Yellow Dock could easily be added as an adjuvant to absolutely any kind of medical treatment, in adequate quantities, of course. If you’ve already tried it, you probably know that Yellow Dock Tea is very useful in case you’re suffering from one of the following conditions: - Digestive problems, such as deficient bowel movement, gastritis, enteritis. Yellow Dock tea can release the enzymes that your body needs in order to recover from these affections. - Poor body detoxification, by helping the urinary and digestive systems to release endorphins. - Heavy-metal poisoning or poor liver function, by increasing the liver cells and reconstruction the damaged tissue. How to make Yellow Dock Tea Infusion Preparing Yellow Dock Tea Infusion is very easy. Use a teaspoon of Yellow Dock roots for every 2 cups of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 10 minutes for the wonderful benefits to be released. Drink it hot or cold, adding ginger, honey or lemon, if the taste seems a bit unpleasant to you. However, don’t drink more than a cup per day and only for a short while (1 to 3 weeks). Yellow Dock Tea Side Effects If you’re using freshly-picked leaves, use them with moderation. When taken properly, Yellow Dock Tea is safe. However, high dosages may cause a number of problems, such as upset stomach, internal bleedings and nausea. If you’ve been taking it for a while and you’re experiencing some unusual episodes, talk to a doctor immediately! Yellow Dock Tea Contraindications Don’t take Yellow Dock Tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, children and patients suffering from diarrhea and some serious diseases which imply the ingestion of blood thinners or anti-coagulants should avoid taking it at all costs! To gather more information, talk to a specialist. Once you are well-informed, give Yellow Dock Tea a try and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... yellow dock tea benefits

Yerba Mate Tea remained unknown to the general public until a while ago, when the South American tea gained an impressive popularity among world-wide practitioners. Yerba Mate is a small tree that grows mainly in hot climate regions such as Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Yerba Mate Tea can be made from this tree’s leaves and stems. Ancient civilizations believed that this tea was the drink of gods thanks to its curative properties and its ability to purify houses and temples. The custom is to drink Yerba Mate tea from a special container called bombilla and using a straw. Yerba Mate Tea Properties Yerba Mate Tea has a bitter-sweet taste and is very similar to the camellia sinensis tea. Scientists found that Yerba Mate tea contains 196 active ingredients, making this South American tea one of the richest decoctions on Earth. The main substances of this tea are: tannins, antioxidants, polyphenols, amino acids, saponins, vitamins and flavonoids. Herbalists discovered that Yerba Mate Tea contains all the ingredients capable to sustain life. Many recent studies refer to this tea as “the new green tea”. Yerba Mate Tea Benefits Aside from its cultural background, Yerba Mate Tea is one of the best teas on Earth, thanks not only to its numerous chemical ingredients, but also to a large amount of diseases that can treat. Although in the Latin Americas this tea is as popular (if not more popular) than the tea, it remains still unknown to European public. However, Yerba Mate Tea may come in hand in case you’re suffering from one of the following problems: - Low energy level and fatigue, by giving your health system a boost. - Central nervous system problems, such as headaches and severe migraines, by helping your body produce and release more endorphins. - Gastrointestinal disorders, such as stomach pains and intestinal infections, flushing out of your system all microbes and unwanted parasites. How to make Yerba Mate Tea Infusion Preparing Yerba Mate Tea couldn’t be any easier. Just take the dried lives (if you live in South America, try to use the freshly-picked ones. They have a stronger flavor), put them in a teapot and add boiling water. Use a teaspoon of every cup of tea you want to make and wait 15 minutes for the wonderful benefits of this tea to be released. Drink it hot or cold, from a glass or a bombilla. Yerba Mate Tea Side Effects There are no reported cases of Yerba Mate Tea side effects. However, in order to avoid any kind of complications, it’s best not to drink more than 4 cups of tea per day. If you’re still having doubts about taking a treatment based on Yerba Mate Tea, talk to a specialist and gather more information. Yerba Mate Tea Contraindications When taken in high dosages, Yerba Mate Tea may lead to a number of negative reactions from your body, such as lung cancer, esophageal cancer, laryngeal cancer and kidney cancer. Before starting any herbal treatment, talk to a specialist in order to be informed of the implied risks. If you feel confident in your health, you already have your doctor’s ok on this matter andyou’re willing to follow a list of basic instructions, give Yerba Mate Tea a try and enjoy its great benefits!... yerba mate tea - the new green tea

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

Yohimbe Tea has been used for centuries as a very powerful aphrodisiac, although this use was only exploited by the Africans. Later on, the scientists found out that the active constituents of this tea could very well be used to improve erectile function. Many pharmaceutical treatments contain a small dosage of Yohimbe Tea extract. Yohimbe is a small ever-green tree that grows mainly in places like Gabon, Cameroon and Zaire. Also known as pausinystalia yohimbe, this tree is a member of the Rubiaceae family that can be recognized by its lance-like leaves and brownish bark. Yohimbe Tea Properties Aside from its aphrodisiac properties, Yohimbe Tea contains a lot of chemical ingredients used to treat a variety of health problems. The active substances of this tea are yohimbine HCl (indole alkaloid), which can only be found in the bark and which is the responsible constituent for all the medical benefits of this tea. Other than this, Yohimbe Tea also contains pigments and tannis, but in a smaller dosage, almost impractical for the alternative medicine. Yohimbe Tea Benefits Drinking Yohimbe Tea has proven its benefits since ancient times, when African population used it as a medical cure and also as an important element when it came to religious ceremonies and rituals. It was believed that whoever drank a cup of Yohimbe Tea during one of these ceremonies, would have a great sexual life. Some say it only worked thanks to the willing power, other truly believed that this tea can perform miracles. Aside from these legends, scients found out that Yohimbe Tea is actually a good sexual enhancer and an erectile dysfunction treatment. How to make Yohimbe Tea Infusion Preparing Yohimbe Tea is very easy. Use a teaspoon of herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 30 minutes for the health benefits to be released. Strain and drink it hot or cold, adding honey or lemon, if you feel the taste is a bit unpleasant. You can either use dried or freshly picked leaves; the only thing you need to be careful about is where you buy them from. Make sure you only use herbs from a trusted provider. Yohimbe Tea Side Effects When taken properly, Yohimbe Tea is perfectly safe. However, high dosages may lead to a number of complications such as rapid heartbeat, kidney failure, seizure, heart attack and others. Make sure you talk to a doctor the first time you notice something unusual about your health when taking Yohimbe Tea! It’s better to be safe than sorry! Yohimbe Tea Contraindications Don’t take a treatment based on Yohimbe Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or suffer from one of the following disorders: - Schizophrenia (this tea can enhance your psychotic episodes). - Prostate problems. - Post traumatic distress, liver failure, kidney failure, chest pain, anxiety, high or low blood pressur. But if there’s nothing that could interfere with this herb’s ingredients, try Yohimbe Tea and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... yohimbe tea - a natural aphrodisiac

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

Osmanthus fragrans

FAMILY: Oleaceae

SYNONYMS: Sweet osmanthus, sweet olive, tea olive, fragrant olive, silang, holly osmanthus, holly olive, kwai hwa.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen shrub or small tree growing up to 12 metres tall, with broad leaves and bearing purple-black fruits containing a single hard-shelled seed. The small flowers, which appear in clusters late in the season, can be white, pale yellow, gold, orange or reddish in colour, with a strong sweet fragrance much like fresh apricots or peaches.

DISTRIBUTION: This plant is native to Asia from the Himalayas through southern China to Taiwan and southern Japan. It is the ‘city flower’ of the cities of Hangzhou, Suzhou and Guilin in China. Today it is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens in Asia, Europe, North America, and elsewhere in the world, mainly for its deliciously fragrant flowers.

OTHER SPECIES: Osmanthus is a genus of about 30 species belonging to the olive family, which are mainly found growing in warm climates. While the flowers of O. fragrans range in colour from silver-white (O. fragrans Lour. var. latifolius) to gold-orange (O. fragrans Lour. var. thunbergii) to reddish (O. fragrans Lour. var. aurantiacus), the absolute is usually prepared from the gold-orange flowered species. A number of cultivars of this species have also been selected for garden use, with specific names: for example, in Japan, the white and orange-blossoming subspecies are distinguished as silver osmanthus and gold osmanthus respectively.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The exotic flowers from this plant have traditionally been cherished in the East for a range of purposes. Due to the time of its blossoming, sweet osmanthus is closely associated with the Chinese mid-autumn festival when osmanthus-flavoured wine and tea are traditionally served. The flowers are also used to produce a special osmanthus-scented jam, called guì huà jiàng. The tree is known as tea olive because in ancient times the Chinese used it to make a natural ‘de-tox’ herbal tea to flush out excessive nitric oxide from the system; the tisane was also recommended for menstrual irregularities. In some regions of North India, especially in the state of Uttarakhand, the flowers of sweet osmanthus are still used to protect clothes from insects.

Traditional Chinese medical literature describes the usefulness of the flowers of Osmanthus fragrans in the treatment of phlegm reduction, dysentery with blood in the bowel, indigestion and diarrhoea. The Chinese also used the flowers as a natural medicine to improve the complexion of the skin and today the absolute is still employed in cosmetic preparations. However, modern evidence regarding the therapeutic efficacy of the flowers has shown them to be somewhat limited, although studies have indicated they do have anti-oxidant properties, valuable for skincare. Findings also confirmed the ability of the O. fragrans flowers to reduce phlegm and suggest that they may be useful as an anti-allergic agent. Although little used in aromatherapy, since the aroma is relaxing and soothing, helping bring relief from mental stress and depression, it can make a valuable addition to floral-based blends.

ACTIONS: Anti-oxidant, anti-allergic, expectorant, depurative, insecticide, nervine, regulating, sedative.

EXTRACTION: A concrete and absolute by solvent extraction from the fresh flowers. Since the yield of absolute from concrete is only about one kilo per 3,000 kilos of flowers, the enfleurage method or the infusion process have also been applied to these flowers.

CHARACTERISTICS: A green to brown viscous liquid with a very strong sweet-honey, floral, fruity perfume with notes of peach and apricot. It blends well with lime, orange, sandalwood, rose, benzoin, violet, jasmine, mimosa and ylang ylang.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Main constituents include beta ionone, gamma-decanolid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, linalool oxide, dihydro-beta-Ionone, trans-beta-Ionone and cis-jasmone.

SAFETY DATA: No recorded contraindications for external application: best avoided during pregnancy.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Dry or mature skin and general skin care.

Nervous system: Anxiety, depression, nervous debility and tension, mood swings, stress.

OTHER USES: Osmanthus absolute (although often adulterated) is used in high-class perfumes for its exquisite aroma, which is very pleasing to the senses. It is also used as a cosmetic ingredient.... osmanthus