The Candida organism populates the human intestines and is known as the "bad bacteria." When Candida overgrowth occurs, side effects may appear truly bizarre, as they can range from severe headaches, memory loss, mood swings, clogged sinuses,...
Garlic is an herb frequently used in cooking and medicine. It's main medicinal compound---allicin---is thought to have healing properties and is also responsible for garlic's distinctive odor. Garlic has been used for centuries as a treatment...
If you don't get enough fiber from your daily diet, your doctor may recommend treatment with an over-the-counter fiber supplement called Metamucil. Metamucil is the brand name for the naturally occurring herb called psyllium. Increasing your fiber...
Derived from the root of the Cichorium intybus plant, chicory root extract may impart health benefits when used as a medicinal treatment. Historically, chicory root has been used as a sedative, anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. Before you begin...
Chicory root is a type of herb derived from the fresh or dried root of the Cichorium intybus plant. This plant -- which is also referred to as coffeeweed and blue sailor's succory -- can be found in almost every state in America. If you have...
Acidophilus, known also as lactobacillus acidophilus, is a bacteria made from lactic acid that is found naturally in the intestines and the vagina. Acidophilus regulates the amount of acid in the body and prevents the growth of unhealthy bacteria....
Probiotics are live and active microorganisms, mainly bacteria, which are similar to those that exist naturally in the human digestive tract. Often referred to as friendly bacteria, probiotics may help to encourage digestion and regularity, as...
Ginkgo biloba -- also called ginkgo -- is an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree. Traditionally, ginkgo biloba has been used as a medicinal treatment for circulatory problems. This antioxidant supplement may also...
Your small and large intestines are bathed with helpful bacteria, essential for good digestion and not harmful to your body. Probiotics are a form of bacteria found in many foods. These probiotics can live in your intestines and if you lose the...
Viewed from a purely semantic perspective, antibiotics and probiotics would appear to be at cross-purposes with each other. In truth, these two substances are both used to cure illness and support health. Antibiotics are drugs that kill harmful...
Though your body produces small amounts of choline -- an essential nutrient involved in transferring signals through your brain -- you also need to consume choline as part of your daily diet. Most adults get the recommended 425 to 550 mg of...
Gentian is a natural herbal supplement derived from the root of the Gentiana lutea plant. Traditionally, this bitter herb has been used to improve digestion, treat diarrhea and reduce fevers, the University of Michigan Health System reports;...
Chrysanthemum tea is a warm, herbal drink prepared from the flowers of the Chrysanthemum morifolium plant. In Chinese medicine, chrysanthemum tea has been used traditionally as a natural fever-reducer and anti-inflammatory treatment; however,...
Stevia is a natural, nonsugar sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Its use is particularly beneficial for people who are trying to lose weight or have diabetes, as stevia contains no calories and doesn't affect blood sugar levels...
Your gastrointestinal tract is home to multiple species of microorganisms. Some are beneficial, as they synthesize vitamins, absorb nutrients and protect against pathogens, or disease-causing organisms. Others cause harm. For example, they may...
You might perceive bacteria as a threat to your health, but in some cases, bacteria can help relieve symptoms and prevent diarrhea. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that live in your body, where they confer numerous benefits to your health, and...
The nettle herb, more commonly called stinging nettle, is a medicinal supplement derived from the Urtica dioica plant. Treatment with stinging nettle is purported to treat conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, hay fever and...
