Plants have been used therapeutically since before the beginning of recorded history. Taken in teas, tinctures, infusions, capsules or pills, herbal supplements are made from plants and plant parts. Many herbal supplements are useful, but others...
For centuries, people have passed down the wisdom of herbalists and "wise women" through stories and practical applications. Before the advent of modern medicine, people relied on their own medicine men and women to heal their illnesses and...
There are just 13 vitamins required by the body for normal growth, development and functioning. In contrast, there are hundreds of herbs used as ingredients in herbal supplements. Some herbal supplements have clinically proven benefits, while...
The World Health Organization states that 80 percent of the world's inhabitants employ botanical remedies for some primary care illnesses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Herbal teas can provide effective relief from some...
With health care costs spiraling out of control, and obesity-related health problems on the rise, more people are turning to low-cost herbal remedies to help achieve their weight loss goals. A range of ingredients are commonly included in herbal...
Thanks to rising obesity rates in the United States, there are a wide number of dietary supplements available for fat loss. However, many of these supplements contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants, which may cause side effects or...
Herbs may seem like a safe alternative for treating many symptoms or ailments. While this may be the case for many herbs, some herbs may cause serious side effects when used incorrectly. Like any supplement, herbs should be used in the correct...
The best way to condition damaged and dry hair at home, according to the book “Family Herbal - A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality,” is to perform a hot oil treatment with natural oils such as olive, jojoba, coconut...
Face creams provide moisture and nourishment for your skin. Rosehip oil in homemade face cream is a rich source of vitamins A and C, which are anti-oxidants according to "Family Herbal--A Guide to Living Life With Energy, Health and Vitality" by...
Back to Basics shampoos contain botanical extracts that nurture hair without the use of animal bi-products, petroleum or mineral oils. In her book "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality,"...
Essential oils are oils that are concentrated essences from the medicinally active portions of plants. They are generally made by either steam or water distillation. These oils are highly concentrated and so only a small amount needs to be used...
Helping your hair grow faster can be accomplished through patience, time and application of certain hair growth-stimulating home remedies. According to MedlinePlus, you lose an average of 100 hairs from your head every day. Additionally, your hair...
Artesmisia absinthiun is the botanical name for the wormwood plant. Wormwood is most commonly known for its use in making absinthe, as well as vermouth and white wine. However, the stalks and leaves of the wormwood plant can be used for medical...
Many different conditions can lead to nerve damage, also known as neuropathy. "Neuro" refers to nerves, and "pathy" means abnormal. Diabetes is responsible for 30 percent of all cases, according to The Neuropathy Association. Tumors, autoimmune...
Herbalists sometimes recommend maca for thyroid problems, but you should consult your doctor before trying this herb -- especially if your problem is hyperthyroidism as opposed to hypothyroidism -- because it is usually recommended for the latter....
Rashes on top of your feet and thighs can mean superficial blisters and red lumps that, when left untreated, may cause pain and scaring. They may also be itchy and uncomfortable. These rashes may be a symptom of an allergic reaction to food or...
Saffron was used by the ancient Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Middle Eastern civilizations centuries ago. Saffron comes from a species of the crocus flower and lends color and intense flavor to food. The use of saffron has spread around the world and...
You can use a combination of diet, herbal teas and enemas to cleanse out your colon. Your colon, or large intestine, is the last step in your digestive process and it is mainly in charge of absorbing minerals and water from food that has been...
Saffron is a yellow-red spice harvested from the dried stigmas and tops of styles of "Crocus satisvus," a fall-flowering plant native to Asia Minor. You can find saffron in medicines, perfumes, dyes and as flavoring for food and beverages....
Natural products can contain many health benefits that help you improve and maintain your health. Honey contains 35 percent protein that contains half of the essential amino acids your body needs and it also contains vitamins in the B-complex, as...
Lemons have been used for thousands of years for culinary and cleaning purposes. The astringent nature of lemon juice, along with its antibacterial and bleaching properties, make lemons seem like the perfect all-natural tooth whitener. However,...
Testosterone is produced in the testicles of males and the ovaries of females. It regulates sexual drive, especially in men, and governs sperm count. For testosterone production, the luteinizing hormone secreted by the pituitary gland triggers...
The papaya, a tropical tree-like plant, was originally cultivated in Mexico and can grow more than 30 feet tall. The papaya plant bears a versatile fruit that is eaten both ripe and unripe. According to "Papaya the Medicine Tree," the entire...
For those seeking a more youthful appearance, a high-protein diet may offer certain benefits. Opponents charge that high-protein diets may increase the risk of liver and kidney problems, constipation and colon cancer. Advocates cite a lack of...
Your brain cells, or neurons, are made up of a double layer of fatty acids that come from the digestion of fat in your diet, according to the Franklin Institute. The article "Mind Over Mass: Cholesterol Levels Might Be Controlled By Brain...
Herbs and essential oils have been used for thousands of years to heal and treat a variety of physical and mental conditions. Lavender has a long history of use, dating back to the times of ancient Rome. According to aromatherapists Carol Schiller...
Aloe vera gel has a natural pH of 4.3 and drinking it can help you treat and heal skin problems such as acne and rosacea, according to the book "Family Herbal--A Guide to Living Life With Energy, Health and Vitality," by herbalist Rosemary...
Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the more commonly known forms of beneficial bacteria, often called probiotics. These bacteria are essential for digestion and the proper working of the gut. They also help to maintain a balance with the bad...
Detox products cover the shelves of health food stores while magazines tout the benefits of the latest cleansing diet. Almost all proponents of body cleansing claim that toxins will be removed from the body and weight will also drop. It's easy to...
