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Damiana-Turnera diffusa

About

The scientific term for the shrub damiana is Turnera diffusa. It is native to the Caribbean, South, Central, and Mexico, Texas, and South America. Louisiana prohibits the use of damania. The plant known as damiana is used in traditional Mexican healing. Damiana was used as a natural medicine long before there was any written history. By the time the Spanish came across the Atlantic, indigenous cultures had been using it for millennia as an aphrodisiac and bladder tonic. Damiana, like many other plants sold today, is said to promote healthy intercourse and treat a variety of ailments, from diabetes to anxiety. There isn't much more than empirical evidence to support these claims. Damiana began to gain popularity as a business product in the 1870s, primarily as a stimulant, particularly for the elderly and weak. It first appeared in the American "National Formulary" in 1888 before being eliminated in 1916. Damiana was gradually losing its reputation until it was found in the 1960s by hipsters and ethnobotanists seeking non-traditional treatments for illness.

Parts Used

• Aerial parts
• Flowers
• Leaves
• Seeds

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Acacetin
• Alkaline
• Alpha pinene
• Arbutin
• Atropine
• Beta carotene
• Beta pinene
• Beta sitosterol
• Calcium
• Coumarins
• Chlorophyll
• Damianin
• Essential oil
• Eucalyptol
• Flavonoids
• Hyoscyamine
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Niacin
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Protein
• Resin
• Scopolamine
• Selenium
• Starch
• Sugar
• Tannins
• Thymol
• Tropane alkaloids
• Vitamin A, B2, B3, B12, C
• Volatile oil
• Zinc

Actions and Uses

Damiana may be consumed by eating its leaves. It is believed to enhance both men and women's sexual desire and endurance. It has historically been used to address bladder and urine problems. Due to the herb's impact on the bladder, some people enjoy how it makes them feel. Additionally, damiana has the ability to help with anemia, menopause, and skin conditions. Several studies back this but more research should be conducted. Damiana also promotes gut muscle tension and oxygenates the genital region. Used to treat libido and hormonal issues as well as an aphrodisiac and vitality booster. Referred to as a "sexuality tonic" for ladies at times. It also has the ability to act as an abortive, exportorants, and pulmonary and respiratory diseases. Thymol, one of the herb's active components, is what gives damiana its life-affirming and energizing effects on the body and psyche. Damiana is frequently prescribed by herbalists for slight to severe depression, anxiety, and nervous fatigue. Its energizing and restoring qualities make it a useful herb for anxiety and melancholy. Last but not least, damiana may have properties to lower blood sugar levels. Medication to lower blood sugar already exist, so If you take damiana along with diabetes medicines, your blood sugar levels could drop too low causing severe health concerns. 

Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

Dandelion-Taraxacum officinale

About

Although it can grow almost anywhere, dandelion is a short-lived perennial that prefers fertile loam for optimal development. Dandelion scientific name is Taraxacum officinale. They can endure cold temperatures and congestion. The foliage will become bitter as a result of heat and a lack of hydration, but the plant will still survive. Early in the spring, a cluster of lance-shaped leaves emerges from the top. Individual leaves can be whole or lobed, with the serrated lobes varying in depth of incision. On the same plant, different lobe designs can appear. Some kinds of butterflies and moths' larvae may use the bouquet of foliage as a source of food. Although it was never grown as a crop in Europe, seedlings were sold in England in the 19th century because there wasn't enough lettuce and endive to go around. Dandelion is currently advertised as a "tonic," a diuretic, and for a number of ailments, such as illnesses and stomach complaints.

Dandelion is used as a culinary ingredient in soups, wine, and beverages as well as a salad vegetable. The toasted root is used as an alternative to coffee. In some places, dandelion is also on the menu. According to sources,  El faisà o l'ànec amb queixals de vella, a meal made with dandelion and chicory cooked with rice and pine nuts, is a common autumn preparation for pheasant or duck in Catalonia. Radkia Me Rzi Tis Kyras Agápis is a dish made with dandelion and chicory cooked with rice and pine nuts in Macedonia. You can find dandelion herbs and roots fresh or dried in a variety of forms, including tinctures, liquid extract, teas, tablets, and capsules. Dandelion can be found alone or combined with other dietary supplements.

Parts Used

• Leaves
• Roots
• Tops

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Bioflavonoids
• Biotin
• Calcium
• Choline
• Fats
• Folic acid
• Gluten
• Gum
• Inositol
• Inulin
• Iron
• Lactupicrine
• Linolenic acid
• Magnesium
• Niacin
• Pantothenic acid
• Para-aminobenzoic acid
• Phosphorus
• Potash
• Proteins
• Resin
• Sulfur
• Zinc
• Vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E

Action and Uses

The diuretic properties of dandelion leaves cause your body to produce more urine. The leaves are employed to increase hunger and aid in metabolism. The blossom of the dandelion contains antioxidants. The defense system may also benefit from dandelion. Dandelion promotes the generation of bile and cleanses the liver and circulation. As a stimulant, it is also employed. Dandelion contains elements that lower blood uric acid and lipids. Additionally, dandelion helps the kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and stomach work better and is beneficial for abscesses, anemia, boils, breast tumors, liver cirrhosis, fluid accumulation, hepatitis, jaundice, and arthritis. Finally, dandelion may help in the avoidance of breast cancer and age spots. If pulled up in the beginning of spring, the roots can be consumed as a vegetable with a taste similar to turnips. Avoid consuming too many roots because they are rumored to have dehydrating and draining effects.

Dandelion is typically regarded as secure. The touch of dandelion may cause an allergic response in some individuals. Others might develop oral ulcers. Dandelion should be avoided if you have an allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, chamomile, yarrow, daisies, or iodine. Dandelion can raise stomach acid in some individuals and lead to heartburn. The epidermis may also become irritated. Before consuming dandelion, patients with renal, gallbladder, or gallstone issues should speak with their physicians. Dandelion may make hemorrhaging more likely, particularly if you already take blood thinners like aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel. (Plavix).

Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

Datura-Datura stramonium

About

About nine varieties of toxic flowering plants belong to the genus datura, also known as thorn apple. They are part of the nightshade family, Solanaceae. Some Datura varieties are harvested for their medicinal properties, while others are grown for their eye-catching blooms. In temperate regions of the globe, many are regarded as weeds and frequently develop along roadsides and in other disturbed environments. The related genus Brugmansia, which includes a number of ornamental trees and bushes known as angel's trumpets, and members of the Datura family are frequently mistaken. Large trumpet-shaped blooms are a distinguishing feature of the datura species, which are herbaceous spreading annuals or short-lived perennials. The fruit, a spiny shell with many seeds, is produced by the aromatic blooms, which can be white, yellow, pink, or purple. Simple, alternately organized leaves with lobed, wavy, or complete edges are present.

The media in the United States reported on some cases, mostly involving teenagers and young adults, who either died or became severely sick after ingesting datura. The frequency of datura poisoning is sporadic, with a cluster of poisoning cases in the 1990s and 2000s. The plant has several therapeutic applications, including the ability to reduce inflammation in all plant sections, activation of the central nervous system, respiratory clearing, therapy of skin and dental infections, alopecia, and toothaches.

This shrub is highly poisonous and hallucinatory. Consumption of any portion of the plant may produce a severe anticholinergic response, which rarely creates diagnostic challenges and may result in toxicity.

Parts Used

• Fruits
• Leaves
• Seeds
• Roots

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Alkaloids
• Ash
• Atropine
• Calcium
• Carbohydrates
• Daturalone
• Daturadiol
• Fastunine
• Fats
• Fiber
• Flavonoids
• Glycosides
• Hyoscine
• Iron
• Oxalate
• Phenol
• Phlobatanins
• Phosphorus
• Phytochemical
• Potassium
• Scopolamine
• Tannin
• Tropine

Action and Uses

Datura leaves are used to treat headaches, and vaporized leaf tea is used to treat gout and rheumatism discomfort. Asthma and bronchitis are treated by inhaling the fumes produced by the smoldering leaf. Steaming the portion of the datura plant over water containing foliage is the European treatment for hemorrhoids. To cure dandruff and thinning hair, the fruit liquid is applied to the skin. Additionally, it is used to soothe hurtful cuts and ulcers. Datura seeds and foliage were also used to cure sleeplessness in hysterical and psychotic patients. Datura was once a popular psychedelic. Additionally, it is used to relieve asthmatic bronchial spasm and the calm muscles of the bronchial tract. Datura was reportedly taken inwardly to cure melancholy, epilepsy, and insanity. Externally, it serves as the foundation for burn and arthritis ointments. Hemorrhoids and Parkinson's disease are two other conditions it is used to address. After cooking, its leaves can be applied to relieve discomfort. The acrid narcotic herb helps the body recover by reducing discomfort. The plant's seeds have the strongest therapeutic properties.

The herb is applied topically as a poultice to cure acute pain, abscesses, and fistulas. The herb contains scopolamine as well, making it a strong cholinergic-blocking psychedelic that has been used to soothe schizoid patients. Hyoscyamine and atropine found in its foliage make them a potent source of mind-altering drugs. Because Datura seeds have analgesic, anthelmintic, and anti-inflammatory properties, they are used to treat toothaches, stomach and intestinal discomfort brought on by worm infection, and fever brought on by inflammation. Its fruit liquid is administered to the head to cure hair loss and dandruff. The developing plant serves as a bug deterrent, shielding nearby plants from pests. The leaves are deadly if consumed internally because they contain strong chemicals like atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine.

Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

Devil's Claw-Harpagophytum procumbens

About

Devil's claw, harpagophytum procumbens, a plant native to southern Africa, refers to the small hooks that coat its fruit. Devil's claw has traditionally been used to address aches, fevers, liver and renal issues, and malaria. Additionally, it has been utilized in ointments to treat blisters, ulcers, and other skin issues.
Early in the 20th century, devil's claw was brought to Europe, where the desiccated roots have been used to increase appetite, treat heartburn, and lessen discomfort and inflammation. Devil's claw is a popular remedy used today in Germany and France to treat headaches, arthritic pain, and low back pain. Studies on animals and in culture indicate that devil's claw can reduce inflammation. Devil's claw doesn't smell, but it does taste acrid because of the ingredients it includes. It is a leafy plant with roots and branches that spread out. Out of the primary roots, it has additional roots known as tubers. The bulbs and stems are used medicinally. Devil's claw root can be found as dried or fresh in skin ointments, pills, tablets, liquid extracts, and liquid forms. Dried devil's claw root can also be used to make teas or infusions.

Parts Used

• Bulbs
• Roots
• Stems
• Tubers

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Aromatic acid
• Calcium
• Carbohydrates
• Chlorogenic acid
• Cinnamic acid
• Flavonoids
• Glucosides
• Harpagide
• Harpagoside
• Iron
• Kaempferol
• Luteolin
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Monoterpene
• Oleanolic acid
• Phosphorus
• Phytosterols
• Potassium
• Procumbide
• Protein
• Selenium
• Silicon
• Sodium
• Sugar
• Triterpenes
• Verbascoside
• Zinc

Action and Uses

Devil's claw appears to lessen lower back discomfort when taken orally. Devil's claw appears to function roughly on par with some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications also known as NSAIDs. The discomfort associated with osteoarthritis may be lessened by ingesting devil's claw alone, in combination with other ingredients, or in addition to NSAIDs. Some individuals who take devil's claw appear to be able to reduce the amount of NSAIDs they take to relieve discomfort. For the majority of people who consume it for up to 12 weeks, devil's claw may be safe. Diarrhea and dyspepsia are the most typical adverse reactions. Furthermore, allergic cutaneous responses have been linked to devil's claw. Blood pressure, pulse, and heart rate may all be impacted by devil's claw. People who suffer from cardiac and circulatory issues may be harmed. Before beginning devil's claw, consult your healthcare professional if you have one of these diseases. 

Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

Dill-Anethum graveolens

About

Asian and European recipes both use the plant dill, Anethum graveolens. The plant, which is also known as dill weed, has thin stalks with alternate tender leaves and dark, flat, oval seeds. Dill seeds are more fragrant than the leaves, which have a mild lemon flavor that is comparable to caraway seeds. The foliage have a sweet, grassy taste. Dill is frequently used as a herb and spice to enhance the taste of different foods. It frequently goes with fish, potatoes, and condiments made of yogurt. In addition to its cooking applications, dill is nutrient-rich and has long been used to address a variety of conditions, such as digestive problems, baby colic, and poor breath.

Parts Used

• Essential oil
• Leaves
• Seeds

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Calcium
• Flavonoids
• Iron
• Manganese
• Tannins
• Terpenoids
• Vitamin A, C
• Vitamin B complex

Action and Uses

The vitamins in dill are abundant and have positive health effects. For instance, 100 grams of the herb increase your consumption of vitamin A. A fat-soluble nutrient called vitamin A supports good eyesight, skin, immune system, development, and reproductive function. Additionally, you'll experience a significant increase in vitamin C, a crucial antioxidant that supports your body's ability to fight illness. Dill may have an anti-diabetic impact, mainly because of its antioxidant advantages, according to research reports. Based on previous studies, dill's essential oil, seed, and leaf extracts can substantially lower blood sugar, triglycerides. A research on the effects of dill consumption found that total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol levels all significantly improved, but HDL cholesterol levels did not. Additionally, dill is an excellent provider of fiber, folate, calcium for strong bones, riboflavin for cell development and function, manganese, and iron. Folate is crucial for cell division and DNA synthesis. However, the quantity of dill you ingest matters. You might not eat the entire 100-gram portion, which equates to about 2/3 cup. Many individuals consume much less of these nutrients and will receive much lower amounts of them.

 Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

Dong quai-Angelica sinensis

About

For more than a thousand years, China, Korea, and Japan have used the root of Dong quai, Angelica sinensis, as a flavoring, tonic, and medication. It is still frequently utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, typically in combination with other plants. Dong quai is frequently prescribed by TCM doctors to address women's reproductive issues like dysmenorrhea or uncomfortable periods as well as to increase blood flow. Dong quai is occasionally referred to as the "female ginseng." Dong quai is sometimes recommended as a treatment for menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, irregular menstruation cycles, sporadic periods, and cramps, despite the fact that there are few scientific studies on it. Dong quai grows at high altitudes in the cold, damp, mountains of China, Korea, and Japan. This fragrant, perennial plant a member of the celery family has smooth purplish stems and umbrella-shaped clusters of white flowers and winged fruits in July and August. The yellow-brown thick-branched roots are used as medicine. It takes 3 years for the plant to reach maturity. The root is harvested and made into tablets, powders, and other medicinal forms. Dong quai is available in a number of formats, such as pills and powders. It is injected in a hospital or health facility in China and Japan. Injections shouldn't be used at home. Dong quai ought to be kept in a cold, dry location.

Parts Used

• Roots

Chemical and Nutrient Content

• Alcohols
• Cadinene
• Carotene
• Carvacrol
• Coumarin
• Essential oil
• Isosafrol
• Safrol
• Sesquiterpenes
• Sucrose
• Vitamin A, B12, E

Action and Uses

Dong quai increases the effects of ovarian and testicular hormones. Used in the treatment of female problems such as hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, and vaginal dryness. Dong quai has also been traditionally used to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate menstrual cramps. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety. According to research, when it comes to managing premature ejaculation, dong quai has been used in traditional medicine. Before physical contact, when mixed with other substances and applied to the genitalia' outer epidermis. To address this disease, dong quai may have been used in a particular preparation along with other herbs or extracts. Dong quai for human use has only been the subject of a few investigations. Some laboratory studies indicate that dong quai includes substances that might aid in reducing discomfort, opening blood vessels, and stimulating and relaxing the uterine muscles. More research is required to determine the efficacy and safety of dong quai. Coumarin, a key component of drugs like Warfarin that clear the blood, is found in dong quai. Taking dong quai may make hemorrhaging more likely if you are taking Warfarin or other herbs such as garlic. Taking dong quai is not advised and may raise the chance of miscarriage for those who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Additionally, it should not be taken by women who are nursing, using oral birth control, or taking hormone replacement treatment.
Furthermore, some individuals may have an allergy or sensitivity to dong quai.

Herbs can interact negatively with medicines, nutritional additives, and other plants, as well as with other plants. These justifications warrant cautious herb consumption under the direction of your qualified healthcare practitioner.

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