Herbs and Their Uses: G

Published on 17 April 2023 at 08:40

By: Maliyah Franklin M.S.

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Galangal-Alpinia Galanga/Alpine Calcarata

About

The ginger family includes the perennial plant known as galangal, which has its roots in ancient China. Up to 2 meters tall, it currently flourishes in Thailand, China, Europe, India, and Asia. It tastes harsh, peppery, and sweet and is extremely aromatic. It's possible to mix up keneur and galangal due to their similar properties. Especially in Thai and Indonesian recipes, the root galangal is frequently utilized in cuisine throughout Southeast Asia. It is also renowned for having therapeutic benefits, such as the capacity to promote healthy digestion and lessen inflammation. An early Christian mystic called the herb "spice of life." Galangal is distinguished by the vivid red veins visible in its white petals. The botanical name for the plant is Kulanjan in India. The herb is used in Russia as a foundation for vinegar and liquor tastes. This plant is available as a powder, tea, decoction, infusion, and poultice.

Parts Used

  • Dried rhizomes

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Bisabolene
  • Cadinene
  • Camphor
  • Cineole
  • D pinene
  • Essential oil
  • Eucalyptole
  • Eugenol
  • Farnese
  • Flavonoids
  • Galanga
  • Kaempferol
  • Limonene
  • Linalool
  • Methyl cinnamate
  • Pinene
  • Resins
  • Selinene
  • Tannins
  • Terpene
  • Terpinene
  • Vitamin A, C
  • Volatile oil

Actions and Uses

Galangal has many medicinal actions and uses. The spice of life has the ability to act as an aphrodisiac and osteogenic. Its chemical properties give it the ability to be antibacterial, anticancer, antifungal, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and antitumor. Galangal can also be a blood purifier, bronchial relaxant, cardiotonic, digestive stimulant, diuretic, expectorant, hepatoprotective, and laxative. Galangal is a versatile herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments. Its wide range of medicinal properties makes it a popular ingredient in herbal remedies and supplements.

Although the digestive benefits of galangal are well recognized, there are numerous other applications for this perennial herb. The chemical acetoxychavicol acetate possesses qualities that aid in the battle against skin cancer, blood cancer, lung disease, and breast cancer. Its digestive qualities aid in enhancing hunger, easing digestion, and producing more digestive juices. Moreover, it aids in the treatment of diarrhea, morning sickness, and motion sickness. Galangal is also known to be useful in treating multiple sclerosis and abnormalities of the menstrual cycle, according to studies. The anti-inflammatory effects of galangal help relieve chest congestion, rheumatism, and arthritis. It increases resistance to pathogens, viruses, fevers, and pain. The plant also has abilities to heal and safeguard the mouth. Among them is using galangal as a mouthwash to treat gingivitis, sores, and mouth inflammation to prevent foul breath.

If you have GERD or suffer with peptic ulcers you should avoid consuming galangal in form. Taken in excessive amount may lead to a upset stomach, diarrhea, and feeling fatigue. May have acute oral toxcity.


Garlic: Allium Sativum/ Allium Controversum

About

Garlic has been used in cooking for many years and holds a host of medicinal properties. It is the root of tuberous plants. It is a biennial herb that grows in cold, moist climates. Garlic belongs to the Liliaceae family, and the herb originated in Central Asia. The plant now grows in the Mediterranean region. You can combine garlic with many spices and herbs, including but not limited to: aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, castor, catnip, cayenne, cinnamon, clove, echinacea, fennel, galangal, and tea tree essential oil. The biennial herb has a pungent, bitter, salty, astringent, and sweet taste. You can find fresh garlic, garlic powder, and garlic oil. You can use garlic in the following forms: tincture, extract, tea, infusion, syrup, and capsule.

Parts Used

  • Bulb
  • Clove
  • Fresh plant
  • Oil

Chemical and Nutrient Contents

  • Allicin
  • Alliin
  • Amino acids
  • Anthocyanins
  • Allyl disulfides
  • Beta-carotene
  • Beta-sitosterol
  • Caffeic acid
  • Calcium
  • Carbohydrates
  • Copper
  • Dietary fiber
  • Enzymes
  • Essential oil
  • Germanium
  • Glutathione
  • Fat
  • Ferulic acid
  • Folate
  • Folic acid
  • Glucose
  • Glycosides
  • Iron
  • Kaempferol
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Minerals
  • Oleanolic acid
  • Phosphorus
  • Phytochemicals
  • Potassium
  • Prebiotics
  • Protein
  • Riboflavin
  • Saponins
  • Selenium
  • Sodium
  • Sulfur
  • Testosterone
  • Vitamin A, B, B1, B6, B12, C, E, K

Actions and Uses

Garlic can be consumed in a variety of ways with distinct health advantages. A healthy immune system is aided by fresh garlic. It has the ability to strengthen immunity. Colds, the flu, sore throats, bronchitis, malaria, and MRSA infections can all be treated with garlic. Moreover, it has antibacterial qualities. It can be used as a local or systemic antibiotic. The antibacterial properties of chopped garlic treat bacterial diseases all over the body. Garlic loses its antimicrobial properties when it is cooked. Sliced garlic that has been exposed to the air for 10 minutes is anti-cancer. In order to maintain the health advantages of garlic, it is advised to add it toward the end of cooking or to let it sit after cutting before using it raw in foods like salads or dressings.

Breast cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, stomach cancer, anal cancer, and kidney cancer can all be treated with the aid of these qualities. Garlic also has antihypertensive qualities, which means it can benefit people with high blood pressure. Garlic has the capacity to relieve arthritis, itching, chest pain, and joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics. Garlic has been shown to be effective in treating a number of conditions, including but not limited to: angina, ear diseases, mental disorders, stroke, heavy metal toxicity, and impaired cell proliferation. Due to its capacity to lower the synthesis of carcinogenic chemicals and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, garlic has also been proven to offer potential anti-cancer qualities.

Overdosing on garlic has the potential to be fatal. Moreover, it could irritate and harm the digestive system. Avoid taking excessive quantities of garlic if you are pregnant or nursing. Avoid eating garlic if you have any throat or mouth conditions. Garlic contains a compound called allicin which can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat and mouth. In addition, some people may have an allergic reaction to garlic, which can cause symptoms such as swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing.


Gentian: Gentiana Lutea

About

A perennial flowering plant, gentian, is apart of the Gentianaceae family. This perennial herb originated in Central and Southern Europe. Gentian got its name from Illyrian's king Gentius. The herb is now grown in Asia and Europe up to 2 meters. If you are planning to plant gentian it is best done in the spring or autumn time. The root of gentian holds majority of the medicinal properties. Often times gentian is confused with white hellebore. Gentian root can be dried, a capsule, tea, tincture, and extracts. 

Parts Used

  • Rhizome
  • Roots
  • Whole plant

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Alkaloids
  • Caffeic acid
  • Calcium
  • Gentiamarine
  • Gentiopicrin
  • Inositol
  • Insulin
  • Iron
  • Limonene
  • Linalool
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Mucilage
  • Mesogentiogen
  • Niacin
  • Pectin
  • Phenolic acid
  • Phosphorous
  • Potassium
  • Predominantly gentian
  • Protogentiogenin
  • Selenium
  • Sinapinic acid
  • Sugar
  • Sulfur
  • Swertiamarin
  • Tannins
  • Triterpenes
  • Vitamin B2, B3, B12, C, F
  • Xanthone pigment
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

Gentian is most effective for digestive issues. It improves digestion process, stimulate bile juice, stimulate stomach acids, and increase appetite. It also alleviates symptoms of dyspepsia and flatulence. It helps with bloating, diarrhea, and counteracts gastrointestinal disease. Furthermore, the most effective properties of gentian is acting as an antibiotic and antioxidant. These properties have the ability to combat bacterial infections, otitis, and bronchitis. Its antioxidant properties has the ability to clear up free radicals.

On the other hand gentian, can act as an anti-inflammatory, antimalaria, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, blood purifier, heart tonic, hepatoprotective, immunity booster, laxative, liver tonic, stimulant, stomachic, and vulnerary. The anti-inflammatory properties causes wound healing and sore throat. The vulnerary properties help cures psoriasis. The blood purifying effects helps cleanse the blood and helps with poor blood circulation. If you are suffering with dandruff, baldness, and weak hair gentian may improves these concerns. 

Consuming gentian in high doses may cause high blood pressure. If you are pregnant or breast feeding avoid consuming the herb. Nausea and vomiting may occur. Allergic reactions may apply.  


Ginger: Zingiber Officinale, Amomum Zingiber

About

Zingiber officinale is a plant, and ginger is its root. It has medicinal qualities as well as common uses as a spice in cooking, including anti-inflammatory and digestive advantages. It is a perennial plant with Southeast Asian roots. It now flourishes in the United States, China, India, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia. In temperate, tropical, and subtropical climates, ginger plants can reach a height of 1.5 meters. Ginger is thought to work best when it is moist or dried. Whether ginger is dry or wet, both have therapeutic benefits. Ginger can be consumed in juice, powder, oil, dried form, or wet form.

Parts Used

  • Rhizomes
  • Roots
  • Oil

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Acrid resin
  • Aluminum
  • Amino acid
  • Ash
  • B pinene
  • Beta-carotene
  • Beta-sitosterol
  • Bisabolene
  • Borneol
  • Caffeic acid
  • Calcium
  • Camphene
  • Camphor
  • Capsaicin
  • Carbohydrates
  • Chlorogenic acid
  • Choline
  • Cineole
  • Citral
  • Copper
  • Essential oil
  • Eucalyptol
  • Fat
  • Ferulic acid
  • Flavonoids
  • Folate
  • Folic acid
  • Gingerol
  • Histamine
  • Iron
  • Inositol
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Pantothenic acid
  • Para-aminobenzoic acid
  • Phellandrene
  • Phytosterol
  • Potassium
  • Protein
  • Sesquiterpene
  • Silicone
  • Selenium
  • Sugar
  • Vitamin A, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, E
  • Volatile oil
  • Zinc
  • Zingerone
  • Zingiberene

Actions and Uses

More than 5,000 years ago, ginger was used to treat a wide range of illnesses. Before being utilized for its therapeutic benefits, it was a flavoring agent. In addition to being antiseptic and antispasmodic, ginger has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. As a synergist and testosterone booster, it can also be useful. Although ginger can also act as a whole-body antibiotic, anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, aphrodisiac, blood thinner, brain enhancer, immunity booster, liver tonic, and stimulant, these effects are less potent than those described in the preceding sentence. Although ginger is least effective, it is still effective as an antidepressant, antihistamine, antimicrobial, blood purifier, cardio tonic, decongestant, expectorant, memory aid, and muscle relaxant.

Ginger can treat a variety of health issues because of its numerous therapeutic properties. Helping with allergies, hay fever, nausea, tendonitis, and vomiting is the most efficient treatment. Sports injuries like fractures and sprains can be healed by it. It also aids in the treatment of joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatism, and arthritis. Moreover, ginger helps promote circulation, clear the intestines, and lessen spasms. Ginger is good at lowering fat by 27% and regulating triglycerides. Moreover, it can lower blood pressure and lower harmful cholesterol. In addition, ginger can fight many cancers. They include ovarian, intestine, and colon cancers. Ginger is effective at treating a variety of pains, including headaches, migraines, backaches, and fevers.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid taking ginger oil. If you are taking anticoagulants, have gallstone problems, or have diabetes, avoid the use of ginger. If taken in large doses, it may cause irritation and stomach distress. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking ginger supplements, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications. Additionally, consuming ginger in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet is generally considered safe for most people.


Ginkgo: Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo

About

Ginkgo is a perennial tree that belongs to the Ginkgoaceae family. Originating in China and Korea, this tree is used medicinally. Kaemphor Englebert was the first European to discover ginkgo in the 1600s. Linnaeus gave the tree a new name in 1771. Ginkgo was introduced to other nations in 1784 by William Hamilton. In temperate and Mediterranean regions, gingko grows. Ginkgo can be grown up to 35 meters in height in North America, Asia, China, Europe, Japan, and the Northern Hemisphere. Ginkgo is available in the following forms: oral pill, tea, tincture, and extract from dried leaves. The flavor of ginkgo is acidic, sweet, and bitter. Currently, ginkgo extract's therapeutic qualities are the main topic of research.

Parts Used

  • Leaves
  • Nuts

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Amino acids
  • Beta-carotene
  • Bilobalides
  • Bioflavonoids
  • Calcium
  • Carbohydrates
  • Chromium
  • Copper
  • Crude proteins
  • Essential oil
  • Fat
  • Flavonoids
  • Flavanonols
  • Ginkgolides
  • Glycosides
  • Iron
  • Kaempferol
  • Lignans
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Myristic acid
  • Niacin
  • Phenolic acid
  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium
  • Proanthocyanidins
  • Procyanidins
  • Protein
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin A, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

The medicinal benefits of ginkgo are numerous. Ginkgo biloba is most famous and useful for its memory-boosting properties. Ginkgo can also be a nootropic, cardiotonic, antioxidant, antiviral, and brain booster. The perennial tree is least effective but still effective as an adaptogen, anti-aging, anti-anxiety, anti-arthritis, antibacterial, whole-body antibiotic, anti-cancer, anti-depressant, anti-tumor, aphrodisiac, immunity-booster, neuroprotective, and tissue enhancer.

As a result, ginkgo can treat a wide range of medical conditions. This tree can promote alertness, attentiveness, and intellect. Moreover, it shields the neural tissue. Ginkgo accomplishes this via acting as an antioxidant, boosting metabolic rate, and blocking neurotransmitters that inhibit enzyme synthesis. By increasing the amount of oxygen and blood sugar reaching the nerve cells, ginkgo can help enhance the central nervous system. Moreover, it can shield the hippocampus and stop the degeneration of dendritic connections. Furthermore, it can shield the brain from oxidative and toxic damage. Ginkgo, on the other hand, may be helpful for conditions like asthma, eczema, as well as heart and kidney issues. Blood flow to the brain and extremities can be increased thanks to its ability to control and tone blood vessel flexibility.

Ginkgo trees produce fruit and seeds that are extremely toxic. Long-term usage of excessive doses might result in internal bleeding, headaches, vision issues, and dry mouth. When used with aspirin, coumadin, or warfarin, ginkgo poses a risk of bleeding. See your healthcare professional if you have a blood pressure or blood sugar condition. Avoid ginkgo 36 hours before the scheduled surgery if you intend to have one.


Ginseng: Panax Ginseng

Ginseng

About

Ginseng is a diminutive perennial plant that can reach a height of 80 centimeters. Ginseng comes in many different varieties, but in this article we'll focus on the Korean kind. Ginseng has gained popularity as a supplement since the 16th century. Ginseng is a root that originated in China and Korea and has a bittersweet flavor. China, East Asia, Korea, and Southeast Asia are now the regions where ginseng can be found. Ginseng should be grown for 4-6 weeks to achieve maximum effectiveness. Aloe vera, astragalus, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, eleuthero, and echinacea are among the herbs that can be combined with ginseng. More than 35 nations market ginseng.

Parts Used

  • Roots

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Acidic polysaccharides
  • aluminum
  • Amino acids
  • Arabinose
  • Calcium
  • Carbohydrates
  • Citric Acid
  • Cobalt
  • Copper
  • Eleuthero sides
  • Ginsenosides
  • Glycans
  • Flavonoids
  • Folic acid
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Niacin
  • Peptides
  • Polysaccharides
  • Saponins
  • Selenium
  • Resin
  • Riboflavin
  • Vitamin B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B12, C, E
  • Volatile oil
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

Ginseng has a variety of medicinal uses, including those for adaptogen, anti-aging, antidepressant, antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, memory booster, stimulant, tonic, and trophorestorative. Furthermore, it functions as an immune system builder, liver tonic, relaxant, sedative, and detoxicant. And finally, ginseng can function as an antibacterial, local antibody, whole body antibody, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-tumor, antiviral, blood thinner, brain enhancer, cardio tonic, and muscle relaxant. These actions still work, despite not being quite as effective as those mentioned in the previous clause.

For covalence, debility, diabetes, drowsiness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome, ginseng is the most effective treatment. The immune system is strengthened, lung health is encouraged, and appetite is aroused. Furthermore, it helps with circulatory issues and bronchitis. Colds and various flu strains can be successfully treated with ginseng. It can also assist in the fight against multiple sclerosis, obesity, schizophrenia, cancer, Alzheimer's, fibromyalgia, heart disease, high blood pressure, and tumors. The three types of cancer that ginseng is most frequently used to treat are colon, stomach, and blood cancers. The discomfort and pain of chemotherapy can also be lessened by it. In addition to defending the body against radiation exposure, ginseng can help with cocaine withdrawal. The reproductive and adrenal glands may also benefit from it.

Ginseng has quite a few side effects that we will discuss. Suspend ginseng if you experience euphoria, anxiety, breast pain, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, headache, menstrual problems, mood swings, rashes, itching, hypertension, restlessness, a nose bleed, or vaginal bleeding. If you take large doses of ginseng, you may experience irritability, edema, diarrhea, blurred vision, bleeding, seizures, dry mouth, and vomiting. If you are experiencing a fever, sore throat, tapeworms, or constipation, avoid taking ginseng. If you are suffering from bipolar disorder, have had breast cancer in the past, or are taking anticoagulants, do not consume ginseng. You should take ginseng with food and consult your health care provider if you're hypotensive. Ginseng interacts with high blood pressure drugs, calcium channel blockers, heart medications, blood thinners, antiplatelet agents, stimulants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Consult with your health care provider before consuming. If you plan on having surgery, stop consuming ginseng 7–10 days before your scheduled surgery.


Goldenseal: Hydrastis Canadensis

About

The buttercup family, or Ranunculaceae family in botanical terms, includes goldenseal. It is a perennial plant with North American and Canadian roots. It can be found growing in subtropical areas of Canada, the United States, and India. There are several different ways to purchase goldenseal, including tincture, decoction, powder, tea, extract, juice, capsule, and lozenge. You can mix Korean ginseng, chamomile, and echinacea with goldenseal. Additionally, it's frequently advised to alternate between goldenseal and echinacea to boost the immune system.

Parts Used

  • Rhizomes
  • Roots

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Albumin
  • B-complex vitamin
  • Berberine
  • Beta-carotene
  • Biotin
  • Calcium
  • Chlorine
  • Choline
  • Chlorogenic acid
  • Cobalt
  • Copper
  • Essential oil
  • Fats
  • Hydrastine
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Para-aminobenzoic acid
  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium
  • Resins
  • Selenium
  • Starch
  • Sugar
  • Vitamin A, B2, B3, B12, C, E, F
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

The three most potent properties of goldenseal are oxytocin, immunity-boosting, and antimicrobial. This indicates that goldenseal can combat different bacterial illnesses. Moreover, it can keep the body's defenses against disease strong. Finally, by inducing uterine contractions during labor, the golden seal can be incredibly beneficial. Then it has antibacterial, antioxidant, cardiotonic, and diuretic properties. Goldenseal also functions as an adaptogen, local antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antidiabetic, tonic for the brain, trophorestorative, and uterine stimulant.

These activities make goldenseal particularly useful in treating a wide range of medical conditions. Arrhythmia, bone infections, constipation, food poisoning, goiter, and HIV/AIDS are among the conditions that goldenseal is best at treating. Moreover, it works well against some tumors. They include malignancies of the breast, lungs, skin, cervix, and liver. Goldenseal can also be used to treat mucous membranes, enhance digestion, and prevent heart disease. Insect repellent is made from goldenseal root. Goldenseal should be used when you first have a cough, the flu, or a sore throat. In over-the-counter medications such ear drops, feminine hygiene products, eyewash formulations, cold and flu treatments, allergy relief, and laxatives, goldenseal can be found.

Always take the recommended dosage of goldenseal. It could cause allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties and throat issues. If you get hives, skin irritability, or swelling in the mouth and throat, stop taking goldenseal. Inflammation of the vaginal mucous membrane may result from it. If you have ragweed allergies, stay away from goldenseal. Avoid using goldenseal if you have high blood pressure, a heart condition, diabetes, glaucoma, or are pregnant or nursing. Drugs that are antipsychotic may interact with goldenseal.


Gotu Kola: Centella Asiatica, Hydrocotyle Asiatica

Gotu Kola

About

A little perennial plant that thrives in warm regions, gotu kola is known as the herb of longevity. This herb has a sweet, sour, bitter, and caustic taste and can grow up to 20 centimeters in height. India is where gotu kola first appeared. The current distribution of this herb includes Asia, Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Malaya, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Sri Lanka. This herb has a reputation for promoting calmness. Gotu kola is available as juice, tea, supplements, tinctures, and decoctions.

Parts Used

  • Dried leaves
  • Nuts 
  • Roots
  • Seeds

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Alkaloids
  • Amino acids
  • Beta-carotene
  • Beta-sitosterol
  • Calcium
  • Carbohydrates
  • Cardiac glycosides
  • Catechol
  • Collagen
  • Fat
  • Flavonoids
  • Glycosides
  • Iron
  • Kaempferol
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Niacin
  • Petic acid
  • Phenolic acid
  • Phosphorus
  • Phy sterols
  • Polysaccharides
  • Potassium
  • Protein
  • Riboflavin
  • Saponins
  • Selenium
  • Sodium
  • Steroids
  • Sterols
  • Sugar
  • Tannins
  • Theobromine
  • Vitamin A, B, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, K
  • Volatile oil
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

The most powerful activities of gotu kola are as a memory enhancer, nootropic, and trophorestorative. This enables the body to improve brain memory, maintain attention throughout the day, and nourish and restore equilibrium throughout the body. Next, gotu kola has adaptogenic, antianxiety, antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antifungal, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antistress, antitumor properties, and can be used as a blood purifier, heart tonic, diuretic, immunity booster, laxative, and neuroprotective properties.

Gotu kola is particularly useful for treating anxiety, burns, debility, leprosy, leukoderma, lupus, and wounds. It can treat Alzheimer's, forgetfulness, and other brain problems due to its brain-enhancing characteristics. Gotu kola can also be used to treat respiratory issues such as bronchitis, colds, flu, TB, and H1N1. Mental diseases such as bipolar disorder, neurological disorder, ADHD, depression, and anxiety might also benefit from it. Topically, gotu kola can be used to treat hair and skin disorders such as baldness, hair difficulties, and frizzy hair. It can be used to the skin to treat wounds, burn marks, cellulite, stretch marks, and skin disorders. Gotu kola nourishes the nerves and aids in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, endometriosis, and connective tissue disease.

When used topically, it has the potential to produce dermatitis. Long-term usage can result in liver damage, coma, headache, nausea, and dizziness. Consume dried coriander to mitigate these effects. If you are pregnant, you should avoid using gotu kola.


Gravel Root: Eupatorium Purpureum, Eupatoria Delphus Purpures

Gravel Root

About

Gravel root is a perennial plant native to North America. It may be found growing in cold temperatures in Ontario, New Hampshire, Florida, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. This plant belongs to the sunflower family and has a fragrant, astringent, and bitter flavor. Gravel root is available as a tea, tincture, or capsule.

Parts Used

  • Bulb
  • Flowers
  • Fresh root
  • Rhizomes

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Euparin
  • Eupurpurin
  • Flavonoids
  • Lactones
  • Resins
  • Tannins

Actions and Uses

Gravel root's most potent effects are antrhemunatic, astringent, diuretic, heptaoprotective, immunity-boostering, nervine, stimulant, and tonic. These are the ways that gravel root works to treat gout and diabetic insipidus. Gravel root is also effective in treating issues with fluid retention and prostate illnesses. UTIs are also treatable with gravel root.

Gravel root's medicinal benefits can also treat a variety of other conditions, including arthritis, bedwetting, chicken pox, dengu, diabetes, problematic menstruation, edema, headache, hysteria, impotence, indigestion, and kidney stones.

Stomach aches, motion sickness, and liver issues are the most typical adverse effects. As usual, allergic responses are possible.


Green Tea: Camellia Sinensis

Geen Tea

About

Green tea is one the most well-known and popular teas as an alternative for coffee. This herb is a part of the theaceae family. Green tea is an evergreen tea bush the grows up to 1 meter tall. This evergreen tea bush originated in China and grow in tropical and subtropical regions. You can find green tea in Asia, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, and Tibet. To produce green tea the leaves are steamed, pan fried, and dried. You can consume up to eight cups a day. Green tea can be combined with forsythia and ginger. 

Parts Used

  • Flowers
  • Leaves

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Alkaloids
  • Amino acids
  • Astragalin
  • Beta-carotene
  • Bioflavonoids
  • Caffeic acid
  • Caffeine
  • Calcium
  • Catechin
  • Epigallocatechin
  • Flavonoids
  • Fluoride
  • Gallic acid
  • Iron
  • Kaempferol
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Phosphorus
  • Polysaccharides
  • Potassium
  • Quercetin
  • Tannins
  • Theophylline
  • Vitamin B2, B3, B5, B12, C, K
  • Volatile oil
  • Zinc

Actions and Uses

The most effective action of green tea is working as a thermogenic. You can also find that green tea works to be antibacterial, antimalarial, antioxidant, detoxicant, immunity booster, liver tonic, and recuperative. It is also a anticancer, antitumor, cardio tonic, decongestant, stimulant, skin toner, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective. 

Green tea is super effective at controlling high blood pressure. It is most effective at helping with rosacea of the skin. Green tea is highly effective in helping with anal,  bladder, breast, blood, cerviacal, colon, esophageal, kidney, liver, lung, pancreatic, ovarian and skin cancer. It is also highly effective helping with diabetes, eclampsia, high cholesterol, obesity and wrinkles. Lastly, green tea is effective in curing acne, anxiety, dry mouth, dental disease, PTSD, uterine fibrosis, and metabolic syndromes. 

Avoid use during pregnancy and breast feeding. Do not exceed 2 cups a day, if suffering from anxiety disorder and irregular heart rate. In some cases it may cause constipation also.


Ground Ivy: Glechoma Hederacea

Ground Ivy

About

The perennial creeper known as ground ivy is a bitter, caustic plant. Southwest Asia and Europe are where this creeper first appeared. It arrived in North America for the first time as medicine around 1800. At the present, it flourishes across Europe, North America, and southwest Asia. The Lamiaceae family of mint plants includes ground ivy. This creeper herb preparations include teas, liquids, compresses, dried plants, and crushed leaves. To add flavor to stir-fries, salads, soups, and vegetable dishes, you can add ground ivy. The plant can also be used in conjunction with chamomile. Horses and cattle cannot consume ground ivy.

Parts Used

  • Flowers
  • Leaves
  • Stems

Chemical and Nutrient Content

  • Iron
  • Potassium
  • Pulegone
  • Terpenoids
  • Vitamin C

Actions and Uses

The functions of ground ivy that are most effective include diuretic, expectorant, anodyne, and antiphlogistic.

Precisely because of these effects, tinnitus, renal illness, and indigestion are the conditions that ground ivy is most helpful at treating. Due to the expectorant qualities of ground ivy, it can also assist in the treatment of coughs. Together with sinusitis, sore throats, throat problems, chest congestion, and bronchitis, ground ivy can also treat these conditions. The body's pain can also be reduced by it. Ground ivy may help you if you have juanitis, liver illness, or plague. In addition, this herb can be quite helpful if you have sciatica, a fistula, or heavy metal toxicity.

It is safe to avoid ground ivy if you are pregnant or nursing. Do not eat if you are currently dealing with epilepsy, renal, liver, or seizure disorders.


References

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