The Herbs

ALFALFA Medicago sativa Alfalfa leaves are rich in the green plant pigment known as chlorophyll, as well as protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, and hence has been nicknamed as the Father Of All Foods. It has developed a reputation as a natural body cleanser infection fighter and deodorizer. High in fiber, alfalfa also contains eight essential amino acids. Alfalfa is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, sulfur, sodium, potassium, chlorine and silicon, and is a good source of vitamins A, B, B6, C, D, K, and E. Traditionally, alfalfa has been used as a herbal remedy in the treatment of arthritis, gout, and rheumatism, and is thought to have a cholesterol-lowering effect. It seems to alleviate asthma and other allergies. It may act as a preventative against cancer and appears to be able to regulate high blood pressure. HORSETAIL Equisetum arvense Horsetail is said to be one of the oldest recorded plants on earth, discovered approximately 600 million years ago. It is rich in the trace element silica which aids in the absorption of calcium and is a basic element int he growth and repair of bone and tissue (strengthening bones, hair, nails, and teeth). Herbalists claim it is useful in the repair and regeneration of the damaged connective tissue associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other connective tissue disorders. Another long-standing use of horsetail has been as a mild treatment in the prevention and treatment of kidney stone formation, bacterial and inflammatory disorders of the lower urinary tract, and as a diuretic. Horsetail has been a traditional treatment for allergies, pulmonary tuberculosis, cystitis, kidney stones, water retention, fevers, eye diseases, gout, and rheumatism. LAVENDER Lavandula angustifolia In an age of extremes, lavender is essentially able to produce a balancing and harmonizing effects, by having a pronounced regulating effect on the nervous system. Stress has long been known to deplete the immune system and can bet the cause, or the precipitating agent, for all types of illness and disease. With this in mind, lavender is thought to have a restorative effect in cases of a weakened nervous system and have a calming effect on those prone to be stressed or agitated. For years herbalists have used the calming effects of lavender to treat nervousness, anxiety, worry, and depression. Lavender is used as a symptomatic treatment of stress-related conditions. It has been used for insomnia, headaches, and immune as well as digestive  problems. PASSIONFLOWER Passiflora incarnata Passionflower has found worldwide acclaim in the reduction of nervous tension, alleviating irritability and anxiety, and lowering blood pressure. It i is also used to promote restful sleep. As an antispasmodic, it has also been successfully used in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Passionflower has an overall soothing and calming effect on the entire body, offering relief from stress and stress-related headaches and pain. It has been employed in the treatment of muscle cramps, premenstrual tension, and disturbances often associated with menopause. SIBERIAN GINSENG Eleutherococcus senticosus Used in China for over 5000 years, Siberian ginseng has been used as a cure-all for a wide variety of ills. It is one of the best herbs for the heart and vascular systém, increasing blood flow to the heart and lowering blood pressure. World famous athletes seek out this superior herb for all its restorative and regenerative abilities. When used regularly, Siberian ginseng helps to regulate and harmonize the entire body by increasing the entire body´s energy and healing abilities. In Asia, Siberian ginseng is a generally accepted treatment in the care of those who have undergone surgery, severe illness, and exhaustion. It helps to prevent a wide variety of debilitating conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, and it also has the ability to normalize blood pressure. ROSEHIP Rosa canina Rosehips are one of the most natural and freely available sources of vitamin C, as well as containing other important vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Its richness in vitamin C makes it especially attractive in the fight against infections, sore throat and as a preventative measure against colds. Traditionally recommended for urinary tract infections, rheumatism, gout, kidney disease, water retention, and sciatica, as well as a general aid against exhaustion. Rosehips have a mild laxative and slightly diuretic quality. GUARANA Paullinia cupana Guarana figures prominently in the social and medicinal culture of the Amazonian Indians. The seed of Guarana has for hundreds of years been used as a general tonic and treatment for many ailments. It holds fast to the claim that it has a stimulating effect on the body, as well as having the ability to dispel pain. Guarana has also developed the reputation of being somewhat of an aphrodisiac. South Americans reportedly have used Guarana to treat a long list of ailments such as: chronic or infectious diarrhea, headaches (including migraine), pain associated with rheumatism or menstruation, water retention (using it as a diuretic or, water pill“) and hence as an aid in weight loss, fevers, malaria, heat stress and many other ailments. CARDAMOM Elettaria cardamomum For centuries as a spice, cardamom is native to southern India and Sri Lanka and is also grown in southeastern Asia and Guatemala. Currently believed to be useful in the treatment of stomach problems, cardamom seems to improve the flow of bile out of the gallbladder, thereby preventing viruses from multiplying. Herbalists also find cardamom useful against asthma, hemorrhoids, and bad breath, as well as beneficial in strengthening the body. CINNAMON Cinnamomum verum Long coveted as a healing aid stomach upset, heartburn and gas, chronic diarrhea, rheumatism, kidney ailments and abdominal pain cinnamon has been used by homeopathic medical practitioners for diarrhea, hemorrhage, and cancerous tumors. For years Asians have promoted its use against heart problems, dental pain, and urinary problems, believing that it can kill certain bacteria and fungi, improve digestion and help to regulate blood sugar. Said to fortify the immune system, cinnamon has been used to stimulate the respirátory and circulatory systems, alleviating bronchial coughs, relieve menstrual discomfort, and calm the central nervous system. RED CLOVER Trifolium pratense Red clover is rich in isoflavones, including genistein and biochanin A (an antioxidant which protects against cell aging). Used as an antibiotic, it has been used in fighting bacterial infections and dealing with kidney and liver diseases. Over the years it has been tried with some success as a tumor and cancer remedy (for breast and prostate cancer in particular). Red clover has also been used as a treatment for skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis, as it claims to cleanse the blood. Herbalists also recommend red clover for reducing uncomfortable menopausal symptoms and improving overall health, including its use as an expectorant to clear chest congestion caused by coughs, colds, asthma, and bronchitis. IRISH MOSS Chondrus crispus Harvested from the waters off the European coast, Irish moss is actually a seaweed. Rich in proteins, iodine, and other substances, many herbalists also consider it an excellent „nutritive tonic“, and traditionally it has been prescribed for ulcers, dysentery (infectious diarrhea) and other gastrointestinal disorders. Contemporary herbalists consider it a valuable soothing agent (demulcent) for dry coughs, bronchitis, tuberculosis and other upper respirátory tract ailments. It is also thought to help in the treatment and alleviation of peptic and duodenal ulcers. Considered to have anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, blood-pressure-lowering, and other potentially beneficial properties, Irish moss i is also thought to have healing properties beneficial in treating ulcers and other problems relating to the digestive system. FO-TI Polygonum multiflorum This herb has been known and honored in Asia for centuries as a tonic for kidney and liver functions and it is believed to be a natural antioxidant and free-radical scavenger. It has been shown that it has the ability to strengthen tendons, ligaments, bones, the lower back, and the knees. It also has been reported to prevent premature aging, as well as being beneficial in decreasing blood sugar levels in diabetics, and can act as a natural diuretic. High cholesterol, heart conditions, poor circulation, insomnia and chronic bronchitis are among all the conditions that Chinese Fo-Ti-Tieng alleges to help. Providing strength, resilience, and stamina. Chinese Fo-Ti-Tieng is usually recommended as a superior herb for athletes, offering increased energy while rejuvenating the body and acting as a natural anti-inflammatory. LICORICE Glycyrrhiza glabra Long ago, in China, licorice acquired the name of „The Great Detoxifier“. They believed that continuous consumption of licorice root would help to rid the body of poisons and could contribute to the body´s blood building efforts. It has since been used in many Chinese prescriptions treating dry coughs and lung disorders, asthma, sore throats, laryngitis, ulcers, as well as inflammation of the urinary and intestinal tracts. It is said that licorice root increases vital energy and that it is able to strengthen digestive and metabolic function. It is believed that licorice root „harmonizes“ the ingredients in an herbal formulation and eliminates any harshness, thus promoting a smooth activity of the herbs. Licorice is useful in the treatment of peptic ulcers, abdominal colic, stomach inflammation, colitis, and has been used as an expectorant in cases of bronchitis. BLESSED THISTLE Cnicus benedictus Throughout the years' blessed thistle has developed the reputation of being a bit of a cure-all and a potent anti-inflammatory, and it was even believed to have fought off the “great plague” in Europe. It claims to have the ability to lower fever, dissolve blood clots, control bleeding, and reduce rheumatic pain. It has also long been esteemed for controlling menstrual pain and regulating the menstrual cycle. Also believed to offer relief for those suffering from headaches and migraines. Blessed thistle seems to be genuinely useful in aiding digestive problems, aiding poor digestion (especially in the breaking down of fats), and revitalizing a sluggish liver. Blessed thistle also seems helpful in alleviating stress and depression, strengthening the heart, healing the liver, and improving circulation. FENNEL Foeniculum vulgare One of the oldest medicinal plants, fennel has reportedly been in use for over 4,000 years. Alleged to stimulate the movement of food through the stomach and intestines, it is useful as a digestive aid and seems to remedy mild spasm in the stomach and intestines, a feeling of fullness, and intestinal and gastric distress. It also claims to have a calming effect on bronchitis and is a superb remedy for coughs and stubborn mucus. In Asian medicine, fennel seed is recommended for instances of anemia, bloating, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, hernia, and skin diseases. GOTU KOLA Centella asiatica Rich in vitamins A, B, E, G, and K as well as magnesium, Gotu Kola has long been helpful in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, heart problems, dysentery, insomnia, eye conditions, exhaustion, inflammation, high blood pressure, diarrhea and problems with urination. Often referred to as „food for the brain“, taken on a regular basis, this herb has become known as the „key to longevity“ in humans and seems to be able to enhance intelligence and improve memory, increasing mental and physical power, combating stress and improving the reflexes. Gotu Kola nourishes the nervous systém, especially the brain, boosting energy levels, helping to fight depression, and reducing sleep disorders. Contemporary Western herbalists have long cited the wound-healing actions of Gotu Kola. YELLOW GENTIAN Gentiana lutea Used in the Middle Ages as an antidote for certain poisons and in the treatment of gout and rheumatism, this her bis thought to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Said to stimulate the appetite, promote secretion of salivary, gastric, liver, pancreatic and intestinal juices, it accelerates emptying of the stomach and alleviates indigestion, bloating and flatulence. In its original state, yellow gentian is a very bitter tasting herb. For centuries it has been used to stimulate the gallbladder and pancreas, as well as the stomach, improving digestive and liver function. THYME Thymus vulgaris Used from the middle ages onward for its medicinal properties, thyme´s antispasmodic and expectorant properties have been relied upon to treat chronic bronchitis (helping to loosen phlegm and combat bronchial spasm), bronchial asthma, reducing hay fever, chronic gastritis, and digestive disorders. As an antiseptic and antibacterial, thyme has been used in the treatment of inflamed sinuses, nose, throat, and larynx, and has a history as a remedy for whooping cough. YARROW Achillea millefolium Used since medieval times, yarrow was looked upon as a headache cure, its anti-inflammatory properties seeming to have the ability to reduce headaches and blood clotting. Yarrow has been one of the most popular treatments for arthritis and related conditions, alleviating painful inflammation of tissues and joints. Historically it has also been used to fight bacterial invasion and treat wounds. Yarrow has also been used to soothe and quiet the digestive system. Because of the substances contained in yarrow, a feeling of peace and relaxation have been known to be replicated thus making it effective in treating sleeping disorders. This also makes yarrow particularly beneficial in the treatment of some of the effects of menopause. BROCCOLI Brassica oleracea - italica Broccoli has the cholesterol-lowering ability. Broccoli has a strong, positive impact on our body's detoxification system. Broccoli may help us solve our vitamin D deficiency epidemic. Broccoli has an unusually strong combination of both vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene) and vitamin K. Broccoli is a particularly rich source of a flavonoid called kaempferol. Recent research has shown the ability of kaempferol to lessen the impact of allergy-related substances on our body. This kaempferol connection helps to explain the unique anti-inflammatory benefits of broccoli. GREEN TEA Camellia sinensis Camellia sinensis, commonly called the tea plant, is a plant used to make a variety of Chinese teas that have long been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. The plant has astringent properties, so it is often used for digestive ailments, to soothe insect bites, treat burns, and reduce swollen eyelids. It is also used as a tonic for the nerves. Green tea, one variety made from the plant, is touted for its antioxidant properties, making it a popular preventative for cancer. In addition, it may help people with weight loss and tooth decay. ALOE Aloe vera Aloe has played a role in herbal medicine since the 4th century BC when it was externally applied to heal wounds, bruises and skin irritations. An extract taken from the leaf was used internally as a tonic, purgative and jaundice remedy. Modern medicine is consistently finding new uses for aloe – for example; the fresh juice can be employed as a salve in the treatment of burns, sunburns and insect bites. Aloe has been commonly used as a remedy for indigestion, hardening of the arteries, diabetes, menstrual problems, infections, tumors, skin diseases, water retention, in the alleviation of arthritis and as a cleanser for the liver, kidneys, spleen, and bladder. KOREAN GINSENG Panax ginseng The Chinese have long used Korean ginseng in their health practices, claiming it has the power to balance one´s energy. It appears to have the quality to help regulate and strengthen body functions, improving metabolism, increasing both immune systém resistance and respirátory performance. Extracts from this herb have been used to provide a mental stimulant, thought to improve memory and cognitive power, and many claim that with regular use it can often reverse mental deterioration. It can also lessen the effects of menopause. Among its many uses, Korean ginseng is beneficial in treating fatigue, providing increased physical energy, increasing metabolism, hastening recovery from illness and surgery, and empowering its users with an increased alertness and power of concentration, as well as instilling a general sense of well-being and vitality. GINKGO BILOBA Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo biloba is the most powerful antioxidant known today and as such is said to help prevent degenerative conditions of the heart, arteries, eyes, ears and other organs, as well as shielding the brain from the effects of stress, toxins, and aging. For hundreds of years, traditional Chinese physicians have used ginkgo to treat impotence. It is thought that ginkgolides act by reducing inflammation around small airways in the lungs, and in doing so can offer some aid to asthma and allergy sufferers. Ginkgo is the most broad-spectrum medicine that is known today. It contains so many different active ingredients that no single one of them can account for all of the extract´s healing power. Instead, they act synergistically – creating an overall effect that is greater than the sum of all of its parts. BLADDERWRACK Fucus vesiculosus Harvested from the oceans, bladderwrack is a seaweed. It contains both iodine and carotene which are necessary for proper thyroid function. Herbalists tend to agree that bladderwrack is effective in the treatment of an underactive thyroid gland, and is also useful in the treatment of goiter. Where obesity is associated with thyroid trouble, this her bis thought to be helpful in reducing excess weight. Bladderwrack is reputed to be helpful in the relief of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation of the bladder, and as a remedy for high cholesterol and hardening of the arteries. CAYENNE Capsicum frutescens A natural stimulant, cayenne seemingly aids circulatory function by feeding the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins, and capillaries so that these regain some of the elasticity of youth, allowing the blood pressure to adjust itself to normal. It also stimulates the digestive system and has been used for treatment against stomachaches, cramps, gas, indigestion, loss of appetite, diarrhea and various fevers. Rich in carotenoids and vitamin C and E: These antioxidants are thought to protect against free radicals and reduce the risk of cancer. Cayenne also appears to be useful in enhancing the activity of various immune systems. Capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne, seems to be able to deaden pain-sensing nerves, even when the cause remains present. CONCORD GRAPES It has been determined that biologically active flavonoids: a natural substance found in red grapes (their juice, pulp, skin, seed, and stems) contain some of the most powerful antioxidants yet discovered, and have been hailed to be up to seven times more potent than those found in the vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene. Flavonoids are important for neutralizing harmful free radicals, which may be a root cause of many chronic and degenerative diseases such as certain itself. The assumption is that red grapes tend to reduce blood platelet stickiness, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly through the vessels, thereby reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. ALVEO® is an excellent daily source of pure and natural red grape juice to enhance your nutritional health. The above information is in part provided as general medical information from the American Heart Association. CANADIAN MAPLE SYRUP Canadian maple syrup is an entirely natural product that contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. It is also rich in the vitamins niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, as well as containing traces of folic acid, vitamin A, and vitamin B6. This means that maple syrup is a healthy sweetener and a wonderful ingredient that has been added to the ALVEO® formulation to provide a natural sweetness for your enjoyment! BUCKWHEAT HONEY Honey long ago acquired the reputation of providing important nutrients, high in vitamins C, B1 and B2, minerals and other nutritious components. It is also a natural sweetener and has been hailed as an energy booster. Traditional Chinese herbalists have long supported the healing properties of honey. It has been used as a soothing remedy for coughs and sore throats, as a wound-healing antiseptic, a sleeping agent, a cure for diarrhea, an asthma remedy, and as a treatment for many skin conditions.