Forage for medicine

Horseradish has a million possibilities, lots of flavour and no fat. In 1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish, there are only 6 calories, 1.4 grams of carbohydrates, 14 milligrams of sodium, 44 milligrams of potassium, 9 milligrams of calcium, 5 milligrams of phosphorous AND ZERO FAT. So an open-minded cook can put the full power of horseradish to work without adding unnecessary fat and calories.

Both the leaves and petals of the nasturtium plant are packed with nutrition, containing high levels of vitamin C. It has the ability to improve the immune system, tackling sore throats, coughs, and colds, as well as bacterial and fungal infections

They are storehouse of several vital phytochemicals, anti-oxidants, vitamins, and minerals that immensely benefit overall health and wellness.

Phytonutrients and antioxidants in the drumstick leaves play an important role that help reduce some diabetes symptoms, protect the cardiovascular and liver health, and support brain health

Nettle greens are one of the excellent sources for vitamin-K; 100 g provides 499 µg (about 416% of recommended intake). Vitamin-K has a potential role in bone health through promoting osteoblastic (bone formation and strengthening) activity. Adequate vitamin-K levels in the diet help limiting neuronal damage in the brain; thus, has an established role in the treatment of patients who have Alzheimer's disease.

Stinging nettle are abundant in B-complex group of vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), and pantothenic acid that are essential for optimum cellular enzymatic and metabolic functions.

Nettle greens are also an excellent source of minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. They pack a small amounts of other essential minerals and electrolytes such as potassium, manganese, selenium and zinc.

When applied topically, chickweed is believed to treat the following skin conditions:

Burns
Contact dermatitis
Diaper rash
Eczema
Insect bites
Itchy skin
Psoriasis
Rashes
Wounds
Splinters
Rabies
Joint pain

What are Benefits of Purslane?
Protects Cardiovascular Health
Accelerates Blood Circulation
Helps in Treatment of Some Digestive System Diseases
Prevents Cancer
Strengthens Bones
Increases Vision Power
Supports Child Development
Helps Lose Weight

13 Emerging Health Benefits of Dandelion
Highly nutritious. ...
Contains potent antioxidants. ...
May help fight inflammation. ...
May aid in blood sugar management. ...
May reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. ...
May lower blood pressure. ...
May promote liver health. ...
May aid weight loss.

Lamb’s quarters seem to have had rather limited medical application in the past, but there are some references to its uses as a medicinal herb in European and North America traditional medicine.

The plant was used traditionally as an herbal remedy for eczema, rheumatic pains, gout, colic, insect stings and bites. Also a decoction made from the herb was used to treat tooth decay.

The sap extracted from the plant stems was used to reduce freckles and treat sunburns. It has recently been confirmed that lamb’s quarters can have a positive effect on chronic wounds and that it has a mild laxative effect.
Various native North American tribes used the plant both as a food source and herbal medicine.

The Native Americans used the herb in the form of a decoction which was consumed to “improve the blood”. As a cooked vegetable the plant was used for its overall health benefits and as a preventive method for scurvy.

A decoction was used both externally for cleansing and internally for painful legs.

The leaves and stems were boiled with beans to curb stomach aches and to reduce bowel gas production caused by the beans. Furthermore, wraps were made from the leaves and used as a treatment for burns.

Health Benefits of Holy Thistle
Holy Thistle is used to detoxify and purify the body and also assist in circulation of blood. It cleanses bacteria from blood, alleviate pain, strengthen immune system and eliminate unwanted fat. The plant is useful for treating liver problems and prevents it from damage. Holy Thistle is useful for coughs, diabetes, diarrhea, lungs, kidney, menopause, headaches, hepatitis, gallbladder and constipation. The roots, stem, leaves and blossoms are used in form of tonic beverage, tea and capsules from centuries. Listed below are some other health benefits:

Supports digestion
Holy Thistle is a tonic for digestive problems. It is consumed in the form of tea before meal in order to prevent gas, indigestion and bloating. Since ancient times, it has been used to promote appetite. This herb possesses cholagogue properties that promotes bile production and also stimulates the production of gastric juice and saliva. Besides being aid for digestive system, it lowers the chances of gallstones and liver illness.

Liver health
Holy Thistle assists in detoxification of body as well as liver. The lifestyle and diet factors put strain on livers. This herb is an ingredient which is used in various herbal formulas to cleanse liver. As it is able to stimulate bile production, it assist in detoxification of liver and other organs. It is also used for the treatment of jaundice.

Breastfeeding mothers
Not all the women have sufficient amount of milk to feed their babies properly. Holy Thistle possesses emenagogue properties that enhance the quality as well as production of breast milk.

Menstrual problems
Lot of women suffers from horrible symptoms during their menstrual cycle. The evidence shows that Holy thistle assist in alleviation of these monthly symptoms such as brain fog, headaches and other cramps.

Skin health
Holy Thistle herb possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties that are beneficial for the skin. It has antioxidants that maintain the skin look young and fresh. The astringent property tightens the skin. Apply it in form of poultice for treating minor cuts, wounds, grazes and also prevent infections.

Lower inflammation
Holy Thistle possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to lower the chances of heart disease, cancer and dementia as inflammation is at heart of these illnesses.

Eliminate bacteria and microbes
Holy Thistle is able to counteract harmful bacteria and microbes. Its antibacterial properties are due to the presence of two compounds such as cnicin and polyacetalyne. The research has shown that these chemical compounds effectively treat Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and E.Coli.

Acts as a diuretic
Diuretic helps to stimulate the production of urine and promote the frequency and flow of urination. The diuretic medication has been prescribed for kidney problems and infections of urinary tract. Holy Thistle is a natural diuretic which can be used as an alternative for powerful pharmaceutical medications.

HEALTH BENEFITS
AN EXCELLENT SOURCE OF PROTEIN
Duckweed is extremely high on protein making it an excellent source of sustainable plant based protein and a good alternative to the more common animal sources. A study published in 2018 set out to analyse the protein bioavailability of duckweed – Wolffia globosa and found that it was extremely high in proteins and other nutrients.

The researchers found that duckweed contained all 9 of the essential amino acids as well as being rich in minerals like zinc and iron and vitamin B12.

The study, which involved 36 male subjects, found that the protein found in duckweed was highly bioavailable. The absorption rate of its amino acids was similar to that of soft cheese.

The researchers concluded that mankai duckweed offered high-quality protein and was a potential substitute source for animal proteins

Elderberry can boost your immune system
Elderberry contains a whole host of immune-boosting antioxidants, including vitamins A, B, and C. These antioxidants and vitamins can help keep your immune system strong and allow you to better fight off infections, such as common viruses like the cold or flu.

For example, a 2016 study found that 300mg elderberry supplement capsules, taken twice per day, a few days before and after long-haul flights significantly reduced the duration and severity of cold symptoms for travelers.

Another 2020 review of five elderberry studies concluded that, when taken within 48 hours of initial symptoms, elderberry supplements may reduce the length and severity of fever, headache, runny nose, and congestion associated with cold and flu.

Elderberry also contains anthocyanins — a pigment with antioxidant effects that give berries their red, blue, purple, or black coloring. Anthocyanins are thought to prevent flu viruses from reproducing inside our bodies, which may prevent the onset of flu or decrease the duration of its symptoms.

In fact, laboratory tests have shown that anthocyanins can inhibit neuraminidase, which is "a part of a virus that allows for budding, and thus replication, of a virus," says Thomas Holland, MD, a physician-scientist in the departments of internal medicine and clinical nutrition at Rush Medical College in Chicago.

For example, the flu-busting antiviral oseltamivir, known by the brand name Tamiflu, is also a neuraminidase inhibitor and works to reduce flu symptoms by the same mechanism.

Elderberry can decrease inflammation
Holland says elderberry contains a variety of "bioactives" — anti-inflammatory compounds you might've heard of like tannins and flavonoids that can help prevent damage to our bodies' cells.

Stress, polluted air, unhealthy foods, and substances like alcohol or tobacco can all cause inflammation in the body, which may contribute to cellular damage, Holland says. That cellular damage can in turn generate free radicals — harmful byproducts of the body that can lead to chronic diseases like
heart disease
, Alzheimer's, and cancer.

"Taking foods, especially berries, that have these antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties can prevent that onset of cellular damage, or decrease the inflammation that's happening," Holland says.

Elderberry may benefit your heart health
Elderberries are rich in bioactive flavonoids, which multiple studies have suggested help lower blood pressure and prevent the onset or progression of heart disease.

In a small 2017 study, adults 50 to 70 years old who were given a bioactive-rich mixed berry drink (including elderberries) daily for five weeks saw a significant decrease in cholesterol levels overall and LDL cholesterol in particular compared to those given a placebo.

Possible side effects of elderberry
Holland says allergies to elderberry are rare, but only the fruit and flowers of elderberry are edible, and only the flowers can be eaten raw

The English brought aloe vera to Barbados to provide their sailors protection from long hours of working in the sun. Today, researchers are verifying the exceptional healing properties of aloe, most of which can be viewed online. After 30 years of growing aloe, here are 10 best ways to use Aloe Vera that has been discovered.

1. Soothes Burns and Heals Wounds
Whether it’s sunburn, burns, cuts and scraps aloe is the best. Applied to wounds, aloe gel is a mild anesthetic, relieving itching, swelling, and pain; it is also antibacterial and antifungal. It increases blood flow to wounded areas and stimulates fibroblasts, the skin cells responsible for healing wounds.

2. Eases Intestinal Problems
Aloe vera juice can be very effective for treating most digestive conditions. The juice helps to detoxify the bowel, neutralize stomach acidity and relieve constipation and gastric ulcers.

3. Reduces Arthritic Swelling
Applications of aloe can reduce pain and swelling of arthritis, and drinking aloe juice also helps to inhibit the autoimmune reaction associated with certain forms of arthritis, in which the body attacks its own tissues.

4. Heals Psoriasis Lesions
Aloe is the best natural treatment for psoriasis and eczema. In most cases, the lesions are even cured using aloe.

5. Gum Infections
Washing one’s mouth with aloe juice several times a day can heal stubborn infections. Blend the fresh gel of a leaf without the skin or any water, and gargle.

6. Eye irritations and injuries
Apply a freshly cut slice of aloe over the closed eye, then open the eyelid to coat it with aloe. It’s a great treatment when you have a small particle stuck in an eye.

7. Strains and sprains
Aloe is an excellent treatment that can be applied immediately to cool, sooth and reduce the swelling of the joint. Blend the gel of a fresh leaf without water to make a poultice for the injury.

8. Lung congestion
Aloe acts as a powerful expectorant when the lungs are congested. Blend the gel of aloe with lemon juice and water and drink freely during the day.

9. Rashes and allergic reactions on the skin
In the tropics, these types of skin issues are common. Try aloe gel as a natural first aid treatment.

10. Lowering blood sugar levels in the blood
Aloe can be part of a successful program in treating diabetes. Aloe juice can be taken several times a day between meals to help heal the pancreas and liver.

Mint has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments for many years. Unfortunately, there aren't many human studies documenting the impact mint has on the body apart from digestion support and irritable bowel syndrome relief. With time, research could confirm that mint is useful in treating a wider variety of illnesses.

Brain Health

Consuming mint might promote brain health. One study found mint extracts have potential to treat Alzheimer's symptoms, although more research is needed. Another study found that smelling peppermint could enhance memory and increase alertness, although it's unknown if ingesting it has similar effects.

Digestive Health

When it comes to medicinal uses, mint is perhaps most popularly known as a remedy for digestive problems. Taking peppermint oil reduces abdominal pain and helps treat irritable bowel syndrome without producing side effects.

Animal and in vitro studies suggest that mint leaves could have wider medicinal applications than those currently known. These types of studies have found that mint is able to kill bacteria, reduce stress, and fight cancerous tumour cells. Human trials will be required to determine if mint also has these effects on the human body.

Health Benefits
Fennel Contains Unique Phytonutrients with Antioxidant and Health-Promoting Effects
Like many of its fellow spices, fennel contains its own unique combination of phytonutrients—including the flavonoids rutin, quercitin, and various kaempferol glycosides—that give it strong antioxidant activity. The phytonutrients in fennel extracts compare favorably in research studies to BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), a potentially toxic antioxidant commonly added to processed foods.

The most fascinating phytonutrient compound in fennel, however, may be anethole—the primary component of its volatile oil. In animal studies, the anethole in fennel has repeatedly been shown to reduce inflammation and to help prevent the occurrence of cancer. Researchers have also proposed a biological mechanism that may explain these anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. This mechanism involves the shutting down of a intercellular signaling system called tumor necrosis factor (or TNF)-mediated signaling. By shutting down this signaling process, the anethole in fennel prevents activation of a potentially strong gene-altering and inflammation-triggering molecule called NF-kappaB. The volatile oil has also been shown to be able to protect the liver of experimental animals from toxic chemical injury.

Antioxidant Protection and Immune Support from Vitamin C in Fennel
In addition to its unusual phytonutrients, fennel bulb is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is the body's primary water-soluble antioxidant, able to neutralize free radicals in all aqueous environments of the body. If left unchecked, these free radicals cause cellular damage that results in the pain and joint deterioration that occurs in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The vitamin C found in fennel bulb is directly antimicrobial and is also needed for the proper function of the immune system.

Fiber, Folate and Potassium in Fennel for Cardiovascular and Colon Health
As a very good source of fiber, fennel bulb may help to reduce elevated cholesterol levels. And since fiber also removes potentially carcinogenic toxins from the colon, fennel bulb may also be useful in preventing colon cancer. In addition to its fiber, fennel is a very good source of folate, a B vitamin that is necessary for the conversion of a dangerous molecule called homocysteine into other, benign molecules. At high levels, homocysteine, which can directly damage blood vessel walls, is considered a significant risk factor for heart attack or stroke. Fennel is also a very good source of potassium, a mineral that helps lower high blood pressure, another risk factor for stroke and heart attack.

1. Sage is packed with antioxidants
The fuzzy leaves are stacked with antioxidants that boast anti-inflammatory properties and help protect against free radicals. Herbs in the mint family, like sage and rosemary, include antioxidant powerhouses carnosic and rosmarinic acids. These specific polyphenols may even contain anti-cancer and memory-boosting properties.

2. Sage has antimicrobial properties
Historically, people have used sage internally and topically as a cleansing herb. “Sage is generally seen to be highly aromatic, and therefore rich in antimicrobial compounds,” Corbett says. That’s thanks to its volatile oil content, she says, which early research supports. Research also suggests sage essential oil can be an effective disinfectant against airborne microorganisms, can banish body odor when used as a deodorant, and can treat wounds and skin infections caused by staphylococcus.

3. Sage can boost cognition
“I use sage sometimes with clients who have a very damp constitution, an herbal term for people who tend to be sluggish and have low cognition,” Corbett says. “Its heating, drying element can also help with improving memory.” From smelling its essential oil and experiencing an improved mood and reduced anxiety, sage can be just what the doctor (herbalist) ordered.

4. Sage can help with digestive complaints
Good news for your gut, says Corbett. Research reveals sage extract might be able to help curb diarrhoea, so you can leave the Pepto Bismol in your medicine cabinet this time around.

Medicinally speaking, there are many impressive uses for wild garlic, including in the treatment of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stomach upset, and chronic disease, among others. This type of garlic can be used internally or topically as an herbal supplement or added to poultices and other home remedies.

Improves Heart Health
Garlic is known to have a soothing effect on high blood pressure, which can lessen your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Furthermore, wild garlic is able to lower overall cholesterol levels, keeping your heart in good shape as you age. [4]

Treats Stomach Issues
The antibacterial and anti-fungal compounds found in this wilder form of garlic can help to re-balance the bacterial flora in your gut, which can soothe inflammation, bloating, cramping, constipation, and other stomach issues you may be handling. [5]

Anticancer Potential
Wild garlic can help in protecting you from cancer in many ways. According to a 2018 study, it helps in inhibiting the formation of cancer-causing substances and also enhances DNA repair. Wild garlic also helps in inducing cancer cell death, thereby lowering your risk of suffering from cancer. [6]

One more research paper has also shown that wild garlic also has the potential to kill skin cancer cells. [7]

A 2015 study reveals that the presence of diallyl disulfide, an active ingredient in ramson volatile oil, helps in inhibiting the proliferation of human cancer cell lines, including breast, prostate, lung, colon cancers, lymphomas, and neuroblastoma

Feverfew can be eaten as the fresh leaf, made into a green leaf tea or dried for later use as a tea.

White flowers that resemble daisies from July to September.
Prefers a position in full sun.
Likes dry, well-drained soil.
Hardy perennial.
Self seeds.
Bitter flavour.
A member of the daisy family.
Taste better in a sandwich with Marmite!
Leaves can be frozen.
Medicinal Uses.
Aids melancholy, vertigo, aches and pains.
Eat a couple of fresh leaves per day to reduce the symptoms of migraines.
Can aid the soothing of muscle spasms.
Can be dried and used for tea.
Can aid more restful sleep.
Can aid relief for arthritis and rheumatism.
Can be used as a mouth rinse.
Mild laxative.
Tonic for appetite.
Can ease depression.
Promotes good digestion.
The leaves can induce menstruation if delayed.
The oil from the leaves can act as an insect repellent, as can a skin wash made from the leaves.
The flowers can be used for instant relief from insect bites.
Can relieve symptoms of hay fever.
Many of our customers have found it effective for dogs with movement problems (with rapid results, even after the vets have said there is nothing else they can do for them).
Other Uses.
Flowers can be used in pot pourri.
Can be infused to make a mild disinfectant.
When dried can be used to deter moths!

Benefits of green angelica can be in can in culinary terms. Generally, organic angelica is used as a flavor for Chartreuse, Absinthe, Benedictine, and Vermouth. Many chefs use the efficacy of green angelica as a spice for omelets, as well as jam recipes. Fishy fish flavor can be removed with the addition of organic angelica spice.

1. Maintain a hormonal balance

For centuries, dong quai is believed to be able to maintain hormonal balance for women. Dong quai extract will improve estrogen hormone profile and make all body systems work normally. Conditions like this will also help improve the condition of menstruation in women.

2. Detoxification of blood

One factor causing the emergence of disease is the buildup of toxins and harmful substances in the blood. Dong quai extract is able to reduce the levels of toxins and harmful substances in the blood. Because, dong quai is also rich in biotin, folic acid and vitamin B12 is very good to clean all types of toxins in the blood and toxins that accumulate in the body.

Dong quai contains iron which can help improve blood circulation in the body. Iron is an important component for the formation of red blood cells. Iron deficiency can lead to a person susceptible to anemia that is often characterized by symptoms, such as headaches, muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, as well as various disorders of cognitive function. With the increase of blood circulation throughout the body, there will be an increase in energy which will also help accelerate the healing and to maintain overall body health.

Consuming dong quai extract is also able to prevent and treat stress in women and also men. Various compounds contained in dong quai will help regulate the hormonal system in the body which will reduce the occurrence of mood swings and relieve the mind.

Dong quai is believed to have a refreshing and evocative nature. Things like this will be able to reduce the occurrence of depression and the adverse effects of depression on the health of our bodies. Various compounds in dong quai can help release serotonin hormone which will make our body become feel comfortable and happy.

Dong quai has a lot of natural compounds whose effects are very good for the health of our body, including preventing free radicals damage the organ system and cause various types of chronic diseases. So, dong quai has the potential to prevent the occurrence of heart disease and even cancer, because it contains many compounds that are antioxidants.

Dong quai will help in maintaining heart health in many ways. First, dong quai will help keep blood pressure stable. Then dong quai will also keep the stability of heart beat rhythm because it has antispasmodic properties. Dong quai will also play a role in reducing the excess platelets that accumulate in the arteries and blood vessels, which is one cause of atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke.

What’s more benefits of angelica root? Various compounds that are antioxidants contained .........

Perennial.
Excellent plant for purifying pond water.
Grows 5 - 7 feet (1.5 - 2.1 metres) tall. Leave can reach 1" (2.5 cm) thick.
More suited to larger ponds.
Likes shallow water up to 6" (15 cm) deep.
Plant approximately 2 feet (60 cm) apart.
Likes a sunny position.
Will tolerate slow-flowing water.
Wind pollinated.
Flowers June to August.
Resistant to flooding.
Excellent for encouraging wildlife.
Edible flowers.
Culinary Uses
Roots can be eaten (like potatoes).
Roots are sometimes used to make flour.
Late Spring with the leaves are young they can be eaten
The sheath can be eaten like corn on the cob.
Pollen can be used as a thickener like cornflower.
Seeds can be roasted.
Medicinal Uses
The leaves are diuretic.
The leaves and roots can be used on sores.
The roots can be used to treat cuts, boils, burns and inflammation.
Pollen is an astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, haemostatic, refrigerant, sedative, suppurative and vulnerary.
Dried pollen can be used as an anticoagulant.
an be used to treat kidney stones, haemorrhage, painful menstruation, abnormal uterine bleeding and cancer of the lymphatic system.
Can be used to treat tapeworms and diarrhoea.
The flowers can be used to treat abdominal pain, amenorrhoea, cystitis, dysuria, metrorrhagia and vaginitis.
The stems have been used to treat whooping cough.
Other Uses
Sometimes used to absorb toxins.