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American Ginseng-Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies) Many Native American tribes used American ginseng. Medicinal applications ranged from digestive disorders to sexual problems.1 The Chinese began to use American ginseng after it was imported during the 1700s. The traditional applications of American ginseng in China are significantly different from those for Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng).
In a small pilot study, 3 grams of American ginseng was found to lower the rise in blood sugar following the consumption of a drink high in glucose by people with type 2 diabetes The study found no difference in blood sugar lowering effect if the herb was taken either 40 minutes before the drink or at the same time. A follow-up to this study found that increasing the amount of American ginseng to either 6 or 9 grams did not increase the effect on blood sugar following the high-glucose drink in people with type 2 diabetes.7 This study also found that American ginseng was equally effective in controlling the rise in blood sugar if it was given up to two hours before or together with the drink. American ginseng has also been used in connection with common colds, stress and infections.
Standardized extracts of American ginseng, unlike Asian ginseng, are not available. However, dried root powder, 1-3 grams per day in capsule or tablet form, can be used.8 Some herbalists also recommend 3-5 ml of tincture three times per day.
A certain medicine(warfarin) interact swith American ginseng. Consult your physican or pharmacist if in doubt.
   American Ginseng Ha 648 mg. 100 caps. $12.99
 
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Chlorophyll- Chlorophyll is found in dark greeleafy vegtables, wheat grass and barley grass. Chlorophyll has been used in connection with constipation and bad breath as well as fibromyalgia. Optimal levels remain unknown but 100 mg. 2 or 3 times daily can be used to treat bad breath. There have been no known side effects with the use of Chlorophyll.
  Benard Jensen Chlorophyll 16 fl.oz. $10.49
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Dandelion-Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies) Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are sometimes used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some traditions, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for conditions as varied as eczema and cancer. As is the case today, dandelion leaves have also been used historically to treat water retention.
The primary constituents responsible for dandelion's action on the digestive system and liver are the bitter principles. Previously referred to as taraxacin, these constituents are sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolide and germacranolide type, and are unique to dandelion. Dandelion is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves have a high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese.
Since edema, or water retention, may be a sign of a more serious disease, people should seek the guidance of a physician before using dandelion leaves for either of these conditions.
The bitter compounds in the leaves and root help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives. These bitter principles also increase bile production in the gallbladder and bile flow from the liver. For this reason dandelion is recommended by some herbalists for people with sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow may help improve fat (including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.
How much is usually taken?
As a general liver/gallbladder tonic and to stimulate digestion, 1/2-1 teaspoon (3-5 grams) of the dried root or 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of a tincture made from the root can be used three times per day. Some experts recommend the alcohol-based tincture because the bitter principles are more soluble in alcohol.
As a mild diuretic or appetite stimulant, 1-2 teaspoons (4-10 grams) of dried leaves can be added to a 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water and drunk as a decoction.8 Or, 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of fresh juice or 1/2-1 teaspoon (2-5 ml) of tincture made from the leaves can be used three times per day. Fresh dandelion leaves can be eaten as part of a salad.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Dandelion leaf and root should not be used by people with gallstones without the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.9 People with an obstruction of the bile ducts should not take dandelion. In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid. Those experiencing fluid or water retention should consult a doctor before taking dandelion leaves. The milky latex in the stem and leaves of fresh dandelion may cause an allergic rash in some people. People with a confirmed sensitivity to inulin should avoid dandelion.
Drug Interactions
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. Check with your physician if in doubt. Ciprofloxacin , Loop Diuretics,Spironolactone, Thiazide Diuretics, and Triamterene.
  Dandelion Root 2000mg. 2 fl.oz. $20.69
 Dandelion 520mg. 100 caps. $8.29
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Echinacea- Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Echinacea was used by Native Americans for a variety of conditions, including venomous bites and other external wounds. It was introduced into U.S. medical practice in 1887 and was touted for use in conditions ranging from colds to syphilis. Modern research started in the 1930s in Germany.
Active constituents
Echinacea is thought to support the immune system by activating white blood cells. Three major groups of constituents may work together to increase the production and activity of white blood cells (lymphocytes and macrophages), including alkylamides/polyacetylenes, caffeic acid derivatives, and polysaccharides. More studies are needed to determine if and how echinacea stimulates the immune system in humans.
Echinacea may also increase production of interferon, an important part of the body's response to viral infections. Several double-blind studies have confirmed the benefit of echinacea for treating colds and flu. Recent studies have suggested that echinacea may not be effective for the prevention of colds and flu and should be reserved for use at the onset of these conditions. In terms of other types of infections, research in Germany using injectable forms or an oral preparation of the herb along with a medicated cream (econazole nitrate) reduced the recurrence of vaginal yeast infections as compared to women given the cream alone.
How much is usually taken?
At the onset of a cold or flu, 3-4 ml of echinacea in a liquid preparation or 300 mg of a powdered form in capsule or tablet, can be taken every two hours for the first day of illness, then three times per day for a total of 7 to 10 days.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Echinacea is rarely associated with side effects when taken orally. According to the German Commission E monograph, people should not take echinacea if they have an autoimmune illness, such as lupus, or other progressive diseases, such as tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis, or HIV infection. However, the concern about echinacea use for those with autoimmune illness is not based on clinical research and some herbalists question the potential connection. Those who are allergic to flowers of the daisy family should not take echinacea. Cases of allergic responses to echinacea (e.g., wheezing, skin rash, diarrhea) have been reported in medical literature. In the first study to look at echinacea's possible effect on fetal development and pregnancy outcome, women taking echinacea during pregnancy were found to have no greater incidence of miscarriage or birth defects than women not taking the herb.
Echinacea root contains approximately 20% inulin, a fiber widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and plants. Inulin is classified as a food ingredient (not as an additive) and is considered safe to eat. In fact, inulin is a significant part of the daily diet of most of the worlds population. However, there is a report of a 39-year-old man having a life-threatening allergic reaction after consuming high amounts of inulin from multiple sources. Allergy to inulin in this individual was confirmed by laboratory tests. Such sensitivities are exceedingly rare. Moreover, this man did not take echinacea. Nevertheless, people with a confirmed sensitivity to inulin should avoid echinacea.
Are there any drug interactions?
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. If in doubt consult your physician. Chemotherapy, Cisplatin, Cyclophosphamide, Docetaxel, Econazole, Fluorouracil, Methotrexate, and Paclitaxel.
 Echinacea Goldenseal Extract A/F 2 fl.oz. $11.99
 Echinacea Goldenseal Complex 300 caps. $20.99
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Wormwood- Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Wormwood is perhaps best known because of the use of its oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages, most notably vermouth and absinthe. Absinthe, popular in the 19th century in Europe, caused several cases of brain damage and even death and was banned in most places in the early 20th century. Wormwood oil continues to be used as a flavoring agent for foods, although in much smaller amounts than were found in absinthe.
As a traditional medicine, wormwood was used by herbalists as a bitter to improve digestion, to fight worm infestations, and to stimulate menstruation. It was also regarded as a useful remedy for liver and gallbladder problems.
Active constituents
The aromatic oil of wormwood contains the toxins thujone and isothujone. Very little of this oil is present in ordinary wormwood teas or tinctures. Also existent in the plant are strong bitter agents known as absinthin and anabsinthin. These stimulate digestive and gallbladder function. Modern herbal medicine rarely uses wormwood alone. It is typically combined with herbs such as peppermint or caraway to treat heartburn and even irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical trials are lacking to support the use of wormwood for any indication, however.
How much is usually taken?
A wormwood tea can be made by adding 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2.5 to 5 grams) of the herb to 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water, then steeping for ten to fifteen minutes. Many doctors recommend drinking three cups (750 ml) each day. Tincture, 10-20 drops in water, can be taken ten to fifteen minutes before each meal. Either preparation should not be used consecutively for more than four weeks.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Longer-term use (over four weeks) or intake of amounts higher than those recommended can cause nausea, vomiting, insomnia, restlessness, vertigo, tremors, and seizures. Thujone-containing oil or alcoholic beverages (absinthe) made with the oil is strictly inadvisablethe oil is addictive and may cause brain damage, seizures, and even death. Short-term use (two to four weeks) of a wormwood tea or tincture has not resulted in any reports of significant side effects. One study found there were no side effects when using less than 1 ml tincture three times per day for as long as nine months to promote digestive function. Nevertheless, consult with a healthcare professional knowledgeable in herbal medicine before taking wormwood. Wormwood is not recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
 Wormwood 1 fl.oz $10.00
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Copyright ) 2007 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
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Stinging Nettle
Parts used and where grown
Nettle is a leafy plant that is found in most temperate regions of the world. The Latin root of Urtica is uro, meaning “I burn,” indicative of the small stings caused by the little hairs on the leaves of this plant that burn when contact is made with the skin. The root and leaves of nettle are used in herbal medicine.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Nettle has a long history of use. The tough fibers from the stem have been used to make cloth and cooked nettle leaves were eaten as vegetables. From ancient Greece to the present, nettle has been documented for its traditional use in treating coughs, tuberculosis, and arthritis and in stimulating hair growth.
Active constituents
There has been a great deal of controversy regarding the identity of nettle’s active constituents. Currently, it is thought that polysaccharides (complex sugars) and lectins are probably the active constituents. Test tube studies suggest the leaf has anti-inflammatory actions. This is thought to be caused by nettle preventing the body from making inflammatory chemicals known as prostaglandins.1 Nettle’s root affects hormones and proteins that carry sex hormones (such as testosterone or estrogen) in the human body. This may explain why it helps benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).2 Although less frequently used alone like saw palmetto or pygeum, some limited clinical trials suggest benefit of nettle root extract for men with milder forms of BPH.3
A preliminary trial reported that capsules made from freeze-dried leaves reduced sneezing and itching in people with hay fever.4 Further studies are needed to confirm this finding, however.
The historical practice of intentionally applying nettle topically with the intent of causing stings to relieve arthritis has been assessed by a questionnaire in modern times.5 The results found intentional nettle stings safe, except for a sometimes painful, sometimes numb rash that lasts 6–24 hours. Additional trials are required to determine if this practice is therapeutically effective.
How much is usually taken?
During the allergy season, two to three 300 mg nettle leaf capsules or tablets or 2–4 ml tincture can be taken three times per day. For BPH, 120 mg of a concentrated root extract in capsules can be taken two times per day.6 Many products for BPH will combine nettle root with saw palmetto or pygeum extracts. Intentional stinging with nettles should only be undertaken after consultation with a physician knowledgeable in botanical medicine.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Nettle may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some people. Although allergic reactions to nettle are rare, when contact is made with the skin, fresh nettle can cause a rash secondary to the noted stings.7 Nettle leaf is considered safe for use in pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with nettle. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
 Nettle Leaves 450 mg. 100 caps. $8.29
 Nettle Leaf 2000 mg. 1 fl.oz $12.09
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Lavender
Parts used and where grown
Eastern European countries, particularly Bulgaria, as well as France, Britain, Australia, and Russia grow large quantities of lavender. The fragrant flowers of lavender are used in the preparation of herbal medicines.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Traditionally, herbalists used lavender for a variety of conditions of the nervous system, including depression and fatigue.1 It has also been used for headache and rheumatism. Due to its delightful odor, lavender has found wide application in perfumes and cosmetics throughout history.
Active constituents
The volatile oil (also called essential oil) of lavender contains many constituents, including perillyl alcohol and linalool. The oil is thought to be calming2 and thus can be helpful in some cases of insomnia. One study of elderly people with sleeping troubles found that inhaling lavender oil was as effective as some commonly prescribed sleep medications.3 Similar results were seen in another trial that included young and middle-aged people with insomnia.4 A large clinical trial found that lavender oil added to a bath was no more effective than a placebo for relieving perineal discomfort immediately after childbirth.5 However, perineal pain was reduced three to five days afterward. Lavender is recommended by the German Commission E monograph for indigestion and nervous intestinal discomfort.6
How much is usually taken?
The German Commission E monograph suggests 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of the herb be taken as a tea.7 The tea can be made by steeping 2 teaspoons (10 grams) of leaves in 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water for fifteen minutes. Three cups (750 ml) can be consumed each day. For internal applications, 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–4 ml) of tincture can be taken two or three times per day. Several drops of the oil can be added to a bath or diluted in vegetable oil for topical applications. The concentrated oil is not for internal use, except under medical supervision.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Internal use of the volatile oil can cause severe nausea. Very small amounts should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Excessive intake (several times more than listed above) may cause drowsiness.8 External use in reasonable amounts is safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
In case reports, three young boys developed breast enlargement (gynecomastia) after repeated topical application of products that contained lavender oil and tea tree oil. The problem resolved after they stopped using the oils. While a cause–effect relationship was not conclusively proven, it was suggested by the fact that these oils have been found to have estrogen-like effects in test tube studies.9
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with lavender.
 Lavender Oil $7.99 1 fl. oz
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Coconut oil is a member of the family of tropical oils, which also include palm, palm kernel, cocoa, and shea nut oils. These oils have been used for centuries in the traditional diets of people living in tropical regions such as the Polynesian islands. Because these populations experience less of the diseases, such as heart disease, that are common in Western countries, some people believe that tropical oils such as coconut oil, especially in their natural state, can be part of a healthful diet.1 2 Currently, these oils are used in Western countries in small amounts, primarily in the production of processed foods.
Where is it found?
Coconut oil may be found in many types of processed foods, including fried foods, crackers, desserts, candies, whipped topping, and non-dairy creamers. It is also available in some grocery stores for use in cooking.
Who is likely to be deficient?
There is no human requirement for coconut oil or the shorter-length fatty acids it contains, so no deficiency is possible.
How much is usually taken?
The traditional diets of Pacific Islanders contains several grams per day or more of lauric acid from coconut products, which would require at least one tablespoon per day of coconut oil. Research has not established a recommended intake for coconut oil.
Coconut oil can also be used topically, as in the treatment of head lice.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Serious allergic reactions to coconut or coconut oil have been reported but are considered rare.
People using large amounts of coconut oil in their diet should have their blood cholesterol levels checked regularly.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with coconut oil.   Coconut Oil 15 oz. $8.99
 29 oz. $15.99
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Diet Right: Cut Calories, Not Nutrition
“To curb hunger between meals, bulk up on high-fiber foods, such as fruit.” Get the nutrients you need when dieting
Embarking on a weight-loss diet can be a challenge as you exchange old habits for a new eating routine. As you shift your eating patterns, don’t let vital nutrients slip through the cracks. Cutting back doesn’t have to mean a nutritional nosedive. Remember to seek a healthcare practitioner’s advice prior to kicking off your diet.
Don't skimp on fat
Many diets encourage decreasing fat consumption. By all means avoid saturated fat, but say yes—in moderation—to poly- and monounsaturated fats—the good guys. Fat helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. It’s also a concentrated source of energy, and the essential fatty acids in fat are vital for many important body functions. Reach for foods rich in omega-3—an essential polyunsaturated fat. Good sources are flaxseed and its oil; walnuts; oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna; and hemp oil
Fill up on fiber
To curb hunger between meals, bulk up on high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber gives you a feeling of fullness and slows digestion. When food moves slowly through the digestive system, blood-sugar levels remain on an even keel.
Vitamins for vigor
Exercise goes hand in hand with dieting and will help you reach your weight-loss goals more quickly. Don’t fall prey to low energy levels due to your lower calorie intake. Pack your diet full of B vitamins, which assist in many bodily functions, from energy production to regulating metabolism to overseeing thyroid and adrenal function. Include the following B-vitamin foods in your diet: whole grains, beans, eggs, yogurt, green leafy vegetables, almonds, avocados, poultry, broccoli, brewer’s yeast, organ meats (like liver), nuts, and fish.
Calcium: the powerhouse mineral
Recent studies have linked calcium intake to weight loss. Whether or not further studies bear this out, calcium remains a critical nutrient, especially for women. Calcium is vital to the formation and growth of the bones and teeth and helps to prevent osteoporosis, among its other roles. Get your calcium from green leafy vegetables, tofu, canned salmon, and dairy products.
Lesser-known minerals are also hard at work keeping your body healthy and running at top speed. Trace mineral chromium assists in stabilizing blood-sugar levels and is found in brewer’s yeast, egg yolks, beef, hard cheeses, liver, and whole-grain breads. Zinc supports protein synthesis and is essential to the formation of insulin. Zinc sources include Brazil nuts, shellfish, eggs, and lean meats. Manganese helps regulate cholesterol metabolism and blood glucose and is found in wheat germ, spinach, split peas, nuts, and oatmeal.
 Chromium 300 caps. $34.29
   Calcium, Mag. and D 300 caps. $16.99
 Zinc 50 mg. 100 tablets $4.99  Manganese 10 mg. 100 tablets $5.29
 Brewer's Yeast 1000 tablets $9.99
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