Brooklyn Community Gardeners

The Healing Power of Herbs

a thumbnail overview of some of the more commonly used herbs

Healers have relied on the gentle power of herbs for centuries. Ancient
civilizations all around the world recognized and documented the
extraordinary curative properties of the plants that grew around them,
creating a rich resource of knowledge that continues to serve humankind. It
is only in the past hundred years or so that herbal remedies have been set
aside in favour of chemical drugs. Fortunately, public demand for safe,
effective, pure and natural medicines has created a resurgence of interest
in herbs. This time-honoured tradition is now backed by scientific research,
attesting to the benefits of herbs not only in the treatment of acute
illness, but also in the alleviation of chronic conditions, and as tonics to
promote and maintain vibrant health.

The Importance of Quality
The effectiveness of an herbal remedy depends entirely on its quality. The
herbs must be organically grown in a pristine environment, away from cities
and industrial pollutants that contaminate the soil, air and water. The
herbal preparations must be made from the freshest herbs possible, so that
the active ingredients do not deteriorate, and all other ingredients in the
preparations, such as alcohol, must also be organic. It is vitally important
that the producer adhere to the highest standards of manufacturing practice,
and conduct regular product testing to ensure purity and potency.

The Benefits of Liquid Extracts
Liquid extracts are prepared by soaking fresh herbs in a mixture of water
and alcohol, then pressing and straining the herbs to render a fluid
preparation that is one part fresh herb to one or two parts hydroalcoholic
mixture. The alcohol functions to extract the active ingredient and make it
absorbable. Liquid extracts are potent, and quickly and easily assimilated
by the body.

The Benefits of Cryogenically Freeze-dried Herbs
Unlike air-drying, which oxidizes herbs and destroys their active
ingredients, cryogenic freeze-drying uses a vacuum to remove 100 percent of
the moisture from fresh herbs while leaving the active ingredients intact.
It also breaks down the cell walls within the plant, so the medicinal
elements are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Once dried, the herbs can
be put into capsules, offering consumers a convenient and familar method of
taking medication. While capsules containing cryogenically freeze-dried
herbs are just as effective as extracts, they take time to digest, so the
results are not quite as immediate.

How to use Herbal Products
The effectiveness of an herbal product will be greatly enhanced if it is
used correctly. Here are some general guidelines:
1)When - Herbs are best taken on an empty stomach, whether they are in a
liquid or capsule form. The best times are 1/2 hour before meals and before
bed. Herbs that have a stimulating effect on the organs of digestion are
best taken 15-20 minutes before meals.
2) How - Liquid extracts are best diluted in 1-2 ounces of water. This
liquid should be held in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing to
maximize absorption. Take the full dose unless otherwise indicated. Capsules
should be taken with a small glass of water.
3) As tonics - Tonics are used for health promotion and disease prevention.
They are best taken for 1-4 week periods followed by 1-2 week breaks. How
often the cycle is repeated depends on the particular situation.
4) Acute conditions - In the case of acute illness, herbal formulations
should initially be taken 6-8 times per day. The frequency of the dose is
gradually decreased to 3 times per day as the symptoms improve. This level
should be maintained until 3-5 days after all symptoms have subsided.
5) Chronic conditions - For chronic conditions, formulations should be taken
3-4 times per day for a 4-6 week period, followed by a 1-2 week break. They
generally need to be taken for a number of months. Gradually increase the
length of the break as the symptoms improve.
6) Storage - Herbal extracts should be stored in a dark location in an
upright position. Capsules should also be stored away from light. Herbal
products do not need to be refrigerated.
7) Contraindications - Any individual with a serious medical condition or
who is taking a prescription drug should consult with their physician before
using any herbal product. Pregnant and lactating women should also consult
with their physicians before taking herbs.

How Herbs Act on the Body
Just as chemical drugs exert powerful effects on organs and systems of the
body, botanical medicines are also known for their various actions on the
body. Here is a glossary of some of the most important medicinal effects of
herbs:

Adaptogen: herbs that increase resistance to a wide range of environmental,
physical, biological and emotional stressors.
Alterative: herbs that gradually and favorably alter the condition of the
body Analgesic: herbs that relieve pain without causing loss of
consciousness. Anodyne: herbs that relieve pain
Anthelmintic: stimulating herbs which help eliminate parasitic worms from
the digestive system
Anticatarrhal: herbs that aid in the elimination of mucous
Antimicrobial: herbs that rid the body of micro-organisms
Antineoplastic: herbs that inhibit the development of tumors
Analgesic: herbs that relieve pain
Antioxidant: herbs that counteract the cellular damage caused by oxidation
Antirheumatic: herbs that relieve rheumatic pain
Antiseptic: herbs that inhibit the growth of disease-causing germs
Antispasmodic: herbs that relax nervous tension
Astringent: herbs that help break down secretions
Bitter: herbs that promote appetite and aid digestion
Carminative: herbs that relieve gas and bloating
Cathartic: herbs that have a laxative effect
Cholagogue: herbs that promote the flow and discharge of bile
Demulcent: herbs that have a soothing effect; usually taken with other herbs
to prevent damage to sensitive tissue
Detoxifier: herbs that help rid the body of excess metabolic waste and toxic
chemicals
Diaphoretic: herbs that promote sweating
Diuretic: herbs that increase the flow of urine
Emmenagogue: herbs that promote menstruation
Emollient: herbs used to soften or smooth tissues
Expectorant: herbs that aid in the expulsion of mucous
Hepatic: herbs that aid in liver functions
Nervine: herbs used to ease stress and nourish the nerves
Purgative: herbs that promote bowel movement
Rubefacient: herbs that increase circulation when applied to the skin
Sedative: herbs that relax the nervous system
Stomachic: a stimulant or tonic for the stomach
Styptic: herbs that are applied to the skin to stop superficial bleeding
Tonic: herbs that promote the proper functioning of body systems
Vasodilator: herbs that expand the blood vessels
Vermifuge: herbs that kill worms in the intestines

Herbs and Their Uses
It is crucial that consumers educate themselves about the medicinal effects
of herbs before they begin taking them. The information below is intended
for educational purposes, and is in no way meant to replace qualified
medical supervision and advice. It is not recommended that people attempt to
diagnose and treat themselves, particularly in the case of serious illness.

Single Herbs:

ARNICA (Arnica montana): Alterative, anti-inflammatory and antidepressant; a
restorative for the whole body and tonic for the cardiovascular system; used
to treat inflammation, pain and trauma.
ASTRAGALUS (Astragalus membranaceus) : Antineoplastic; an immune stimulant
that inhibits tumor growth, aids in side effects of chemotherapy and
provides natural interferon support; tonic and energy boosting effect;
supports adrenal, lung and digestive functions.
BLACK COHOSH (Cimicifuga racemosa): Emmenagogue and antispasmodic; balances
hormones, regulates menses and relieves menstrual and ovarian cramping;
labour and delivery aid; also used for muscular rheumatism and rheumatoid
arthritis. Contraindication: Do not use during pregnancy.
BLESSED THISTLE (Carduus marianus): Bitter, tonic, astringent, antibacterial
and hepatic; relieves congestion and inflammation of the lungs; beneficial
for asthma; purifies the blood; restores appetite; increases mothers' milk
production.
BLUE COHOSH (Caulophyllum thalictroides) : Emmenagogue and antispasmodic;
relieves menstrual cramps, leukorrhea, uterine inflammation; uterine tonic;
aid to false labor and threat of miscarriage; aid in childbirth.
Contraindication: Avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy.
BONESET (Eupatorium perfollatum) : Tonic, diaphoretic and alterative;
helpful for fevers, influenza and related symptoms; bitter action improves
liver, gall bladder and bowel function.
BORAGE (Borago officinalis) : Diuretic, demulcent and emollient; used as a
tonic for the adrenal glands.
BUGLEWEED (Lycopus virginicus): Sedative and astringent. Recently found to
have anti-hormonal activity, the extract of this herb regulates thyroid and
pituitary-stimulati ng hormones, which would account for its sedative effect
BURDOCK (Articum lappa): Alterative, diuretic and bitter; blood purifier
and natural source of iron; beneficial for various skin conditions,
including eczema, psoriasis and eruptions; improves appetite and digestion;
relieves arthritis, gout and rheumatism.
CALENDULA (Calendula officinalis) : Astringent, diaphoretic,
anti-inflammatory and emmenagogue; aids digestion; soothes ulcers; used
externally for cuts and bruises.
CAYENNE (Capsicum minimum): Stimulant, stomachic, tonic, external
rubefacient; stimulates circulation and supports the blood and circulatory
system; useful for arthritis, asthma and gout.
CASCARA SAGRADA (Rhamnus purshiana): Laxative, hepatic and antispasmodic;
provides gentle relief of chronic constipation.
CATNIP (Nepeta cataria): Carminative, antispasmodic, mildly sedative,
diaphoretic and astringent; effective cold and flu remedy; relieves stomach
discomforts, bloating and gas; gentle for children.
CELERY SEED (Apium graveolens): Diuretic and carminitive; aids digestion;
relieves arthritis, rheumatism and gout.
CHAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita): Stomachic, carminative, antiseptic,
antispasmodic, tonic, diaphoretic and anthelmintic; useful for anxiety and
insomnia; relieves gastrointestinal complaints; can be used externally as an
eyewash and to soothe skin irritations; gentle for children.
CHASTE TREE BERRY/VITEX (Vitex agnus-castus) : Female hormonal balancer and
mild stimulant; relieves premenstrual discomfort and menopausal symptoms
such as hot flashes; useful for teenage acne in both males and females.
CHICKWEED (Stellaria media): Anti-inflammatory, demulcent, emollient,
refrigerant and astringent; used externally for eczema, psoriasis, swellings
and boils; used internally for rheumatism; history as nutritional support
for blood poisoning and asthma.
CLEAVERS (Galium aparine): Anti-inflammatory and detoxifier; excellent
lymphatic cleanser; excellent support for the urinary tract. Combines well
with other herbs.
COLTSFOOT (Tussilago farfara): Anticatarrhal, expectorant and antispasmodic;
immune stimulant; useful for pulmonary coughs, colds, asthma, bronchitis,
emphysema and irritating coughs.
CRANESBILL (Geranium maculatum): Astringent and anti-inflammatory; soothes
sore throat and canker sores; used topically for hemorrhoids and ulcers;
taken internally for diarrhea; can be used in a douche for leukorrhea;
moderates excessive menstruation.
DAMIANA LEAVES (Turnera diffusa): Tonic, aphrodisiac, nervine, stomachic and
antidepressant.
DANDELION FLOWER (Taraxum officinale): Antioxidant; helps lower cholesterol;
improves appetite and relieves indigestion.
DANDELION ROOT (Taraxum officinale): Diuretic, detoxifier, tonic and
antirheumatic; particularly useful for detoxifying the liver; helpful for
gout; natural source of potassium; regulates blood sugar and acid-alkaline
balance in the body; lowers blood pressure; also used for rheumatism.
DONG QUAI (Angelica sinensis): Tonic; strengthens female organs; blood
support; mitigates hot flashes.
ECHINACEA (Echinacea purpurea): Immune stimulant, vasodilator, antimicrobial
and antibacterial; antiseptic for lymphatic system; relieves cold and flu
symptoms; can be used to treat tonsillitis and blood poisoning; use only as
needed to stimulate and support immune system. Contraindications: Should not
be used for more than two weeks at a time during pregnancy. Consult with
your physician before using if you suffer from an auto-immune disorder.
ELECAMPANE (Inula helenium): Expectorant, tonic, alterative, diuretic,
antifungal and antibacterial; supports the lungs and combines well with
other herbs to relieve coughs, catarrh, bronchitis and emphysema; promotes
perspiration and eliminates toxins.
EYEBRIGHT (Euphrasia nemorosa): Anti-inflammatory, astringent and
anticatarrhal; alcohol-free extracts can be used as an eyewash for eye
infections and conjunctivitis; useful for cataracts; draws out secretions
and discharges; relieves sinusitis.
FEVERFEW (Tanacetum parthenium): Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antirheumatic
stomachic and carminative. Used primarily for migraine relief and to
prevent chronic migraines; reduces fever; also effective for rheumatism and
menstrual problems.
GINGER (Zingiber officinale): Carminitive and stimulant; alleviates
indigestion, diarrhea, nausea and colic; increases circulation.
GINKGO BILOBA (Ginkgo biloba): Stimulates circulation in the brain and to
the extremities; heart, brain and blood antioxidant; allergy support; used
to treat tinnitus, vertigo and stress; improves mental alertness in cases of
senility; effective in treating childhood asthma.
GINSENG (Panax quinquefolius) : Male and female tonic; natural aphrodisiac;
strengthens gonads; regulates low blood pressure; increases energy,
endurance and stamina; supports all bodily functions. Contraindications:
Elevates blood pressure; not for women with cysts; do not take with vitamins
caffeine or citrus. Should probably be avoided during pregnancy.
GOLDENSEAL (Hydrastis canadensis): Tonic, anticatarrhal, stomachic, bitter
and astringent; used internally for dyspepsia, gastritis, ulcers and colitis
and to moderate excessive menstruation; supports respiratory tract; used
topically for insect bites, eczema, conjunctivitis and ringworm.
Contraindications: Should not be taken during pregnancy; should not be taken
on its own for more than 6-8 weeks at a time or administered to children
under the age of two without the supervision of a qualified practitioner.
GOLDENROD (Solidago canadensis): Diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic,
carminative and diuretic; used in the treatment and prevention of urinary
tract infections and kidney stones.
HEAL-ALL (Prunella vulgaris): Astringent; used as a tonic in the treatment
of prostatitis.
HOREHOUND (Marrubium vulgare): Expectorant, bitter tonic, antiseptic;
improves respiration and relieves coughs, bronchitis and asthma.
HORSETAIL (Equisetum arvense): Tonic and astringent; used for genito-urinary
complaints such as cystitis, incontinence and inflamed prostate; contains
vegetal silica to nourish hair, skin and nails.
HYSSOP (Hyssop officinalis) : Expectorant, carminative and antispasmodic;
used to treat colds, chronic catarrh, coughs, bronchitis; relieves anxiety;
also used for digestive disorders.
KAVA KAVA (Piper methysticum) : Gentle nervine and anti-inflammatory which
is calming and emotionally uplifting; excellent sleep aid; relieves anxiety.
LAVENDER (Lavendula angustifolia) : Carminative, antispasmodic and
antidepressant; relieves headaches, nausea and depression.
LICORICE (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Demulcent, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and
antispasmodic; used to treat gastric ulcers; balances hormones and blood
sugar; treats hypoglycemia; supports adrenal glands; relieves coughs,
bronchitis and asthma. Use in moderation. Contraindications: Not to be used
in cases of high blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver or severe kidney
insufficiency, in the presence of cysts, or during pregnancy.
MAITAKE (Grifola frondosus): Antineoplastic; stimulates the immune system
and inhibits the growth of tumours.
MARSHMALLOW (Althaea officinalis) : Demulcent, emollient, expectorant,
anticatarrhal and diuretic; soothing to mucous membranes; relieves dry cough
and gastric ulcers; supports respiratory system; also useful for urinary
tract inflammation and cystitis.
MILK THISTLE (Silybum marianum): Hepatic, demulcent, bitter tonic;
regenerates the liver on a cellular level; used to treat hepatitis,
cirrhosis and jaundice; detoxifies the liver from drug and alcohol abuse and
environmental contaminants.
MOTHERWORT (Leonarus cardiaca): Heart tonic, antispasmodic, nervine,
sedative and emmenagogue; dissolves fibrin; relieves anxiety.
Contraindication: Should not be taken during the first six months of
pregnancy.
MULLEIN (Verbascum thapsus): Demulcent, emollient, anodyne,
anti-inflammatory, expectorant, diuretic and relaxant; respiratory support,
particularly for bronchitis and catarrh; used externally to promote wound
healing.
PARTRIDGEBERRY (Mitchelia repens): Tonic, diuretic and astringent; used in
the treatment of menstrual disorders, including abnormally heavy or painful
menses and amenorrhea; gentle support to the uterus and body in childbirth.
PASSIONFLOWER (Passiflora incarnata): Sedative, nervine, antispasmodic,
anodyne and tonic; useful for nervous restlessness and insomnia; also used
to treat shingles and headaches. Contraindications: May be slightly narcotic
in high doses, and is best taken in combination with other herbs if use is
prolonged; should probably be avoided during pregnancy.
PLAINTAIN (Plantago major): Alterative, anti-inflammatory, astringent,
diuretic, demulcent and expectorant; soothing to the mucous membranes;
useful for diarrhea; relieves bee stings, skin inflammations and hemorrhoids
PRICKLY ASH (Zanthoxylum americanum): Stimulant, tonic, alterative,
diaphoretic, antirheumatic and analgesic; improves circulation; reduces
varicosities; useful for rheumatism and skin diseases; also used to treat
fevers. PROPOLIS (Propolis): Antibacterial and antiseptic; supports the
immune system; extensive usage. Contraindications: May be irritating to the
skin and mucous membranes in some cases; may interact negatively with some
anticancer chemotherapy drugs; safety during pregnancy has not been
determined. PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE (Lythrum salicaria): Astringent and
expectorant; used to treat upper respiratory conditions as well as sinusitis

RED CLOVER (Trifolium pratense): Alterative, antineoplastic, antispasmodic
and expectorant; used as a blood purifier; helpful for skin ailments such as
psoriasis, eczema and ulcers; promotes wound healing; relieves bronchitis
and coughs; soothing to nerves; gentle enough for children; combines well
with other herbs (burdock, stillingia, goldenseal, etc.) Contraindications:
Long term use may not be safe for people using anti-bloodclotting
medications.
RED RASPBERRY (Rubus idaeus): Alterative, astringent and diuretic; used
extensively as a uterine relaxant in childbirth; helpful for uterine
hemorrhage and miscarriage; regulates excess menstruation; helpful for yeast
infections and leukorrhea; soothes inflamed mucous membranes; can be used as
a gargle for sore throats and canker sores; stomach and intestinal tonic;
beneficial for diarrhea; nutritive mineral source.
REISHI (Ganoderma lucidum): Tonic; believed to promote longevity; protects
and enhances the immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems; helps reduce
cholesterol. Contraindications: May cause mild gastrointestinal upset for
some people; safety during pregnancy has not been determined.
RHUBARB (Rheum palmatum): Astringent, tonic, bitter, stomachic and
antispasmodic; laxative in large doses; appetite stimulant; improves
peristalsis; relieves diarrhea. Contraindications: Not to be used in cases
of Crohn's disease, colitis and other severe intestinal disorders. Pregnant
women and children under the age of 12 should not use this herb.
ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) : Stomachic, aromatic, antidepressant,
nervine, stimulant, antispasmodic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and
analgesic; particularly useful for headaches and migraines; internal and
external use.
SAGE (Salvia officinalis) : Aromatic, antiseptic, astringent, carminative,
anti-inflammatory, tonic and expectorant; reduces fevers and excess catarrh
and mucous; relieves flatulence and gastric upset; improves circulation;
helpful for menopausal hot flashes; stops flow of mother's milk; checks
sexual excess; can be used as a gargle for sore throat and laryngitis;
antihemorrhage; brain stimulant; internal and external use.
Contraindication: Do not use during pregnancy.
SARSAPARILLA (Aralia nudicaulis): Alterative, antirheumatic,
anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, diuretic and diaphoretic; blood tonic and
purifier; regulates hormones; testosterone aid; useful for skin disorders
such as psoriasis; also used for arthritis and rheumatic complaints.
SAW PALMETTO (Serenoa repens): Antiseptic and diuretic; nutritive tonic for
atrophy of testes; supports prostate glandular tissue and urinary system;
helpful for enlarged prostate; also used for debility and wasting diseases.
SCULLCAP (Scutellaria lateriflora) : Nervine, sedative, antispasmodic,
anticonvulsant and bitter; highly regarded for hysteria and nervous tension
and as a sleep aid; also used for hydrophobia.
SHEEP SORREL (Rumex acetosella): Diuretic; used for urinary conditions.
SIBERIAN GINSENG (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Tonic and mild stimulant for
women and men; strengthens the system; increases endurance, energy and
mental alertness; regulates low blood pressure and low blood sugar; improves
circulation; relieves fatigue and stress. Contraindications: Not to be used
in cases of high blood pressure or by women if they are cystic. Not to be
used with caffeine or vitamin C.
SLIPPERY ELM (Ulmus fulva): Demulcent, emollient and astringent; soothing
and healing properties; useful for inflammation of the stomach and bowel,
for gastric and duodenal ulcers, and for colitis; beneficial for coughs and
sore throat; used externally to draw and soothe skin disorders and to heal
skin diseases, boils and puncture wounds.
STINGING NETTLES (Urtica dioica): Diuretic, astringent and tonic; useful for
hemorrhage and nose bleeds; rich source of minerals (especially iron),
vitamins and chlorophyll; aids in the treatment of prostatitis; also useful
for eczema and skin eruptions.
ST. JOHN'S WORT (Hypericum perforatum): Gentle sedative, antidepressant,
anti-inflammatory, and astringent; immune support; used to treat mild
depression, anxiety, stress, nervous restlessness and irritability; relieves
menopause symptoms; also used to treat lung diseases and urinary tract
infections; promotes healing of wounds. Contraindications: Should not be
taken in combination with pharmaceutical antidepressants; should only be
taken in herbal combinations during pregnancy; in rare cases increases
sensitivity to sunlight.
VALERIAN (Valeriana sylvestris): Anodyne, antispasmodic, sedative and
nervine; useful for anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, headache, hysteria and
exhaustion; blends well with other nervines. Contraindications: May produce
morning drowsiness in some people; in rare cases may cause mild headaches;
should probably be avoided during pregnancy; avoid overuse.
VERVAIN (Verbena officinalis) : Antispasmodic, nervine, tonic, alterative
and diaphoretic; relieves depression, tension, difficult menses; helpful for
bronchitis; supports liver function.
WILD YAM (Dioscorea villosa): Anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic,
antispasmodic and hepatic; uterine tonic; useful for ovarian pain and
painful menses; relieves colic; soothes abdominal and intestinal irritation.

YARROW (Achillea millefolium) : Diaphoretic, diuretic, stimulant, astringent
bitter, antiseptic and tonic; opens pores and aids in reducing fever;
useful for coughs and catarrh; purifies blood and lowers blood pressure;
stimulates digestion; also used for diarrhea, dyspepsia, ulcers and rashes.
Contraindications: Should only be taken in herbal combinations during
pregnancy.
YELLOW DOCK (Rumex crispis): Cholagogue, alterative and purgative; botanical
source of iron; skin tonic for psoriasis and other skin diseases; relieves
constipation.

Herbal Combinations:
Herbal compounds are very effective when the constituent herbs have been
carefully selected for mutual synergy. The properties of the herbs then
support and amplify each other, so that the effect of the combination is
more powerful than that of the individual components. The following examples
are highly effective herbal combinations:

For the Immune System
Astragalus/Cleavers Compound - Supports the immune and endocrine systems.
Anti-viral. Helpful for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Echinacea/Astragalu s Compound - A broad spectrum immune tonic. Useful as a
general aid in the treatment of both acute and chronic immune imbalances, as
well as for preventive purposes.
Echinacea/Boneset Compound - Supports the immune and respiratory systems.
Helpful for the acute treatment of influenza, fevers and viral infections.
Echinacea Ech-stra Compound - A formulation of Echinacea purpurea root and
flower, Echinacea angustifolia root, and Echinacea pallida root. Support
therapy for colds and chronic infections of the respiratory tract and lower
urinary tract.
Echinacea/Elecampan e Compound - Supports the immune and respiratory systems
An aid in the acute treatment of coughs, colds, sore throats, sinus
problems and other respiratory infections.
Echinacea/Goldensea l Compound - Supports the immune system and acts as an
antibiotic with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. When used at
the first sign of cold or flu symptoms, the severity of these symptoms can
be greatly reduced.
Elecampane/Hyssop Compound - A lung tonic. Supports the respiratory and
immune systems. Assists in the treatment of acute and chronic lower
respiratory conditions such as coughs, bronchitis and asthma.
Hyssop/Purple Loosestrife Compound - Supports the immune and respiratory
systems. An aid in the acute and chronic treatment of upper respiratory
conditions such as head colds and sinus discomfort. Echinacea/Propolis
Throat Spray - A soothing spray for throat irritations as well as an immune
booster and natural antibiotic.

For the Nervous System
Feverfew/Vervain Compound - An aid in the acute and chronic treatment and
prevention of migraine headaches.
Passionflower/ Scullcap Compound - An aid in the treatment of acute and
chronic sleep disorders.
Scullcap/St. John's Wort Compound - A nerve tonic-relaxant. Beneficial for
the treatment of acute and chronic stress and tension headaches.
St. John's Wort/Bugleweed Compound - An aid for the acute and chronic
treatment of mild to moderate depression.

For the Endocrine System
Ginkgo/Wild Sarsaparilla Compound - A non-specific adaptogen. Assists in the
acute and chronic treatment of physical and mental fatigue.
Licorice/Borage Compound - An adrenal tonic. Helpful for the treatment of
acute and chronic adrenal exhaustion and related imbalances.

For the Reproductive System
Chaste Tree/Dong Quai Compound - A female reproductive tonic specifically
formulated to help rebalance hormone levels during menopause.
Partridgeberry/ Dong Quai Compound - A tonic for the female reproductive
system. An aid in the treatment of acute and chronic conditions such as PMS
and menopause.
Saw Palmetto/Heal- All Compound - A prostate tonic. Assists in the acute and
chronic treatment and prevention of prostatitis and related conditions.

For Detoxification and Elimination
Black Cohosh/Celery Compound - An aid in the treatment of chronic
inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
Dandelion/Cleavers Compound - Supports all organs and processes associated
with general detoxification. Useful as a cleansing aid as well as in the
treatment of chronic skin conditions.
Goldenrod/Dandelion Compound - A urinary tonic. An aid in the treatment and
prevention of acute and chronic urinary tract disorders and mild urinary
tract infections.
Yellowdock/Dandelio n Compound - A tonic for the liver and gall bladder.
Helpful in the treatment of acute and chronic liver and gall bladder
congestion, and as an aid to detoxification when the liver specifically
needs support. Burdock/Sheep Sorrel Compound - Based on the formulation used
by Rene Caisse, the therapeutic properties of this compound have been
enhanced by the addition of herbs that deepen its detoxifying properties and
broaden its affect on the immune system.

For the Digestive System
Elecampane/Dandelio n Compound - A general digestive tonic. Helpful for the
acute and chronic treatment of indigestion, gas and bloating.