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Herbs for life!

Note: This document is for educational usage only. The reader is encouraged to form his or her own decisions about the usage of these natural remedial agencies.


REMEDIES FOR INFECTIONS/ IMMUNE SYSTEM TONICS

Pumpkin Seeds:
Pumpkin seeds have been found to fight both larger “worms” and smaller blood born parasites. Here is info from a study looking at an extract of papaya or pumpkin seeds: “The time of paralysis was 1.88±0.52 minute and 1.93 ±0.57 minute whereas the time of death was 3.45 ±0.17 minute and 4.90±0.18 minute in the case of Carica papaya (papaya seeds) and Cucurbita (pumpkin seeds) maxima respectively.”

Sengupta Rupa et al / Int. J. Res. Ayurveda Pharm. 4(4), Jul–Aug 2013

Cucurbitacins (found in pumpkin and squash seeds) fight Plasmodium berghei simulated malaria infection “Active compounds were shown to inhibit the parasite's intracellular development rather than its ability to invade hepatic cells.”

Bioorg Med Chem. 2011 Dec 15;19(24):7474-81.

Also, pumpkin seed and oil has shown good effect on reducing an enlarged prostate gland.

Urol Int. 2015;94(3):286-95.

Echinacea:
This herb may help the antibody producing cells of the immune system to identify threats and direct white blood cells to attack disease-causing agents.

The physiology of this herb has been recently discovered:
It actually decreases # and activity of T-regulatory cells and increases activity of Antigen Presenting Cells (CD4) or Helper T Cells

Nat Prod Commun. 2014 Apr;9(4):511-4.

NOTE: not advisable to take long term because it may increase allergic or autoimmune responses.

Pine Essential Oil:
“There are life-giving properties in the balsam of the pine, in the fragrance of the cedar and the fir, and other trees also have properties that are health restoring.” From the book Ministry of Healing, page 264
This essential oil consists of alpha-pinene and beta-pinene as well as a small amount of D-limonene. Numorous studies in Japan have documented a tremendous ability of alpha and beta pinene to activate a particular type of immune cell known as the “Natural Killer Cell.”  This cell is responsible for finding and destroying cancerous cells in the body. In fact, these cells form what is called the “tumor surveillance system” which is somewhat like a cancer “neighborhood watch.”

In these studies, exposure to pine essential oil has been found to increase number and activity of Natural Killer Cells (that fight viruses and cancer) up to 30 days with three nights vaporizer exposure. Effect lasted 7 days with 1 day’s exposure from pine forest. This treatment also decreased the number of T and B Lymphocytes (could be very helpful in certain autoimmune conditions). In fact, the Natural Killer Cells are thought to play a major role in regulating autoimmune conditions.

Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2009 Oct-Dec;22(4):951-9.
J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2010 Apr-Jun;24(2):157-65.


Alpha Pinene & Beta Pinene may also trigger the release of interferon, which allows the immune system to opportunity to determine which cells are infected/ cancerous from those that may be normal in function.

* instructions for using a steam mist humidifier:
Vicks makes a model known as the “Vapo-steam warm mist humidifier” (available at Wal-mart for under $20). Follow directions in preparing the water reservoir but place a cotton ball saturated in essential oil in the inhalant reservoir (which is located on top of the humidifier NOT the large water reservoir below). Use this in the sleeping quarters but place electrical tape over the bright “night light” found on these humidifiers as it is best to sleep in total darkness to optimize melatonin secretion.

Garlic:
Known as a “pharmacy in a plant.” Uses include: Anti-Clotting Activity, Antibiotic, Anti-Tumor Capabilities, Inhibits growth of Yeast, Antiseptic, Lowers Cholesterol & Triglycerides, Lowers Blood Pressure, Antibacterial.

Molecules. 2014 Aug 19;19(8):12591-618.
Nutr Res. 2014 Feb;34(2):106-15.
Nutr Health. 2015 Jan 8.
Anticancer Agents Med Chem. 2011 Mar;11(3):249-53.


Sprouts - Soybean & Red Clover:
Red clover & Soybeans, but especially their sprouts contain Genistein: an anti-cancer agent (stops metastasis at numerous stages) (can promote apoptosis of cancer cell, increase cell cohesion, decrease range of cancer cell motility, and decrease ability of tumor to break out of the Extra Cellular Matrix)

Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2010 Sep;29(3):465-82. Inhibition of cancer cell invasion and metastasis by genistein.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 86(11):5217–5221


REMEDIES FOR INFLAMMATION:

Organic Sweet Orange Essential Oil:
This oil is 95-96% D-limonene – An extract from citrus peels, this natural solvent has been shown to be a safe and effective skin repairer and scar minimizer (7). It is also a highly effective permeation enhancer for ensuring delivery of active ingredients to tissues under the skin (8). This is good news! Not only does this natural and non-toxic chemical smell great, it has tremendous anti-inflammatory effects: in one study even rivaling that of the steroid drug dexamethasone (9). Other studies have highlighted its anti-tumor effects, particularly against certain types of skin cancer (10, 11). Concerned about mosquitoes? D-Limonene has also been cited as one of the most effective natural insect repellants (12).

This essential oil should be purchased in bulk to save cost (check with www.newdirectionsaromatics.com or bulkapothecary.com). Some people report effectively ingesting in very small amounts (several drops) when properly diluted with food. For those concerned about taking essential oils internally a good alternative is the orange peel itself (use moderately… too much can upset the stomach). It can also be used internally through inhalation: it can be inhaled using a vaporizer or diffuser.  

7) Antiinflamm Antiallergy Agents Med Chem. 2014 Mar;13(1):29-35. 8) J Oleo Sci. 2010;59(7):395-400. 9) J Oleo Sci. 2010;59(8):415-21. 10) J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 2003 Sep;22(3):419-24. 11) Hum Exp Toxicol. 2012 Aug;31(8):798-811. 12) Bioresour Technol. 2008 May;99(7):2507-15.

Turmeric:  
Studies have shown this amazing root may significantly reduce pain and inflammation. How does it work? Turmeric's active compounds block production of two of the bodies' inflammatory substances: Prostaglandin E2 and leukotrienes.
For best absorption and utilization, it is best to take with a small amount of food, at the beginning of a meal, and thoroughly chewed (1 min at least) before swallowing. This simple process increases the activity of the curcumin compounds found in Turmeric.
Rational: Besides decreasing inflammation and inhibiting leukotriene synthesis (compounds that cause increased inflammation especially in the lungs and drive tumor growth), Curcumin also reportedly suppresses tumor-related angiogenesis.
Anticancer Agents Med Chem. 2015 Oct 13.
Clin Cancer Res. 2011 Sep 15;17(18):5953-61.

Ginger:
Like Turmeric, Ginger has been found to reduce pain and inflammation: Blocks production of 2 inflammatory substances Prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene’s

Ginger also helps with stomach irritation & nausea - increases gastric emptying (should not be taken every day)

ALSO: Corn, rice, barley grains, and ginger showed the highest concentrations of melatonin, at 187.8, 149.8, 87.3, 142.3 ng/100 g, respectively.

Eur J Cancer Prev. 2013 Sep; 22(5): 455–460.
J Med Food. 2002 Fall;5(3):153-7.

Cayenne Pepper:
One of the best topical pain relievers – especially effective at eliminating itch sensations. When applied topically it acts upon the underlying nerve receptors that convey pain sensation to the brain.

Gut. 2003 Sep; 52(9): 1233–1235.

Shea Butter:  
A cellular nutrient powerhouse, this oil has been used for centuries, in Africa, for its highly emollient properties. What is less known about this wonderful oil is it’s inherent ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from aches and pains. Some studies have even shown scar tissue and tumor regression due to topical application.

J Complement Integr Med. 2012 Jan 12;9:Article 4.
Wounds. 2011 Apr;23(4):97-106. J Oleo Sci. 2010;59(6):273-80.
Organic Cold Pressed Coconut Oil:
This ultra stable oil blend is also rich in various antioxidants and medium chain triglycerides that have been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain relieving), and antimicrobial effects (1,2). Lauric acid, one of the active constituents of coconut oil has even been found to enhance delivery of desired agents through the skin to targeted tissues (3). This compound has also been found to be exceptionally potent against follicular acne, in one study showing fifteen times greater effectiveness than standard acne medications, such as the toxic compound benzoyl peroxide (3b)! Coconut is also one of the lowest oils in omega-6 fatty acid content, which is fuel for inflammation via the arachidonic acid pathway.

1) Pharm Biol. 2010 Feb;48(2):151-7. 2) Antiinflamm Antiallergy Agents Med Chem. 2013 Aug 1;12(2):158-64. 3) Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod. 2014 Feb;9(1):24-9. 3b) J Invest Dermatol. 2009 Oct;129(10):2480-8.

REMEDIES FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH/ DETOX

Liver Cleanse Tea:
1T Dandelion Root
1T Milk Thistle Seed
500 ml water

Combine in pot and bring to boil. Cover with lid and turn heat to low. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-30 mins. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain tea from herbs and drink throughout day in between meals.

Rationale: This tea is amazing in its potential to both protect liver cells as well as initiate the release of a powerful detoxification chemical known as glutathione.

Food Chem Toxicol. 2010 Jun;48(6):1632-7.

Fresh Aloe Vera:
Substances found in fresh aloe vera have also been found to decrease inflammation and tumor related angiogenesis (which is the formation of a better blood supply to the tumor).

Radomska-Leśniewska DM, et al. Cent Eur J Immunol. 2015.

Here is a simple way to get all the benefits of the whole aloe plant:
Cut a finger sized slice of aloe vera and blend with ½ cup water, strain, drink 30 mins. before meal. I have used this personally for gastritis or upset stomach.

Garlic:
Garlic possesses wonderful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory qualities that could persist throughout the digestive tract (1) and even substantially reduce levels of H Pylori (2). However, garlic also contains large amounts of inulin (a fiber than can be broken down by beneficial bacteria in the gut), therefore it can actually stimulate the growth of more desirable probiotic bacteria while killing off more pathogenic (disease causing) species (3).

1) Mol Nutr Food Res. 2015 Mar;59(3):434-42.
2) Avicenna J Phytomed. 2016 Sep-Oct;6(5):495-501.
3) Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2009 Dec;60(8):717-27.

Lactobacillus Plantarum 299v (Jarrow labs formula)
This very important probiotic bacteria has been found to boost the secretion of an anti-cancer substance known as interferon by immune cells. This bacteria also may help to decrease the permeability of the large intestine (leaky gut) and thereby decrease the autoimmune and hypersensitive food allergies that would detract from the immune system’s ability to fight the tumor.

You can make a yogurt from these capsules as well:

You’ll want to use a plain soymilk that just has soybeans and water (Trader Joe’s plain soy milk, Westsoy plain, etc). After adding the contents of one of these capsules into the container, add about 2T of honey per quart of soy milk and shake well. Cutlure at room temperature for 24-36 hours then refrigerate. The consistency should be like curdled milk but should not smell in the least alcoholic.

Int Immunopharmacol. 2011 Dec;11(12):2017-24. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2011.08.013. Epub 2011 Sep 3.


Overnight Cabbage Salad (high in L. plantarum):
Lactobacillus plantarum is also found in large amounts NATURALLY growing on CABBAGE and other edible plants. However sauerkraut has some undesirable bacteria as well. Here’s how to make a better probiotic food using cabbage:

Ingredients:
Shredded Cabbage (1 Cup)
Purified Water (chlorine in tap water will kill the bacteria) (2 Cups)
Salt (½ tsp)
Cabbage juice (fresh) plus pulp from juicer (see recipe below)
Lemon Juice (1/4 cup)

Basic recipe is to take a head of cabbage and run half through a juicer. Then shred the other half and combine cabbage juice, shredded cabbage, and cabbage pulp in a large mason jar. Add a tablespoon of salt and a half cup of fresh lemon juice (very important - otherwise you will be culturing other organisms like L Brevis - a heterofermenter) and fill to brim of jar with purified water. Put lid on tightly and shake well. Leave in the refrigerator for two days. This provides the ideal environment for this beneficial organism to grow. If you want to speed up the culture you can add a capsule of the probiotic but since L plantarum is naturally found in cabbage this is not entirely necessary.

Broccoli Sprouts:
Broccoli sprouts contain very high amounts of a compound, called Sulforaphane, which is a powerful antioxidant and selectively targets H. pylori (the organism responsible for most stomach and duodenal ulcers). This means that H. pylori can be destroyed by this compound while leaving other, more beneficial bacteria unharmed.
1) Gut Liver. 2015 Jul;9(4):486-93.


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