Ginseng root and herb is an ingredient in thousand of formulas used by people to provide energy and health. This is most frequently used herb.

This herb is not easy to produce and it takes six years to reach maturity. Ginseng contains vitamins, minerals, fat-soluble compounds, carbohydrate compounds and nitrogenous compounds. Scientists say this herb can enhance the immune system and can affect the whole body.

There are a few types of ginseng: Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular type. It is found in China, Korea and Japan. Siberian ginseng grows in Korea, China, Japan and Russia. American ginseng can be found from Quebec to Minnesota, in Georgia and Oklahoma.

American and Asian ginsengs both have similar chemical composition and are known to have healing potentials. The herb grown in North America is most desired and most expensive, as it is believed to have stronger properties.

Echinacea is also known as coneflowers. It grows in Midwestern United Stated, in meadows or wet valleys. This wildflower is used for medical purposes but it also grown in gardens because of its beautiful purple blossoms.

This herb is very beneficial for many medical conditions. Thus, it enhances the function of the immune system as it stimulates white blood cells. Their function is to attack viruses and bacteria to prevent illnesses or infections. This property of Echinacea is very beneficial for individuals with AIDS whose immune system is very weak. Currently, a large numbers of studies and tests strive to make better research of this property of the herb because its full effect on people with AIDS and cancer is still not known very well.

Echinacea is also very effective for treatment of respiratory problems such as colds. Various researches have proven that Echinacea is also effective as an antiviral and antifungal treatment.

In Europe, the herb is used to treat some types of cancer. In addition, some medical specialists in Europe use Echinacea to cure infections of the urinary tract. But none of these practices are common in America.

Echinacea is also used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. This herbal plant is also included in products for treatment of hemorrhoid or for soothing of inset bites. Many people use the herb to protect their skin from sun damage.

In case you want to make tea of Echinacea, you should put 1-2 teaspoons of the herb in a cup full with unheated water. You should heat the mixture slowly until it boils and then simmer it for about 10-12 minutes. The Echinacea tea can be taken three times per day. If you prefer to use it as a tincture, you should take 1-4 milliliters three times per day.

Seizure is defined as an abnormal movement or behavior due to unusual electrical activity in the brain, according to WebMD. Epilepsy is a group of related disorders characterized by a tendency for recurrent seizures.

German scientists, writing in the Journal of Natural products, said that they were convinced that the herb could have a “detrimental effect.”

“Contrary to our own previous assumption, we are now convinced, however, that G. biloba medications and other products can have a detrimental effect on a person’s health condition,” they said.

“It is therefore important that the large number of G. biloba product users and their health care providers be made aware of these risks, in order to enable them to make informed decisions about the use of these preparations.”

Review of past research
To reach this conclusion, researchers Eckhard Leistner and Christel Drewke from the University of Bonn reviewed previously done scientific research on gingko and found 10 reports of seizures linked to the herb.

The researchers noted that people use pills, tea, and other products prepared from the leaves of Gingko tree as a remedy for treating a wide range of health problems such as depression [a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity] , memory loss, dizziness, headaches, alcohol abuse, blockage in blood vessels etc.

For the study, they particularly focused on one chemical compound in the herb, a potentially toxic material called gingkotoxin.

Gingko biloba linked to seizures
Evidence from the laboratory studies found that gingkotoxin might alter the chemical signaling pathways in the body in a way that it triggers epileptic seizures.

Further evidences suggest that the herb may also interfere with the effectiveness of anti-seizure medications.

The researchers noted that gingko biloba showed “clear potential for adverse effects,” particularly in vulnerable patients.

The study also suggests that the herb may cause harmful effects in people without the epilepsy condition, but who eat raw or roasted Ginkgo seed or drink tea prepared from Ginkgo leaves.

Experts’ advice
Although the evidence was not compelling enough to prove that the herb caused the seizures in the reported cases, the patients should be warned of the possibility and the manufacturers should re-examine the toxic level of the herb, the researchers recommended.

Professor John Duncan, from the National Society for Epilepsy, said, “We believe that some herbs, for example St John’s wort, are linked to a higher risk of seizures, but there is still not a great deal of evidence about problems related to ginkgo.

“We would say that if someone who has epilepsy wants to take this remedy, they should simply be aware of the possibility.”

If you suffer from an inflammation-related condition such as arthritis, neck and back pain, or tendonitis, adding anti-inflammatory herbs to your health regimen may help you manage your pain. Although not as fast-acting as standard pain medication, such herbs may significantly diminish your pain when used regularly (especially when combined with daily exercise and the practice of relaxation techniques, both of which can provide pain reduction).

Keep in mind that anti-inflammatory herbs won’t heal your condition itself, despite their pain-easing effects. Furthermore, addressing the cause of chronic inflammation is essential for working your way toward optimal health; not only known to generate pain, inflammation is a major risk factor for chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Be sure to consult your primary care provider before using herbs, to avoid making common mistakes.

Herbal Pain Relief

Here’s a look at six inflammation-fighting herbs that may provide pain relief.

1) White Willow Bark

Containing aspirin-like compounds, this herb was found to be as effective as conventional medicine in lessening pain among people with mild to fairly severe knee and hip problems in a 2008 study. White willow bark may also alleviate acute back pain, joint pain, and osteoarthritis.

2) Boswellia

Sourced from a resin found in the bark of frankincense trees, boswellia has been shown to thwart chemical reactions involved in inflammation. Practitioners of ayurvedic medicine have long used boswellia to treat arthritis; the herb may also benefit people with inflammatory bowel disease.

3) Devil’s Claw

Traditionally used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, devil’s claw may also soothe pain resulting from osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and back and neck troubles. In a 2007 study of 259 people with rheumatic conditions, researchers found that 60% of study members either reduced or stopped their pain medication after eight weeks of taking devil’s claw. The herb also appeared to improve the participants’ quality of life.

4) Bromelain

An enzyme extracted from pineapple stems, bromelain reduces levels of prostaglandins, which are hormones that induce inflammation. Bromelain may benefit people with arthritis and conditions marked by musculoskeletal tension (such as TMJ syndrome), as well as those suffering trauma-related inflammation. What’s more, the enzyme may promote healing in muscles and connective tissues.

5) Curcumin

Another ayurvedic remedy known to tame arthritis pain, curcumin is a compound found in the curry spice turmeric. In an animal-based study published in 2007, scientists discovered that curcumin can overpower pro-inflammatory proteins called cytokines. The compound may also help decrease pain associated with autoimmune disorders and tendonitis.

6) Ginger

While sipping ginger tea can help relieve cold-related congestion, supplementing with this warming herb may deliver long-lasting health effects. Research indicates that ginger may calm arthritis pain, possibly by lowering your prostaglandin levels. One 2005 study even suggests that ginger could reduce pain and inflammation more effectively than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin).

Researchers analyzed data on 179,295 people, examining the association between use of mu tong and incidence of urinary tract cancer. Study results showed that having been prescribed more than 60 g of mu tong was associated with an increased risk of urinary tract cancer. The increased risk was independent of arsenic exposure (another risk factor for urinary tract cancer).

The study’s authors call for a ban on products that contain any amount of aristolochic acid. They also recommend that patients with a history of consumption of mu tong be monitored regularly for urinary cancer.

Now, a number of studies are exploring the benefits beyond green tea’s heart-healthy, anti-cancer, stress-reducing effects. Here’s a look at some of the most promising findings so far.

1) Healthy Teeth and Gums

In a 2009 study, scientists sized up the periodontal health of 940 men and found that those who drank green tea on a regular basis had healthier gums than participants who skimped on the drink. For every cup of green tea sipped daily, in fact, there was a significant decrease in several indicators of periodontal disease (such as bleeding upon probing of the gum tissue).

Past research also indicates that drinking green tea may help you avoid tooth erosion.

2) Stroke Prevention

Another 2009 study suggests that drinking green tea each day can significantly slash your risk of stroke (the third leading cause of death in the United States). In reviewing nine studies on a total of nearly 195,000 people, researchers found that three daily cups of tea reduced stroke risk by 21%. What’s more, consuming three more cups a day appeared to decrease stroke risk by an additional 21%.

3) Better Brain Power

Gulping green tea could preserve your brain power as you age, according to a 2006 study. The study’s authors looked at tea consumption among 1,003 Japanese people (ages 70 and up), finding that those who drank the most green tea were the least likely to show signs of weakened brain function. For instance, study members who had a cup of green tea four to six times weekly were 38% less likely to display signs of cognitive impairment than those who drank green tea less than three times per week.

Or, better yet, he or she is on a crowded plane full of people with highly contagious flu symptoms and they manage to stroll off completely unscathed – and ready for a power workout?

Even if you are one of these super humans, during the cold, winter months when there are a host of heavy-hitting viruses lurking just about everywhere ready to pounce, the key to optimum health is to increase immunity. One easy – and equally satisfying – way to do so is to incorporate more of these ten common herbs and spices into your daily cooking routine. Not only will you be feeling and looking your best, but your food may actually taste better than ever, too!

Immune-boosting herbs and spices As always, buying organic is your best bet whenever possible.

1. Cinnamon

More than likely, you’ve had a good, healthy dose of cinnamon in all the sweets and spiced lattes you enjoyed over the holiday season. Although there was probably an equal amount of sugar in all those treats, you still may have enjoyed some of the immune stimulation cinnamon has been documented to create.

Warm, fragrant and somewhat fiery, cinnamon is one of the oldest spices and comes from the inner bark and branches of the cinnamon tree. Rich in antioxidants that inhibit blood clotting and bacterial growth, cinnamon provides relief from early cold symptoms and keeps the immune system on ultra high alert.

Try adding ½-1 teaspoon to your morning oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, smoothie or coffee. It’s also equally fabulous and adds a significant “wow factor” in many of winter’s hearty braised meat dishes or oven-roasted root vegetables.

2. Ginger

Contrary to popular belief, ginger isn’t a root at all. It’s a stem, which means it contains a plethora of living compounds that benefit health. It has been a natural remedy for ailments for centuries, if not longer. One of the most prevalent compounds found in ginger is called gingerol, a known cancer suppressor. Cooking fresh ginger turns this compound into what’s called zingerone, a less pungent and spicy version of its fresh counterpart. Good news for those who find ginger somewhat strong or overwhelming.

A really great trick to peeling fresh ginger is to use the back of a teaspoon. With some pressure, peel away the very outer skin of the stem. To get the most bang for your buck, finely mince or grate ginger with a microplane. This allows all the essential oils to be released into the food – and all the viruses to go running for the door.

Try adding a small knob of peeled ginger, a cinnamon stick and some honey to a steaming hot cup of water for an instant throat soother.

3. Garlic

Okay, I know I’m not telling you anything new here. There are so many claims about the health benefits of garlic that I won’t go into the tedious detail of every last one. But, I happen to be a very big fan of the little clove – for big flavor and maximum wellness.

Sulfur, one of the compounds responsible for garlic’s characteristic scent, is a mighty antibacterial and antiviral agent that teams up with vitamin C to kill off any harmful microbes. That’s one superhero I’d like on my side.

As with ginger, finely mincing, crushing or grating garlic allows all the beneficial compounds to escape the omnipotent clove. The longer you cook garlic, the less potent the antioxidant properties are. Therefore, adding garlic during the last ten minutes of cooking keeps the beneficial compounds intact.

If you’ve never heard of or tried it, you owe it to yourself to track down some black garlic, a deeply flavorful, fermented cousin of garlic. It’s rumored to contain nearly twice the amount of antioxidants. For a good resource check out: www.blackgarlic.com (and feel free to email me for recipe ideas – beth@saffronlane.com)

4. Cayenne Pepper

Arguably one of the most powerful of spices, cayenne pepper’s electric red color indicates that it’s rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, both incredibly potent antioxidants. If you already have a cold or sinus infection, it’s no secret that cayenne pepper will almost immediately clear mucus from the nasal passage. It helps dispel any lingering blockage from the lungs, too.

Also beneficial for the heart, digestive system –unless you suffer from a gastrointestinal disorder – and circulatory system, cayenne pepper is one of the top immune-boosting spices you can incorporate into your diet.

Isn’t winter the perfect time to make a huge pot of fiery chili anyway? Or, add a little to your cup of hot cocoa for a spicy twist to an old favorite.

5. Fennel

I recently introduced a client to fennel for the first time and I think I may have him hooked. Good thing, because fennel contains its own unique combination of phytonutrients that give it strong antioxidant activity.

Reminiscent of licorice, fennel has a distinct flavor and imparts a warm, stimulating aroma to food. Revered for its culinary and medicinal properties since ancient times, Europeans once used fennel in amulets to shield from witchcraft.

If that’s not enough reason to stock up, it’s also a very effective digestive aid and breath freshener. Try chewing a couple dried fennel seeds next time you have a heavy meal or a little too much garlic. It works like a charm every time.
For a great rub for chicken, pork, fish or to dust on vegetables before roasting combine:
• 1 tablespoon dried fennel, finely crushed
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary, finely crushed
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, finely crushed
• 2 teaspoons dried sage, finely crushed
• ¼ teaspoon dried lavender, finely crushed
• Pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Keep any leftover spice mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot.

6. Turmeric

A key component in everything from your favorite curry to the French’s mustard on your hotdog at the ballpark, turmeric has been called the miracle spice. For centuries, ancient Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine has regarded this bright, golden spice with potent healing properties.

Once called Indian Saffron, turmeric has been harvested for more than 5,000 years. A warming yet somewhat sharp spice, like cayenne pepper, is incredibly high in antioxidants. It has also been known to significantly boost immune system activity making it an ideal spice to consume during the cold/flu season.

Curcumin, the much talked about compound in turmeric that provides its prized yellow hue, has been reported to also provide significant protection against a wide variety of cancers as well as to treat inflammatory digestive disorders and rheumatoid arthritis without side effects.

To increase your intake, try adding some organic turmeric to any recipes containing beans, lentils or rice. As an added bonus, turmeric has been used for ages as a natural beauty treatment – I love to use it in masques and gentle exfoliants leaving behind that much sought after rosy, youthful glow.

7. Coriander

If you close your eyes and smell freshly ground coriander, it has an aroma reminiscent of Fruit Loops. It’s an incredibly flavorful spice with bright notes of citrus peel and fresh sage.

The source is considered both an herb and a spice – its leaves are the well-known cilantro herb; its seeds are the sought after coriander spice. The early physicians, including Hippocrates, used coriander for its extensive medicinal properties.

Great in soups and broths, this spice is also amazing in throat-soothing beverages. In a saucepan, heat some organic vanilla soymilk, freshly ground coriander, cinnamon and fresh ginger. For a touch more sweetness, a little organic raw honey may be added once removed from the heat.

8. Black Pepper

Not only is black pepper a spice that is called for in a majority of recipes and goes hand-in-hand with salt in American cuisine, it was once so revered that it was used as currency by the ancient Greeks.

To get you on track after holiday indulgence, the outer layer of the peppercorn stimulates the breakdown of fat cells. It’s also incredibly high in antioxidants, is an antibacterial aid, promotes the health of the digestive tract and encourages the body to sweat, ridding it of toxins.

Like cayenne pepper, black pepper helps dispel the congestion associated with the common cold. Try adding some to a warm cup of organic mint tea.

9. Cardamom

A member of the ginger family, warm, sweet cardamom hails from India. In many ancient cultures, cardamom was considered an aphrodisiac and was extensively called for in love potions.

An incredibly versatile spice, cardamom can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Among many other health benefits, this little pod is used frequently to increase circulation to the lungs, which is especially critical in ridding the body of any bronchial illness.

A primary spice in chai tea, I love to add a little to my morning latte instead of cinnamon. Also, try adding a tablespoon to your coffee grounds before brewing. It adds a nice, subtle aroma and flavor that you simply can’t get from any other spice.

10. Cumin

One of my favorite spices, cumin imparts an earthy, peppery flavor with notes of bright citrus. A darling in Middle Eastern, Mexican and Indian cooking, cumin is one of your strongest defenses.

The essential oils present in this oblong, ridged seed act as disinfectants and expel viral infections. Also, it is an active ally to the respiratory system because it dries up excess mucus and mitigates the formation of the cough. Incredibly rich in iron and vitamin C, this is one tough immune builder and should be used as often as possible.

Because cumin quickly loses its flavor and health benefits, whenever possible, buy cumin seeds and grind fresh when you need them. To bring out the fullness and aroma of this versatile spice, it’s best to gently toast over medium heat before using. A spice commonly used in chili and bean dishes, try adding some to brown rice, organic chicken and roasted vegetables.

Cardamon pods and spice Your pantry can be your best immune defense to ward off potential harmful viruses this season. All it takes it a little time and creativity, just as nature intended.

If you have any treasured family secrets–that you don’t mind divulging –in keeping healthy during the cold and flu season, I’d love to hear them!

Statistics from the U.S. National Poison Data System prove otherwise. According to a 174-page report just published, the number of people killed in 2009 across America by vitamins, minerals, amino acids or herbal supplements is exactly zero.

Compare that to the 100,000 (or so) Americans killed each year by FDA-approved pharmaceuticals — and that’s even according to studies published in JAMA. Also consider the thousands of women harmed or killed by medically-unjustified cancer treatments following false positives from faulty mammograms. And don’t forget about the more than 16,500 Americans killed each year from internal bleeding caused by NSAIDs (over-the-counter painkillers).

As the July 1998 issue of The American Journal of Medicine explains:

“Conservative calculations estimate that approximately 107,000 patients are hospitalized annually for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related gastrointestinal (GI) complications and at least 16,500 NSAID-related deaths occur each year among arthritis patients alone.” (Singh Gurkirpal, MD, “Recent Considerations in Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Gastropathy”, The American Journal of Medicine, July 27, 1998, p. 31S)

So if NSAIDs alone are killing 16,500 people a year (or likely much more now, as use of these drugs has risen significantly since 1998), and nutritional supplements are killing zero people a year, why do health regulators try to scare everybody about vitamins being so “dangerous?”

Pharmaceuticals, meanwhile, are openly allowed to be prescribed for off-label use, meaning that doctors can prescribe them for diseases and health conditions for which they’ve never even been tested!

What’s wrong with this picture? It’s clearly a war against nutrition — a war against natural medicine — being waged by the health regulators of the world who are conspiring with Big Pharma to keep the people trapped in a state of malnutrition (all while profiting from their disease by selling them more patented pharmaceuticals).

The Orthomolecular Medicine News Service published a full article on this issue. Here’s what they had to say about the safety of nutritional supplements and the misguided attempts by world governments to limit or outlaw many supplements.