Before we define and analyze the specifics of a number of herbal preparations, as well as check out the tips on making them at home, there are some things and considerations one should go through before coming directly to the point. As I’ve mentioned before, preparing own herbal teas, decoctions, extracts, infusions and other types of herbal remedies is a very interesting and creative process, which however requires certain skills and knowledge.

First of all, it is necessary to study very thoroughly all available theoretical materials and information about the methods of making herbal preparations: using leaves, stems, seeds, flowers, roots and other parts of medicinal herbs and plants. It is essential to master precise measurement techniques, learn herb specifics and adjustments of the amounts of every each herb you may need to use. For example, definitely an ounce of ginger root is nothing like an ounce of dried sage leaves.

Also, it is necessary to remember that herbs and medicinal plants are absolutely not like the prescription medications we all use quite often.  They can not give us immediate relief or immediate effects, and it requires quite a patience to benefit from maximum effectiveness of one or another herbal preparation or herbal remedy. It is usually believed that 5-6 weeks are required to feel the first effects of using herbal remedies, no matter if it is a tincture, or a herbal tea, or an extract. However, herbal remedies and herbal preparations are the ones which can offer us lasting beneficial effects, which are especially priceless especially in the cases or chronic diseases and ailments.

Those of us who eat berries like strawberries, blackberries or blueberries (fresh or frozen) on a regular basis should not worry about their mental abilities and memory, even in the old age. The scientists say that the compounds which can be found in these types of berries can help in keeping our brain healthy and young, as well as supporting its essential functions and processes as we  age.

The scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging in Boston have found out that the above mentioned berries contain high levels of polyphenolics, special natural compounds which have very strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and can assist in slowing down aging processes. Consuming these berries is linked to lower risks of age-associated decline in brain function.

One of the authors of the study, Shibu Poulose, Ph.D., says that this is the first research that have found links between regular consumption of berries and maintaining proper brain functions. The scientists discovered that polyphenolics help the cells called microglia in toxin removal: in particular, cleaning the proteins which cause memory loss and other age-related mental problems.

“In aging, microglia fail to do their work, and debris builds up. In addition, the microglia become over-activated and actually begin to damage healthy cells in the brain,” Poulose comments. Therefore, consuming berries, as well as some fruits with deep color pigments can  help in achieving the above stated effects. The findings of this research were recently presented at the American Chemical Society meeting.

China is a cradle of herbal medicine, and the depth of knowledge about therapeutic properties and healing powers of herbs in the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine is really impressive. Modern scientists from the Homeland of Confucius are widely utilizing the rich knowledge received from their ancestors, and the achievements and new discoveries of modern Chinese herbalists and medical scientists are sometimes truly amazing and very promising.

Recently, in particular, a group of the researchers at the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Science, leaded by Dr Ying Leng, gave a hope to those millions of patients who suffer from type 2 diabetes. The scientists have found out that emodin, a natural substance which can be extracted from such Chinese herbs as Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) and Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), can be effective for reducing the impact of the disease.

The mechanics of the process is explained as an ability of emodin to block the activities of an enzyme called 11-Beta-HSD1 which defines our body’s response to sugar and plays a role in the development of the disease. Giving emodin to mice has shown positive results, and, according to Dr. Y. Leng: “Researchers would need to develop chemicals that have similar effects as emodin, and see which if any of these could be used as a therapeutic drug.” The findings of the Chinese scientists were published in August edition of the British Journal of Pharmacology.

In addition to miraculous powers of Chinese herbs, the results of another study on finding natural solutions for type 2 diabetes were published this month in the British Medical Journal. Medical specialists at the University of Leicester made a large review of a number of previous researches directed on finding the links between diabetes and a diet plan based on fruit and veggies. These studies involved more than 200,000 participants and the final idea was the following: adding leafy veggies to everyone’s diet can protect us against diabetes. The nutritionists say that just 5 servings a week of the foods like spinach can lower the risks of type 2 diabetes up to 14%.

Herbs and medicinal plants play a huge role in modern medicine. They can help us prevent and lower the chances of one or another disease, assist in curing our ailments and sicknesses. They can be also used for cleansing our body, stimulating blood circulation and metabolism, slowing down aging processes and rejuvenating our body tissues, as well as for various other purposes. However, what are the ways to prepare and administer medicinal herbs and plants for our health benefits?

Actually, the ways of using herbs and preparing various herbal remedies were developed by our ancestors through trial and error process. Ancient herbalists have found out that most plants and herbs that grow around us have one or another therapeutic power, sometimes even many of such powers. And since ancient times it was known that some herbs or plants are more effective and productive if used dried, or fresh, or when they are powdered, or when they are administered in capsules or as an infusion.

Therefore, for external or internal uses, herbs and plants come in a number of forms. Those include the most popular ones: herbal teas (or herbal infusions), herbal capsules (or tablets) and supplements, herbal tinctures and extracts. Also, herbs can be used in the forms of poultices and bolus, decoctions,  Solar and Lunar infusions, salves and ointments, compresses (or formentations), elixirs and syrups, herbal powders, chewable herbs and herbal candies, herbal baths, etc. For example, fresh or dried medicinal herbs and plants can be added to your fruit or veggie salads, stews and all possible dishes.

Most of the above mentioned herbal preparations can be found in our pharmacies, natural foods shops and other places where ready-made natural products are sold. However, more and more people prefer making their own herbal preparations and products, this way being sure that the herbal remedies they use are of high quality. Unlike popular idea, making own herbal preparations is not a very difficult thing, which requires making lots of efforts. On the contrary, isn’t it a pleasure to discover new healing powers and therapeutic effects of the herbs around you? Read more articles from this category about what you need to know about herbal preparations, finding, storing and preparing the herbs, determining doses and so on…

Every one of two women at some point experience the attacks of cystitis. This ailment is considered to be among female type diseases as the urethra in a female body is much shorter that the one in a male body. Cystitis is a disease linked to infections, irritation or inflammation of urinary system and bladder. There are several types of cystitis, including interstitial cystitis, hemorrhagic cystitis, and traumatic cystitis, the most common type, is caused by bruising, usually during sexual intercourse.

The symptoms of cystitis include frequent calls for urination, pressure in the lower pelvis, moderate or strong burning sensation when urinating, pains and aches in the abdominal ares, inability to empty the bladder completely and others. Sometimes, the infection can be quite dangerous, therefore it is necessary to begin treatment as soon as possible. Fortunately, there is a variety of very effective home remedies for cystitis, which can generally help women to manage with the symptoms within one-two days.

Cranberry juice, cucumber juice and parsley root tincture are considered to be the most powerful herbal remedies for cystitis. In particular, it is recommended to use a cup of cucumber juice with a teaspoon of lemon juice and/or honey 3 times a day. Lady’s finger decoction, radish leave and spinach juice are also effective for cystitis. Lemon juice, dandelion leaf, chickweed, cleavers, drumstick flowers are other excellent herbal remedies for cystitis. Specialists recommend using several teaspoons of echinacea tincture a day to boost your resistance to this ailment.

Besides, it is possible to use sandalwood oil and consume 3-5 drops along with boiled soft ginger root slices. Other homemade remedies for cystitis include barley gruel mixed with buttermilk, uva-ursi and other berries, freshly squeezed carrot juice and so on. It is recommended also to keep pelvis area in warmth and give a good rest to the body to fight the infection effectively. If you have severe pains, immense your abdominal area in hot waters, and use some relaxing essential oils to rise your spirit up. Avoid sexual intercourse, alcohol and too sweet foods which can have negative effects on cystitis.

Many natural remedies and foods on our tables are reported to have powerful anti-cancer properties. Those include garlic, berries, cabbage, broccoli, leeks, onions, spinach, soybeans and many more. Recently, the scientists at Southampton University carried out a research and studied cancer fighting properties of one more known remedy for this disease, watercress. They managed to find scientific evidence proving the effectiveness of watercress as an excellent anti-cancer protective remedy.

During the experiments, the participants were offered to take only 80 grams daily dose of watercress. Examinations have shown that the levels of cancer fighting cells in the body were elevating in just few hours after consuming this natural food. According to the information at the Telegraph, watercress can be especially effective for lowering the occurrence and preventing the development of breast cancer.

Professor Graham Packham from the Cancer Research UK Centre at Southampton University, one of the leaders of the research, underlines that this amazing anti-cancer properties of watercress can be attributed to isothiocyanates, spacial chemical compounds of natural origin, which can interfere and inhibit cancer cells growth. He says that the study give great grounds for further researches and possibly even using watercress extracts for creating a new treatment to help those who suffer from breast cancer. Read more about this study in the recent issue of the British Journal of Nutrition.

According to a recent study, adding some high quality coconut oil to our diet can help us get rid of extra fat and extra pounds, as well as prevent type 2 diabetes. Sounds great, uh? Australian specialists from Sydney’s Garvan Institute of Medical Research have discovered that consuming small doses of coconut oil on a daily basis can assist in keeping low fat levels in the body and protect against insulin resistance, this way lowering the chances of type 2 diabetes.

The scientists leaded by Nigel Turner and Jiming Ye monitored insulin resistance and fat metabolism of mice which were given lard and coconut oil based diet. The research has shown that coconut oil is very rich in medium chain fatty acids, which behave differently than long chain fatty acids we usually consume in great amounts with fats in our diet. They can help our body lose fat more effectively.

“Unlike the long chain fatty acids contained in animal fats, medium chain fatty acids are small enough to enter mitochondria – the cells’ energy burning powerhouses – directly where they can then be converted to energy,” Nigel Turner comments. “Unfortunately the downside to eating medium chain fatty acids is that they can lead to fat build up in the liver, an important fact to be taken into consideration by anyone considering using them as a weight loss therapy,” he adds.

How much fat we have in our body depends on how much fat we consume and how much of it we burn for energy in our daily activities. Specialists estimate that obese people consume up to 50 % of fat with their daily diet. During the experiment the mice were given 45% of their diet as fat, but as a result those who consumed coconut oil were more effective in weight management. Read more about this study in an online scientific magazine Diabetes.

Jasmine essential oil is among the natural oils with the most delicate, rich and very beautiful sweet floral aroma, that makes it a valuable ingredient for many cosmetic products.  Jasmine is one of the oldest known and used botanical scents. Jasmine essential oil is produced not by steam distillation but rather by solvent extraction. In the Middle Ages jasmine was growing mostly in China, North India and North Africa, and in the 17th century jasmine oil was introduced to Europe.

The word “Jasmine” has Persian origins, and Asian nationalities used jasmine branches with gorgeous white blossoms for their various ceremonies and rituals. In early times, in Egypt, China, Morocco and the Osman Empire jasmine flowers were used for producing flavored tea, and jasmine oil was primarily valued for its excellent aphrodisiac properties. Also, jasmine oil has been known as the oil for women as it has the properties to balance hormones, relieve menstrual pains and cramps, as well as relieve the pains while giving birth.

Emotional and physical benefits of jasmine essential oil are numerous. In the context of aromatherapy it is known as a powerful sedative and relaxant, which warms and induces sleep. This oil is one of the most common ones for meditation, stimulating the feeling of harmony and optimism, inducing joy and happiness, etc. Also, jasmine essential oil is used for its antidepressant and uplifting properties, and it is the most effective for those who suffer from chronic fatigue symptom, nervous exhaustion, apathy, low spirit, mood swings and so on.

Also, benefits of jasmine essential oil include analgesic, carminative, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and other properties of this natural product. It is an excellent urinary tonic and a great tonic for greasy, dry, oily, sensitive and irritated skin. It can be effectively used to treat scratches, scars, stretchmarks and other skin imperfections, as well as assist in relieving muscle pains, swellings, stiffness, sprains, etc. Finally, it is beneficial for those who suffer from various respiratory problems, including sore throat, laryngitis, coughs and so on. Jasmine oil can be blended with all other oils, but it goes especially well with sandalwood, orange, vetiver, melissa and rose oils.

Horsetail plant (Equisetum arvense) is one of the most common medicinal plants which usually grows in mud flats and shallow waters. It has a variety of other names: Shavegrass, Mare’s tail, Bottle brush and so on. Horsetail plant has been used for its unique therapeutic power for centuries, since the times of the Roman doctor and physician Galen who is attributed to discovering the majority of healing properties of this herbal remedy. He found out that this plant can be used to stop nasal bleeding and treat strains and severed tendons.

Horsetail plant contains a series of vitamins, minerals like copper, calcium, sodium, potassium, aluminum, manganese, zinc and others, malic, acotinic and silicic acids, beta-sitosterol, palustrine, equisitine, phytosterol, nicotine, fluorine, starch fatty acids and many other essential nutrients and micro-elements. For its rich content of silica compounds, horsetail is used in some industries: in particular, for producing polish tinware. However, as a herbal remedy, it is mostly known for its excellent diuretic properties. Other health benefits of horsetail plant embrace its stimulating, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory powers.

Horsetail tea is the most popular way to use this herbal remedy. Add a table spoon of dried horsetail plant to 250-300 ml of boiling water, keep on low firs for 5 minutes, then leave to cool down for 15-20 minutes. This tea is a rich source of silicon, which is one of the key elements to provide a good health of our skin, nails and hair. Regular use of horsetail tea is linked to stronger teeth, bones and nails, and applying horsetail rinse to your hair can assist in improving hair quality, combating dandruff and preventing hair loss.

Horsetail products can help for increasing urinary flow, removing wastes and bacteria out of the bladder and stimulating body cleansing. It is recommended to use horsetail tea to improve digestion and treat minor digestion disorders, like heartburn, increases acidity, etc. Health benefits of horsetail plant include its powers to speed up healing wounds, cuts, burns and other types of physical damage of the skin. In the same way, horsetail tea can be used to treat small wounds, ulcers and sores in the throat.

Many specialists recommend horsetail tea to those who suffer from such diseases as bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, scarlatina, hepatitis, varicose veins, gum bleeding, polypus, fistula, fractures, strains, incontinence, bed wetting, cystitis  and many more. As a good remedy to prevent water retention, horsetail tea can be used to get rid of swellings linked to arthritis and rheumatic conditions. Remember that those who suffer from congestive heart failure and kidney problems should avoid using horsetail tea, and so do pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Menstrual cramps (or dysmenorrhea) is quite a common health condition and every three of four women regularly suffer from an extreme discomfort and pains in abdominal area before and during their menstrual period. Some women experience only mild cramps and relatively soft pains, but sometimes the pains are severe and the woman can hardly do something else but using a powerful painkiller.

In addition, in most situations menstrual cramps are accompanied with nausea, heaviness in the stomach, headaches, low back pains, water retention, a lack of appetite, insomnia, extreme mood swings, depression, severe exhaustion and other very unpleasant symptoms. Are you looking for natural solutions, helpful tips and effective  homemade remedies for menstrual cramps? First what you need to do is to understand some processes that occur in your body before and during menstrual periods.

Specialists found out that such a thing as calcium deficiency and low levels of calcium in the blood, which start taking place in our body in 10-7 days before the menstruation begins, is one of the main factors responsible for excessive menstrual pains and cramps. Therefore, in order to prevent menstrual cramps and achiness, it is recommended to increase your intake of calcium 12-10 days before your period begins. In addition to that, you can use the following herbs and homemade natural solutions for this problem.

Chamomile tea is among the most common and know herbal remedies for menstrual cramps. Also, it is possible to use special teas and herbal formulas like this one: take one tablespoon of dandelion and burdock root, one teaspoon of licorice root and chaste tree berry, add a pinch of ginger root powder. Use 1 teaspoon of the mixture for preparing 200 ml of tea, and drink such tea 3 times a day before your period starts.

Other herbal remedies for menstrual cramps include horsetail, yarrow, crampbark, nettle, cinnamon, pennyroyal and raspberry leaf, oatsraw and others. To flavor the teas or formulas you can add peppermint or sassafras. Also, you can use lemon grass or ginger root teas to calm down cramps and other types of discomfort in your stomach and abdomen. You can use any of your favorite relaxing and calming essential oils for aromatherapy.

The best homemade remedies for menstrual cramps include various warming poultices which should be placed over the pelvic area. Those are good solutions for abdomen and low back pains. Soaking your feet in warm water can help to relieve swelling and aches. Within you menstrual period, avoid wearing high heels, as well as avoid eating too cold or too heavy meals. Choose the light foods rich in magnesium, calcium and omega 3 fatty acids. Before your period starts, do lots of physical exercises, like walking, jogging or other outdoor activities, to reduce muscle tension.