Tonifying the Colon with Triphala

Constipation and improper elimination seem to be at an all-time high in many societies today. As a result, people looking for natural solutions may turn to ongoing magnesium supplementation; foods known to move the bowels, such as prunes; and herbs, such as cascara and senna. There are some potential harmful effects of using cascara and senna on an ongoing basis, as they do not address the cause of constipation. Considered "natural laxatives," they can create dependence and disrupt peristalsis (the natural contractions of the bowel).

Instead, an herbal formula that can be very helpful to relieve constipation and restore normal bowel function over time is Triphala. This is a formula made of three herbs: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). High in vitamin C, linoleic oil, and other nutrients, Triphala offers nutritional benefits, as well as blood and liver cleansing actions. It contains some anthraquinones that help to stimulate bile flow and peristalsis. Scientific research and clinical reports demonstrate Triphala to be an effective blood purifier that stimulates bile secretion as it detoxifies the liver, helps digestion and assimilation, and significantly reduces serum cholesterol and lipid levels throughout the body. As a result, it is regarded as a kind of universal panacea and is one of the most commonly prescribed herbal formulas in India.

As always, addressing the root cause of improper elimination is first and foremost. So, before starting on any substance or formula, discuss the best strategy for you with Dr. Bossio.

Resources

• Gowda, D.V., G. Muguli, P.R. Rangesh, and R.D. Deshpande. "Phytochemical and Pharmacological Actions of Triphala: Ayurvedic Formulation - A Review." International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review & Research 15, no. 2 (July/August 2012).
• Mukherjee, P.K., et al. "Clinical Study of Triphala - A Well Known Phytomedicine from India." Iranian Journal of Pharmacology & Therapeutics 5, no. 1 (January 2006).
• Svoboda, R. Prakriti: Your Ayurvedic Constitution. Lotus Press: 1998.
• Tierra, M. "The Wonders of Triphala: Ayurvedic Formula for Internal Purification." Accessed February 17, 2015.

Image Attribution: ChamilleWhite/bigstock.com

Chlorella: Unlocking the Secrets of a Superfood

Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater microalgae that has flourished for nearly two billion years. Photosynthesizing its energy from the sun, chlorella is a powerhouse of nutrients. It is a natural source of vegetarian protein—about 60 percent—a very high level for a plant. Due to this high protein concentration and chlorella’s naturally rapid growth rate, after World War II, chlorella was investigated as a possible food source.
 
Chlorella is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—including B-vitamins, vitamins A and D, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. This unique combination of nutrients within chlorella is a primary reason why scientists around the world are actively researching* medicinal uses for this aquatic-based superfood.
 
Chlorella’s potential benefits for health and vitality include:

• detoxification from heavy metals, including mercury;
• supporting optimal immune system function;
• antioxidant properties;
• anti-inflammatory properties;
• healthy cholesterol metabolism; and
• support for digestive health.

It is widely accepted that the structure of the cell wall in chlorella allows it to bind with heavy metals, essentially keeping the phytonutrient healthy, and it’s the primary reason chlorella has survived for millennia, even in polluted aquatic environments. This rare ability to bind to toxins has given rise to preclinical studies on the role chlorella may play in detoxification for optimal health in humans, as our internal environment is primarily aquatic.
 
There are many types of chlorella on the market, in pill and powder form. The cellular properties of chlorella must be broken down for human digestion, known as “broken cell-wall chlorella.” Therefore, chlorella must be developed under careful quality control conditions. Additionally, Daily Values for this nutrient have not been established. It is imperative to consult with Dr. Bossio before selecting a chlorella supplement.
 
*(chemical assays, animal and limited human studies)
 
Resources

• Merchant, R.E., and C.A. Andre. “A Review of Recent Clinical Trials of the Nutritional Supplement Chlorella Pyrenoidosa in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia, Hypertension, and Ulcerative Colitis.” Abstract. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine 7, no. 3 (May-June 2001): 79-91. 
• Sample of studies indexed in PubMed database for “chlorella supplementation” 
• Wu, Y., and W.X. Wang. “Intracellular Speciation and Transformation of Inorganic Mercury in Marine Phytoplankton.” Abstract. Aquatic Toxicology 148 (March 2014):122-9. 

Image Attribution: Kesu01/bigstock.com

Parsley: More than Just a Garnish

Often thought of only as garnish for a pretty plate, parsley is a delicious, vibrant green herb with many culinary uses and health benefits. The seed, leaf, and root all can be used in preparation of foods, teas, and medicines. It is widely used in Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine.
 
A member of the celery family, parsley is a biennial plant that contains two types of unusual components that provide unique health benefits: volatile oils and flavonoids. The active mechanisms of the volatile oil components qualify parsley as a “chemoprotective” food, which means it can help neutralize certain carcinogens such as those found in cigarette smoke. Flavonoids have been shown to function in the body as antioxidants, which can prevent oxygen damage to cells.
 
Parsley is also a vitamin-dense herb. A one-half cup serving provides exceptional amounts of vitamins K, C, and A. In fact, it contains three times as much vitamin C as an orange! It also is rich in folate and has twice the iron of spinach for equivalent serving sizes.
 
Overall, because of its nutrient-rich antioxidant profile, parsley may offer health protective benefits for the cardiovascular system, joints, and digestive system. Medicinally, parsley has been used in both ancient times and as a complementary treatment for symptoms of urinary tract infection and upset stomach.
 
To reap the benefits of parsley in your diet, try:

• sprinkling parsley into stews, casseroles, sauces, soups, and rice dishes;
• adding raw parsley (stems and leaves) to salads;
• blending raw parsley with other herbs and fruits to make a “green smoothie”; or
• sprinkling atop fish in the last few moments of grilling.
• Wash fresh parsley immediately before use; place in cold water, swish around, and then drain. Repeat until all dirt washes away. 

Resources

• Godfrey, M. “Biennial Plants.” Horticulture (May 4, 2009).
• Herb Information Site. “Herb Profile: Parsley.” Accessed February 2015.
• World’s Healthiest Foods. “Parsley.” Accessed February 2015.

Image Attribution:  looby/bigstock.com

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

An aromatic herb with roots in traditional French cooking, tarragon also boasts excellent health and therapeutic benefits.

Health Benefits

• Tarragon is high in vitamins, including the vitamin A precursor beta-carotene, as well as potassium and other nutrients.
• Its antioxidant properties help neutralize the effect of free radicals in the body.
• Tarragon supports cardiovascular health and maintains the health of the female reproductive tract.

Therapeutic Benefits

• High levels of eugenol make it an effective pain reliever, historically used to take the edge off of toothaches.
• Some studies suggest that tarragon may help to increase appetite, which could be useful for those who have poor appetites due to age or illness.
• It's an excellent digestive aid, traditionally used to improve natural digestion and eliminate intestinal worms--as well as relieve common digestive problems such as upset stomach, irritable bowels, and dyspepsia.

As a mild sedative, tarragon may help to relieve anxiety and stress, and work as a sleep aid.
To add a little extra health boost to your meals, try tarragon with vegetables such as artichokes, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes, and salads; with meats such as chicken, rabbit, fish, shellfish, and lobster; or best of all in sauces such as béarnaise sauce.

Even though tarragon is generally safe for regular use as a culinary herb, the appropriate therapeutic dosage will vary based upon age, overall health, and medical conditions. People with a liver condition should only use tarragon at therapeutic levels under the supervision of a doctor. When considering using tarragon, it is best to consult with Dr. Bossio to discuss if tarragon is right for you.

Resources

• Herb Wisdom. "Tarragon Benefits." Accessed January 2014.
• Natural Standard. "Tarragon." Professional Monograph. 2015.
• Pérez-Rosés, R., E. Risco, R. Vila, P. Peñalver, and S. Canigueral. "Effect of Some Essential Oils on Phagocytosis and Complement System Activity." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Published electronically January 19, 2015. PubMed PMID: 25599399.

Image Attribution: kostrez/bigstock.com

Medicinal Herbs, The Fresher, the Better

When it comes to medicinal herbs, freshness and proper handling are key to getting the most potency and value. Usually due to improper storage procedures, bargain-store herbs are often not as potent as they could be. They may have sat in the store for a long time, or worse, may have been exposed to light and air, which causes dried herbs to lose their potency. Additionally, purchasing herbs from an unreputable source leaves you vulnerable to uncertainties, such as not knowing when the herbs were harvested or how they were stored and transferred.

For smart herb buying, look for herb sellers who store their dry medicinal herbs in dark, amber glass containers, and in a temperature and humidity controlled environment. Potent, well preserved dried herbs should retain their natural color, and have a very strong aroma. Green herbs, such as lemon balm, should still be green. Flowers such as calendula should have a vibrant yellow-orange color, and hibiscus should retain its deep maroon color. Roots should show no signs of mold and should be very dry. When evaluating a new herb source, you may also want to ask how frequently the store's stock is rotated. This should happen rather frequently. Medicinal herbs which have already been packaged into capsules or made into tinctures provide some extra assurance, provided that the herbs were fresh when they were used to make the products. Look for tinctures preserved with alcohol or glycerine, as they hold up well over time.

Local growers are usually a great source, because they harvest their herbs in small quantities, and sell them immediately. In addition, they usually know a lot about how to handle and preserve herbs. Medicinal herbs are not an item you should try to save a few bucks on, but you can certainly save time by purchasing your herbs from reputable sellers, such as Heron Botanicals, Blessed Herbs, or Mountain Rose Herbs.

As with any change in or question about supplements or any change to your health regimen, it is a good idea to consult Dr. Bossio for advice and assistance.

REFERENCES

Murray, N.D., Michael, and Pizzorno, N.D., Joseph. 2012. New York, NY: Atria Paperback. The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine.

Bone, Kerry; Mills, Simon. 2013. Elsevier Ltd. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine. 2nd ed.

Image Attribution: ChamilleWhite/bigstock.com

Ginseng

A root that resembles a little human body complete with two arms and legs, ginseng is one of the most popular herbs in the United States. Ginseng root has been prized in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and often is combined with other herbs to bring long life, strength and wisdom to anyone who takes it. But not all ginseng is created equal. Asian, Chinese and Korean ginseng are the same plants, however American ginseng is a relative of the Asian varieties. All of these varieties contain ginsenosides, which researchers think may be the root's most active ingredients. Traditionally, ginseng has been used to support overall health and boost the immune system. Ginseng is also thought to strengthen the body against viruses, and aid in recovery from illness. Although more study is needed, ginseng holds promise in reducing the risk of some types of cancers, slowing down or stopping the growth of tumors, improving symptoms of heart disease, lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol levels, while raising "good" HDL cholesterol levels, lowering high blood pressure and blood sugar levels, increasing alertness, and improving mental and physical performance. It is also widely accepted as helpful in boosting sexual performance. Some studies suggest that it may increase sperm production and motility, as well as decrease erection problems and symptoms of menopause. For adrenal health, ginseng is often utilized as an adaptogen, which is thought to help the body deal with physical or mental stress. Ginseng carries with it a possibility of interaction and intolerance, and may cause nervousness or sleeplessness, especially when combined with caffeine. To avoid complications, consult Dr. Bossio before adding ginseng to your health regimen.

Resources

Asian Ginseng. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Asian Ginseng. University of Maryland Medical Center.

Image Attribution: leungchopan/bigstock.com

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Sometimes referred to as Siberian ginseng, eleuthero is not a true ginseng at all. Like Asian and American ginseng varieties, eleuthero is thought to stimulate the immune system and help to lower blood sugar levels. It has traditionally been used to prevent colds and flu, support cognition and alertness, and to increase energy, longevity, and vitality. Eleuthero is an "adaptogen," which is thought to help the body cope with either mental or physical stress. Unlike true ginsengs however, eleuthero has different active ingredients, including eleutherosides and polysaccharides. Eleuthero root is woody, brownish, wrinkled and twisted, and is available as liquid / solid extracts, powders, capsules, tablets, and as dried or cut root for tea. It is often combined with other herbs and supplements to treat fatigue and cultivate alertness. Similar to other herbs like rhodiola, licorice, ginkgo, ashwagandha and Holy Basil, eleuthero may help manage cortisol distribution in the body and benefit adrenal health. Although this herb is generally considered safe, it could trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. Be sure to talk to Dr. Bossio before taking eleuthero.

Resources

Siberian ginseng. University of Maryland Medical Center.

Eleutherococcus senticosus. NYU Langone Medical Center.

Image Attribution: Barbulat/bigstock.com

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre)

Used in many fields of medicine, Gymnema is native to parts of India as well as tropical Africa and Australia. Natural healing modalities often employ the plant as a tea, for its potent anti-diabetic properties. Now, initial modern research suggests that Gymnema may also be useful in preventing and treating obesity.

The plant's active compound - a group of "gymnemic acids" - work to help curb diabetes by blocking sugar from accumulating in the body. Similarly, they help fight obesity by delaying glucose absorption, and blocking the binding of carbohydrates in the intestine. Essentially, this means that gymnemic acids may be helpful in warding off so-called "empty calories."  Additionally, gymnemic acids prevent the activation of sugar molecules by the tongue, curbing sugar cravings. Finally, they prevent the absorption of sugar molecules by the intestine, which can help to lower blood sugar levels.

Research has shown that Gymnema leaf extract can impact diabetes by stimulating the pancreas to increase the release of insulin. More study is needed, but current hypotheses suggest that Gymnema may prove useful in both adult onset and juvenile diabetes mellitus. Gymnema leaves have also been noted for lowering serum cholesterol and triglycerides. When considering Gymnema treatments for any ailment, it is important to consult Dr. Bossio.

Resources

Photo credit. "Gymnema sylvestre" by Vinayaraj - Own work. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Gymnema sylvestre: A Memoir. National Center for Biotechnology Information. J Clin Biochem Nutr. Sep 2007; 41(2): 77-81. Published online Aug 29, 2007. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.2007010.

Image Attribution: Vinayaraj/wikimedia.com

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

According to Greek myth, fennel was associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of food and wine. Interestingly, the ancient Greeks reverred the fennel stalk as a vehicle for passing knowledge from the gods to men at Olympus.

Closely related to parsley, carrots, dill and coriander, and often associated with Italian and French cooking, fennel is a crunchy and slightly sweet herb that is in season and readily available from autumn through early spring.

Fennel is packed with phytonutrients that provide strong antioxidant activity. Anethole, a phytonutrient compound found in fennel, has been proven in animal studies to reduce inflammation and even help prevent cancer. In addition, fennel bulb is an excellent source of vitamin C, which contributes to a healthy immune system and can help protect against pain and joint deterioration from conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Fennel bulb is also a good source of fiber and potassium, and may help reduce bad cholesterol and protect from stroke and heart attack.

When shopping for fennel, look for whitish or pale green bulbs that are clean, firm and solid, without signs of splitting, bruising or spotting, with relatively straight and closely superimposed stalks. Both the stalks and the leaves should be green in color. Pass on fennel with signs of flowering buds as this indicates that the fennel is past maturity. Fresh fennel should be used as soon as possible, but can be stored in the refrigerator crisper for about four days. Some creative ways of using fennel, the stalks in particular, is to add them to soups, stocks and stews. The leaves can be used as an herb seasoning.

Resources

Photo credit. "Fennel flower heads" by user:Fir0002 - Own work. Licensed under GNU Free Documentation License 1.2 via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fennel_flower_heads.jpg#mediaviewe/File:Fennel_flower_heads.jpg

Fennel. The World's Healthiest Foods.
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=23

Pitchford, Paul. 1996. Healing with whole foods: oriental traditions and modern nutrition. Berkeley, Calif: North Atlantic Books.

Image Attribution: Fir0002/wikipedia.org

Cleavers (Gallium aparine)

Native to Europe but naturalized to the U.S., cleavers has historically been used to treat nodular growths on and under the skin, and even as a treatment for epilepsy. These burr-like plants are excellent as part of a tonic, primarily for detoxification and the lymphatic system because they help stimulate movement of lymph into the bloodstream. Cleavers is an effective treatment for chronic toxicity-related inflammatory conditions including acne, eczema, rheumatoid arthritis and acute inflammation of the lymph nodes. Plus it stimulates the kidneys, improving toxicity drainage, mildly stimulates the liver and when paired with other immune stimulating herbs, helps treat infectious conditions. Cleavers is also beneficial for the health of the blood vessels and can be used to treat bruises, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. This herb is in the same family as coffee but contains less caffeine. Often, the fruits are dried and roasted to be used as a coffee substitute. In addition, you can eat the leaves and stems of the plant as a leaf vegetable if gathered before the fruits appear. Because of the little hooks that are on the plant, it is recommended that you steam or otherwise cook the plant before consuming. Despite the fact that cleavers is generally regarded as safe, you should check with Dr. Bossio if you are interested in using this herb.

Resources

Photo credit. "20140618Galium aparine" by AnRo0002 - Own work. Licensed under Creative Commons Zero, Public Domain Dedication via Wikimedia Commons. 
http://commons.wikimedia.org./wiki/File:20140618Galium_aparine.jpg#mediaviewer/File:20140618Galium_aparine.jpg.

Galium aparine. NDHealthFacts.org.
http://www.ndhealthfacts.org/wiki/Galium_aparine.

Cleavers (Galium aparine). Natural Standard.
http://www.livingnaturally.com/ns/DisplayMonograph.asp?StoreID=75BCC25AD99042AC827A9E89ED3918A8&DocID=bottomline-cleavers.

Mills, S., & Bone, K. (2000). Principles and practice of phytotherapy: Modern herbal medicine. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.

Tour of the Mints (Metha spp.)

A historic plant with origins dating back to ancient Greek mythology, and medicinal applications dating back to medieval monks, mint comes in hundreds of varieties. Some mint varieties, including peppermint, spearmint and chocolate mint, among others, are most often used for culinary purposes. Others, such as field mint, are more often valued for their therapeutic and medicinal qualities and used to treat ailments including headache, indigestion, heartburn, insomnia and gas. Still, some mint varieties are best used simply for their aroma or appearance. Corsican mint is one of the best known mint varieties and is most often used to make mint jelly to accompany a meal of lamb chops, but it also has medicinal properties.

Corsican mint has calming, anti-spasmodic effects that helps reduce anxiety, stress and headaches. It can also be used as an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Its aroma, like that of most mints, will help calm the mind and relax the senses. Additionally, this mint has the ability to stimulate appetite and reduce gas. Topically, essential oil of Corsican mint can even help relieve pain and ease tension in muscles. Peppermint, another commonly used mint variety, has been found to help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, asthma and nasal symptoms of colds related to allergies, and even to limit some bacterial and fungal growth. Nutritionally, peppermint is also a good source of manganese, copper and vitamin C. 

There are many ways to enjoy mint. Try a cup of fresh mint tea, add some to a fruit salad, or add chopped mint leaves to soups that feature tomatoes. Fresh mints carry a superior flavor to dried mint and are better suited for culinary purposes. To store fresh mint leaves, carefully wrap them in a damp paper towel and place the pack inside a loosely closed plastic bag. If refrigerated this way, the leaves should keep for several days. Mints are fast-growing, aromatic herbs, which grow well in container gardens with moist, well-draining soil, set in full to partial sun. Many will also grow well indoors, making it possible to utilize mint year-round. For more tips on how to grow mint in your garden, check out GardeningKnowHow.com.

Resources

Photo credit. FreeDigitalPhotos.net. http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/Vegetables_g63-Mint_Leaves_p145548.html

Mint Plant Varieties: Types of Mint for the Garden. Gardening Know How. http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/mint/mint-plant-varieties.htm

Herb Fact Sheet: Mint. The Herb Society. http://www.herbsociety.org.uk/schools/factsheets/mint.htm

Peppermint. The World's Healthiest Foods. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=102

Image Attribution:  foto76/freedigitalphotos.net

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

A fragrant and practical herb, lemon verbena has a long history of use around the world, but today it is largely undervalued in America. It originated in Argentina and Chile and was introduced to the rest of the world in the late 1700s. Historically and globally, lemon verbena has been used in a variety of ways. In France it is known for its herbal properties and is often used in teas, culinary and liquor flavoring, and even in the production of perfumes and soaps. In Morocco, it is believed that a tea made by steeping the leaves in hot water can help relieve menstrual cramps and stomach aches. As an herbal remedy, Lemon Verbena also serves to ease tension, anxiety and stress, to reduce fever, and to ease colds, asthma, colic, dyspepsia, indigestion, flatulence and diarrhea. Additionally, while there is little scientific research, there is oral history that indicates this herb may have EMF protecting properties. 

Lemon verbena should be used in moderation, as prolonged internal use or large doses of Lemon Verbena may cause gastric irritation. In general, Lemon Verbena boasts a host of creative uses. Use the leaves and flowers in culinary creations including teas, desserts, fruit salads and jams. Add a sprig of Lemon Verbena to your vacuum cleaner bag, to help freshen the air as you clean. Plant Lemon Verbena in your garden, yard or in strategically placed pots, or hang bunches of it around your patio to take advantage of its strong citrus scent, which acts as a natural insect repellant. Tuck a few leaves behind books, or place on shelves, to keep fish-moths away. Consider it for homemade perfumes, cosmetics and potpourris. And when you really need to relax, run hot water over a bunch of fresh Lemon Verbena sprigs to make a scented bath that will help soothe tired muscles and clear nasal passages.

REFERENCES

Live Naturally with Herbs: Lemon Verbena. Natural News.
http://www.naturalnews.com/026543_tea_oil_herb.html

Aloysia citriodora. Missouri Botanical Garden.
http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c962

Lemon Verbena: From Sorbet to Soap. New York Times.
http://www.nytimes.com/1997/07/09/garden/lemon-verbena-from-sorbet-to-soap.html. 

Image Attribution: Llez/wikimedia.org

Basil

With more than 60 varieties of basil, this one herb can take you on a culinary adventure that will benefit your health, while it entertains your taste buds. This highly fragrant plant has traditionally been used in cuisines around the globe from Italian to Thai, Vietnamese and Laotian. Packed with vitamins A, C and K, manganese, copper, calcium, iron, folate and omega-3 fatty acids, it is no wonder that basil carries with it a tradition of reverence, from being a symbol of hospitality in India to one of love in Italy. Research has shown that basil provides protection at the cellular level and has anti-bacterial properties. In fact, studies have shown that the essential oil obtained from basil leaves can protect against several species of antibiotic resistant bacteria strains. Washing your produce in a 1% basil concentration can nearly eliminate Shigella, a diarrhea inducing bacteria that can cause significant intestinal damage. Overall, basil helps protect against heart attack, stroke, asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and promotes cardiovascular health.

Whenever possible, choose fresh basil over the dried variety, as fresh basil provides the best flavor. Fresh basil leaves should be a vibrant, deep green color without spots or yellowing. Store fresh basil in the refrigerator wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel, or preserve it for use in fall and winter soups by freezing. When cooking with basil, remember the adage "save the best for last" and add the herb near the end of the cooking process. Basil's oils are volatile and should not be cooked for long. An easy way to incorporate more basil into your diet is to pair it with uncooked foods, like salads. Incorporating fresh basil in a vinaigrette will ensure that your uncooked greens are safe to eat. You may also want to try adding fresh chopped basil with garlic and olive oil to yield a pesto fit for a variety of dishes including pasta and fish. Or if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, add basil to a healthy mix of eggplant, cabbage, chili peppers, tofu and cashew nuts to create a health benefiting Thai dish.

REFERENCES

Photo Credit. FreeImages.com http://www.freeimages.com/photo/511277.

Basil. Worlds Healthiest Foods. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=85.

Marz, Russell B. 1999. Medical nutrition from Marz: (a textbook in clinical nutrition). Portland, Or: Omni-Press.

Gaby, Alan. 2011. Nutritional medicine. Concord, N.H: Fritz Perlberg Publishing. 

Image Attribution: kragmel/freeimages.com

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus)

A perennial shrub found throughout Europe and in parts of Asia and North America, the butterbur plant has broad leaves and lilac-pink flowers. The name comes from the traditional use of its large leaves to wrap butter during warm months. Traditionally, butterbur has been used to treat pain, headache, anxiety, cough, fever, and gastrointestinal and urinary tract conditions. It has been used topically to help wounds heal, and modern studies suggest it may also be beneficial in treating the symptoms of seasonal allergies and asthma. It is recommended to avoid raw, unprocessed butterbur due to its potential for causing liver problems with long-term use. As with any herb, butterbur may interact with other herbs, supplements or medications, and it may also cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and daisies. Be sure to discuss butterbur with Dr. Deb Bossio prior to use, to decide if Butterbur may be right for you.
 

RESOURCES

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus). Natural Standard Professional Monograph. 2013.

Herbs at a Glance. Butterbur. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/butterbur

Image Attribution: freebigpictures.com

Burdock (Arctium lappa)

A member of the daisy family native to Europe and Northern Asia, burdock remains a largely unstudied herb among the scientific community, despite having been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Today, burdock grows as a weed in the U.S. and is cultivated and consumed as a vegetable in Japan and parts of Europe. Burdock has traditionally been used as a blood purifier, a diuretic, and as a topical remedy for skin problems such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. Additionally, burdock may be useful in treating chronic diseases such as cancers, diabetes and AIDS. Burdock also may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and may be used to improve digestion. Recent studies have shown that burdock has prebiotic properties, and as a root vegetable, burdock is an excellent antioxidant. Burdock supplements are sold as dried root powder, decoctions (liquid made by boiling down the herb in water), tinctures (a solution of the herb in alcohol, or water and alcohol), or fluid extracts. And extracts of burdock root are found in a variety of herbal preparations, as well as homeopathic remedies. As with any herb, burdock may interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. Discuss this herb with Dr. Bossio prior to use, to decide if burdock may be right for you.

References

• Burdock. University of Maryland Medical Center.
  http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/burdock.
• Mills, Simon, and Kerry Bone. 2000. Principles and practice of phytotherapy: modern herbal medicine. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.
• Pizzorno, Joseph E., and Michael T. Murray. 1999. Textbook of natural medicine. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.