Herbs
O-Z

Oat Fiber- reduces levels of bad cholesterol, source of B vitamins, good for gas and upset stomach. As a topical product good for dry skin, hemorrhoids. Increase your amount of daily oat bran gradually or you may suffer cramps and gas bloating.

Onion- relieves common cold symptoms, good expectorant, high in Allium onions may help reduce the chance of stomach Cancer. Helps prevent heart disease, relieves gas. Good antiseptic and anti-fungal.

Parsley- there's a reason this little sprig of greenery is on the side of the plate and its not to make the meal look attractive. Parsley is a great breath freshener. It also settles upset stomachs, relieving the "too full" feeling. Relieves gas and is a natural Diuretic. When rubbed on the scalp as a tonic it promotes hair growth. Also great as an expectorant for colds and asthma.Caution- do not use if pregnant

Passion Flower- natures tranquilizer, helps reduce stress and tension. Aids people suffering from insomnia. Relieves headaches caused by stress and tension. Can also reduce muscle spasms. Caution- can cause sleepiness in some people. Do not take if pregnant

Peppermint- great anti-spasmodic..reduces stomach cramps and pain. Refreshes the breath by working in the stomach. Can reduce the sick feeling that comes with migraines. Can reduce colic in infants. Helps insomnia.

Psyllium- excellent laxative that can reduce the irritation if hemorrhoids. Raises the levels of good cholesterol. Helps gastrointestinal irritations. May prevent heart disease. Used to treat ulcers and colitis. Caution- some people experience an allergic reaction

Raspberry Leaves- relieves sore throats and fever blisters. Reduces menstrual cramps. And helps alleviate dysentery.

St John's Wort- WARNING- this is a very potent herb and should be used under the care of a trained Homeopath. A natural antidepressant and tranquilizer. Good muscle relaxant and expectorant. In ointment form is a great pain reliever and antiseptic. Recent studies show that it inhibits the growth of HIV and AIDS related viruses. This herb will cause a sensitivity to light.

Sarsaparilla- used as a diuretic it increases urination and sweating. Relieves soreness and swelling associated with rheumatism and arthritis. As a tea will help break a fever. May enhance physical body mass.

Saw Palmetto- clears chest colds, may reduce the increased urination associated with benign enlarged prostrate.

Shiitake Mushrooms- used to fight cancer in Japan and China for centuries. This fungus contains a polysaccharide that is shown to reduce the growth of cancerous cells and helps rebuild the bodies immune system. Also lowers bad cholesterol.

Turmeric- increases the production of bile thus aiding in the breakdown of fats. Relieves arthritis, jaundice, menstrual problems, liver problems. Helps reduce possibility of blood clots and prevent gallbladder disease.

Valerian- This is the natural version of Valium. Calming, reduces stress, relieves insomnia. Reduces muscle tension and gas pains. Caution- in very high dosages This herb can cause weakening of the heartbeat and paralysis.

Willow Bark- guess where aspirin came from. Breaks fevers, reduces inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Good for neuralgia. Relieves headaches. Unlike aspirin Willow bark does not upset the stomach it actually aids in digestion.

Witch Hazel- very soothing to bruises, scrapes, cuts. Reduces hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Splashed on the face its a great tonic to remove excess oils. A natural anti-inflammatory its great for muscle strains.

Yucca- reduces inflammation and joint pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism.