INGREDIENTS

ALFALFA
Medicago Sativa

Active Compounds:
 Up to 50% protein, has good quantity of beta carotene, chlorophyll and octacosanol. Other ingredients are: saponins, sterols, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, acids, vitamins (A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, E, K, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folic acid), amino acids, sugars, minerals (Ca, K, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu), trace elements and other nutrients.

History:
Chinese used it stimulate appetite and treat digestive problems, particularly ulcers Ancient Indian Ayurvedic physicians used Alfalfa to treat ulcers, arthritis pains and fluid retention Early Americans used alfalfa to treat arthritis, boils, cancer, scurvy, and urinary and bowel problems. Pioneer women used it to aid menstruation

Properties:
tonic, diuretic, galactogen, antipyretic, alterative, hemostatic

useful for:
Cholesterol lowering, reduces blood clotting, atherosclerosis, ease menopause, help control diabetes, reduce swelling and inflammation associated with rheumatism; relieve digestive tract disorders, including indigestion, heartburn, and to boost a sluggish appetite; treats urinary tract infections and kidney, bladder, and prostate disorders; May help relieve constipation, relieving fluid retention and swelling, auto-immune disorder; Nourishing to the digestive, skeletal, glandular and urinary system; Cleansing the blood, liver and bowel; Preventing strokes, healing whooping cough, hair loss, peptic ulcers, bowel regulator, atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and endometriosis, drug detox, healthy teeth

Description:
Alfalfa is a perennial herb found on the edges of fields. It is widely cultivated by farmers for livestock feed. It grows to a height of a foot or more. The erect, smooth stem grows from an elongated taproot. The flowers are blue to purple during the summer months. It produces a characteristic spirally coiled seed pods. Some Herbalists believe that alfalfa is the "Big Daddy of 'em all" in terms of nutritional value. The plant is so rich in Calcium that the ashes of its leaves are almost 99% pure Calcium.

ARNICA FLOWERS
Arnica montana L.

Active Compounds:
helenalin, 11,13-dihydrohelenalin, isoquercitrin, luteolin-7-glucoside, astragalin, volatile oil (with thymol and its derivatives), phenol carbonic acid (chlorogenic acid, cynarin, caffeic acid), and coumarins (umbelliferone, scopoletin)

History:
Arnica Montana is a herb which has been used from the oldest of times to cure wounds. Starting in the 16th century this herb has been used In North America, Germany and Russia due to its anti-inflammatory and calming effects.

Properties:
antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, decongestive and antifungal properties

Useful for:
wounds, burns, sprains, bruises, aches, sore muscles, dislocations, bacterial infections, skin cancer, bronchitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, flu, lung virosis, cystitis, nephritis, kidney infections, coronary insufficiencies, cerebral trauma, headaches, paresis, semiparesis, insomnia, hypertension, heart palpitations, nightmares, night terrors, moral depressions, neurosis, hysteria etc.

Description:
Arnica is a graceful woodland plant in the same family as the sunflower that grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.. A perennial native to Central Europe and the western United States. Its yellow flowers appear from June to August and are collected at summer's end and dried for medicinal use.


BURDOCK
Arctium lappa

Active Compounds:
arcigen, calcium, chlorogenic acid, essential oil, flavonoids, inulin, lactone, mucilage, polyacetylenes, potassium, resin, tannin, and taraxosterol, vitamin C and iron. It contains 12% protein, 70% carbohydrate, some vitamin A, B1, B6, B12, E, arctin, biotin, inulin, manganese, volatile oils, tannins, PABA, and small amounts of sulfur, selenium, silicon, copper, iodine and zinc.

History:
In traditional herbal texts, burdock root is described as a blood purifier or alterative. Burdock root was believed to clear the bloodstream of toxins. It was used both internally and externally for eczema and psoriasis as well as to treat painful joints and as a diuretic. In traditional Chinese medicine, burdock root in combination with other herbs is used to treat sore throats, tonsillitis, colds, and even measles. It is eaten as a vegetable in Japan and elsewhere. Burdock root has recently become popular as part of a tea to treat cancer.

Properties:

diuretic, antibiotic, Alterative, Antihistamine, Demulcent, Diaphoretic, antipyretic, antifungal

Useful for:
measles, arthritis, tonsillitis, viruses like colds, throat pain, purify the blood by removing toxins that can build up in blood, topically as a remedy for skin disorders, soothe aching joints, cancer, easing pain from arthritis, and treating gout, rheumatism, ulcers, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. seeds contain diaphoretics are integral to treating influenza, gallbladder or liver disorders, and to aid the kidneys which purify the blood, gentle laxative, aid in digestion, ability to control inflammation and eliminate unwanted pathogens, such as those that cause diarrhea, improve symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance, helps rid calcification deposits

Description:
Burdock is native to Asia and Europe. The root is the primary source of most herbal preparations. The root becomes very soft with chewing and tastes sweet, with a mucilaginous texture. Burdock is a biennial plant found along fences, walls, and roadsides, in waste places, and around populated areas. The root is long, fleshy, gray-brown outside, and whitish inside. In its second year, the plant grows a furrowed, reddish, pithy stem with woolly branches. During the first year burdock has only basal leaves. Both basal and stem leaves are oblong-cordate to cordate, green and hairy on top and downy gray beneath. The purple flowers appear in loose corymbose clusters from July to September.

CHAMOMILE
Matricaria recutita

Active Compounds:
The flowers of chamomile provide 1-2% volatile oils containing alpha-bisabolol, alpha-bisabolol oxides A & B, and matricin (usually converted to chamazulene). azulene, farnesine, pinene, anthermal, spiroether, angelic acid, flavones, glycosides, valerianic acids, tannins, salicylic acid and coumarin derivatives vitamins B1 and C, mineral substances (phosphorus, potassium, silicon, iron, manganese, calcium, copper, lead, zinc, zirconium), glucides, and lipids.

History:

Chamomile has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant, mostly for gastrointestinal complaints. This practice continues today.
Chamomile was supposedly dedicated to the sun by the Egyptians because of its curative value in the treatment of ague. It is used in various parts of the world as a table tea. It was used to regulate monthly periods. It is splendid for kidneys, spleen, colds, bronchitis, bladder troubles, to expel worms, for argue, dropsy, and jaundice. The tea was believed to make an excellent wash for sore and weak eyes and also for other open sores and wounds.
Chamomile was used as a poultice for pains and swellings. Used for hysteria and nervous diseases, prevention of gangrene, for breaking up typhoid and in combination with bittersweet for bruises, sprains, calluses and corns.

Properties:
antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-anxiety, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, Anti-bilious, Anti-emetic, Anti-pruritic, Carminative

Useful for:
relaxing for sleep, soothes stomach, ointment for hemmorroids, relieve menstrual cramps, boosts immune function, heals wounds, prevent the progression of diabetic complications and hyperglycemia, anxiety, psoriasis, eczema, chickenpox, and diaper rash, relieve excessive gas and bloating in the intestines, stomach flu, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, wounds and inflammation, conjunctivitis and eye inflammations

Description:
Chamomile, a member of the daisy family, is native to Europe and western Asia. German chamomile is the most commonly used. It grows freely everywhere. Roman chamomile is a low European perennial found in dry fields and around gardens and cultivated grounds. The stem is procumbent, the leaves alternate, bipinnate, finely dissected, and downy to glabrous. The solitary, terminal flower heads, rising 8 to 12 inches above the ground, consist of prominent yellow disk flowers and silver-white ray flowers. It flowers in June and July. German Chamomile is a Southern European annual plant found wild along roadsides, in fields, and cultivated in gardens. The round, downy, hollow, furrowed stem may be procumbent or rise upright to a height of 16 inches. The leaves are pale green, bipinnate, sharply incised, and sessile. The flower heads are like those of Roman Chamomile, and the white ray flowers are often bent down to make the disk-flowers even more prominent.


CALENDULA
Calendula officinalis

Active Compounds:
Calendulin, beta-carotene and Triterpene, carotenoids, isoquercitrin, narcissin, rutin, amyrin, lupeol, sterols, and volatile oils. The flowers also contain complex polysaccharides with immunostimulant properties.

History:
Calendula flowers were believed to be useful in reducing inflammation, wound healing, and as an antiseptic. Calendula was used to treat various skin diseases, ranging from skin ulcerations to eczema. Internally, the soothing effects of calendula have been used for stomach ulcers and inflammation. A sterile tea has also been applied in cases of conjunctivitis. Historically, calendula is found to be antispasmodic, aperient, cholagogue, diaphoretic, vulnerary. An infusion of the flowers can be used for such gastrointestinal problems as ulcers, stomach cramps, colitis, and diarrhea. It is also useful taken internally for fever, boils, abscesses, and to prevent recurrent vomiting. The fresh juice of the herb or flowers can substitute for the infusion. For external use, a good salve for wounds can be made from dried flowers or leaves, from the juice pressed out of the fresh flowers, or from the tincture. The salve or dilute tincture is good for bruises, sprains, pulled muscles, sores, and boils. The tincture is used internally for gastritis and for menstrual difficulties.

Properties:
antibacterial, immunostimulant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory

Useful for:
disinfect minor wounds and to treat infections of the skin, stimulates the production of collagen at wound sites and minimizes scarring, Gargling calendula water may ease sore throat. lumps, bumps or scabs that won’t heal, eczema, athlete’s foot, acne, or even herpes sores, chapped lips, bedsores and shingles, eyewash for conjunctivitis, calendula is believed to enhance bile production, assist digestion and minimize flatulence, nausea, headache, fever and menstrual cramps. reduce inflammation on injuries, soothe stomach ulcers, effective in fighting fever, boils, abscesses, and recurrent vomiting, sunburn, earache pain, cleanser for the liver, gallbladder, and other organs, stop itching caused by chicken pox, bug bites and more

Description:
Calendula grows as a common garden plant throughout North America and Europe. The golden-orange or yellow flowers of calendula have been used as medicine for centuries. Calendula is an annual garden plant with an anular, branched, hairy stem 1 to 2 feet high. The leaves are alternate, sessile, spatulate or oblanceolate, dentate with widely spaced teeth, and hairy. From June to October, the plant bears large, yellow or orange, terminal flower heads.

COCONUT OIL
Cocos nucifera

Active Compounds:
Caprylic- 11.57%, Capric- 6.66%, Oleic- 4.39%, Lauric- 48.78%, Linoleic- 0.95%, Myristic- 18.98%, Stearic- 1.75%, Vitamin-E, K and iron

Properties:
antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial

Useful for:
damaged hair, dandruff, hair loss; delays wrinkles, sagging of skin, soriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections, bruises; stress relief, maintaining cholesterol levels, weight loss, proper digestion, metabolism; relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes; increased immunity, HIV and cancer; dental care, and bone strength; kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, SARS, etc; kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, etc; effective on fungi and yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, etc.

COMFREY
Symphytum officinale

Active Compounds:
tannin, rosmarinic acid, allantoin, steroidal saponins, mucilage, inulin, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, Gum, Carotene, Glycosides, Sugars, Beta-sitosterol, Triterpenoids, Vitamin B-12, Protein, Zinc

History:
Symphytum officinale derives its name from the Greek word symphyto meaning to unite, likely because of comfrey’s reputation for “knitting bones” together. The common name “comfrey” is believed to be a corruption of the Latin word confervere meaning “to heal.” It is not known how long comfrey has been in use; however its recorded use dates as far back as the 1st century A.D. The Greek physician Dioscorides began prescribing comfrey tea internally for respiratory and gastrointestinal problems. The early Greeks used comfrey root externally to treat wounds believing that it helped torn flesh to grow together. The Roman naturalist Pliny “verified” this practice with his observation of boiling comfrey in water produces a sticky paste that is capable of binding chunks of meat together. The paste hardens like plaster. That may be why on ancient battlefields they would often soak a cloth in this tea and wrap it around broken bones. When the cloth dried it became an effective cast.

Properties:
Demulcent, cell proliferant, pectoral, astringent, vulnerary, styptic, nutritive, tonic, expectorant, alterative

Useful for:
promote healing of broken bones, sprains and bruises, reduce swelling and edema, and encourage the rapid and healthy regrowth of skin and tissue cells, stop bleeding, prevent infection, relieve pain; ulcerated and inflamed lung conditions, bronchitis, hemorrhage, asthma; tuberculosis, pleurisy, pneumonia, inflamed stomach or bowels, ulcerated kidneys, soothes gravel in bloody urine, diarrhea, dysentery, bruises, sprains, swellings, fractures cancers, torn ligaments, ruptures, broken bones, cuts, gout, gangrene, heart problems, ulcerous wounds, hemoptysis, catarrh, scrofula, anemia, leukorrhea, female debility, boils, gum boils, sinusitis, burns, and insect bites

DANDELION
Taraxacum officinale

Active Compounds:
vitamins A, C, D, and B complex as well as iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon, taraxacins (eudesmanolides), sitosterol, stigmasterol, alpha- and beta-carotene, caffeic acid, mucilage, Linoleic and Linolenic Acid, Gallic Acid, Several Triterpenest

History:
Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer. Dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis.

Properties:
anti-diarrheal and anti-bacterial, tonic, diuretic, Alterative, Antacid, Anti-bilious, Anti-lithic

Useful for:
liver and gallbladder problems, prevent or cure liver diseases, such as hepatitis or jaundice; act as a tonic and gentle diuretic to purify your blood, cleanse your system, dissolve kidney stones, and otherwise improve gastro-intestinal health; assist in weight reduction; cleanse skin and eliminate acne; improve bowel function, working equally well to relieve both constipation and diarrhea; prevent or lower high blood pressure; prevent or cure anemia; lower serum cholesterol by as much as half; eliminate or drastically reduce acid indigestion and gas buildup by cutting the heaviness of fatty foods; prevent or cure various forms of cancer; prevent or control diabetes mellitus, Fiber fights diabetes, lowers cholesterol, reduces cancer and heart disease risks, and assists in weight loss.

Description:
Closely related to chicory, dandelion is a common perennial plant worldwide. The plant grows to a height of about 12 inches. The oblong or spatulate, irregularly dentate or pinnatified leaves grow in a rosette from the milky taproot, which also sends up one or more naked flower stems, each terminating in a single yellow flower. The familiar puffball that succeeds the flower is a globular cluster of achenes, each of which is fitted with a parachute-like tuft. Dandelion is grown commercially in the United States and Europe. The leaves and root are used in herbal supplements.

ECHINACEA
Echinacea purpurea

Active Compounds:
copper, iron, iodine, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and E, lavonoids, oils, polysaccharides, phenols (cichoric, caffeic, and caftaric acids and echinacoside), and alkylamides

History:
Echinacea was used by American Indians for a variety of conditions, including venomous bites and other external wounds. It was introduced into US. medical practice in 1887 and was touted for use in conditions ranging from colds to syphilis. Modern research started in the 1930s in Germany.Traditionally echinacea has been used for blood poisoning, fevers, carbuncles, acne, eczema, boils, peritonitis, syphilis conditions, bites and stings of poisonous insects or snakes, erysipelas, gangrenous conditions, diphtheria, tonsillitis, sores, infections and wounds.
Properties:
antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal, Alterative, Antihistamine, Anti-scrofulous, Sialagogue, Antiseptic, depurative, maturating, febrifuge

Useful for:
colds, flu, and other infections, cuts, burns, and insect bites, scarlet fever, syphilis, malaria, blood poisoning, and diphtheria, upper respiratory problems, bronchitis, sore throat, enlarged prostate glands, urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast (candida) infections, ear infections (otitits), sinusitis, hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Topically it can help heal eczema, psoriasis, and slow-healing wounds, skin protector from the sun damage, strengthen immune system by promoting white blood cell production, genital herpes, tonsillitis, strep throat,typhoid, malaria, gum disease,  chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, indigestion and heartburn, cancer, hemorrhoids.

Description:
Echinacea is a wildflower native to North America. While echinacea continues to grow and is harvested from the wild, the majority of that used for herbal supplements is from cultivated plants. The root or aboveground part of the plant during the flowering growth phase is used medicinally. The stout, bristly stem bears hairy, linear-lanceolate leaves, tapering at both ends, the lower on long petioles, the upper sessile. The distinctive flower features 12 to 20 large, spreading, dull-purple rays and a conical disk made up of numerous purple, tubular florets. Flowering time is June to October.

FENUGREEK
Trigonella foenum-graecum

Active Compounds:
aluminum, calcium, carbohydrates, vitamin C, zinc, dietary fiber, magnesium protein, phosphorous, potassium, and sodium, trigonelline, lysine and l-tryptophan and they also contain a large about of steroidal saponins and fibers. Arginine, beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol, coumarin, diosgenin, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), kaempferol, luteolin, magnesium, manganese, niacin, potassium, pyridoxine, quercetin, riboflavin, rutin, sulfur, thiamine, trigonelline, tryptophan, vitexin.

History:
A wide range of uses were found for fenugreek in ancient times. Medicinally it was used for the treatment of wounds, abscesses, arthritis, bronchitis, and digestive problems. Traditional Chinese herbalists used it for kidney problems and conditions affecting the male reproductive tract. Fenugreek was, and re-mains, a food and a spice commonly eaten in many parts of the world.

Properties:
mucilage, antioxidant, Anti-scrofulous, Demulcent, emollient

Useful for:
libido and lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood fluctuations, arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, improve digestion, maintain a healthy metabolism, increase libido and male potency, cure skin problems (wounds, rashes and boils), treat sore throat, and cure acid reflux. reproductive disorders, to induce labor, to treat hormonal disorders, to help with breast enlargement, and to reduce menstrual pain, lower blood glucose and cholestrol levels, and may be an effective treatment for both type 1 and 2 diabetes, abscesses, boils, burns, eczema, and gout, helps sooth gastrointestinal inflammation, heartburn or Acid Reflux, help reduce fever, Aid Milk Production in Lactating Women, fever, cold, ulcer, bronchitis, arthritis, build muscles

Description:
Although originally from southeastern Europe and western Asia, fenugreek grows today in many parts of the world, including India, northern Africa, and the United States. The seeds of fenugreek contain the most potent medicinal effects of the plant.

GOTU KOLA
Centella asiatica

Active Compounds:
 vitamin c, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), saponin, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, sodium, manganese and zinc. amino acids i.e. asparate, glutamate, serine, threonine, alanine, lysine and histidine, he two saponins present in this plant are brahmoside and brahminoside. triterpenoids comprises asiaticoside, madecassoside and madasiatic acid. It also has two triterpene acids i.e. brahmic acid and isobrahmic acid; betulic acid and stigmasterol.

History:
Gotu Kola has been used as a medicine in the Ayurvedic tradition of India for thousands of years. It is listed in the historic Susruta Samhita, an ancient Indian medical text. The herb is also used by the people of Java and other Indonesian islands. In China, gotu kola is one of the reported "miracle elixirs of life". This was attributed to a healer named LiChing Yun who, legends say, lived 256 years by taking a tea brewed from gotu kola and other herbs. Gotu Kola is prominently mentioned in the Shennong Herbal compiled in China over 2000 years ago. In the nineteenth century, Gotu Kola and its extracts were incorporated into the Indian pharmacopeia, wherein addition to being recommended for wound healing, it was recommended in the treatment of skin conditions such as leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema, and psoriasis. It was also used to treat diarrhea, fever, amenorrhea, and diseases of the female genitourinary tract. Gotu Kola was first accepted as a drug in France in the 1880's.

Properties:
diuretic, amphoteric, diuretic, febrifuge, nervine, rejuvenative

Useful for:
treating a lot of physical conditions like syphilis, hepatitis, stomach ulcers, mental fatigue, epilepsy, and diarrhea, snakebites, herpes, fractures, and sprains, relieve physical and mental exhaustion, eye diseases, inflammation, asthma, high blood pressure, liver disease, dysentery, urinary tract infections, eczema, and psoriasis, treating venous insufficiency (pooling of blood in the veins, usually in the legs), boosting memory and intelligence, easing anxiety, and speeding the healing of wounds and burns, alleviates itching and redness, and as such is very helpful in treating psoriasis, tone up your muscular tissues. . It improves hemoglobin percentage, RBC, serum cholesterol and blood sugar in your blood. It activates fast growth of your hair, skin and even nails

Description:
Gotu Kola is a perennial plant native to India and other tropical countries. Its appearance changes, depending on growing conditions. In shallow water, the plant puts forth floating roots and the leaves rest on top of the water. In dry locations, it puts out numerous small roots and the leaves are small and thin. Typically, the constantly growing roots gives rise to reddish stolons. The leaves can reach a width of 1 inch and a length of 6 inches. Usually 3 to 6 red flowers arise in a sessile manner or on very short pedicels in auxiliary umbels. The fruit, formed throughout the growing season, is approximately 2 inches long with 7 to 9 ribs and a curved, strongly thickened pericarp.

ILLIPE BUTTER
Shorea stenoptera

Active Compounds:
Oleic- 32-38%, Palmitic- 15-19%, Linoleic- 0-1.2%, Stearic- 42-48%

History:
Illipe nuts come from a truly magnificent tree that is native to Southeast Asia and Borneo. It flowers in October through January, when the nuts are collected after they fall to the ground, but not before. The seeds are collected from the ground and dried in the sun until they are brittle enough to be separated from the shells. The indigenous peoples of Borneo have been making a “butter” from the Illipe nuts for many centuries for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.

Properties:
emollient

Useful for:
restore elasticity to the skin, chronically dry skin, sunburn, healing sores, mouth ulcers, dry or over processed hair, long-lasting moisturizing, Reduces degeneration of skin cells

KAVA KAVA
Piper methysticum

Active Compounds:
Kava lactones, kawahin, yanoginin, methysticin, glycosides

History:
Kava is native Pacific Islands. In early times, it was distributed eastward through tropical islands by migrating people, who valued the root both as a drink and a medicine. In Hawaii, more than 15 varieties were known. In many islands of the Pacific, Kava has long played an important part in the life of the people, being used in ceremonies, festivals, and as a sign of good will. The root is used to prepare the ceremonial drink. The drink is reputed to be sedative, aphrodisiac, tonic, stimulant, diuretic, and diaphoretic. The root has a faint but characteristic odor, an aromatic, bitter, pungent taste, with a slight local anesthesia resulting.

Properties:
diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, analgesic, anticonvulsant

Useful for:
anxiety, stress and depression, ovarian cancer and leukemia treatment, rheumatism, menstrual cramps, venereal disease, tuberculosis, and leprosy, pain reliever, gout, bronchial congestions, cystitis, and prostatis, sleep aid, sleep, fatigue, asthma, urinary tract infections, anxiety, insomnia, menopausal symptoms

Description:
Kava is a member of the pepper family and is native to many Pacific Ocean islands. The rhizome (root stock) is used. It is a tall tropical shrub produces the Kava-Kava root. The plant is characterized by big leaves shaped like hearts that fill the branches. Flowers blossom on the plant where the branches join with the stems.

LAVENDER
Lavandula officinalis

Active Compounds:
Essential oil containing borneol, camphor, geraniol, and linalool, also coumarins, caryophyllene, tannins, and other antioxidant compounds

History:
Lavender goes back thousands of years, with the first recorded uses by the Egyptians during the mummification process. Both the Greeks and the Romans had many uses for it, the most popular being for bathing, cooking, as an ingredient in perfume, healing wounds, and as an insect repellant. Discorides wrote that taken internally, lavender would help with indigestion and sore throats, and externally to clean wounds and burns. Lavender was used as an after-bath perfume by the Romans, who gave the herb its name from the Latin lavare, to wash. During the Great Plague of 1665, grave robbers would wash their hands in a concoction called "Four Thieves Vinegar", which contained lavender, wormwood, rue, sage, mint, and rosemary, and vinegar; they rarely became infected. English folklore tells that a mixture of lavender, mugwort, chamomile, and rose petals will attract sprites, fairies, brownies, and elves.

Properties:
Carminative, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressant, rubefacient, emmenagogue, hypotensive, stimulant, aromatic, diuretic, antiseptic and antifungal

Useful for:
migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress, induces sleep, ore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago, throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs. lice and lice eggs or nits, improving blood circulation, lowers blood pressure and is used for hypertension. The oil also stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile and thus aids in treating indigestion, stomach pain, colic, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea. acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations, heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. repel mosquitoes and moths.

Description:
Lavender is aromatic perennial evergreen shrub. Its woody stems bear lavender or purple flowers from late spring to early autumn, although there are varieties with blossoms of white or pink. Lavender is native to the Mediterranean, but now cultivated in cool-winter, dry-summer areas in Europe and the Western United States.

LICORICE
Glycyzrrhiza glabra

Active Compounds:
Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids

History:
Licorice root is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs worldwide and is the single most used herb in Chinese medicine today. It was used by the Egyptians as a flavoring for a drink called Mai-sus, and large quantities were found in the tomb of King Tut for his trip into the afterlife. Pliny the Elder recommended it to clear the voice and alleviate thirst and hunger. Dioscides, when traveling with Alexander the Great, recommended that his troops carry and use licorice to help with stamina for long marches, as well as for thirst in areas of drought. In the Middle Ages it was taken to alleviate the negative effects of highly spicy food or overcooked food. It was also used for flavoring tobacco, and as a foaming agent in fire extinguishers and beer. In a recent survey of Western medical herbalists, licorice ranked as the 10th most important herb used in clinical practice. An astonishing number Chinese herbal formulas (over 5,000) use licorice to sweeten teas and to "harmonize" contrasting herbs. Its first documented use dates back the time of the great Chinese herbal master Zhang Zhong Zhing, about 190 AD, but it was certainly used for many centuries prior to this. In 1914 the Chicago Licorice Company began to sell Black Vines, the first in a very long line of licorice based modern candies

Properties:
anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-spasmodic, demulcent, emetic, expectorant, laxative, rejuvenative, sedative, tonic, antioxidant, anti-depressant
Useful for:
coughs, sore throats, food poisoning, and liver and stomach disorders. demulcent to soothe and coat inflamed tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive and urinary tracts. enhances immunity by boosting levels of interferon, fights the herpes simplex virus, viral hepatitis, vaginal yeast infections, ulcers of the digestive tract, support the adrenal glands, lessen symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia by enhancing cortisol activity. PMS and menopausal complaints, liver tonic, gingivitis and tooth decay, gout, heartburn, HIV, Lyme disease, prostate enlargement and arthritis

MILK THISTLE
Silybum marianum

Active Compounds:
Silymarin (silibinin, silydianin, and silychristin), vitamin E, and about 90% fatty acids

History:
Milk thistle is a member of the sunflower family native to a narrow area of the Mediterranean, but grown for centuries throughout Europe and and now a common weed in California. Milk thistle was probably brought to North America as a coffee substitute, but its shiny black seeds covered with feathery tufts have a far longer history in herbal medicine. The edible thistles were given the name silybum by Dioscorides, a Greek physician who served in the Roman Army over 1,900 years ago. The thistle with white mottling on its leaves became known as the "milk" thistle. This herb served as a therapy for conditions we would now recognize as ascites, congestive heart failure, various kidney diseases, and hepatitis. In Catholic Germany, its usefulness was said to be second only to calling on Mother Mary, and the white mottling on the leaf said to be the touch of the Virgin Mary's milk, hence the species name "marianum." In the twentieth century, German physicians and pharmacologists found that milk thistle could treat certain mushroom poisoning, fatty liver due to alcoholism, cirrhosis, and hepatitis B and C.

Properties:
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, Glutathione

Useful for:
cirrhosis, jaundice, hepatitis, gallbladder disorders, insulin resistance

MANGO BUTTER
Mangifera indica

Active Compounds:
Oleic- 42.9%, Palmitic- 6.9%, Linoleic- 3%, Stearic- 41.7%

History:
Expeller pressed and rendered from the seed kernel of the Mango tree, this highly prized butter is an exceptional quality base ingredient for body care products and soap making recipes. Mango Butter has beneficial moisturizing properties for lotions and acts as a mild lubricant for the skin.

Properties:
emollient

Useful for:
protective effect against UV radiation, dry skin, skin rash, skin peeling, after tanning, blemishes and wrinkles, itching skin, shaving cream, small skin wounds and skin cracks, frost bite, stretch marks during pregnancy, insect bites, muscle fatigue, aches and tension, skin allergies such as poison ivy or poison oak, eczema and dermatitis, rids fine lines and wrinkle

NETTLE
Urtica dioica

Active Compounds:
an important source of beta-carotene, vitamin A, C, B2, K and E, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphates, potassium, chromium and minerals contains a great number of amino acids, glucidic substances, amines, sterols, cetones as methyl heptenone, acetophenone, volatile oil, fatty substances, sitosterols, formic and acetic acid, panthotenic acid, folic acid, protoporphyrine and coproporphynine. main plant chemicals include: acetophenone, acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeic acids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, formic acid, friedelins, histamine, kaempherols, koproporphyrin, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neoolivil, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, quinic acid, scopoletin, secoisolariciresinol, serotonin, sitosterols, stigmasterol, succinic acid, terpenes, violaxanthin, and xanthophylls

History:
The stinging nettle (which is called ortie in France and Brennessel in Germany) was said to be introduced into Britain by Caesar's soldiers. They sowed it along the sides of the great straight roads; both the roads and the nettles survive. At the end of a day's march the cooler climate of England and the weary miles made their legs ache. They would gather the nettles and beat each other with them so warming the affected parts. Really an embrocate for the strong.

Properties:
astringent, expectorant, tonic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, mild laxative, galactagogue, Anti-scorbutic, hypotensive, pectoral, styptic, rubefacient

Useful for:
Hepatic, arthritic or rheumatic conditions, anemia and kidney diseases; Diseases and inflammation of the urinary system and urinary retentions, piles or haemorrhoids, reduce water retention, soothe pms; Hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome, prostatic hyperplasia, intestinal weakness, enlarged prostate, diarrhea, malnutrition, rickets, gout; Helps regenerate, grow and thicken the hair; Allergies, immune system, controlling hay fever symptoms; Repair wounds and broken bones, eczema, skin rashes, skin inflammation, stregthen nails; Astringent action which helps to draw body tissues together and control bleeding, cleanses blood.

OLIVE OIL (EXTRA VIRGIN)
Olea europaea

Active Compounds:
Oleic- 55.28%, Palmitic- 19.8%, Linoleic- 17.84%, Linolenic- 0.73%, Stearic- 2.56%, Polyphenols, oleocanthal

History:
According to author Carol Firenze in "The Passionate Olive," people have been praising olive oil's salutary effects since the days of the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. Ancient beauty rituals often called for herb-infused olive oil moisturizers, but those recipes work just as well today. To get the most bang for your buck, Firenze suggests using extra-virgin olive oil---the greener the color, the more antioxidants you're likely to get.

Properties:
antioxidants,  anti-inflammatories, humectant

Useful for:
Prevents free-radical damage and minimizes appearance of lines, wrinkles and other signs of premature skin aging, brightens skin and makes skin tone more even, sunburn, shaving oil, help dry skin regain its natural moisture balance, chapped lips, help repair frizzy, fried, chemically treated hair.

PLANTAIN LEAF
Plantago major

Active Compounds:
allantion, apigenin, aucubin, baicalein, linoleic acid, oleanolic acid, sorbitol, and tannin, beta carotene, vitamins A, C, calcium

History:
The common plantain grows throughout the US, but is of Eurasian descent, and is now naturalized throughout the world. Legend has it that Alexander the Great discovered it and brought it with him back to Europe in 327 BCE. It has been referred to as the Whiteman's Foot by Native Americans, as wherever they went, it seemed to spring up. and in some places, it is seen as a noxious, invasive weed. It is, however, a useful little plant. It has been used by many cultures the world over, and the Saxons considered it one of their nine sacred herbs. It was considered an early Christian symbol of the path followed by the devout and many cultures todayt refer to it as an aphrodisiac. The leaves are quite edible, and often used raw in salads and cooked as greens. Older leaves have a stronger, sometimes objectionable flavor, and can be tough and stringy, but can be used to make tea.

Properties:
Vulnerary, expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, astringent, diuretic, anti-microbial, antitoxic, styptic, antivenomous, anthelminitic, vermicide, antifungal

Useful for:
relieve the pain of bee stings and insect bites, ringworm, stop the itching of poison ivy and other allergic rashes, promote healing in sores and bruises, used in place of comfrey to repair damaged tissue, treat bruises and broken bones; mouthwash to help heal and prevent sores in the mouth, laryngitis, bronchitis, asthma, lung infections, hay fever, soothes irritated mucous membranes, kill worms in the stomach and the intestines; stop smoking aid; blood poisoning treatment; kidney and bladder problems, tuberculosis, syphilis; stop minor bleeding, slow the flow in excessive menstrual cycles, bloody urine; weight loss; treat infections of the vagina; gastritis, diarrhea, dysentery, irritable bowel syndrome and other intestinal problems; eye wash for red, irritated or light sensitive eyes

ROSEMARY  
Rosmarinus officinalis

Active Compounds:
1,8-cineole, acetic acid, camphor, carnosol, carvacrol, carvone, caryophyllene, chlorogenic acid, flavanoids, geraniol, hesperidin, limonene, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, salicylates

History:
In the days of old rosemary was used for annointing and blessing. It was thought to bring love and peace and to provide protection and purification. Once used as a memory aid, students used to carry a sprig of rosemary with them to examination rooms, it became the emblem of fidelity and remembrance. Brides wore it to indicate that they should always remember their roots and their relatives. Worn as a garland it signified that she carried to the new home loving memories of the old. The dead were buried with it to signify that they would not be forgotten by the living.

Properties:
Antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, Carminative, anti-depressive, rubefacient, anti-microbial, emmenagogue, stimulant, cephalic, tonic, astringent, diaphoretic, nervine, aromatic, analgesic, venotonic, cordial

Useful for:
rheumatism and circulatory problems; mouth rinses and gargles, sores, eczema, bruises, and wounds, stimulates the hair follicles to renewed activity and prevent premature baldness; clear the mind, sharpen the memory and boost the central nervous system, depression, headaches, and muscle spasms; increases the rate of perspiration, while stimulating the liver and gall bladder and helps to lower high blood sugar; dyspeptic complaints, flatulence and to stimulate appetite and the secretion of gastric juices, prevent abdominal cramps, stops growth of yeast and helps remove yeast cells from the lining of the urinary tract.

ST. JOHNS WORT
Hypericum perforatum

Active Compounds:
Hypericin, pseudohypericin, rutin, bitters, proanthocyanidin, hyperin, biflavone, amentoflavone, quercetin, tannins

History:
 Originally native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, St. John's wort is a perennial plant with bright yellow star-shaped flowers are now readily found throughout North America, growing wild in neglected fields and along roadsides. St. John's wort rose from virtual obscurity in the U.S. to become the fifth best selling dietary supplement in mainstream retail stores. Its rise to fame came after the national media reported clinical research showing that it was safe and effective for treating mild to moderate depression, and the Greek physician Hippocrates (ca. 460-377 B.C.E.) was one of the first to speak of the health benefits of St. Johns Wort, and it as been used to treat anxiety, neurosis, and depression since the time of Paracelsus (ca. 1493-1541 C.E.), when it was declared to be "arnica for the nerves." In addition to its value as a psychiatric treatment, Some of the original folklore uses of this versatile plant were in treating bedwetting, rheumatism, and gout. A St. John's wort oil made with the blossoms and olive, sunflower, or, preferably, wheat germ oil has been used for centuries for treating wounds and burns.

Properties:
sedative, anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-depressant, Antispasmodic, expectorant, nervine, vulnerary, anti-microbial

Useful for:
Anxiety, depression, bedwetting, insomnia, and other nervous conditions; inflammation of the skin, wounds, burns, sunburn; recurrent ear infection, expectorant for the congestion in the lungs; stomach ache, colic, intestinal problems; hiv, aids

SHEA BUTTER
Butyrospermum parkii

Active Compounds:
Oleic- 60.5%, Palmitic- 5.0%, Linoleic- 7.9%, Stearic- 45.24%, vitamins a, e, f

History:
Shea Butter is becoming increasingly popular in the natural bodycare and cosmetic industries for good reason. It has been used for centuries in Africa for its moisturizing and healing properties, where it has been used to protect and condition skin which has been damaged by the sun and wind.

Properties:
emollient

Useful for:
dry skin, stretch marks, itchy skin, rashes, eczema, dermatitis, sunburn small wounds, damaged skin, rough skin, muscle ache, fatigue, tension, wrinkles, aging, chapped skin, dry or over processed hair, diaper rash, skin allergies, frost bite, uv protection, dry scalp, hair growth

SKULLCAP
Scutellaria lateriflora

Active Compounds:
Volatile oil, scutellarin, bitter glycoside, tannin, fat, bitter principles, sugar, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium,

History:
Skullcap has been traditionally used by North American Indians as a nerve tonic and diuretic. It was highly valued by the Cherokee and other tribes as an emmenagogue and female medicinal herb, sometimes used as a ceremonial plant to introduce young girls into womanhood. Settlers in the late 1700's promoted the herb's effectiveness as a cure for rabies, giving rise to one of its common names, mad dog weed. This claim was later discarded, and herbalists began to focus on the plant's considerable value as a sedative.

Properties:
sedative, antispasmodic, nervine tonic, hypotensive, febrifuge, antihistamine

Useful for:
treatment of addictions, alcoholism, afterbirth removal following childbirth,; colds, lowers fevers, convulsions, epilepsy, headache (especially a dull frontal headache with sensitivity to noise, light and odors); hysteria, insomnia, nervous tension, nervous fear, stress; lower blood pressure

Sweet Almond Oil
Prunus dulcis

Active Compounds:
Oleic- 57.5%, Palmitic- 5.6%, Linoleic- 22.8%, Linolenic- 0.1%, Stearic- 2.5%, omega 6, omega nine, dietary fiber, proteins

History:
The nurturing qualities of sweet almond oil have been recognized for thousands of years. Records of its use date back 5,000 years to Ayurvedic medicine in India. With its ability to be used on nearly every skin type, massage and bodywork practitioners add other essential oils for relaxation and healing. Use it with caution, though, if you are allergic to nuts, as a severe allergic reaction could still occur

Properties:
emollient

Useful for:
Improves complexion and retains glow, soothes skin irritation and inflammation, delays ageing process, skin regeneration, lightens dark circles and puffiness with honey, helps skin retain moisture; stimulates hair growth, strengthens the hair and moisturizes the scalp

VALERIAN ROOT
Valeriana officinalis

Active Compounds:
Acetic acid, ascorbic acid, beta-ionone, calcium, caffeic acid, magnesium, manganese, quercitin, valeric acid, sesquiterpenes

History:
Contrary to popular myth, the modern drug Valium is not derived from valerian, and there is no relationship at all between them. Valerian root does, however, have a long history of use as a sedative in Western Europe, dating back to the time of Hippocrates, (ca. 460-377 B.C). Originally native to Europe and parts of Asia but now common throughout North America, in the U.S. valerian root is widely used in sleep aids and sedatives in various forms including teas, tablets, and capsules. Often, valerian is combined with other herbs traditionally known to promote sleep including hops, passionflower, lemon balm, chamomile, and lavender.

Properties:
calmative, tranquilizer, anticonvulsant, anti-arrhythmic

Useful for:
headaches, insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, nervous stomach; menstrual cramps,  hysteria, high blood pressure