Herbal Remedies – Anti Fungal Treatment

Fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies. Under certain conditions, they cause infections, particularly in warm and moist areas. The symptoms and appearances of a fungal skin infection depend on the type of fungus causing it and the part of the body affected. Fungal infections can affect not only the skin, but the fingernails and scalp.

Garlic herb is considered to be a very potent antimicrobial agent. It was used by Albert Schweitzer to treat amebic dysentery, and also by Louis Pasteur as an antibacterial agent. Garlic is one of the richest sources of the element germanium, which is a potent inducer of interferon and effective against certain cancers by modulating the immune response.

Candida yeast infection is similar to a fungus. It generally affects the skin around the nails or the soft, moist areas around body openings. Diaper rash in babies can be from one type of candidal infection. Older girls and women may develop another form of candidal infection in and around the private part , and these are called yeast infections.

Golden Seal herb is considered effective in treating most digestive problems ranging from peptic ulcers to colitis due to its tonic effects on the mucous membranes. It is a powerful antimicrobial improving all mucous conditions, especially those of the sinuses.

Tea tree oil preparations were tested in four randomized clinical trials and some constructive outcomes were attributed to the interference in all trials. It is a cure for many mucosal fungal infections. Tea tree oil and Grapefruit seed distill may be used for the foreign handling of candida-related rind conditions by putting 2-3 drops of each in a lotion or balm and spreading it over the stricken region. Solanum species (two trials) and oil of acrimonious orange preparations (one test) were compared with traditional treatments. In all cases encouraging results were reported. There are few controlled clinical trials of herbal antifungal medicines.

The most popular herbal remedy for the care of parrots seems to be aloe. One popular use of aloe is a topical spray to sooth the irritated skin of birds that engage in feather plucking. Dramatic results can be obtained with this protocol when used on parrots who are destroying their feathers due to an itchy condition of the skin. Even in cases of psychological plucking, the aloe spray has been known to slow down feather destruction, due to the fact that damp feathers seem to dampen the urge to pluck. The easiest way to obtain a quality aloe spray for parrots is to buy it from a health food store. 

Fungal infections are usually not serious in otherwise healthy individuals. However, a systemic fungal infection may be severe and life-threatening for those with compromised immune systems. Good personal hygiene should be maintained. In the case of superficial infections, the skin should be kept clean and dry, and care should be taken to avoid contact with other parts of the body. If someone in the household has a superficial fungal infection, bed sheets, towels, floors, shower stalls, and other contact surfaces should be washed with hot water and disinfected after use.

Oregano extract from this herb is considered more potent and less harmful than nystatin to eradicate fungi. It is also considered to be more powerful and less-toxic in eradicating staph infections.

Author: Corwin Brown

Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Medicines, and Important Herbs

What is Ayurveda and Its Importance?
Ayurveda is a traditional holistic healing. Translated from Sanskrit, Ayurveda means 'the science of life'. ayur means "life" and veda means "science. India system which largely depends on plant support to form major Chunk of its medicine. Most of the herbs, spices, seeds, roots, leaves, stems, petals and flowers are deeply ingrained in all Indian homes where 'home remedies' are popular. Even certain family members in some family are adept in curing even intricate disorders by simple and cost effective formulations which, at times, have shown marvelous and astounding results.
All over the world today we are looking for a natural system of healing that is comprehensive and complete, that is not merely some curious form of folk healing but a real and rational system of medicine that is sensitive to both nature and the Earth. This is exactly what Ayurveda has to offer, for it has a many thousand year-old clinical tradition and a comprehensive natural method of treatment ranging from diet, herbs and massage.
With Ayurveda we learn the right diet for our individual type, how to improve our immune system, he keys to right use of sexual energy and rejuvenation,a nd a conscious way of life that can lift us to a new level of awareness in all our endeavors.
Without such natural wisdom as Ayurveda, we may find ourselves not only unhealthy, but unhappy and spiritually confused.
Ayurveda Principles and Theory
Ayurveda system is the prominent user of herbs and its basic theory revolves round imbalance and vitiation of three humors (Doshas).
Ether (Akash), Air (Vayu), Fire (Agni), Water (Jal) and Earth (Prithvi) are the great five elements which underline all living systems. these elements are constantly changing and interacting and can be simplified into three Vitiations (Doshas). When these doshas remain under harmony and balance, health of body does not get disturbed but, when their balance gets disturbed, a diseased state sets in.
The three doshas are vata (Wind), Pitta (Bile) and Kapha (Phlegm) and due to predominance of the one dosha, a person's personality is determined that is ' Vata-Prakriti', 'Pitta- Prakriti' or 'Kapha Prakriti'
Vata formed from ether and air, governs all movement in the mind and body and must be kept in good balance.
Pitta formed from fire and water, governs "all heat, metabolism and transformation in the mind and body
Kapha formed from earth and water, cements the elements in the body, providing the material for physical structure
Each person has an individual blend of the three doshas, with one or sometimes two doshas predominating.
Common Herbs used in Ayurvedic Medicines
Amalaki (Amla or Indian Gooseberry or Emblica officinalis) - The fruit is reputed to have the highest content of vitamin C of any natural occurring substance in nature. It maintains balance amongst three doshas and effectively controls digestive problems, strengthens heart, normalises cholesterol, prevents cancer, builds up and sustain defence mechanism, improves eye-sight and detoxifies the body.
Amla is said to have 20 times more vitamin C than orange. The vitamin C content of amla is between 625mg - 1814mg per 100gms. Other studies show that amla increases red blood cell count and hemoglobin. A research tem discovered that when Amla is taken regularly as a dietary supplement, it counteracts the toxic effects of prolonged exposure to environmental heavy metals, such as lead, aluminium and nickel.
Ashwagandha (Winter Cherry or Withania Somnifera)- Ashwagandha is one of the main herbs for promoting ojas and rejuvenating the body in Ayurveda. It is a well known semen promoter and it treats impotency and infertility.
Clinical studies show that Ashwagandha has antibacterial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating properties. The strong anti-stress actions, increases memory and learning capabilities. It has also found to be useful in Rheumatic and Arthritic disorders like pain, swelling etc
Summing up, it is a strong Aphrodisiac and has Immunomodulating, anti- inflammatory, anti tumor and anti stress properties which clearly shows why Ayurveda has such a high opinion of this herb as a general tonic.
Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna) - It is a cardiac tonic of high quality. Terminalia arjuna, is known to be beneficial for the treatment of heart ailments since 500 BC. Clinical research has indicated its usefulness in relieving anginal pain, and in the treatment of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and possibly hypercholesterolemia.
"Terminalia arjuna bark extract, 500 mg 8 hourly, given to patients with stable angina with provocable ischemia on treadmill exercise, led to improvement in clinical and treadmill exercise parameters as compared to placebo therapy." Result on Clinical Research Conducted.
Improvement of cardiac muscle function and subsequent improved pumping activity of the heart seem to be the primary benefits of Terminalia Arjuna.
Brahmi (Bacopa, Gotu Kola) - Brahmi is known as "the food for brain". Traditionally Brahmi is used as a mental tonic, to rejuvenate the body, as a promoter of memory and as a nerve tonic. It promotes a calm, clear mind, and improves mental function.
Modern Research claims that brahmi improves memory and helps overcome the negative effects of stress. Brahmi is especially suitable for students as it enhances the minds ability to learn and to focus and for an elderly person hoping to regain their memory. It is unique in its ability to invigorate mental processes whilst reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety.
As a nervine tonic, Brahmi has been used to help those affected by stroke, nervous breakdown or exhaustion and Attention Deficit Disorder. The best Ayurvedic brain and memory formulas contain brahmi, as do many of the long life promoting compounds.
Guggulu (Shuddha Guggulu, Guggul, Commiphora Mukul) - Modern Research shows that it is the prime Ayurvedic herb for treating obesity and high cholesterol. Studies shows that guggulu lowers serum cholesterol and phospholipids, and that it also protects against cholesterol- induced atherosclerosis. Guggulu were seen to lower body weight in these clinical studies.
Guggulu also as anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in treating arthritis and other joint pains.
Karela (Bitter Melon, Bitter Gourd, Momordica Charantia) - At least three different groups of constituents have been reported to have blood sugar lowering actions in bitter Mellon. These include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. Scientific studies have consistently shown that bitter melon lowers blood sugar level of Type 2 Diabetes.
It could probably reduce the patients intake of antidiabetic drugs. Also Bitter Melon has two proteins which are thought to repress the AIDS virus.
Recently, the Department of Health in the Philippines has recommended bitter melon as one of the best herbal medicines for diabetic management.
Neem (Azadirachta Indica) - Neem is an extraordinary blood purifier, good for al skin diseases like acne, eczema, psoriasis and teeth and gums. Neem is included in most Ayurvedic Skin products because it is as effective on an external application as through internal indigestion.
In Ayurveda it has been safely used for over five thousand years and are a good immunity booster to prevent colds, fevers, infections and various skin diseases.
Shilajit (Mineral Pitch, Asphaltum) - Shilajit is one of the prime Ayurvedic compounds for rejuvenating the body. it is an aphrodisiac, anti-aging herb and to treat diabetes and debilitating urinary problems.
The Charaka Samhita states that a person must use shilajit for a minimum of one month before starting to realize he regenerating effects. It is also used to treat impotency and infertility. it is well known that Shilajit would return the libido of people to level of teenagers.
There is a folk saying by the indigenous people who live in the Himalayan region that Shilajit makes the body strong as a rock. It is an adaptogen, (Rasayna), that helps to combat immune disorders, urinary tract disorders, nervous disorders and sexual dissatisfaction.
Shallaki (Boswellia Serrata, Salai Guggul) - Modern Research indicate that the Boswellia herb may assist in treating joint mobility, pain, and may be a useful remedy for a variety of inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. A recent clinical trial suggests positive effects of Boswellia serrata extract in knee osteoarthritis.
Boswellia has also been found to be useful for a number of other disorders and best for treating Back Pain, Knee Pain, Joint Pain and Arthritis. This herb has also been proposed as a possible therapy for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Triphala (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, Haritaki) - Triphala has got the properties of three famous nutrients: amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. The advantage of this formula is that it is milder in action and more balanced than any of the three alone.
It has cleansing and detoxifying action. Used regularly it is good for gentle, slow detoxification of the digestive tract and then the deep tissues. It also has the ability to normalize all three humors with continued use.
As a daily supplement triphala is hard to beat; that' s why in India they say "even if your mother leaves you, every thing will be fine if you have triphala"
Tulsi (Holy Basil, Ocimum Sanctum) - Its very name Holy Basil certifies to its sacred nature. It is a sacred plant worshipped in many Indian homes and is a must in every Hindu's house.
Holy basil is also a major ingredient of many Ayurvedic cough syrups. it is a good stress reliever, and modern research has found it to be good for Respiratory problems, Cold, Fever and all types of Cough.

Dr John Anne

7 Native American Herbal Healing Secrets

Are you aware of the fact that Native Americans lived in this country for thousands of years and never had one case of many of the common illnesses we face daily? I believe the reason they were healthier is because they lived off the land and used herbs and other plants as their food and medicine. These herbs are still available to us and can be found in your local pharmacy, health-food store or at many websites online.


Let's take a look at seven of the herbs used by these healthy people:

1. Arnica

- This herb was used by Native Americans for joint pain and muscle aches. Modern research has determined that this herb stops inflammation and contains a natural pain reliever (caffeoylquinic acid). A study performed in Great Britain found that it also reduces pain and stiffness associated with carpel tunnel syndrome. In addition, this wondrous substance boosts circulation to injured tissue. For this purpose buy it in a topical gel or cream form and rub it into skin where you have scrapes or bruises.

2. Black cohosh - This herb mimics estrogen and helps balance hormones. Studies have found that it relieves PMS symptoms, including irritability and menstrual cramps. No doubt, this is the reason the Algonquins named it "cramp bark." It also helps ease menopausal symptoms in older women such as hot flashes and night sweats. This herb is thought to be as effective as prescription hormone therapy, minus the adverse side-effects. On top of these benefits, a new study suggests that this herb may cut the risk of developing breast cancer by as much as 60%.

3. Sagebrush - Native Americans often burned this herb to purify the air at ceremonies. Come to find out, this plant contains several ingredients which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. When it is burned, the space around it is sanitized as these ingredients are released into the air. When these ingredients are breathed into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, they can kill harmful germs. By the way, the plant we're talking about here grows wild in the western US and is not related to the spice used in cooking.

4. Saw Palmetto - By now probably everyone knows that saw palmetto can cut the risk of prostate cancer, but recently it has been discovered that when used by women, it gets rid of facial hair. It is responsible for these two seemingly unrelated benefits because it balances the body's hormones. It is also being used to help some patients who have polycystic ovary syndrome.

5. Stinging nettle - New research indicates that this herb has many benefits and that it is 50% more effective at overcoming nasal allergies than the most popular over-the-counter meds. It seems that this herb impedes the production of histamine, which is a chemical produced by the immune system that causes congestion, sneezing and other related allergy symptoms. It is a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, as well, and helps shrink swollen nasal passages.

6. White Willow - Native Americans made tea from this herb and drank it to ease aches and pains. The bark of this plant contains salicin, which is the same chemical in aspirin that is responsible for the relief of pain. There is a difference in how the same substance from two different sources is absorbed by the body: aspirin works faster, while white willow relieves pain longer. An added benefit of white willow is that it doesn't irritate the stomach. You can either drink this as a tea or take it in capsule form.

7. Yarrow - The Navaho called this tiny flower "life medicine," and it contains ingredients that can numb pain on contact. It also contains natural coagulants that help stop bleeding from wounds. It is also an antiseptic and kills surface bacteria. The Cherokee bathed in the leaves of this plant after battles to help speed healing time. It can also be used for skin rashes and conditions like eczema. Look for it in your health food store in cream or ointment form.

Native Americans were very attuned to the land and discovered the medicinal properties of these wondrous herbs which helped keep them healthy. The real beauty of using these herbs is that they don't produce the adverse side-effects of prescription and over-the-counter medications. I don't know about you, but that's enough for me to give these a try if the need arises.
Gene Cook 

The Best Herbal Supplements: General Health and Immune System Concerns

The development and popularity of the best herbal supplements can best be described as an overnight phenomenon. This may be a complete exaggeration but the reality is that in the United States alone, over 100 million health-conscious Americans consume dietary supplements due to the belief that these are capable of providing valuable nutrients, supporting the immune system and uplifting memory and sleeping habits.

Even before prescription medicines were introduced, pure herbs were already being used as the main source for curing sicknesses and restoring people’s health. In fact, indigenous plants were believed to be very effective in treating various diseases. During ancient times, there was an abundance of medicine men, quack doctors and faith healers. These early physicians made use of leaves, barks, twigs, roots, flowers and extracts to treat their patients. The plants were administered externally or taken internally under the supervision of the native practitioners. These early doctors crushed the dried and pure herbs or mixed them with water or hot soup to cure wounds, disorders and other known diseases.

Today, the best herbal supplements are widely used and have gained prominence in the medical world. More and more people are looking at alternative forms of treatment as worthy substitutes for traditional medicines. Due to the proliferation of information that pharmaceutical products have various detrimental effects, natural remedies are gaining more public acceptance. In fact, these products have been around for several centuries but it was only during recent years that the public has given them a lot of attention.

The perception that pure herbs are more effective than contemporary medicines in certain cases continues to increase. Thousands of years ago, these herbal potions were only used to treat ordinary abdominal pains and headaches. Surprisingly, medical research says that these dietary pills and blends have the capability to help people contend with serious disorders and help in reducing cholesterol levels, reinforce the cardiovascular system, facilitating digestion, improving memory and revitalizing one’s energy.

The best herbal supplements have become valuable because of

their therapeutic effects. While these cannot cure patients completely, supplements fortify the human body and intensify its resistance against chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension and problems with internal organs. The basic advantage that it possesses as compared with standard antibiotics and pain relievers is the absence of harmful side effects. If you are looking for effective supplements, it is important to check out the manufacturers and find out if these firms adhere to the good manufacturing process that pharmaceuticals also have to follow.

Supplements produced out of pure herbs are sold in health stores and online retail outlets. There are distinct products as well as a mixed formula made up of extracts together with minerals, vitamins amino acids and other essential nutrients. Likewise, these contain an ample amount of nourishing substances that can be utilized to facilitate wellbeing. However, since these supplements are not governed by the stringent rules that drug manufacturers have to follow, it is advisable to guard against possible side effects that can cause harm to the body.

By TIM BABER