VitaBlog The Vitacost Blog: Views and News on Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs

Fenugreek Seed to Enhance Feminine Beauty

Fenugreek seeds contain bioactive constituents beneficial to a woman's health. They've been used for centuries as a spice in India and now here in the West as a digestive supplement and galactagogue to boost the milk production of nursing mothers. Fenugreek seeds have also been found useful for enlarging breasts, as the aromatic herb contains the same diosgenin used in the making of synthetic estrogen. In fact, fenugreek seed is best known the world over for its potential in preserving feminine beauty.

Once you get past the herbs fairly far out name, which by the way loosely translates to "Greek Hay," you'll find the mucilage contained in fenugreek seed supplements to be soothing on the digestive tract and a way to promote regularity. Mucilage has an anti-inflammatory impact on stomach tissue, and because its role in metabolism is crucial to digestive wellness, fenugreek mucilage sets the foundation for a healthy immune system.

As a dietary supplement taken regularly, fenugreek seed may lower serum cholesterol and keep arterial walls free from plaque buildup. For all it does, fenugreek is priced reasonably and is highly recommended for women looking to balance their lifecycle through better nutrition.

Elderberry is Shining Star among Antioxidants

The headline reads, "NY Giants Get Last Minute Big Game Boost from an Elderberry Extract." The story appears in a February 2008 edition of Business Wire and claims that star players for the Giants took black elderberry extract prior to Super Bowl XLII, curing "flu like symptoms." Elderberry is widely used in Europe to boost the immune system and fight colds and flu.

For those of you unfamiliar with Elderberry, it has an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 240 units per 100 grams – smack dab between blueberries and raspberries and fourth down from acai at the top. That's berry good and superior to cranberries' ORAC of 120.

It's the flavonoids in Elderberry, quercetin in particular, that account for Elderberries' antioxidant qualities. And although you may have read some comprised press lately about how the antioxidant properties of certain berries has been over-exaggerated by the media, I highly doubt, if elderberry were among them, researchers would be looking so closely at its potential in fighting bird flu. 

Artemisinin Detoxifies the Body

Known for its ability to fight malaria, artemisinin benefits include digestive support and immune system strength. Derived from Asian wormwood, Artemisinin has been adopted by the World Health Organization as part of its worldwide fight against malaria deaths in children. As an everyday dietary supplement, Artemisinin may help rid the body of environmental toxins and battle stress. 

Because artemisinin supplements are not regulated by the FDA, a product's strength, efficacy and consistency are all questionable. When shopping for an arteminisin supplement, choose one from a reputable company such as NSI or Doctor's Best, so as not to sacrifice quality.

Artemisinin has proven so effective in treating symptoms of malaria that biotech companies have begun to development a synthetic counterpart, so that every country in the world can have affordable access to this life-saving medicine. Taking arteminisin daily is said to improve overall health and fight the free radicals that cause oxidative stress.

Sweet Dreams with Hops

Do you lie awake at night worrying instead of getting a restful night's sleep? Some anxiety is normal. After all, today's fast-paced world is full of stress. But if too much stress and worry is interfering with your ability to live a healthy life and get a restful, regenerating night's sleep, it's time to take control.

Fatigue, insomnia, stomach problems, sweating, rapid breathing and heartbeat, shortness of breath, worry and irritability are some common symptoms of anxiety. Plants, known as "nervines" (nerve tonics) such as Hops are used in traditional herbal medicine to help alleviate anxiety. Yes, Hops... the same Hops that are used in making beer. Hops are the cone-like, fruits of the plant (Humulus lupulus), which have been shown to have mild sedative properties. Hops have been used alone and in combination with other herbal supplements like valerian to help promote relaxation and reduce nervousness, anxiety and irritability.

Natural therapies such as Hops can be an important part of your approach to relieving anxiety. Eliminating caffeine from your diet is widely recommended, as is learning to relax and creating a quiet, restful place to sleep.

Kare-N-Herbs — Nature's Solution to Life's Simple Problems

Kare-N-Herbs produces some of the world's finest natural health products. Whether your goal is to maintain your current good health, or to treat a chronic condition that keeps you from enjoying your life to the fullest, the fast-acting, all-natural, non-toxic ingredients in these Kare-N-Herbs supplements may be the answer. For many years, the ingredients found in Kare-N-Herbs products have been widely used in Scandinavia, India, China and other regions of the world. For instance, Kare-N-Herbs Kold Kare contains the extract of the medicinal plant Andrographis paniculata.

This herb has been used to reduce headache pain, sinus pressure, fever, congestion and general fatigue. Kare-N-Herbs Energy Kare contains the rare Nordic plant Rhodiola rosea, which may help support your body's ability to generate and use energy. It may help to support healthy mental function, strength and endurance. Kare-N-Herbs Tranquility Kare contains the mild sedative herb Withania somnifera. Its anti-stress properties help you to relax without the drowsiness and side effects of tranquilizers. So when it comes to improving your quality of life the safe and natural way, remember that Kare-N-Herbs supplements contain all-natural ingredients that work quickly and naturally.

Devil's Claw Supports Joint and Cardiovascular Health

Devil's Claw is a shrubby vine indigenous to the red sand areas in Namibia and the Transvaal of South Africa. Natives have traditionally used Devil's Claw as a tea to treat gastrointestinal maladies and rheumatic conditions. It gets its name from its rather curious appearance - its seedpods closely resemble claws covered with small hook-like protuberances.

While it may look menacing, you might find Devil's Claw's benefits to be downright heavenly. Devil's Claw offers comfort to individuals suffering from mild cases of indigestion. It may also be a godsend to persons experiencing non-specific lower back pain. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties it's believed to possess support joint health, comfort and mobility. Devil's Claw has also been used to promote cardiovascular health and blood flow. Not bad for an herb with such a daunting name!

Comfrey contributes numerous healthful benefits

Comfrey is one multi-tasking herb! Not only does comfrey have powerful antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, comfrey also promotes healthy cholesterol levels, healthy cell growth, good digestion, stomach comfort, rapid bone repair and the softening of body tissues. Because it is rich in nutrients, comfrey contributes to all around good health.

Comfrey's numerous nutrients and vitamins include vitamins A, the B-complexes and C. It is interesting to note that Comfrey is one of only two plants (besides alfalfa) that naturally contain vitamin B-12. Comfrey is also rich in fiber, calcium, potassium, copper, iron, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

So where on earth does this incredible herb come from? Comfrey has a black, turnip-like root and large leaves that bear small bell-shaped white, cream, purple or pink flowers. It has been found in valleys and meadows throughout Europe and North America. Comfrey has been used by the Greeks for centuries as an herbal remedy. Comfrey has also been used throughout the Middle Ages to mend fractured bones (comfrey's Latin name is confirmare which means to "join together").

Comfrey's high nutrient content and versatility is quite impressive whether you want to tap into it for a specific health benefit or just want to contribute to your overall good health!

Ease Symptoms with Motion Sickness Herbs

Motion sickness can definitely cramp your style. There you are, out and about and all of a sudden…the queasiness, the headache, the cold sweats and the discomfort – ugh! Motion sickness occurs when signals from your body's balance system are not in concert with its visual cues. For example, your body may sense motion when your eyes see none; conversely, your eyes may perceive movement that your body does not feel.

Some ways to prevent motion sickness include:

• Avoid reading while in motion
• Get plenty of fresh air
• Try to avoid heavy eating or drinking
• Focus on and try to enjoy the view outside

If you do find yourself in the throws of motion sickness, you can get relief the natural way through motion sickness herbs such as ginger root, raspberry leaf and peppermint leaf.

The ingredients found in ginger root are believed to aid in neutralizing stomach acids and therefore seen as helpful in reducing motion sickness and other similar stomach maladies.  Ginger root is also seen to be beneficial in reducing dizziness and flatulence.

Red raspberry leaf has been used to promote relief from cramping. Its high tannin content is believed to help control diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Peppermint leaf is another herb that demonstrates a relaxing effect on gastrointestinal tissue.

Alfalfa promotes digestive, bone and heart health

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a very versatile legume known for promoting some very healthful benefits! Civilizations have used alfalfa for centuries to enhance overall well-being. Due to its deep root system, alfalfa is able to pull many valuable materials from the soil, making alfalfa rich in beneficial materials and nutrients. 

The materials and nutrients found in alfalfa leaves include calcium, magnesium, potassium and carotene. The leaves of the alfalfa plant are also rich in protein, vitamins E and K, as well as all eight essential amino acids and ten non-essential amino acids. Alfalfa is also a good source of chlorophyll.

The healthful benefits associated with alfalfa's various compounds are numerous! For starters, alfalfa promotes healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels – which can benefit overall heart health. Due to its alkalizing nature, alfalfa may have a detoxifying effect on the body. With its high nutritive value, alfalfa also enhances energy levels. 

Alfalfa is also rich in saponins, which promote healthy cholesterol levels, stimulate the immune system and support cardiovascular health. Alfalfa contains plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) which support bone health, and also includes an abundance of highly active antioxidants.
In addition, the high fiber content in alfalfa encourages healthy digestive systems and cholesterol levels.

So to help keep your body running clean, energized and strong, use an alfalfa supplement and watch your overall health sprout!

Ginger Eases Queasy Stomachs

Commonly used as a spice in Chinese and Indian cuisine, ginger is also known as a digestive-health aid, offering relief for nausea and stomach discomfort associated with travel, pregnancy, illness and more.

Ginger is believed to stimulate digestive function and improve circulation to the digestive organs, increasing production of enzymes and fluids that ease the digestive process. It also has antioxidant properties and may function as an anti-inflammatory, helping ease pain associated with poor joint health.

Available in capsule form, the recommended dose of ginger for digestive health is 1,000 mg every four hours, or two 1,000 mg capsules three times daily. Ginger teas and beverages can also be sipped to soothe an upset stomach.

Please note: atificially flavored ginger ales and other ginger beverages do not offer the health benefits of genuine ginger. To view the complete selection of genuine ginger products available at Vitacost.com, click here.

Try Slippery Elm for Throat Relief and More!

Slippery elm bark, extracted from the inner bark of the slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) tree, was traditionally prepared into a "slippery salve" by Native Americans, who applied it to wounds, burns and infections and also ingested it for digestive relief.

Today slippery elm is recognized not only for promoting digestive and respiratory health, but also for the relief it provides for soreness and irritation to the mouth and throat. It provides a soothing coat to the lining of the throat and may help ease the urge to cough.

Slippery elm lozenges, in cherry or original flavor, are available from Thayer's Natural Remedies through Vitacost.com. Slippery elm can also be consumed as a tea, or in capsule form, with a recommended dose of two capsules (containing 250 mg to 500 mg of slippery elm bark each) daily.

Juniper Berries Promote Digestive, Urinary Health

Small, grayish-blue berries that grow on certain evergreen shrubs in Europe and the western U.S., juniper berries are perhaps best known for flavoring gin as well as some game meat dishes and stews.

Native Americans and early settlers used juniper berries—dried and ground into a tea—for its beneficial effects on digestion. Juniper berries are believed to increase the flow of digestive fluids, helping to reduce gas, cramping and other stomach discomforts.

The antiseptic properties of juniper berries may also help assist with the removal of waste and toxins from the body, promoting urinary tract health. In addition, they may help eliminate excess water retention and contribute to temporary weight loss.

Vitacost.com carries both capsule and liquid varieties of juniper berry. For more information, click here.

Saw Palmetto Promotes Healthy Prostate Function

The extract of saw palmetto, a plant named for it razor-sharp, saw-like leaf stalks, is commonly used to promote healthy prostate function.

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH), or enlarged prostate, affects more than 50 percent of men over age 60 and as many as 70 percent of men over age 70. The condition, which results in frustrating and painful difficulties with urination, may be caused by an excess of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Saw palmetto berries contain fatty acids and plant sterol believed to naturally support hormone metabolism. Studies suggest it may also help with symptoms such as urinary frequency, flow rates and volume. For prostate health, the recommended dose of saw palmetto is 160 mg, twice daily.

Elderberry Extract: All-Natural Cold & Flu Relief

Also known as the “Englishman’s grape,” elderberries are a purplish-black fruit commonly used to make pies, jellies, jams, and wines. Besides being a delicious dessert ingredient, elderberries, along with the flowers, leaves, and bark of the elder tree (sambucus nigris) have been recognized for centuries for their health-promoting properties.

Containing vitamin A, B, and C, along with high levels of antioxidant flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, and amino acids, elderberries help strengthen and maintain the immune system. They may also have diuretic, laxative, sedative, and astringent properties.

Elderberry teas, syrups, extracts, and cough drops are available at health and natural-food stores. Nature’s Way® manufactures the Sambucol™ line of elderberry products—available right here at Vitacost.com! This cold and flu season, skip harsh, chemical pills and syrups and instead experience the soothing, natural relief of elderberry.

Got Milk Thistle?

Milk thistle, a plant with a long stem, purple-ish flowers, and wide leaves, has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 2, 000 years. Also known as “St. Mary’s Thistle,” “Holy Thistle,” and “Blessed Thistle,” legend has it that as Mary sat under a milk thistle tree to nurse the baby Jesus, a drop of her milk fell, forever staining the plant’s leaves with white veins.

Nicholas Culpepper, a British herbalist, was first to record the value of milk thistle in treating diseases of the liver and spleen in the late eighteenth century. Recent studies show that active substances in milk thistle, particularly the antioxidant flavonoid silymarin, may protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and viruses, while also promoting the growth of new liver cells.

Silymarin is also the only known antidote for “death cap” mushroom poisoning (which destroys the liver by shutting down protein production in the liver cells). Milk thistle is commonly used for other conditions including psoriasis, gall bladder disorders, lactation problems, HIV, and cancer.