Chinese Chaste Tree (Lagundi)

Scientific name: Vitex negundo

image from Amazon

Common or local names:

Vitex negundo is known by various local names in different regions:

Commonly known as the Chinese chaste tree, five-leaved chaste tree, horseshoe vitex, nisinda or vitex

In India, it is commonly known as "Nirgundi" or "Sambhalu" in Hindi and other regional languages.

In the Philippines, it is called "Lagundi."

Other names include "Huang Jing" in Chinese and "Nochi" in Tamil.

Description:

Vitex negundo typically grows up to 2-8 meters in height. It has an erect and branched growth habit. The leaves are digitate, with five leaflets, sometimes three. The leaflets are lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate, with the central leaflet being the largest. The plant bears small, fragrant lavender or blue flowers on panicles during the summer and autumn. The fruits are small, round to oblong drupes turning black when ripe.

Habitat: Native to Asia, widely distributed across Asia, Africa, and North America, often found in wastelands, roadsides, and open woodlands.

Parts Used:

The most commonly used parts of Vitex negundo for medicinal purposes include:

Leaves: Treatment of headache, fever, coughs, diarrhea, rheumatism, skin diseases, anxiety, and menstrual disorders.

Fruits: Alleviation of pain, fever, and rheumatism.

Seeds: Treatment of worm infections and skin diseases.

Bark: Used for stomach problems and as a tonic.

Each part may be used for different therapeutic effects, with leaves being the most widely utilized for medicinal concoctions.

Medicinal Uses and Properties:

Vitex negundo is renowned for its wide array of medicinal uses, including:

Anti-inflammatory: It is used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, especially in conditions like arthritis and rheumatism.

Analgesic: The plant has pain-relieving properties, making it useful for headaches, body aches, and toothaches.

Bronchodilator and Expectorant: Lagundi is particularly renowned for its ability to relieve respiratory ailments. It acts as a bronchodilator, helping to expand the airways and ease breathing in conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, it serves as an expectorant, facilitating the removal of mucus from the respiratory tract.

Antipyretic: The plant is also known for its fever-reducing capabilities.

Antihistamine: Vitex negundo can help in managing allergic reactions by acting as an antihistamine.

Anxiolytic and sedative: Some studies suggest it may have anxiety-reducing and sedative effects.

How to Make a Concoction or Tea for Medicinal Purpose:

A simple way to prepare a medicinal concoction or tea using Vitex negundo (specifically the leaves) is as follows:

Gather fresh leaves: If possible, pick fresh leaves of Vitex negundo for the most potent effect. You can also use dried leaves if fresh ones are not available.

Rinse the leaves: Clean the leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

Boil water: Bring a pot of water to a boil. The amount of water depends on how much tea you want to make, but a general guideline is about 2 cups of water for every handful of leaves.

Add the leaves to boiling water: Once the water is boiling, add the Vitex negundo leaves. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The time can be adjusted depending on how strong you want the tea to be.

Strain and serve: After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and strain the tea into a cup or teapot, discarding the leaves. The tea can be consumed warm or cold, depending on preference. Honey or lemon can be added for flavor, but it's best to consume it plain for medicinal purposes.

Precautions and Warnings:

While Lagundi is generally considered safe for most individuals when used as directed, there are a few precautions and warnings to keep in mind:

Pregnant and Nursing Women: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using Lagundi, as its effects on pregnancy and lactation are not well-studied.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to Lagundi. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using any Lagundi-based products, especially if you have a history of plant allergies.

Drug Interactions: Lagundi may interact with certain medications. If you are taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare provider before using Lagundi to avoid potential interactions.

In conclusion, Lagundi, or Vitex negundo, is a remarkable medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use in various cultures. Its leaves and roots contain an array of valuable compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and bronchodilatory properties, among others. However, like any herbal remedy, it is essential to exercise caution and seek professional guidance when using Lagundi, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking medications. When used responsibly, Lagundi can offer a natural and effective way to manage various health issues, providing relief and improving overall well-being.

What are Phytonutrients found in plants?

Phytonutrients, also called phytochemicals(from Greek phyto, meaning "plant") are natural chemicals or compounds produced by plants.

These compounds serve various functions for the plants, including protection against pests, UV radiation, and diseases. When humans consume plants that contain phytonutrients, these compounds can have positive effects on our health. Many phytonutrients have antioxidant properties that help prevent damage to cells throughout the body. 

Phytonutrients are not essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, but they have been associated with various health benefits such as antioxidant activity, antimicrobial effects, anticancer property, improvement of immune system and modulation of hormone metabolism.

Here are some common types of phytonutrients and their potential health benefits:

1. Carotenoids: These are pigments responsible for the red, orange, and yellow colors in fruits and vegetables. They include beta-carotene (found in carrots), lutein (found in leafy greens), and lycopene (found in tomatoes). Carotenoids have antioxidant properties and may help protect against certain chronic diseases, including heart disease and age-related eye conditions.

2. Flavonoids: These are a diverse group of phytonutrients found in a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and beverages like tea and red wine. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and they may support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

They can be further categorized into several subgroups based on their chemical structure and properties. Here are some of the main types of flavonoids:

        Flavonols: Flavonols are one of the most common subgroups of flavonoids. They are often found            in fruits, vegetables, and beverages. Some well-known flavonols include: Quercetin: Found in                 apples, onions, and tea, quercetin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Kaempferol: Present in foods like broccoli, kale, and spinach, kaempferol is associated with                       potential anti-cancer effects and cardiovascular benefits.

Myricetin: Found in berries, grapes, and red wine, myricetin also has antioxidant properties.

Flavanols (Flavan-3-ols): Flavanols are commonly found in cocoa, tea, and certain fruits. They are known for their potential cardiovascular benefits. Notable flavanols include: Epicatechin: Present in cocoa and dark chocolate,  epicatechin may help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease. Catechin: Found in green tea, black tea, and some fruits, catechins are antioxidants associated with various health benefits.

Flavanones: Flavanones are primarily found in citrus fruits and are known for their potential anti-inflammatory properties. Examples include: Hesperidin: Abundant in oranges, hesperidin is associated with cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits.Naringenin: Found in grapefruits and tomatoes, naringenin has antioxidant and anti- inflammatory properties.

Anthocyanins: These flavonoids provide red, purple, and blue colors to many fruits and vegetables. They are known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Examples include:

Cyanidin: Found in berries, red cabbage, and cherries, cyanidin has antioxidant effects and may support heart health.

Delphinidin: Present in blueberries and cranberries, delphinidin is associated with potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Isoflavones: Isoflavones are primarily found in soybeans and soy products. They have gained attention for their potential hormonal effects due to their similarity to estrogen. Common isoflavones include genistein and daidzein.

Proanthocyanidins (Condensed Tannins): Proanthocyanidins are found in foods like grapes, apples, and cocoa. They are known for their antioxidant properties and may have benefits for cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Chalcones: Chalcones are less common but still present in some plants. They have antioxidant properties and are occasionally used for their potential health benefits. Foods high in chalcones are pears, tomatoes and strawberries.

3. Polyphenols: Polyphenols are a larger category of phytonutrients that include flavonoids, but also other compounds like resveratrol (found in red wine and grapes) and curcumin (found in turmeric). They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties.

4. Glucosinolates: Found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, glucosinolates can be converted into compounds that may help protect against certain types of cancer.

5. Phytosterols: These compounds are structurally similar to cholesterol and are found in plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds. Phytosterols can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, making them beneficial for heart health.

6. Lignans: Lignans are found in seeds, particularly flaxseeds, and may have antioxidant properties, as well as potential benefits for heart health and hormone-related conditions.

7. Saponins: Saponins are compounds found in legumes (like beans and lentils) and certain vegetables. They may have cholesterol-lowering and immune-modulating effects.

8. Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in herbs, spices, and some fruits. They have diverse health effects and are often responsible for the distinctive flavors and aromas of these foods.

It's important to note that phytonutrients often work synergistically with other nutrients found in whole foods, and consuming a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts is the best way to benefit from their potential health advantages. Different phytonutrients offer different benefits, so incorporating a wide range of plant-based foods into your diet can help ensure you get a diverse array of these compounds.

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Basil

Scientific name: Ocimum basilicum

Other names: Anise Basil, White Basil, Sweet Basil, French Basil, Lemon basil,  Holy Basil, African Blue Basil.

Description:  One of the most widely-used culinary herb in the world. This annual herb of the mint family Lamiaceae (mint) is grown for its aromatic leaves. Growing 0.5 to 1.5 meters high, its leaves are ovate to oblong-ovate, entire or slightly toothed. The stems are tough and square and produce spikes of white flowers followed by small, black seeds. Fruits are nutlets, smooth or somewhat rugose. Inflorescence 20 cm long, corolla 4-5 cm long.

Basils may look almost identical but have distinct aromas, while others have the same aroma yet different in appearance. Many cultivars are available, often named after the type of aroma they emit.

Selected cultivars (from seed) include:
Sweet basils: Sweet, Genovese, Large-leaf, Mammoth
Purple foliage basils: Dark Opal, Purple Ruffles
Lemon basils: Lemon-Scented, Lemon, Sweet Dani
Others: Cinnamon basil, Spicy Bush, Camphor, Anise, Licorice

The green aromatic leaves are used either fresh or dried as flavorings, condiments or spices in salads, sauces, stews and even confectionery products. The essential oil of basil is used in perfumery, soaps and shampoos.

Parts used:
Leaves and seeds


Medicinal properties:
• The dried leaves contain 0.21–1% essential oil, the major compounds of which are linalool and methyl chavicol (estragole), at a ratio of 2 or 3:1
• Phytochemical analysis of leaves yielded several compound e.g. alkaloids, phenols, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids.

• Leaves and seeds are considered stimulant and diuretic.
• Seeds are demulcent, mucilaginous, anticatarrhal, anti-cancer, hypotensive and are well known as refreshing. 
• Studies have shown sweet basil to possess analgesic, anti-dysmenorrhea, anti- hypochondria, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, cardiac stimulant, carminative, chemomodulatory, CNA depressant, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, and larvicidal activities.

Basil is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Traditionally, basil has been used as a medicinal plant in treatment of constipation, coughs, diarrhea, headaches, kidney diseases, warts and in deworming. The oils can be mixed with camphor to enhance its antibacterial properties. It can also be used as an insect repellent.

Acne: Apply an infusion of 3 tsp of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 20-30 minutes.
Cough: Take either an infusion or decoction of herb (9-15 gm of dried herb).
Dizziness: Crush fresh leaves and sniff them.
Toothache: Wet small piece of cotton with juice of crushed leaves and placed over a tooth cavity.
Gas pains/ Deworming: Decoction of herb as tea helps to expel worms and reduce gas pains.


REMEMBER to always consult your doctor before using these herbs and medicinal plants.


Special Precautions & Warnings:
Basil is generally SAFE but consuming larger medicinal amounts are possibly UNSAFE. Basil contains estragole, a chemical which is found to cause liver cancer in laboratory mice.

Basil oils and extracts might make bleeding disorders worse and results in a low blood pressure. Thus, it is advised to stop using basil at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Taking basil extract along with medications used for lowering high blood pressure might cause your blood pressure to go even lower. Do not take too much basil if you are taking medications for high blood pressure.

Catnip

Scientific name: Nepeta cataria

Common names: catswort, catmint and field balm

Description: It is native to Central Europe, though now naturalized throughout the northeastern US and Canada.

Catnip is a strong-smelling herb that belongs to the mint family and grows to approximately 1 meter. This flowering perennial has oval-toothed, dark green leaves and white flowering tops.

This herb is commonly used to help calm cats down and reduce the effects of stress and anxiety because of its sedative effect. The chemical compound present in Catnip that attracts and affects cats is called nepetalactone. Thus, it is recommended for use in cat shelters to help make cats more relaxed in an unfamiliar setting.  Take note though that when a cat eats catnip, it acts as a sedative, but when it is just smelled, it causes the cat to go hyperactive.

Catnip also holds amazing benefits for human beings and is a very potent mosquito repellent.

The shoots/leaves have been used as a flavoring in sauces, soups, and stews, as  as well as in fruit table wines and liquors.

The fresh young shoots with its aromatic mint-like flavor are good in salads too.


Parts used: Leaves, flowers and stem


Medicinal properties and Health Benefits: 

Catnip has long been thought to have medicinal properties.

The leaves and flowering tops are sedative, antispasmodic, antitussive,  diaphoretic, astringent, carminative, slightly emmenagogue, refrigerant, slightly stimulant and tonic. Its plant constituents include Nepetalactone, Nepetalic acid, Alpha- & beta- Citral, Geraniol, Dipentene,Limonene, Citronella, Nerol, a terpene, Valeric acid,  Acetic acid, Butyric acid, and Tannin.

The catnip's dried leaves and flowers are made into herbal teas to treat intestinal cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, headache and common colds as well as to cause sweating, to induce menstruation, as a sedative, and to increase appetite.

The dried leaves have been smoked to relieve respiratory ailments, and has been used externally as a poultice to reduce swelling.

Traditional doses for sedation require 4 grams of dried herb that is made into tea.


How to make Catnip tea:

Mix 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves or flowers with 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Add lemon juice and honey.

Some people prefer drinking the tea when the lemon has been immersed for a longer time for the natural minty, citrusy flavor to come out.


Sleep Aid
Catnip has been used by people with insomnia. Its sedative effect helps slow down the body’s natural cycles and induce a calm, relaxed state.

Stress Relief
Catnip reduces stress and chronic anxiety as well as strengthens the immune system.

Speeds up Healing (Flu and colds)
Catnip induces sweating and gets the toxins flushed from the system.

Increased Sweating And Weight Loss
Catnip has diaphoretic property that makes one sweat more. Thus, it removes all harmful toxins from the body and improves metabolism. With improved metabolism, the body will burn fats much more quickly.

Headache/Migraine 
Drinking catnip tea or rubbing Catnip essential oil or leaf salve on the temples can offer quick relief.

Heals Digestive Problems
The organic compounds in catnip has relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects to  relieve tightness and discomfort of the gastrointestinal system.

Menstrual cramps/Irregular periods 
Catnip tea is a natural remedy to quickly relieve cramps and stresses in the body. Its sedative and calming effects can also soothe mood swings, depression and other symptoms of menstruation.

Treats Skin Conditions
Aside from Catnip's natural repellent quality, it also has organic compounds to soothe bug bits, relieve skin of irritation and reduce inflammation quickly.

Beneficial For Kidneys
Catnip is a diuretic meaning it promotes urination and quickly eliminating wastes from the body.

Anti-dandruff
Catnip has antiseptic properties that is good for irritated scalp and those with dandruff. The catnip tea can also be used as a conditioner.

Side effects/Precaution:
It's recommended to drink catnip tea at night as this will make one drowsy.

However, since it's also a diuretic it would cause frequent urination and  frequent trips to the bathroom/interrupted sleep.

You should not drink catnip tea if you’re pregnant, as it can cause uterine contractions that may result in premature labor.

Stop drinking catnip tea for several weeks before surgery, so that it doesn’t interfere with or intensify anesthesia and the central nervous system.

Always consult your doctor prior to taking any medications and avoid self-medication.

Argan Tree (Argan Oil)

Scientific name: Argania spinosa

Description: Argania or Argan Tree belongs to the Sapotaceae family of trees that only grows in the calcareous semidesert Sous valley of southwestern Morocco. The thorny trees can grow up to 26–33 ft high and live from 150 to 200 years in a harsh environment and poor soil. The leaves are small, oval with a rounded apex while the flowers are small with five pale yellow-green petals. The fruit is green, oval-shaped and a little bigger than an olive with a thick, bitter peel surrounding a pulpy pericarp (that's sweet-smelling but has an unpleasant flavor). Its middle layer has the very hard nut that protects the last inner layer that contains up to 3 almond-shaped Argania Spinosa kernels which are oil-rich seeds. Argan oil are produced from the kernels found inside the Argan fruit.

Argan Oil:

The production of Argan oil is a long and tedious manual process. First, the ripe fruits of the argan tree are dried in the open air and manually crushed to separate pulp and pits (In some practices, they let the goats eat the fruits and the kernels are later retrieved from the goat droppings). Then the pits are broken into two to reveal an almond or what is known as the Argania Spinosa kernels. The freshly harvested kernels of the Argan fruit are hand-ground in a stone grinder, hand-kneaded for hours and filtered through an organic cotton sieve (first cold pressed) to extract the aromatic oil.

Argan oil has a nutty flavor and is used for seasoning and as a salad dressing, to dip bread in at breakfast or to drizzle on couscous or pasta. Since Argan oil is easily absorbed by the skin and brings a lot of nutrients, it’s also commonly mixed into a number of cosmetic products like shampoos, soaps, facial cream and conditioners. And, even if it's an oil, Argan oil doesn't clog pores - it's non-comedogenic.


Health Benefits of Argan Oil:

Argan oil is known to be a beauty elixir that you can use from head to toe. It has twice as much vitamin E than olive oil and it is rich in unsaturated fatty acids (consisting of 80%) such as oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic acids. This magnificent oil also has phenols (caffeic acid, oleuropein, vanillic acid, tyrosol, catechol, resorcinol, (-)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin), carotene (Vitamin A) as well as squalene. Argan's superb anti-ageing properties are due to high levels of vitamin E and saponins which soften the skin). Not to mention its abundant anti-oxidants and free radical scavenger effects. Depending on the extraction method, argan oil may be more resistant to oxidation than olive oil.

Medicinal Properties of Argan Oil:

1. Treats acne
Aside from being rich in Vitamins A, E, saponins and antioxidants. Argan oil also has anti-sebum effects which can effectively regulate amounts of sebum on the skin and reduce oiliness. Its high in oleic (omega 9 monounsaturated nonessential) and linoleic (omega 6 unsaturated) fatty acids content aid acne-prone skin.

2. Fast Wound healing and heals skin infections
Argan oil has both antibacterial and fungicidal properties. It is also has a strong combination of antioxidants and all the vitamins needed to heal wounds and infections.

3. Soothes atopic dermatitis
Vitamin E and the natural inflammatory properties found in argan oil can have soothing effects on atopic dermatitis and relieving the itchy, red skin.

4. Has anti-aging effects
Argan oil has long been used as an anti-aging treatment because it significantly increases the elasticity of the skin. The linoleic acid increases skin moisturization levels while the oleic acid improves the skin’s permeability and assist other ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily.

After cleansing morning and/or night, massage a few drops of pure argan oil directly onto your face and neck. It being a dry oil, it absorbs quickly and is not greasy. Argan oil can also be used as a serum by applying a night cream after the Argan oil absorbs into the skin.

When applied externally, tocopherol from the vitamin E helps boost cell production while promoting healthy skin and hair.

5. Prevents and reduces stretch marks
Argan oil improves skin elasticity which help prevent and treat stretch marks.

6. Alleviates Symptoms of Rosacea and Psoriasis

Argan oil contains a large number of healing properties, including antioxidant, unsaturated fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties. These soothes the skin and alleviates psoriasis and rosacea. It also give rash relief.

7. Hair treatment

Massage a generous amount of argan oil into your hair and scalp. The effect is better if you leave it overnight by wrapping your hair and leave it on while you sleep.
If you have dandruff or dry scalp, do an overnight treatment twice a week until the dandruff is gone. Continue with weekly treatments or as needed.

8 . Foot Treatment
If you have dry, cracking skin on your feet or heels, rub 2 drops into your feet.
Cover with socks to give the oil a chance to soak in and leave it for at least 20 minutes, and preferably overnight. You may use a warm washcloth to clean feet afterwards.

9 . Protects from sun damage

Argan oil is traditionally been used to protect skin from sun damage. The antioxidant activity in argan oil helped protect the skin against free radical damage caused by the sun. It prevents sun burns, hyperpigmentation and against the development of skin cancer like melanoma.


How to make a rejuvenating Argan face mask:

1 Tbsp lemon juice
3 Tbsp Greek-style yogurt
1 Tbsp honey
3 drops of Argan oil

Clean and dry face. Apply face mask and leave for 10 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water.

Side effects and risks:

Argan oil is generally considered safe for most people to use. However, some may experience minor side effects as a result of its use. So best to test argan oil on a small, hidden patch of skin to make sure that it won’t cause allergy or irritate your skin.

Side effects related to oral usage are uncertain as few human studies have been conducted.

When ingested orally, argan oil may cause digestive upset, loss of appetite or bloating, and some people may experience skin reactions like rashes or acne breakouts. If you experience anything not normal, stop taking argan oil immediately.

Sea buckthorn (Sea Buckthorn Oil)

Scientific name: Hippophae Ramnoides

Common names: Sandthorn, Sallowthorn or Seaberry

Description:   Sea Buckthorn  are thorny deciduous flowering shrub that can grow between 7 and 13 ft in height and is native to the cold-temperate regions of Europe and Asia. The rough bark is brown or blackish and sea buckthorn has a thick grayish-green crown. This spiny berry-filled bush has pale yellow to dark orange fruits which are oval or lightly roundish and are clustered together. The leaves are lanceolate and has silvery-green upper side.

Sea Buckthorn is used in traditional medicine using its leaves, flowers, seeds and fruits.

In foods, sea buckthorn berries are used to make jams, jellies, juices, purees, and sauces for its sweet flavor.

It is also use is in cosmetics and anti-aging products.


Parts used: leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruits are used to make medicine.

Medicinal properties and Health Benefits:

Sea buckthorn oil has been shown to be an amazing healing oil and has been used in traditional medicine for many centuries. Just make sure that you’re aware of the sourcing and that you use pure sea buckthorn oil.

Sea buckthorn oil is more nutrient dense than in any other forms like tea. The oil is extracted from the yellow-orange berries and seeds of the sea buckthorn plant.  There are two types: the seed oil is colored yellow or pale orange and comes from the seeds while the fruit oil comes from fleshy pulp of the berries which is a dark red or reddish orange in color and thicker.

Sea buckthorn is a powerhouse of nutrients as it over 60 nutrients, amino acids, minerals (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus) and Vitamins A, E, C, K, B1, and B2. It has a high amount of folic acid, antioxidants, xanthophylls, carotenoids, beta-carotene, flavonoids, and phenolics. It also contains all four omegas: omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9.

Flavonoids have a high level of free radical scavenging activity that's why sea buckthorn is good for the protection against oxidative stress, inflammation, tumor growth, ulcers, and stress-induced conditions.

Linoleic acid and other fatty acids found in sea buckthorn oil secrete chemicals, such as carotenoids and tocopherols, that are good to ease dry eyes and help ease inflammation.


Sea Buckthorn Oil Benefits:

1.  Prevents Cancer and helps Combat Cancer

Sea buckthorn oil contains powerful phytonutrients, anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and anti-cancerous compounds that limits the toxicity of chemical cancer treatment (chemotherapy). It also has a liver-cleansing effect and it good to fight against cancer of the liver.

2. Anti-aging and help reduce skin problems.

Sea buckthorn oil slows the aging process and helps reduce many issues with skin like acne, dermatitis, dry skin eczema, stretch marks and skin ulcers.  It is also effective in preventing sunburn,sunburn relief, healing wounds like bedsores and cuts.

3. Fights Diabetes

Sea buckthorn has palmitoleic acid, that helps maintain normal blood sugar levels.

4. Prevents Infections and Boosts the Immune System

Since it is rich in antioxidants, it fights free radical and prevents infections. The pure extracted oil contains 2.4x more carotenoids than other oils.

5. Treats Cardiovascular Disease

The fatty acid known as palmitoleic acid, may be useful in providing heart disease-fighting benefits. It also reduces blood cholesterol levels and provides heart-protective effects against free radical damaging cells to prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension and even heart attacks.

6. Treats Respiratory problems

Sea buckthorn oil is used as an expectorant for loosening phlegm and for treating asthma.

7. Sea Buckthorn Helps Treat Dry Eye Issues

The fatty acids in sea buckthorn increases tear secretion and moisturises the eyes.

Precaution:

Always best to be careful when taking any new substance and consult a doctor prior to using any supplements or medications.

Sea Buckthorn slows blood clotting so it shouldn't be taken by those with bleeding disorders. It is also contraindicated for those with already low blood pressure since sea buckthorn is known to lower blood pressure. A it may cause extra bleeding during surgery, it’s best to stop using for 2 weeks prior to any scheduled surgery.

Chronic use of sea buckthorn may cause yellow staining of the skin.

St. John’s wort

Scientific name: Hypericum perforatum

Description:

A perennial herb with five-petaled yellow flowers that is named after St. John the Baptist, since it's usually in full bloom by the saint's feast day on June 24.

The elongated yellow petals have black spots on edges while its pale green leaves (when held up to the light) has tiny dots that appears to be perforations, hence the species name “perforatum”.  The round numerous small black seeds are stored inside a three-celled capsule and have a resinous smell.

St. John's wort grows as high as 3 feet, shrubby and primarily found in Europe, but has since spread to the Americas, Russia, Middle East and Asia.

When the yellow flowers are crushed it releases a reddish purple oil and when made into an infused oil or tincture, it turns into red.

The best preparations of St. John’s wort are made from the fresh plant and are superior to anything you can find isolated or dried at the store. The fresh St. John's Wort tea is also delicious with a delightful lemony taste.

This plant blends well with a myriad of herbs (e.g. Chamomile, garlic, lemon, passionflower and valerian) to create tinctures, teas and oils.



Recipes:

St. John's Wort Oil: 


Allow the moisture of the plant to dry off for a day.
Place in a jar and add enough olive oil to cover the flowers. Make sure it is completely covered with oil to avoid molds from setting in.
Leave in a warm place for 4 weeks.
Strain the flowers out and store the oil in a cool dark place.

To use: Apply topically to skin.

St. John's Wort Tincture: 

Cover fresh flowers with 95 proof vodka, using 1:2 fresh herb ratio.
Shake every day.
After 4 weeks, strain out the flowers and cap tightly.

To use: Take 15 - 20 drops 3 times daily.

St. John's Wort Tea: 

Steep 2 - 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers in hot water for 4 minutes, and then strain the flowers out.

If with the dried herb, tea can be made by steeping 2 to 3 teaspoons of herb per cup of water in a covered vessel for 30 minutes.

Strain and drink up to 2 cups/day


Parts used: Leaves and Flowers

Medicinal Properties:

St John's wort is known among herbalists as a wonderful herb for its many traditional uses and benefits. It is a
nervine that acts as a tonic and was traditionally used to deeply balance, nourish and restore the nervous system. It also has antiviral, antibacterial, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, astringency and antimicrobial properties.  In addition, it has diuretic action that helps to promote waste and fluid removal.

It will help improve the overall condition of the whole body as it works to tone the vital organs. St John's wort is know to support the liver as a tonic and by helping to stimulate bile flow aiding in the digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

The leaves of St John's wort contain antidepressant compounds that regulate levels of dopamine, melatonin, and serotonin.  Thus, it is used by herbalists to help ease anxiety, tension, neuralgias, as well as mild to moderate depression.

The flowers (oil, tincture) are used for the treatment of wounds, external ulcers, and bruises. Flower tea is used to relieve of bladder problems, worms, dysentery, and diarrhea.

Pain Reliever = relieves the pain of sore muscles caused by neuralgias, sciatica/  It is also proven effective in pinched nerves,  Bell’s palsy as well as in head and spine trauma or anything that involves the nerve endings.

As an antispasmodic, St. John’s wort helps to relax muscles spasms including spasms in the internal organs.

Wound repair = it helps heal wounds quickly by stimulating granulation and capillary regeneration.

Common cold
Flu
PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), painful menstruation
Incontinence - it has a tonic effect on the urinary system easing incontinence


Precaution/Disclaimer:

St. John’s wort may cause photosensitivity and should not be used during pregnancy. It may also interact with other drugs and is not proven effective treatment for severe depression.

Best to consult your doctor before use. This blog is intended to give general information only and is not intended to cure or act as a physician.