herbal medicine Archives - Amazing Health Advances

10 Extraordinary Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:58:31 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Ginger has long been recognized as a flavorful and versatile herb in the kitchen. But you may be surprised to learn that it also has many benefits beyond your favorite culinary creations. If you have ever taken ginger ale to relieve an upset stomach, you probably have some inkling about its effectiveness as a natural remedy. But you would probably be surprised to discover that settling a queasy stomach is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many health benefits associated with this extraordinary herb. Ginger has powerful healing properties It is well-researched, with studies supporting a long list of traditional uses passed down for generations. The use of ginger may support a broad array of antibacterial, antioxidant, and even antiparasitic effects. It has also been credited as an anti-inflammatory agent, opening the door for its potential use in treating many chronic illnesses. Ginger can be consumed fresh, dried, or in extract form. It can also be made with tea or as a supplement. Here are just 10 of the many beneficial uses for this versatile herb: 1. Normalize blood circulation Because it contains the minerals zinc, magnesium, and chromium – which help to improve blood flow – ginger is known for helping to support normal blood circulation. It may also aid in preventing chills, fever, and excessive sweating. In addition, there is evidence from one study that ginger could aid in preventing a heart attack. 2. Prevention of colon cancer According to a University of Minnesota study, the same substance that gives ginger its distinctive flavor appears to play a role in inhibiting the growth of human colorectal cancer cells. The research results strongly suggest ginger compounds may help combat colorectal carcinomas. Other studies have suggested ginger is effective in the battle against several other aggressive cancers, including cancers of the lung, ovaries, breast, pancreatic, prostate, and skin carcinoma. 3. Diabetes prevention There is evidence that ginger may play a role in diabetes prevention. Recent studies have found that ginger is beneficial in preventing and treating the disease, along with its ability to lower blood sugar, fats, and cholesterol. Research also supports the use of ginger for lessening the complications of diabetes and reducing bodily damage caused by the disease. 4. Natural antibiotic There are many reasons to avoid the overuse of antibiotics, from the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to the need to maintain healthy intestinal bacteria. Ginger appears to offer a healthier alternative, exhibiting effective antibiotic action. Again, research also supports using ginger as an antibacterial against respiratory and periodontal infections. 5. Anti-inflammatory Many chronic diseases that are the most prevalent in today’s society can be traced to inflammation. Research has shown that ginger can be very helpful in managing the symptoms of chronic illness. It has also been shown to have the ability to inhibit nitrous oxide production and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may affect neurodegenerative diseases. Lessening inflammation could make ginger useful in treating arthritis, prostate disease, cancer prevention, and general inflammation. 6. Detoxification The toxins and impurities in today’s environment are at war with our bodies on a daily basis. Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, GMOs, bacteria, pollutants, EMFs, and the effects of processed food all contribute to diminishing health and aging. However, studies suggest ginger has a preventive effect on many toxins, lessening their toll on the human body. 7. Relief from nausea and gastric distress Your grandmother was right when she served you that old fashion ginger ale for an upset stomach. Research supports the idea that you can alleviate nausea and gastric distress. This herb can also promote a healthy intestinal environment and contains an anti-spasmodic agent to relieve the pain of gastric distress. Other benefits include the relief of motion sickness, nausea, morning sickness and the prevention of ulcers. 8. Protection from radiation Research has shown that you can reduce the negative effects of radiation. For example, some studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help to protect against radiation-induced damage to various tissues, including the kidneys, by lowering the risk of oxidative stress and inflammation. 9. Menstrual pain relief A double-blind study found ginger to be as effective at relieving menstrual pain as common over-the-counter remedies, such as ibuprofen. 10. Reduced arthritic pain Studies have shown that ginger is just as effective as commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals at relieving pain due to inflammation of gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. There is evidence it may be even more effective. How to easily incorporate plant medicine into your diet Adding this herb to your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s one of the most versatile herbs for sweet and savory dishes. Whether you prefer fresh, dried, powdered, or extract form, there are plenty of simple ways to enjoy its benefits. Start your day with ginger tea. A warm cup in the morning can help wake up your digestion and support overall wellness. Steep fresh slices of this herb in hot water, or use a tea bag for convenience. Blend it into smoothies: Fresh or powdered form of this herb adds a spicy kick to your favorite smoothie and offers digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. Try pairing it with citrus fruits, carrots, or turmeric for a powerful nutrient boost. Use it in cooking: Grate fresh ginger into stir-fries, soups, and curries for a burst of flavor and health benefits. It also works well in marinades and salad dressings. Bake with it: This herb can add warmth to baked goods like muffins, cookies, and breads. Combine it with cinnamon and nutmeg for a comforting, aromatic treat. Enjoy ginger shots: For a concentrated dose of ginger’s goodness, try blending this fresh herb with lemon juice and honey for an energizing shot. Make ginger-infused water: Drop a few slices of this herb into your water bottle for a refreshing, subtly spiced drink throughout the day. Sprinkle ginger powder: For an easy way to include this herb in your diet, add a pinch to oatmeal, yogurt, or even your morning coffee. By incorporating ginger into your meals and drinks, you’ll enhance the flavor of your food and reap the many health benefits this powerful herb offers. Enjoy! Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com To read the original article click here.

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Shilajit: The Ancient Brain-Boosting, Hormone-Regulating Medicinal “Herbomineral”

The AHA! Team — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:47:11 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN via Dr. Axe – When you consider a new supplement, the first thing that comes to mind is probably not a jar of black, tar-like goo. But maybe it should be, because shilajit is an excellent ancient herb (or herbomineral, to be precise) with a host of health benefits. One reason shilajit is such an effective medicinal herb is due to its high fulvic acid content. Fulvic acid has many proven benefits, from improving gut health to keeping skin healthy. This ancient herb contains a huge percentage of fulvic acid and is one of the most common supplements used to increase your intake of this potent acid. Known for thousands of years as a rejuvenator of the whole body, shilajit has garnered a fairly significant body of research for its impact on various body systems. So, before writing it off for its odd appearance, you should take a read into what it may be able to do for you. What Is Shilajit? Known by many names, shilajit is also called mineral pitch, mineral wax, black asphaltum, Asphaltum punjabianum (in Latin), shargai, dorobi, barahshin, baragshun, mumlai, brag zhun, chao-tong, wu ling zhi, baad-a-ghee, and arkhar-tash and mumiyo (variably transliterated as mumijo, mumio, momia, and moomiyo). It’s a tar-like substance (known as a biomass) found in the Himalayan and Tibet Mountains. As lush forests were compacted as mountains arose, shilajit was formed. When the temperatures rise around these Indian mountains, this tar-like medical marvel substance oozes from crevices within the mountains. Ranging from yellowish-brown to pure black in color, the black variety is considered the most nutritional. Over 3,000 years ago, shilajit was mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts. Known as “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness,” it has been one of the staples of traditional medicine (and an aphrodisiac) in a variety of Asian countries for thousands of years. More recently, due to its impressive effect on diabetes, shilajit was included in an herbal supplement known as Diabecon. Another fascinating feature of shilajit is its ability to help reduce the side effects of high-altitude travels. People going from low to high altitude may find it works as a natural way of avoiding “altitude stress.” Nutrition Facts It’s not clear if shilajit is a purely biological or geological substance, as it does have a high presence of nutrients found in both categories. Some of the most often recognized nutrients within it are fulvic acid, humic acids and dibenzo alpha pyrones. Although it’s likely that various types and brands contain different concentrations of some vitamins and minerals, this breakdown of the nutritional content of one brand helps give a starting point for the amounts of common minerals you might find. It’s commonly stated that shilajit, in pure form, contains about 85 different vitamins and minerals. A half-teaspoon serving of shilajit powder (approximately 1.2 grams) contains about: Calories: 3 Iron: 5.4 mg (30% DV) Selenium: 2.8 mcg (5% DV) Zinc: 0.45 mg (4% DV) Calcium: 40 mg (3% DV) Benefits 1. Provides Energy and Revitalization For millennia, practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine have prescribed shilajit to boost energy and revitalize the body. Because of the level of importance these natural doctors put on this supplement, the body of confirmed scientific research on it is growing steadily. One way shilajit helps provide the body with energy is the way it increases the function of mitochondria within the body. Mitochondria are organelles that serve as the “power source” of cells in the body because they convert oxygen and nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the substance that actually powers body cells. Shilajit encourages the function of mitochondria, helping them oxygenate more efficiently. Not only does it help mitochondrial function on its own, but it’s been found to create a powerful effect on mitochondrial oxygenation when combined with supplemented CoQ10, an antioxidant naturally found in all human cells. As this substance helps increase the production of ATP, it increases overall energy and stamina. In fact, it’s commonly used to enhance athletic performance. Chronic fatigue syndrome, a disorder classified by at least six months of inescapable fatigue, has been successfully treated with shilajit supplementation, also evidenced by the way it enhances mitochondrial function. In addition to mitochondrial efficacy, this herbomineral revitalizes the body with its strong antioxidant properties. By fighting disease-causing free radicals, it repairs internal damage to the body caused by chemicals and other dangerous agents you’re exposed to, and it reduces the levels of fat in the blood. 2. Promotes Brain Health Shilajit seems to have a targeted mechanism for protecting brain cells in particular. Initial studies show it has “distinct and marked neuroprotective activity.” In an animal study conducted by the Physiology Research Center at the Kerman University of Medical Sciences in Iran on the effects of shilajit on risk factors following a traumatic brain injury, researchers discovered that it has positive effects on the three most indicative factors of death following traumatic brain injury: brain edema, blood-brain barrier permeability and intracranial pressure. This incredible nutrient may also present a novel treatment option for patients suffering from mild cases of Alzheimer’s disease. The presence of fulvic acid and a treatment protocol including administration with B vitamins have shown promising results in pilot studies. In addition, shilajit exhibits anti-epileptic properties and potentially antipsychotic effects, as it adjusts GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels (a naturally occurring acid in the brain) to normal. 3. Regulates Hormones and Immune System Another important function of shilajit is the way it regulates various body systems, such as your immune system and the balance of hormones. Many researchers agree that it impacts so much of the body because of the way it helps these systems remain in equilibrium. In particular, shilajit impacts reproductive hormone functions. In healthy males, supplementation increases blood testosterone and encourages the production of sperm. When tested in pilot studies involving rats, it was also associated with ovulation in adult female rats, indicating that shilajit powder or resin may be an agent to consider for those struggling with infertility. 4. Alleviates Pain Response Ayurvedic medicine has long praised shilajit for its ability to reduce pain naturally, but research has been limited until the last few years. Because of its interaction with GABA levels in the brain, this herbomineral has a significant effect on orofacial pain (pain of the face, mouth or jaws), acting as a “sedating agent.” A 2015 study on mice found it to relieve and lessen chronic pain over the course of time, dependent on the size of the dose. Regarding pain, in a study involving mice, shilajit interacts positively with morphine, minimizing the buildup of tolerance to morphine and, therefore, reducing the amount of this medication that one in serious pain would need to introduce into his or her system for effective pain relief. 5. May Help Manage Diabetes Those with diabetes may be interested to know that shilajit can help reduce blood glucose and lipid profiles in diabetic rats, especially when taken in conjunction with diabetes medications. Shilajit is a main ingredient in a supplement known as D-400, Diabecon or GlucoCare. This supplement is designed to combine the most powerful Ayurvedic natural treatments into one pill. D-400 reduces blood glucose levels and shows potential to repair damage to the pancreas caused by diabetes. 6. Helps Prevent and Protect from Cancer Fascinatingly, shilajit has been found to be toxic to various of types of cancers, including lung, breast, colon, ovarian and liver cancer. Some researchers attribute its toxicity to these cancer to the presence and combination of heavy metals in the substance, making it a potential natural cancer treatment. Also related to cancer is the ability shilajit has to protect certain body systems from dangerous radiation damage. A June 2016 study published in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics found that it greatly protected ovaries from radiation-related damage in an animal study. 7. Fights Inflammation and Viruses Research finds that shilajit can be effective in healing and preventing gastric ulcers and reducing the inflammation related to them. One 2021 study demonstrated that it helped alleviate gastric lesions in rats. Not only does it help alleviate inflammation, but it has “broad, yet specific” antiviral herb properties. One Italian lab study found significant antiviral activity against a number of herpes-related viruses and HRSV, a virus that causes respiratory tract infections, especially in children. 8. Supports Skeletal Health Shilajit may even improve the health of your skeletal system. In a study of obese patients published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, supplementation greatly improved the function and regeneration of skeletal muscles. 9. Good for the Heart and Blood By exercising its antioxidant “muscles,” shilajit has been shown to protect the heart against damage resulting from drug-induced injury. A study published in Cardiovascular Toxicology performed on rats found that subjects given shilajit had less lasting damage visible on the heart. Preliminary research also indicates that shilajit can help, in certain doses, regulate heart rate. In smaller doses, it may lower a speeding heart rate. However, in large doses, it may have the opposite effect. 10. Aids in Breaking Addictions Because of its unique interaction with other drug substances, shilajit has a profound effect on the process of breaking addiction. When given to patients coming down from opioids, it reduces the actual addiction and minimizes withdrawal symptoms, better in many cases than common medications given to break dependence. Similarly, this medicinal “herb” reduces addiction to alcohol and diminishes the withdrawal experienced by alcoholics who stop drinking. How to Take Shilajit Shilajit is not readily available at a grocery store — however, it’s possible to purchase imported shilajit at various online retailers. The three forms in which it comes are shilajit powder, shilajit resin and supplements. Depending on whom you ask, each option has its benefits, but most experts generally agree that pure shilajit resin is the most “pure” form to buy. In most cases, people find that spooning out a small portion (often between the size of a grain of rice and a pea) and mixing it into water is the simplest method to take it each day. Beware, though: It does not taste great. If you choose to use shilajit, you probably want to get used to quickly downing a glass of water with dissolved shilajit or adding that water to a smoothie or other liquid to counteract the rubbery taste. One important part of purchasing it is to find reputable distributors. There are many companies selling various shilajit products, but many of them have been found to be very impure forms of the substance or cut with other, non-nutritional things. Again, do your research before beginning to take it. Risks and Side Effects Reports on the various “warnings” involving shilajit are inconsistent. However, it’s important to recognize a few possible issues regarding this substance. First of all, the two well-known possible drawbacks include the presence of heavy metals and the ability of large doses to adversely affect blood pressure. If you’re at risk for heavy metal exposure or abnormally low blood pressure, you should be cautious when taking it. It’s also very important to get this substance from a trusted source. Unfiltered shilajit may contain certain dangerous fungi, and this is part of where the problems with heavy metals come in. It’s worth stating that this herbomineral is still in the introductory stages of scientific research — a lot of studies and discoveries are still in their infancy. Final Thoughts Shilajit comes from mountain crevices in the Himalayan and Tibet Mountains and resembles a tar-like substance, ranging in color from yellowish-brown to black (black being considered most nutritionally valuable). Shilajit has been used for over 3,000 years by those practicing Ayurvedic medicine. There is a growing body of scientific evidence to support the its use as a revitalizing agent. Preliminary research has found it to be effective in relieving fatigue, promoting the health of the brain, supporting the immune system, relieving pain, managing diabetes, protecting from certain cancers, preventing inflammation and viral infections, improving skeletal system health,...

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Natural Products and Herbal Medicines Show Promise in Fight Against COVID-19

AHA Publisher — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 08:00:39 +0000

Sally Robertson, B.Sc. via News-Medical Net – Researchers in China and the United States have called for more research into the potential prophylactic effects of natural products and herbal medicines on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and subsequent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In an article recently published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, the team discussed natural products that have exhibited an inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV-2 and herbal medicines that have been tested as potential therapies for COVID-19. “In this review, we aimed to provide a new perspective regarding COVID-19 prevention,” writes Jia-xu Chen from Jinan University in Guangzhou, and colleagues from the University of Houston, and the University of California. The researchers suggest that while the world awaits effective treatments and a commercially available vaccine, the repurposing of natural products and herbal medicines as prophylactics represents a promising approach to at least slow the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. “In the interest of public health, this will lend health officials better control on the current pandemic,” they say. No effective vaccines or therapies are available Since the COVID-19 outbreak first began in Wuhan, China, late last year (2019), the pandemic has swept the globe, devastating public health, and the worldwide economy. COVID-19 is caused by the betacoronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which initiates infection using a surface structure called the spike protein that binds to and fuses with target host cells. Although several vaccine candidates are under evaluation in clinical trials, not one has yet been approved for use, and their long-term effectiveness is uncertain. Besides vaccine development, intense efforts have also been focused on finding effective prophylactics against COVID-19 among high-risk populations. Still, few studies have provided evidence of satisfactory outcomes, say Chen and colleagues. “Since the outcome of current therapeutics in severe/critical COVID-19 patients are still debatable, prevention rather than treatment becomes more important to restrain this pandemic,” writes the team. “Blocking the entry of SARS-CoV-2 and suppressing infection at the initial stage is considered a more practical strategy.” Historically, natural products and herbal medicines have been used for the prevention of viral infections and generally show favorable efficacy and acceptable toxicity, say the researchers. The potential effects of natural products and herbal medicines Now, Chen and the team have published a review summarizing some recent findings regarding the potential effectiveness of natural products and herbal medicines in the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. For example, they discuss compounds derived from natural products that may be effective against the cellular receptor heat shock protein A5 (HSPA5). Some studies have reported that HSPA5 is recognized by the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and one 2020 study showed that the phytoestrogens daidzein, genistein, formononetin, and biochanin A have binding affinities with HSPA5. The researchers say these medicinal, plant-derived compounds may disrupt the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 to host cells (through spike), although their antiviral bioactivity requires further investigation. The host cell enzyme transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) facilitates the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. Inhibition of this enzyme blocks the spike protein’s ability to fuse with the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, one study conducted earlier this year demonstrated that withanone, a compound that can be isolated from Ashwagandha leaves (Withania somnifera) could bind to the catalytic site of TMPRSS2. That study also confirmed that withanone significantly downregulated TMPRSS2 in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7, thereby pointing to its potential to dampen this enzyme’s function. Many studies are preliminary, but some compounds have entered clinical trials The researchers say that many of these studies are all still in the preliminary stages and further pre-clinical studies are needed to examine the antiviral effects of the compounds. “In the meanwhile, a great number of clinical trials have registered to investigate the potentials of natural product to halt disease progression,” says the team. One such trial is investigating the immunomodulatory and antiviral activity of Nigella sativaseed oil among adult patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Another trial is currently recruiting participants to study the effectiveness of vitamin C at reducing mortality among patients. What do the authors conclude? “It is undeniable that herbal medicine is still a promising resource for drug discovery, and its acceptable toxicity makes it a prospective prophylactic candidate against COVID-19,” write Chen and colleagues. In the face of this global health crisis, the team says that exploring prophylactics derived from herbal medicine likely represents a promising and practical approach to containing the pandemic. Natural products and herbal medicine have a long track record in treating respiratory infections and many have been approved as drugs or over-the-counter food additives, say the researchers. “Moderate dosing of such bioactive compounds may prevent or at least slow down the SARS-CoV-2 infection process,” they conclude. To read the original article click here.

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Use Antiviral Herbs to Boost Immune System and Fight Infection

AHA Publisher — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 07:00:59 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Did you know that there are more than 400 different viruses that can cause infections, including the common cold, the flu, hepatitis, mononucleosis and HIV? Today, many people choose to have an annual influenza vaccination, or flu shot, but this is only 80 percent effective because of the mutating strains of the influenza virus; plus, these vaccines educate the immune system in an improper and unnatural manner, and often contain dangerous chemicals and preservatives. Luckily, there are a number of powerful antiviral herbs that boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and fight infections. What Is a Virus? A virus is a small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of other organisms. Viruses can infect all types of life forms — humans, animals, plants and microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea. They’re found in almost every ecosystem on Earth, and they’re the most abundant type of biological entity. Viruses have actually been described as “organisms at the edge of life” because they carry genetic material, reproduce and evolve through natural selection, but they lack cell structure, which is generally needed to be considered living. There are many ways that a virus spreads. In animals, a virus is carried by blood-sucking insects. Some viruses, like influenza, are spread by coughing and sneezing. Viruses like viral gastroenteritis (infectious diarrhea) are transmitted by the fecal–oral route (which is a result of poor sanitation) and are passed from person to person by contact or enter the body through food and water. HIV is one of several viruses that’s transmitted through sexual contact and by exposure to infected blood. The scary thing about contracting a virus is that antibiotics do not work. Vaccines are also unpredictable, and viruses, including those that cause AIDS and viral hepatitis, evade these vaccine-induced immune responses and result in chronic infections. What Are Antiviral Herbs? Antiviral herbs inhibit the development of viruses. Many of the best antiviral herbs boost the immune system, which allows the body to attack viral pathogens. This can be even better than attacking specific pathogens, which antiviral drugs are designed to do, because pathogens mutate over time and become less susceptible to treatment. Not only do antiviral herbs fight viral infections, boost the immune system and work as flu natural remedies, but they have a number of other health benefits, such as cardiovascular, digestive and anti-inflammatory support. Top Antiviral Herbs 1. Echinacea Echinacea has become one of the top-selling herbs of all time; that’s because regular use of echinacea is beneficial for immune support and overall health. There is considerable evidence suggesting that phytochemicals in echinacea have the capacity to reduce virus infections and tumors. Echinacea is one of the most powerful natural antivirals against human viruses. It contains a compound called echinacein that inhibits bacteria and viruses from penetrating healthy cells. This greatly reduces the chances of contracting any type of infection while consuming echinacea. Some more echinacea benefits include its ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve skin problems, treat upper respiratory issues and improve mental health. 2. Calendula The flower petals of the calendula plant, which is sometimes called pot marigold, have been used for medicinal purposes since at least the 12th century. This antiviral herb has high amounts of flavonoids, which are plant-based antioxidants that protect cells from being damaged by free radicals; it also fights viruses, inflammation and bacteria. The dried petals of the plant are used in tinctures, ointments and washes to treat infections, burns, wounds and cuts. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ear drops containing calendula are sometimes used to treat ear infections in children, and scientific studies have found no side effects. 3. Garlic Experiments have shown that garlic — or specific chemical compounds found in garlic — is highly effective at killing countless microorganisms responsible for some of the most common and rarest infections, including tuberculosis, pneumonia, thrush and herpes. Not only is it one of the best antiviral herbs for herpes, but its properties also help to treat eye infections and it works as a natural ear infection remedy. Some more raw garlic benefits include its ability to reduce the risk of cancer, control hypertension, boost cardiovascular health and fight hair loss. To make a garlic oil infusion at home, crush garlic cloves and add them to a carrier oil (like olive oil). Let the mixture sit for about five hours, and then strain the bits of garlic and keep the oil in a jar with a lid. This infusion can also be used as an antiviral herb for cold sores when used topically. You can also swallow a raw clove of garlic; you might need to cut it in half if it’s too large. Bite down once to release the allicin; then swallow with water like a pill. 4. Astragalus Root Astragalus root, another powerful antiviral herb, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and its main use is to boost the body’s immune system. Scientific studies have shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, suggesting that it may help remedy the common coldor flu. It’s one of the most effective antiviral herbs for HSV. A 2004 study evaluated the effects of astragalus on herpes simplex virus type 1 and found that the herb has obvious inhibiting efficacy. Another study published in the Chinese Medical Sciences Journal concluded that astragalus is able to inhibitthe growth of coxsackie B virus in mice. Not only does it work as a natural viral infection treatment, but astragalus also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is used on the skin for wound care. It’s also one the adaptogen herbs to lower cortisol. 5. Cat’s Claw The bark and root of cat’s claw have been used by South Americans for centuries to treat health problems including fevers, stomach ulcers, digestive conditions and dysentery. Cat’s claw is used as a natural arthritis remedy and may treat ulcer symptoms as well. Cat’s claw has antiviral properties, and it’s can helps get rid of herpes. Early studies are researching its effects on HIV as well. This powerful herb is also anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. It’s used to treat digestive problems such as ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and leaky gut syndrome. The best way to consume cat’s claw regularly is by making an herbal tea with a tablespoon of the herb in eight ounces of water. 6. Licorice Root Licorice root is emerging as a prominent player in the search for treatment and prevention for diseases like hepatitis C, HIV and influenza. The Chinese Journal of Virology published a review that confirms the antiviral activity of licorice root due to its triterpenoid content. Another 2010 publication notes licorice’s antioxidant, free radical-scavenging and immunostimulating effects. Some more licorice root benefits include: Sore throat remedy for fast relief Cough natural remedy Protection against leaky gut signs and symptoms Reduce adrenal fatigue Pain relief 7. Olive Leaf The olive leaf has antiviral properties, giving it the ability to treat the common cold and dangerous viruses, including candida symptoms, meningitis, pneumonia, chronic fatigue syndrome, hepatitis B, malaria, gonorrhea and tuberculosis; it also treats dental, ear and urinary tract infections and is a natural treatment for shingles. Research shows that olive leaf extracts effectively fight against a number of disease-causing microbes, including some viruses that cause influenza and other respiratory infections. The powerful compounds found in olive leaves destroy invading organisms and don’t allow viruses to replicate and cause an infection. In fact, the olive leaf is so beneficial to our health that treatment with olive leaf extracts reversed many HIV-1 infection-associated changes in a study done at the New York University School of Medicine. 8. Oregano Oregano is a powerful antiviral agent. Medicinal grade oregano is distilled to extract the essential oil and preserve its healing compounds; in fact, it takes over 1,000 pounds of wild oregano to produce just 1 pound of oregano oil! Oregano oil benefits are proving to be superior to some antibiotics, without the harmful side effects. That’s because oregano contains two powerful compounds, carvacrol and thymol, that have powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. It’s the carvacrol that reverses viral infections, as well as allergies, tumors, parasites and disease-causing inflammation. How to Use Herbal Tea Teas are a great way to get the antiviral benefits of herbs every day. Steep one tablespoon of herbs in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Echinacea, for example, is a popular herbal tea that’s sold in most food stores, so the work is already done for you. Herbal Infusion Herbal infusions are stronger than teas because they require a larger quantity of herbs. To make your own herbal infusion, steep a cup of antiviral herbs in water for about 7 hours. Keep the infusion in an air-tight jar, and drink it cold or heated. Because the infusions are strong, don’t drink more than one cup a day. DIY Herbal-Infused Oil An infused oil is when you heat the herb in a carrier oil for several hours. You can use the oven to heat the mixture, or try leaving it in a hot and sunny place for 12 hours. Use about 1/2 cup of antiviral herbs (you can use one herb or a mixture), and add it to 1 cup of coconut or jojoba oil. If you heat the mixture in the oven, it should be in an oven-safe dish for 3 hours at 200 degrees. If you decide not to use the oven, put the mixture in an air-tight jar and let it sit in a sunny place for about 12 hours. Once the herbs are infused into the oil, drain the leaves and keep the oil in a jar. You can use the oil topically to alleviate pain and get rid of infections. Essential Oils Many of these herbs are sold as essential oils; make sure to purchase organic and pure essential oils from a reputable company. To use essential oils benefits like their antiviral properties, diffuse 3–5 drops in your home, add 2–3 drops to warm bath water or mix 1–2 drops with a carrier oil and apply the mixture directly to the skin. Massaging essential oils into your feet, abdomen and chest is useful when fighting a fever or flu symptoms. If you are new to this natural remedy, use my Essential Oils Guide to get you started. Recipes A great way to get herbs into your everyday diet is by adding them to a smoothie. A great option is my Alkalizing Juice Recipe that has a knob of garlic; this is a great way to fight viral infections and boost your cardiovascular health. Try making herbal teas at home. They’re easy and full of health benefits. You can use licorice root in place of turmeric — just follow my Turmeric Tea Recipe and add a teaspoon of the herb of your choice. However, studies suggest that curcumin allows for turmeric’s antiviral benefits. Don’t miss an opportunity to add these powerful antiviral herbs to your meals. They can be thrown onto so many meals throughout the day, and it’s worth it! Try my Veggie Omelet that calls for garlic and oregano — two antiviral herbs that fight infections. An easy way to add these herbs into your diet is to throw them in healthy soups! Choose from these 49 Healthy Soup Recipes; you can add 2–5 drops of an essential oil, herbal infusion or oil infusion to any of these soups. They boost the flavor and health benefits. Side Effects If you use infusions or essential oils, remember that the products are extremely potent and should not be taken for a long period of time. If you use these natural remedies for their antiviral properties, do not consume them for more than two weeks. Giving yourself a break between long doses is important. If you are pregnant, be cautious of using essential oils and reach out to your health care provider before doing so. Some of...

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New Study Explains the Molecular Mechanism for the Therapeutic Effects of Cilantro

AHA Publisher — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 07:00:21 +0000

University of California – Irvine via Science Daily – Herbs, including cilantro, have a long history of use as folk medicine anticonvulsants. Until now, many of the underlying mechanisms of how the herbs worked remained unknown. In a new study, researchers uncovered the molecular action that enables cilantro to effectively delay certain seizures common in epilepsy and other diseases. To read the original article click here.

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