Herb

Cantharis for cats is used for urinary tract infections. This herb helps to sustain a healthy flow or urine. Cantharis and Staphysagris are normally used together for cat urinary bladder infections. If Cantharis is specifically compounded together with other herbs, like Staphysagris and vitamins in special formulas used in conjunction with a healthy diet you may be able to prevent further problems of the urinary tract.

In homeopathic remedies the herb, plant or sometimes an insect is used. After processing the full potency product is diluted many times and added to a base formula. The theory behind these homeopathic remedies is like cures like. In other words, if the original herb produces the consequences you are trying to cure and it is taken in these very minute properties, the body responds much like the flu shot which when introduced into the body will produce antibodies.

Cantharis and Staphysagris are prescribed when the symptoms are an extreme urge to urinate, pain when urinating and a pain after the flow of urine has stopped. Even when just finishing urination there is another urge to urinate with little or no urine being produced. Cantharis for cats is prescribed if experiencing rapid and severe inflammation of the urinary tract. The relentless burning pain associated with the urinary tract makes the cat afraid to urinate, and so kitty might go to the bathroom on a cool floor outside of the litter box because it feels better, or they might dribble urine any and everywhere.

Prevention is the key for avoiding repeated bouts of bladder problems with your cat. Keeping the litter box clean is an excellent way to prevent urinary infections. Bacteria from the litter box can enter and overrun the urethra. It is also very effective to make sure your animals have plenty of clean fresh water so they will urinate more and flush out any possible start of bacteria. One of the major causes for cat bladder infections is the fact that cats especially don’t drink or eat enough liquids, so if any bacteria do enter into the urethra, bacteria will multiply very fast.

As an added preventative, consider an immune supplement or a good multi-vitamin to help fight off any future infections. Used in combination with Cantharis and Staphysagris your cat will be able to fight off urinary infections.

Uva ursi for pets is making waves as the substance of choice when formulating preparations for the treatment of pet urinary tract infection. It is also said to be effective in the treatment of bladder and kidney stones. Mixing this herb with other herbs to produce a tonic that can be given to pets should be handled with care because an overdose can be quite harmful. That is why the creation of this tonic is best left to homeopathic practitioners and pharmacists.

Uva ursi for pets is a low-growing evergreen shrub that can be seen in various locations around the world. It has been around for centuries, and has been used in the treatment of urinary tract infections in both animals and humans. Uva ursi has antiseptic and analgesic properties that are effective in restoring the proper pH level of the bladder, thereby removing the inflammation and pain that accompanies urinary tract infections. The beauty of this herb is that it can treat the underlying causes of urinary tract infections. Drugs and antibiotics for cat urinary tract infection can only treat the current microbial cause of the infection but does not eliminate the possibility of its recurrence. A regular dose of a supplement that contains uva ursi can reduce the pain and inflammation while creating an environment that makes it less likely for bacteria to grow. Uva ursi for pets is inexpensive, safe and even more effective than its antibiotic counter parts.

There are reports that the use of uva ursi has had some detrimental effects in cats, but these reports usually arise in natural medicine and usually the danger is caused by the incorrect administration or use of the herb. Uva ursi should not be given in its pure form and it cannot be prepared by people with no background in pharmacy or homeopathy. Uva ursi is usually mixed in a standardized formulation in combination with other herbal substances that promote bladder health. This is why pet owners are advised to buy high quality uva ursi laced supplements to guarantee safety and efficacy. It is also said to work best when in granular form.

Other herbs that are used in combination with uva ursi are cantharis and berberis. This combination is gentle for pets so that it can be used daily especially for aged pets who are highly vulnerable to urinary tract infections.

Pet owners will profit the most when ensuring the health of their cats, and they are in the best position to achieve this. The owners are the first to notice if something is amiss. They need to keep informed on what to look out for in terms of urinary health. If their pet refuses to drink too much water, if they seem to be straining too hard to be able to urinate, of they seem to always be missing the spot where they should relieve themselves, then they may be suffering from a urinary tract infection. They should also know that the simplest home remedy is to make them drink plenty of juices or water before making an appointment with your veterinarian.

While uva ursi for pets can certainly help, pet care practices can also be improved to ensure that your cat does not develop a urinary tract infection. Always ensure a steady and clean supply of water. Cats should have a diet consisting of low carbohydrates, as carbohydrates break down into sugars, creating a bladder environment conducive for bacterial overgrowth. The cat’s litter box should be cleaned regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria that can transfer to your pet. Best of all, keep yourself properly informed on developments in pet care to keep abreast of the best way to care for your pet.

HERBS VS. DRUGS FOR PAIN RELIEF

Joint pain relief is one of the biggest challenges for people who have arthritis or aching joints. Side effects of prescription drugs have proven to be so dangerous that some drugs have even been withdrawn from the market. Natural pain relievers, however, offer arthritis pain relief that is comparable to that of drugs, with the advantage of having little or no negative side effects.

RESEARCH IN COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

The national medical database in complementary and alternative medicine at PubMed (U.S. National Institutes of Health) lists more than 6,000 research articles on arthritis. Hundreds of herbs worldwide have been discovered to relieve the pain of inflammation. Very few of these, however, have yet to become available to the public.

Some of the more widely known anti-inflammatory herbs that are generally available as supplements include turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ginger (Zingiber officinale), both of which are in the ginger family, Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata), Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), and white willow (Salix alba). The best one, however, continues to be under the radar – i.e., the creosote bush (Larrea tridentata). Research over the past few decades shows that the antioxidant-rich leaf resin of this plant contains unique ingredients that inhibit enzymes in the inflammatory pathway that causes pain.

MOTHER NATURE’S PAIN RELIEVER

I have to admit my bias in favor of the creosote bush. I have been doing research on the natural products chemistry of this species for more than 35 years, first as a graduate student and then as a professor. My interest began when I had a conversation with an old rancher in Arizona who told me that the creosote bush was the best herb he ever found for treating his horses for joint pain. All he had to do was make a poultice from leaves and young stems, strap it directly onto the inflamed joint, and watch the inflammation go down.

Since then I have come to admire the creosote bush’s rich folk medical history among native people in the deserts of the U.S. southwest and adjacent Mexico. Folk medical uses of the creosote bush have paved the way for modern research. Scientific studies confirm what non-scientists have known for centuries. Unique ingredients of the creosote bush bolster this plant’s anti-inflammatory power and ability to relieve pain.

HOW TO USE THE CREOSOTE BUSH FOR PAIN RELIEF

The simplest method is to apply an old-fashioned poultice. Warm and moisten a handful of leaves and young stems, then put them directly onto the painful joint. Hold the whole thing in place with a bandage. Change every 12 hours. This technique, of course, requires that you have a source of fresh creosote bush leaves. If you live in the southwestern U.S., the plant will be easy to find, because it is the most common shrub in the three main deserts of west Texas/New Mexico (Chihuahuan Desert), Arizona (Sonoran Desert), and California (Mojave Desert).

A more practical method for people who do not live in the native habitat of the creosote bush, and even for most people who do, is to use a preparation that is already designed for topical use. This kind of preparation may be a little difficult to find, since most health stores do not carry it. Nevertheless, a quick internet search should yield some good possibilities.

WHO IS USING CREOSOTE BUSH NOW?

At the moment, topical preparations have become especially popular among golfers who suffer hand or elbow pain. In my own experience, the slight pain that I used to have in my left hand was a distraction for me when I played golf. Application of a creosote bush spray preparation directly onto the painful joint eliminated that distraction (and took away a great excuse for a bad shot!). A handful of professional athletes in baseball, football, and basketball have also benefitted from creosote bush treatments of sore ankles, knees, elbows, and shoulders. This herb will certainly become more popular for treating joint pain as successful stories such as these become better known.

The authors, Velma J. Keith and Monteen Gordon, have done a great job of providing concise and extensive information on th71 herbs, 38 vitamins and minerals, and 175 of the most common ailments for women, children and families.

The herb section includes for each herb: classification, a brief description and an extensive list of the most common uses. Pages on vitamins and minerals cover the positive effects and explain in detail why each substance is needed and what can happen if the body becomes deficient. Also stated is toxicity, enemies, natural food sources and all of the herbs included in the book which contain the nutrient being discussed.

Over 150 conditions and ailments are addressed with treatment options for herbs, herbal combinations, diet changes and/or exercise. Several pages are devoted to helping the reader to understand the need and the methods for cleansing. Also included are a few specialized chapters focusing on women, infants and children and last, but definitely not least, is a chapter with herbal preparations and recipes. The authors give directions on how to make infusions, decoctions, compresses (fomentation), extracts, tinctures, oils, ointments, bolus, capsules, poultices, baths, syrups, plasters, packs and salves.

Finally, this book is very well formatted and organized. It was very easy to read and has a very comprehensive Table of Contents and Index which makes it very easy to find your treatment or herbal fix at a glance.

I am very pleased with my recent acquisition. I would recommend The How To Herb Book (Mayfield Publications ISBN 0-9617825-0-1) to all herbal enthusiasts. A great anchor book for the beginning herbal patron and a much needed addition to complete the serious herbalist’s library.

I am a retired statistical database designer and stay-at-home mom with 3 children. I enjoy learning about the complexities of nutrition and nature with respect for God’s master design. My goal is to uncover the mysteries of optimum health and share them with family, friends and others with similar desires. I currently review products and publish articles for the Bulk Herb Store

Boswellia serrata in the biological name of the very renowned ayurvedic herb known as shallaki. Shallaki is more commonly known as salai guggulu in Indian native language as it possesses similar properties as of guggulu (commiphora mukul).

It has a medium height tree with a girth of about 3 – 5 ft. it possess trunk, which is reddish green in appearance with a pleasant aroma. Possess small leaves similar to that of a neem tree. Small white colored flowers that blossom in winder season i.e. in January to march. Fruit is triangular in appearance and is about one and a half inch in diameter. Which fruits in February to march. There is resin that comes out of the tree hence it is used for medication purposes. Plant is found in middle and western part of India

The herb is ushan virya in potency so it acts on all the vata disorders. More over it possess kashaya, tickt and madhur rasa that makes it kapha suppressant. Therefore shallaki possess the qualities, which suppress the disorders created by vata and kapha dosha. It contains triterpenoids called boswellic acid

Indication of shallaki

· Due to presence of ushan virya potency it is supposed to suppress vata thereby helps in relieving pain, as vata is cause behind every pain.

· It works as anti inflammatory substance which is helpful in curbing any kind of swelling and pain due to presence of boswellic acid.

· Shallaki is indicated in arthritic problems like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and joint pains, skeletal muscle pain.

· It is also indicated in lymphadenopathy and back pain.

· Boswellic acid also aid this plant in reducing any tumors.

· This herb also possess anti cancerous properties.

· It works in eliminating nay foul odor .

· It also acts in eliminating any pest in the surroundings.

· It is very commonly used as wound healer herb and used on any kind of injury to make it heal faster in efficiently.

· A well known herb for increasing vision of eyes.

· It is very commonly used in increasing the intelligence levels and increasing mental concentration therefore helps in toning up of brain.

· It is very helpful in indigestion, constipation, tastelessness, intestinal disturbance and stomach disorders.

· It helps in dissolving away with the toxin name ama formed in our body.

· It is very helpful in diarrhea and dysentery condition.

· It helps in proper functioning of liver and its secretions i.e. bile juices.

· It is considered one of the best mouth freshener and increases the functioning of taste buds to normalcy.

· This herb has proved its worth in heart related ailments.

· A wonderful herb which work as an expectorant and helps in eradicating extra mucus in the respiratory tract.

· Shallaki also helps in fighting against the urinary tract infections. Also works as diuretic.

· It also acts as aphrodisiac agent thereby helping in increasing the sperm count and quality.

A single herb and so many uses makes shallaki one of the best herb which ayurvedic doctors had discovered centuries back to make people relieved from the suffering the they are suffering.

Know more about Boswellia Serrata, Shallaki Benefits, Supplements, Extract for Joint Pain, Arthritis, Anti-Inflammatory by visiting http://www.morphemeremedies.com

Shilajit is one the important Ayurvedic compounds that rejuvenates the body. Shilajit is believe to be first discovered in Modern times by British Explorer Sir Martin Edward Stanley during 1870 –the time when India and Nepal were part of the British Empire. It contains more than 85 minerals in ionic form and the active principle fulvic acid, humic acid, hippuric acid and benzopyrones. It is used to treat diabetes and various urinary problems. When combined with other herbs it enhances its effect.

It is believed to have beneficial effects on the kidneys, urinary system and reproductive organs. It is considered as an aphrodisiac that is used in the treatment of impotency and infertility of both men and women. In Sanskrit shilajit means ‘feel like rock’ as it has the power of a rock to reverse the process of aging. The Indian and ancient Chinese literature mentioned shilajit as Amrit and Fountain of Youth. It is widely used by the Indian yogis of Himalayan region to have the stamina and body structure of a youth. The ancient medical literature described shilajit as conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness. It is considered as an anecdote for anxiety and stress. Its regular intake promotes the movement of various minerals like calcium, phosphorus and magnesium into the bones and tissues. The active principle in shilajit fulvic acid regenerates and prolongs the duration of essential nutrients in the cells. Fulvic acid restores electrical balance to damaged cells, neutralizes toxins and eliminates food poisoning in a short duration.

Shilajit prevents the release of histamine in the blood that helps in the prevention of various allergies in the body. Shilajit provides iron to the body that is necessary for the making of red blood cells (RBCs). It also acts as a stimulant for immune system. Shilajit enhances protein and nucleic acid metabolism that acts as a catalyst for the energy proving reactions. It is a strong kidney tonic and is also considered the best for sexual and spiritual power. It is commonly referred to as Indian Viagra. It enhances the effect of nitric oxide to produce as erection in males.

It has beneficial liver protecting effects that balances the cholesterol and sugar levels in the body. It acts as an adaptogenic agent that helps the body to cope with stress causing environment. Therefore, it is also considered as an anti-stress agent.

It improves the functioning of pancreas, increases the blood circulation and strengthens the digestive system. It is also used in the treatment of hypothyroidism as it controls the activity of thyroid gland.

In regional folk medicine, shilajit is a reputed rasayana believed to reverse the process of ageing and prolong life. It is also used to treat various conditions ranging from ulcers and asthma, to diabetes and rheumatism.

Over sixty years of clinical research have shown that shilajit has positive effects on humans. It improves memory and cognitive ability, reduces allergies and respiratory problems, reduces stress, and relieves digestive troubles. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and eliminates free radicals responsible for various health problems in the body. The research proves that shilajit increases immunity, physical strength, and endurance. Its regular intake returns the libido of individuals to the level of teenagers. It increases the live cell counts in the male reproductive system hormones.

In brief it can be said that shilajit is highly beneficial for general body health, strengthening of immune system, arthritis, hypertension, anti-aging, controlling blood sugar levels, improved brain functioning, obesity, bone and tissue healing, kidney problems, urinary tract problems and injury healing.

Shilajit is considered as the main component in ayurvedic medicines that aids the curing of various health problems.

Creating an indoor herb garden is quite an easy task as herbs are inexpensive plants that are easy to maintain and are undemanding. An indoor herb garden can be termed as an introductory course for any beginner to the art of gardening.

Depending on their use, herbs can be classified into culinary herbs, medicinal herbs and aromatic herbs. Culinary herbs include basil, rosemary, parsley and oregano. These herbs are used to add spice and flavor in food. Medicinal herbs include plants like echinacea, valerian, hypericum, gingko and garlic that are widely used in medicinal preparations. Oils from plants like lavender, rose, mint and basil are used for aromatherapies. Most of these plants are not suitable for an indoor herb garden as it is difficult to extract the medicinal parts of the plant. Ornamental herbs are those that are grown to enhance the beauty of homes.

You can start with herbs like oregano, rosemary, garlic chives, mint and thyme. You can either buy these plants at a garden center or can use stem cuttings. Containers are useful for growing herbs at home as these are easy to carry and are convenient for adjusting soil mixtures. These containers are available in different colors, thus creating an added attraction. You can also start an indoor herb garden from the seed level. Heavy clay or terra cotta pots are preferred as these pots facilitate good circulation of air and water.

You can have a beautiful indoor herb garden if you follow certain tips. Soilless mixture of vermiculite, peat and perlite ensures proper growth of seeds and seedlings. Keeping pots in the southern or western window ensures proper sunlight and air. Soil in the containers and pots should be moist but not damp. Pots should be kept in shady regions during summers. Humidity around indoor plants can be increased if they are grouped together.

The uva ursi herb is a little known herb derived from leaves. This is not some far away ingredient which can only be acquired if you know someone that lives in the middle of the Amazon Rain Forest. No, it has been a main stay in homeopathic medicine, both for two legged and four legged animals for hundreds of years.

The uva ursi herb is a tonic that some natural health experts equate its urinary tract benefits to those of cranberry juice. This is a fair comparison but it should be added that the uva ursi herb also has an antiseptic quality that makes it particularly effective when used in the treatment chronic urinary tract infections. In one recent study involving 57 people with were experiencing recurrent bladder infections, 80% showed positive results. While the above study was comprised of people not pets the uva ursi herb has been shown to produce equally good results in pets.

Uva ursi is generally categorized as a urinary tonic and if often referred to as bearberry. Besides possessing antiseptic qualities it also works naturally to strengthen urinary membranes and balance urine pH levels. Balancing urine pH levels is an important part of urinary tract health in pets. Research has shown that out of balance urine pH level are one of the primary caused of kidney and bladder stones.

Arbutin has been isolated as the main active constituent in uva ursi herb. Other active constituents are ursolic acid, and allantoin. These components are just a few of the chemicals responsible for the uva ursi’s herbs impressive results.

While we are focusing on UTI prevention in pets it should also be pointed out that uva ursi’s diuretic properties may also prove helpful in reducing your pet’s blood pressure.

What next? Gather more information about natural homeopathic remedies for pet UTI’s containing this natural tonic to determine whether either homeopathy or uva ursi is right for your unique situation. The beauty of most natural remedies options, such as homeopathy, is that they can be used a stand alone treatment or in addition to many conventional treatment options. This may be one of the reasons why natural alternative pet remedies have been gaining in popularity over the last few years.

Lauren Rosenstadt was a single mom working at a herb company in Bethesda, Maryland. A herb (pronounced “erb”) is a plant that has medicinal, savory, or aromic qualities. One day while at lunch with a friend whose daughter suffered from insomnia, Lauren thought, “If I could fill a pillow with herbs, that would be soothing and help my friend’s daughter sleep.”

A few days later, Sydney Greensheep, a pillow shaped like a sheep and filled with dried herbs, was completed. Lauren gave Sydney to her friend to try with her daughter. The next morning her friend reported, “It’s unbelievable, she slept like a baby!”

Insomnia is epidemic in our fast-pased American lifestyle. 40-50% of Americans complain of occasional bouts with insomnia. 10-15 percent of the US population suffers from chronic insomnia. Every year, as many as 10 million Americans seek a physician’s help for sleep disorders. As many as 10,000 automobile accident deaths each year are the result of someone falling asleep at the wheel.

Lauren showed Sydney to her boss, who was impressed enough to provide her with space in the company’s booth at a trade show. Many trade show visitors liked the herb stuffed pillow idea, and by the end of the show, Lauren had orders for over 100 pillows.

Lauren hired a seamstress to sew the sheep-shaped pillows. Then, she stuffed them herself. The trade show buyers put the pillows on display in their shops, and within days they all sold for between $18.00 and $22.00 each.

Encouraged by these results, Lauren sent samples to department stores and specialty shops. Orders started rolling in. To sew the pillows, she enlisted small home business sewers. It was hard work to deliver bolts of fabric and 40 pound bags of filling to their homes. Within the first year, she grossed over half a million dollars.

Now, Lauren’s Herbal Animals can be found in over 750 body care, gift and natural living shops worldwide. Lauren’s company employs 13 people and has revenue of over a million dollars a year.

It’s interesting to note that Lauren Rosenstadt didn’t start out as a hobby seamstress or craft person. She was a person who used her insight to help a friend confort her daughter. After recognizing an opportunity, Lauren didn’t let up. She did the thinking and the work necessary to achieve success.

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is in the daisy family of botanical plants. The oil is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves and it comes today from France, the Netherlands, Hungary and the U.S. The name is thought to come from an ancient use as an antidote to the bites of venomous creatures and ‘Madd dogges’. Tarragon is a perennial herb with smooth narrow leaves. It has an erect stem up to four feet high and puts out small yellowy-green flowers. Tarragon has a distinctive sweet anise, spicy flavor and is usually used as an herb to flavor fish and chicken and to make tarragon vinegar.

Traditionally the Maharajahs of India favored this herb and in Persia it was used to induce appetite. It was also used for digestive and menstrual irregularities and the root was used as a remedy for toothache.

How Can We Use Tarragon Essential Oil for our Health Today?

Tarragon has antiseptic, antispasmodic properties. It is good for digestion. Tarragon oil stimulates the appetite and has a pronounced effect on the sluggish digestive system. It can be helpful for anorexia, indigestion, flatulence, hiccups, internal spasm and nervous indigestion, as well as helpful for menstrual pains and to regulate periods. Tarragon can be diluted 50-50 and applied on location, on the chakras/vita flex points or taken internally. It blends well with labdanum, galbanum, lavender, pine and basil. As for safety, tarragon is moderately toxic due to its content of estragole (methy chavicol). It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing. This oil is best avoided for epileptics.

Want to know more about essential oils and how they can help us stay healthy? Consider becoming a certified clinical aromatherapist. The Institute of Spiritual Healing and Aromatherapy teaches classes throughout the United States on aromatherapy and energy healing.

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