Promotions for Distributors May and June 2011

1. Register 2 new partners via purchase of the Welcome Pack and you’ll receive 1 complimentary bottle of Alveo (flavor of choice).
2. Register 3 new partners via purchase of the Welcome Pack and you’ll receive 2 complimentary bottles of Alveo (flavor of choice).
3. Register 4 new partners via purchase of the Welcome Pack and you’ll receive 4 complimentary bottles of Alveo (flavor of choice).
4. Register 1 new partner via purchase of the Gold Pack and you’ll receive 4 complimentary bottles of Alveo (flavor of choice).

A shipping charge of $13.00 will be applied to all of the above.

Please note that you will not receive any points for any complimentary bottles of Alveo.

Offer valid through May 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011 or while supplies last.  Akuna reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue this promotion at any time.  Additional terms and conditions may apply.

To register with Akuna visit my website www.totalalveo.com

 

Until next time…stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Seasonal and perennial allergies (Part 1)

Spring and summer bring a lot of energy and optimism.  However, for some people, it is the time they dread the most.  Why?  Because they suffer from allergies that can make each day an ordeal.

Signs and symptoms

• Runny, itchy, and stuffy nose with generally thin and clear discharge
• Sneezing
• Red, itchy, and watery eyes; eyelids may swell up
• Itchy mouth, throat, ears, and face
• Sore throat and dry cough
• Buzzing in the ears (called tinnitus)
• Headaches
• Partial loss of senses of hearing, smell, and taste
• Fatigue
• Dark circles under eyes

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (commonly called hay fever) is an allergic reaction that can affect nose, roof of the mouth, back of the throat and conjunctiva (whites of the eyes).  The name “hay fever” is misleading because hay is rarely the trigger and a fever is never present.

In the early 1800s, British doctors noticed that some rural residents started sneezing, coughing and got itchy eyes after being exposed to cut hay or grass.  Today we know that seasonal pollens and molds can set off these symptoms.  They called the condition a “fever” because it caused nervousness, one of the old English definitions of fever.

Perennial allergic rhinitis is a reaction that involves mostly the nasal tissue and it can occur at anytime throughout the year.

Causes

Normally, our immune system fights off foreign substances (commonly called antigens).  The immune system of some people is hypersensitive and can overreact to certain antigens that are harmless to most people.  This over-reaction triggers an allergic reaction.

The first exposure to the antigen (in an allergic reaction it is called allergen) usually does not cause any symptoms but the person gets sensitized, so that every subsequent encounter with the allergen triggers a release of the body’s own chemical substances (such as histamine) that initiate and inflammatory response in a particular part of the body.

Allergies have become increasingly common in the development countries and as research suggests, this is paradoxically due to the wide use of mainly antibiotics and household disinfectants.  Development of a healthy immune system requires some exposure to bacteria, viruses and parasites and since we get less and less exposed to them, our immune system may instead react to harmless substances such as pollen and mold and thus activate an allergic reaction.

In seasonal rhinitis, allergens causing inflammation of the nose, throat and eyes are outdoor pollens (from tree, grass, ragweed), spores and molds that are carried on the wind during certain times of the year, hence seasonal rhinitis.  People may react to one or more allergens.

Indoor allergens, such as animal dander, dust mites, and molds/spores (found in carpeting, wallpaper, house plants) trigger allergic reaction all year around, hence perennial rhinitis.

 

To be continued…

 

Until next time…stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Important message about NEW Compensation Plan!

In recent months Akuna has been working long and hard to make significant improvements that would drive your business, allow you to further develop and grow your organization, and of course, maximize your profits.

It is Akuna’s pleasure to introduce some exciting changes for Akuna Canada /USA Inc. effective as of this February 2011:

1.  Prices of all products have been reduced by 25% (of retail cost)!

• A case of Alveo has been reduced from $240.00 to $180.00.
• A case of Onyx Plus has been reduced from $160.00 to $120.00.
• A set of Take a Plaster has been reduced from $88.00 to $75.00.

2.  New discount system has been introduced:

• 140 – 420 points = 20% discount
• 421 – 1400 points = 25% discount
• 1401 points – more = 30% discount

3.  New Welcome Pack has been introduced

4.  New Gold Pack has been introduced

5.  New bonuses and exciting incentives for all distributors!

6.  Simplified ways to become a Leader faster!

7.  New bonus price is now $0.4125 per point.

Akuna hopes that these changes will serve as tools to help you effectively expand your independent Akuna business.

You may download  New Compensation Plan 2011. 

 

Until next time…stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Common Cold and Flu (Part 2)

And what about chicken soup, you ask? 

The suspected benefits of chicken soup have been reported for centuries.  The Egyptian physician Maimonides recommended it for respiratory symptoms in his 12th century writings that were, in turn, based on earlier Greek writings.  And, of course, mothers all over the world have said it time and time again.

University of Nebraska researcher, Dr. Stephen Rennard, became interested in the subject, and in 1993, he conducted a well-controlled research study on chicken soup that he prepared in the laboratory following his family’s recipe.  He was not able to identify the exact ingredients or ingredients in the soup that he prepared in the laboratory following his family’s recipe.  He was not able to identify the exact ingredient or ingredients in the soup that made it effective but concluded that it was the combination of all the vegetables and the chicken soup that made it so beneficial. 

The study also presented evidence that chicken soup can stop or reduce inflammation.  Since inflammation, particularly of the respiratory tract, contributes to cold/flu symptoms, the soup clearly has its benefits.  For comparison purposes, commercially available chicken soups were tested for anti-inflammatory effects, and most of the soups were just as effective as the homemade chicken soup.

There are also many herbs, which are recommended for both conditions.  Some boost the immune system, some suppress cough, and yet other reduce fever.  Since all herbs contain active substances that may interact with other herbs, supplements or medications, or trigger side effects, it is advisable to consult a knowledgeable practitioner in this field.  Here some of the herbs used to treat cold/flu that are also found in Alveo: Licorice, Peppermint, and Yarrow.

Similarly, dietary supplements (such as vitamins, minerals and others) may interact with medications or have various side effects; therefore, a consultation with a knowledgeable health provider is advised.  Despite a popular belief that vitamin C can cure a cold/flu, the scientific evidence in support of this, is limited.  Some experts suggest that vitamin C may only be beneficial for individuals with already low levels of this supplement.  Others suggest that the effect of vitamin C may be very individual – some people may improve, while others may not. 

Several studies, but not all, have revealed that zinc lozenges and nasal zinc gels may reduce some symptoms of cold and flu, cough in particular.  However, nasal zinc spray does not appear to have the same benefits.

Prevention

Even though everybody gets cold/flu from time to time, there are preventive measures one can take.  The best defense is frequent hand washing.  Scrubbing your hands for at least 15 seconds with the ordinary soap and water is the most efficient way to prevent viruses from entering the body.  Remember: telephones, doorknobs, shopping cart handles and computer keyboards, are well known carriers of germs!  And of course, a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate rest and reduction of stress are all essential I building a strong immune system.

Alveo Can Help!

One of the reasons our body needs food supplements is the quality of food in our stores and markets.  Most of our food, if not all, is mass-produced, meaning it is produced with the use of pesticides, colorants and additives.  It often has decreased nutritional value.  Since food is essential in keeping our organs and body systems working properly, we need to add supplements to our diets to meet nutritional requirements and to keep our bodies strong and resilient.

In order to get all nutrients to our organs, our digestive system must absorb them well.  Alveo is an excellent digestive tonic and as such, helps in the gastrointestinal absorption by stimulating digestive enzyme production.  The herbs found in Alveo also have anti-inflammatory properties in the gastrointestinal tract.  When our organs are well-nourished and function properly, we are much more prepared to face the fall and winter seasons.

Until next time…Stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Onyx Plus launched in Canada

Akuna is pleased to inform you that Onyx Plus has been launched in Canada.

Onyx Plus t is an advanced-formula multi-mineral supplement that delivers essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and zinc in a liquid form that is easy for the body to absorb, process and utilize. The minerals in Onyx Plus will strengthen your bones and immune system and reduce the risks of illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and kidney disease.

To celebrate the launch of Onyx Plus on the Canadian market, Akuna has created three special offers, valid in both Canada and the USA.

For more information click  Onyx Plus now available in Canada

Until next time…Stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Common Cold and Flu (Part 1)

Fall and winter are upon us once again, and with them the most common illnesses of the season: the cold and the flu.  People often use the terms cold and flu interchangeably; however, these are two separate conditions.

The common cold is an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus.  It is usually not accompanied by a fever but it does affect the nose, sinuses, throat, larynx, and often also the trachea and bronchi.

Influenza, or flu (grippe, grip), is also a viral infection affecting the respiratory tract but in addition is accompanied by fever, general malaise, headache, muscle pain, stomach pain and such.  In severe cases, it may even result in death.

 

Causes

There are over 200 different types of viruses which can cause a cold.  Most commonly, you can get a cold by touching your nose, eyes or mouth after handling a contaminated object.  However, cold-causing viruses can also be transmitted through the air.  Exposure to chilly outdoor air will not make you more susceptible to get a cold as is often believed, on the other hand, emotional distress and excessive fatigue actually may.  On average, an adult may experience between 3-6 colds in a year, while a child may have as many as 8-10.

Many different types of influenza viruses belonging to either Influenza A or B groups may cause the flu.  The flu is very contagious and spreads easily from person-to-person (e.g. through handshakes or the sharing of utensils) or via air droplets (containing a virus) that contaminate objects.  Flu epidemics often occur about every x number of years and usually affect the entire country; occasionally (about once per decade), the flu spreads across all continents.

 

Signs and Symptoms

Cold:

• Sneezing and runny nose
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Possible fever ( 39C or lower)
• Headache

Flu:

• Sudden fever (up to 40C)
• Fatigue, chills, headache
• Muscle aches
• Sneezing, runny and stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Nonproductive cough
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

 

Treatments

Conventional medicines, herbs, supplements and other forms of treatment can only help in alleviating the symptoms of both, the cold and the flu, but cannot treat or cure either condition.

The following is recommended for both the flu and cold:

• Drink a lot of water and other fluids – water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey will help loosen congestion and prevent dehydration
• Salt water – a salt-water gargle (1/2 teaspoon salt in 250 ml of warm water) can relieve a sore throat
• Saline nasal sprays – will help you combat stuffiness and congestion.  Unlike decongestants, saline sprays don’t lead to a rebound effect – a worsening of symptoms when the medication is discontinued.  They are safe and nonirritating, even for children.  

 

To be continued…

Until next time…Stay healthy

 

Katarzyna

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Alveo for Health and Prevention against Disease

Alveo should be a basic part of our preventive health program against majority of diseases and premature aging.

Alveo improves the function of Central Nervous System (CNS) by supporting blood circulation and the nutritional requirements of the brain.  It also improves the activity of neurontransmitters (chemicals which help to transmit nerve impulses), and has a calming effect.  The extracts that have the greatest effect in this area are ginkgo biloba, gotu kola, lavender, passionflower and blessed thistle.  The result is an improved memory, better concentration, an improved ability to adapt one’s mood (and in avoiding depressive moods), and deeper sleep.  CNS functions are important to support because the brain creates hormones that affect every other organ in the body. 

A healthy brain usually means a healthy body.  Alveo harmonizes the hormonal system by providing prohormones of phytosterol, plant hormones that activate your natural metabolism by working on the endocrine glands.  The main extracts utilized in this area are red clover, licorice, and alfalfa, as well as several others.  They are important to menstrual regularity, fertility in both genders and for moderating the symptoms of menopause.  These extracts also help to regulate blood sugar levels, helping to prevent diabetes and obesity.

Alveo also harmonizes the function of the immune system by adapting the capacity and mucous membranes of the alimentary tract, harmonizing the microbes in the large intestine and by boosting the Peyers patches; the cells of the immune system that surround the small intestine.  It helps food move through the intestines and has anti-inflammatory effects on the intestinal wall.  Baradykinase from aloe, tannins, pectins, chlorophyll and antibiotic substances are those parts of Alveo that are active here.  

Alveo helps the hormonal system create estrogen – an essential hormone even for men.  It also increases our resistance to stress by boosting the immune system and has detoxicative and diuretic effects that facilitate the function of the liver and kidneys.

Extracts from gingko biloba, licorice and alfalfa lead the way in fighting off autoimmune diseases (diseases where the body has an immune response to itself) such as psoriasis.  Extracts from Siberian ginseng, gingko biloba, red clover, licorice, horsetail, Chinese fo-ti-tieng, alfalfa and Korean ginseng also have a positive influence on the prevention of oncogenous diseases.

Alveo ensures the efficiency of vitamins in fighting increased levels of homocystein because by working on hormones it regulates the enzymes and the substances from which an organism creates these enzymes.   Alveo therefore operates at the earliest stages of the defect development, compared to most of today’s pharmaceutical products; which try to fix problem once it has already become major.

Alveo positively influences the activity of the digestive tract by improving the appetite and optimizing the amount and composition of the digestive system and biliary juices (in particular, decreasing the growth of the Helicobacter pylori using Irish moss extract, and thereby preventing ulcerative disorders of the stomach and the small intestine).  It also supports the activity and enzymatic set of the liver (this is where the organ sulphides and bitter extracts from the blessed thistle and yellow genitian come in), and by assisting the adaptation of enteric micro-flora, which provide anti-bacterial, anti-virus and anti-fungal effects, especially in the large intestine and the regulation of bowel movement (through extracts from aloe, licorice, red clover and thyme).

Alveo harmonizes blood circulation by improving heart activity (by utilizing Siberian ginseng, Korean ginseng, alfalfa, lavender, gotu kola and passionflower), improving blood clotting ability, expanding the blood vessels from the coronares to the capillaries (gingko biloba, cayenne and cinnamon operate here) and accelerating blood circulation.   In addition, Alveo supports blood cell creation because the immune system becomes more harmonized with the cytokine set-the cells which destroy alien proteins in the blood.

Alveo  stimulates and protects the respiratory system: it positively influences the depth and frequency of the breath (using yarrow and cayenne); and commensurate with your present condition it may moisten the airways and release mucus, Alveo aids the airways in their expansion and contraction, stimulating expulsion (blessed thistle, horsetail, fennel seed, licorice, Irish moss) and at the same time calming a dry cough (boneset and thyme).  By virtue of its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects.   Alveo leads to the prevention of diseases of the respiratory system.

Alveo harmonizes the musculoskeletal system: it releases tension in the muscles (ginseng, passionflower and guarana) and strengthens muscles that are flaccid and weakened.  By regulating muscle tension, it helps to protect ligaments and bones from stress due to contracted muscles (using Chinese fo-ti-tieng, cardamom and gotu kola).  It also improves the quality of articular cartilage – the anti-inflammatory effects from the extracts can assist in the prevention of rheumatism and arthritis, which are often a result from inflamed joint cartilage.

 

Until next time…Stay healthy

 

Katarzyna

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Cleaning the organism by Dr. Sohrab Khoshbin (Part 1)

“We have to treat the causes of illnesses by cleaning and balancing our organism” – Dr. Sohrab Khoshbin

There are several organs that expulse invading toxins from our remarkable organism – the human body.  The most important role in this process belongs to the liver, which is responsible for all chemical activity in the body. In particular it is active in the processing of digested food.  The liver makes the most serious “decisions” in food absorption.  The most significant and remarkable organ has the capability to regenerate itself. I f we only had half of our liver, it would still be capable of performing all its function.

Liver has a very important role in our organism:

•  Deprives the organism of toxic substances as well as from adverse fat in fried and chemically processed foods
•  Fulfills 24 regular tasks
•  The emotions such as anger, irritation or stress have a negative impact on liver activity

The other very important organ is the intestine, which escorts waste (the mass of sediments) from our body.  Our health depends, among other things, on regular elimination.  If sediments stay too long in our intestines, toxins are being created.  After time they get into our bloodstream which results in the poisoning of the organism.  This can lead to various illnesses such as migraine headaches or even cancer.

The kidneys also play an important role for toxin removal (in liquid form).  In Chinese medicine, the kidney is called “essence of life” which suggests our vital energy originates from this organ.  We can view the entire state of our organism functioning on the surface of our skin.  Skin blemishes and irregularities indicate that there are problems with digestion and toxicity.  Almost all skin illnesses originate from inside our organism and are signaled by various inflammations and eczemas.

The face is particularly revealing about our state of health.  Skin disorders on the upper lip give information about current stomach conditions and the lower lip points to adversities and intestines.  Blemishes found between the eyes alert to adverse conditions of the liver and stomach; if found on the tip of the nose, it can signal a heart problem.  The eyes are considered to be a reflection of the state of health of the body.

On the basis of iris research, many illnesses can be diagnosed, even in their initial stage before any symptoms are known.  The clarity of the eyes reveals the condition of the liver; if they are congested it means the liver is stressed with toxins.  If there are corners of the eye filled with veins it points to the heart being in less than optimum health.  If crusts appear in the corner of the eyes, it indicates that the liver is attempting to get rid of excessive amounts of fat.

It is necessary to observe the organism attentively because it informs us about all illnesses and balances disturbances so treatment can be administrated early before any serious damage occurs.  A traditional treatment of illnesses often depends on a successful elimination of symptoms.  This is only the suppression of the illness from an outside observance and only good for a short time period.  As the cause of illness is not clearly understood, it is difficult to be cured.  Ailments will continue and often in an intensive form.  It is necessary to look for a treat the cause and not only eliminate the effects.

As we know, the majority of civilization illnesses are the result of an improper way of life and excessive quantities of toxins in the organism; and to treat only the symptoms will never provide good results.  Alveo is an ideal herbal product that helps prevent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

There are two kinds of Alveo: peppermint and grape.  Aside from being different flavors, there is no difference between the two.  Each will clean and nourish our organism, creating a balance.  Both of them contain the same herbs.  The Peppermint Alveo is better for people who have stomach problems, especially for those that suffer from an abnormal production of acids.  The juice from grapes could have stimulating affects; while the peppermint in an alleviative.

The causes of imbalances in the organism:

•  Hypoxia of particular organs
•  Environmental pollution
•  Consumption of processed food containing chemical substances
•  Toxic compounds in our organism
•  Overeating
•  Insufficient physical activity
•  Shortage of vitamins and minerals
•  Stress, intensity and concern
•  Inability to relax

Alveo prevents illness and keeps the organism healthy because:

•  It is natural
•  Acts positively for the gastrointestinal tract (Siberian Ginseng, Alfalfa)
•  Supports digestion processes and the absorption of nutrients (Cardamom, Passionflower, Peppermint)

 

To be continued…

 

Until next time…Stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Herbs in Alveo (Part 4)

ROSEHIPS
Rosa canina
Rosehips are one of the most natural and freely available sources of vitamin C, as well as containing other important vitamins, minerals and trace elements.  Its richness in vitamin C makes it especially attractive in the fight against infections, sore throat and as a preventive measure against colds.  Traditionally recommends for urinary tract infections, rheumatism, gout, kidney disease, water retention and sciatica, as well as a general aid against exhaustion. Rosehips have a mild laxative and slight diuretic quality.

 

 

 

SIBERIAN GINSENG
Eleutherococcus senticosus
Used in China for over 5000 years, Siberian ginseng has been used as a cure-all for a wide variety of ills.  It is one of the best herbs for the heart and vascular system, increasing blood flow to the heart and lowering blood pressure.  World famous athletes seek out this superior herb for all its restorative and regenerative abilities.  When used regularly, Siberian ginseng helps to regulate and harmonize the entire body by increasing the entire body’s energy and healing abilities.  In Asia, Siberian ginseng is generally accepted treatment in the care of those who have undergone surgery, severe illness, and exhaustion. It helps to prevent a wide variety of debilitating conditions such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease, and it also has the ability to normalize blood pressure.

 

 

THYME
Thymus vulgaris
Used from the middle ages onward for its medicinal properties, thyme’s antispasmodic and expectorant properties have been relied upon to treat chronic bronchitis (helping to loosen phlegm and combat bronchial spasm), bronchial asthma, reducing hay fever, chronic gastritis and digestive disorders.  As an antiseptic and antibacterial, thyme has been used in the treatment of inflamed sinuses, nose, throat, and larynx, and has a history as a remedy for whooping cough.

 

 

 

WILD CHERRY
Prunus serotina
Generally used as a pain reliever, wild cherry’s most popular claim to fame is that this herb is well known to break down and expel kidney stones.  Wild cherry contains beta carotene and vitamin A.  Long valued as a treatment against colds, coughs, and diarrhea, it is also used in the treatment of lung ailments, in particular, the treatment of whooping cough, bronchitis, pneumonia and other similar disorders.  Herbalists today recommend wild cherry for respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds and bronchitis, and consider it effective for calming effect, relieving anxiety, stress and sleeplessness.

 

 

 

YARROW
Achillea millefolium
Used since medieval times, yarrow was looked upon as a headache cure, its anti-inflammatory properties seeming to have the ability to reduce headaches and blood clotting.  Yarrow has been one of the most popular treatments for arthritis and related conditions, alleviating painful inflammation of tissues and joints.  Historically it has also been used to fight bacterial invasion and treat wounds.  Yarrow has also been used to soothe and quiet the digestive system.  Because of the substances contained in yarrow, a feeling of peace and relaxation have been known to be replicated thus making it effective in treating sleeping disorders.  This also makes yarrow particularly beneficial in the treatment of some of the effects of menopause.

 

 

YELLOW GENTIAN
Gentiana lutea
Used in the Middle Ages as an antidote for certain poisons and in the treatment of gout and rheumatism, this herb id thought to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.  Said to stimulate the appetite, promote secretion of salivary, gastric, liver, pancreatic and intestinal juices, it accelerates emptying of the stomach and alleviates indigestion, bloating and flatulence.  In its original state, yellow gentian is a very bitter testing herb.  For centuries it has been used to stimulate the gallbladder and pancreas as well as the stomach, improving digestive and liver function.

 

 

 

* Please note that in the United States, Alveo contains American ginseng instead of Asian ginseng.

The information on these pages is intended solely for educational purposes and is not a recommendation by Akuna of any kind.  Akuna and its representatives make no claims as to the ability of herbs and their derivatives to cure or treat any condition.  The herbs contained in Alveo may vary from country to country.

 

Until next time…Stay healthy

Katarzyna

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Herbs in Alveo (Part 3)

HORSETAIL
Equisetum arvense
Horsetail is said to be one of the oldest recorded plants on earth, discovered approximately 600 million years ago.  It is rich in the trace element silica which aids in the absorption of calcium, and is a basic element in the growth and repair of bone and tissue (strengthening bones, hair, nails and teeth).  Herbalists claim it is useful in the repair and regeneration of the damaged connective tissue disorders.  Another long standing use of horsetail has been as mild treatment in the prevention and treatment of kidney stone formation, bacterial and inflammatory disorders of the lower urinary tract, and as a diuretic.  Horsetail has been a traditional treatment for allergies, pulmonary tuberculosis, cystitis, kidney stones, water retention, fevers, eye diseases, gout and rheumatism.

 

 

 IRISH MOSS
Chondrus crispus
Harvested from the water off the European coast, Irish moss is actually a seaweed.  Rich in proteins, iodine and other substances, many herbalists also considers it is excellent “nutritive tonic”, and traditionally it has been prescribed for ulcers, dysentery (infectious diarrhea) and the other gastrointestinal disorders.  Contemporary herbalists consider it a valuable soothing agent (demulcent) for dry coughs, bronchitis, tuberculosis and other upper respiratory tract ailments.  It is also thought to help in the treatment and alleviation of peptic and duodenal ulcers.  Considered to have anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, blood-pressure lowering, and other potentially beneficial properties, Irish moss is also thought to have healing properties beneficial in treating ulcers and other problems relating to the digestive system.

 

 

LAVENDER
Lavandula angustifolia
In an age of extremes lavender is essentially able to produce a balancing and harmonizing effect, by having a pronounced regulating effect on the nervous system.  Stress has long been known to deplete the immune system, and can be the cause, or the precipitating agent, for all types of illness and disease.  With this in mind, lavender is thought to have a restorative effect in cases of a weakened nervous system and have a calming effect on those prone to be stressed or agitated.  For years herbalists have used the calming effects of lavender to treat nervousness, anxiety, worry and depression.  Lavender is used as a symptomatic treatment of stress-related conditions.  It has been used for insomnia, headaches, and immune as well as digestive problems.

 

 

LICORICE
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Long ago, in China, licorice acquired the name of “The Great Detoxifier”.  They believed that continuous consumption of licorice root would help to rid the body of poisons and could contribute to the body’s blood building efforts.  It has since been used in many Chinese prescriptions treating dry coughs and lung disorders, asthma, sore throats, laryngitis, ulcers, as well as inflammation of the urinary and intestinal tracts.  It is sad that licorice root increases vital energy, and that it is able to strengthen digestive and metabolic function.  It is believed that licorice root “harmonizes” the ingredients in an herbal formulation and eliminates any harshness, thus promoting smooth activity of the herbs.  Licorice is useful in the treatment of peptic ulcers, abdominal colic, stomach inflammation, colitis, and has been used as an expectorant in cases of bronchitis.

 

 

KOREAN GINSENG
Panax ginseng
People have long used ginseng in their health practices, claiming it has the power to balance one’s energy.  It appears to have the quality to help regulate and strengthen body functions, improving metabolism, increasing both immune system resistance and respiratory performance.  Extracts from this herb have been used to provide a mental stimulant, thought to improve memory and cognitive power, and many claim that with regular use it can often reverse mental deterioration.  It can also lessen the effects of menopause.  Among its many uses, Panax ginseng is beneficial in treating fatigue, providing increased physical energy, increasing metabolism, fastening recovery from illness and surgery, and empowering its users with an increased alertness and power of concentration, as well as instilling a general sense of well-being and vitality.

 

 

PASSIONFLOWER
Passiflora incarnate
Passionflower has found worldwide acclaim in the reduction of nervous tension, alleviating irritability and anxiety, and lowering blood pressure.  It is also used to promote restful sleep.  As an antispasmodic it has also been successfully used in the treatment of bronchial asthma.  Passionflower has an overall soothing and calming effect over the entire body, offering relief from stress and stress-related headaches and pain.  It has been employed in the treatment of muscle cramps, premenstrual tension, and disturbances often associated with menopause.

 

 

 

RED CLOVER
Trifolium pratense
Red clover is rich in isoflavones, including genistein and biochanin A (an antioxidant which protects against cells aging).  Used as an antibiotic, it has been used in fighting bacterial infections and dealing with kidney and liver diseases.  Over the years it has been tried with some success as a tumor and cancer remedy (for breast and prostate cancer in particular).  Red clover has also been used as a treatment for skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis, as it claims to cleanse the blood.  Herbalists also recommend red clover for reducing uncomfortable menopausal symptoms, and improving overall health, including its use as an expectorant to clear chest congestion caused by coughs, colds, asthma and bronchitis.

 

 

To be continued…

 

Until next time…Stay healthy

Katarzyna

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