Gooseberry is the common name for a small round edible fruit. People use gooseberry fruit to make pies, jellies, and jams. Additionally, some varieties have herbal properties, and people use the plant in Ayurveda and alternative medicine.

Introduction:

There are various types from different regions, including:

• European gooseberry: A green and hairy fruit whose botanical name is Ribes grossularia. It is indigenous to Europe; northwestern Africa; and west, south, and Southeast Asia. People eat European gooseberries in puddings, jams, and pies.
• American gooseberry: A green to purplish fruit that grows naturally in the northeastern and mid-western United States. People commonly plant American gooseberry in fruit or vegetable gardens, and its botanical name is Ribes hirtellum.
• Indian gooseberry (Amla or Emblic fruit): A yellowish-green fruit that grows in India, Southeast Asia, China, Iran, and Pakistan. Its botanical name is Emblica Officinalis.

A nutritious diet

Gooseberries are nutritious fruits, low in calories and fat, and can help someone achieve their daily amount of nutrients as part of a balanced diet.

Additionally, the fiber they contain may help keep a person’s bowel movements regular, allow them to feel full, and maintain their ideal body weight.

Gooseberries contain the following:

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Fiber
• Antioxidants such as phenols and flavinoids

100 grams of gooseberries contain:

Nutrients	Amount (per 100g)
Fiber	4.3 grams (g)
Vit C	27.7 milligrams (mg)
Vitamin A,	15 micrograms (mcg)
Calories	44 kcal

Benefits of Gooseberries:

Good for the hair

A study suggests that Indian gooseberry strengthens hair and promotes growth, noting that people use traditional recipes containing Indian gooseberry for enriching hair growth and pigmentation.

May protect the brain

A study suggests that Indian gooseberry may be beneficial for brain function. The review notes that animal studies demonstrate improved learning and memory with gooseberry extract.

Reduces blood sugar

Scientists have used Indian gooseberry leaves, fruits, and flowers to study their effects on diabetes and they have found that it is beneficial; for controlling elevated blood sugar levels.

Keeps the heart and blood vessels healthy

A small study indicated that 500 mg of Indian gooseberry in concentrated power supplement form daily for 18 weeks improved endothelial function in blood vessels and prevented coronary artery disease.

Anti cancer properties

Indian gooseberry may have potential as an anticancer agent. Laboratory and animal studies indicate that the fruit reduces the incidence and number of tumors at various organ sites.

Rich in antioxidants

Gooseberries contain several antioxidant compounds:

• anthocyanins
• flavonoids
• phenolic acids

This helps in combating several diseases such as:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Neuro-degenerative diseases
• Kidney diseases
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Eye diseases

Safety

Consuming gooseberries as food is generally safe. Toxicological studies do not show adverse effects, even at high doses.

Conclusion:

Gooseberries are a nutritious fruit containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and fiber-rich, helping people to manage their weight.

Scientists have suggested that taking gooseberries may benefit cancer, brain function, and diabetes. In addition, people have used Indian gooseberry traditionally for healthy skin and hair.

People can add gooseberries to their diet or take them as a supplement or beauty product. However, a person should speak with a health practitioner before using herbal remedies, especially if they have a health condition.

Introduction:

Kalmegh is also known as known as andrographis paniculata; it is a seasonal herb native to India and Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular medicinal plants used traditionally for the treatment of diseases such as cold, fever, diabetes, hypertension, ulcer, bronchitis, skin diseases, diarrhea, and malaria. In the Indian system of medicine, Kalmegh is also widely used for its anti-fertility, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-stimulatory properties. 

Health benefits of Kalmegh:

It helps with the common cold

It is believed that taking Andrographis or Kalmegh alone, or as part of an herbal combination product is likely to improve cough and sore throat in some people.

It can ease osteoarthritis

Taking Andrographis or Kalmegh extract daily helps to reduce pain and stiffness in people with mild or moderate osteoarthritis of the knee.

It is loaded with antioxidants

Kalmegh is loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols that may help to fight the harmful free radicals in our body. This, in turn, seems to protect the body cells from harmful bacteria and viruses.

Kalmegh has anti-inflammatory properties

The anti-inflammatory properties of Kalmegh potentially allow the body to fight infections effectively. Moreover, this herb may also help the body to repair tissue damage, and thus proves to be extremely useful. Kalmegh also helps to reduce swelling and pain caused by inflammation in the body.

It aids the digestive system

Kalmegh helps to effectively manage digestive problems like loss of appetite. It may also help to improve the digestive fire as well as liver functions.

It’s a great liver Tonic

Kalmegh also helps in the management of liver problems. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and liver protective properties, and may help to prevent the damage of liver cells caused by free radicals.

Kills intestinal worms

It is believed that Kalmegh helps in killing intestinal worms and supporting good intestinal health.

It has anti-acne properties:

Kalmegh also helps to treat skin ailments with its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Loaded with antioxidants, Kalmegh also helps in fighting harmful free radicals that are responsible for various health and skin ailments.

Antibacterial properties

The anti-bacterial properties in Kalmegh may allow the body to fight bacterial infections. Although Kalmegh appears to have weak direct antibacterial action, it may possibly have beneficial effects in reducing diarrhea and symptoms arising from bacterial infections.

Anti diabetic properties:

Andrographolide in Kalmegh helps reduce blood glucose levels. It may help in the release of insulin from the pancreatic cells, thus promoting the utilization of glucose. Since it is loaded with antioxidants, Kalmegh may also help in lowering the risk of diabetic complications.

Detox and skin cleansing

Studies suggest Kalmegh has blood purifying properties. It may help remove toxins from the blood, and manage skin diseases.

Antiviral properties

Studies suggest that Andrographolide in Kalmegh has antiviral properties. In fact, China mandated the use of andrographis by all doctors to overcome corona virus

Conclusion:

Today, Kalmegh is used all over the world. The plant still grows natively in India and is useful for more than just immune support. The dry and penetrating properties of the herb help to loosen the dense phlegm caused by increased kapha, and it also reduces pitta and kapha in the head and chest, helping to maintain a normal body temperature.

In addition, it potentially promotes a healthy respiratory tract, sinuses and throat, and may also be used externally to help balance excess pitta in the skin that causes skin ailments. A final word of caution, please consult your healthcare provider before using Kalmegh in any form.

Introduction:

Lajwanti is a perennial plant. Its roots, leaves, and seeds have been used in Ayurveda since ancient times to cure many diseases. It is a very popular plant as it completely shrinks as soon as someone touches it. After some time it comes back to its state. For this reason, Lajwanti is also called a sensitive plant or touch me not plant. Its botanical name is Mimosa pudica.

Benefits of Lajwanti:

In Diabetes

The Lajwanti plant is traditionally used for the treatment of diabetes in many places. According to research, anti-diabetic properties are found in mimosa, which helps in reducing the level of glucose present in the blood.

Wounds and rashes

The use of Lajwanti leaves is good for all kinds of wounds as it has wound healing properties which helps in the quick healing of wounds. Apart from this, the juice or paste of Lajwanti is also used to reduce the problem of rashes with wounds. Therefore, applying Lajwanti paste on any kind of wound or cut is a good remedy.

Relief of stress

The use of the Lajwanti plant is considered beneficial to relieve stress. The nutrients present in it are known to promote brain health. Apart from this, this nutrient helps in dealing with mental problems like stress, depression.

In Respiratory problems

According to research, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are found in Lajwanti leaves, which clear the airways by removing dust, allergens and inflammation of the airways. Lajwanti is also effective for the problem of asthma. Consuming the juice extracted from the Lajwanti plant twice a day is beneficial for asthma patients.

For sexual health

In Ayurveda, Lajwanti is considered a natural cure for sexual problems. It effectively works to promote the sexual health of men.  This benefits in removing premature ejaculation and other sexual problems.

For ulcers

The extract of mimosa acts like a medicine that has a positive effect on gastric hyperacidity and ulcers. Anti-ulcer properties are found in Lajwanti plays an important role in preventing ulcers.

For diarrhea

The use of Lajwanti is considered very good for diarrhea. It has been used as a medicine for diarrhea since ancient times. For this, consume a spoonful of the powder of the root of Mimosa with curd.

For stomach health

According to research reports, lajwanti helps in flushing out toxins and harmful bacteria from the body because it has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. Lajwanti helps in curing pain in the stomach especially the pain caused by intestinal worms. It is also helpful in improving the digestive system and keeping the stomach healthy.

Beneficial for hair

The use of Lajwanti is helpful in preventing the problem of hair fall. For this, it is beneficial to use shampoo containing Lajwanti’s juice. .

Other benefits of Lajwanti

• Useful in skin itching Make a paste of Lajwanti leaves and apply it to the itchy areas to get rid of itching.
• Useful in kidney stones: If a person has a kidney problem, making a decoction of 10 grams of powder of Lajwanti root and drinking it is beneficial. To melt kidney stone.
• Useful in piles: Consuming ground lajwanti with milk is beneficial for people suffering from piles
• Reduces breast laxity: Grinding the root of Lajwanti and Ashwagandha and applying it to the breast to get rid of breast laxity
• Useful in testicular swelling: Lajwanti is an effective medicine to get relief from swelling of the testicles.
• Snake and Scorpion bites: Powdered Lajwanti is beneficial in snakebite and scorpions. Also, it is beneficial to apply the paste to the bitten area.

Side effects of Lajwanti

• Lajwanti is a medicinal herb, which is very beneficial for health but for some people, its use can cause allergic reactions.
• Women who are planning for babies or are breastfeeding can experience unwanted side effects.

Conclusion:

Lajwanti majorly possesses antibacterial, ant venom, anti-fertility, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, and various other pharmacological activities. The herb has been used traditionally for ages, in the treatment of urogenital disorders, piles, dysentery, sinus, and also applied on wounds. However as a word of caution please consult your health care provider before starting this herb.

Introduction:

German chamomile is an herb that is native to southern and eastern Europe. The herb smells slightly like apple, and is popular throughout the world. The name “chamomile” is Greek for “Earth apple”.

Uses and effectiveness:

• Anxiety. Research suggests that taking capsules containing 220 to 1100 mg of 220-1110 mg of German chamomile extract daily for 8 weeks reduces anxiety and depression in adults with generalized anxiety disorder.
• Colic. Research shows that a specific herbal tea containing German chamomile, vervain, licorice, fennel, and lemon balm, taken up to three times daily after each episode of colic for 7 days, helps eliminate colic in some infants.
• Diarrhea. Taking a product containing apple pectin and German chamomile for 1-3 days seems to reduce diarrhea in children 6 months to 6 years old.
• Heartburn (dyspepsia). Research suggests that taking two specific combination products containing German chamomile and other ingredients improves symptoms of heartburn. 

May also be useful in other conditions such as:

• Common cold. Research suggests that dissolving a German chamomile product in hot water and inhaling the steam for 10 minutes reduces common cold symptoms.
• Inflamed or irritated skin (eczema). Some research shows that applying a cream containing 2% German chamomile extract to the skin improves inflamed or irritated skin.
• Gum disease. Research shows that using herbal toothpaste containing German chamomile, sage, myrrh eucalyptus, calcium carbonate, and odium monoflurophosphate twice daily for 30 days reduces gum disease compared to pretreatment. But it doesn’t appear to work better than standard toothpaste.
• Hemorrhoids. Research shows that applying German chamomile ointment together with standard treatment improves bleeding, itching, and burning in people with hemorrhoids.
• Insomnia. Research shows that taking German chamomile twice daily for 28 days does not improve sleeping problems in people with insomnia.
• Swelling and deterioration of the mouth lining (oral mucositis). Using a German chamomile mouth rinse might help prevent or treat swelling or deterioration of the mouth lining caused by radiation therapy and some types of chemotherapy.
• Skin breakdown around colostomy appliances (peristomal lesions). Early research shows that applying a German chamomile compress to areas of skin breakdown around colostomy appliances decreases the amount of time needed for skin lesions to heal by about 5 to 6
• Vaginal infection (vaginitis). Early research shows that flushing the vagina with a German chamomile extract in water reduces symptoms such as odor and swelling in women with vaginal infections.
• Wound healing. Research shows that applying a German chamomile product to wounds for 14 days reduces wound size after 4 days of treatment but does not affect wound healing approximately 3 weeks after tattoo removal.
• Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
• Fibromyalgia.
• Hay fever.
• Intestinal gas.
• Menstrual cramps.
• Nasal swelling (inflammation).
• Restlessness.
• Stomach and intestinal disorders.
• Travel sickness.

Precautions:

Children: German chamomile is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth appropriately, short-term of about one week.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking German chamomile if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Allergies to ragweed or related plants: German chamomile may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family of plants. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many other herbs.

Hormone-sensitive condition such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: German chamomile might act like estrogen in the body. If you have any condition that might be made worse by exposure to estrogen, don’t use German chamomile.

Surgery: German chamomile might interact with anesthesia for surgery and should not be used 2 weeks before surgery.

Conclusion:

Animal studies have shown that German chamomile reduces inflammation; speeds wound healing, reduces muscle spasms, and serves as a mild sedative to help with sleep. Test tube studies have shown that chamomile can kill bacteria, fungus, and viruses. A final word of caution; it is always better to consult your health care provider before using these herbal products.

introduction:

This plant is commonly known as Granny’s Bonnet or Columbine, actually consists of approximately 70 species of perennial plants that have been used as both a medicinal substance and a food source by Native Americans throughout the northern hemisphere. It is typically found in high altitudes in open meadows and woodlands, and is easy to identify due to the spurred petals of the flower, which look somewhat like a claw.

Medicinal uses:

Skin Health

For thousands of years, columbine has been used by the indigenous populations of North America and Europe to treat a variety of skin conditions. You can crush the seeds or roots and combine them with water to create a paste or salve that can be placed directly on rashes and irritation. The anti-inflammatory nature of columbine helps to reduce the irritation and redness of these affected areas. It is also effective for mild acne, psoriasis, and poison ivy, as well as other plant-derived rashes.

Eliminate Pain

Columbine also works as an effective pain reliever on various parts of the body. The same sort of paste can be applied to bruises and strained muscles to reduce the aches and pains, as a result of the same anti-inflammatory compounds found in the roots and seeds. Lotions made from the crushed root and the extracted oils are very popular for rheumatic pains as people age. Those suffering from arthritis can use these herbal lotions to significantly reduce their discomfort. Using columbine on open wounds is not a good idea, as the toxicity could negatively affect the body if it gets into the bloodstream.

Headaches

One of the most popular uses of columbine has been in the amelioration of headaches. Using tiny amounts of crushed seeds and often mixing them with wine or water, headaches can quickly be relieved. Again, the seeds contain toxic substances, so very small amounts are necessary for this treatment, and should not be used without consulting an herbalist.

Respiratory Issues

It is commonly used by crushing the roots and mixing them with water as a treatment for certain respiratory ailments, including congestion and sore throats. By eliminating the inflammation of the respiratory tracts, Columbine can help to speed up the healing process, reduce irritation, and eliminate congestion and it also prevents bacterial infections.

Detoxify the Body

Columbine has long been used to stimulate perspiration, and is known traditionally as an effective remedy to break a fever. Mixing the flowers with water and drinking this mixture help eliminating fevers rapidly. This same property also induces urination, so its diuretic action makes it valuable for detoxifying the body. By stimulating the elimination of excess toxins, salts, fats, and water, columbine helps relieve pressure on the kidneys and liver.

Stomach Issues

If the roots are prepared correctly, they can be consumed as a tonic for the stomach, as it can ease inflammation and irritation in the bowels that cause diarrhea and symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). It should however be consumed in small quantities and prepared by a trained herbalist.

Menstrual Bleeding

The effects of Columbine on women have been known for generations. A small tincture can be used to induce labor in pregnancy, and its properties as a coagulant and an astringent can help to reduce bleeding after delivery. Also, Columbine is used by many herbal practitioners to lessen menstrual bleeding and reduce some of the discomfort and symptoms associated with menstruation.

Conclusion:

Columbine is a lethal flower, so despite all of the health benefits we’ve just explained; you should not try to create decoctions, tinctures, or salves without proper training or consultation with an herbalist or traditional practitioner. Before adding any powerful herbal remedy to your health regiment, always consult a medical professional.

Introduction:

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) is a flowering plant native to the eastern part of the United States and Canada. The root and budding rootstalk (called the rhizome) secrete a red fluid when cut, giving the plant its name.

Bloodroot has long been used by Native Americans to induce vomiting in a practice intended to cleanse the body of harmful toxins.  In western herbal medicine, the plant is used most often used as an expectorant and antimicrobial in respiratory infection, and as a debriding agent in oral health.

Medical uses:

Dental diseases:

There is some evidence suggesting that bloodroot can reduce dental plaque and prevent or treat gingivitis and other gum diseases.

Skin Problems:

Bloodroot is often used in topical skincare products due to its high antioxidant content. It is considered a treatment for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis and to debride (reduce) skin growths such as warts, moles, and benign tumors.

Respiratory Health

Bloodroot is used to treat flu, common colds, sinus infections, and lung infections. It is believed to act as an expectorant, eliminating phlegm and mucus in the airways.

Heart Health:

Proponents of alternative medicine believe that bloodroot has positive effects in people with cardiovascular disease.  A chemical unique to bloodroot, called sanguinarine, is said to reduce blood pressure while preventing the buildup of plaque that can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Cancer:

A chemical compound in bloodroot, called berberine, has shown promise in triggering apoptosis (programmed cell death) in prostate, breast, and skin cancer cells in test tube studies.

Side effects:

• Dizziness
• Blurring of vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bradycardia
• Fainting
• Dilated pupils
• Diarrhoea

Interactions:

• Bloodroot may interact with anti-hypertensive drugs used to treat high blood pressure, amplifying their effects and leading to a potentially serious hypotensive event.
• It can interact with anti-arrhythmic drugs, leading to bradycardia and other heartbeat irregularities.
• Bloodroot may also slow blood-clotting and intensify the effects of anticoagulants (blood thinners) like warfarin, causing easy bruising and bleeding.

Conclusion:

Bloodroot is often used in topical skincare products due to its high antioxidant content. It is considered a treatment for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis and to debride (reduce) skin growths such as warts, moles, and benign tumors.

Introduction:

Sarpagandha or Indian Snakeroot is an effective medicinal herb in traditional medicines. It is one of the most famous herbs in Ayurveda due to its powerful medicinal values to treat various diseases. The root of Sarpagandha has been used as an effective remedy for hypertension since ancient times. The root of this plant is similar to a snake, so it is called a snakeroot. 

Medicinal Properties of Sarpagandha

• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-anxiety
• Antimicrobial
• Antidiuretic

• Antifungal
• Antihypertensive
• Anti-proliferative

• Antipsychotic
• Anthelmintic
• Anticholinergic
• Sedative
• Hypnotic

Medicinal uses:

Blood pressure:

Sarpagandha root powder is an effective remedy to decrease and control high blood pressure. The alkaloid present in Sarpagandha root contains Reserpine that has sedative effects. It helps to effectively reduce the level of catecholamines in the heart and androgenic nerves. 

Antioxidant properties:

It has many antioxidants that fight damage caused by free radicals.

Fights insomnia:

The hypnotic properties of Sarpagandha help to stimulate sleep. There are two types of insomnia, such as short-term and chronic.

Fights dysmenorrhea:

Sarpagandha is an effective remedy to decrease pain during menstrual periods.  It decreases cramps and throbbing pain by regulating the blood flow during the menstrual period. The analgesic property of Sarpagandha works significantly to reduce pain. 

Treats Gastro-intestinal problems:

Sarpagandha contains effective properties, acidic smell, strong bitter taste, so it helps to treat gastrointestinal diseases like anorexia, worms, and abdominal pain. 

Treats mental disorders:

Due to the antipsychotic, anti-anxiety, hypnotic, and sedative properties, Sarpagandha helps to treat various diseases such as sleeplessness, aggression, running, beating, crying, etc. 

Controls Diabetes:

According to studies, Sarpagandha not only treats diabetes and also treats many diseases. The hypoglycemic properties of Sarpagandha help to reduce the level of blood sugar.  Sarpagandha also used to reduce blood glucose levels by decreasing body weight and sugar levels in hemoglobin. 

Controls fever:

Sarpagandha is a perfect remedy for treating and preventing fever and disorders associated with fever. The alkaloids compound present in Sarpagandha helps to cure high-grade fever effectively. 

Prevents heart diseases:

According to studies, the extract of Sarpagandha helps to prevent coronary artery disease and decreases angina symptoms. 

Treats Dysentery and Cholera:

Sarpagandha helps to reduce dysentery and cures constipation that occurs due to headaches and hypertension.   Sarpagandha contains effective anti-microbial and antifungal properties that help to treat cholera.

Treats snakebites:

Sarpagandha is an effective remedy for treating snakebites in Ayurveda. Not only for snakebites but also treats various insect bites, and animal bites. 

Cancer therapy:

Sarpagandha decreases the symptoms of breast cancer in many patients due to its powerful medicinal values.

Side effects of Sarpagandha:

• Loss of Appetite
• Stuffy nose or Nasal Congestion
• Diarrhea
• Swelling of lower legs
• Dryness of the mouth
• Nausea & vomiting

Sarpagandha alkaloids can cause the following side effects.

• Impotence in men
• Mental depression
• Abdominal pain
• Blood in vomiting
• Headache
• Slow heartbeat
• Itching
• Trembling
• Bruising
• Chest pain
• Early morning sleeplessness
• Dizziness
• Skin Rash
• Irregular heartbeat
• Black or tarry stools
• Faintness or Drowsiness
• Reduced attention span
• Shortness of breath
• Difficult or painful urination
• Stiffness
• Nervousness
• Feeling of weakness or loss of energy
• Nasal congestion
• Hypersensitivity

Sarpagandha should be best avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

Conclusion:

Sarpagandha has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It has also been extensively researched. It is best to start using this amazing medicine after consulting your healthcare provider.

Introduction:

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an aromatic plant that is usually dried and used as a culinary herb. For centuries, sage also has also been used in both Eastern and Western cultures as a medicinal plant.

In recent years, scientists have studied the use of sage, sage tea, or sage extracts in preventing or treating some common medical conditions, such as high cholesterol, inflammatory conditions, and hot flashes.

Nutritional facts of Sage:

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0.1 grams
• Carbs: 0.4 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Vitamin K: 10% of the reference daily intake (RDI)
• Iron: 1.1% of the RDI
• Vitamin B6: 1.1% of the RDI
• Calcium: 1% of the RDI
• Manganese: 1% of the RDI

Sage contains a few different ingredients with health benenfits:

• Camphor: This oily substance gives sage its pungent aroma. Popularly used in topical creams and ointments, camphor actively stimulates nerve endings.
• Carnosic acid and carnosol: These have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma). PPAR-gamma helps regulate blood sugar, lipids, and inflammation, among other things.
• Phenolic acids: These are plant-based chemicals that have antioxidant properties, protecting cells from the oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

Benefits of Sage:

Cancer Prevention

Scientists have shown that components of Sage can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in test tubes. These components include carnosol, rosmarinic acid, and ursolic acid. They’ve been shown to have activity against the following types of cancer cells:

Lowers Cholesterol

One study concluded that sage has cholesterol-lowering effects. According to the research, people given between 400 milligrams (mg) to 1500 mg of sage daily (in the form of either powder, tea, or a supplement) achieved an overall improvement in their blood lipids after three months.

Improved Memory

There is evidence, though limited, to suggest that sage can improve memory and information processing.

Studies have found that sage and its active ingredients were associated with improvements in:

• Short-term memory
• Alertness
• Speed recall
• Mood

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Sage may be beneficial in providing relief for inflammatory conditions such as sore throat and sunburn.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms of menopause. A study published in the International Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences reported that taking a 100 mg daily dose of sage for eight weeks reduced the incidence of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.

Safety of Sage:

When consumed as a spice in food, sage is considered safe for adults and children. As a supplement, sage does not usually cause side effects at recommended dosages.

Healthcare professionals generally agree that:

• Sage should be safe when taken in medicinal amounts for no more than two months.
• Sage applied to the skin is possibly safe when used for up to one week.
• Sage essential oil, inhaled as aromatherapy, should be safe.

Interactions with allopathic drugs:

Sage can make anticonvulsant drugs less effective if used in excess. These drugs include:

• Phenobarbital
• Mysoline (primidone)
• Depakote (valproic acid)
• Neurontin (gabapentin)
• Tegretol (carbamazepine)
• Dilantin (phenytoin)

Conclusion:

It can be easy to get enthused about an herb like sage, particularly when you hear about all the discomforts and maladies that some people swear it can either ease or cure.

The National Institutes of Health note that herbals may not work as claimed and may contain ingredients or contaminants that are not listed on the label. Before you enter this unchartered territory, schedule a session with your healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks for you.

Introduction:

Marjoram is a unique herb popular in many Mediterranean dishes.  It has long been used as an herbal medicine and contains several compounds that may offer health benefits.

Marjoram, also known as sweet marjoram, is an aromatic herb in the mint family that has been grown in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Western Asia for thousands of years while similar to Oregano; it has a milder flavor and is often used to garnish salads, soups, and meat dishes.

Potential benefits:

Antioxidant properties:

Antioxidants help prevent cell damage caused by potentially harmful molecules called free radicals. Several compounds in marjoram, such as carvacrol, have been shown to have antioxidant properties.

Anti-microbial properties:

Marjoram has also demonstrated antimicrobial properties. Common uses include applying its diluted essential oil to your skin to treat fungal infections, as well as taking supplements to help treat overgrowth of gut bacteria

Digestive benefits:

Marjoram has historically been used to prevent digestive issues like stomach ulcers and certain food borne illnesses.

Menstrual cycle regulation:

Marjoram has been shown to stimulate menstrual flow.  Its extract or tea may help regulate your menstrual cycle, as well as regulate the menstrual hormone balance in non-pregnant women with an irregular cycle

Possible side effects:

Pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid marjoram supplements.  Due to its influence on various reproductive hormones and menstruation, this herb may trigger negative side effects during pregnancy

May affect clotting:

Marjoram supplements may inhibit blood clotting. Marjoram may impede platelet formation, which is a key factor in blood clotting

Interaction with certain drugs:

Marjoram may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and anticoagulants, to increase the risk of bleeding.

Conclusion:

Marjoram is an aromatic herb long used in cooking and traditional medicine.  It has several potential benefits, including reducing inflammation, relieving digestive issues, and regulating the menstrual cycle. It should however be used with caution and a health care practitioner should be consulted if there are some medical issues.

Introduction:

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is an herb that has been used to treat various ailments, including ulcers, herpes, and cancer. Hyssop is native to southern Europe and central Asia, but can also be found growing in gardens throughout North America. 

Uses of Hyssop:

Anti-cancer properties:

A 2014 review found evidence that herbs in the Lamiaceae family, including hyssop, may be able to destroy cancer cells

Ulcer treatment:

Many traditional uses of hyssop involve indigestion, and one lab study uncovered a possible reason for that. Researchers found that hyssop acts against two chemicals in the body that are involved in developing peptic ulcer disease.

Antioxidant property:

Hyssop is thought to have antioxidant properties that may provide many benefits. Antioxidants are powerful components that can fight off harmful substances and free radicals in your body.

Anti viral properties:

Hyssop may have some use in preventing the spread of these and other viruses.

Other possible uses:

• Poor circulation
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Asthma
• Cough
• Sore throats
• Intestinal infections
• Indigestion
• Gall bladder disease
• Poor appetite
• Urinary tract infections
• Dysmenorrhea

Side effects of taking Hyssop:

• Upset stomach
• Anxiety
• Tremor
• Seizures
• Miscarriage
• Severe allergic reactions

Conclusion:

Hyssop is an herb from the Lamiaceae family that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.  It may be beneficial for some to use due to its potential antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-cancer properties. However, no strong human trials have been performed on these and other claims surrounding hyssop uses. Therefore, take precautions and talk with your healthcare provider before starting hyssop.