Herbs Health

In addition to changing their life styles many people turn to herbal supplements and herbs to aid their weight loss. There are various ways by which these herbal supplements and herbs are thought to work for weight loss and those include adding bulk to the diet, increasing metabolism and increasing fat burning, nutritionally-rich preparations and mood enhancement.

For many people, the effects of stress, overwork, exhaustion and lifestyle lead to weight gain. In 2002, sixty one percent of adult Americans were overweight and twenty six percent of this group was obese. Eating too much, eating the wrong kinds of food for us and eating away from the home add to this and obesity has become one of the biggest health concerns we now face in western society.

Dieting and binge eating can play havoc with our metabolism and lead to further weight gains, making the prospect of losing weight harder to achieve. If you want to lose weight with herbs and herbal supplements, consider a balanced preparation that also has a quality B complex to boost your energy levels.

Some Popular Natural Herbs Used to Lose Weight

* Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium). This herb for weight loss works in much the same manner as ephedra, both contain beta antagonists which are known to cause body fat loss also to increase metabolism in those who are combining exercise and dietary measures to lose weight. Specific studies investigating the herb bitter orange are to date fairly small and not yet conclusive regarding the benefit of this herbal medicine for weight loss. Bitter orange should be used with caution if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. The rind of the immature fruit is also used in Chinese Medicine to aid digestion, it is known as Zhi Quao or Zhi Shi.
* Cayenne (Capsicum minimum, Capsicum annuum, C. frutescens)

Reputed to aid weight loss based on the principle of the heat of the plant matter.

* Hoodia gordonii (Hoodia gordonii) This medicinal herb is a succulent from the deserts of southern Africa. The San Bushmen have traditionally used this plant which they called Xhoba as an appetite suppressant when on long journeys. Hoodia has become the number one herb for appetite suppression in the United States. The active constituent in this herb is called P57, while there are many varieties of Hoodia, only Hoodia gordonii has P57. The exact biological pathway that P57 works on it still being understood, however, what is known about this steroidal glycoside is that it works on the brain to suppress apetite. Hoodia also enhances weight loss by lowering blood glucose, which lowers the insulin circulating in the blood, which in turn reduces fat storage. Hoodia has not shown to have significant side effects and looks set to become a major treatment in weight control.
* Coleus (Coleus forskohlii). Coleus works to assist weight loss by breaking down fat deposits and preventing production of adipose tissue. Coleus also mildly stimulates the metabolism by increasing thyroid function. A diterpenoid called forskolin is the active constituent of this herb and is the only plant derived compound known to directly stimulate the enzyme, adenlylate cyclase, and in turn, stimulates cellular cyclic AMP which boosts metabolism to assist weight loss.
* Ephedra (Ephedra sinica)
Clinical trials have shown benefit in weight loss but there are major safety concerns with this herb.
* Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Green Tea contains caffeine and is reputed to aid weight loss amongst other health claims. It is also a rich source of antioxidants.
* Guarana ( Paullinia cupana)
Has a reputation to aid weight loss via increased metabolism. It is thought to work in a similar way to caffeine.
* Guggul (Commiphora mukul)
Guggul is thought to affect metabolism, possibly reduce cholesterol levels and therefore may aid weight loss.
* Guar gum (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus)

A plant based dietary fibre derived from the bean of the plant.

* Garcina Cambogia (Garcina cambogia). This popular weight loss herb has been traditionally used in South East Asia to make meals more filling. Its active constituent is called hydroxycitric acid (HCA) Its role as a herb for weight loss is that it suppresses appetite and reduces the body's ability to form adipose(fatty) tissue due to overeating. It is thought Garcinia's weight loss action works by inhibiting the body's ability to convert carbohydrates to fats. This same mechanism floods the liver with glycogen which leads the brain to respond by suppressing appetite. Another significant study, using an animal model, found that during exercise the regular use of HCA promotes fat burning. Contra indications for garcina cambogia are: pregnancy, diabetes and people with dementia syndromes. This herb does interact with some prescription medicines and this should be discussed with your health care practitioner before use.
* Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)
Yerba Mate herb is from Paraguay, South America reputed to increase metabolism.
* Spirulina (Blue-Green Algae)
Spirulina is thought to be useful in weight-control diets because its high nutritional value helps to satisfy hunger.
* St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Known to lift mood and therefore may indirectly help weight loss.

The Use of Herbal Supplements for Weight Loss

Herbs for weight loss can be really helpful in boosting a sluggish metabolism and kick starting your weight loss program. To lose weight with herbs, look for a supplement that contains a good B complex to assist your energy levels that is targeted to weight loss. Many herbal supplements for weight loss will also contain B Vitamins, and minerals such as chromium, manganese, zinc and calcium.

Please have in mind that you should always educate your self about the herbs before you start using them. It is always a good idea to consult your health provider before taking herbal supplements or herbs for weight loss.

If you want to boost libido and sex drive naturally you can, here we will look at some proven herbs to increase libido that work quickly and naturally to repair your libido and improve your general health. Before we look at the specific herbs, let's look at some common problems that cause men who are in good health to lose their sex drive and have erection problems.

The foundation of your sexual health is based on good blood circulation.

When you become sexually excited, your heart beats faster and blood is sent to the genitals and men with poor libido tend to have sluggish blood circulation.

Next you need to have a key chemical called nitric oxide which is the key chemical in allowing an erection to occur. It is secreted in the walls of the blood vessels, that lead to the penis and allows enough blood to enter to swell the penis and create an erection.

If you have low levels of this chemical, you will never be able to get, or maintain an erection.

Another key chemical is testosterone which is the main male sex hormone - you know you need it for general health and sex health and if it drops health problems are the result.

Your state of mind also plays a key role in your sexuality.

If you are tired or stressed, you simply will not have enough energy for sex, as the body will immediately shut down your sex drive and put the energy you do have, to use in other areas.

Many men especially as they get older suffer the above problems but they can be cured and we all know we are what we eat!

So pay attention to your diet - get a good balanced diet and then add some herbs to increase libido and your general health will improve and your libido will soar.

Let's look at blood circulation first:

You can get better blood circulation by taking the Chinese popular herbs of Ginseng Ginkgo Biloba add it in Cnidium and you have herbs which will improve blood and oxygen flow, keep the blood nourished and blood vessels healthy

For Nitric oxide

Use L'arginine a naturally occurring amino acid in the body which assists nitric oxide production and then add Cnidium, mentioned above and the aptly named Horny Goat Weed.

For more testosterone

Use Mucuna Pruriens and Tongkat Ali. These two herbs are proven to increase testosterone levels and are a powerful combination.

For more energy and less stress

Take Horny Goat Weed, Ashwagandha Extract - "Indian Ginseng" and Jujube Fruit - these herbs are packed with nutrients to lift mood and energy levels and will make you feel in the mood for sex.

The above combination can be found in all the best natural sex pills. They will give not just your sexual health and libido a boost - but also improve overall wellness and health, just as nature intended with no need for drugs.

Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to improve sexual health and unlike drugs, they won't just give you an erection they will increase your libido and sex drive for a complete sexual experience. They work; here's why.

Your libido and erectile function is a reflection of your overall wellness and Chinese herbs to increase libido work by healing the whole body and this manifests itself in better sexual health. Your sex organs are part of your whole body and no part works in isolation that's why healing the whole body is so important.

You are what you eat and if you feed your body the right nutrients it has a vast capacity to heal itself and here we will look at the nutrients these herbs have to solve common sexual problems which are listed below.

Blood Circulation

You need strong blood circulation around the body, as during sexual arousal, your sex organs need to be filled with blood quickly. Any man with erection problems is likely to have sluggish blood circulation.

Nitric Oxide

This chemical controls the flow of blood into the Penis. When secreted it allows an increased amount of blood to enter the penis, creating an erection. If you don't have enough of it, you will never get an erection.

Testosterone

The key male sex hormone which is needed for both sexual and general health.

Energy and Mood

Stress, anxiety and fatigue, sap sex drive and cause numerous health problems.

Low body energy also means you are simply not in the mood for sex. When these problems are relieved, you feel better, your mood is lifted and your attention turns to sex.

Here are some of the best herbs which if combined, with a balanced diet and a sensible lifestyle, will give your wellness and sexual health a boost and they are found in all the best herbal sex pills.

Horny Goat Weed

A great name for a libido enhancer and a great herb for sexual health. Increases Nitric oxide, testosterone and also combats stress and fatigue.

Cnidium

A little known but powerful herb which increases nitric oxide and inhibits PD5 - just like Viagra and other prescription drugs but it does it naturally. It also keeps the blood healthy and improves overall circulation

Ginseng

The world's most popular tonic herb which improves mood and lifts energy levels. It helps to improve blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body, helps heal the sex organs naturally, helps in testosterone production and keeps sperm healthy.

Tongkat Ali

The nutrients in this powerful herb increase testosterone levels and decrease SHBG levels. The result is seen in better erection ability, performance and sex drive. Tongakat Ali increases sperm count, sperm size and motility.

Today, you can get all the above Chinese herbs to increase libido in the best herbal sex pills and they will help to improve overall wellness and at the same time help cure sexual health problems.

Chinese herbs have been used for centuries to improve sexual health and unlike drugs, they won't just give you an erection they will increase your libido and sex drive for a complete sexual experience. They work; here's why.

Your libido and erectile function is a reflection of your overall wellness and Chinese herbs to increase libido work by healing the whole body and this manifests itself in better sexual health. Your sex organs are part of your whole body and no part works in isolation that's why healing the whole body is so important.

You are what you eat and if you feed your body the right nutrients it has a vast capacity to heal itself and here we will look at the nutrients these herbs have to solve common sexual problems which are listed below.

Blood Circulation

You need strong blood circulation around the body, as during sexual arousal, your sex organs need to be filled with blood quickly. Any man with erection problems is likely to have sluggish blood circulation.

Nitric Oxide

This chemical controls the flow of blood into the Penis. When secreted it allows an increased amount of blood to enter the penis, creating an erection. If you don't have enough of it, you will never get an erection.

Testosterone

The key male sex hormone which is needed for both sexual and general health.

Energy and Mood

Stress, anxiety and fatigue, sap sex drive and cause numerous health problems.

Low body energy also means you are simply not in the mood for sex. When these problems are relieved, you feel better, your mood is lifted and your attention turns to sex.

Here are some of the best herbs which if combined, with a balanced diet and a sensible lifestyle, will give your wellness and sexual health a boost and they are found in all the best herbal sex pills.

Horny Goat Weed

A great name for a libido enhancer and a great herb for sexual health. Increases Nitric oxide, testosterone and also combats stress and fatigue.

Cnidium

A little known but powerful herb which increases nitric oxide and inhibits PD5 - just like Viagra and other prescription drugs but it does it naturally. It also keeps the blood healthy and improves overall circulation

Ginseng

The world's most popular tonic herb which improves mood and lifts energy levels. It helps to improve blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body, helps heal the sex organs naturally, helps in testosterone production and keeps sperm healthy.

Tongkat Ali

The nutrients in this powerful herb increase testosterone levels and decrease SHBG levels. The result is seen in better erection ability, performance and sex drive. Tongakat Ali increases sperm count, sperm size and motility.

Today, you can get all the above Chinese herbs to increase libido in the best herbal sex pills and they will help to improve overall wellness and at the same time help cure sexual health problems.

Low testosterone levels do not just cause sexual health problems, they cause numerous general health problems. As testosterone levels drop with age, it's important to keep levels topped up and the 4 herbs enclosed will do just that...

The four herbs below will all increase testosterone levels and also provide other health and sexual health benefits.

Mucuna Pruriens

Medical studies in India have shown that mucuna pruriens stimulates the release of testosterone. The high levels of l-dopa in seed are converted to dopamine which stimulates the pituitary gland to realize more testosterone. L-dopa and dopamine are also inhibitors of prolactin, elevated levels of which are thought to responsible for up 80% of erection failure in men

Tongkat Ali Extract (Eurycoma longfolia)

The root (long jack root) of the Eurycoma longifolia tree has been used in China for centuries to boost sexual desire and as a general energy herb. The herb contains dimutase, an anti-oxidant enzyme is present in the herb which fights free radicals damage in the body. The Glygopeptide compounds in the herb also enhance free testosterone and reduce SHBG levels in the body, which is reflected in better erection ability. Finally, the herb increases sperm count size and motility.

Horny Goat Weed

This well known Chinese herb to increase libido is much more than just a great name - it actually works and has been prescribed for centuries to combat low energy and impotence. The herb Increases testosterone levels, as well as nitric oxide levels the chemical which is crucial to a man getting an erection by regulating blood flow into the penis. The herb also enhances energy levels and fights stress at the same time.

Ginseng

Medical testing has recently shown that it helps to increase levels of testosterone to go with the other numerous health benefits the herb is renowned for including - boosting blood circulation around the body and to the genitals, fighting stress and enhancing mood, keeping sperm healthy and acting as a general body and anti aging tonic.

Get them All

You will find them in all the best herbal sex pills and they will provide a potent combination for testosterone increase, as well as numerous other sexual and general health benefits done safely and naturally, without the need for expensive testosterone replacement therapy.

If you want to increase libido naturally you can with the proven herbs enclosed and not only will your sexual health improve these herbs will improve your overall health at the same time - lets take a look at how and why they work...

Before we look at the herbs themselves, lets look at some common problems that cause low libido.

Low estrogen levels can cause intercourse to be painful and see sexual desire plummet. Low levels of testosterone also cause low libido and its not just men who need it. Sluggish blood circulation is another problem; sexuality is based on strong blood circulation to the genitals and any women with low libido is likely to have poor blood circulation.

The above are all physical reasons for low libido - but the mind and the spirit also play a key role. Stress, anxiety and tiredness, all leave you to exhausted to think about sex. It's vital your body has plenty of energy and you have correct hormonal balance to boost sexual desire.

Here are some great herbs you can take which as a combination, will combat all the above and are found in the best herbal sex pills.

Satavri Extract (Asparargus Recemosus)

Shatavri improves muscle tone, moistens dry tissues of the sexual organs and increases overall body strength and boosts levels of testosterone.

Choraka (Dong Quai)

Dong Quai root has earned the reputation as the best all round herb for women.
It is used to restore balance to a woman's hormones and cycles and is often taken to combat PMS; relieving conditions such as - vaginal dryness and hot flushes. Dong Quai also has a balancing effect on estrogen and blood sugar levels. Finally, it acts as a blood circulation herb and helps improve blood flow while, nourishing the blood at the same time.

Avena Sativa

Avena Sativa helps the body relax and also, enhances sensitivity in the vagina region.

Ginseng

Ginseng helps to promote overall wellbeing, sexual performance and improves desire. The herb stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary axis in the brain, which secretes adrenal corticotropic hormone (ACTH), this then binds to the brain cells, reducing stress and lifting mood. This herb is also an excellent blood circulation herb pumping blood to all areas of the body including the sex organs.

Schisandra

Schisandra chinensis fruit is used to treat a wide variety of menopausal problems. It also acts to increase blood flow to the female pelvic region.

Damiana Extract (Turnera Aphrodisiaca)

This herb relieves anxiety, depression, and headaches during menstruation, and combats exhaustion. It also balances female hormone levels and control hot flushes. The herb gives a feeling of mild euphoria and is the perfect herb to put you in the mood for sex.

Ashwagandha - Extract "Indian Ginseng"

Ashwagandha is a tonic herb packed with nutrients and acts to energize and rejuvenate on a mental level it helps minimize the effects of stress, enhances vitality, fights fatigue and naturally heals the sex organs.

Get them All for Improved Sexual Health and Wellness

The above and other herbs are found in all the best women's natural sex pills and will not only improve libido but will also act to improve overall wellness, so you get more from sex and more from life, just as nature intended.

If you want to cure low sexual desire and increase libido quickly, you can with a combination of proven herbs which will enhance both general health and sexual health. Let's take a look at the herbs and how they work...

Before we look at the herbs, let's quickly review the health problems which can diminish sexual desire.

In terms of sexual health, there are two chemicals all women need and there estrogen and testosterone. If levels of either chemical drop, low libido will be the result.

For a strong libido and sexual satisfaction, strong blood flow to the sex organs during a period of arousal is a must. Your sexuality relies on blood being pumped quickly to fill the genitals and when this doesn't occur, sex drive and sexual satisfaction plummets. Any woman who has a low sex drive is likely to have sluggish blood circulation. It's also very important that on a mental level, the mind is free of worry, stress and anxiety, so that you can focus on sex.

If you solve the problems above, not only will your sexual health improve, your overall level of wellness will too. Below we have outlined a combination of herbs which are found in all the best women's herbal sex pills.

Satavri Extract (Asparargus Recemosus)

Shatavri enhances testosterone levels, increases muscle tone, increases overall body strength and moistens the dry tissues of the female sexual organs.

Avena Sativa

Avena Sativa is a herb which increases sexual satisfaction and it does this by helping the body relax and enhancing sensitivity in the vagina.

Dong Quai

Dong Quai is used to restore balance to a woman's hormones and cycles, helps to restore menstrual regularity, and aids conditions of the reproductive system. The herb is often taken to combat PMS, and to help women resume normal menstruation after using contraception. It has numerous health benefits and in terms of sexual health, it improves blood circulation, improves mood, increases energy levels and balances blood sugar and estrogen levels.

Ginseng

Ginseng improves blood circulation around the body and increases energy levels. On a mental level, it stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary axis of the brain, which secretes adrenal corticotropic hormone ACTH, which then binds directly to brain cells, reducing stress and enhancing overall mood.

Schisandra

Schisandra is taken to treat cardiovascular symptoms related to symptoms of the menopause, the herb is known to have a vasodilatory effect which enhances blood flow to the pelvic region.

Shunthi (Ginger)

This herb has been known as a herb to ignite sex drive and has been used for thousands of years. Its main affect in terms of sexual health is to get the blood flowing to the sex organs during arousal and it also acts as a heart tonic.

Kumari (Aloe)

Aloe aids digestion, increases blood and lymphatic circulation, and improves kidney, liver and gall bladder functions.

Get the All for Better Sexual Health

If you take the above herbs in combination you will improve overall wellness, sexual health and cure low sexual desire quickly and naturally. You will find them in all the best herbal sex pills so try them and you will get more from sex and more from life.

Recently it has been shown that high herbal tea and quality teas have many health benefits, especially Black and Green Tea. With all the news on Black and Green Tea lately, you may be considering adding it to your daily diet regime. If that is so, only use the best quality and freshest tea available for the maximum health benefits. Also consider the health benefits of herbal teas using fresh herbs. Think of these as herbal medicine.

Millions of people all of the world have been drinking tea and infusions for centuries specifically for herbal medicine. In America, it has been considered a cheap convenient drink for soothing the soul and stimulating the senses. Yet there is a far more important reason that people drink tea more than any other beverage: the tea leaf has potent health-enhancing powers. The Japanese have known this for thousands of years and the modern West is just catching up to the remarkable health benefits of drinking tea.

To make a tea or infusion you must steep the fresh herb in boiling water. Many think of teas and infusions as the same, but there is a slight difference.

When making teas or herbal teas you are brewing it and you don't leave it steeping for very long. An easy way to brew it is to place the tea bag or fresh herbs into a measuring cup with 8 ounces of water. Microwave for two minutes and you have a cup of tea. Fresh herbs make a marvelous cup of tea and are considered essential in herbal medicine.

Infusions on the other hand stay in the boiling water longer, anywhere from 10 - 20 minutes. Obviously the longer the fresh herbs steep the stronger the brew will become and it will become a more potent herbal medicine. Infusions should be used immediately after brewing to reap the most out of this herbal medicine, especially when using fresh herbs. Rule of thumb is to use 1-2 teaspoons of dried, crushed, or powdered herbs. If you want to get the most out of this herbal medicine use fresh herbs and double the amount to steep. After the steeping time your infusion will be at room temperature. It is okay to warm it back up if you prefer it hot.

Infusions can be therapeutic as well as being considered herbal medicine. While your infusion is steeping bend over the container and breathe in the steam. This will act as a decongestion when you are suffering from colds or allergies. Close your eyes, try to envision this herbal medicine as attacking the germs in your system. Visualizing the fresh herb infusions attacking the malady will help to fight illnesses quite well, according to some published studies. It is like the grounding technique used in yoga. Here again, fresh herbs make the best infusions in herbal medicine.

There is a problem with infusions as they tend to be quite bitter. And of course, if you can't drink the infusion then it will not be an advantageous herbal medicine. To make it taste better try adding honey or sugar. If you still can't get it down, try a different infusion. There are many different fresh herbs to try when brewing your herbal medicine.

Decoctions are a different story as they don't use strictly fresh herbs. Here you would use the dried roots, flowers seeds and barks for their medicinal purposes, not fresh herbs. To get the most from your mixture heat will be used since it is more difficult to extract their active chemicals. Start by boiling the roots and allow them a good head start. Next add the bark, the seeds, the flowers and any spices in that order. Allow a few minutes of simmering after each addition. Then simmer the herbal medicine slowly for 10 to 20 minutes.

Now you have another use for your fresh herbs. This gives you yet another excuse to plant a beautiful herb garden

Happy Healthy Gardening!

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

The history of Chinese herbs used for medicinal purposes dates back to sometime between 800 and 200 BC with the publication of Huang Di Nei Jing - The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine. At this time, a combination of 28 separate Chinese herbs had been discovered to have great healing power and the combination of many of these are still in existence today.

By around 500 AD, Chinese herbs had been sorted into a classification system that helped guide their use depending on the particular situation. Superior herbs were used to help sustain health - much as we use herbal and vitamin supplements today; middle herbs were used to treat illness; and inferior herbs were used to cure disease. Chinese herbs have been credited with successfully treating everything from acne to infertility.

In today's world, where traditional medicine tends to focus on the methods employed in Western medicine, much of the uses of Chinese herbs are largely passed over. But for those who look towards non-traditional medicine as a means of recovering health or even as a supplement to traditional medical care, they will find the benefits of Chinese herbs to be rooted in ancient knowledge and a history of success.

Chinese herbs can be found in a variety of places including medical offices following the Eastern practice of medicine, Asian markets, and even online. But the use of Chinese herbs, while most often safe, should be used under the guidance of a medical professional and after extensive research has been performed.

If there is an interest in using Chinese herbs to help supplement health or treat an existing condition, it is best to research those herbs that have shown success in these particular instances. Seek out a medical professional or someone well-versed in the use of Chinese herbs to determine the best way to proceed.

When Chinese herbs are used in conjunction with education, preparedness, and medical supervision, they can be a fantastic tool to achieving overall, natural health.

In a world with an ever critical eye towards all that is natural, organic, whole, and healthy, it is no wonder that the use of herbs continues to gain interest. Herbs - in their natural form - are used for everything from cooking and skin care, to health supplements and medicinal purposes. Deciphering the extensive varieties of herbs available to us, however, can be an overwhelming and confusing process. These enormously practical plants are ancient in their existence and limitless in their uses.

Herbs used for culinary purposes are included to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Often, a specific culture is identified by the herbs they use in their cooking. For example, while arugula and fennel are used often in Greek food, you will more often find cumin and ginger the stars in Thai cooking. Herbs are used the world over to naturally enhance an array of dishes. Even fresh mint - in use in tea and in a variety of other forms - has become a staple of our herbal repertoire.

For those in search of natural ways to increase vigor and health, medicinal herbs have been shown to accomplish everything from sustaining and enhancing health to treating particular medical conditions. Blackberry root has shown success in treating diarrhea, sore throat, and cough. Dandelion, an extraordinary nutritious herb, has a history of success in treating everything from eczema to jaundice. Ginseng, an herb enjoying an increased popularity as of late, increases metabolism and has even been known as an aphrodisiac. Native American tribes can be largely credited with the initial uses of many herbs in a medicinal nature.

An added benefit in the use of herbs - in any capacity - is the convenience and affordability associated with purchasing them. Herbs can be found as near as your local grocery store, farmers market, or health food store. Or, for the green thumbs among us, herbs can be easily grown right in your own backyard. An herbal garden can be both visually appealing and health stimulating. There's nothing more convenient than having a range of herbs right at your fingertips.

Regardless of the way in which you choose to use herbs, you won't be disappointed. Take the time to learn about all the ways in which herbs can enhance your food, your health, and your appearance and you'll soon be well on your way to a more natural lifestyle.

Depression and anxiety are so common in the modern world, and no single drug offers an effective cure. However, there are many herbal remedies for depression that can help you. Find out what herbs for depression are the most effective and how to use them

Most Asian countries are famous for their use of medicinal heeling herbs. One reason is climate - warm and humid it promotes plants growth and it is also traditional way of living using healing herbs to fight diseases where even modern drugs don't work. Herbs that help with depression are no exception - you can find many Chinese medicinal herbs to cure depression and relieve stress. The Western world has also caught on the usage of medicinal herbs as a treatment for many illnesses, because it is safer and more natural.

Why should you use herbs for depression?

Many of us trust natural herbs in place of common medicine simply because natural plants rarely have side effects in the long run, which one almost always is faced with when administering powerful traditional drugs. Natural herbs to cure depression almost always will obtain the results desired but won't show the results immediately. Healing plants are not as strong, and they work on a different principal. They improve your overall health and immune system rather than concentrate on depression alone. Medicinal herbs need to be taken as prescribed just like traditional drugs. Also keep in mind that the effect of interrupted treatment will be lost.

Many medicinal herbs are advertised to help with depression. Unfortunately, for most of them there is no strong evidence that they really work. There still a lot of testing to be done. Two herbs that help reduce depression for sure are Amoryn and St. John's Wort. Most effective natural depression remedies contain pharmaceutical-grade St. John's Wort extract.

Benefits of herbal medicine

People who search for alternative and safer treatment for depression use herbs because of the many benefits herbal medicine offers. The beauty of herbs is that they don't cause more health problems than they cure. But you still have to be sure that you take the right herbs to treat your condition. It is also greatly important to take the correct among of your herbs and to do so with right intervals. And how will you know what herbs you need? The only way is to check with doctor herbs for depression is best for you.

It is not recommended to use any herbal medicine just because you saw an ad for it, or your friends say it helped them, because herbal medicine should only be used when needed. Remember your depression won't go away, if the herbs are not taken properly. You will only waste your money and time.

Best way to find right herbal treatment for depression.

Go to a homeopathic clinic, it will provide you with qualified physicians. The doctor may ask you many questions about your current stress situation as well as about your general health. Then you will get your prescription for an herbal treatment for your depression and to improve your general health.

Overall, there are so many different herbs that can be used for medicinal purposes. To discover what herbal treatments are available for your condition collect info about what herbs can do for your health.

Chinese Herbs to increase libido have been used for centuries and there still used today and they work, quickly and naturally to give you harder erections, increased libido and more satisfying sex...

While you can get a hard erection by taking a synthetic drug, they can have dangerous side affects in addition, synthetic drugs don't increase sexual desire, so you don't get a complete sexual experience. Chinese herbs will however do both - give you better erections and more desire.

Common causes of low libido and poor erectile function include poor blood circulation to and into the penis, low levels of testosterone, low body energy and stress; not only do they these problems affects sexual health , they can cause numerous general health issues.

By using Chinese herbs you can get better health and enjoy better sex at the same time. Let's look at some of the most effective herbs which can be found in the best super strength, natural sex pills for men.

Cnidium

Increases blood circulation to and into the penis which helps you get a better erection and hold it for longer.

Horny Goat Weed

Increases testosterone levels, reduces stress, boosts body energy and helps with nitric oxide secretion which increases blood flow into the penis, to give you a harder erection.

Ginseng

This well known tonic herb, enhances energy levels in the body, reduces stress, improves mood and also helps to keep sperm healthy.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow and oxygen throughout the body. The herb also helps increase the half-life of the endothelium relaxation factor, which improves blood flow into the penis, allowing you to get a harder erection and maintain it for a longer period of time.

Tongkat Ali Extract (Eurycoma longfolia)

The bioactive Glygopeptide compounds in Tongkat Ali increase free testosterone and decrease SHBG levels, enabling a hard erection to be held for longer finally, Tongakat Ali increases sperm count, sperm size and motility.

Tribulus Terrestris Extract

Tibulus dramatically increases testosterone levels in men and is a favorite herb of serious athletes as it increases stamina, performance and reduces recovery time. The herb to contain protodioscin, a saponin constituent which is known to increase desire and also aids sperm motility in infertile and sub-fertile men.

Get them ALL for Better Health

In traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are prescribed to improve general health and the above have numerous health benefits and of course by healing the whole body, sexual health improves at the same time. Prescription drugs are a quick fix and give you a harder erection; Chinese herbs do this too but also increase desire for a complete sexual experience.

You can get them in all the best natural herbal sex pills for men, there safe, natural and act quickly so try them and you maybe glad you did.

If you want to increase libido you can buy natural sex pills which will do just that and a lot more; they will help combat symptoms of PMT, the menopause and enhance overall wellness at the same time. Let's take a look at one of the best - Venerx...

Venerx contains a potent combination of herbs which target all the main problems which cause women's sexual dysfunction. Lets take a look at the problems and how these herbs work.

1. Low Estrogen Levels

You need to produce plenty of estrogen for sexual desire, low levels of estrogen cause sex drive to plummet and intercourse to become painful.

The pill contains Dong Quai which is seen as the ultimate herb for women. This herb helps increase estrogen levels, fights PMT and the menopause and is packed with nutrients for overall health. The pills also contains Schisandra chinensis fruit another herb which helps estrogen production.

2. Low Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is not just needed by men, it's a key hormone for women's sexual health too. Low levels of testosterone will result in a lack of energy and low sex drive.

The pill contains Avena Sativa and Satavri Extract which both help to increase testosterone production and also give other benefits including - helping blood flow to the vagina and increasing its sensitivity, for more satisfying sex.

3. Poor Blood Circulation

The foundation upon which libido and sexual satisfaction is built. Quite simply you need blood pumped to the sex organs quickly and they need to be flooded with blood when you become sexually aroused.

Dong Quai (mentioned earlier) is a great blood circulation herb and also helps to nourish it at the same time. The pill also includes the well known tonic herbs of, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng and Ginger which all help circulate the blood more strongly around the body and to the sex organs.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are major passion killers. To enjoy sex you need to have a mind free from stress and worry, to be able to concentrate on sex.

The pill contains Damiana which is one of the best herbs to relieve stress, as well as Ashwagandha - Extract "Indian Ginseng" which is one of the best herbs to lift mood. Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba, mentioned earlier are also great stress busters.

5. The Spirit and Hormonal Balance

When your spirit is alive with feelings of well being, you feel good, you feel sexy, and you feel more alive! All the herbs above will help lift overall health and spirit and the ones we haven't mentioned yet are:

Kumari (Aloe)

Aloe facilitates digestion, helps blood and lymphatic circulation, and improves kidney, liver and gall bladder functions.

Mishreya (Fennel)

This herb inhibits spasms in smooth muscles and also reduces pain, fever, and anti-microbial actions.

Haridra (Turmeric)

This herb is a rich source of iron and is often used to treat anemia and has numerous nutrients for better wellness.

Get them all for Better health

The pill contains 14 great herbs for better health which increase libido, combat PMT and the menopause and give the mind and body a complete lift so you get more from sex and more from life.

Finally...

The pill has been independently tested and issued a Certificate of Analysis to guarantee authenticity and purity and is formulated in FDA-compliant facilities to FDA safety and manufacturing standards for peace of mind. The pill comes at a great price too and we consider Venerx to be the best herbal sex pill for women. A great herbs at a great price!

Perhaps you are one of those men who feel that they need herbal therapies and medicines to boost their sagging energy, improve their memory, and generally enhance their overall health. But you may also feel that herbal medicines and the lot are only reserved for women. Well, if you continue to think that way, you will be missing out on the restorative and therapeutic effects of herbs.

There seems to be a misguided preconception floating around that herbs and herbal medicine in general are only for women. We have a tendency to ignore the unmistakable fact that men need herbs, too. Herbs have an equally important role in both men and women's health. Imbalances in the hormonal levels usually are to blame for several of the physical and mental problems that are especially unique in males. It is fortunate that there are several available herbal medicines that can help a lot in alleviating these physical and mental health problems.

Our bodies are aging slowly but surely, and we are becoming physically and mentally debilitated as we grow old. In the process, our hormonal levels drop and somehow get confused. Natural herbs can be valuable in helping us fight these problems and add much-needed strength, stamina, vitality and oomph back into our bodies and our lives. Together with the requisite improvements in your diet and exercise habits, natural herbs can help in balancing the confused hormonal levels and bring back the balance to your body and mind.

The usual health problems that men suffer from include several health deficiencies that are unique only to their gender, such as sexual problems like impotence, reduced sexual drive, premature ejaculation, and even prostrate health concerns. Impotence is probably one of the most critical health concerns for men aged 40 years and above. Estimates range from 50 to 100 million males suffering from mild to severe impotence symptoms. Aside from this, several health issues such as heart, kidney, muscle and skin problems also trouble not only women but men as well.

Of course there are several synthetic drugs that men can use to combat these health issues, but the common dilemma regarding chemically-produced drugs is that the negative side-effects and concerns sometimes far outweigh the benefits of using these kinds of drugs. As a result, a growing interest among men for herbal medicines and concoctions to treat impotence has been observed. This shouldn't come as a surprise, since natural herbs have been used for ages to cure these kinds of maladies. Herbs such as Wild Oats, Horny Goat, Saffron, Ashwamedha and Ginger, to name a few, have been used by the Chinese and Indians centuries ago to treat impotence and boost sex drive.

How about those pesky prostrate problems? For low intensity prostrate tumors, herbs like Ginseng and Chaparral can be effective for treatment, while Echinacea, Yarrow, Dandelion and Marshmallow can be used for painful prostrate enlargements. Hypertension can be brought down to lower levels by using herbs like Catmint and Skullcap, while the pain from arthritis and rheumatism can be alleviated by Marjoram and Meadow Sweet herbs.

This is certainly not an extensive list of the various health problems that can be treated by using natural herbs and concoctions, but is enough to give you an idea of what these herbs can do for you. So stop thinking that herbs are only good for women, and start enjoying the innumerable benefits that natural herbs and medicines can give you.

Natural herbs have been used all throughout history for a number of things. One of the most important areas of focus when it comes to these particular plants has been directly related to the overall health of an individual. In the early years of medicine, individuals who practiced believed that herbs played a large role in the overall health of an individual.

It was believed that by ingesting these herbs, or applying them to a specific area of the body, one could experience relief from the complications of the body. Throughout this article, you will be introduced to natural herbs and the role that they play on the health.

In today's world, where over-the-counter and prescription medications are readily available in abundance, many individuals seek to care for their body in a more natural way. It is believed that herb based remedies are a bit more safe than medicinal treatments that are created using chemicals and compounds that are not natural.

However, there is still a relatively large debate occurring when it comes to the overall effectiveness and safety of these particular remedies. Still, herbs are basically viewed in a positive light and are pursued by those who wish to optimize their overall health.

In addition to the many health uses for herbs, individuals have found other ways to use these natural substances. Many have found that these items enhance the overall flavor and appeal of many different dishes. It is not uncommon to see herbs like garlic and parsley being sold in grocery stores.

Many other herbs are used in beauty products, like items that go on the hair, skin cleansers, and other types of products. As you can see, natural herbs play a large role in the health, in the diet, as well as the beauty and hygiene needs of people.

In this next section, I will introduce you to a few natural herbs, as well as their uses. It is important to know and understand that there are numerous herbs available. This is just a small sample of the ones that are available for use:

1. Chamomile - This particular herb is especially popular when it comes to relaxation. Many have found that this is a successful herb when it comes to treating sleep complications and high levels of anxiety. This herb can be brewed, used in cooking, or even in aromatherapy.

2. Dill - This herb has been used by a number of individuals who have gastrointestinal difficulties. Those that suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and similar conditions can experience relief when ingesting this particular herb.

3. Aloe Vera - Aloe Vera is a very diverse herb when it comes to medicine and the health of an individual. Many who experience skin complications such as dry skin, and acne have benefited in many different ways by using this herb. In addition to this, individuals who have dry hair and scalp conditions may choose to use this herb as a rinse. Inflammatory conditions have also been successfully treated by implementing the use of the Aloe Vera plant.

4. Arnica - Arnica has been used in many individuals who experience complications with healing, those that have sore muscles, and other types of pain. If you suffer from fibromyalgia, muscle strain and injury, and similar conditions, this herb may prove to be extremely beneficial.

Conclusion

There are many benefits associated with natural herbs. Many use these substances in order to optimize their health, while others use these substances in order to increase the effectiveness of their beauty regime. Then, there are many who simply use the many natural herbs in order to enhance the flavoring of the meals that they prepare.

There's more to using this oriental herb spice than just as a spicy ingredient when preparing an exotic dish at home. But, what possible health benefits could turmeric have?

Much of what the ancient far east cultures knew about turmeric still holds true today. They used it to detox and cleanse the body, something modern nutritionists are advocating we do on a regular basis.

Closely related to that other spice ginger, studies surrounding turmeric have attributed some healthy benefits when taken as a supplement or as an extract in an overall daily nutritional supplement. This article will look into just three of those benefits in a cursory fashion.

The first one is for osteoarthritis sufferers, where the anti inflammatory properties of turmeric have seemingly made a difference.

The second good reason to have it in your arsenal of anti aging weapons is because it's another food source high in antioxidants. These substances and compounds go by many different names, but the important thing not to forget is they are very effective at combating the damage caused by free radicals. This damage often leads to a lot of the visible signs of aging like wrinkles.

Lastly there have been some interesting and promising low level studies into how turmeric interacts with certain forms of cancers. Work on this is ongoing and some comments on its tumor suppressing properties have been made.

That's certainly changed my opinion of the turmeric herb. Next time I pick up that jar of brown looking powder from my kitchen spice rack, I'll be adding an extra amount for sure.

Have you read about this recently, how the turmeric herb can help with a vast array of ailments? It seems this super herb has much to offer and we are only just seeing the beginning of what it can do!

The active ingredient it contains that experts are excited about is called curcumin, which gives it its yellow color and strong odor. This is why it is so common in cooking to color the food, and is used as a cheaper alternative to saffron.

It has been used for centuries in India and China to cure many types of ailments and is only now coming to the forefront here in the West. The turmeric herb has been shown to help prevent cancer in all stages and protect the heart from disease.

Another potential life saving quality is its ability to lower your bad (LDL) cholesterol levels, while maintaining the good ones. Too often these days you are immediately given statins to help lower it but while these work, they add to the chemical burden your body has to cope with, and can have side effects.

When using turmeric herb, it will, due to its powerful antioxidant qualities, actually help to boost your immune system at the same time, which has the double bonus of helping you to avoid those common colds and the flu we seem to catch more and more now!

We are hearing all the time now about how these powerful herbs can help prevent and cure some of the world's worst diseases, and it's about time! We should be looking at taking preventative measures and not end up having to deal with the aftermath of an illness.

One of the other interesting benefits of the turmeric herb I found during my research was how it has been shown to help us stay sharp as we get older, and with half of us predicted to get some kind of dementia, this is really excellent news.

If you want to include it in your daily routine, why not take it in a high quality nutritional supplement as I do, where you will get the benefit of it and many other synergistic ingredients like green tea and importantly piperine, which significantly increase the absorption of turmeric.

Ensure you are getting 95% pure curcumin extract from turmeric herb for the maximum benefits and you can have the peace of mind that you are helping to prevent many of the life threatening diseases in the future and maintaining optimum health in the present.

Visit my website today to learn more about how to choose a quality turmeric supplement.

Many people on the hunt for nutritional supplements are concerned about what kind of herbal medicine for cold sicknesses are offered. From the period of November until March, cold season sets in and it can really ruin your day. While there isn't too much of a clear determinant about how to cure a cold, your best bet is to try to ward it off before it even strikes you.

Once you already have the flu, there are herbal remedies, supplements, and vitamins that can help to curb the effects of the bug or hasten its departure, but there's no surefire cure for the common cold. One of the best ways to avoid getting the flu would be to keep the healthiest immune system you possibly can. The stronger your immune system is, the better chance your body will merely brush off pesky bugs. This can be accomplished through the use of many different substances.

Vitamin C is one solution commonly referred to when colds abound. Also, Echinacea has seen much popularity as a cold aid. Beta Glucan is one herbal remedy that helps to boost your immune system to superhuman levels. Beta Glucan stimulates macrophages, which your body uses as a 'first line of defense' against bodily invaders. Beta Glucan is naturally found in grains and oats. Maitaki mushroom extract is another substance that has seen some popularity. It is rumored to raise your white blood cell count, which can be enormously helpful in fighting off foreign bodies. Black Cumin extract is yet another solution, which has many healing and anti-viral properties. It helps to protect healthy cells and produces an enzyme called interferon which fights infections.

Last, but not least, is Aloe Vera. Certain sources of it can be powerful in boosting immune function. Liquid Aloe Vera doesn't offer anywhere near the effects of the concentrated, solid form. Of all of these natural remedies, all are classified as herbs with the exception of Beta Glucan.

Take your choice of these (although a combination has been proven more effective) to help ward off the next flu that comes your way.

Herbs hold an obvious appeal for many people because they support the body's natural healing mechanisms to target the cause of the problem, as opposed to merely tackling the symptoms. It would be wrong to present herbal hair loss remedies as a miracle solution for all sufferers - there is however growing evidence to support the view that some herbal remedies offer real hope to many people.

Let's examine the case for some of the more popular remedies to determine if they're worth trying.

Ginkyo biloba - this popular herb is thought to improve blood circulation to the brain and skin. Herbalists believe that the increased flow of blood to the brain area delivers more nutrients to the hair follicle thus promoting hair regrowth. The recommended dose is 120-160mg of dry extract each day spread over three doses.

Green tea (Camellia sinesis) - it is thought that catechins found in green tea may inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone into hair-unfriendly DHT. It is therefore believed to be effective in preventing and treating male pattern type baldness. You should drink several cups of green tea each day or take it in capsule form as instructed by the manufacturer.

He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) - also known as Fo-Ti, this Chinese herb has traditionally been used to reduce hair loss. It is found in many commercial preparations, or in tea and capsule form.

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum) - derived from the bark of an evergreen, it works in a similar way to green tea. It is widely used to treat prostate problems and male pattern baldness. Users should take 60-500mg per day in pill or capsule form.

Saw palmetto (Seranoa repens) - this is the current treatment of choice for many men due to its ability to protect the prostate, slow hair loss and encourage hair regrowth. It forms the core element of many commercially prepared hair loss treatments but can easily be obtained in its pure form. The recommended dose is a 160mg capsule twice each day, but make sure the ingredients are made from the berry extract not the dried berries themselves.

Stinging nettle (Urtica diocia) - this has long been favored as a means of preventing hair loss due to its ability to block the conversion of testosterone into DHT. It can be taken in pill or capsule form with an optimum dose of 50-100mg per day. It is particularly effective when combined with pygeum and saw palmetto.

The market offers several medicines and manufactured devices which could alleviate, if not totally cure snoring. And if these treatments fail, the last recourse suggested by the doctors is surgery, and this could be too extreme.

What if you hate medicines, and you have a phobia towards blades, will you just take the disgrace brought by snoring throughout your lifetime?

Probably, the question would stress you out if you do not know that herbs could possibly treat snoring. It is for real; you can stop snoring in the natural way.

Several schemes to stop or prevent snoring are very much available today, but the safest of them all is the natural supplements, more than the prescribed drugs, it is the commonly used treatment for snoring.

However, terming supplement as natural does not directly means that it can be taken with no recommendation. A lot of natural substances can be slightly intoxicating and may possibly hamper additional medication.

Hence, it is suggested that you consult first a medical expert's advice as much as possible before taking natural supplements to stop snoring. If not, conduct more researches. Additionally, this is further appropriate if you are doing or taking additional medication. Much more if you have sickness, allergy, or other affliction that can probably be affected by this.

Like the medicines taken, the doses of natural supplements must also be observed properly.

There are a few types of people who dislike taking medicines. And it is also a fact that most of the people perceive natural supplements to be more graceful to the humans body.

For this reason, the awareness that herbal or natural health supplements can cure snoring, a number of people will prefer it to treat their snoring problem than to take the recommended drugs, although there are several products that are based on natural ingredients and are said to help in curing snoring.

You can use aromatherapy in treating your snoring. This natural supplement that uses definite oils relaxes the airways. This is due to its anti-inflammatory effect. You may use this in rinsing your throat or by spraying.

Though the method of application is very simple, it is discouraged to be taken by everybody, especially those who have asthma. Also, be careful of the oil not getting into your eyes, bear in mind that oils are inflammable.

The tablets based on natural supplements are also widely suggested to be taken. This lessens the snoring by cleaning excessive mucus and by expanding the air passage. The effect of mucous is the blocking of the insides of the throat and chest. The blocking is often neglected by the person who snores, and this produces a contraction in the airway which triggers snoring. This trouble can be alleviated by the tablets.

If you want more information regarding the use of natural treatments to deal with your snoring, you may try to use the search engine in your search. Use the keyword "Stop snoring using natural treatments," and this will produce a number of results.

You can also consult a homeopathic medicine professional; they can suggest what is good and what is bad for you.

There are already several people who have tried herbal or natural supplements to treat their snoring, you can also try to see the results by yourself.

Lastly, keep in mind, what can be applicable to others that may not be applicable to you.

Skin care is not a topic of recent times; it has been in practice since ancient times, when herbal skin care was probably the only way to take care of skin. However, skin care has transformed in a big way. Herbal skin care routines have been replaced by synthetic/chemical-based skin care routines. The herbal skin care recipes which once used to be common place are not so popular today (and even unknown to a large population). This transformation from herbal skin care to synthetic, can probably be attributed to two things - our laziness (or just the fast pace of lives) and the commercialisation of skin care. Even herbal skin care products have been commercialised. These commercial herbal skin care products have to be mixed with preservatives in order to increase their shelf-life, hence making them less effective than the fresh ones made at home. However, it seems that things are changing fast and more people are now opting for natural and herbal skin care routines. But still, none want to make them at home and hence the commercial market of herbal skin care products is on the rise.

So what are these herbs or herbal skin care mechanisms?

Aloe vera, which is an extract from Aloe plant, is one of the best examples of herbal skin care product. Freshly extracted aloe vera is a natural hydrant that helps in soothing skin. It also helps in healing cuts and treating sun burns.

A number of herbs are known to possess cleansing properties. Dandelion, chamomile, lime flowers and rosemary herbs, are a few examples of such cleansers. Their herbal skin care properties get invoked when they are combined with other herbs like tea.

Antiseptics are another important part of Herbal skin care. Lavender, marigold, thyme and fennel are good examples of herbs that are known to possess antiseptic properties. Lavender water and rose water also form good toners.

Tea plays an important part in herbal skin care. Tea extracts are used for treatment of skin that has been damaged by UV radiation.

Oils prepared from herbal extracts present another means of herbal skin care. Tea tree oil, Lavender oil, borage oil and primrose oil are some popular oils used in herbal skin care. Some fruit oils (e.g. extracts from fruits like banana, apple and melon) find use in shower gels (as a hydrating mix)

Homeopathic treatments and aromatherapies also come under the umbrella of herbal skin care remedies.

Herbal skin care is good not only for the routine nourishing of skin but also for treatment of skin disorders like eczema and psorasis. Most herbal skin care products don't have any side effects (the most important reason for preferring them over synthetic products) Moreover, herbal skin care products can be easily made at home, hence making them even more attractive. So, herbal skin care is the way to go. However, this does not mean that you totally discard the synthetic products. Some people go to the extent of debating with their dermatologist, if he/she suggests a synthetic product. You should accept the fact that some skin orders might need usage of clinically proven non-herbal skin care products.

India has one of the lowest rates of diabetes and much has to do with the type of food, particularly the spices used in cooking such as turmeric, curry and chili powder. In fact it has been shown that these spices can help diabetics regulate their blood sugar.

Here is a list of essential herbs which you should take to help you lower your blood sugar, control your cholesterol and may even help you lose weight:

Gymnema Sylvestre is one herb that has been used in India for centuries to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. It grows in the Southern tropical regions in India. In one study 400 mg of Gymnema extract was given to 22 type 2 diabetic patients along with their oral medications. All of them experienced improved blood glucose control and 5 of them were able to discontinue their drug use. Direct application of this herb to the tongue helps people eat fewer calories at a meal. It enhances the action of insulin. Recommended dosage is 200 mg two times a day.

Bitter Melon as the name implies is not easy to take. It's a cucumber like plant that grows in Asia, South America and Africa. It's strength lies in its ability to lower blood sugar. Just 2 ounces of the juice was shown to improve glucose levels in 73% of type 2 diabetics.

Fenugreek seeds were often used in folk medicine to treat diabetes. 15 to 50 grams taken twice daily helps to lower blood sugar. The active ingredient is the soluble fiber along with the alkaloid trigonelline. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetics can benefit. Considering its bitterness, it's not very palatable to swallow in capsule form. Use is as a condiment or as a spice like the East Indians use.

Salt Bush is native to the Middle East. Just 3 grams taken daily has shown to provide improved blood sugar regulation in type 2 diabetes.

Bilberry, known as European blueberry, was used in France since 1945 to treat retinopathy, the deterioration of the retina in the eye, one of the many complications from diabetes. It protects the macula of the diabetic eye. Many diabetics have found improved vision using supplements from 80 to 16o mg 3 times a day.

Gingkgo Biloba is one of the oldest living trees that has survived over 200 million years. This tree is so adaptable that one survived the nuclear blast at Hiroshima. Over a thousand scientific studies have been done over the last 40 years showing the value of ginkgo biloba in effective treatment of diabetes. The extract is widely prescribed in Europe today. It's an effective antioxidant. It improves the body's circulation and expands the small capillaries that nourish the extremities in the eyes, hands and feet. It inhibits the stickiness of cells, and helps reduces inflammation and allergic responses. It improves overall circulation in the body.

Ginseng is one of the oldest herbs known. Not only does it lower blood pressure but it has the ability to raise it too. Just 3 grams before a meal can reduce blood sugar spikes in type 2 diabetics. American ginseng helps to stimulate the beta cells of the pancreas and thus increase the output of insulin. Native Americans used this herb extensively. Korean ginseng helps to increase insulin sensitivity in the cells of the body and thus lower blood sugar. One of its interesting side effect is the improvement of sexual function.

These are just some of the major herbs that can help you control your blood sugar. Consider using them to help you fight the disease and avoid the complications that often afflict many diabetics.

Making your own herbal concoctions for medicinal purposes is really not that difficult. And since the best herbal preparations are those made when the plants are fresh, the better off you are to grow your own herbs and make your own preparations.

But even the best plants can be ruined if you use the wrong kind of process in preparing your remedies. Your choice depends on the parts of the plant to be used, the form in which the remedy will be taken, and the desired result.

Remember that herbal remedies are not one-shot wonder cures. Their effectiveness is based largely on a gradual cure.

The following ways of preparing your fresh herbs are those most commonly used in herbal medicine. Always use an enamel or non-metallic pot.

Infusion - this is a beverage made like tea, combining boiled water with the plants and steeping it to extract the active ingredients. The normal amounts are about 1/2 to 1 ounce of the plant to one pint of boiled water. You should let the mixture steep for five to ten minutes, covered, and strain the infusion into a cup.

Cold Extract - preparing herbs with cold water preserves the most volatile ingredients, while extracting only minor amounts of mineral salts and bitter principles. Add about double the amount of plant material used for an infusion to cold water and let sit for about 8 to 12 hours, strain and drink.

Decoction - this method or preparation allows you to extract primarily the mineral salts and bitter principles rather than vitamins and volatile ingredients. Boil about half an ounces of plant parts per cup of water for up to 4 minutes. Steep the mixture with the cover on the pot for a few minutes.

Juice - chop and press fresh plant parts to make juice, then add a bit of water and press again. This is excellent for getting vitamins and minerals from the plant. Drink the juice right away for the best results.

Syrup - make a basic syrup to which you will add medicinal ingredients by boiling 3 pounds of raw, brown sugar in a pint of water until it reaches the right consistency.

Powder - grind your dried plant parts until you have a powder. the powder can be taken with water, milk, soup, or swallowed in gelatin capsules.

Ointment - quick method: combine well one part of your powdered remedy with four parts hot petroleum jelly or lard. For purists: Add the decoction of the desired herb to olive oil and simmer until the water has completely evaporated. Add beeswax as needed to get a firm consistency. A little gum benzoin or a drop of tincture of benzoin per ounce of fat will help preserve the ointment.

Essence - dissolve 1 ounce of the herb's essential oil in a pint of alcohol; this method preserves the volatile oils of many plants which are not water-soluble.

Poultice - to make a poultice, you just crush the medicinal parts of the plant to a pulpy mass and heat. Mix with a hot, sticky substance such as moist flour or corn meal. Apply the pasty mixture directly to the skin. Wrap a hot towel around and moisten the towel periodically. A poultice will draw impurities from the body.

Herb Bath - herbal baths include the use of various herbal additives to enhance the natural healing power of the water. They are baths to which plant decoctions or infusions have been added. There are full and partial herbal baths. For a full bath some of the medicinal plant parts should be sewn into a cloth bag and then boiled in a quart of water; the strained mixture is then added to the bath. Sometimes you can put the bag right into the tub for a more thorough extraction of the herbal properties.

These days, there is a great need for overweight Americans to lose those excess pounds. Being healthy would not only lead them to have a healthier lifestyle but it will also literally lighten their load, and improve their overall well-being.

There is a long list of dieting options available. There are exercise programs, exercise machines, dietary supplements, dietary food and drinks, diet pills - there are even soaps which claim to help you lose pounds while you bathe.

One other available option to shed off those unwanted pounds is to go herbal.

Herbal weight loss products have been in great demand for people who want to lose weight the natural way. However, when you take herbal supplements to lose weight, you would have to wait for a longer time for the results because of the more subtle effects of medicines which came from plants and natural herbs.

Here are some herbal weight loss options that you might want to consider:

1. Herbal weight loss products

There are a lot of herbal weight loss products available in the market now. You can check out the Internet and you will find a lot of herbal weight loss pills and products.

Be careful, however, as there are some products which claim to be safe and natural because they are herbal, but some actually have side effects because of non-extensive research on the effects of these products.

Here are some ingredients and chemicals which make up some herbal weight loss products that you should watch out for, as they might have harmful effects to your health:

- Senna. This is an herbal laxative. Senna is a main ingredient in weight loss teas, and it works by stimulation the colon. The downside effect of this herb is dehydration. It can also lead to colon problems and can become addictive. Some people, when addicted, are unable to perform bowel movements without it, so watch out.

- Chromium picolinate. This is a synthetic compound found in herbal weight loss products. Chromium is a nutrient which helps regulate blood-sugar level. However, this ingredient, when taken in high doses, may cause damage in the chromosomes. It can also lead to dehydration.

- St. John's wort. This supplement increases the production of a chemical in the brain. If not used properly, it may cause eye and skin sensitivity, mild gastrointestinal distress, fatigue and itching.

Although a lot of herbal products claim to be safe and natural, it is better to scrutinize the ingredients and research about the effects of the product itself before going for these herbal dietary pills.

2. Organic food.

In Wichita, Kansas, organic food has found its way to more homes and restaurants. Organic food devotees believe that consuming organic goodies help their bodies as well as the environment.

A person who buys organically raised eggs and vegetables claim to be healthier, and they are not spending money on doctors and prescriptions as these keep them healthier and away from the hospital. This could also be an option for weight watchers, as organic food is known to be kinder to your weight than chemically-processed food products.

3. Green Tea.

Studies show that intake of green tea, or green tea extracts burns extra calories. Also, green tea with caffeine can increase fat burning by up to 40% thereby reducing fat.

This is one good option for those who want to lose weight. In a study done, people who took green tea were found to lose 2 to 3 times more weight than those who did not drink green tea.

These results show that green tea is a natural product for the treatment of obesity. Thus, it also makes for a healthier dietary option, not to mention the good effects that it has on the body as compared to caffeine. A cup of tea gives an emmediate energy lift without the side effects of caffeine.

3. Caffeine.

Coffee provides an energy boost to increase fat burning. Caffeine also provides a likelihood to be active, which in turn increases your rate of calorie burn.

4. Immortality Herb

This herb, whose scientific name is Gymnostemna Pentaphyllum, is known to have the following benefits:

- increases healthy blood flow - reduces artery blocks - aids healthy blood pressure - increases the rate of fat burning

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

There are pills and food supplements whose main ingredient is apple cider vinegar. Here are the benefits of taking this herbal option:

- weight loss - improved cholesterol level - improved high blood pressure - helps prevent rheumatoid arthritis

Herbs are fun and easy to grow. When harvested they make even the simplest meal seem like a gourmet delight. By using herbs in your cooking you can easily change the flavors of your recipes in many different ways, according to which herbs you add. Fresh herbs are great in breads, stews, soups or vegetables. Every time you add a different herb you have completely changed the taste.

If you are a beginner start slowly, add just a little at a time adjusting as you go along until you have it just right. You will see in most instances that an individual herb is associated with a particular food item. Basil is paired with tomatoes, Oregano with sauces, Rosemary with lamb and Chives with butter or cream cheese. Of course, none of them are limited to these items, but you will see them paired most often with that particular food. Use your imagination and experiment, experiment, experiment!

You can make herb vinegars for salad dressings, marinades, or soups. Herb oils are very useful in cooking whenever a recipe calls for it.

Fresh herbs as garnishes dress up any dish making it look truly spectacular. Lay individual sprigs of rosemary over broiled lamb chops. Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the top of your potato salad. The combinations are endless and the outcome delicious.

Fresh herbs will keep in the refrigerator for several days but then you must freeze them. They can be frozen by laying them a paper towel and putting them in a plastic bag. Once they are frozen only use them in cooking not as garnishes. A friend of mine washes them, puts them an ice cube tray, covers them with water and then freezes them. When she needs them for soup, stews or sauces she just drops a cube in.

My favorite herbs to grow are basil, oregano, lemon balm, parsley and mint. Mint is great but be careful, mint can over run your garden. A tip here would be to bury an empty coffee can and plant the mint in it. The can prevents the mint from "creeping" all through your garden.

I love to make herb butters. Take a half of a cup of softened butter and mix in about 4 tablespoons of a fresh herb. Lay out a piece of saran wrap, place the butter in the middle roll the saran wrap up to form a "log" out of the butter. Put in the refrigerator and anytime you need a pat of butter just cut it off the "log". (Hints for "log" butter: potatoes, bread, steaks, noodles or any kind of sauce).

A fresh herb in any salad dressing really makes it sparkle. You can use any herb or a combination, be creative.

I learned a trick a long time ago using basil, lemon and avocados to create and instant natural face mask. Put a big handful of basil in a blender and run it on high. Once the basil has been pulverized, throw in a half of an avocado and a large teaspoon of lemon juice, mix until smooth. Wash your face, pat it dry and gently rub the avocado mixture on. Leave it on as long as you like, then use warm water to it wash off.

These are just a few ways you can use fresh herbs from your garden. I am sure you will come up with many more. Happy cooking

In any number of cookbooks and recipes you will find advice on which herbs go with what. I'm not going to take that route.

While there certainly are marriages that are tried and tested, such as tomatoes and basil or lamb and rosemary, the reality is that the use of herbs is every bit as much a matter of personal taste as any other aspect of cooking.

Consequently, what I want you to do is to sample as many herbs as you can and try to marry up the flavors with the foods you are familiar with. That's not as difficult as it sounds. Just close your eyes and think about it.

You will find, after a while, that you will instinctively know which flavoring to use, when to use it and how much of it you need.

Do this with both fresh and dried herbs. Crush a little between finger and thumb and smell it. This is much more important than your sense of taste.

Something magical will happen. You will come to realize that fresh herbs are not better than dried ones, they simply impart a different flavor. There are two major exceptions to this.

One is mint, which has a strange musty flavor when dried, and the other is chives, which are so delicate that the flavor rarely survives cooking. Using dried chives is therefore pretty pointless.

One other point to watch out for is that some dried herbs can remained inedible even after thorough cooking. Rosemary is a very good example of this and needs to be filtered out of any liquids in which it has been used as a flavoring.

In any case, fresh or dried, it is better to chop up herbs such as this before using them.

Using herbs in cooking

Many herbs, such as basil and coriander (sometimes called Chinese parsley and cilantro in the USA) are terrific simply torn up in salads. Note that I said torn up and not cut; only cut herbs if you intend to cook them.

It's important to recognize that some herbs lose flavor with extended cooking, even in their dried state. Fortunately it's fairly easy to spot which those are.

Tough leaved herbs such as bay can be safely added at the start of cooking time and will maintain their flavor. In fact, they may need to be in the food for as long as possible in order for their flavor to fully develop.

Herbs with light and delicate leaves, however, will lose their flavor very quickly once in contact with heat. To use basil in a soup, for example, you needed to add it, not to the hot liquid as you might expect, but rather to the warm plate you intend to serve the soup in. Then pour the soup on top of it.

Alternatively, simply sprinkle it on top of the soup and leave it there. It will make an attractive decoration and impart a wonderful aroma as you take the soup to the table.

What's that? You want to use a tureen and server the soup at the table? No problem. Sprinkle the herb in its raw state on top of the soup anyway. The effect, when you remove the lid, will be the same. Just stir it in as you serve.

The spices of life

Most people, including most professional chefs, use spices that have already been prepared.

That is to say they have been ground up, ready to use. The main exception to this is probably black pepper, which you should always grind yourself. Not difficult. You can buy a pepper grinder just about anywhere and the peppercorns are available in any supermarket.

Of course you can, if you wish, go to the trouble of buying a pestle and mortar, tracking down the raw spices and then grind them yourself.

If you do this, you will be richly rewarded with deep and penetrating flavors. You may also find that you get tired of doing it very quickly. However I would highly recommend it for a special occasion, or a wet weekend in Bargo!

Generally speaking, though, the shop bought variety are fine, providing you don't keep them hanging around in a cupboard for too long. They will lose their flavor.

As with herbs, it's very important that you learn the taste and smell of each individual spice and, uniquely, its pungency. This last item is one that is frequently overlooked, even by experienced cooks.

Just about everybody is aware that chili needs to be used carefully for obvious reasons. But for some reason they do not pay the same attention to turmeric - which is quite delicate - and, say, star anise which can strangle an incautious palate at a hundred paces.

Both give themselves away, however, if you simply take the lid off the jar and sniff them.

Mixing spice

Generally speaking, it is a rare thing to add more than a couple of spices to the same dish. The obvious exceptions to this are Asian and Indian dishes, where the carefully blended mix of flavors will be both traditional and subtle.

You have a choice with these. You either follow a recipe, or you use one of the many excellent pre-prepared pastes that are now available. I tend towards the latter choice, although I do still mix my own spices from time to time.

You should do the same. It's fun and you learn a great deal about which spices mix well and which are best kept as an individual flavoring.

However you choose to cook with spice, treat it with respect and always add it a little at a time, tasting as you go.

Remember also, that the flavor will change with the length of cooking time. It may deepen, or it may lessen in its effect. Only experience will teach you what each individual spice does and how quickly it does it.

One excellent way to test the effect of adding spice, is to cook your rice with something like cardamom seeds. These come in little pods that needed to be cracked open and the seeds extracted.

Do this by placing them on a stable surface, place the flat of a cleaver blade over them and apply a bit of pressure. They will open easily. Use about two pods for one dish of rice.

You could also add some turmeric to the same rice dish. This will turn it yellow and also add a subtle flavor which complements the pungency of the cardamom. Call it saffron rice if you like, very few people will be able to tell the difference.

Rice is a good way to test any number of flavorings. Personally I find it a bit boring on its own, and I frequently add something to it to jazz it up a little. Experiment. You will be pleasantly surprised at what a difference a new flavor can make.

You will also be pleasantly surprised at your growing reputation.

Many people nowadays are turning to "organics" and "naturals" otherwise known as herbals. The rising popularity of herbal supplements has created a new fad if not a new health lifestyle. But before you join the bandwagon, here are some things you need to know about this mean, "green" dietary supplementing machine.

What is the difference between a drug and a dietary supplement?

According to the definition set by food and drug administrations in different countries, drugs are chemicals that can prevent, prolong the life, treat other effects of a health condition, improve the quality of life, and/or cure ailments and diseases, or alter the function of any part or chemicals inside the body. These drugs have approved therapeutic claims. For example, paracetamol is a drug given to bring down the body temperature in fever. Ascorbic acid is indicated for the treatment of scurvy. Iron supplements are given to treat mild cases of anemia.

Herbal supplements are not classified as drugs but as dietary supplements. The main difference is that they do not have approved therapeutic claims unlike in the case of drugs. Moreover, dietary supplements could either contain vitamins, minerals, herbals, or amino acids, all aimed to add to or supplement the diet of an individual. They are not intended to be taken alone as a substitute to any food or medicine.

Most of the manufactured medicines we now have once came from animals and plants. Through the years, chemists isolated the life-saving or life-curing components and separated them from the harmful ones. This lead to the further drug research and drug development that lead to the production of a different variety of drugs for many ailments and conditions from synthetic sources. But still we have semi-synthetic drugs, as well as drug that more or less approximate more natural composition. Since herbal supplements are made from a mixture of crude herbs reduced into powder or gel form, and later on packaged as tablets and capsules, there is a possibility that life-threatening or at least body chemistry-altering components are still present, thus the expression of concern from the medical community.

Is there a growing concern with the use of herbal supplements?

Yes. With the rising popularity of using and consuming anything herbal or organic is the proliferation of fake herbal supplements that threaten to endanger lives. If that's the case, then why are herbal supplements given drug administration approvals? One way of ensuring the safety of the people is to have all candidate drugs, food, drinks, and dietary supplements registered with the proper authority. Otherwise, they would pose more risk with these things being sold in the black market for a hefty sum. We could ensure the quality and safety of herbal supplements if they get proper classification with the food and drug administration. Moreover, people may be able to file the proper complaints in the event a worsening of health condition is proven to be linked to the use of a particular herbal supplement.

Is using herbal supplements worth the risk?

Yes. It cannot be discounted that many who have tried herbal supplements experienced an improvement in their health-whether this is due to the herbals themselves or due to a placebo effect, as long as they do not worsen the condition of an individual, then using them is worth the risk. But of course, certain things must be considered before taking those herbal supplements: Your doctor knows best.

First of all, clear your condition with your doctor. Ask him/her if taking a particular herbal supplement is safe given your health condition. People with heart, liver, or kidney trouble or malfunction, are usually not advised to take these, or at the minimum is to take these herbals in minimum amounts. All substances pass through the liver and kidney to be processed and filtered respectively. Kava, which is used to relieve people from stress, has been pulled out from the Canadian, Singaporean, and German markets because it contains substances that cause liver damage. Certain herbals such as Ephedra used for losing weight, contains chemicals with heart-inducing effects that can increase heart rate, which in turn can exhaust the heart and cause heart attacks in several documented cases by the American Medical Association.

Follow the directions for use.

Never take more herbal supplements than what is directed by the doctor or as instructed on the bottle. Each individual reacts differently to the components of herbal supplements. While it is perfectly safe for one individual to take in a supplement of primrose oil capsules, another person may be allergic to it. So, do not even think about downing one bottle of

It has no approved curative effect.

No matter how the product pamphlet or the label of the bottle sounds about how it has been found to be helpful in certain health conditions, these herbal supplements are not therapeutic. So do not substitute these for the medications prescribed by your doctor for the treatment of certain diseases, or for the maintenance of blood pressure, lowering of blood sugar and cholesterol, and fight off infections.

Herbs are fun to grow and easy to use. Herbs can be a frugal cook's best friend because they can enhance even the simplest fare making it seem grand! Herbs are easy to grow--you can even grow them on your kitchen windowsill.

The addition of herbs can change completely the flavor of foods-from homemade breads to soups, stews and vegetables. And they can add variety and excitement to your diet.

A beginner should use herbs with care, adding a little at a time and adjusting to your own taste. Each herb has its own individual flavor and certain herbs also have well-known associations with particular foods. Basil is often paired with tomatoes, rosemary with lamb, chives with cream cheese and cottage cheese.

Fresh herbs are wonderful as garnishes. Herb vinegars can be used in salad dressings, soups and marinades. You can also add fresh herbs to mayonnaise or butter for a different flavor.

Fresh herbs will keep in the refrigerator for several days. A good way to freeze herbs such as basil, oregano, and dill is to chop, place in ice cube trays, cover with water and freeze. Then just add to stews and sauces when needed.

Some easy herbs to grow are lemon balm, rosemary, oregano, dill, basil, parsley, peppermint, lavendar, sage. Of course, you can buy herbs to cook with at the supermarket, also.

Here are some simple recipes to get you started using herbs in your cooking.

Lemon Chive Dressing

1 clove garlic
dash of salt
Rind of 1 lemon, finely grated
and the juice
1 1/2 teaspoons mustard
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped chives

Put the garlic and salt in a bowl and crush together. Add lemon rind, juice and mustard, stirring until smooth. Slowly whisk in the oil. Fold in chives and season with black pepper, if desired.

This is a good dressing to pour over warm, cooked new potatoes. Add finely chopped green onions.

Mint Iced Tea

Wash 8 sprigs of fresh mint, 12 inches long (any mint, spearmint, peppermint, applemint will do). Place in blender with 4 cups water and liquefy. Let it set for about 1/2 hour and strain.

Herb Butter

1/2 cup butter
4 tablespoons fresh herbs or 2 teaspoons of dried herbs

Soften the butter to room temperature. Finely chop the fresh herbs. Blend herbs and butter well. Store in fridge.

Use to season vegetables, as a spread on bread, biscuits or baked potatoes. Anywhere you normally use butter.

Here's something different: not really cooking, but a recipe that you might find fun! Basil-Lemon Facial Mask

Pulverize a handful of fresh basil leaves. Peel 1/2 of an avocado and mash. Add avocado to basil in blender, along with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon honey. Mix until smooth.

Apply to clean face and leave as long as desired. Rinse off with lukewarm water.

In short, you don't have to be an herb specialist to learn to enjoy using herbs.

Planning an herb garden can be fun and rewarding. Herbs have been in use for centuries for culinary, medicinal and aromatic reasons. For generations tribal leaders and healers passed down the herbal secrets. Many modern medicines have an herb base. Modern herbalist mix medicinal herb for their clients. Many herbalists also mix aromatic herbs for beauty purposes. But, of course, the culinary herb is still the most widely used. You can become a kitchen gardener by growing an herb garden right in your kitchen on a sunny windowsill.

For the discussion of herbal gardening today we will plant the herbs found in the Elizabethan Era and so often mentioned in William Shakespeare's works. The plants selected will be culinary herbs, medicinal herbs and aromatic herbs, all to experience the aromas and flavors of that time.

Herbal gardening is wonderful since the herbs can be grown in a variety of ways. Plant a container garden for you deck or patio for great colors, different textures and super aromas. Planning an herb garden in the ground will allow you to cultivate a traditional kitchen herb garden outside. Or if you have limited space, become an inside kitchen gardener and plant your herbs on a windowsill or in a window box.

When planning your herb garden remember that the herbs need well drained soil, they hate wet feet. Test your soil for the herb garden and make sure it is alkaline. All Herbs need at least six hours of sunlight.

When Elizabethans planted aromatic herbs, culinary herbs and medicinal herbs they used either a symmetrical rectangular or square patterns. The Elizabethans were very formal and felt their herb gardens should be too. Their herbal gardens had walkways, as strolling through the garden was a popular pastime. They had no TV'S! If you are planting your herbal garden near a patio, think about adding a strolling path for yourself. The paths will add character to you herbal garden.

In planning an herb garden be sure to take in to consideration the growing habits of each herb. Plant the taller busier herbs in the back of the garden, the small, compact ones in the front. Most herbs are perennials meaning they will grow back each year. Any of the herbs that need to be planted annually should go in a spot in the herb garden that is easy to get to. Give each herb plenty of room to grow. The herbs need air circulation to prevent mold. This stage of planning an herb garden is essential since once the plants become mature they do not like to be moved.

When you plant an herb garden, you can either start from seeds or get small plants from your garden center. The garden center plants will give a better chance of achieving success in the herb garden. When using seeds, plan ahead because the seeds may need to grow for several months before they are ready to plant into the herb garden. Especially if you are a beginner, I would recommend using the small plants from the garden center.

Go to a reputable garden center to purchase you herbs. Inspect your herbs closely to make sure they are healthy. One infected plant can ruin your whole herbal garden. When using the small herbs from the garden center you will be able to harvest your herbs much sooner. When you take the herbs out to be planted in the herbal garden, gently remove the plant from the pot and loosen the soil around the roots. Place the herb in the spot you have chosen or the container that you have prepared. Cover all of the roots with soil and gently tamp down. Give your new herbs plenty of water checking the moisture each day. Never let the soil dry out but don't make your herbs roots too wet. If you are planting a container garden remember that the dirt in a container will dry out more quickly then the ground. You might find that the herbs will droop for a couple of days. Don't fret that is shock but they will recover.

Once you have learned the herbs growth patterns you can start pinching off to get a bushier herb. When you first start out, keep a journal for your herb garden to keep track of each herbs strengths and weaknesses. After you get to know your herb garden you will be able to tell when the plants need attention.

Over the centuries herbs have evolved into very hardy plants. Once you herbal garden is established it will need very little care. To hold moisture for the herb longer, mulch around the plants. This is a good garden tip whether you plant the herbs in container gardens or in the ground.

Herbs are natural insect repellents but if you have to treat for pests be sure you use a non toxic treatment since you will be eating your harvest. Marigolds are a natural repellent so you may want to plant of few of these flowers. Planting companion plants is how most Shakespearian gardens were done.

Harvest can begin as soon as you have several leaves on the herb. It is best to cut your herbs before they begin to flower for the best flavor. This is when the most oils are stored in the leaves. Wait until any morning dew has dissipated before cutting but harvest before the full sun is out. You can cut your herbs right before you wish to use them. If the stems are tender these too can be used in your recipes.

If you have an abundant harvest you can freeze or dry the herbs. Dry them by hanging them upside down, in a bunch tied together, in a warm and dark place. You can microwave them by placing them between two paper towels and microwaving for 2 minutes. Put them in an air tight container, they will last up to 1 year.

Freezing the bounty of your herb garden will let them last a little longer, a year to year and a half. Chop up the herbs and place on a sheet of wax paper. Freeze for at least 2 hours. Another method is to put the herbs in ice cube trays with water. Freeze until firm, pop them out and put them in to zip lock bags. When ever you need the herbs for soups, stews or sauces, just throw in an herb ice cube.

Now, here is the list of Shakespearian Herbs to plant in your Elizabethan herb garden including culinary herbs, aromatic herbs and medicinal herbs. It will truly make you a kitchen gardener.

Bay, box, Broom, Calendula, Chamomile, Chives, Heartsease, Hyssop, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Parsley, Peppermint, Rosemary, Rue, Salad Burnet, Summer Savory, Bachelors Buttons and Thyme. For more information on each herb, email me or search on the internet.

Happy Gardening!

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

About the Author
Mary Hanna is an aspiring herbalist who lives in Central Florida. This allows her to grow gardens inside and outside year round. She has published other articles on Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at http://www.GardeningHerb.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.ContainerGardeningSecrets.com