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Alfalfa
Extolled as the most versatile herb, alfalfa's use was
recorded centuries ago by the Arabs, who fed it to feed
their horses. They noticed that the herb improved the
animals' strength and stamina. 1 Alfalfa is rich in
minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorous,
potassium plus the full spectrum of vitamins.2 Further,
the minerals in alfalfa are alkaline which has a neutralising
effect on the gastrointestinal tract.2
In addition to minerals and vitamins, alfalfa contains
chlorophyll, which has been shown to aid in numerous
disorders such as arthritis, gastrointestinal ulcers,
gastritis, anaemia and infections to name a few. Alfalfa
also contains enzymes that assist in the proper assimilation
of food within the body. According to the Handbook of
Medicinal Herbs, alfalfa is used to treat, "arthritis,
boils, cancer, dysuria, fever, gravel and scurvy. Practitioners
of traditional Chinese medicine consider their alfalfa
deobstruent, depuratie, diuretic, and stomachic, using
it to treat the five viscera, and especially intestinal
and renal disorders."3 Products: Arth-X Plus, Complete
Calcium, Complete Cal/Mag, Complete Chromium, Complete
Zinc, ConcenTrace® Tablets, Electrolyte Stamina Tablets,
PowerHouse, PowerHouse Plus and Within.
Astragalus
This herb is rich in polysaccharides. It is considered
to be an excellent stimulant for the immune system as
it supports T-cell function. Asian practitioners have
relied on astragalus for years to treat poor immune
function, viral infections and high blood pressure.4
It acts as a tonic protecting the immune system. It
also enhances adrenal gland function and digestion.2
Recent research supports its use in treating myasthenia
gravis, which is a chronic disease characterised by
variable degrees of muscular weakness which may progress
to paralysis.4 In clinical trials, astragalus stimulated
antibody formation and increased T-cell proliferation.5
Its effects on cardiovascular health, also include a
study in which, "The herb demonstrated a strengthening
effect of left ventricular function and an effect of
anti-oxygen free radicals for a cardiotonic action."5
Products: ImmunoMax.
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