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Damiana
This herb is a popular remedy for many female disorders.
It is regarded as a remedy for menopause and a tonic
for the reproductive system.4 It transports oxygen to
the reproductive system and stimulates muscle contractions
in the gastrointestinal tract.2 It aids with sexual
and hormonal problems.2 Duke also lists it as a popular
folk remedy for cold, cough, diabetes, dysentery, dysmenorrhoea,
dyspepsia, headache, impotence, infections, inflammations
and stomach ache.3 Products: PriMale.
Dandelion
Rich in vitamins and minerals including beta-carotene,
calcium and potassium, dandelion is useful in treating
kidney and liver disorders. It detoxifies the liver
and bloodstream and increases the flow of bile from
the liver. It also increases the activity of the pancreas
and spleen. Numerous clinical studies have shown that
dandelion "...has impressive bile-stimulating actions
which helps promote liver and gallbladder function."4
In addition, research further validates its use in stimulating
the elimination uric aid, treating anaemic conditions
of the blood and jaundice.4 Studies conducted by Norman
Farnsworth, Ph.D., professor of pharmacognosy at the
University of Illinois at Chicago have shown that dandelion
contains insulin substitutes needed by diabetics.1 Products:
Complete Chromium and In Control.
Devil's Claw
This herb is a popular herbal remedy for arthritis,
gout and rheumatism due to its anti- inflammatory properties.
It is also regarded as a tonic for the vascular system.4
In Europe, it is used for dyspepsia, loss of appetite,
allergies, hepatitis, heartburn, renitis and cystitis.3,5
In South Africa, it is used for fevers and digestive
disorders.6 Studies conducted in Germany verify the
plants anti-inflammatory properties compared with the
popular anti-arthritic drub, phenylbutazine. In addition,
compared to this drug, it also reduced cholesterol levels
and high uric acid levels while reducing arthritic pain.3
Products: Arth-X Plus and PowerHouse Plus.
Chaste Tree Berry
Chaste tree berry comes from the ripe dried fruits of
Vitex agnus castus. It is used to correct irregularities
of the menstrual cycle and for symptoms associated with
Premenstrual Tension. Other uses include: treatment
of impotency, swelling of testes, sterility, amenorrhoea,
uterine pain, insufficient milk production and swelling
of the ovaries. According to the PDR, chaste tree, tested
on the ovaries of older animals, resulted in a reduction
of cystic and bleeding follicles. In studies, chaste
tree berry demonstrated a positive effect on symptoms
related to hyperprolactin anaemia.6
Dong Quai
Well-regarded by practitioners of Oriental medicine,
this herb is regarded as an excellent tonic for the
uterus. It aids irregular, painful periods and pre-menstrual
syndrome.4 Practitioners use it for cancer, hepatitis
and sterility.3 In Chinese medicine, it is administered
to pregnant women to assure a healthy pregnancy and
easy delivery.3
In addition, it can lower blood lipid levels and as
a folk remedy is used for, "asthma, blood disorders,
cancer, conjunctivitis, constipation, cough, dyspepsia,
eczema, fever, haemorrhoids, hoarseness, infection,
inflammation, obesity, skin ailments, sores, swellings,
spasms and urogenital ailments."3
Dong Quai corrects hormonal imbalance, postpartum and
menopausal conditions as well as aiding painful menstruation.4
With regards to menopause, dong quai may help relieve
hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Barney recommends taking
dong quai with vitamin E to enhance its effects on the
reproductive system.4 Clinical studies in both animal
and human studies indicate that the ferulic acid and
lugustilide content of the herb that discourages spasms
and relaxes blood vessels.4
Cautions: Persons with haemorrhagic disease should
avoid using dong quai as should pregnant women during
the first three months of pregnancy.4 Products: Perfect
Balance, Transcend.
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