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Alfalfa Leaf belongs to the Fabaceae pea family and is a flowering plant grown as a forage crop. This is a perennial of the cool season that exists from three to twelve years. The survival of Alfalfa depends on the climate and variety. This is grown widely as forage for cattle and is also harvested as hay. These can also be made into grazed, silage or can be fed. It is the crop that is less used as pasture and is widely used as hay crops enjoying highest feeding value. If the crop is well adapted, it yields well. Alfalfa is the important legume employed in agriculture and the United States is the biggest producer. The other areas are Argentina, South Africa, Australia and Middle East. In Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore district this is grown well. The basic use of Alfalfa is dairy cattle feed and is given as it is high in proteins and has digestible fiber. This is also given to horses, beef cattle, goats and sheep. The alfalfa sprouts are eaten by humans in sandwiches and salads. It is available commercially in various forms such as powders, tablets and tea.

Aloe represents four hundred species of succulent plant and the common and popular is the aloe or Aloe Vera. This is a genus and is commonly found in South Africa. This is as well found in the adjacent areas such as the Arabian Peninsula, islands of Africa and Madagascar. This belongs to the Aloceae and the lily family. Members of allied genera such as Haworthia, Gasteria and Kniphofia exhibit identical growth and are known as aloes. The aloe species have thick, large and fleshy leaves. These leaves have a sharp apex in association with a spiny margin. Aloe is cultivated in gardens as well as in pots. It is considered to be ornamental plants and also has medicinal effects. Aloe Vera is used to treat wounds by the Romans and reeks. The processed aloe is used as a laxative as it contains aloin, while the aloe vera juice that is processed does not have aloin and is hence useful for digestive healing.

Apple Cider Vinegar, which has been said to contain up to ninety different healthy substances such as carbolic acids, four aldehydes, twenty ketones, eighteen types of alcohols, ethyl acetates and more. Apple Cider Vinegar also contains important minerals, trace elements and vitamins as well as acetic acid, lactic acid, propionic acid, enzymes and amino acids.

Apple Pectin is a dietary fiber and is of immense use in maintaining proper digestive health. Apple pectin rich fruits include apple, plum, currant and peach. The unripe fruits contain protopectin and this gets converted into pectin when they get ripe. The apple pectin is a colloidal water solution and on cooling becomes a gel. With appropriate sugar the fruits are cooked and when the pectin present is sufficient it is used in jellies and jams. However, overripe fruits become pectic acid and cannot form jelly in combination with sugar solutions. Apple pectin is a intestinal regulator and is widely used in medicinal preparations. Apples are always rich in pectin, the soluble fiber and are also one of the best in lowering cholesterol levels. This is also accepted as an anti-diarrhea agent. People eating fatty foods can wash down with apple juices. Apples have the rich pectin. Apple pectin cleanses the intestinal tract. It increases acidity in large intestines and is recommended for people suffering with colitis and ulcer. Pectin prevents gallstones as well and lessens diabetes.

Burdock Root is found in Asia and Europe. Burdock root has medicinal qualities and is in use for herbal remedies. This root is tasty as it is sweet and has gummy consistency. Budrock is used as remedy for arthritis, measles, throat pain, colds and diuretic. Budrock root is employed in oncology and is useful in treating various health problems. Budrock root is used for purifying blood and is useful in removing toxins. It is used orally and also topically for skin disorders. Budrock root soothes aching joints as well. Chinese healers combine with other plants to cure cold, measles, tonsillitis and throat pain. Burdock root is well-known in Japan and is a good source of nutrients and vitamins. Budrock root is supposed to be tested systematically. Budrock root is effective in bloodstream cleansing, treating gout, relieving pain from arthritis, ulcers, eczema, rheumatism and psoriasis. It has properties in curing cancer and is found effective in treating impotence and barrenness.

Caffeine- The bitter, white crystalline xanthine alkaloid caffeine is found in tea, coffee, soft drinks, chocolates, pain relievers, and a variety of over the counter medications. It is a psychoactive stimulant drug that causes increased alertness by stimulating the central nervous system. For the same reason, many people feel more energetic after consuming it. It even elevates the mood but these effects do not last for long. The effects of caffeine usually last for about five to six hours, though caffeine sensitivity varies from person to person. It has been found that people who consume lot of caffeine on a daily basis soon develop less sensitivity and may need to increase their intake to enjoy the same effect. Being a diuretic, a person consuming caffeine may have to urinate more often.

Cayenne peppers are rich in vitamin A and C, calcium and other nutrients. They cure fever, colds and sore throats. They improve the digestive process. They protect the heart by strengthening arteries and regulating blood flow thus preventing heart attacks. External use reduces discomfort and swelling due to frostbite and joint pains by increasing blood flow to the area. Cayenne oil reduces toothaches effectively. Cayenne powder keeps hands and feet warm by improving blood circulation, when sprinkled into gloves or shoes. It is also known to reduce itching. A water-cayenne mixture helps to stop external bleeding. It reduces internal bleeding by even distribution of blood in the body. It also increases vigor and stamina. You must consult a physician before using cayenne for medicinal purposes.

Chromium Polynicotinate is a nutritional supplement designed primarily as nutritional support for certain conditions that are typical for sufferers from diabetes mellitus type 2 or age related diabetes. Recent studies have revealed that supplemented chromium can reduce high blood glucose levels, lowering or eliminating nonenzymatic glycation. Further studies reveal that supplementing chromium polynicotinate can help with depression symptoms as well as reduce systolic blood pressure elevation caused by sucrose. People with chromium deficiencies have trouble maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Chromium polynicotinate can assist in regulating the levels of blood sugar, but it also helps with the control of cholesterol, promote the fat removal process and encourage buildup of lean muscles. For these characteristics it is a popular supplement for body building and any muscle building sports enthusiasts.

Dandelion is a valuable herb possessing culinary as well as medicinal uses. Dandelion is a variable perennial growing to nearly 12 inches. They are spatula like leaves and are toothy, shiny and hairless. The stems of dandelion have bright yellow flowers. These flowers are light sensitive and opens only in the morning. Dandelion is opulent with vitamins A, B, C and D. it also has minerals like potassium, iron and zinc. The leaves of dandelion enhance the flavor to sandwiches, salads and teas. The flowers of dandelion are used in making wines and the roots are found as coffee substitutes. Dandelion leaves and roots as per traditional medicines were used in curing liver problems. The dandelion decoctions were used by the Native Americans to treat skin problems, kidney disease, heartburn, stomach upset and swelling. The Chinese practitioners used dandelion to cure appendicitis, digestive disorders and breast problems. Dandelion roots are used as digestive aid, appetite stimulant and for gallbladder and liver function.

Fennel Seed , which helps remove mucus and fat from the intestinal tract and is also a natural appetite suppressant.

Flax seed is rich in alpha linolenic acids that offer numerous health benefits to mankind. In fact, flax seed has actually become our modern miracle food considering the fact that it helps in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the body and also helps us reduce blood triglyceride and blood pressure. Given the amount of stress associated with urban living, people have become susceptible to a wide range of health problems that include diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, flax seed plays a major role in minimizing the risk of heart attack, since it keeps the platelets from becoming sticky. Flax seeds also have a high content of lignan, a type of phytoestrogen (antioxidant) that helps in cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer.

Garlic belongs to the onion group and is a cultivated plant. It is grown in the Latin countries. The Garlic leaves are narrow, long and flat and the bulb comprises of bulblets that is referred to as cloves. All these cloves are enclosed within a skin in a white sac. Garlic is not only significant for medicinal purpose, but is also used widely for seasoning. Garlic is common ingredient in Europe and is consumed largely in the regular diet. Garlic contains stimulant and stomachic properties that are useful for diuretic, diaphoretic, stimulant and expectorant. The healing powers are marvelous. Garlic juice also serves as suppuration in wounds. Garlic is said to avert cattle anthrax. Earlier garlic was used for leprosy. Garlic syrups are appropriate for asthma, coughs, lungs disorders, chronic bronchitis and for breathing difficulty. Garlic is seasoned with all types of food mainly because it is known for its medicinal powers.

Ginger Root- Ginger is a spice which originated in Asia, where it is grown primarily in India and the Southeast of Asia. Currently it is used all over the world for culinary purposes. Several other uses, besides that of a spice, have been encountered, like in Ginger Ale, ginger tea, but also ginger beer. Gingerbread is perhaps the most popular example of ginger use, but historically it has been labeled as a stimulant and a carminative. Indonesia traditionally uses herbal preparations with ginger, which is supposed to reduce fatigue and help control all kind of digestive problems. Ginger is also known to help with morning sickness and is an ingredient in motion sickness remedies. Nausea in many forms, including chemotherapy, is treated with ginger as well.

Glucomannan, a water soluble dietary fiber that comes from the konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). Glucomannan is a laxative used to create larger, bulkier stool.

Grapefruit Extract- A lot can be made from a grapefruit. The grapefruit extract is made from the pulp, white membranes and seed of the grapefruit. It is also known as the citrus seed extract. Grapefruit is one of those rare fruits whose all parts are of some use or the other. The fruit itself gives a tangy juice. Aromatherapy oils can be made with peels. The peels are also used as a source of dietary fiber. Grapefruit is said to be the most alkalizing of all fruits. To alkalize the body is one of the best ways to regenerate health. Alkaline environment is a hostile environment for diseases to live in. It also helps in stimulating the human immune system. It helps in preserving the intestinal bacteria along with its integrity in return making life sustainable.

Hawthorne Berry, also called White Thorn, Haw, May Blossom, Hay Berry and May Day Flower. Hawthorne Berry is red in color and comes from a spiny tree called the hawthorne shrub. Hawthorne Berry is believed to be good for the heart and is commonly used to expell excess salt from the body to reduce water retention. Hawthorn Berries contain vitamins C and B complex, crataegin, carotene, flavonoids and sugars.

Irish Moss- The North Atlantic seaweed Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus) has made its way in health care, cosmetics, and food industry due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Also called as Pearl Moss, this edible seaweed was used extensively by the Irish in the nineteenth century during famine. It acts as a skin softener nourishing and turning dry, rough, patchy skin into smooth, silky, skin thus protecting it from environmental elements. The efficiency of Irish Moss in treating duodenal and peptic cancers, cancer and radiation poisoning, obesity and cholesterol build up is being studied. Irish Moss causes an anticoagulant effect on the blood and is believed to clear up bladder complaints. The sea weed is also a good source of calcium, sodium, iodine, and magnesium that are vital for normal thyroid function.

Oat Bran refers to the external oat grain husk. This is usually discarded in the milling process. This is regrettable as it contains the best of the dietary fiber and also has good amounts of minerals. The grains are normally marketed as whole grain, but oat bran is sold separately. Nowadays, oat bran is available in the markets easily. The cereal grains have three parts namely, the bran, endosperm and the germ. The endosperm is used in making white flour. The germ is nutrient rich and is usually extracted in association with the bran. The bran is highly rich in fiber and also protects the grain thereby offering nutrition and fiber to the plant. Oat bran is used as additive in baked goods such as muffins as it has a rich and distinctive texture with a nutty flavor. Oat bran is added to breads owing to its fiber content. It also is supplemented to breakfast cereals. Cooks also supplement oat bran to scones, cookies and pancakes. The fiber content is truly very beneficial in decreasing the levels of cholesterol and is a preventative for various cancer forms. It is integrated to make a healthy diet.

Peppermint is a medicinal and culinary herb that is popular in the world. It has the capacity to decrease indigestion as well as colonic spasms. Peppermint tea was popular in Europe as a medicine to cure fevers, colds, nervous tension, headaches, insomnia and also to decrease disorders such as colic, dyspepsia and flatulence. Peppermint is good for gall bladder treatment and bile deficiency. The peppermint oil is effective to relieve smooth muscle spasms and other gastrointestinal tract. Peppermint oil is a saliva stimulant and is good in relieving chest pain and indigestion. The peppermint leaf tea is useful for menstrual cramps treatment and is also a good sedative. Peppermint also thwarts mental fatigue. The peppermint oil contains antimicrobial properties to fight against bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Peppermint oil is used for inflammation of mucous membranes and also to combat any abnormal growth. Peppermint tea can be taken thrice or five times a day. The major component being menthol can result in allergic reactions. Hence, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Psyllium Husk, is one of the highest sources of dietary fiber. Psyllium husk is a great colon cleanser, it can absorb up to 50 times its weight with toxins and other items from the intestines.

Red Clover Leaf is native to Asia and the eastern Mediterranean regions. It is found on roadsides and also in lawns. Red clover leaf grows to a height of 16 inches. The leaves are oval in shape with a V mark known as chevron in the center. The red clover flowers are purple in color and are in egg shape. They come as three part leaves. Trifolium is the genus name indicating three leaves. Red clover leaf belongs to the leguminosae family or the pea family. The other members as well include peanuts and beans besides peas. These plants take nitrogen from the environment ad biologically help other plants in growth and fixation. Red clover leaf is used as a mild sedative, expectorant and blood purifier. The tea prepared with this leaf is useful for bronchitis, asthma and respiratory spasms. Red clover leaf is useful for sores, skin ulcers, burns and athlete’s foot. Red clover flowers are useful in wine and in treating menstrual problems.

Red Raspberry Leaf is the best pal of gardeners. This is because though it has small prickles, it gives luscious berries in abundance. This plant is now found in gardens in the North America temperate regions. This plant is indigenous to Asia and Europe as well. They are common fruits used in fruit salads, fruit juices, preserves, jams, breakfast bars, fruit syrups, tarts and many other foods. Ted raspberry leaves have health promoting characteristics. They are filled with vitamin C and phenolic antioxidants namely tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanin pigments. The red raspberry leaf has bitter and harsh flavor, but is excellent with medicinal power. Tea prepared from red raspberry leaf is useful to cure wounds, upper respiratory disorders, colic pain and childbirth difficulties. The leaf tea is good for diarrhea treatment. The tea prepared using red raspberry leaf can be taken five to six times in a day. it has the ability to cure diarrhea as it is rich with tannins and they reduce intestinal inflammation. The raspberry leaf is also an effective mouthwash.

Sage Leaf Extract.

Uva Ursi , is a diuretic (water reducer) that causes weight loss by causing the body to expel excess water. Uva Ursi is also used to treat urinary tract infections.