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Health Information and Articles > Materia Medica of Detoxification Herbs

Materia Medica of Detoxification Herbs

This is a section from Dr. Linda Page's book, Healthy Healing's Detoxification.

This materia medica is a short, quick-look catalogue of notable herbs for detoxification and cleansing. While many of the herbs have a wide range of therapeutic activity, the elements discussed in this listing are those that specifically relate to their cleansing activity.

Alfalfa
Aloe vera
Astragalus

Barberry
Barley grass
Bee pollen
Beets
Bilberry
Black walnut
Boneset
Borage
Buchu
Buckthorn
Bugleweed
Bupleurum
Burdock
Butternut bark

Capsicum
Cascara bark
Chaparral
Chlorella
Cleavers
Comfrey root
Cornsilk
 Cranberry

Dandelion

Echinacea
Eleuthero, Siberian
Ephedra

Fennel seed
Fenugreek seed
Fo-ti-tieng

Garlic
Ginger root
Ginkgo biloba
Ginseng
Goldenseal
Gravel root
Green tea

Hawthorn
Horseradish root
Horsetail
Ho-Shou-Wu

Kombucha mushroom
 Lemon balm
Licorice root
Lobelia

Ma huang, ephedra
Maitake mushroom
Marshmallow
Milk thistle seed
Mullein
Mushrooms, medicinal
- Kombucha
- Maitake
- Reishi
- Shiitake

Nettles

Oregon grape

Parsley
Pau d'arco bark
Peppermint
Plantain
Psyllium husk

Red clover blossom
 Reishi mushroom
Rhubarb root
Royal jelly

Sage
Sarsaparilla root
Sea vegetables
Senna
Shiitake mushroom
Slippery elm
Spirulina
St. John's wort

Una de gato
Usnea
Uva ursi

Watercress
Wheat grass
Wild cherry bark
Wormwood

Yarrow
Yellow dock root
Yerba santa
Healthy Healing's Detoxification

World renowned naturopath and best selling author Dr. Linda Page shares her hard won experience with detoxification and shows you how to cleanse safely and naturally for the best results.

Healthy Healing's Detoxification

Look Inside This Book:


Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Family:
 Leguminoseae
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves, flowering tops and seeds.
Dosage:
 tea: 6 oz. 3x daily; tincture: 5 - 10 drops 3x daily; extract: 1/2 to 1 tsp. 3x daily; capsules: 2 caps 3 - 4 times daily with meals.
Nutrition Profile:
 a highly nutritive herb, rich in vitamin C (can even counteract scurvy), carotenes, vitamin K, amino acids, octacosonal and a full spectrum of minerals and trace minerals; an excellent source of fiber and chlorophyll with a balance of elements almost identical to human hemoglobin. One of the world's richest mineral foods, pulling up earth sources from root depths as great as 130 feet!
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Alfalfa binds and neutralizes a wide range of carcinogenic agents in the colon, and is a proven nutritive for colon cancer protection... As a green superfood, alfalfa helps neutralize allergens, overcome anemia and jaundice, and balance over-acidity. It is used therapeutically for arthritis, bursitis and gout, stimulating removal of inorganic mineral deposits from the blood. As a blood clotting agent, it counteracts internal bleeding from ulcers. It is an estrogen precursor for menopause. Alfalfa is beneficial for indigestion, in reducing blood sugar levels, in lowering cholesterol and in the prevention of tooth decay. It is a healer for a wide range of intestinal and skin disorders, liver problems, breath and body odor, even morning sickness.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With pau d' arco and mineral-rich herbs like carrot root to help detoxify, rebuild and restore foundation body strength. With dandelion for better digestion and to detoxify the liver. With yucca to help relieve pain and inflammation of arthritis.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Alfalfa

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis, Aloe vera)
Family:
 Liliaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 bottom leaves yield the most gel with the most healing potential.
Dosage:
 external: cover affected area 3x a day; internal: 1 tsp. of juice 3x daily as a cathartic. Effective in ridding children of roundworms by injection: 10 grains to 3 oz. of water.
Nutrition Profile:
 Aloe has medicinal amounts of protein for healing, almost 18% dietary fiber, up to 5% of 22 amino acids and all B complex vitamins. Aloe contains active enzymes for enzyme therapy. Skin-building nutrients include vitamin E, selenium and silicon.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Aloe juice penetrates injured tissue, relieving pain through anti-inflammatory activity; dilates capillaries to increase blood supply to an injured area. Aloe is a colon, bowel and digestive cleanser. Both aloe vera gel and juice are beneficial for gastrointestinal complaints, like diverticulitis, peptic, gastric or duodenal ulcers, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Aloe treats liver symptoms like jaundice and cirrhosis. (Tests on liver cirrhosis show that after six months of aloe treatment normal liver enzymes are achieved.) Aloe also contains a substance which inhibits liver cancer. Because of its blood cleansing qualities, drug detoxing patients treated with aloe have fewer complications than those given regular therapy. Synergistic with vitamin C in treating arthritis, aloe helps prevent or slow tissue breakdown and reduce inflammation.
Safety Precautions:
 Large doses of aloe are purgative; large doses can cause rectal piles. Don't take internally during pregnancy or nursing (it will purge the suckling child).
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 A tea of aloe, fennel, catnip and St. John's wort cleanses the liver and reduces stomach cramping. As a poultice: with comfrey (50:50). With ginger as a liver tonic.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Aloe Vera

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) (Huang chi)
Family:
 Leguminosae
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 for health maintenance: 2 capsules 3x daily at mealtime; for recovery from illness: 4 capsules 4x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 high in flavonoids, amino acids and trace minerals including selenium. Rich in key nutrients like folic acid, calcium, iron and potassium. Immuno-active polysaccharides are responsible for its amazing immune-defense power.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Astragalus is a toning diuretic in kidney inflammation formulas. It nourishes exhausted adrenals to combat fatigue. It is a strong antiviral agent, producing extra interferon in the body. Promotes the regeneration of bronchi cells after a viral infection. Astragalus stimulates immune system white blood cell activity to help destroy invading microorganisms. Damaged immune system cells taken from cancer patients have been restored to full function in tests with Astragalus extract. Astragalus also increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and lymphatic tissue to stimulate their development into immune cells. Astragalus is especially useful in the rebuilding and maintaining stages of a cleanse to increase disease resistance against repeated infections.
Safety Precautions:
 Do not take if you have an acute disease, high fever or severe inflammation.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 For anemia: a tea with equal parts astragalus and angelica, 2 cups daily. For cold and numbness: a tea with 2 parts astragalus bark and 1 part cinnamon bark, 1 cup twice a day. In combination with ligustrum to boost the immune system.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Astragalus

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)
Family:
 Berberidaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 bark of stem and root, and berries.
Dosage:
 Barberry is a "bitters" herb, take in small doses. Capsules: 2, 3x a day; tincture: 1/2 to 1 tsp.; tea: 2 - 3 tbsp. 3x a day; extract: 10 - 20 drops every 3 - 4 hours (extract has the widest range of effects).
Nutrition Profile:
 rich in vitamin C and fiber, the root has about 6.6% protein. Has measureable B vitamins, and the minerals calcium, chromium, cobalt, magnesium, potassium, selenium and silicon.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Barberry's bitters compounds improve digestion, stimulate bile production, dilate blood vessels and have a mild laxative effect for cleansing. Anti-microbial against a wide range of organisms, including candida albicans yeast, and several intestinal parasites. Diarrhea is a common symptom of candidiasis--barberry has remarkable anti-diarrhea activity even in severe cases. Barberry's astringent compounds tighten and shrink inflamed tissues. In the upper digestive organs, (liver, stomach and duodenum), barberry's bitters break up and remove morbid matter from the intestinal tract, while helping bile to flow more freely through a stagnant liver and gallbladder, important for liver problems. Barberry helps clean out bronchial mucous clogs, and is a recuperative tonic for bronchitis and the early stages of tuberculosis. Barberry dilates the blood vessels, so it's good for high blood pressure. It is a specific for diseases like cholera and its side effects like scabs, itch, tetters, and ringworm.
Safety Precautions:
 Use only root and berries--small doses for best effects. (Leaves and seeds contain methylcysticine a poisonous purgative in large doses.) Do not take if there is digestive weakness. Avoid use as a single herb during pregnancy. A high dose may slow down the heart muscle and respiratory system, constricting the bronchial tubes. Discontinue if the tincture causes nosebleeds or dizziness.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With turmeric to regulate liver function. With cayenne, golden seal and lobelia is a specific for jaundice and hepatitis. Equal parts with wild yam root helps eliminate gas. With goldenseal, burdock, yellow dock, fringe tree and wild cherry as a body cleanser.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Barberry

Barley Grass (Hordeum vulgare)
Family:
 Gramineae
Medicinal Parts:
 stem and juice
Dosage:
 2 - 3 capsules 3x daily, or one to two tsp. daily. For recovery: 6 - 8 capsules daily. For weight loss: take before meals with an 8 oz. glass of water.
Nutrition Profile:
 Barley has a broad spectrum of concentrated vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins, chlorophyllins and antioxidants. Considered a "superfood," and an exceptional source of protein and essential amino acids, barley has eleven times the calcium of cow's milk, five times the iron of spinach, and seven times the vitamin C and bioflavonoids as orange juice. One of its most important contributions is to the vegetarian diet with 80mcg of vitamin B12 per hundred grams of powdered juice. Barley also contains glucan, the same fiber found in oat bran to reduce cholesterol levels. Barley (along with alfalfa) is one of the few foods that contains enough nutrition to sustain life from birth to old age.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Barley, rich in chlorophyll, normalizes metabolism and neutralizes heavy metals like mercury in the body that precipitate disease. Its small molecular proteins are absorbed directly through the cell membranes to purify and rebuild blood, and promote anti-aging. A compound in barley grass, 2-0-GIV, has antioxidant properties similar to vitamin E, that cleanse the cell membranes. Mega antioxidant enzymes in barley (including SOD, super-oxide dismutase) stop free radical attacks, destroy nitro-compounds, (environmental pollutants which build up in the body) and stimulate healing. Barley eliminates fecal matter and toxins in the colon. A green drink with barley is a tonic, regenerating drink--a chlorophyll-containing aid to the digestive system, an ideal anti-inflammatory food for healing stomach and duodenal ulcers and hemorrhoids. It's a specific for blood sugar balance, particularly in cases of hypoglycemia and diabetes. Barley grass acts directly on DNA to repair cellular damage, and boosts the cells' ability to fight diseases like cancer.
Safety Precautions:
 None in common use.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 with spirulina, bee pollen and alfalfa to restore strength after exhaustion or illness. With vitamin c and sea vegetables, to neutralize and cleanse the body of heavy metals
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Barley

Bee Pollen
Medicinal Parts:
 High quality, unsprayed, dried granules.
Dosage:
 Pollen granules, 2 tsp. daily; capsules: 1 to 2 daily for longterm maintenance. Use only unsprayed pollen for therapeutic applications. Short term, a therapeutic amount of bee pollen is about three times the preventive amount.
Nutrition Profile:
 A highly bio-active, complete food, bee pollen is completely balanced for all 105 of the known nutritional ingredients. No other food contains as many enzymes... an estimated 5000, with 22 amino acids, 27 minerals and all known vitamins, in fact every nutrient needed to maintain life. Bee pollen has 35% protein, about half of which is in the form of free amino acids (excellent for healing). It contains 5 to 7 times more amino acids than beef, eggs or cheese of equal weight. Bee Pollen is rich in chromium, vitamin A, B-complex vitamins (especially B12) and vitamins C, D and E. It has one of the highest food amounts of rutin, for tissue strength. Bee pollen is a low-calorie food with 15% lecithin that helps burn away body fat. It is also 40 to 80 percent free-form glutamic acid, which can cross the blood/brain barrier, accounting for its ability to curb cravings for alcohol and increase powers of concentration.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Bee pollen enhances a feeling of youthful vitality and provides energy. It is valuable for weight control because it helps correct metabolic chemical imbalance. Well-documented evidence shows pollen counteracts the effects of severe toxins like radiation and environmental chemicals. More importantly, bee pollen antioxidants are clinically proven to strengthen immune response. Recent clinical tests on women with inoperable uterine cancer, show that pollen significantly reduces the side effects of both radium and cobalt-60 radiotherapy at a level of 2 tbsp. a day. Red and white blood cell counts and serum protein levels both increase. The women reported notably better health, with stronger immune responses than those who did not take pollen. Pollen is regularly used in Russia to improve the immune status of patients with M.S. Pollen effectively helps chronic diarrhea and constipation, rheumatism with heart complications, kidney and liver disease, anemia (increases amount of hemoglobin), intestinal infection, fatigue, circulatory disorders, depression, colitis and prostatitis. Bee pollen's main use is as a tree pollen and spore antidote during allergy season for control and neutralization of seasonal allergy symptoms. It relieves respiratory problems like bronchitis and sinusitis.
Safety Precautions:
 Pesticides used on the plants where bees gather pollen affect an extremely small number of people. Discontinue if itching, dizziness or difficulty swallowing occurs. Start with small doses.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With panax ginseng, Siberian ginseng and "green superfoods" such as chlorella, alfalfa and spirulina; and with CoQ10 for immune enhancement.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Bee Pollen

Beets (Beta vulgaris)
Family:
 Chenopodiaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves and root
Dosage:
 Four capsules 3x daily with water at mealtime.
Nutrition Profile:
 Beets owe their medicinal benefits to the active ingredient betaine, a substance that helps vitalize the blood. Betaine is an essential hepatotropic, a lipotropic amino acid similar to methionine. Betaine acts on the methylation cycle of liver cells and the conversion of triglycerides for fat transport. It is a good source of vitamin A, specifically indicated for fatty degeneration of the liver.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Beet juice is a blood detoxifying, blood builder that cleanses eliminative, digestive and lymphatic systems, then enlivens with rich minerals and natural sugars. Beet juice is an anti-inflammatory, scouring medicinal, especially effective for the kidneys, making beet juice a good choice for a cancer program. Beet juice also aids liver and spleen function to cleanse toxic waste. It can help restore organs damaged from alcohol abuse.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 A tea with vinegar heals itching, cleanses dandruff and dry scabs, and relieves running sores and ulcers.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Beets

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Family:
 Ericaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 fruit and leaves
Dosage:
 For diarrhea, boil 3 tbsp. for 10 minutes in 1/2 liter of water. Extract: 15 drops 2x daily; capsules: 180 mg. per day for preventive purposes, 300 mg per day for therapeutic purposes.
Nutrition Profile:
 Bilberry is rich in vitamin C, bioflavonoids, manganese, phosphorus, iron and zinc. The fruit has as much as 13% protein and 31% EFAs. Bilberries contain important medicinal compounds called anthocyanosides, bioflavonoids that provide a wide range of benefits.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Bilberry extract is well documented for reducing and reversing damage caused by blood vessel deterioration or inflammation. It supports, strengthens and protects collagen structures, inhibits bacteria growth, and produces anti-carcinogenic benefits. It clears toxins and restrains infection. Its anthocyanodins are active free radical scavengers to boost immunity. Anthocyanodins also have cardiac protective, anti-aging activity for impressive effects on the circulatory system. Regular use of bilberry reduces hardening of the arteries by preventing oxidative damage, thus limiting calcium plaque deposits, and maintaining flexible blood vessels. Research shows impressive effects on circulation, restoring normal blood flow in patients ranging from 18 to 75 years old. Bilberry promotes kidney cleansing and urination, to help prevent urinary tract infections. Bilberries help heal inflammation of the intestinal mucosa that accompanies chronic constipation. Flavonoids increase mucous secretion that protects the stomach lining. Also used to treat intestinal parasites, diarrhea and vaginal disharge. Externally, bilberry extract ointment helps dermatitis, eczema, dandruff, burns and inflammations, and speeds recovery from grazes, bruises and swelling. Bilberry helps promote a clearer fresher complexion due to its astringent effect, lessening the marks of cellulite, strengthening collagen structures.
Safety Precautions:
 Bilberry leaf contains hydroquinone; if used for diabetes or bladder infections, it should not be taken continuously. Use for 3 weeks, then take a break for a week.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 An energizing tea: equal parts of bilberry, thyme and strawberry leaves.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Bilberry

Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
Family:
 Juglandaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 fruit, leaves and bark, green nut, rind, hulls and root.
Dosage:
 leaves are used for skin conditions as a tea or 1 - 3 capsules, two times daily; hull extract: 10 - 30 drops three times a day.
Nutrition Profile:
 Black walnuts are rich in oil and high in food energy, with almost as much protein as sirloin steak! The nut is rich in linolenic, linoleic and oleic fatty acids, (important for nerves, brain and cartilage), juglone (believed to have antifungal properties), in vitamin B15, and manganese. The hulls are especially high in tannins, vitamins A, B, C and E and organic iodine, useful in anti-parasite cleansing.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Black walnut hulls are useful in cleansing programs for the organs, lungs, kidneys and brain. The bark helps chronic constipation (a cleansing purgative), and liver congestion. The bark and leaves are astringent, antiseptic cleansers useful as a douche for leucorrhea, as a vermifuge for amoebic dysentery and as a mouthwash for mouth sores or sore tonsils. One study finds that several constituents of black walnut even have anti-cancer activity. Black walnut oxygenates the blood to rid the body of excessive toxins and fatty material, and is especially effective in expelling parasites. The extract of the hulls is good internally and externally for skin diseases, eczema, genital herpes, psoriasis and skin parasites. Chinese medics use black walnut to kill tapeworm with excellent success.
Safety Precautions:
 Avoid during pregnancy.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 For giardia (amoebic dysentery): equal parts: black walnut, goldenseal root, mugwort or wormwood, chaparral and licorice root. For cold sores: equal parts with licorice root.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Black Walnut

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
Family:
 Compositae
Medicinal Parts:
 tops and leaves
Dosage:
 tea: 3 oz. three times daily. Drink 4 to 5 cups while in bed to encourage sweating; capsules: 1/2 to 1 gram; extract: 1/2 to 1 tsp. three times daily; tincture: 10 to 40 drops three times daily; 2 tbsp. tincture added to hot water can be used for sweating to break fevers.
Nutrition Profile:
 Boneset contains vitamin C, calcium, some PABA, magnesium and potassium.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Boneset is closely related to gravel root and has similar cleansing constituents. As a hot tea, boneset is widely used and practically unequalled in its effectiveness as a reliable diaphoretic, providing slow, gentle perspiration to clear flu and cold infections. As a cold tea, it works as a soothing tonic on the stomach, liver, bowels and uterus, relaxing the muscular structures, and clearing areas of waste buildup and congestion. Liver detoxification helps clear the skin, bilious fevers, and other inflammation (like that associated with arthritis and rheumatism.)
Safety Precautions:
 Overdose may result in flu-like symptoms.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 To treat flu, combine with yarrow, elder flowers, cayenne or ginger. Use with ginger and anise for coughs for children. Use as a fomentation with hops for tumors.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Boneset

Borage (Borage officinalis)
Family:
 Boraginceae
Medicinal Parts:
 the whole plant and the oil
Dosage:
 extract: 2 - 10 ml three times a day; powder: 12 to 20 grains; tea: 2 teaspoons dry herb steeped 10 - 15 minutes, three times daily; oil: 500mg daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 the most potent natural, currently known source of GLA (22% gamma-linolenic acid) which shows promise in the treatment of alcholism and diabetes, Contains vitamin C, and large amount of salts of potassium and calcium salts. The fresh juice has almost 30 percent potassium. The stems and leaves supply rich saline mucilage, responsible for the invigorating properties of borage.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Borage purifies the blood by promoting kidney activity. It is anti-inflammatory against pleurisy and pneumonia. It may be used as a tonic for exhausted adrenals as a restorative agent for the adrenal cortex, especially after cortisone or steroid drugs. It is a remedy for jaundice and ringworm. Borage is used for heart and lung congestion. Its demulcent properties make it effective against ulcers, both internal and external. The leaf tea can be a poultice for external inflammations.
Safety Precautions:
 Pyrrolizide alkaloids are present in very small amounts. Though used by traditional people around the world for thousands of years, borage is not the type of nutritive tonic herb to take regularly over a period of months. It is more of an occasional acute remedy for fevers and might be considered safe to use as a sole agent for no more than three to seven days maximum.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With marshmallow or mullein as an expectorant.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Borage

Buchu (Barosma betulina)
Family:
 Rutaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves
Dosage:
 2 cups tea daily; 20 drops three times a day; three 200mg capsules three times a day.
Nutrition Profile:
 The essential oil has antiseptic properties and is highly bacteriocidal.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Buchu is effective for chronic cystitis, irritation of the urethra, first stage diabetes, urine retention, nephritis and cystitis. It is highly regarded for cleansing the kidney and urinary tract, increasing the quantity of urinic fluids and solids, acting at the same time as a tonic, astringent and disinfectant. Its volatile oil is excreted virtually unchanged by the kidneys, rendering the urine itself antiseptic.
Safety Precautions:
 too strong a diuretic to use during pregnancy. Don't use during acute inflammatory conditions or serious kidney infections. Large doses produce mouth burning, nausea, severe diarrhea, heart palpitations and sweating. Breaks of several days are advisable every two weeks.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With uva ursi for water retention. For urinary tract infections: with juniper berry and gentle, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory herbs, like cornsilk or marshmallow. With yarrow, uva ursi or couchgrass for cystitis.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Buchu

Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)
Family:
 Rhamnaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 the branch and young tree bark
Dosage:
 Fluid extract: 15 drops per dose; decoction in teaspoon doses; syrup: 1 - 2 tablespoons daily for a purgative effect.
Nutrition Profile:
 contains anthraquinones and bitters for better digestion and elimination.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 A gentle laxative for chronic constipation--does not cause cramping, is not habit forming, relieves hemorrhoids. Buckthorn is a blood cleansing tonic remedy for gallstones, hardening of the liver and spleen, lead poisoning, clearing toxic blood, gout and rheumatism. Taken hot, diaphoretic properties cause perspiration and help lower fevers.
Safety Precautions:
 Bark must cure for at least one year prior to use or it acts as an irritant on the gastrointestinal tract, causing griping pains and nausea. Contraindicated for pregnancy.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 For persistent constipation, combine with senna, peppermint and caraway seed, or with chamomile and fennel as a tea.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Buckthorn

Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)
Family:
 Labiatae
Medicinal Parts:
 the whole fresh flowering herb
Dosage:
 infusion: three times a day; tincture: take 1 - 2 ml three times a day.
Nutrition Profile:
 flavone glycosides, volatile oil, tannins
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Treats Graves' disease (an overactive thyroid condition with tightness of breathing and nervous heart palpitations), where a thyroid-stimulating antibody is found in the blood. The antibody binds to and is inhibited by bugleweed extract. Very useful for relieving widespread pain regardless of location. It is a mild gastric tonic and a remedy for painful indigestion. As a sedative cough reliever, it eases irritating coughs. Bugleweed's cardiotonic properties aid a weak heart, especially where there is build-up of fluid retention.
Safety Precautions:
 Use with caution during pregnancy.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With dong quai, honeysuckle and licorice root for abscess swelling and pain. With nervines like skullcap or valerian as a natural sedative. With motherwort for the high thyroid condition Grave's disease. With kelp, bladderwrack, vitamin C, astragalus, Irish moss, licorice rt., parsley and prickly ash it helps neutralize and release hazardous chemicals from the blood.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Bugleweed

Bupleurum (Bupleurum falcatum) (Chai hu)
Family:
 Umbelliferae
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 3 - 10 grams daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Sakiosaponins found in bupleurum are capable of inhibiting measles, herpes simplex virus. Rich in flavonoids.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 An ideal herb in a detoxification program, bupleurum is a prime liver detoxifier, toner and strengthener. Its antibiotic abilities inhibit micro-organisms like influenza and polio. A tonic immune-enhancer with the ability to stimulate T, B, and phagocyte immune cells. Stabilizes the central nervous system with an antispasmodic quality, especially effective for menstrual cramping. Clears and reduces blood cholesterol levels.
Safety Precautions:
 May cause nausea or vomiting in large doses.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With bee pollen, white pine bk., elecampane, scullcap, royal jelly, ephedra, acerola cherry, and ginger rt. to maintain harmony during high risk seasons. Used with ginseng and gotu kola to promote strong nerves, energy and raise vitality.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Bupleurum

Burdock (Arctium lappa)
Family:
 Compositae
Medicinal Parts:
 root, herb and seeds
Dosage:
 tea: 1 cup 3x daily; tincture: 30 to 60 drops 3x daily; extract: 1/2 to 1 tsp. 4x daily; capsules: 6 - 10 daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 abundant in iron and insulin for the blood. High in chromium, magnesium, manganese, silicon and thiamine. Also high in dietary fiber, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A and zinc.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Burdock is one of the herb world's best blood purifiers. It helps arthritis, rheumatism and sciatica inflammations, reducing swelling around joints and ridding the body of calcification deposits. It helps cleanse the blood of toxins during a weight loss regimen. Burdock is useful for arthritis, rheumatism, gout, asthma and sciatica. It has volatile oils which make it a good diaphoretic which clears the kidneys of excess wastes and uric acid by increasing the flow of urine. Aids the pituitary gland in releasing an ample supply of protein to help adjust hormone balance. Burdock alleviates ulcerated, glandular and white tumors. Documented effects include treatment of venereal eruptions (particularly gonorrhea) and skin conditions, such as ringworm and eczema. Homeopaths prescribe the tincture of fresh root for acne, since most poor skin conditions result from blood toxicity. Herbal formulas for weight loss include burdock to help cleanse the body of toxins. Burdock markedly enhances liver, gallbladder and bile functions. It helps cleanse the body of toxins and wastes that accumulate during illness.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 For detoxifying the liver from addictions: equal parts turmeric, barberry, gotu kola and burdock. With calendula, oregon grape, gumweed, cleavers, black haw for herpes. With sheep sorrel, slippery elm and turkey rhubarb in the cancer-fighting "Essiac" formula.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Burdock

Butternut (Juglans cinerea)
Family:
 Juglandaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 inner bark of young stems and roots, leaves and nut
Dosage:
 decoction: 1 - 2 teaspoons 3x daily; tincture: up to 5ml a day for skin ailments, liver health or slow digestion; infusion: 1 oz. bark in 1 cup of water.
Nutrition Profile:
 contains juglandic acid, juglandin and juglone and tannins.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Used for constipation, sluggish digestion, as a liver cleanser and stimulant, and for skin diseases and fevers. Especially helps skin ailments resulting from incomplete cleansing of the body via the bowels. It has been used as a vermifuge and is recommended for syphilis and old ulcers. The expressed oil of the fruit removes tapeworms.
Safety Precautions:
 As a purgative, it should not be used on fragile persons.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 To combat infections, fevers and colds, some part of the treatment should be laxative to help the body rid itself of bacteria-laden wastes. With barberry, rhubarb, psyllium husk, fennel seed, licorice, ginger, Irish moss and capsicum for evacuation of the bowels.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Butternut

Capsicum (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens)
Family:
 Solanaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 fruit and seeds
Dosage:
 One to 2 capsules with meals or 1/4 tsp. extract 3x daily. Apply powder externally to stop bleeding.
Nutrition Profile:
 Capsaicin, a main constituent of capsicum is rich in carotenoid, iron and zinc. High in Vitamins A, B complex, and C; lower in calcium, potassium and magnesium, to allow the stimulant effects to work at maximum potential.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Capsicum is a catalyst in the blood purification process, stimulating the vital organs to greater activity, promoting cardiovascular activity, lowering blood pressure. Capsicum is popular today as an ointment for relief of arthritis pain, rheumatism, neuralgia, sprains and bruises, for skin ailments like shingles, even gangrene. It increases circulation, and is used as a stimulant for people with sluggish metabolisms. Recent studies point to capsicum's fat burning qualities with proven thermogenesis enhancement; it slows fat absorption from the small intestine. Stimulates circulation in the stomach and intestines to improve digestion. It acts directly as a diaphoretic, stimulating excretion of wastes in sweat. Also effective for fatigue, infections, tumors, and healing stomach ulcers.
Safety Precautions:
 Keep away from the eyes.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With herbs like ginger and garlic protects against colds and flu.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Capsicum

Cascara Bark (Rhamnus purshiana)
Family:
 Rhamnaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 aged, dry bark. The bark must be aged for at least one year prior to use.
Dosage:
 dried powdered bark: 2 - 4 tsp. at bedtime; extract: 2 - 5 ml at bedtime.
Nutrition Profile:
 high in calcium, cobalt, and vitamin A.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Cascara is a cleansing laxative for stagnant conditions and general toxicity, and non-habit forming for chronic constipation. A bitters tonic that stimulates digestive secretions for the liver, gallbladder, stomach and pancreas. It is a proven remedy for colitis, ridding the body of gallstones, indigestion, intestinal mucous congestion, gout, hemorrhoids, and liver disorders, especially an enlarged liver. A specific for chronic constipation and flatulence from gas. Useful for hemorrhoids because of poor, flaccid bowel structure or constipation. There is evidence of anti-tumor activity.
Safety Precautions:
 Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid--transfers in milk. Large doses of the bark may cause inflammation; habitual use can result in diarrhea.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With dandelion, licorice, celery seed, cayenne and wild yam for liver disorders. With butternut bark, rhubarb, ginger, licorice rt., Irish moss and cayenne as a laxative. With red clover, chaparral, licorice rt., Oregon grape, stillingia, burdock, sarsaparilla, prickly ash, buckthorn and kelp for detoxification and toning. With butternut, barberry, rhubarb, psyllium husk, fennel seed, licorice, ginger, Irish moss and capsicum for evacuation of the bowels by normal peristalsis.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Cascara

Chaparral (Larrea tridentata)
Family:
 Zygophyllaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves and stems
Dosage:
 tea 1/2 oz. infused in a pint of water; tincture: 10 - 30 drops, 3 times daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Famous for its primary constituent NDGA, a significant antioxidant, antitumor and anticancer element. Its amino acid content is rich: arginine, tryptophane, phenylalanine, glycine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, cystine and tyrosine. Also contains carotenes, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, chlorine, natural salts, and sulfur.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Chaparral's blood purifying, antioxidant value is legendary. Effective blood purifying uses include kidney infections, respiratory infections, allergies, auto-immune diseases and several types of cancers. It often works for difficult toxic blood conditions when other herbs are ineffective. Chaparral is a specific analgesic to relieve arthritis and rheumatic pain. It is a system toner to rebuild tissue strength. It is one of the best herbal antibiotics, effective internally and externally against bacteria, viruses and parasites. It is used for colds and flu, TB, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, venereal disease, leukemia, acne, eczema, some STD's and tetanus. It is effective externally as a poultice for sores and bruises. I have seen it used successfully in reduced dosage for dogs with certain cancers.
Safety Precautions:
 Because of its potency and swift action, chaparral must be used with care and direction. NDGA in concentrated and overlong use can affect liver health leading to jaundice and possibly hepatitis. Longterm heavy dosages should be avoided to prevent possible formation of kidney lesions.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With echinacea, goldenseal, garlic and usnea to heighten its antibiotic, detox properties.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Chaparral

Chlorella
Medicinal Parts:
 Entire plant
Dosage:
 average nutritional level: 15 tablets per day; poor nutritional levels: 30 tablets per day; very poor nutritional level: 45 tablets per day. Children under 15 should take the number of tablets daily that corresponds to their age in years.
Nutrition Profile:
 Chlorella is 60% protein, rich in minerals and contains 12% chlorophyll, the largest amount of any plant on Earth. The richest food source of vitamin B12, higher than liver or sea vegetables, with a protein yield greater than soy beans, corn or beef. Phytoplankton like chlorella are the most potent source of beta carotene in the world with all B vitamins, vitamin C and E, an abundance of the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), and many trace minerals high enough to be supplementary amounts. Phytoplankton are the only foods, other than mother's milk, with GLA, an essential fatty acid and precursor to the body's master hormones (GLA deficiency contributes to obesity, heart disease and PMS).
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 The cell wall material of chlorella has a particular effect on intestinal and bowel health, detoxifying the colon, stimulating peristaltic activity, and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Chlorella is effective in eliminating heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, copper and cadmium. Antitumor research shows it is an important source of beta carotene in healing. It strengthens the liver, the body's major detoxifying organ, so that it can free the system of infective agents that destroy immune defenses. It reduces arthritis stiffness, lowers blood pressure, and relieves gastritis and ulcers. Its rich nutritional content has made it effective in weight loss programs, both for cleansing ability, and in maintaining muscle tone during lower food intake. Chlorella also enhances tissue growth and repair (beneficial to hypoglycemic and diabetic people), accelerates healing, protects against radiation, prevents degenerative diseases and promotes longer life. It improves the complexion and aids in skin disorders such as eczema, recurrent cold sores, warts, atopic dermatitis and acne. But its most important benefits come from a unique molecular composition called Controlled Growth Factor, that provides a noticeable increase in stamina and immune health when eaten on a regular basis.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use. Synergy With Other Herbs: 1. an herbal revitalizer: American ginseng and chlorella. 2. in a whole green drink with chlorophyllins, trace minerals and full spectrum amino acids: barley and alfalfa sprouts, bee pollen, acerola fruit, Siberian eleuthero, sarsaparilla rt., dandelion, quinoa and oat sprouts and chlorella.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Chlorella

Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Family:
 Rubiaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 aerial portions
Dosage:
 3 - 9 grams of tea infusion.
Nutrition Profile:
 contains chlorophyll, saponins (to prevent red blood cell destruction), tannins (useful as astringents), citric acid, coumarins, trace minerals, glycosides and a mild laxative, asperuloside.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Cleavers is a blood cleansing diuretic with mild laxative activity. Used to dissolve kidney stones and sediment. It eliminates excess fluid, both as a diaphoretic and as a diuretic. It counteracts inflammations, urinary infections, hepatitis and venereal disease. It is an astringent herb for the treatment of psoriasis and various skin diseases. A lymphatic cleanser for swollen or enlarged lymph glands, including prostate disorders, glandular fever and tonsillitis. Also for ailments where toxic conditions and skin problems exist as well as urinary ailments like cystitis and stones.
Safety Precautions:
 Care should be taken if diabetes exists.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With juniper berry, uva ursi, goldenseal and marshmallow as a diuretic and sediment dissolver. To prevent itching, scaling and skin discomfort, use with burdock rt., dandelion rt., echinacea purpurea rt., St. John's wort herb, yellow dock rt., nettle's herb, kelp and tumeric. To gently relieve and relax, use with parsley, cornsilk, uva ursi, dandelion, juniper berry, ginger, marshmallow rt. and kelp.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Cleavers

Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinalis)
Family:
 Boraginaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 root and leaves
Dosage:
 3 - 9 grams, 10 - 30 drops tincture, 1 tsp. extract 3x daily, 30 - 60 grains powder 3x daily, no more than two weeks at a time.
Nutrition Profile:
 A main constituent, allantoin, works like calcium stimulating cell production for healing connective tissue, bone and collagen. High in sodium, calcium, cobalt, iron, manganese, potassium and vitamins A and B2. One of the few plants that can produce vitamin B12 from the cobalt in the soil.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Comfrey leaves and root cleanse the upper respiratory system--effective for asthma, bronchitis, colds, tuberculosis and pleurisy. Helps stop lung hemorrhage accompanying severe inflammation of coughing. The richest source of mucilage, soothing and stimulating mucous membranes, it is also an expectorant, removing toxic material from the lungs. Comfrey is a blood cleansing tonic that treats cystitis, colitis, bladder and prostate infections. It works both internally and externally to promote healing of sores, bones, muscles and tissues. It works well for anemia, arthritis and rheumatism, and for boils, bruises, burns, diarrhea, eczema and other skin infections.
Safety Precautions:
 Although used for thousands of years safely and effectively, recent investigation shows comfrey contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA's), such as echimidine. Whether this is from environmental toxins or is naturally present in the plant, but neutralized by other plant substances, has not been determined. Until a safe source can be guaranteed, comfrey should not be used during pregnancy and nursing or for children. I recommend using an organically grown source for a short limited time, or using comfrey externally until more information on these alkaloids is known. Not for use when on dietary potassium restrictions.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With goldenseal, slippery elm and aloe vera as a laxative to detoxify and heal inflamed tissues in the digestive system. With peppermint, marshmallow, slippery elm, pau d'arco, ginger, aloe vera, wild yam and lobelia as a gentle bowel cleanser when there is irritable bowel disease.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Comfrey

Cornsilk (Zea mays)
Family:
 Gramineae
Medicinal Parts:
 silk hair surrounding ears of corn.
Dosage:
 tincture: 5 to 20 drops 3x daily; extract: 1/2 tsp. 3x daily; infusion: 1/2 cup as needed; powder: 1 to 5 caps 3x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Very high in silicon, high in iron, significant in zinc, magnesium, Vitamin B1, chromium, cobalt, phosphorus and potassium.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Cornsilk is effective for cleansing when there is inflammation of the urethra, bladder, prostate or kidneys. Helps conditions such as cystitis, urinary stones and painful urination, prostatitis, edema from hypertension, and inflamed kidneys. Helps lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and clear arteriosclerosis.
Safety Precautions:
 None in common use.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 To relieve fluid retention, with uva ursi, juniper bry., parsley, dandelion lf., plantain, marshmallow rt., ginger and cleavers. Or with juniper bry., uva ursi, dandelion, marshmallow rt., goldenseal rt., ginger, parsley and honey.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Corn

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Family:
 Ericaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 berries
Preparation Forms:
 juice, powder and douche.
Dosage:
 16 oz. per day of juice.
Nutrition Profile:
 high in phosphorus, potassium, and calcium; contains significant amounts of iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium and B-complex vitamins. Herbal Healing Actions: Antibacterial compounds in cranberries inhibit urinary infecting bacteria from adhering to tract walls so that they are flushed from the system. It is a good source of bioflavonoids and vitamin C for tissue tone. Has anti-cancer, blood purifying and immuno-stimulant effects.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 A specific for cystitis and other urinary tract infections because it helps neutralize acids and dissolve sediment. New research shows excellent results in clearing kidney stones. Now used successfully in the prevention of asthma attacks, dilating bronchial passages during an attack. A good antidote for reducing ammonia urinary odors in the elderly. A natural benzoyl peroxide which is a preventative of acne. It prevents the acne-causing bacteria from penetrating the skin so breakouts are less frequent and less severe.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 In a balancing, cleansing combination rich in bioflavonoids with pau d'arco, cranberry, rose hips, burdock, damiana, echinacea rt., myrrh, lemon balm, cinnamon, hibiscus.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Cranberry

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis)
Family:
 Compositae
Medicinal Parts:
 The root, roasted or raw, and the leaves
Dosage:
 tincture: 10 - 15 drops 3x daily; capsules: 1 - 2 capsules with each meal; tea: 1 cup in the morning and the evening for 4 - 6 weeks.
Nutrition Profile:
 Dandelion is very high in Vitamin A, with balanced mineral content.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Because of its high potassium level, dandelion is an excellent diuretic choice over pharmaceutical diuretics. It can even maintain potassium in the body often leached by over-ambitious pharmaceutical formulas. It is a blood purifying herb that soothes the digestive tract while absorbing toxins, inhibiting unfriendly bacteria, and allowing friendly fauna to thrive. It scours the liver and kidneys, softens deposits, encourages urination and removes intestinal congestion. As a bitters tonic, dandelion helps the liver and gall bladder produce bile for better assimilation. Dandelion is beneficial for a wide variety of ailments including arthritis, rheumatism, gout, skin eruptions, eczema, herpes, acne, abscesses, ulcers, bladder irritation, kidney infections and stones, jaundice, hepatitis, anemia, edema, high blood pressure, tumors, constipation, and heartburn.
Safety Precautions:
 Large amounts may cause heartburn.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 Use with red clover, licorice rt., chaparral, burdock, pau d'arco, echinacea rt., ascorbate vitamin C, goldenseal rt., garlic, kelp, alfalfa, poria mushroom, American ginseng, sarsaparilla, astragalus, yellow dock, butternut, milk thistle seed, ginger, prickly ash and buckthorn bk. for a strong detoxification formula. With watercress, yellow dock, pau d'arco, hyssop, parsley, Oregon grape rt., red sage, licorice rt., milk thistle seed and hibiscus for a liver flush. Use with bancha lf., kukicha and chicory as a cleansing coffee substitute.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Dandelion

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia and purpurea)
Family:
 Compositae
Medicinal Parts:
 root and whole plant
Dosage:
 10 - 50 drops of extract or tincture; 2 to 3 capsules every two hours for acute conditions--three times a day for chronic conditions.
Nutrition Profile:
 high in cobalt, silicon and zinc, chromium, iron, manganese, selenium and in vitamins C, B-3 and riboflavin.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Echinacea is indicated whenever reinforcement for resistance is needed and to stimulate body defense mechanisms--for the onset of colds, flus and other respiratory infections, or for any acute inflammatory condition, like mumps, measles, scarlet fever, rheumatic fevers, urinary infections, venereal infections, food borne infections, bites, stings, Also used for skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis; for congested lymph gland diseases, like chicken pox, ulcers, goiter, strep throat, even cancer and tumors.
Safety Precautions:
 none known in common use
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With ginsengs, goldenseal and other tonifying herbs for rebuilding and restoring health. With red clover, licorice root, chaparral, burdock root for blood purifying.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Echinacea

Eleuthero, Siberian (Siberian Ginseng, Wujiashen) (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 Take 2 capsules dried herb 2 - 3 times daily; or take 1 dropperful of tincture two to three times daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Assists carbohydrate metabolism to normalize blood sugar levels in diabetics. Effective in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. A highly complex herb--contains ginsenoids, polysaccharides, triterpenoids, saponins, lignans, sterols, B complex vitamins, vitamins A, D and E, selenium, amino acids, minerals and enzymes. Its glycosides provide antioxidant influence and overall resistance to chemical factors. Its generous amount of germanium preserves oxygen and stimulates immunity.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Siberian eleuthero exhibits many of the rejuvenative, adaptogen properties of panax ginseng in terms of energy and endurance and raising sexual potency. It is an all-body tonic and an energizer which combats depression and fatigue, and helps the body rebuild system strength after mental or physical exhaustion. It should be a prime part of any immune rebuilding herbal combination to increase body resistance to disease, especially heart disease. In fact, Siberian eleuthero promotes an enormous increase in the number of immune cells (particularly natural killer cells) to support the immune system against infections of all types. It is an excellent nutritive tonic for both the adrenal and circulatory systems, helping the body withstand heat, cold, infection and radiation.
Safety Precautions:
 Not recommended for persons with hypertension. Avoid caffeine while using. Some people may experience insomnia when consuming large doses.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With kava kava, kirin ginseng, American ginseng, prince ginseng, dong quai, fo-ti rt., suma, kola nut and gotu kola for mental inner energy. With American ginseng, Chinese kirin ginseng, prince ginseng, fo-ti rt., suma, gotu kola, wild oat tops and sarsaparilla for active physical energy.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Siberian Eleuthero

Fennel Seed (Foeniculum vulgare)
Family:
 Umbelliferae
Medicinal Parts:
 seeds
Dosage:
 Infusion: 6 oz. 3x daily; fluid extract: 5 to 60 drops 3x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Fennel seeds are high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and vitamin B1, and contain significant amounts of iron, manganese, potassium, zinc, and vitamins B2 and B3.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 In a cleansing compound, fennel is helpful for indigestion, abdominal cramping, urinary incontinence and bladder irritation, urinary stones, nausea and PMS. As an expectorant, it relieves coughs, hoarsness, loss of voice, bronchial asthma. For nausea and vomiting; for inflammation of the eyes and floaters in the vision; and externally for healing snake bites.
Safety Precautions:
 Because they have a stimulating effect on the uterus, fennel seeds are contraindicated during pregnancy. Fennel oil may cause pulmonary edema, respiratory problems and seizures.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With rhubarb root for digestive disorders. To calm and soothe coughs: with wild cherry bk., slippery elm bk. and licorice rt. For digestion in kids: with peppermint, chamomile, papaya, ginger and orange peel.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Fennel

Fenugreek (Foenum graceum)
Family:
 Leguminosae
Medicinal Parts:
 seeds
Dosage:
 tincture: 1 - 2ml 3x daily; powder: 1 - 2 tsp. daily or 1 - 2 capsules with meals.
Nutrition Profile:
 The seed is 30% galactomannan-like mucilage with lecithin, making an excellent choice for a poultice; 20% protein and high in fiber, making the seed a good choice for a cleansing fiber.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Fenugreek helps reduce total and LDL (bad) cholesterol without altering levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, makings it helpful in preventing atherosclerosis. It reduces blood glucose, plasma glucagon, and somatostatin levels including sugar-induced hyperglycemia allowing less insulin doses in diabetics. Fenugreek can reduce the amount of calcium oxalate deposited in the kidneys. It helps relieve excess mucous and respiratory congestion and lower blood pressure.
Safety Precautions:
 Large doses may result in hypoglycemia.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 To help breakdown toxic buildup, use with gotu kola, garlic, red sage, black cohosh, lecithin, goldenseal rt., quassia wood, bilberry, poria mushroom, fennel sd., milk thistle sd., tumeric, kola nut and kelp. For a cleansing combination, use with flax sd., gotu kola, fennel sd., parsley, uva ursi, senna, bancha, burdock rt., gymnema sylvestre, red clover, lemon peel, hisbiscus and bladderwrack. With cranberry juice ext., echinacea ang. rt., coriander, wild yam rt., dandelion, marshmallow, juniper bry., uva ursi and kava kava for a tissue toning formula. For respiratory ailments, use with marshmallow, mullein, ma huang, rosemary, ginkgo biloba, passionflowers, wild cherry bk., angelica, lobelia, cinnamon.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Fenugreek

Garlic (Allium sativum)
Family:
 Liliaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 bulb
Dosage:
 One clove 3x daily; Garlic oil capsules: 3 a day or 3 capsules 3x daily when infection occurs.
Nutrition Profile:
 Loaded in fiber, garlic is high in calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A and C, and B-complex vitamins. It contains 33 sulphur compounds. Garlic's primary benefit comes from its rich antioxidant compounds (at least 15 different), including germanium, chromium, selenium, zinc, vitamins A and C and 17 amino acids.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Garlic's list of cleansing and detox benefits is wide ranging. It is a blood purifying tonic that helps restore good body chemistry against pollutants and allergens. Garlic is a part of almost every kind of detoxification compound, especially those involving digestive waste elimination. It is a specific for removing candida albicans yeast overgrowth. It is effective for almost every type of respiratory congestion problem, from colds, coughs and flu to chronic bronchitis and asthma. Recent tests show that garlic has anti-cancer (especially stomach cancer) and antitumor effects. Garlic is good as an enema for detoxification and to expel worms as a liver stimulant for bile production and as part of a compound to re-establish friendly, beneficial flora in the digestive tract. It is effective as part of a compound for arthritis and rheumatism.
Safety Precautions:
 stomach irritating if taken raw; not for use in medicinal doses during pregnancy.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With echinacea angustifolia, siberian ginseng, rosehips, goldenseal rt., hawthorn, guggul, pau d' arco, astragalus, elecampane, peppermint for herbal defense in high risk seasons.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Garlic

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinalis)
Family:
 Zingiberraceae
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 tea: 2 oz. 3x daily; tincture: 15 to 30 drops 3x daily; extract: 5 - 20 drops 3x daily; caps: 2 to 4 3x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 Ginger is very high in aluminum, manganese and silicon; contains high amounts of magnesium and potassium, and vitamins C, B2 and B3. Contains a wealth of amino acids.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Use ginger for colds and flu, fever, bacterial and viral infections, bronchitis, tonsilitis, laryngitis, stomach upset, ulcers, flatulence and bloating, motion and morning sickness, food poisoning, and PMS congestion. Promotes toxin cleansing through the skin by opening pores and stimulating perspiration. Helps cleanse the bowels and kidneys, and stimulates digestion. It is effective for nausea, gas, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea and dizziness.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With capsicum, wormwood and gentian for indigestion and heartburn. With mullein, pleurisy rt, marshmallow, rose hips, ephedra, licorice, calendula, boneset, peppermint and fennel seed to clear mucous congestion.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Ginger

Ginkgo Biloba (Bai guo) (Ginkgo biloba)
Family:
 Coniferales
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves
Dosage:
 1 tablet 3x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 The leaves contain flavone glycosides, bioflavones, sitosterol and anthocyanin.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Stimulates circulation and supplies oxygen to the brain, specifically to brain-damaged areas. Ginkgo protects and nourishes brain cells, enhances mental alertness and defends against disorders that cause senility or Alzheimer's. It increases circulation in people with hardening of the arteries, helping to return elasticity to cholesterol-hardened blood vessels. Provides specific cardiac protection against stroke and atherosclerosis. Because Ginkgo inhibits PAF (platelet activating factor), it can prevent blood clotting in congestive heart disease, asthma, skin problems and hearing problems. Ginkgo boosts acetylcholine levels--thus the ability to better transmit body electrical impulses.
Safety Precautions:
 In extremely large, high doses, ginkgo may cause irritability, restlessness and diarrhea. The fruit pulp and raw seed are toxic. Direct contact with the pulp may cause contact dermatitis. Swallowing the seeds may cause stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, convulsions, difficulty in breathing and shock. Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. Do not use ginkgo if taking anticoagulants.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 It is a specific in anti-aging and regenerative compounds. For relief of respiratory and circulatory conditions, use with mullein, wild cherry bk., pleurisy rt., plantain. and horehound. For asthma, use with marshmallow rt., fenugreek sd., mullein, ma huang and rosemary. For mental clarity, use with gotu kola and panax ginseng.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Ginkgo Biloba

Ginseng (Ren-shen) (Panax ginseng), American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium)
Family:
 Araliaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 root, dried or fresh
Dosage:
 about 500 mg daily or 1/2 tsp. powdered root 3x a day. Ginseng benefits are cumulative in the body. Taking ginseng as a tonic for several months to a year is more effective than short term doses. Nutrition Profile: Ginseng has measurable amounts of germanium for tissue healing. Ginseng's saponins retard plaque formation on the aorta to help prevent stroke. Ginseng's polysaccharides protect against alcohol induced ulcers and increase the protective cells in the gastrointestinal lining.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Ginseng is a strong tonic for boosting energy and rejuvenation during detoxing. As an adaptogen, ginseng provides energy to all body systems, promotes regeneration from stress and fatigue, and rebuilds foundation strength. Ginseng increases the body's ability to fight disease. Ginseng is an effective stimulant to the central nervous system, but in a gentler, calmer way than stimulant drugs like caffeine and nicotine, so it also improves sleep and relieves pain. Ginseng can improve memory, concentration, alertness, visual motor control and reaction time. It reduces the risk of heart attacks by thinning the blood, suppresses arrythmias, and helps regulate blood pressure by regulating cholesterol levels in the blood. Ginseng influences carbohydrate metabolism and has the ability to stimulate the removal of sugar from the blood, preventing hypoglycemic blood sugar swings.
Safety Precautions:
 In large amounts, may cause insomnia or high blood pressure. Avoid while consuming caffeine. Do not take during pregnancy or during acute diseases, high fever or severe inflammation.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 Use with licorice rt. to regulate blood sugar swings. Use with prince ginseng, kirin ginseng, suma, echinacea angustifolia and purpurea rt., pau d' arco, astragalus, St, John's wort, ashwagandha and aralia to energize and restore body defenses. Use with bee pollen, Siberian ginseng rt., gotu kola, fo ti rt., kirin ginseng, prince ginseng., suma, aralia rt., alfalfa, dong quai to revitalize the system.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Ginseng

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Family:
 Ranunculacaea
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 capsules: 2 to 4 caps 3x daily; tincture: small doses for liver restoration; medium doses for astringent, decongestant, disinfectant and anti-inflammatory actions; large doses for laxative and stimulating actions.
Nutrition Profile:
 Very high in cobalt and silicon; high in iron, magnesium, zinc and vitamin C; significant amounts of chromium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and B3.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Goldenseal is a broad spectrum medicinal with a wide range of detoxification benefits. Its properties include effective blood cleansing by removing circulatory congestion to restore veins and enliven the blood. It stimulates blood supply to the spleen, increasing spleen activity to release immune potentiators. It is a bitter tonic with laxative, bowel regulating effects against constipation, diarrhea and hemorrhoids. It helps resolve infectious tumors of the breast, uterus, stomach and skin. It is effective in cleansing and healing formulas for cystitis, gonorrhea, candida albicans, eye inflammations, head and sinus congestion, bronchitis, gallstones, gastric ulcers and chronic gastritis, fevers, flu and tonsillitis.
Safety Precautions:
 Not for use during pregnancy--a uterine stimulant; not for use with high blood pressure. Extended use can weaken good intestinal flora.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With echinacea, garlic and antibiotic herbs for immune stimulation. With chaste-tree berry for PMS. With licorice rt., chaparral, burdock, pau d' arco, echinacea, ascorbate vit. C, goldenseal rt., garlic, kelp, alfalfa, dandelion, poria mushroom, American ginseng, sarsaparilla, astragalus, yellow dock, butternut, milk thistle seed, ginger, prickly ash and buckthorn bark in a detox formula.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Goldenseal

Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum)
Family:
 Compositae
Medicinal Parts:
 root
Dosage:
 tincture: 1/2 to 1 tsp. 3x daily; or 10 - 30 drops 3x daily; infusion: 1 oz. root to 1pt. water.
Nutrition Profile:
 A flavonoid-rich, high tannin herb with strong bitters principles for digestion.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Gravel root is a diuretic for the urinary and reproductive systems that also reduces inflammation and fever, with disinfecting action. It clears excess uric acid, and strengthens the tissues against urinary incontinence. Especially effective for urinary infections, stones and irritation, excess uric acid, urinary incontinence, edema, gout, rheumatism and arthritis.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 To aid in elimination of sediment, use with dandelion rt., parsley rt., hydrangea rt., wild yam rt., marshamallow rt., licorice rt., lecithin, lemon balm herb, ginger rt., and milk thistle sd. Use with devil's claw rt., red clover blsm., Oregon grape rt., ginkgo biloba, licorice rt., horsetail, slippery elm, elm bk., prickly ash bk., ginger rt., flax sd. for a soothing and relaxing formula.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Gravel Root

Green Tea (Thea sinensis)
Medicinal Parts:
 leaves (unfermented), leaf buds.
Dosage:
 1 cup green tea daily or 1 capsule (5 - 15 mg) daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 rich in flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-allergen activity; contains potent polyphenols like catechins, that act as antioxidants, yet do not interfere with iron or protein absorption.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Traditionally a good fasting tea, providing energy support and clearer thinking during cleansing. Combats free radical damage to protect against degenerative disease. Boosts enzyme production in the body. Green tea is fully enzyme-active for weight loss and cleansing. Green tea is a vasodilator and smooth muscle relaxant in cases of bronchial asthma. Highly valued as a cancer preventive. Recent research in Japan shows that several cups of green tea on a regular daily basis are effective in reducing lung cancer death rates, even in men who smoked two packs of cigarettes a day. Other studies in Tokyo indicate the same success with stomach and liver cancers. It shows definite evidence of tumor and skin cancer prevention in animals, even when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Green tea is equally valuable as a heart protector, especially against atherosclerosis. Prevents LDL cholesterol development and PAF (platelet aggregation factor), blood stickiness. Green tea has antibiotic qualities, amazingly even combatting antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. It can lower iron levels in the body, having a direct anti-viral effect on abnormal types of hepatitis viruses.
Safety Precautions:
 none in common use.
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 With burdock rt., gotu kola herb, kukicha twig, fo ti rt., hawthorn bry., cinnamon bk., and hisbiscus flowers for a cleansing, energizing antioxidant tea.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Green Tea

Hawthorn (Cratageus oxyacantha)
Family:
 Rosaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 berries, flowers and leaves
Dosage:
 Cumulative effects over a lengthy period for best effects. Tincture: 15 - 30 drops 3x daily; extract: 10 - 15 drops 3x daily; infusion: 1 cup 3x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 high in chromium and selenium and contains significant amounts of calcium, cobalt, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and vitamins A and C with bioflavonoids.
Cleansing Properties & Detox Activity:
 Hawthorn is a specific for a wide range of circulatory conditions: congestive heart failure, angina, arrhythmias, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, difficult breathing, hypertension and insomnia from cardio-pulmonary problems. It relieves edema and fluid congestion, and promotes hormone balance. It acts quickly as well as longterm, to offer a feeling of well-being.
Safety Precautions:
 None in common use
Synergy With Other Herbs:
 Use with red clover, pau d'arco, nettles, sage, alfalfa, horsetail herb, milk thistle seed, gotu kola, echinacea, blue malva, yerba santa and lemon grass for a blood cleansing and purifying tea. Use with spirulina, bee pollen, rose hips, barley grass, Siberian ginseng, alfalfa, sarsaparilla, raspberry, kelp, parsley, carrots, golden seal, mullein to rebuild the body.
External links:
 Wikipedia's page on Hawthorn

Ho-Shou-Wu, Fo-Ti-Tieng Root (Polygonum multiflorum)
Family:
 Polygonaceae
Medicinal Parts:
 root.
Dosage:
 capsules: 2 capsules with meals 2x daily.
Nutrition Profile:
 A source of beta-carotene, calcium, carbohydrates, chromium, fiber, iron, lecithin, potassium, seleniu