Some of the substances found in cranesbill are tannins, gallic acid, starch, pectin, and resin. The root can contain between 12 to 25 percent tannin, with the highest amount just before flowering. The American cranesbill is not the only plant of the genus Geranium that is used in herbal medicine. The European species wood cranesbill […]
Herbs - General
What is Red Poppy used for?
The red poppy seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. They have pleasant nutty flavor and can be sprinkled on bread and cakes or added in soups and salads. The seeds are rather small but relatively easy to harvest from the large seed pods. They are completely safe to eat because they do not contain […]
What is Lady’s Mantle used for?
Many of the Lady’s Mantle constituents, especially the tannins and the bitter substances, are thought to have a balancing and regulating effect on the female reproductive system. Although the herb is not recommended for use during the early stages of pregnancy due to its uterine stimulating effect, many herbalists regard it as an excellent remedy […]
What is Coleus Forskohlii used for?
Coleus is a not a particularly remarkable plant to look at, yet it has a 3000-year history in Ayurvedic medicine and is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts as a tonic for a healthy heart and lungs. Today, coleus is not just a herb for cardiovascular ailments but is increasingly used to assist weight loss by breaking down […]
What is Chaste Tree used for?
Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) got its name from the anti-aphrodisiac quality purported since its early use. Monks used to chew the berries and leaves of this tree to reduce the urges of the flesh. This use is not scientifically proven, but it has deep roots traditionally. Syrup of the berries was even given at convents […]
What is Boswellia Serrata used for?
Traditional ayurvedic medicine has used the gummy resin from the boswellia tree to treat arthritis, diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, dysentery, lung disease and worms. In herbal medicine, boswellia is best known for its use in treating arthritis. The active ingredient, boswellic acid, in the resin is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It has also been said to have pain relieving properties. These […]
What is Mistletoe used for?
Mistletoe was a sacred plant of the Celtic peoples; the Celts and Gauls called it “all-heal” or “cure-all”. Shakespeare called mistletoe ‘baleful Mistletoe’, a reference to the Nordic mythology when Baldur, the god of peace and beauty, was slain by an arrow made from mistletoe and then brought back to life by the other Nordic […]
Veganism and Bodybuilding: A Growing Trend
Veganism is a way of life where its practitioners abstain from indulging in any form of animal products, especially in their diet. They are also known as strict vegetarians who don’t even eat dairy products. Some people get started on this journey due to taste preferences, while others do it for moral/spiritual purposes. There are […]
What is Myrrh used for?
Myrrh is traditionally used as burned incense which repels fleas and mosquitoes. Thought to be effective for pain relief, including menstrual pain resulting from blood stagnation. Powdered myrrh is used in Germany to treat throat and mouth inflammation. It is also used on external injuries to reduce swelling. Applied directly to teeth, it can also […]
What is Cornflower used for?
The plant’s medicinal value lies primarily in its anti-inflammatory properties. Taken internally as an herbal tea, it is thought to aid in soothing stomach ulcers, while rinsing with the tea is used to speed the healing of sores or bleeding gums in the mouth. The tea can also be good for improving digestion, and the […]