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As the world wakes up to the freshness
of nature and natural products, Herbs take on a leading role. Simple
everyday foods and herbs have moved out of the kitchen to be an effective,
inexpensive and safe part of health care. The time-tested science of Ayurveda uses the goodness of single herbs and different foods to keep your
body at its healthiest best. Women Fitness presents a detailed Directory of
herbs.

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To view details of desired Herbs click on the requisite Alphabet.
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P
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Papaya: It is also called paw-paw. Softening and cleansing.
The enzymes in the fruit have a deep cleansing effect by breaking
down the dead cells of the skin. |
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Parsley (Ajmoda): A widely cultivated seasoning plant,
parsley has a tonic effect on the entire urinary system. Parsley
tablets are also available in the market. It purifies the breath as
well. As a medicinal use, it rectifies all disorders of bladder and
kidneys and some herbalists recommend parsley for treating cancer. |
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Peach: Moisturizing, nourishing and delicious smelling. Use
the mashed pulp on dry, rough skin in skin tonics and masks. |
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Parthenium : Diuretic; good for kidney and bladder; also called
"Missouri Snakeroot" as it was believed to help snake bites; blood
purifier; liver stimulator; the root is used; looks like echinacea; tops are
used for the fever of malaria |
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Passion Flower :
Calming sedative that soothes nervous system with
no side effects; great for hyperactive kids; good for eye infections;
temporarily reduces high blood pressure |
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Pau D'Arco : From Argentina, where they use it as a cancer drug; good
for any blood-related disease; blood purifier; good for dermatitis; great
for cancer in remission; neutralizes poisons in liver; used with great
success for cancer; good for AIDS patients as it strengthens T-cells;
good for candida and herpes simplex; reduces tumors of all kinds;
lowers dependence on insulin for diabetics; natural pain relief for
cancer and arthritis; for hypoglycemia, use Pau D'Arco and licorice;
good for blood and skin cancer; anti-mutagenic; antibiotic, antifungal
for yeast infections; good for liver ailments and possibly for hepatitis C |
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Peppermint: Stimulating. Use peppermint extract for its
tightening, stimulating effect in skin tonics and masks. |
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Petroleum Jelly: A lubricating jelly often used in cleansing
creams and hand and nail creams. |
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Pimpernel: This little plant makes its home almost
everywhere and generously flowers from spring to late autumn. The
pimpernel has small oval-shaped leaves and long slender stalks, each
bearing a bright scarlet flowers. As a medicinal use this herb is
recommended in the treatment of eye diseases, to cure jaundice,
dropsy and inflammation. The plant has cosmetic properties too. It
can be applied as a skin lotion----a standard infusion regulates and
pigmentation, removes freckles and other minor blemishes. The same
lotion is believed to act as a hair restorer. |
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Pine: Put the needles in a muslin bag in the bath to refresh
and soothe aching muscles. Pine oil can also be added to the bath. |
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Plum: Cleansing. Used in masks, tonics and creams. |
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Potatoes: Have cleansing and drawing properties. Clears the
skin. Use thin raw potato slices for eye pads to remove puffiness of
eyes. |
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Psyllium(Plantago ovata and P. Major):
Psyllium is a major source of fiber. The primary use of psyllium
seed and/or psyllium seed husks is as a bulk laxative, especially
for cases of chronic constipation. The tiny seeds contain a
coating of gelatinous material, which swells upon contact with
moisture. This increases the movement (motility) within the colon
thus producing a bowel movement. Psyllium husk is an approved
over-the-counter laxative. |
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R
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Raspberries: Cleansing. Use the crushed fruit in masks or
the juice in blemishes. |
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Red Clover
: blossoms contain molybdenum-an essential nutrient to
help discharge nitrogen; when used with iron supplements, it produces
more rapid hemoglobin production; strengthens anemic blood; protects
against bites and stings; treats and prevents cancer, gout and
whooping cough; expectorant; one of the best mucous clearers; used
for ALL cancers, especially esophagus and breast; use as a tea for
bathing sores; mix with chaparral and Don Quai for cancer; has lots of
vitamins and minerals; very good for children with degenerative
diseases; great nerve calmer, good for nervous exhaustion; good for
rickets, weak chest, bronchitis, and lack of vitality |
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Red Raspberry
: Used as a basic herbal foundation for all female
organs and problems. It is in many female combinations. It strengthens
the walls of the uterus and entire female reproductive system; regulates
menses; alleviates morning sickness; used as a preventative for
hemorrhaging after childbirth; assists labor by making delivery easier;
relieves afterpains; tones and regulates before, during and after
childbirth; increases and enriches milk for lactation, especially when
combined with marshmallow tea; good for children's tummy aches and
bowel problems, and for diarrhea in babies; soothing to stomach and
bowels, as well as cankerous conditions of mucous membranes in the
alimentary canal; high in minerals and vitamins, especially
manganese;also useful for colds, sore throat, bronchitis, coughs,
fevers, general naausea, ulcers, and as an eyewash.
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Red Yeast Rice:
Since 800 A.D., red yeast rice has been employed by the Chinese as both a
food and a
medicinal agent. Its therapeutic benefits as both a promoter of blood
circulation and a digestive stimulant. Researchers have determined that
one of the ingredients in red yeast rice, called monacolin K,
inhibits the production of cholesterol by stopping the action of a key enzyme in
the liver (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase) that is responsible for manufacturing
cholesterol. Red yeast rice has been clinically investigated as a
therapy for reducing cholesterol in two human trials. In one trial, both men and
women taking 1.2 grams (approximately 13.5 mg total monacolins) of a
concentrated red yeast rice extract per day for two months had significant
decreases in serum cholesterol levels. In addition, people taking red yeast rice
had a significant increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol and a decrease in LDL
(“bad”) cholesterol. Elevated triglycerides were also found to be lowered. Red
yeast rice is commercially available in capsules and 2.4 grams (approximately 10
mg monacolins) per day is often recommended in divided amounts for a trial
period of up to 12 weeks. If successful after this period of time, it may be
used for long-term management of high cholesterol. |
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Rhubarb:The root is used to lighten the hair. It gives a
honey grey colour. |
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Rose: These grow in copses and hedgerows. Their flowering
period extends from spring to the middle of summer. The pink or
white flowers are fragrantly scented. They are the richest natural
source of Vitamin E. |
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Rose Oil: A highly aromatic essential oil widely used in
cosmetics. Powerful tonic to circulation, digestive system, heart,
liver congestion, disorders of the genital-urinary system.. Acts by
cleansing & regulating, rather than stimulating. Affinity to female
reproductive system, helps in sexual problems, frigidity &
impotence. Reputed aphrodisiac. Tonic & astringent to all skin
types. Least toxic of all essences. |
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Rose Water: A scented water made from rose petals. Widely
used in skin used in skin tonics and
creams. |
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Rosehips: Rich in Vitamin C. Use the juice in tonics. Good
for blemishes. |
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Rosemary:Rosemary is a widely cultivated herb and a
popular garden plant with its spiky dark green leaves and
distinctive scent. As a medicine, rosemary provides a valuable
heart and liver tonic and also helps reduce high blood pressure.
It is widely used too in the treatment of nerves, digestive
disorders and menstrual pains. In all cases a small cupful of the
standard infusion should be taken each morning on rising. Used as
a lotion, this herb or its oil will cure all pains in the head.
When taken with honey it cures coughing. Rosemary is well known as
a fine tonic for the scalp and skin. It adds lustre to the hair
and is a common ingredient of many commercial shampoos. It keeps
the skin free from wrinkles. Boil rosemary leaves and the flowers
and use the mixture as a face wash. Do not wipe the face
afterwards, but let is dry naturally. The regular washing of face
with this solution will keep you young for ever. |

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S
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Safflower Oil: A rich poly-unsaturated oil. Suitable for all
nourishing cosmetics. Keep it airtight. |
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Sage:An aromatic, sun-loving plant with grey-green leaves
and mauvish flowers. It is used to treat enough cough, colds and
headaches and fevers. It is also good for the liver, bile and the
whole digestive system. A standard infusion of leaves an sprigs
used as a gargle or mouth-wash cures sore throats and gums, and as
a lotion heals ulcers, sores and other skin eruptions. Sage has
always been good for the brain, improving the memory and as a cure
for insanity. |
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Sarsaparilla :
Blood purifier; breaks down uric acid; good for liver problems, rheumatism, skin disorders, hormone excesses,
inflammation and gas; a natural steroid; produces testosterone,estrogen, cortisone, and progesterone; use with ginseng for body
builders; good for psoriasis and other eruptive skin disorders; antidote
for poisons; diuretic; increases metabolism and perspiration;
stimulates breathing when one is congested; aids circulation to
rheumatic joints; produces anabolic hormones; helps women produce
natural progesterone |
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Saw Palmetto :
The berries act on the enlarged prostate to
relieve pain and inflammation; use for all wasting diseases, as
it affects glands; quiets nerves; has antiseptic properties;
relieves excess mucous; good for lungs; good for diseases of
reproductive organs; increases breast size |
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Sesame Oil: A poly-unsaturated oil. Used in all
cosmetics, especially sun tanning creams, as it absorbs ultra-violet
rays. |
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Shallaki
for joint pain:Shallaki has good pain-relieving properties
that are useful in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain. |
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Shuddha
Guggulu, lipid regulator:It regulates fat metabolism and
helps in removing excess cholesterol from the body. |
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Siberian Ginseng :
Most useful for maintaining good health rather
than treating poor health. Can help those exposed to toxic chemicals
and radiation. Has a general tonic effect on the body, in particular the
adrenal glands, helping the body to withstand heat, cold, infection,
other physical stresses, and radiation. Improves stamina and mental
resilience, and reduces the effects of physical stress such as those
endured during athletic training. Most effective in the treatment of
prolonged exhaustion and debilitation resulting from over-work and
long-term stress. Also stimulates immune resistance and is effective in
recovery from chronic illness. Helps to prevent infection, maintains
well-being, sometimes useful in treating impotence. |
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Slippery Elm:
Excellent for the GI tract; soothes ulcers and colon when
taken orally & rectally; breaks up mucous in lung problems; good for
any ulcerated condition - use as a poultice for rashes, etc.; neutralizes
stomach acidity & gas; use as a poultice for cold sores; use in cough
syrups; helps feed adrenal glands; lubricates bowels; heals intestines |
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Soap flakes: A soap solution used as an emulsifying agent. |
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SodiumSesqui Carbonate: A powdery substance which is a
water softener and is used in bath salts. |
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Spermaceti: A white wax from whale sperm. It can be replaced
with either emulsifying wax or lunette wax. |
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Spirulina: Excellent for vegetarians as it is a very high source of beta
carotene, B-12, and gamma linolenic acid, also contains most amino
acids, including all 9 essential ones that the body needs; contains
250% more B-12 than liver and 4 times the protein of beef; 80-85% of
the proteins of spirolina are assimilated by the body; gives ENERGY!;
blood cell and tissue builder; satisfies hunger; balances blood sugar &
RNA/DNA; boosts immune system; lowers bad cholesterol; has all the
B complex vitamins, trace minerals, and essential fatty acids - is a
complete protein; it is a blue-green algae usually found in fresh water lakes up north |
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Storax:The resin from the plant styrax. Often used n
medicines. |
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Strawberry: It possesses considerable medicinal value. For
fevers and excessive perspiration, a tisane of strawberry leaves can
scarcely be bettered. The plant is also astringent and useful in
dealing with diarrhea, over-copious menstruation, threatened
abortion, any risk of hemorrhage and the digestive system.
Strawberry contains maximum iron contains maximum iron contents and
cures anemia. The strawberry juice can be used to treat more serious
skin ailments. Teeth that have become discolored or encrusted with
tartar can be cleaned with strawberry juice. |
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St. John's Wort -
Anti-viral which is especially good for gonorrhea;
relieves pain, anxiety, nervous tension, euralgia; used in treating
AIDS; anti-depressant, but must be taken for several months to get full
effect |
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Sugar: An abrasive face scrub. Lather the face with soap,
then add a handful of sugar and scrub, rinse off and apply lemon
juice. This thoroughly cleanses and stimulates and skin. |
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Sulphur:A yellow powder used in acne preparations. It
helps slow down the activity of the oil producing glands. Some
people are allergic to it, so before using it on your face, give
yourself a skin test behind the ear. |
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Sunflower:Rich in un-polysaturates. Widely used in creams. |
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Syllium Hulls (& Seeds)
: ** MUST DRINK 6-8 cups of water per
day if taking, otherwise it will clog the system**; DO NOT take if
constipation is a problem; great for weight loss as it makes one feel
full; cleans out parasites and other garbage in intestines; good for bad
diarrhea; when soaked in water, it increases 8-14 times it's size; revents cholesterol absorption; removes toxins from intestines;
soothes inflamed tissue; promotes growth of friendly bacteria; reduces
transit-time of matter through colon; problems can stem from incorrect
use!! |
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T
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Tagara
(valerian), a relaxant:It has mild sedative properties which
are useful in insomnia and sleep disorders. Tagara is also a good
remedy for hysteria, nervous unrest and emotional troubles. |
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Tarragon: An aromatic herb with a strong fresh smell. Used
in skin tonics and lotions. |
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Tea: Contains tannin which has a soothing and healing
effect. Tannin absorbs ultra-violet light and as is used in
sun-creams to help prevent burning. Tea bags are marvelously
soothing ready-made eye-pads. |
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Tea Tree: Multi-use antibacterial. To treat acne- mix 4 drops of tea tree
essential oil with 4 tablespoons water; apply to skin.
For athlete's foot- apply oil to fungus. Cold sores- mix 4 drops oil with 4
tablespoons olive oil. Apply to sore.
Yeast infections- Add a drop or two of oil to 2 cups of water, and use as a
douche. Repeat daily for two weeks. |
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Thyme: Thyme grows wild or dry banks an heaths. It has woody
stems, covered in fine hair and flattish round leaves and growing in
pairs. Heavily scented flowers are borne in whorls. The medicinal
uses of thyme derive firstly from its cleansing properties. A
poultice can be made from leaves to combat all forms of inflammation
and infection. Thyme is a good digestive and used as a liver tonic.
It cures a wide range of psychological disorders, headaches,
hysteria, halitosis and assorted female ailments. |
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Tomato:
A slightly acidic vegetable, containing potassium and Vitamin
C. Use it on blackheads, open pores and greasy skin. |
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Triphala,
bowel cleanser:A digestive aid compound with Chebulic
Myrobalan (Haritaki), Indian Gooseberry (Amalaki) and Belliric
Myrobalan (vibhitaki) that regularises the digestive system.
Regular use promotes good colon health, stimulates intestinal
walls, provides overall support for the digestive function and
ensures that the digestive tract works at the optimal level. |
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Turnips: Have drawing properties. Use either raw, grated or
boiled in cleansing masks. |
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Turtle Oil: Vitamin enriched oil. Often used in rich
nourishing creams. Very effective but smells bad. |
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U
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Uva Ursi : Diuretic; absorbed and excreted by the kidneys; antiseptic
of urinary tract; good for yeast and bladder infections; contains tannic
acid and balances urine Ph; stimulates urinary tract; helps reduce blood in urine; soothes bladder walls; used for excessive sugar in the
blood; contains allantoin to help heal wounds; strongly anti-biotic
against such conditions as e-coli and staph; treats loss of bladder
control; NOT FOR children under 2; NOT FOR pregnant women
as it stimulates the uterus to contract |
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V
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Valerian : Calms nervous conditions; aids in peaceful and restful sleep; slows
heart rate while increasing blood flow; good for people whose valves don't work
right; nature's tranquilizer; decreases aggression;
good source of calcium and magnesium
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Vaseline: It is just like a petroleum jelly. |
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Vinegar: Acidic. Use diluted 8 parts water to one part
vinegar. Improves and softens the skin. |
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Vitamins: Valuable for skin and hair. Vitamin A can pass
through the skin and is helpful for dry skin and acne. Also have
soothing properties. Vitamin B promotes health of skin and hair.
Vitamin C promotes healing of acne. Vitamin D can be absorbed
through skin and has a healing properties. Vitamin F counteracts
dry, chapped skin. Greatly used in face and hand creams. It is also
used in hair treatments to counteract brittle hair. |
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W
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Wheatgerm Flour:Use it mixed with double cream to massage
the body. Cleansing and softening. |
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Wheatgerm Oil:A rich unsaturated oil, rich in Vitamin E.
It has healing properties. |
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Witch Hazel:Made from twigs of hamamelis or alder bush.
Widely used in skin tonics for its astringent properties. |
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White Oak Bark :
Astringent to shrink body tissues; high in calcium and tannin;
excellent for varicose veins and hemorrhoids; when using externally, boil or
steam bark or leaves; good for diarrhea, hemorrhage, and intestinal bleeding;
cleans inflamed skin and mucous membranes; expels pinworms; cleans
gastrointestinal tract; stops bleeding in stomach, lungs, liver, and bowels; use
as douche or enema for soothing inflamed tissues; aids in healing stomach and
intestines and to rid of gallstones; brings down fevers |
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White Willow :
Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, reduces fever, anti-rheumatic,
astringent. White willow is the original source of salycilic acid, the
forerunner of aspirin. Extremely effective for reducing
joint, hip, and back pain caused by rheumatism and arthritis. In
combination with other herbs and dietary changes, it relieves inflammation
and swelling, and improves mobility in painful, creaky joints. Also used to
manage high fevers and may be used to ease headaches. White willow assists
during menopause by reducing
sweating during hot flashes and night sweats. |
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Wild Yam:Aantispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, increases
sweating, diuretic. Has been used to treat rheumatism and colicky conditions.
Useful as a relaxing remedy for painful mestruation, ovarian pain, and labor.
Extremely useful and effective in treating arthritis, as it reduces inflammation
and pain, and relaxes stiff muscles in affected areas. Helps to relieve cramps
and muscle tension; can also be an effective treatment for digestive problems
including gallbladder inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulitis.
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Y
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Yarrow: A familiar plant that grows in fields and along the
side of country lanes, Yarrow has greyish, feathery,
ethereal-looking leaves and small daisy-like flowers. Yarrow has
been used since antiquity for headaches, fevers and influenza. It
also cures diarrhea, palpitation and excessive menstruation.
Yarrow Tea is a good remedy for severe colds, being most useful in
the commencement of fevers, and in cases of obstructed
perspiration. The infusion is made with 1 OZ. of dried herb to 1
pint of boiling water, drunk warm, in wineglassful doses. It may
be sweetened with sugar, honey or treacle, adding a little Cayenne
Pepper, and to each dose a teaspoonful of Composition Essence. It
opens the pores freely and purifies the blood, and is recommended
in the early stages of children's colds, and in measles and other
eruptive diseases. A decoction of the whole plant is employed for
bleeding piles, and is good for kidney disorders. It has the
reputation also of being a preventative of baldness, if the head
be washed with it. |
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Yellow Dock - blood cleanser, tonic and builder; helps the liver function
properly; very high in iron and is good for anemia, skin disorders, and liver
disorders; nourishes the spleen; tones the entire
system; also used for skin infections, ulcers, skin itch, tumors, varicose
veins, lymphatic system, and the gall bladder; use externally for bleeding
wounds; balances body chemistry; builds immune system; beneficial during
pregnancy to build iron and prevent infant jaundice; has a high mineral content;
has astringent properties
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Yoghurt:A fermented liquor made from milk. Natural yoghurt
contains enzymes. Used as a base for cleansing and cleaning face
masks. |
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Yucca : Intestinal bacteria (flora) balancer and regulator; may decrease toxins
and help absorb nutrients; aids in digestion; has a high content of saponins
that don't enter the bloodstream; good for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohns
disease, and excessive gas; all eliminative systems are less taxed, especially
the liver, when yucca is
used; lowers build-up of toxins in joints, so it is good for degenerative
diseases like arthritis; occasionally causes cramping so it should be combined
with other herbs; breaks up inorganic deposits; high in fiber; aids digestion in
people with prostitis and urethritis.
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Z
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Zinc Oxide: A heavy white powder. It has mildly astringent
and antiseptic properties. Used as a dusting powder or, mixed with
benzoate lard, to make a soothing ointment. Calamine lotion contains
a small quantity of Zinc Oxide. |
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