Herbs for women
ANGELICA ARCHANGELICA
Warming, strengthening, and energizing to the reproductive organs, as well as the digestive, circulatory, and endocrine systems. Angelica is a mighty medicine with many nourishing, restorative and revitalizing gifts. For thousands of years, healers around the world have used these herbs to regulate menstruation, relieve cramping and menopausal distress, promote healthy blood circulation, balance hormones, and generally ease the journey through the childbearing and menopausal years.
Women who integrate angelica/dong gui into their weekly self nourishment program often experience side effects which include, but are not limited to, increased sexual pleasure and libido, the alleviation of constipation, a rosy complexion, and sound sleep. Both angelicas offer abundant minerals and vitamins. They are brimming with antioxidants, including rich stores of vitamins A, B, (especially B12), and E. Those B vitamins, in combination with abundant niacin, magnesium and calcium, help strengthen the nerves, relieving tension and promoting sleep. And all that vitamin E helps to keep skin, internal organs and tissues, especially those of the bladder and vagina, well lubricated, moist and flexible. The angelica’s high iron content nourishes and builds blood, prevents anemia and increases vital energy. Generous supplies of phytosterols (hormonal precursors found in plants), glycocides, saponins, and flavonoids support the body’s production of all important hormones, stabilizing emotional swings, and easing hot flashes, irritability, and hormone related headaches. The angelicas also contain limonene, which detoxify carcinogens and disrupt the growth of cancerous changes within the cells.
AGNES CASTUS
Highly esteemed the world over as a supreme female tonic. Vitex exerts a powerful influence over the endocrine system and is especially nourishing to the pituitary gland, which controls and coordinates the menstrual cycle. The berries of this North African shrub are phytosterol rich and help balance the hormones by promoting the production of progesterone and normalizing the estrogen cycle. Extensive laboratory studies with vitex have demonstrated its ability to stimulate the production of lutenizing hormones, which enhance the progesterone cycle, and at the same time inhibit the release of follicle stimulating hormone, normalizing the estrogen cycle. Regular use of vitex will help regulate menstruation, relieve emotional swings associated with pre menstrual tension, and come to your assistance when dealing with premenstrual abdominal bloating, breast swelling and tenderness, and craving for sweets. Its ability to restore hormonal balance enhances fertility, and it helps normalize reproductive functioning when coming off birth control pills, after giving birth, having a miscarriage or abortion. Women in the midst of menopause find that Vitex will ease menopausal flooding, help eliminate night sweats and hot flashes, lubricate dry vaginal tissue, even out excessive mood swings and help relieve depression. Vitex also stimulates the production of prolactin, and is taken by nursing mothers to ensure an abundant supply of milk as well as rebuild strength and vitality and increase energy. Consistent use of vitex has a strong anti inflammatory effect on the endometrium and has consistently been shown to offer significant assistance in the shrinking of fibroids.
CHAMOMILE
Soothing to the nerves, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, sedative and pain relieving chamomile has a well deserved reputation as a women’s herb. Perhaps best known as an herb to soothe the stomach, chamomile’s antispasmodic properties help allay nausea, and are an excellent ally when dealing with uterine cramping or congestion. It is a well known emmenogogue, will help bring on the menses when late, is useful for scanty or irregular menstruation, and menopausal discomforts. German chamomile is often referred to by its Latin name, Matricaria, which suggests its use as a gynecological herb. It is commonly called "mother herb" by the German people, alluding to its role as an herb for female disorders. In fact, in Germany, chamomile tea is readily available and given freely to both mother and babe while in the maternity ward. When feeling stressed, tense or uptight, a nice warm cup of chamomile tea will help soothe those jangled nerves.
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL
Evening Primrose Oil has been called the most sensational preventive discovery since vitamin C. It contains the pain relieving compound phenylalanine and is increasingly being used to treat chronic headaches. It is currently being studied all over the world as a treatment for aging problems, alcoholism, acne, heart disease, hyperactivity in children, symptoms of menopause, multiple sclerosis, weight control, obesity, PMS and schizophrenia. It has so many preventive and therapeutic qualities that it has become a standard part of recommendations of many herbalist for maintaining youth and preventing disease. Evening Primrose Oil contains a high concentration of a fatty acid called GLA and it is this fatty acid that is largely responsible for the remarkable healing properties of the plant. The gamma-linoleic acid, linoleic acid and other nutrients in this oil are essential for cell structure and improve the elasticity of the skin. These fatty acids also help to regulate hormones and improve nerve function aiding problems ranging from PMS to migraine headaches. The hormone balancing effect contributes to healthy breast tissue. The GLA in evening primrose oil can help to lessen menstrual cramps. It may also minimise premenstrual breast tenderness, irritable bowel flare-ups, and carbohydrate cravings, and help to control endometriosis-associated inflammation. The oil's essential fatty acids can minimise breast inflammation and promote the absorption of iodine, a mineral that can be present in abnormally low levels in women with this condition.
FENUGREEK
Fenugreek has a long history as a breast enlarger and contains diosgenin which is used to make synthetic estrogen. It has been found to promote the growth of new breast cells and increase the size and fullness of the breasts. Of all the herbs used for breast enlargement, fenugreek has the highest concentrations of the effective plant compounds. Diosgenin, a steroid sapogenin is the starting compound for over 60% of the total steroid production by the pharmaceutical industry. Other sapogenins found in fenugreek seed include yamogenin, gitogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens.
While Fenugreek is considered the finest herb for enhancing feminine beauty it also aids in sexual stimulation, balances blood sugar levels, and contains choline which aids the thinking process. Fenugreek has been the focus of several studies concerning the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of breast cancer. Its ability to balance hormone levels aids in treating PMS and menopause. Its antioxidants slow ageing and help prevent disease.
The plant has also been employed against bronchitis, fevers, sore throats, wounds swollen glands, skin irritations, diabetes, ulcers, and in the treatment of cancer. Fenugreek has been used to promote lactation and as an aphrodisiac.
LADIES MANTLE
Lady’s mantle is a superb uterine tonic, has a strengthening effect on the female reproductive system, helps regulate menstruation and controls menstrual flooding. Its content of salicylic acid and other sedating properties make it effective at alleviating menstrual cramping or uterine discomfort. Lady’s mantle is also used to shrink fibroids. This herb possesses a reputation as a fertility enhancing herb and also has a special affinity for the breast. Lady’s mantle is an invaluable aid when dealing with lumpy breast tissue, achy breasts, easing tension and relieving breast discomfort. The leaves and flowers can be used externally as a poultice. External application of lady’s mantle will result in increased tone and firmness to breast tissue. Use it regularly to restore tone to sagging breasts. When dealing with vaginitis, lady’s mantle infusion (well strained) is recommended to help dry up excessive discharges. Make a standard infusion and use as a douche or as a sitz bath to treat vaginitis, vulvitis, genital sores or herpes, or to heal perrenial tears after childbirth. To help regulate menstruation or to prevent flooding, take 10 drops of lady’s mantle tincture three times daily for a week before menstruation is due.
NETTLE
One of the finest nourishing tonics in the entire plant kingdom, nettle greens are mineral rich and contain abundant chlorophyll, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins A, C and K. Nettle is a wonderful ally for the pregnant women or nursing mother. It not only provides optimum nourishment to build the brain, bones, blood, muscle, tissue, nerves, and organs of a healthy fetus, but will also improve the quality and quantity of breast milk. Midwives usually recommend pregnant women drink nettle infusions for the last trimester, as its abundant vitamin K helps prevent hemorrhage. American Indian women drank nettle tea during pregnancy to strengthen the fetus and ease delivery. They also used it to stop bleeding after childbirth. Menopausal women also have a friend in nettle. With its rich stores of minerals, especially calcium, regular use of nettles will nourish your nervous system, calm and steady your nerves and strengthen your bones, thereby preventing osteoporosis. Consuming this herb often also helps ensure a healthy heart. Regular use of nettles will boost energy levels, ease depression and mood swings, and support healthy functioning of the kidneys and adrenal system, naturally stressed during menopause. Nettles are also highly regarded for their ability to balance blood sugar levels, enhance sexual performance and enjoyment, promote healthy hair growth, and alleviate chronic skin conditions such as eczema.
PASSIFLORA (passion Flower)
Passionflower gets its name from the beautiful flowers' radial filiments, which Christian missionaries likened to the crown of thorns used in Christ's crucifixion.
Passionflower eases anxiety, emotional stress and promotes peaceful sleep. Scientists believe that passionflower works by increasing levels of a chemical called gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA reduces the activity of some brain cells, inducing a greater state of relaxation. Passionflower is often combined with other herbs used for relaxation such as valerian, lemon balm, skullcap, or kava. Some people apply a poultice of the root of passion flower to the skin for use as a topical remedy for healing of the skin. It also has aphrodisiac properties.
Passionflower is a nervine, meaning that it has an effect on the nervous system, it can intensify the effects of prescription sedatives. The two should not be taken simultaneously.
RED CLOVER
Known by such names as "God given" and "prized herb", red clover is a humble little field herb with incredible healing gifts. Brimming with nutrients, red clover is especially mineral rich, loaded with calcium and magnesium, contains profuse amounts of protein, vitamin B complex and vitamin C. Red clover infusions can be enjoyed daily as a vitamin and mineral rich beverage with absolutely no risk of side effects. The National Cancer Institute has found anti-tumor properties in this herb, and no less than 33 cultures around the world use red clover to treat cancer. It has been found to contain at least four anti tumor compounds including daidzein and genistein. Red clover also contains significant amounts of antioxidants, especially tocopheral, a form of vitamin E shown to help prevent breast tumors in animals. Red clover is prescribed today for the treatment of breast, ovarian and lymphatic cancers. To augment other approaches to the treatment of these diseases, herbalists recommend drinking two to four cups of red clover blossom infusions daily. Massage red clover infused oil into the effected area several times daily, or use fresh flowers, or those strained from the infusion, as a poultice over the area. Phytosterol rich red clover blossoms have been used for centuries to balance the hormones and promote the production of estrogen. Red clover will help reduce the frequency of hot flashes and night sweats for the menopausal women. Red clover is the number one fertility enhancing herb and I can personally attest to its success in this area. It is a wonderful herb for regulating the menstrual cycle, although because it thins the blood it is best not used by women prone to heavy bleeding. Red clover contains salicylates and coumarins which are responsible for its blood thinning abilities and make red clover an excellent choice to tone and strengthen the heart and prevent stroke. Red clover can safely be used by pregnant women and nursing mothers. It will deeply nourish and help replenish minerals lost through pregnancy and lactation. It will also produce abundant breast milk as well as keep mother feeling relaxed and healthy.
SAW PALMETTO
Sweet, nutritive and tonic saw palmetto berries were highly valued by American Indian healers, and later used extensively by the Eclectic physicians around the turn of the century. Antiseptic to the urinary tract, bringing tone to the bladder, saw palmetto berries will come to your aid when dealing with urinary or bladder problems. It helps promote strong contractions of the bladder so that it can fully expel its contents. If an infection of the urinary system is suspected or diagnosed, it’s a good idea to combine saw palmetto with echinacea in equal amounts. Saw palmetto has a strong reputation as an aphrodisiac which may be attributed to its ability to nourish the reproductive system as well as the endocrine glands, enhancing all around sexual health. Saw palmetto’s nourishing and tonifying effects extend to the entire female reproductive system. Regular consumption of infusions of these phytosterol rich berries will bring health and vitality to ovarian, bladder, vaginal and breast tissue. Saw palmetto is a tissue builder, and will actually rebuild, moisturize and plump up dry or atrophied tissue in these areas.
SHATAVARI
One of the most powerful rejuvenating herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, Shatavari is commonly used in India for conditions affecting the female reproductive system, including the mood swings and irritation associated with premenstrual syndrome, as well as menopausal hot flashes. Sometimes translated as “she who possesses 100 husbands,” Shatavari also has a reputation as a fertility-enhancing plant that improves the health of both male and female reproductive tissues.Researchers have paid more attention to Shatavari’s immuno-modulating properties. Studies show that the herb strengthens the immune system by enhancing the functioning of macrophages ― the immune cells responsible for digesting potentially destructive organisms and cancer cells.
Scientists have also discovered that Shatavari helps the immune system recover more quickly from exposure to toxins by protecting blood-producing cells in the bone marrow and by enhancing the production of immune-regulating messenger molecules.
STARFLOWER OIL
Starflower Oil is extracted from the seed of the starflower plant (borage officinalis), a pretty blue flower that grows in parts of Europe and North Africa. Starflowers have long been known for their medicinal properties,and starflower oil is one of the secrets of blossoming health for today’s woman. Starflower oil is the most concentrated plant source of GLA (gammalinoleic acid) known to man. Used as an essential remedy for PMS, mood swings, menstrual cramps, breast tenderness and other menstrual problems as well as menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. GLA also has anti-inflammatory properties and may be indicated to alleviate the symptoms of colds, bronchitis, and respiratory infections in general. Starflower oil can also prove beneficial for eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions, and even high blood pressure.
ROSE
Flower of the Goddess and Queen of the Aromatics, roses have been in use since time immemorial. They are a beauty to behold, smell heavenly and possess much medicinal virtue. Nostradamus used the petals to treat The Black Death/Plague. Roses have a nourishing effect on the heart and circulatory system and are soothing to the nerves. They are renowned for having a tonic, balancing effect on the female reproductive system. Wild roses, sweet briar and other species, are rich in phytosterols, stimulate the production of estrogen in the body, and bioflavonoids which are also favorable to estrogen production. Any part of the rose plant, flower and leaves can be used to help balance the hormones, any time during a womens reproductive years. Roses can be used to alleviate headaches, relieve menstrual cramping and strengthen the bones. They are fabulous for the skin, and will sooth any irritated skin condition. The fruits of the rose, or rose hips, are bursting with nutrients, especially vitamin C, E, selenium and zinc. We throw them into winter teas as a boost to the immune system. They also increase brain power, concentration and focus.
Warming, strengthening, and energizing to the reproductive organs, as well as the digestive, circulatory, and endocrine systems. Angelica is a mighty medicine with many nourishing, restorative and revitalizing gifts. For thousands of years, healers around the world have used these herbs to regulate menstruation, relieve cramping and menopausal distress, promote healthy blood circulation, balance hormones, and generally ease the journey through the childbearing and menopausal years.
Women who integrate angelica/dong gui into their weekly self nourishment program often experience side effects which include, but are not limited to, increased sexual pleasure and libido, the alleviation of constipation, a rosy complexion, and sound sleep. Both angelicas offer abundant minerals and vitamins. They are brimming with antioxidants, including rich stores of vitamins A, B, (especially B12), and E. Those B vitamins, in combination with abundant niacin, magnesium and calcium, help strengthen the nerves, relieving tension and promoting sleep. And all that vitamin E helps to keep skin, internal organs and tissues, especially those of the bladder and vagina, well lubricated, moist and flexible. The angelica’s high iron content nourishes and builds blood, prevents anemia and increases vital energy. Generous supplies of phytosterols (hormonal precursors found in plants), glycocides, saponins, and flavonoids support the body’s production of all important hormones, stabilizing emotional swings, and easing hot flashes, irritability, and hormone related headaches. The angelicas also contain limonene, which detoxify carcinogens and disrupt the growth of cancerous changes within the cells.
AGNES CASTUS
Highly esteemed the world over as a supreme female tonic. Vitex exerts a powerful influence over the endocrine system and is especially nourishing to the pituitary gland, which controls and coordinates the menstrual cycle. The berries of this North African shrub are phytosterol rich and help balance the hormones by promoting the production of progesterone and normalizing the estrogen cycle. Extensive laboratory studies with vitex have demonstrated its ability to stimulate the production of lutenizing hormones, which enhance the progesterone cycle, and at the same time inhibit the release of follicle stimulating hormone, normalizing the estrogen cycle. Regular use of vitex will help regulate menstruation, relieve emotional swings associated with pre menstrual tension, and come to your assistance when dealing with premenstrual abdominal bloating, breast swelling and tenderness, and craving for sweets. Its ability to restore hormonal balance enhances fertility, and it helps normalize reproductive functioning when coming off birth control pills, after giving birth, having a miscarriage or abortion. Women in the midst of menopause find that Vitex will ease menopausal flooding, help eliminate night sweats and hot flashes, lubricate dry vaginal tissue, even out excessive mood swings and help relieve depression. Vitex also stimulates the production of prolactin, and is taken by nursing mothers to ensure an abundant supply of milk as well as rebuild strength and vitality and increase energy. Consistent use of vitex has a strong anti inflammatory effect on the endometrium and has consistently been shown to offer significant assistance in the shrinking of fibroids.
CHAMOMILE
Soothing to the nerves, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, sedative and pain relieving chamomile has a well deserved reputation as a women’s herb. Perhaps best known as an herb to soothe the stomach, chamomile’s antispasmodic properties help allay nausea, and are an excellent ally when dealing with uterine cramping or congestion. It is a well known emmenogogue, will help bring on the menses when late, is useful for scanty or irregular menstruation, and menopausal discomforts. German chamomile is often referred to by its Latin name, Matricaria, which suggests its use as a gynecological herb. It is commonly called "mother herb" by the German people, alluding to its role as an herb for female disorders. In fact, in Germany, chamomile tea is readily available and given freely to both mother and babe while in the maternity ward. When feeling stressed, tense or uptight, a nice warm cup of chamomile tea will help soothe those jangled nerves.
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL
Evening Primrose Oil has been called the most sensational preventive discovery since vitamin C. It contains the pain relieving compound phenylalanine and is increasingly being used to treat chronic headaches. It is currently being studied all over the world as a treatment for aging problems, alcoholism, acne, heart disease, hyperactivity in children, symptoms of menopause, multiple sclerosis, weight control, obesity, PMS and schizophrenia. It has so many preventive and therapeutic qualities that it has become a standard part of recommendations of many herbalist for maintaining youth and preventing disease. Evening Primrose Oil contains a high concentration of a fatty acid called GLA and it is this fatty acid that is largely responsible for the remarkable healing properties of the plant. The gamma-linoleic acid, linoleic acid and other nutrients in this oil are essential for cell structure and improve the elasticity of the skin. These fatty acids also help to regulate hormones and improve nerve function aiding problems ranging from PMS to migraine headaches. The hormone balancing effect contributes to healthy breast tissue. The GLA in evening primrose oil can help to lessen menstrual cramps. It may also minimise premenstrual breast tenderness, irritable bowel flare-ups, and carbohydrate cravings, and help to control endometriosis-associated inflammation. The oil's essential fatty acids can minimise breast inflammation and promote the absorption of iodine, a mineral that can be present in abnormally low levels in women with this condition.
FENUGREEK
Fenugreek has a long history as a breast enlarger and contains diosgenin which is used to make synthetic estrogen. It has been found to promote the growth of new breast cells and increase the size and fullness of the breasts. Of all the herbs used for breast enlargement, fenugreek has the highest concentrations of the effective plant compounds. Diosgenin, a steroid sapogenin is the starting compound for over 60% of the total steroid production by the pharmaceutical industry. Other sapogenins found in fenugreek seed include yamogenin, gitogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens.
While Fenugreek is considered the finest herb for enhancing feminine beauty it also aids in sexual stimulation, balances blood sugar levels, and contains choline which aids the thinking process. Fenugreek has been the focus of several studies concerning the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of breast cancer. Its ability to balance hormone levels aids in treating PMS and menopause. Its antioxidants slow ageing and help prevent disease.
The plant has also been employed against bronchitis, fevers, sore throats, wounds swollen glands, skin irritations, diabetes, ulcers, and in the treatment of cancer. Fenugreek has been used to promote lactation and as an aphrodisiac.
LADIES MANTLE
Lady’s mantle is a superb uterine tonic, has a strengthening effect on the female reproductive system, helps regulate menstruation and controls menstrual flooding. Its content of salicylic acid and other sedating properties make it effective at alleviating menstrual cramping or uterine discomfort. Lady’s mantle is also used to shrink fibroids. This herb possesses a reputation as a fertility enhancing herb and also has a special affinity for the breast. Lady’s mantle is an invaluable aid when dealing with lumpy breast tissue, achy breasts, easing tension and relieving breast discomfort. The leaves and flowers can be used externally as a poultice. External application of lady’s mantle will result in increased tone and firmness to breast tissue. Use it regularly to restore tone to sagging breasts. When dealing with vaginitis, lady’s mantle infusion (well strained) is recommended to help dry up excessive discharges. Make a standard infusion and use as a douche or as a sitz bath to treat vaginitis, vulvitis, genital sores or herpes, or to heal perrenial tears after childbirth. To help regulate menstruation or to prevent flooding, take 10 drops of lady’s mantle tincture three times daily for a week before menstruation is due.
NETTLE
One of the finest nourishing tonics in the entire plant kingdom, nettle greens are mineral rich and contain abundant chlorophyll, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins A, C and K. Nettle is a wonderful ally for the pregnant women or nursing mother. It not only provides optimum nourishment to build the brain, bones, blood, muscle, tissue, nerves, and organs of a healthy fetus, but will also improve the quality and quantity of breast milk. Midwives usually recommend pregnant women drink nettle infusions for the last trimester, as its abundant vitamin K helps prevent hemorrhage. American Indian women drank nettle tea during pregnancy to strengthen the fetus and ease delivery. They also used it to stop bleeding after childbirth. Menopausal women also have a friend in nettle. With its rich stores of minerals, especially calcium, regular use of nettles will nourish your nervous system, calm and steady your nerves and strengthen your bones, thereby preventing osteoporosis. Consuming this herb often also helps ensure a healthy heart. Regular use of nettles will boost energy levels, ease depression and mood swings, and support healthy functioning of the kidneys and adrenal system, naturally stressed during menopause. Nettles are also highly regarded for their ability to balance blood sugar levels, enhance sexual performance and enjoyment, promote healthy hair growth, and alleviate chronic skin conditions such as eczema.
PASSIFLORA (passion Flower)
Passionflower gets its name from the beautiful flowers' radial filiments, which Christian missionaries likened to the crown of thorns used in Christ's crucifixion.
Passionflower eases anxiety, emotional stress and promotes peaceful sleep. Scientists believe that passionflower works by increasing levels of a chemical called gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA reduces the activity of some brain cells, inducing a greater state of relaxation. Passionflower is often combined with other herbs used for relaxation such as valerian, lemon balm, skullcap, or kava. Some people apply a poultice of the root of passion flower to the skin for use as a topical remedy for healing of the skin. It also has aphrodisiac properties.
Passionflower is a nervine, meaning that it has an effect on the nervous system, it can intensify the effects of prescription sedatives. The two should not be taken simultaneously.
RED CLOVER
Known by such names as "God given" and "prized herb", red clover is a humble little field herb with incredible healing gifts. Brimming with nutrients, red clover is especially mineral rich, loaded with calcium and magnesium, contains profuse amounts of protein, vitamin B complex and vitamin C. Red clover infusions can be enjoyed daily as a vitamin and mineral rich beverage with absolutely no risk of side effects. The National Cancer Institute has found anti-tumor properties in this herb, and no less than 33 cultures around the world use red clover to treat cancer. It has been found to contain at least four anti tumor compounds including daidzein and genistein. Red clover also contains significant amounts of antioxidants, especially tocopheral, a form of vitamin E shown to help prevent breast tumors in animals. Red clover is prescribed today for the treatment of breast, ovarian and lymphatic cancers. To augment other approaches to the treatment of these diseases, herbalists recommend drinking two to four cups of red clover blossom infusions daily. Massage red clover infused oil into the effected area several times daily, or use fresh flowers, or those strained from the infusion, as a poultice over the area. Phytosterol rich red clover blossoms have been used for centuries to balance the hormones and promote the production of estrogen. Red clover will help reduce the frequency of hot flashes and night sweats for the menopausal women. Red clover is the number one fertility enhancing herb and I can personally attest to its success in this area. It is a wonderful herb for regulating the menstrual cycle, although because it thins the blood it is best not used by women prone to heavy bleeding. Red clover contains salicylates and coumarins which are responsible for its blood thinning abilities and make red clover an excellent choice to tone and strengthen the heart and prevent stroke. Red clover can safely be used by pregnant women and nursing mothers. It will deeply nourish and help replenish minerals lost through pregnancy and lactation. It will also produce abundant breast milk as well as keep mother feeling relaxed and healthy.
SAW PALMETTO
Sweet, nutritive and tonic saw palmetto berries were highly valued by American Indian healers, and later used extensively by the Eclectic physicians around the turn of the century. Antiseptic to the urinary tract, bringing tone to the bladder, saw palmetto berries will come to your aid when dealing with urinary or bladder problems. It helps promote strong contractions of the bladder so that it can fully expel its contents. If an infection of the urinary system is suspected or diagnosed, it’s a good idea to combine saw palmetto with echinacea in equal amounts. Saw palmetto has a strong reputation as an aphrodisiac which may be attributed to its ability to nourish the reproductive system as well as the endocrine glands, enhancing all around sexual health. Saw palmetto’s nourishing and tonifying effects extend to the entire female reproductive system. Regular consumption of infusions of these phytosterol rich berries will bring health and vitality to ovarian, bladder, vaginal and breast tissue. Saw palmetto is a tissue builder, and will actually rebuild, moisturize and plump up dry or atrophied tissue in these areas.
SHATAVARI
One of the most powerful rejuvenating herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, Shatavari is commonly used in India for conditions affecting the female reproductive system, including the mood swings and irritation associated with premenstrual syndrome, as well as menopausal hot flashes. Sometimes translated as “she who possesses 100 husbands,” Shatavari also has a reputation as a fertility-enhancing plant that improves the health of both male and female reproductive tissues.Researchers have paid more attention to Shatavari’s immuno-modulating properties. Studies show that the herb strengthens the immune system by enhancing the functioning of macrophages ― the immune cells responsible for digesting potentially destructive organisms and cancer cells.
Scientists have also discovered that Shatavari helps the immune system recover more quickly from exposure to toxins by protecting blood-producing cells in the bone marrow and by enhancing the production of immune-regulating messenger molecules.
STARFLOWER OIL
Starflower Oil is extracted from the seed of the starflower plant (borage officinalis), a pretty blue flower that grows in parts of Europe and North Africa. Starflowers have long been known for their medicinal properties,and starflower oil is one of the secrets of blossoming health for today’s woman. Starflower oil is the most concentrated plant source of GLA (gammalinoleic acid) known to man. Used as an essential remedy for PMS, mood swings, menstrual cramps, breast tenderness and other menstrual problems as well as menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. GLA also has anti-inflammatory properties and may be indicated to alleviate the symptoms of colds, bronchitis, and respiratory infections in general. Starflower oil can also prove beneficial for eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions, and even high blood pressure.
ROSE
Flower of the Goddess and Queen of the Aromatics, roses have been in use since time immemorial. They are a beauty to behold, smell heavenly and possess much medicinal virtue. Nostradamus used the petals to treat The Black Death/Plague. Roses have a nourishing effect on the heart and circulatory system and are soothing to the nerves. They are renowned for having a tonic, balancing effect on the female reproductive system. Wild roses, sweet briar and other species, are rich in phytosterols, stimulate the production of estrogen in the body, and bioflavonoids which are also favorable to estrogen production. Any part of the rose plant, flower and leaves can be used to help balance the hormones, any time during a womens reproductive years. Roses can be used to alleviate headaches, relieve menstrual cramping and strengthen the bones. They are fabulous for the skin, and will sooth any irritated skin condition. The fruits of the rose, or rose hips, are bursting with nutrients, especially vitamin C, E, selenium and zinc. We throw them into winter teas as a boost to the immune system. They also increase brain power, concentration and focus.