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Prescription for Dietary Wellness: Using Foods to Heal Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts

Turmeric is the primary anti-inflammatory herb of ayurvedic medicine. Its antibacterial action helps to retard food spoilage and treat wounds. It helps blood flow, reduces cholesterol levels, and improves blood vessel health. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that reduces swelling, making it useful in treating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis. Researchers at the University of Texas in Houston have shown that turmeric inhibits cancer. It also inhibited the spread of HIV in laboratory tests. Traditionally, turmeric has been used as a digestive aid and a liver stimulant.

The New Optimum Nutrition Bible Patrick Holford See book keywords and concepts

Ashwagandha is a promising natural remedy that has been used for hundreds of years as part of ayurvedic medicine in India. The active ingredients of this powerful natural anti-inflammatory herb are "withanolides." In animal studies, ashwagandha has proven highly effective against arthritis. In one study, animals with arthritis were given ashwagandha, hydrocortisone, or placebo. While hydrocortisone produced a 44 percent reduction in symptoms, ashwagandha produced an 89 percent reduction, making it substantially more effective than cortisone.34 Try 1,000 mg a day of the root, providing 1.

The Okinawa Diet Plan : Get Leaner, Live Longer, and Never Feel Hungry Bradley J. Willcox, M.D., D. Craig Willcox, Ph.D., Makoto Suzuki, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

Turmeric is frequently used in ayurvedic medicine and traditional Okinawan medicine as a metabolism booster, and when combined with bitter herbs such as barberry, it is said to eliminate "excess fat." It's also used as an antimicrobial, liver protectant, and stimulant for poor digestion. Scientists have studied turmeric for antioxidant properties,29 for use as an anti-cancer agent,30 with respect to heartburn and stomach ulcers,31 and as a treatment for arthritis,32 high cholesterol,33 and HIV.

Indian Herbal Remedies: Rational Western Therapy, Ayurvedic and Other Traditional Usage, Botany C. P. Khare See book keywords and concepts

Other uses are similar to those in ayurvedic medicine. Active principles and pharmacology The two principal alkaloids, hyoscine and atro-pine/hyoscyamine were found in all parts of the plant. Fruits contain daturaolone and daturadiol. Roots gave several additional alkaloids, including ditigloyloxytropane derivatives, tigloidine, apohyoscine, nor-hyoscine, meteloidine, nor-hyo-scyamine, cuscohygrine and tropine. The leaf possesses anti-tumour, and anti-rheumatic properties; kills lice and other vermin. The leaf and corolla are found efficacious in swellings, flowers in asthma.

Fundamentals of Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy Dr. Michael Heinrich, Joanne Barnes, Simon Gibbons and Elizabeth M. Williamson See book keywords and concepts

The first school to teach ayurvedic medicine was at the University of Banaras in 500 BC and the great Samhita (or encyclopaedia of medicine) was written. Seven hundred years later another great encyclopaedia was written and these two together form the basis of Ayurveda. The living and the non-living environment, including humans, is composed of the elements earth {prithvi), water (Jala), fire (tejac), air (vaju) and space (akasa). For an understanding of these traditions, the concept of impurity and cleansing is also essential.

Indian Herbal Remedies: Rational Western Therapy, Ayurvedic and Other Traditional Usage, Botany C. P. Khare See book keywords and concepts

Classical use In ayurvedic medicine, the plant has been included in Rodhraadi and Kadambaadi group of herbs. These groups are adipogenous, retentive and inspissant to semen, aphrodisiac and cure affections of female genital tract, urinary disorders, anemia and skin diseases. Charaka and Sushruta used the resin or the bark as a sedative, antitoxic, antiseptic, astringent, and in haemoptysis. In folk medicine, the fruit juice, along with cumin (Jeera) and sugar is given to children in gastric irritability.

Cancer Therapy: The Independent Consumer's Guide To Non-Toxic Treatment & Prevention Ralph W. Moss, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

For further information on Ayur-Veda, one can contact the American Association of ayurvedic medicine, Box 282, Fairfield, IA 52556. Phone: 515-472-5866. For orders: 800255-8332. A Journal of the Central Council for Ayur-veda and Siddha Medicine is published in New Delhi, India. Ayurvedic practitioners in the United States include: Scott Gerson, MD, ayurvedic medicine of New York, 13 West 9th St, New York, NY 10011. Phone: 212-505-8971. Karta Purkh Khalsa, Khalsa Health Center, 1305 Northeast 45th St., Suite 205, Seattle, WA 98105. Phone: 206-547-2007, Fax: 206-547-4240.

Indian Herbal Remedies: Rational Western Therapy, Ayurvedic and Other Traditional Usage, Botany C. P. Khare See book keywords and concepts

Classical use The common use in ayurvedic medicine is in abdominal discomfort, colic, wind, and for promoting digestion. Specific uses are in fever, jaundice, intestinal and genito-urinary tract infections; also in rheumatic affections as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent. Charaka prescribed the paste of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum), castor seeds (Ricinus communis) and Shatapushpaa pounded with milk for external application in rheumatic and other swellings of the joints. Kaashyapa Samhitaa attributed tonic, rejuvenating and intellect-promoting properties to the herb.

The Natural Medicine Guide to the 50 Most Common Medicinal Herbs Heather Boon, BScPhm, PhD and Michael Smith, BPharm, MRPharmS, ND See book keywords and concepts

Traditional Use Although alfalfa has been used medicinally in Traditional Chinese Medicine (to treat digestive disorders) and ayurvedic medicine (for digestive conditions, as a diuretic and in the treatment of arthritis), it is not often mentioned in North American textbooks of herbal medicine.1 Current Medicinal Use Modern day herbalists consider alfalfa to be a good general tonic, due largely to its reputation as an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and protein. While more research is needed, alfalfa may be effective in reducing high cholesterol levels.

Turmeric is used medicinally in both Traditional Chinese and ayurvedic medicine for a variety of inflammatory conditions (arthritis and allergies), liver disorders (jaundice), flatulence, menstrual difficulties, bruises and colic.2 Current Medicinal Use Turmeric products are primarily used today in the treatment of joint inflammation, such as arthritis and sports injuries. It is increasingly becoming popular in protecting the liver against environmental toxins.

Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: The Definitive Guide Thomas Bartram See book keywords and concepts

A strict daily discipline embraces yoga and special foods to maintain a sound and wholesome life. ayurvedic medicine regards the herb Valerian as important for epilepsy. Important Ayurvedic medicines include Borage, Liquorice, Cinnamon, Garlic, Gotu Kola and Wild Yam, renowned for their versatility. Of special importance to this system of medicine is the hypoglycaemic plant, Gymnema sylvestre, used since the 6th century for a condition known as "honey urine", which today grows in popularity in the West for the treatment of diabetes. BACH, DR EDWARD 1886-1936. English Physician.

The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies Mark Stengler, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Boswellia is one of these valuable herbs that originates in ayurvedic medicine. It is often used to treat inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and cervical spondylitis. It also has been used in traditional ayurvedic medicine for diarrhea, chronic lung disorders, menstrual disorders, and skin problems. Though the use of boswellia was initiated in India, today it is commonly prescribed in the West, particularly Europe and now North America.

Fundamentals of Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy Dr. Michael Heinrich, Joanne Barnes, Simon Gibbons and Elizabeth M. Williamson See book keywords and concepts

Ashwagandha has been used in ayurvedic medicine for over 4000 years, as an adaptogen, sedative and tonic for debility. It is used to enhance fertility in both men and women and as an aphrodisiac. The name 'ashwagandha' comes from the Sanskrit ashva (meaning 'horse') and gandha (meaning 'smell'), and refers to the odour of the root. It is also widely used for inflammation, colds, asthma and many other disorders. Constituents The root contains steroidal lactones (the withanolides A-Y), withaferin A (Fig. 24.1

Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices Of Herbal Medicine David Hoffman, FNIMH, AHG See book keywords and concepts

Forskolin and the Activation of Adenylate Cyclase Coleus forskohlii, a plant used in ayurvedic medicine, is the source of a compound of unique biological importance. A screening of medicinal plants by the Indian Central Drug Research Institute revealed the presence of a hypotensive and spasmolytic component in C. forskohlii, a labdane diterpene named forskolin. Forskolin works by activating adenylate cyclase, an enzyme that raises levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cells.9 Cyclic AMP is a vital cell-regulating compound involved in a variety of cellular functions.

Indian Herbal Remedies: Rational Western Therapy, Ayurvedic and Other Traditional Usage, Botany C. P. Khare See book keywords and concepts

In ayurvedic medicine, Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) is also known as Vijayaa (first mentioned by Sushruta). It is a totally different drug. Capparidaceae | CAPPARIS Capparis decidua Edgew. Capparis aphylla Roth. Habitat In the deserts, especially in Rajasthan, Punjab and Sindh; southward to Karnataka. Classical & common names Ayurvedic: Karira, Krakar, Apatra, Granthil, Marubhooruh, Karila. Unani: Kabar-ul-Hind (Arabic), Kabar-e-Hindi (Persian); Tenti. Siddha: Chhengan. English: Caper Berry. Parts used Root-bark, fruit, stem-oil. Dose Powder 50-125 mg.

Rational Phytotherapy: A Reference Guide for Physicians and Pharmacists volker schulz and Rudolf Hansel See book keywords and concepts

Withania somnifera Dunal (ashwagandha) as a commonly used herb in ayurvedic medicine. It is an ingredient in many formulations prescribed for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and as a general tonic to increase energy; improve overall health and longevity; and prevent disease in athletes, the elderly, and during pregnancy. A total of 58 articles were found pertaining to the antiinflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hemopoetic (formation of red blood cells) and rejuvenating properties of ashwagandha.

The Doctor's Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia Sheldon Saul Hendler See book keywords and concepts

Triphala (The Chicken Soup of ayurvedic medicine) If there is anything akin to chicken soup in ayurvedic medicine (traditional Indian medicine), it is triphala. Triphala is a preparation made up of three different herbs each in equal amounts. The herbs are amalki, or Emplica officinales; haritaki, or Terminala chebula; and bibhitaki, or Terminala belerica. Triphala has been used for nearly every ailment by the Ayurvedic practitioners. Triphala is supposed to be helpful for the treatment of heart disease, diabetes and constipation.

The Inflammation Syndrome: The Complete Nutritional Program to Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease, Arthritis, Diabetes, Allergies, and Asthma Jack Challem See book keywords and concepts

Native to Asia, curcumin is one of the oldest and most cherished anti-inflammatory herbs in Indian ayurvedic medicine. Turmeric root and curcumin are mild Cox-2 inhibitors but are not as powerful and not as dangerous as popular Cox-2-inhibiting drugs. According to recent experiments, they block the activity of "NF kappa B," a protein that turns on inflammation-promoting genes. This effect and similar ones too complex to discuss here also suggest that the herbs also might reduce the risk of cancer. Animal studies have found that turmeric root and curcumin may reduce arthritic symptoms.

Whole Foods Companion: A Guide For Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers, and lovers of natural foods Dianne Onstad See book keywords and concepts

Both macrobiotic and ayurvedic medicine recommend using the nightshade vegetables, especially tomatoes and potatoes, in moderation if at all. In his book The Nightshades and Health, Norman E Childers, Ph.D., professor of horticulture at Rutgers University, reveals a correlation between rheumatoid arthritis and nightshade consumption. According to his studies, when some people eliminate these foods from their diet, their arthritic symptoms are alleviated or even disappear.

The Doctor's Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia Sheldon Saul Hendler See book keywords and concepts

Triphala (The Chicken Soup of ayurvedic medicine) If there is anything akin to chicken soup in ayurvedic medicine (traditional Indian medicine), it is triphala. Triphala is a preparation made up of three different herbs each in equal amounts. The herbs are amalki, or Emplica officinales; haritaki, or Terminala chebula; and bibhitaki, or Terminala belerica. Triphala has been used for nearly every ailment by the Ayurvedic practitioners. Triphala is supposed to be helpful for the treatment of heart disease, diabetes and constipation.

Prescription Alternatives, Third Edition: Hundreds of Safe, Natural Prescription-Free Remedies to Restore and Maintain Your Health Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

Guggul: Taking this is a new but old way to lower cholesterol. ayurvedic medicine is an ancient form of healing from India that relies largely on dividing people into body and personality types, and then prescribing a variety of treatments that include plant medicines. Lately we've been learning more about the large number of safe, effective medicines Ayurveda has in its pharmacy, and scientific research is following. One of the best known Ayurvedic medicines is called guggul, a plant traditionally used mainly to treat arthritis and obesity.

Whole Foods Companion: A Guide For Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers, and lovers of natural foods Dianne Onstad See book keywords and concepts

Trikatu, the most important stimulant and digestive tonic in ayurvedic medicine, is made of equal parts black pepper, long pepper, and ground ginger. Combine Vi teaspoon of this blend with one cup of hot water and a teaspoon of honey. It's a great morning wake-up drink that doesn't have the side effects of caffeinated beverages. Hot and warm with sweet overtones, long pepper has a higher content of piperine (the primary micronutrient in black pepper) than does black pepper. It aids digestion and has decongestant, antibiotic, and analgesic effects.

Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals: A Handbook for Practice on a Scientific Basis Josef A. Brinckmann and Michael P. Lindenmaier See book keywords and concepts

The material used in ayurvedic medicine is cultivated in almost all states of India. The material used in Chinese and Japanese medicine is cultivated in southern China, Taiwan, and Japan. Constituents: 3—5% curcuminoids [1, 2] (yellow colored, alcohol-soluble dicinnamoyl methane derivatives which cannot be steam-vaporized), consisting mainly of curcumin (di-feruloylmethane), monodesmethoxycurcumin and bisdesmethoxycurcumin (according to DAC, not less than 3.0%, calculated as curcumin). Several other diarylheptanes [3, 4] and diarylpentanes [4] have also been detected.

In folk medicine, it is used against worms and as a component of embrocations for rheumatism and arthralgia. In ayurvedic medicine, the powdered fruit or the aqueous infusion are used as a carminative for treatment of flatulence, indigestion, vomiting, and other intestinal disorders [7—9]. In Unani medicine, the powdered fruit or the essential oil are used in flatulence, weakness of stomach, diarrhea due to indigestion; to quench excessive thirst; in melancholia, among other conditions [10]. Above all, coriander is used as a spice (e.g.

Clove is used as a carminative and stomachic in ayurvedic medicine [12, 13] Excerpt from the German Commission E monograph (BAn% no. 223, Published November 30, 1985) Uses Inflammatory changes of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. In dentistry, as a topical anesthetic. Contraindications None known. Side effects In concentrated form, clove oil irritates the tissues. Interactions with other drugs None known. Dosage Unless otherwise prescribed: in mouthwashes corresponding to 1-5 percent essential oil. In dentistry, undiluted essential oil.

The material used in ayurvedic medicine and in Tibetan medicine is collected in the wild and cultivated throughout India. The United Plant Savers (UpS) organization has proposed that wild populations of calamus in North America be placed on their "At Risk List" though further research is needed. Constituents: 2—6% (sometimes up to 9%) essential oil (in oil cells), consisting of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and phenyl-propanes (API, OAB and Ph. Helv., not less than 2.0%, with an upper limit of 0.5% ot-isoasarone, according to Ph. Helv.).

Bottom Line's Prescription Alternatives Earl L. Mindell, RPh, PhD with Virginia Hopkins, MA See book keywords and concepts

Ashwagandha This is an herb originally used in ayurvedic medicine in India. Like ginseng, it is a tonic herb and was traditionally used to improve libido and sexual performance. Arginine The amino acid arginine is involved in the production of the neurotransmitter and artery-relaxing substance nitric oxide. If you remember, Viagra has its effect through relaxing the arteries in the penis. Arginine has a similar effect on some men, although it is not as potent. Try 1,200 to 1,500 mg of L-arginine on an empty stomach.

Whole Foods Companion: A Guide For Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers, and lovers of natural foods Dianne Onstad See book keywords and concepts

It acts on the higher cerebral functions and brain tissue to help expand and bring clarity to the consciousness. In ayurvedic medicine, calamus is used to help restote mental acuity after damage done by drugs or other causes. An alcohol extract is used externally as a rub to alleviate tired and sote muscles and as a stimulating agent in baths. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) Also Known As: Pot Marigold It was the Romans who recorded that calendulas were usually in bloom on the first day, or calends, of every month; from this observation came the Latin generic name Calendula.

Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals: A Handbook for Practice on a Scientific Basis Josef A. Brinckmann and Michael P. Lindenmaier See book keywords and concepts

Calamus rhizome is used in Tibetan medicine in the treatment of weak digestive heat, indigestion, inflammation, diphtheria, sudden swelling and coma due to heart disorders [23, 24], and it is also used in ayurvedic medicine [25]. Risks: Mutagenic [14], chromosome-damaging [15] and carcinogenic effects [16, 17, 18] have been described for tfjtisoasarone. By comparison to other mutagenic/carcino-genic natural substances, or-isoasarone is classified as relatively weak in action. It is not clear whether the observed carcinogenic effects in rats are relevant to the human organism.

Whole Foods Companion: A Guide For Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers, and lovers of natural foods Dianne Onstad See book keywords and concepts

In macrobiotic literatute Job's tears is acclaimed for its anticancer properties; it is considered too strong ro consume during pregnancy and menstruation. In ayurvedic medicine it is used as a blood purifier. Low in fat and high in calcium and iron. Kamut (Triticum durum) Linnaeus provided the genus name Triticum, an old Latin name for "cereal"; durum means "hard." Kamut is an ancient Egyptian word that is believed to refer to wheat.

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