50 Functional Foods & Medicinal Herbs
1. Açaí Berry – Sometimes called the Amazon's perfect "super berry" and is believed to be an exceptional antioxidant, which helps to build the body's natural defenses against infection and disease and protect the body from free radicals that can attack and destroy cells. Its fatty acids are believed to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis, stroke and heart attack. Often referred to as the "Fountain of Youth,” Açaí Fruit is reputed to restore the stamina and vitality of our younger days.
2. Agave – This flowering plant has long been used in the Mexico as an antiseptic, diuretic, laxative and for its healing/anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to lower fever by inducing perspiration and can also reduce indigestion, flatulence, constipation and dysentery. It has also been used in the treatment of syphilis.
3. Aloe Vera - This remarkable emollient is used to smooth wrinkles, heal skin irritations, soothe burns (including sunburn) and draw out infection from wounds. Aloe Vera has attracted the interest of modern physicians for its ability to heal radiation burns. Taken internally, Aloe Vera is a powerful laxative, anti-inflammatory and promotes healing. Aloe Vera is a natural source of beta-carotene, minerals, amino acids and the important antioxidant vitamins (A, C, E and B1, B2 and B3).
4. Ashwagandha - The herb acts as an overall tonic and works to stimulate the immune system and improving mental clarity and physical performance and is also reputed to enhance longevity, stimulate sexual vitality and increase sex drive. Ashwagandha is considered an effective anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-tussive that is also used as a pain reliever and mild sedative.
5. Astralagus - Oriental herbalists have used it for centuries to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, treat coronary heart problems and lower blood pressure. Many people also use it as an overall good-health tonic to support healthy digestion and to help increase energy levels and stamina.
6. Barley Grass - An extraordinarily nourishing food and a powerhouse of essential vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants and many more nutrients that your body needs every single day to optimize your health. Try it as a support for improved digestion, detoxified system, increased energy, rejuvenated skin and healthier-looking hair and nails.
7. Bee Pollen - A popular nutritious supplement that helps to enhance vitality, build the immune system, increase stamina and strength, and even combat depression.
8. Bilberry - Research shows that bilberry reduces eye irritation, nearsightedness and night-blindness, and it also extends range and clarity of vision. Pregnant women find the herb to be beneficial, as it fortifies veins and capillaries and combats fatigue.
9. Black Walnut - An exceptional laxative that relieves constipation and promotes bowel regularity. It is also thought to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as burn off fatty materials and toxins in the blood. Black Walnut Hull is often used to expel internal parasites, and it may even do away with troublesome warts.
10. Cascara - Sometimes called "the world's favorite laxative," and is famous as a safe, natural way to cleanse the colon (usually acting overnight). Cascara also stimulates the production of gastric juices, promoting good digestion, as well as bile secretions, which encourages healthy gallbladder function.
11. Chlorella - The world's highest-known source of chlorophyll and it is also one of the most nutritious substances on earth. Loaded with vitamins, important minerals and nucleic acid, this green algae is truly a gift of nature that is virtually a complete food. It is used to improve digestion, purify the blood, enhance immune function and possibly even slow down the ageing process.
12. Dandelion - Called the "free health food pharmacy" that grows everywhere! Both leaves and roots are considered to be a superior natural diuretic, fine blood cleanser and excellent tonic that can help detoxify the system, especially the liver and gallbladder.
13. Echinacea Angustifolia – Believed to be the most powerful natural antibiotic. Echinacea’s antiseptic, antiviral and antifungal qualities help to stimulate the body's resistance to infection, diseases, fever, blood poisoning, common colds and flu. Echinacea angustifolia is the "must-have" herb in your herbal medicine cabinet.
14. Elderberry - Used for its antioxidant activity and boosting the immune system, it may help with coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections. Elderberries contain amino acids, vitamin A, B and a large amount of vitamin C.
15. Essiac - Or essiac tea as it also called, is a herbal remedy that is taken to help in the treatment and possible cure of a variety of ailments. It is however better known for its virtues in fighting cancer.
16. Feverfew - Prevents the pain and nausea associated with migraines. The herb has been used since ancient times to lower fever and treat nervous and menstrual disorders, depression and pain.
17. Ginkgo Biloba - The world's most used treatment for memory loss and degenerative diseases of the brain and central nervous system. Because Ginkgo increases the circulation of blood and oxygen to all parts of the body, the herb is an effective overall tonic that aids in the treatment of a variety of conditions, ranging from impotence to ringing in the ears.
18. Goji Berry – Also called “wolfberry,” this herb has been used in China for over 2,000 years to help improve lymphocyte transformation and macrophage phagocytic function, as well as cancer prevention, liver protection, vision improvement and to slow the aging process.
19. Goldenseal - Native Americans have used goldenseal for various health conditions such as skin diseases, ulcers, and gonorrhea. Now, goldenseal is used for colds and other respiratory tract infections, infectious diarrhea and eye infections. It is also applied to wounds and canker sores, and is used as a mouthwash for sore gums, mouth, and throat.
20. Grape Seed Extract - used for conditions related to the heart and blood vessels, such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and poor circulation. Other reasons for the use of grape seed extract include complications related to diabetes, such as nerve and eye damage; vision problems, such as macular degeneration (which can cause blindness); and swelling after an injury or surgery. Grape seed extract is also used for cancer prevention and wound healing.
21. Guarana Seed - Contains a high amount of guaranine, a chemical substance with the same characteristics as caffeine. This makes guarana a stimulant similar to coffee. It is said to quicken perceptions, delay sleep and help with endurance based activities. Guarana is used in sweetened or carbonated soft drinks and energy shots, an ingredient of herbal tea or contained in capsules. Generally, South America obtains most of its caffeine from guarana
22. Gymnema Sylvestre - Due to its non-toxic nature and sweetness-suppression activity, gymnema sylvestre can play a role in treating conditions caused by excessive sugar intakes. Conditions like obesity, hyperglycemia, anemia and osteoporosis can also be helped by using gymnema sylvestre. Gymnema comes to us from mainland India and several parts of Africa and has a deep history rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. Currently it is one of the major botanicals being administered for those suffering from diabetes, in boosting insulin levels and controlling healthy blood sugar levels.
23. Hawthorn Berry - Hawthorn contains many substances that may benefit the heart. However, it appears that two substances in particular - flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs) - are most likely to contribute to hawthorn's beneficial effects on the heart. Today, many health care professionals use hawthorn to help protect against heart disease and help control high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
24. Huperzine - A natural cholinesterase inhibitor derived from the Chinese herb huperzia serrata. There is evidence that huperzine may compare favorably in symptomatic efficacy to cholinesterase inhibitors currently in use. In addition, huperzine has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that suggest that it may be useful as a disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The drug is currently available as a nutraceutical in this country, and is being used by some U.S. clinicians to treat AD.
25. Kava Kava - Perhaps best known for its relaxing qualities. Kava is said to elevate mood, well-being, and contentment, and produce a feeling of relaxation. Several studies have found that kava may be useful in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and related nervous disorders. Reports linking kava with liver damage has prompted regulatory agencies in Europe and Canada to warn consumers of the potential risks associated with this herb, and even to remove kava-containing products from the market.
26. Lo Han - Lo Han is fruit from a plant cultivated in the mountains of Southern China. Lo Han has a pleasant and sweet taste without elevating blood sugar. Lo Han is much sweeter than sugar.
27. Lutein - A carotenoid, meaning a natural colorant or pigment, found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, plus various fruits and corn. Egg yolks are also sources of lutein. Lutein provides nutritional support to our eyes and skin – the only organs of the body directly exposed to the outside environment. Lutein has been linked to promoting healthy eyes through reducing the risk of macular degeneration.
28. Maitake Mushroom – Rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the finest immuno-stimulants known. Used in Oriental medicine for over three thousand years, new scientific research in Japan and the United States has discovered some powerful compounds that have shown significant carcinogenesis prevention activity in tests. Regarded as the most potent immune-enhancing of all the mushrooms, current studies are revealing some promising data that may provide hope for HIV patients.
29. Mangosteen - The sliced and dried rind is powdered and administered to overcome dysentery. Made into an ointment, it is applied on eczema and other skin disorders. The rind is taken to relieve diarrhea and cystitis, gonorrhea and gleet and is applied externally as an astringent lotion. It may also be used as a remedy for chronic diarrhea in adults and children and to treat thrush, dysentery and urinary disorders.
30. Milk Thistle - Used for over 2,000 years as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly liver problems. Several scientific studies suggest that substances in milk thistle (especially a flavonoid called silymarin) protects the liver from toxins, including certain drugs such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), which can cause liver damage in high doses. Silymarin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help the liver repair itself by growing new cells. Although a number of animal studies demonstrate that milk thistle can be helpful in protecting the liver, results in human studies are mixed.
31. Mullein Leaf- Used to remedy respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, croup and other breathing difficulties. It is a fine expectorant that stimulates the cough reflex, clearing out congestion and expelling excess respiratory phlegm and mucus. Its high mucilage content also soothes and tones the mucous membranes of the respiratory system and reduces inflammation. The mucilage in Mullein lubricates the throat and lungs, even as it promotes expectoration, easing the bronchial passages, throat irritation and laryngitis. Mullein Leaf is an anodyne that is said to relieve pain, including headaches and migraines. It is slightly sedative and is said to promote a sound sleep and ease nervous tension.
32. Noni Berry - Used for thousands of years in the South Pacific as a tonic that boosts the immune system and supports the entire body by flushing toxins from the kidneys. Now, although debate continues, many people claim that it helps a wide range of symptoms, including poor digestion, high blood pressure, gout and respiratory problems.
33. Pau d'Arco Bark - One of the best known herbs from the Amazonian rainforest, used as whole herb to treat infections and cancer. The scientific study of pau d'arco is still very preliminary. There is a great deal of practical evidence, however, that pau d'arco can be used with success to treat colds, flu, sore throat, and yeast infections, and there is laboratory evidence that the herb contains compounds that protect against tropical diseases, specifically malaria, schistosomiasis, and tropical fevers. The herb is added to ointments to treat psoriasis, and taken orally to relieve ulcers.
34. Pine Bark - Proponents claim that pine bark extract is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are compounds that block the action of free radicals, activated oxygen molecules that can damage cells. Supporters believe pine bark extract protects against arthritis, complications from diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and problems with circulation such as swelling and varicose veins. Other reported benefits include improved memory, fewer effects from stress, better joint flexibility, and decreased inflammation. Some claim that pine bark extract supplements are much more effective in eliminating free radicals than vitamins C and E.
35. Red Clover Flower - Used to treat the symptoms of menopause. It has also been reported that red clover has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, such as bronchitis, burns, cancers, ulcers, sedation, asthma, and syphilis. The flowering tops of the red clover plant are used to prepare extracts available in tablets and capsules, as well as in teas and liquid forms.
36. Red Yeast Rice - Red yeast rice is a product of yeast that is grown on rice. It is marketed as Cholestin, Monascus, Zhi Tai, hong qu, red koji, red rice, Xue Zhi Kang, and others. Red yeast rice has been used with diet, exercise, and medical care to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It may reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, and may also increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL).
37. Reishi Mushrooms - In Chinese medicine, reishi mushrooms are known as ling zhi, which means spiritual plant as the Chinese believe the herb is healing for the spirit. They have been used in China and Japan for years as a health tonic and as folk medicine for liver problems, heart conditions, asthma, cancer, high blood pressure, and arthritis. In Traditional Chinese medicine, reishi mushrooms are classified in a group of herbs known as Fu Zheng, which Chinese herbalists believe are the most powerful herbs for all-around strength, health, and longevity.
38. Rhodiola - An adaptogenic herb, meaning that it acts in non-specific ways to increase resistance without disturbing normal biological functions. The herb grows at high altitudes in the arctic areas of Europe and Asia, and its root has been used in traditional medicine in Russia and the Scandinavian countries for centuries. A 2002 review in Herbalgram, the Journal of the American Botanical Council, reported that over the years, numerous studies of rhodiola in humans and animals have shown that it helps prevent fatigue, stress and the damaging effects of oxygen deprivation. Evidence also suggests that it has an antioxidant effect, enhances immune system function and can increase sexual energy.
39. Rooibos Tea - Becoming more popular in Western countries due to its high level of antioxidants such as aspalathin and nothofagin, its lack of caffeine, and its low tannin levels compared to fully oxidized black tea or unoxidized green tea leaves. Rooibos also contains a number of phenolic compounds, including flavanols, flavones, flavanones, and dihydrochalcones. Rooibos is used to assist with nervous tension, allergies and digestive problems. Traditional medicinal uses of rooibos in South Africa include alleviating infantile colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems.
40. Resveratrol - Red wine is brimming with resveratrol. It is found in high concentrations in the skin of the grape, and seems to play a role in protecting it from invading bacteria and fungi. It is thought that this is one reason those following the Mediterranean diet have much lower instances of inflammatory disease despite consuming more fat and calories. Its use in fighting cancer is very promising and many studies are being conducted to test its use in preventing Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
41. Schizandra Berry - Women in China rely on schizandra to preserve their beauty and maintain youth, and both men and women are said to benefit from its qualities as a sexual enhancer. For thousands of years the herb has been cherished as an anti-ageing tonic that is believed to increase stamina and mental clarity and fight against fatigue and stress.
42. Senna - Played a major role in herbalism and folk medicine. Senna alexandrina is used in modern medicine as a laxative; acting on the lower bowel, it is especially useful in alleviating constipation. This popular herbal laxative has made its way into multiple products on the cleansing market.
43. Spirulina - Promotes health in many ways. It powerfully protects from oxidant stress and strongly supports the immune system and a healthy inflammatory response. Scientific studies suggest it may be especially good for the brain, heart, immune system and more. This tiny aquatic plant has been eaten by humans since prehistoric times and is grown worldwide as a healthy food.
44. St John’s Wort - St. John's wort has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve pain. St. John's wort has also been used as a sedative and a treatment for malaria, as well as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. Today, St. John's wort is used by some for depression, anxiety, and/or sleep disorders.
45. Stevia Leaf - Nature's sugar substitute that is said to be a safe, all-natural, zero-calorie alternative to refined sugar, but is also used as an herbal supplement to regulate blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure and LDLs (bad cholesterol). People who ingest Stevia daily often report a decrease in their desire for sweets and fatty foods, which may be very helpful for dieters, and its antibacterial qualities help to promote healthy and clear skin, scalp and lustrous hair.
46. Valerian- Valerian is believed to have been used since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. It was used as a folk remedy for a variety of conditions such as sleeping problems, digestive complaints, nervousness, trembling, tension headaches and heart palpitations. Valerian's popularity waned with the introduction of prescription sleep medication.
47. Vinpocetine - In the United States and Canada, it’s sold in health food stores and online as a dietary supplement. Vinpocetine is thought to increase blood circulation in the brain, which may explain why some preliminary studies suggest that it may reduce brain impairment and dementia after an ischemic stroke. Vinpocetine is also being explored as a complementary treatment for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
48. Wheat Grass - Packed with vitamins, minerals and all the amino acids necessary to build and maintain a healthy system, Wheat Grass helps to boost your natural immunity, increase your stamina and energy and may also reduce your risk of some serious diseases. Some people even claim it keeps hair from graying!
49. Wormwood - Used by herbalists to improve digestion, to fight worm infestations, and to stimulate menstruation. It was also regarded as a useful remedy for liver and gallbladder problems. The herb is also used to make a tea for helping pregnant women during pain of labor.
50. Yellow Dock- Yellow dock is primarily used in the treatment of digestive problems, liver diseases, and skin disorders. It has been described as an alternative, astringent, hepatic, laxative, and nutritive. Yellow dock is also used as a mild laxative. Yellow dock is also used to help support and restore liver function, which is why it is called a hepatic.
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