Islamic Medicine and Natural Remedies

ISLAMIC MEDICINE & NATURAL HERBAL CURES…
Edited & Compiled By Al Barone
AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF HERBS & SPICES NATURAL HEALING & REMEDIAL CURES FOR
CHRONIC ILLNESSES & REGULAR FLU & HEADACHES & OTHER AILMENTS.
Introduction.
This book is aimed at shedding light on ancient Islamic and Prophetic medicine in the light of modern
holistic and naturaceutical medicine.
The Canon of Medicine (Arabic: ‫ القانون في الطب‬al-Qānūn fī al-Ṭibb) is an encyclopedia of medicine in five
books compiled by Persian philosopher Ibn Sīnā (Avicenna) and completed in 1025.[1] It presents a clear and
organized summary of all the medical knowledge of the time. It is a "magisterial exposition of Galenic medicine",
although while Avicenna accepted Galen's evidence on anatomical matters he preferred Aristotle's theories where
they differed from Galen.[2] It served as a more concise reference in contrast to Galen's twenty volumes of medical
corpus.[3] As part of the Arabic translation project Ibn-Sina drew on various sources in the writing of his Canon an
important one being the extensive pathology text from Chinese medicine called the Zhubing Yuanhuo Lun written in
about 610 by Chao Yuan-fang. Ibn-Sina also drew on the early Chinese pulse diagnosis classic text the Maijing by
Wang Shu-hu which was written in circa 310.[4]
Originally written in the Arabic language, the book was later translated into a number of other languages, including
Persian, Latin, Chinese, Hebrew, German, French, and English with many commentaries.[5][6] The Canon is
considered one of the most famous books in the history of medicine.[7]
The word Canon in the title derives from the cognate Arabic original Qanun (the English word "canon" comes from
Latin canōn, from Ancient Greek κανών (kanón, "measuring rod, standard"), while the Arabic word "qanun" comes
directly from the same Ancient Greek root). The Canon of Medicine remained a medical authority for centuries. It set
the standards for medicine in Medieval Europe and the Islamic world, and is Avicenna's most renowned written
work. Qanun was used at many medical schools; at University of Montpellier, France, it was used as late as
1650.[8] The Canon was used as a medical textbook through the 18th century in Europe. [9] It is used in Unani
(Ionian) medicine, a form of traditional medicine practiced in India.
George Sarton wrote in the Introduction to the History of Science:
"One of the most famous exponents of Muslim universalism and an eminent figure in Islamic learning was Ibn Sina,
known in the West as Avicenna (981-1037). For a thousand years he has retained his original renown as one of the
greatest thinkers and medical scholars in history. His most important medical works are the Qanun (Canon) and a
treatise on Cardiac drugs. The 'Qanun' is an immense encyclopedia of medicine. It contains some of the most
illuminating thoughts pertaining to distinction of mediastinitis from pleurisy; contagious nature of phthisis; distribution
of diseases by water and soil; careful description of skin troubles; of sexual diseases and perversions; of nervous
ailments."
Influence in Europe
A Latin copy of the Canon of Medicine, dated 1484, located at the P.I. Nixon Medical Historical Library of
the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
The Qanun was translated into Latin as Canon medicinae by Gerard of Cremona. (Confusingly there appear to have
been two men called Gerard of Cremona, both translators of Arabic texts into Latin. Ostler states that it was the later
of these, also known as Gerard de Sabloneta, who translated the Qanun (and other medical works) into Latin in the
13th century.)[10] It became increasingly influential through the medieval period, and was a main text in university
courses by 1340.[11] Its encyclopaedic content, its systematic arrangement and philosophicalmarrying of the medicine
of Galen with the theory of science of Aristotle helped it become one of the pre-eminent works in the medical
literature of Europe. The Canon's influence declined in the 16th century as a result of humanists' preference in
medicine for ancient Greek and Roman authorities over Arabic authorities, although others defended Avicenna's
innovations beyond the original classical texts. It fell out of favour in university syllabi, although it was still being
taught as background as late as 1715 in Padua.[11]
The first three books of the Latin Canon were printed in 1472, and a complete edition appeared in 1473. In the last 30
years of the 15th century it passed through 15 Latin editions. It was one of the most frequently printed medical books
of the 15th and 16th centuries.[11] In recent years, a partial translation into English was made.
Sir William Osler described the Canon as "the most famous medical textbook ever written", noting that it remained "a
medical bible for a longer time than any other work." [12]
Overview
The book explains the causes of health and disease. Ibn Sina believed that the human body cannot be restored to
health unless the causes of both health and disease are determined. He defined medicine (tibb) as follows:
"Medicine is the science by which we learn the various states of the body; in health, when not in health; the means by
which health is likely to be lost; and, when lost, is likely to be restored. In other words, it is the art whereby health is
concerned and the art by which it is restored after being lost." [13]
Avicenna regarded the causes of good health and diseases to be:
1. The Material Causes
2. The Elements
3. The Humors
4. The Variability of the Tumors
5. The Temperaments
6. The Psychic Faculties
7. The Vital Force
8. The Organs
9. The Efficient Causes
10. The Formal Causes
11. The Vital Faculties
12. The Final Causes
The Qanun distinguishes mediastinitis from pleurisy and recognises the contagious nature of phthisis (tuberculosis of
the lung) and the spread of disease by water and soil. TheQanun considered important factors in health were air
(including breathing but also "bad" air); food and drink; movement and rest; sleep; bowel and urinary health; and
emotions.[14]The Qanun 's Materia Medica lists 800 substances, and the Formulary lists recipes for 650 compound
drugs from various sources, with Avicenna's comments on different recipes and his views on the effectiveness of
particular drugs.[2][15] He recommended the testing of a new drug on humans to determine its effectiveness,
cautioning against testing on animals because of the risk it would affect animals differently from humans.
The earliest known copy of volume 5 of the Canon of Medicine dated 1052 is held in the collection of the Aga
Khan and is to be housed in the Aga Khan Museum planned forToronto, Ontario, Canada.[16]
Book 1 Part 1
Book 1 is made up of six theses which give a general description of medicine in general, the cosmic elements that
make up the cosmos and the human body, the mutual interaction of elements (temperaments), fluids of the body
(humours), human anatomy, and physiology.[17]
Thesis I Definition and Scope of Medicine

Avicenna begins part one by dividing theoretical medicine and medical practice. He describes what he says are the
"four causes" of illness, based on Aristotelian philosophy: The material cause, the efficient cause, the formal cause:
1. Material Cause Avicenna says that this cause is the human subject itself, the "members or the breath" or
"the humours" indirectly.
2. Efficient Cause The efficient cause is broken up into two categories: The first is "Extrinsic", or the sources
external to the human body such as air or the region we live in. The second efficient cause is the "Intrinsic",
or the internal sources such as our sleep and "its opposite-the waking state", the "different periods of life",
habits, and race.
3. Formal Cause The formal cause is what Avicenna called "the constitutions ; the compositions". According to
Oskar Cameron Gruner, who provides a treatise within Avicenna's Canon of Medicine, this was in
agreement with Galen who believed that the formal cause of illness is based upon the individual's
temperament.
4. Final Cause The final cause is given as "the actions or functions".[18]
Thesis II The Elements or Cosmology
Avicenna's thesis on the elements of the cosmos is described by Gruner as "the foundation of the whole Canon". [19]
Avicenna insists here that a physician must assume the four elements that are described by natural philosophy
(see Classical elements),[20] although Avicenna makes it clear that he distinguishes between the "simple" element,
not mixed with anything else, and what we actually experience as water or air, such as the sea or the atmosphere.
The elements we experience are mixed with small amounts of other elements and are therefore not the pure
elemental substances.[21] The "light" elements are fire and air, while the "heavy" are earth and water. Ibn Sina
(Avicenna) goes on to describe each of the four elements in detail.
1. The Earth Avicenna upholds Aristotelian philosophy by describing Earth as an element that is geocentric.
The Earth is at rest, and other things tend towards it because of its intrinsic weight. It is cold and dry. [22]
2. The Water Water is described as being exterior to the sphere of the Earth and interior to the sphere of the
Air, because of its relative density. It is cold and moist. "Being moist, shapes can be readily fashioned (with
it), and as easily lost (and resolved)."[22]
3. The Air The position of Air above Water and beneath Fire is "due to its relative lightness". It is "hot and
moist", and its effect is to "rarefy" and make things "softer". [23]
4. The (sphere of the) Fire Fire is higher than the other elements, "for it reaches to the world of the heavens".
It is hot and dry; it traverses the substance of the air, and subdues the coldness of the two heavy elements;
"by this power it brings the elementary properties into harmony." [24]
Thesis III The Temperaments

The Canon of Medicine divides the thesis on temperaments into three subsections; a general overview, one based on
members of the body, and temperaments based on age.
I The Temperaments (General description)
The temperaments are reported to be the interaction between the four different element's qualities, such as the
conflict between dryness, wetness, cold, and hot. Avicenna suggests that these qualities battle between each other
until an equilibrium state is reached and this state is known as the temperaments. [25]
The Canon also adopted the ancient theory of Four Temperaments and extended it to encompass
"emotional aspects, mental capacity, moral attitudes, self-awareness, movements and dreams." It summarized
Avicenna's own theory of four temperaments in a table presented as follows:[26]
Avicenna's four primary temperaments
Evide
Hot Cold Moist Dry
nce
Morbi
inflammations become fe fevers related to serious
d lassitude loss of vigour
brile humour,rheumatism
states
Functi
onal deficient energy deficient digestive power difficult digestion
power
Subje
bitter taste,
ctive mucoid salivation, insomnia, wakeful
excessive thirst, burning Lack of desire for fluids
sensat sleepiness ness
atcardia
ions
Physic diarrhea, swollen

rough skin,
al high pulse rate, lassitude flaccid joints eyelids, rough ski
acquired habit
signs n, acquired habit
Foods
dry regimen
& calefacients harmful, infrig infrigidants harmful, calef moist articles
harmful, humectan
medici idantsbeneficial acientsbeneficial harmful
tsbeneficial
nes
Relati
on to
worse in summer worse in winter bad in autumn
weath
er
The Eight Varieties of Equipoise
Canon describes humans as having eight different "varieties of equipoise", or differing temperaments. [27] The
temperaments fall under two categories; In relation to beings other than men and in relation to the individual himself.
A. In relation to beings other than men
i. "the equability of the temperament seen in man as compared with other creatures"
ii. the temperament of other human beings
Avicenna describes a hot versus cold / moist versus dry equilibrium between the members of the human
body. The heart, for example, is hot and must be in equilibrium of other cold parts of the body such as the
brain. When this equilibrium between these members are achieved, the person is considered to be in "ideal
equability." [28]
iii. external factors "such as race, climate, atmosphere"

This third gauge for temperament assumes that each race has their own equilibrium. As an example he
says, "The Hindus, in health, have a different equability to the Slaves, and so on." Avicenna explains that the
differing climates contribute to differing temperaments among the races. [29]
iv. in relation to extreme climates
B. In relation to the individual himself
v. "as compared to another person"

Although Avicenna had listed the fifth mode "as compared to another person", he seems to contradict that
statement by explaining that every individual has a temperament that is unique to themselves and unlike
anyone else.[30]
vi. comparison of the individual himself

vii. comparing one member of the body with another member of the body
The Canon here makes the distinction of the members into categories of their individual "moistness",
"dryness", "hotness", and "coldness".
viii. comparison of a member to itself
The Canon continues to explain the sun's position in relation to ideal temperament and the role
that climate and human skin play. Organs are nowhere near ideal in temperament, but skin comes
the closest. Avicenna says that the hand, especially the palm and the tip of the index finger, is the
most sensitive of all and attuned to tactile contact. Medicine is described as "hot" or "cold", not
based upon its actual temperature but with regard to how it relates to the temperament of the
human body.[31]
The Canon then describes when temperaments are unequal, in other words,
illness. Avicenna separates these into two categories, which are fairly self explainable within the
context of what Ibn Sina has already defined as the temperaments.
A. Simple "intemperaments"
i. Hot temperament (hotter than normal) ii. Cold temperament (colder than normal) iii. Dry
[32]
temperament (drier than usual) iv. Moist temperament (more moist than usual)
B. Compound "intemperaments"
The compound intemperaments are where two things are wrong with the temperament, i.e. hotter
and moister; hotter and drier; colder and moister; colder and drier. There are only four because
something cannot be simultaneously hotter and colder or drier and moister. The four simple
temperaments and four compound intemperaments can each be divided into "Those apart from
any material substance" and "Those in which some material substance is concerned", for a total of
sixteen intemperaments. Examples of the sixteen intemperaments are provided in the
"third and fourth volumes."[33]
II The Temperament of the Several Members
Each member of the body is described to be given each its individual temperament, each with its
own degree of heat and moisture. Avicenna lists members of the body in "order of degree of
Heat", from hottest to coldest.[34]
1. the breath and "the heart in which it arises"
2. the blood; which is said to be generated from the liver
3. the liver; "which may be looked upon as concentrated blood."
4. the flesh
5. the muscles
6. the spleen
7. the kidneys
8. the arteries
9. the veins
10. the skin of the palms and soles
Then a list is given of coldest members to hottest.[34]
1. serious humour
2. the hairs
3. the bones
4. the cartilage
5. the ligaments
6. the tendon
7. the membranes
8. the nerves
9. the spinal cord
10. the brain
11. the fat
12. the oil of the body
13. the skin
Then a list is given in order of moisture. Avicenna credits Galen with this particular list.[35]
1. serious humour
2. the serious humour
3. the blood
4. the oil
5. the fat
6. the brain
7. the spinal cord
8. the breasts and the testicles
9. the lung
10. the liver
11. the spleen
12. the kidneys
13. the muscles
14. the skin
Finally, a list is given in order of dryness[36]
1. the hair
2. the bone
3. cartilage
4. ligaments
5. tendons
6. sereous membranes
7. arteries
8. veins
9. motor nerves
10. heart
11. sensory nerves
12. skin
III The Temperaments Belonging to Age
The Canon divides life into four "periods" and then subdivides the first period into five separate
categories.
The following table is provided for the four periods of life: [37]
Period Title Name Year of Age
I The Period of Growth Adolescence Up to 30
II The Prime of Life Period of beauty Up to 35 or 40
III Elderly life Period of decline. Senescence. Up to about 60
IV Decrepit Age Senility To the end of life
Avicenna says that the third period shows signs of decline in vigor and some decline in intellectual
power. In the fourth period, both vigor and intelligence decline.
Avicenna divides the beginning stage of life in the following table, according to Oskar Cameron
Gruner's edition of the Canon of Medicine:[38]
Sub-
Name Distinctive Characters
division
First Infancy The period before the limbs are fitted for walking
The period of formation of the teeth. Walking has been

Second Babyhood
learnt, but is not steady. The gums are not full of teeth.
The body shows strength of movement. The teeth are

Third Childhood
fully out. Pollutions have not yet appeared
Juvenility. The period up to the development of hair on the face
Fourth
"Puberty" and pubes. Pollutions begin.
The period up to the limit of growth of the body (to the

Fifth Youth
beginning of adult life). Period of athletic power.
Avicenna generalizes youth as having a "hot" temperament, but comments that there is
controversy over which periods of youth are hotter. The general notion that youth are "hot" in
temperament is due to youth's supposed relationship to members of the body that are hot. For
example, blood was considered "hot" as was mentioned earlier, therefore youth is assumed to be
hot partially due to blood being more "plentiful" and "thicker", according to Avicenna. Evidence for
youth having an excess of blood is suggested by Avicenna's observation that nose bleeds are
more frequent within youth. Other contributing factors are the youth's association with sperm and
the consistency of their bile. Further description of youth in regards to heat and moisture is given
with respect to sex, geographical location, and occupation. The Canon says, for example, that
females are colder and more moist.[39]
The Humours
The Canon of Medicine is based upon the Four Humours of Hippocratic medicine, but refined in
various ways. In disease pathogenesis, for example, Avicenna "added his own view of different
types of spirits (or vital life essences) and souls, whose disturbances might lead to bodily diseases
because of a close association between them and such master organs as the brain and
heart".[40] An element of such belief is apparent in the chapter of al-Lawa", which relates "the
manifestations to an interruption of vital life essence to the brain." He combined his own view with
that of the Four Humours to establish a new doctrine to explain the mechanisms of various
diseases in another work he wrote, Treatise on Pulse
“From mixture of the four [humors] in different weights, [God the most high] created different
organs; one with more blood like muscle, one with more black bile like bone, one with more
phlegm like brain, and one with more yellow bile like lung.
[God the most high] created the souls from the softness of humors; each soul has it own weight
and amalgamation. The generation and nourishment of proper soul takes place in the heart; it
resides in the heart and arteries, and is transmitted from the heart to the organs through the
arteries. At first, it [proper soul] enters the master organs such as the brain, liver or reproductive
organs; from there it goes to other organs while the nature of the soul is being modified in each [of
them]. As long as [the soul] is in the heart, it is quite warm, with the nature of fire, and the softness
of bile is dominant. Then, that part which goes to the brain to keep it vital and functioning,
becomes colder and wetter, and in its composition the serous softness and phlegm vapor
dominate. That part, which enters the liver to keep its vitality and functions, becomes softer,
warmer and sensibly wet, and in its composition the softness of air and vapor of blood dominate.
In general, there are four types of proper spirit: One is brutal spirit residing in the heart and it is the
origin of all spirits. Another – as physicians refer to it – is sensual spirit residing in the brain. The
third – as physicians refer to it – is natural spirit residing in the liver. The fourth is generative – i.e.
procreative – spirits residing in the gonads. These four spirits go-between the soul of absolute
purity and the body of absolute impurity.”
What a Body Fluid is and How Many Kinds There Are
The Canon defines a humour as "that fluid, moist 'body' into which our aliment is
transformed",[41][42] and lists the four primary types of fluids as sanguineous, serous, bilious, and
atribilious. The secondary fluids are separated into "non-excrementitious" and "excrementitious".
The Four Body Fluids or Humours Proper

The sanguineous humour
Avicenna calls this humour "the most excellent of all"[43] the humours. This section describes blood
and compares its healthy states with its unhealthy states. Avicenna describes healthy blood as
"red in colour, has no unpleasant odour, and has a very sweet taste." Abnormality of the blood
stems from a change in temperament or an unhealthy humour has polluted it. [44]
The serous humour
The serous humour is described as a sweet fluid that is cold and moist in relation to blood and
bilious humours. Serous humour resembles blood and is necessary for body tissues for two
reasons: to provide the tissue with nutrients as an auxiliary and to keep the bones and tissues
moist.[45]
The bilious humour

The atribilious humour
Anatomy or "The Members"
In his thesis on "The Members", Avicenna explains that the humours help to make up the
members of the body, gives a general description and how to repair them.
Some are "simple members" or "elementary tissue" such as bone, cartilage and tendons. Some
are "compound members" such as the heart, the liver, and the brain. He also categorizes these
into vital organs and auxiliary organs.[46]
Avicenna continues to classify the organs by different systems. "According to actions" organizes
members by what they do. "According to their origin" classifies members by assuming that each
member originates from the blood or from male or "female sperm". [47]
General Physiology
In the thesis on General Physiology or "The Faculties of the Body", Avicenna separates life into
three different categories: Vegetable, Animal, and Human. He contrasts Galen's view that the
brain is the "chief seat of sentient life" with Aristotle's view that the heart is the source of all the
body's faculties, saying that if physicians considered the matter carefully they would agree with
Aristotle that the heart was the ultimate source of all the faculties, even if (for example) the brain is
where the rational faculty manifests itself.[48]I
Book 1 Part 2
Writings on anatomy in the Canon are scattered throughout the text in sections regarding to
illnesses related to certain body parts. The Canon included numerous discussions on anatomy
and diagrams on certain body parts, including diagrams of the cranial sutures.[49]
Dissection
The Canon was one of the Muslim medical encyclopedias of the period which distinguished anatomy "from
other aspects of medicine by its need for a different methodology".[50]
"As for the parts of the body and their functions, it is necessary that they be approached
through observation (hiss) and dissection (tashrih), while those things that must be conjectured and
demonstrated by reason are diseases and their particular causes and their symptoms and how disease can be
abated and health maintained."
Simple and compound drugs

Book 2 (the Materia Medica) of the Canon lists about 800 "simple" substances alphabetically that
were used by doctors of the time. The substances are simple in the sense of not compounded
with other substances. Plants, animal substances and minerals are included. Book 5 (the
Formulary) lists 650 compound drugs,[2] attributing them to various Arabic, Indian and Greek
sources. Avicenna added his own comments, highlighting differences between recipes from
different sources, and sometimes giving his own recipe. He also gave his opinion of the
effectiveness (or ineffectiveness) of some remedies, and gave details of where particular
ingredients came from and how they were prepared. He favoured proven remedies which had
been tested through experience, cautioning that compounds could have unexpected or much
stronger effects than might be expected from the effects of the individual components. [15]
The Canon contained seven rules for experimenting with new drugs, taken partly from Galen.[51]
1. "The drug must be free from any acquired quality"; for example from being exposed to
heat or cold or stored in close proximity to other substances.
2. "The experiment must done on a single, not a composite condition"; in other words it
should not be tested on a patient who has complex or multiple illnesses.
3. "The drug must be tested on two contrary conditions"; a drug may act directly on a
disease but also it may be effective against a different disease by relieving its
symptoms.
4. "The quality of the drug must correspond to the strength of the disease...it is best to
experiment first using the weakest [dosage] and then increase it gradually until you know
the potency of the drug, leaving no room for doubt."
5. "One should consider the time needed for the drug to take effect. If the drug has an
immediate effect, this shows that it has acted against the disease itself."
6. "The effect of the drug should be the same in all cases or, at least, in most. If that is not
the case, the effect is then accidental, because things that occur naturally are always or
mostly consistent."
7. "Experiments should be carried out on the human body...the quality of the medicine
might mean that it would affect the human body differently from the animal body..."[52]
Book 3 Special Pathology

Book 3 is arranged from head to toe covering the function and diseases of each organ.
Book 4 Special Diseases Involving More Than

One Member
Book 4 covers diseases that affect the whole body like fevers.
Book 5 Formulary
Book 5 covers compound drugs.[53]
Notes and references

1. Finger, Stanley (1994). Origins of Neuroscience: A History of Explorations Into Brain
Function. Oxford University Press. p. 70. ISBN 0-19-514694-8
2. "Enyclopedia Iranica; Avicenna: Medicine and Biology". Retrieved 20 December 2013.
3. McGinnis, Jon (2010). Avicenna. Oxford: Oxford University Press. p. 228. ISBN 978-0-
19-533147-9.
4. Fu Wei-kang (ed.) Zhongguo Yixue Shi (History of Chinese Medicine) Publishing House
of Shanghai College of Chinese Medicine 1989
5. Hakim Syed Zillur Rahman (1986). Qanoon lbn Sina Aur Uskey Shareheen wa
Mutarjemeen. Publication Division, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh.
6. Hakim Syed Zillur Rahman (2004). Qanun Ibn Sina and its Translation and
Commentators (Persian Translation; 203pp). Society for the Appreciation of Cultural
Works and Dignitaries, Tehran, Iran.
7. ""The Canon of Medicine" (work by Avicenna)". Encyclopædia Britannica. 2008.
Retrieved 11 June 2008.
8. The Canon of Medicine (work by Avicenna), Encyclopædia Britannica
9. McGinnis, Jon (2010). Avicenna. Oxford: Oxford University Press. p. 227. ISBN 978-0-
19-533147-9.
10. Ostler, Nicholas (2009). Ad Infinitum. Harper Press. p. 211. ISBN 978-0007343065.
11. "Enyclopedia Iranica; The influence of Avicenna on medical studies in the West".
Retrieved 19 December 2013.
12. Osler, William (2004). The Evolution Of Modern Medicine. Kessinger Publishing.
p. 71.ISBN 1-4191-6153-9
13. Howell, Trevor H. (1987). "Avicenna and His Regimen of Old Age". Age and
Ageing 16(1): 58–59. doi:10.1093/ageing/16.1.58. PMID 3551552
14. The Canon of Medicine, The American Institute of Unani Medicine, 2003.
15. Jacquart, Danielle (2008). "Islamic Pharmacology in the Middle Ages: Theories and
Substances". European Review 16 (2): 219–227 [219 & 222–
5.doi:10.1017/S1062798708000215
16. "Exhibitions: Spirit and Life - Aga Khan Museum". Retrieved 16 August 2012.
17. Avicenna, Ibn Sina; Laleh Bakhtiar (1025). Canon of Medicine (2nd ed.). New York, NY:
AMS Press, Inc. pp. 25–579. ISBN 0-404-11231-5.
AMS Press, Inc. p. 39. ISBN 0-404-11231-5.
26. Lutz, Peter L. (2002). The Rise of Experimental Biology: An Illustrated History. Humana
Press. p. 60. ISBN 0-89603-835-1
40. Mohammadali M. Shojaa, R. Shane Tubbsb, Marios Loukasc, Majid Khalilid, Farid
Alakbarlie, Aaron A. Cohen-Gadola; Tubbs, RS; Loukas, M; Khalili, M; Alakbarli, F;
Cohen-Gadol, AA (29 May 2009). "Vasovagal syncope in the Canon of Avicenna: The
first mention of carotid artery hypersensitivity". International Journal of
Cardiology (Elsevier) 134 (3): 297–
301. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2009.02.035. PMID 19332359
41. "Aliment: something that nourishes; food". Aliment
46. Canon of Medicine. 1025. pp. 93–106.
47. Canon of Medicine. 1025. p. 99.
48. Canon of Medicine. 1025. pp. 110–111.
49. The Canon on Medicine, United States National Library of Medicine.
50. Savage-Smith, Emilie (1995). "Attitudes Toward Dissection in Medieval Islam". Journal
of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences (Oxford University Press) 50 (1): 67–110
[92–3]. doi:10.1093/jhmas/50.1.67. PMID 7876530
51. Crombie, Alistair Cameron (1971). Robert Grosseteste and the origins of experimental
science, 1100-1700. Clarendon Press. p. 79. Retrieved 6 September 2012.
52. Mona Nasser Aida Tibi, Emilie Savage-Smith; Tibi, A; Savage-Smith, E (2009), "Ibn
Sina's Canon of Medicine: 11th century rules for assessing the effects of drugs", Journal
of the Royal Society of Medicine 102 (2): 78–
80, doi:10.1258/jrsm.2008.08k040,PMID 19208873
HISTORICAL IMAGES: IBN SINA AND HIS CANON OF MEDICINE
December 16, 2012
“THE ENDURING RESPECT IN THE 21ST CENTURY FOR A BOOK WRITTEN A MILLENIUM EARLIER IS A
TESTIMONY TO IBN SINA’S ACHIEVEMENT” – Mona N. Tibi and Emilie Savage-Smith
Compiled by Malik Merchant

Editor, Simergphotos.com & Simerg.com
INTRODUCTION: On Sunday November 25, 2012, Simergphotos began a weekly/bi-weekly series of historical
illustrations that underline an artistic, ethical, moral, religious or scientific theme. This third piece in the
series is based on Wellcome Library’s Arabic manuscript collection, and includes the well-known medical
encyclopedia, the Canon of Medicine, by the famous Ismaili practitioner Ibn Sina, also known as Avicenna.
Portrait of Avicenna, Medicin, Chap. 134. Engraving, early 17th cent.(?). Many physicians in the Islamic world
were outstanding medical teachers and practitioners. Avicenna (980-1037 CE) was born near Bokhara in
Central Asia. Known as the ‘Prince of Physicians’, his Canon of Medicine (medical encyclopedia) remained
the standard text in both the East and West until the 16th century and still forms the basis of Unani theory
and practice today. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images. Copyright.
Abu Ali al-Husayn Ibn Abdullah Ibn Sina was born in Bukhara in 980. Sometimes known in the West by the
Latin name, Avicenna, this Persian physician became the most famous and influential of all the Islamic
philosopher-scientists. He earned royal favour for treating the Kings of Bukhara and Hamadan for ailments
other physicians could neither diagnose nor cure. His grave is still maintained in Hamadan, where he died in
1037. Though trained as a physician, Ibn Sina made important contributions to philosophy, mathematics,
chemistry, and astronomy.
My father was one of those who had responded to the invitation of the Egyptians and was counted among
the Isma’ilis. He had accepted their opinions on the soul and on the intellect. My brother likewise. They often
discussed these matters.
I listened to them, I grasped what they were saying, and they tried to attract me to their rite…..Avicenna,
excerpt from UNESCO Courier, Special Avicenna Issue, October 1980.
To mark the 1,000th birth anniversary of the most influential of Islam’s philosopher-scientists, UNESCO
minted this commemorative medal in 1980. Abu Ali al-Husain Ibn Abdallah Ibn Sina was known in Europe as
Avicenna. A healer and a humanist, Avicenna developed an exemplary holistic approach that captures the
essence of ethics in science and has thus come to serve as a source of inspiration for the promotion of this
concern, which is of central importance to UNESCO. Designed by sculptor-medallist Victor Douek, the
obverse depicts a scene showing Avicenna surrounded by his disciples, inspired by a miniature in a 17th-
century Turkish manuscript.
Ibn Sina’s most enduring legacy was in the field of medicine. His most famous book, Qanun fi’l-tibb (“The
Canon of Medicine”) is still one of the most important medical books ever written, and served as the medical
authority throughout Europe for 600 years. Among the Canon’s contributions to modern medicine was the
recognition that tuberculosis is contagious; diseases can spread through water and soil; and a person’s
emotional health influences his or her physical health. Ibn Sina was also the first physician to describe
meningitis, parts of the eye, and the heart valves, and he found that nerves were responsible for perceived
muscle pain. He also contributed to advancements in anatomy, gynecology, and pediatrics…..Excerpt
from The Islamic World to 1600, The University of Calgary, 1998, The Applied History Research Group.
AVICENNA’S LEGEND ABOUT THE LOVESICK PRINCE
A physician talking to a patient in a garden. A lacquered binding board cover of the Canon of Medicine, 1632.
Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images. Copyright.
The lacquer miniature on the cover of Avicenna’s ‘Canon’ depicts a youth and a physician who takes his
pulse, while beside sits a young girl and two other physicians preparing medicine. It has been thought that
this is an illustration of a legend about Avicenna (died 1037) and a certain young prince of Gurgan (by the
Caspian Sea) who became sick of a malady which nobody could treat. Avicenna was invited to give his
opinion. By keeping his finger on the youth’s pulse, he requested that someone who knew all the towns of
the province should repeat their names. At the mention of a certain town, he felt a flutter in the pulse.
“Now”, he said, “Let someone mention all the houses, streets, and quarters of the town”. Again, a certain
street was mentioned and the same phenomenon was repeated; and a third time, when the names of the
inhabitants of a certain household were enumerated, it came out that the youth was in love with a girl. The
therapy suggested by Avicenna was to allow the couple to get married….Excerpt from the Wellcome Library.
Text and Painting, 1632, from Canon of Medicine, Qanun fi’l-tibb, by Ibn Sina, Published: Isfahan folio 2 recto
Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images, London. Copyright.
One of the most famous exponents of Muslim universalism and an eminent figure in Islamic learning was Ibn
Sina, known in the West as Avicenna (981-1037). For a thousand years he has retained his original renown as
one of the greatest thinkers and medical scholars in history. His most important medical works are the
Qanun (Canon) and a treatise on Cardiac drugs. The ‘Qanun’ is an immense encyclopedia of medicine. It
contains some of the most illuminating thoughts pertaining to distinction of mediastinitis from pleurisy;
contagious nature of phthisis; distribution of diseases by water and soil; careful description of skin troubles;
of sexual diseases and perversions; of nervous ailments….George Sarton, Introduction to the History of
Science
The Canon of Mediicin is divided into five books. This opening shows the start of the third book depicting
diseases of the brain. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images, London. Copyright.
LATIN VERSION OF THE CANON AND TRIBUTES TO AVICENNA
The Canon was translated into Latin in the 12th century by Gerard of Cremona. Its encyclopaedic content, its
systematic arrangement and philosophical plan soon worked its way into a position of pre-eminence in the
medical literature of Europe, displacing the works of Galen and becoming the text book for medical
education in the schools of Europe. The text was read in the medical schools at Montpellier and Leuven as
late as 1650, and Arnold C. Klebs described it as “one of the most significant intellectual phenomena of all
times.” No other medical book has remained so highly acclaimed for such a long period of time. When the
Arabic original was published in Rome in 1593, it became one of the first Arabic books to be produced on the
new invention of the printing press.
A Latin copy of The Canon of Medicine, dated 1484, located at the P.I. Nixon Medical Historical Library of The
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, USA. Credit: Wikipedia.
The influential Canadian physician, Sir William Osler, described the Canon as “the most famous medical
textbook ever written” noting that it remained “a medical bible for a longer time than any other work.”
In 2006, Professor John Urquhart noted the relevance of the Canon to modern medicine, comparing it to an
influential medical work of the 19th century, The Principles and Practice of Medicine (1892) by Osler himself,
and concluded:
If the year were 1900 and you were marooned and in need of a guide for practical medicine, which book
would you want by your side?” My choice was Ibn Sina. A leading reason is that Ibn Sina gives an integrated
view of surgery and medicine, whereas Osler largely shuns intervention. Ibn Sina, for example, tells how to
judge the margin of healthy tissue to take with an amputation, a basic topic uncovered by Osler. The gap
between medicine and surgery is now closing, with the advent of interventional cardiology,
gastroenterology, radiology, etc. Ibn Sina correctly saw medicine and surgery as one.
Detail of a Woodcut depicting ancient herbalists and scholars of medicinal lore “Herophilus and
Erasistratus” from Iconographic, Ancient herbalists and scholars of medicinal lore (Galen, Pliny, Hippocrates
etc.); and Venus and Adonis in the gardens of Adonis by Lorenz Fries Published: Balthazar BeekStrasburg
1532. Avicenna and Rhazes are shown on the 4th row, last column. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome
Images, London. Copyright.
Illustrations showing cupping, dislocation and massage from Liber canonis, de medicinis cordialibus, et
cantica by Avicenna Published: J. Hervagius Basle 1556, pages 893-94. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome
Images, London. Copyright.
ANATOMY
No anatomical illustrations of the entire human body are preserved from the Islamic world before those in the
Persian treatise composed by Mansur ibn Muhammad ibn Ahmad ibn Yusuf ibn Ilyas in the end of the 14th
century. His illustrated work, ‘Tashrihi badani insan’, or ‘Anatomy of the Human body’, is often called
‘Mansur’s Anatomy’ (Tashrihi Mansuri). Normally, there were five diagrams illustrating each bodily ‘system’
(bones, nerves, muscles, veins, and arteries). It should be noted that many such diagrams have two
simultaneous projections: the body is depicted in the frontal view while the head is reversed, as seen from
behind.
These illustrations became very popular in various Arabic or Persian medical treatises, and were often
included in works to which they originally did not belong. That is the case of this Arabic manuscript: here,
the text of Avicenna’s ‘Canon’ is illustrated by the diagrams that originate from the ‘Tashrihi
Mansuri’….Excerpts from the Wellcome Library.
An illustration of arteries and viscera based on ‘Mansur’s Anatomy’ in the ‘Canon’ of Avicenna,Qanun fi’l-
tibb, by Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Published: Isfahan, Folio 123 verso. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images,
London. Copyright.
An illustration of the skeleton system based on ‘Mansur’s Anatomy’ in the ‘Canon’ of Avicenna, Qanun fi’l-
tibb, by Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Published: Isfahan Folio 126 recto. Credit: Wellcome Library/Wellcome Images,
London. Copyright.
An illustration of the nervous system based on ‘Mansur’s Anatomy’ in the ‘Canon’ of Avicenna, Qanun fi’l-
London. Copyright.
An illustration of the muscular system based on ‘Mansur’s Anatomy’ in the ‘Canon’ of Avicenna, Qanun fi’l-
London. Copyright.
AVICENNA — CLAIMED BY EVERYONE, INCLUDING THE ISMAILIS, AS ONE OF THEIR
OWN
The Aga Khan Museum collection includes probably the earliest extant manuscript of volume 5 of the Canon
of Medicine of Ibn Sina (Avicenna) dated 1052 CE. Its origins date to the early 11th century Iran, but it
eventually was used all over the Middle East and Europe as the standard medical text for 500 years. The
Canon formed the basis of medical teaching at European universities until the beginning of modern
times.Credit: Aga Khan Museum Collection.
Just as Arabs, Turks and Persians all like to claim Avicenna as their own, the Ismailis like to consider him to
be a part of their own tradition.
Mumtaz Ali Tajddin Sadik Ali, a prolific Ismaili author based in Pakistan, mentions that during the 1983
commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of the current Ismaili Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, a gift of a Chair
at the Aga Khan University was offered by the President of the Aga Khan National Council for Pakistan, Vazir
Ashiqali, on behalf of the Ismailis of Pakistan. His Highness the Aga Khan graciously accepted the gift on
behalf of the Aga Khan University and said that the Chair should be named after one of Islam’s great
philosophers or scientists, so that his memory may be kept alive in an academic institution of higher
learning today. In 1985, His Highness further recommended to the Board of Trustees that the name “be of a
great man in our history, in our tariqah.” In November 1988, the Ismaili Imam named the Chair of
Professorship of Medicine after Abu Ali Ibn Sina.
The Ismailis therefore have a good reason for treating Avicenna as one of their own. Please also see A Brief
Discussion on Avicenna’s Madhab. Date posted: Sunday, December 16, 2012.
With the exception of three images from UNESCO, Wikipedia and the Aga Khan Museum Collection, all the
remaining images in the above piece on Avicenna are from the website of The Wellcome Trust, a UK based
charity funding institution for research to improve human and animal health by supporting the brightest
minds in biomedical research and the medical humanities. In addition to funding biomedical research, it
supports the public understanding of science. In the field of medical research, it is the world’s second
largest private funder after Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Please visit their website by
clicking http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/.
Ibn Sīnā(c.1012 CE;c.402 AH).Kitab al-Qanun fi al-tibb[Avicenna’sThe Canon of Medicine

Title Page(s)
Top 10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Apples
Although the apple is a temperate fruit that does not grow so well in tropical climates, it is still a popular fruit
everywhere, even in tropical parts of the world – and for good reason. Not only is this fruit visually appealing and very
palatable, it also has a reputation for being very healthy. (An apple a day keeps the doctor away, right?)
It’s not all media hype, this healthiness of the apple. There is a wealth of scientific evidence that proves this well-
loved fruit deserves much of its good reputation. Here are ten of the ways that apples can keep doctors away:
1. Cancer Prevention – Apples, apple juice, and apple extracts have all been shown to prevent colon, breast, and
skin cancer in animal subjects. Epidemiological observations also support the effectiveness of apples in preventing
lung and colon cancer in human populations. [1]
2. Antioxidant Activity – The phytochemical content of apples has demonstrated free radical scavenging activities
that reduce DNA damage caused by oxidation. It may be interesting to note that according to studies, the most
antioxidant-rich part of the apple is its peel, not its pulp. [1], [2]
3. Antihyperglycemic – With the wealth of available scientific evidence supporting the antihyperglycemic effect of
the apple, the question of researchers is no longer whether this fruit can really control hyperglycemia but more on
which particular phenolic of the fruit confers this effect, and which apple variety provides the largest amount of
benefits. [2]
4. Anti-diabetes – Related to the apple’s antihyperglycemic effect is its potential as an anti-diabetes agent. A study
has shown that apple consumption is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. And again, researchers credit
much of the apple’s anti-diabetic health benefits on its peel, which has a higher level of quercertin than the pulp of the
fruit. [3]
5. Cardiovascular Protection – It has long been concluded that the more dietary fiber there is in one’s diet, the
lower one’s risk for coronary heart disease becomes. [4] A hundred grams of raw apple with its skin on contains 10%
of the average person’s daily fiber requirements. [5] This makes this fruit a very heart-friendly addition to one’s
everyday diet.
6. Cholesterol Reduction – One of the reasons why apples are so effective at lowering the risk of heart disease is
that they have a reducing effect on bad cholesterol. In a 2001 study, researchers observed that when animal subjects
were given apples, their levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood decreased, their good cholesterol (HDL) levels
increased, and there was more cholesterol in their feces, which suggests that less cholesterol was absorbed by the
body. [3]
7. Anti-asthma – Researchers have found a specific link between apple consumption and a reduced risk for asthma.
This same link has not been found in the general consumption of other fruits and vegetables such as grapefruit,
onions, and white cabbage. Apple’s anti-asthma effect is especially prominent when the fruit is consumed at least
twice a week. [3]
8. Weight Reduction – In a study done on overweight middle-aged women, where the subjects were divided into
three groups – the members of the first group were given an apple; the second group, a pear; and the third group, an
oatmeal cookie to eat thrice a day for three months – researchers observed that at the end of the period, both the
apple and pear groups lost an average of 1.21 kg, while those who had oat cookies did not have any significant
changes in weight. [3]
9. Anti-cholera – Researchers have found that immature apples contain polyphenols that inhibit the adverse effects
of cholera on the body, making the fruit a possible therapeutic agent for treating cholera victims. [6]
10. Anti-COPD Symptoms – During a three-year study, researchers examined the effects of flavonoid intake on
victims of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The main dietary sources of the flavonoids were either tea
or apples. The findings showed that while tea drinking did not produce a significant effect on the subjects, apple
consumption resulted in less coughing and breathlessness, leading to the conclusion that a high intake of apples is
beneficial for relieving the symptoms of COPD. [7]
It merits repeating that the majority of the apple’s health benefits lie in the compounds found most abundantly
in the apple’s skin. Unfortunately, the skin of the apple can be tainted with pesticides used in commercial fruit
production. To be able to maximize one’s benefit from this fruit, it is a good idea to choose (and wash) organic
produce, in which the skin of the apple can be safely consumed.
Apple Juice Recipe by: http://www.rawfoods-livingfoods.com/apple-juice-recipes.html
References:
[1] https://www.dkfz-heidelberg.de/en/tox/download/gerh/pdf-files/Gerhauser_-_Planta_Medica_2008.pdf
[2] http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2009.0273
[3] http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1475-2891-3-5.pdf
[4] http://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=215976
[5] http://www.nutritionvalue.org/Apples%2C_with_skin%2C_raw_nutritional_value.html
[6] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1348-0421.2002.tb02693.x/full
[7] http://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/ajrccm.164.1.2010025#.VAGBIqOTJUY
Top 10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts, also called cobnuts or filberts, have been harvested by humans for many thousands of years, providing a
bounty of nutrition that stores well through lean winter months and making a helpful contribution to general health.
Hazel trees are suited to growing in temperate climates and are native to southern Europe and Asia. Timber from the
trees is extremely useful due to its strength and flexibility. [1]
An ancient Celtic story tells of the “salmon of wisdom” that gains its wisdom by eating hazelnuts. It is, perhaps, a tale
to encourage children of those days to keep up their intake of this healthy food. It is interesting to note that Hazel has
been called the “tree of knowledge” in Ireland [2] – and these ancient legends often hint at the herbal benefits of the
plant or food in question.
Science is beginning to unravel the complex picture of nutrients that promote good health, and it’s now clear that
hazelnuts are rich in some of the most important ones. Turkey is the country that leads world hazelnut growing, with
around 75% of the total production. [1]
You may already know that hazelnuts are good for health, but it has now been discovered that some of the most
important health-giving properties (from phenolic compounds) are to be found in the skins, especially when eaten raw
rather than roasted. Blanching or bleaching these nuts causes a great loss of beneficial phenolic compounds. The
skins have a slightly bitter taste but this could also be beneficial, as the bitter taste itself directly stimulates the
digestive system. [3][4]
Here are ten of the leading health benefits of hazelnuts:
1. Cardiovascular Health Testing of patients with high cholesterol levels after a period of daily hazelnut consumption
has been shown to reduce the indicators of cardiovascular health risk. [5][6][7]
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis The significant levels of plant-based antioxidants and phytochemicals found in hazelnuts
are generally accepted as having a positive effect on symptoms of this disease. [8]
3. Slows Alzheimer’s Disease In mild to moderate cases of Alzheimer’s, it has been shown that high levels of
vitamin E and B1 (thiamin) intake can slow the progression of symptoms. Both of these vitamins are found in large
amounts in hazelnuts – 1 cup (135g) contains 100% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin E and 58% of
thiamin. [9][10] Perhaps there is some truth in the ancient story that wisdom can be gained by eating these nuts!
4. Cancer Protective Dietary nutraceuticals are growing in stature as evidence grows for their role in the prevention
and treatment of cancer. The healthy fats and strong antioxidants that are often linked by scientists to this protective
effect against cancer in humans are found in good amounts in hazelnuts, which have benefits relating particularly to
colon cancer. [11]
5. Female Diabetes Thiamin deficiency is strongly linked with cases of diabetes mellitus. Hazelnuts can help to
supply the recommended intake as a natural dietary source of this valuable vitamin. Note: Tests show much greater
improvements for women with diabetes than for men. [7][12]
6. Gallstone Reduction Regular nut consumption has been linked to a reduction in the incidence of gallstone
disease in men. [13]
7. Weight Loss Although nuts have a high fat content, it has been shown that eating them does not contribute to
weight gain; in fact, the opposite is often true. [7]
8. Low Sodium Content Hazelnuts contain negligible amounts of sodium, making them perfect for anyone on a low
sodium diet. [7]
9. Metabolism Balancing The combination of nutrients and minerals in hazelnuts, as well as the presence of folic
acid, help to balance the metabolism, especially by lowering homocysteine levels that can cause degenerative
disease.
10. Skin Health (High in Vitamin E) The high level of vitamin E in hazelnuts makes them excellent for protecting the
skin from ultraviolet rays and its effects, which include skin cancer and wrinkling. [14]
References:
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazelnut
[2] http://www.celtnet.org.uk/miscellaneous/eog.html
[3] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22224708
[4] http://www.zooscape.com/cgi-bin/newsresearcharticle/gentian-a-bitter-pill-to-swal/low-
trait108895/jornada37998596
[7] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257681
[9] http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3116/2
[10] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3085841
[12] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3376872/
[14] http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0891584902008316
Top 30 Vitamin E Rich Foods
What Is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E collectively refers to a group of fat-soluble compounds that include eight naturally existing chemical forms,
namely, alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, delta-tocopherol, alpha-tocotrienol, beta-tocotrienol,
gamma-tocotrienol, and delta-tocotrienol. [1] In other words, vitamin E comprises four tocopherols and four
tocotrienols.
Our liver regulates the level of vitamin E present in our body systems and functions in the metabolism and excretion
of vitamin E. It should be noted that although there are eight vitamin E forms, only alphatocopherol is recognized by
the alpha tocopherol transfer protein (alpha-TTP) and is transferred to the plasma. [2]
Since its discovery by Evans and Bishop in 1922, [3] vitamin E has afforded itself some recognition as a distinct group
of vitamins with functions in health and disease that are evidently distinct from other vitamins. In particular, majority of
people often associate vitamin E with its effective and potent antioxidant properties and cell signaling aspects –
something that vitamin E is best known for. Vitamin E operates in cell membranes where it puts off the propagation of
free radical reactions. [4] Free radicals are molecules with unshared electron. They are of note because they can
damage cells and can cause the development of some nasty diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Being an antioxidant, vitamin E aids the body in combating the damage related to oxidative stress. [5]
But not all of vitamin Eís benefits can be assigned to this antioxidative action alone. In fact, vitamin E also possesses
other non-antioxidant properties that are as vital as its antioxidant activities as well. For example, alpha-tocopherol
appears to suppress cell proliferation, platelet aggregation, and monocyte adhesion; to inhibit protein kinase C, 5-
lipoxygenase, and phospholipase A2; and to activate protein phosphatase 2A and diacylglycerol kinase. [6] Benefits to
human health have also been similarly identified for gamma-tocopherol. Gamma-tocopherol has been found to inhibit
cyclooxygenase activity (and thus to possess anti-inflammatory properties) and to reduce cardiovascular disease and
prostate cancer risks. [7] On the other end of the spectrum are tocotrienols, which are reported to possess strong
neuroprotective, anti-cancer, and cholesterol-lowering actions. [1] Tocotrienols have functions as diverse and
important as thwarting oxidative stress induced by UV or ozone, inhibiting LDL oxidation, and downregulating 3-
hydroxyl-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase (a rate-controlling enzyme of the mevalonate
pathway). [8] These activities enable tocotrienol to provide favorable effects
to cardiovascular disease patients.
There is a long battery of reasons why we need to ensure vitamin E is present in our diet. As mentioned earlier, it is
an antioxidant and keeps some diseases at bay. Because of its protective activity in cell components against the
deleterious actions of free radicals and oxidative stress, vitamin might contribute to the prevention of cancer, age-
related macular degeneration and cataracts, and cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. [9]Vitamin E
keeps our general cardiovascular health in good condition: it deters the formation of blood clots that might result
eventually in a heart attack or venous thromboembolism [10] and inhibits the oxidation of LDL. [8]
The recommendations from the Food and Nutrition Board are limited to alpha-tocopherol alone, the only form of
vitamin E maintained in the plasma, whereas the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin E is expressed
in milligrams (mg). [9] A number of foods contain noteworthy amounts of vitamin E, especially nuts, vegetable oils,
seeds, fortified cereals, and green leafy vegetables. Wheat germ is a very rich source of vitamin E as well, with 20.3
mg per 1 tablespoon (100 % daily value); other notable sources include liver, eggs, avocado, and yams. [11]
Top 30 Foods Rich in Vitamin E

The USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 25, provides a list of selected foods
possessing significant vitamin E
content (vitamin E in milligrams [mg]):
1. 1 cup of ready-to-eat cereals (raisin bran) – 14.01 mg
2. 3/4 cup of ready-to-eat cereals (whole grain) – 13.50 mg
3. 3/4 cup of ready-to-eat cereals (wheat flakes) – 13.44 mg
4. 1/4 cup of sunflower seed kernels (dry roasted, with salt added) – 8.35 mg
5. 1 oz (24 nuts) of almonds – 7.43 mg
6. 1 cup of spinach (frozen, chopped or leaf, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 6.73 mg
7. 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil (linoleic [approx. 65%]) – 5.59 mg
8. 1 cup of canned tomato products (puree, without salt added) – 4.93 mg
9. 1 tablespoon of salad or cooking safflower oil (high oleic) – 4.64 mg
10. 1 cup of turnip greens (frozen, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 4.36 mg
11. 1 ounce of hazelnuts or filberts – 4.26 mg
12. 1 ounce of mixed nuts (dry roasted, with peanuts, with salt added) – 3.10 mg
13. 1 cup of carrot juice (canned) – 2.74 mg
14. 1 ounce of pine nuts (dried) – 2.65 mg
15. 1 cup of beet greens (cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.61 mg
16. 1 cup of pumpkin (canned, without salt) – 2.60 mg
17. 1 cup of dandelion greens (cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.56 mg
18. One piece of 106 g swordfish (cooked, dry heat) -2.55 mg
19. 1 cup of sweet potato (canned, vacuum pack) – 2.55 mg
20. 1 cup of mustard greens (cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.49 mg
21. 1 tablespoon of canola oil – 2.44 mg
22. 1 cup of broccoli (frozen, chopped, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.43 mg
23. 3 oz of rainbow trout (farmed, cooked, dry heat) – 2.37 mg
24. 1 cup of red sweet peppers (raw) – 2.35 mg
25. 1 ounce of peanuts (all types, dry-roasted, with
26. 1 tablespoon of regular margarine (80% fat, composite, tub, with salt) – 2.19 mg
27. 1 cup of asparagus (frozen, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.16 mg
28. 1 cup of collards (frozen, chopped, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt) – 2.13 mg
29. 1 tablespoon of salad or cooking peanut oil – 2.12 mg
30. 1 cup of red ripe tomatoes (canned, stewed) – 2.12 mg [12]
Despite the prevalence of vitamin E supplements, which can be taken orally as soft gels, tablets, or
capsules at a dose of 50-1,000 IU, nothing beats the vitamin E obtained from food. Many clinical trials
say that a dose of 400-800 IU of vitamin E per day proves to be safe and effective in preventing
diseases and treating adults. [11]
References
[1] Sen C. K., Khanna S., & Roy S. (2006). Tocotrienols: Vitamin E beyond tocopherols. Life
Sciences, 78(18): 2088-2098. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16458936?dopt=Abstract
[2] Traber M. G. (2007). Vitamin E regulatory mechanisms. Annual Review of Nutrition, 27: 347-
362. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17439363?dopt=Abstract
[3] Bell E. F. (1987). History of vitamin E in infant nutrition. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
46(1 Suppl): 183-186. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3300257
[4] Herrera E. & Barbas C. (2001). Vitamin E: action, metabolism and perspectives. Journal of
Physiology and Biochemistry, 57(2): 43-56. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11579997
[5] Verhagen H., Buijsse B., Jansen E., & Bueno-de-Mesquita B. (2006). The state of antioxidant affairs.
Nutrition Today, 41: 244-250. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from
http://journals.lww.com/nutritiontodayonline/Abstract/2006/11000/The_State_of_Antioxidant_Affairs.3.aspx
[6] Zingg J. M. & Azzi A. (2004). Non-antioxidant activities of vitamin E. Current Medicinal
Chemistry, 11(9): 1113-1133. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from
[7] Jiang Q., Christen S., Shigenaga M. K., & Ames B. N. (2001). gamma-tocopherol, the major form of
vitamin E in the US diet, deserves more attention. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
74(6): 714-722. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11722951
[8] Packer L., Weber S. U., & Rimbach G. (2001). Molecular aspects of alpha-tocotrienol antioxidant
action and cell signalling. Journal of Nutrition, 131(2): 369S-373S. Retrieved 18 April 2013
from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11160563
[9] Dietary supplement fact sheet: Vitamin E. Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of
Health. Retrieved 18 April 2013 from http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/
[10] Glynn R. J., Ridker P. M., Goldhaber S. Z., Zee R. Y., & Buring J. E. (2007). Effects of random
allocation to vitamin E supplementation on the occurrence of venous thromboembolism: report
from the Women’s Health Study. Circulation, 116(13): 1497-1503. Retrieved 18 April 2013
from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17846285?dopt=Abstract
[11] Ehrlich S. (2011). Vitamin E. University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved 18 April 2013
from http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/vitamin-e-000341.htm
[12] Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) (mg) content of selected foods per common measure, sorted by
nutrient content. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 25. Retrieved 19 April 2013
from
http://www.ars.usda.gov/SP2UserFiles/Place/12354500/Data/SR25/nutrlist/sr25w323.pdf
Top 10 Best Foods to Cleanse Your Liver

Doctors, medical herbalists and nutritionists are all agreed that processed western foods, lifestyles and environmental
pollution all take their toll on the health of the liver, which is primarily responsible for removing toxins from our bodies.
This quick reference guide will give you some encouragement to choose the best foods for cleansing the liver to
support your overall health! If at all possible, choose fresh organic produce as it will benefit both you and the
environment!
If the liver is overworked, it can lead to the toxification of body tissues that opens the door to disease. The “liver
cleanse” is a phrase that is well known these days but eating the right foods is equally, if not more, important. There
are also herbs that can be used to boost the process, please see our Top 10 Herbs For The Liver article for more
information.
1. Carrots – it is the high levels of provitamin A in the form of beta-carotene that make carrots a good choice for a
healthy liver if the body is able to convert them into vitamin A (see 8. Avocado). A word of caution: some sites
recommend high doses of carrot juice as a liver cleanse but too much beta-carotene can actually cause liver
toxicity! [1]
2. Beets contain a phytonutrient called betanin, which has been shown to have a protective effect on liver health. As
with many foods, cooking should be kept to a minimum to maintain their health-giving properties. [2]
3. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids that help to reduce the build-up of triglycerides in the liver, reducing
the risk of “fatty liver” conditions. Reducing high consumption of fat and soft drinks will also help! [3]
4. Lemon juice is well-known as a liver cleansing agent. It is recommended that you also cleanse the colon before
the liver to avoid toxins remaining in the body. [4] [5]
[4] [6]
5. Green tea is a source of catechins, another form of antioxidant that helps to maintain a balanced liver function.
6. Turmeric is high in circumin, which is a strong antioxidant and has been shown to reduce the inflammation that is
associated with many chronic diseases. [4] [7]
7. Leafy greens such as cabbage and broccoli – the presence of isothiocyanates contributes to their ability to fight
chronic illness such as liver cirrhosis. They also contain a good dose of iodine, helpful for thyroid health. [4]
8. Avocado – scientific testing in Japan has shown potent suppression of toxic liver injury in rats, which may indicate
its benefit to humans. A more recent study has shown that avocados, when taken with foods high in beta-carotene,
help the liver to absorb provitamin A and convert it to vitamin A. [8] They are also top of the list of foods that have the
lowest pesticide residues! – you can find the full list here: http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/list.php
9. Garlic has been used medicinally for many thousands of years for many kinds of illnesses – it has blood cleansing
effects, benefits the respiratory system and is now indicated to have a protective effect on the liver. [9]
10. Spinach is high in betaine, an important nutrient that benefits liver function and is therefore valuable in preventing
chronic disease. [10]
We also have a few other useful posts on liver-related herbs and other recipes, please check these out:
Top 10 Herbs For The Liver
How To Make A Liver Cleansing Detox Juice
Rosemary Kills Over 90% of Cervical Cancer & Liver Cancer Cells In Vitro!
References:
[1] http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
[5] http://www.alternative-cancer-care.com/liver-colon-cleanse-and-cancer.html
[8] http://jn.nutrition.org/content/early/2014/06/04/jn.113.187674.short?rss=1
Top 10 Natural Remedies For Kidney Stones
There are various reasons for the formation of kidney stones. It could be that your diet is too high in calcium, meat
protein, salt (increases urate), purines (found in alcoholic beverages) or oxalate (cranberry, apple, orange juices).
Insufficient water consumption is also a factor. Other causative factors are existing medical problems such as urinary
tract infection, gout, inflammatory bowel disorders, sedentary lifestyle and genetics.
People with kidney stones experience extreme discomfort, with several episodes of sudden sharp and excruciating
pain in the lower abdomen or groin that can sometimes be relieved by movement. The pain may or may not radiate,
depending on whether the stones move. Signs and symptoms associated with kidney stones include abdominal pain,
fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. Larger stones are often treated by using ultrasound or X-rays to locate them and
then shock waves or laser treatment to break them down. In fewer than 1% of cases they will have to be surgically
removed.[1]
Once it is medically confirmed that you have kidney stones, doctors will more than likely send you home with a
prescription for heavy duty pain killers. However, medications are not the only tool that can relieve you of your
suffering from kidney stones. In fact, there are natural remedies that may be able to provide additional comfort as you
and your body duel with kidney stones.
10 Natural Remedies For Kidney Stones

1. Increase Your Hydration – This is by far the best natural remedy for any type of kidney stones you have. People
diagnosed with kidney stones should be consuming a minimum of 10 glasses of fluids on a daily basis. People who
are at risk of developing cystine stones should drink more fluids, at least 14 glasses every day. To determine if you
are drinking enough fluids, check if your urine is colourless. If not, then you ought to increase your hydration and
must be consistent with it.
Water remains the best fluid for everyone and should comprise at least half of their hydration routine. Although there
is calcium concentration in water in general, it plays a diminutive role in stone formation. Lemon juice (up to half a cup
per day) is a wonderful ingredient that can be added to your water or food (especially good with meats or fish) and is
proven to be beneficial in the prevention of kidney stones because it contains citric acid.
As citrate levels in the body increase, your protection against kidney stones also increases. The high content of
vitamin C will also boost your immune system. [2]
2. Dandelion – A taproot perennial that grows abundantly in North America, Europe and Asia, dandelion (Taraxacum
Officinale) has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties [3] that contribute to the prevention of kidney stones. On top
of that, dandelion is a natural diuretic which makes it a great tonic and cleanser for our kidneys, often helping to
dissolve stones and to prevent further formation of them. You can make an infusion of dandelion leaves or a
decoction of the root, either by harvesting your own plants (the roots can be dried slowly in a warm oven for storage)
or by buying ready-made dandelion tea bags or tincture. It is best taken unsweetened as the bitter taste stimulates
the digestive system.
3. Pomegranates – Since pomegranates are low in potassium, they are great for people who are on a renal diet. A
renal diet is generally low in protein, salt, phosphorus and potassium and is recommended for people who are
suffering from renal problems like kidney stones and kidney failure. So if you are concerned about the risk of kidney
stones, start your day with a glass of fresh pomegranate juice or make a habit of eating pomegranates.
4. Basil – Basil is commonly found in our kitchen, but did you know that basil is a known natural remedy for kidney
stones? Basil can strengthen our kidneys. [4] Make a tea or juice out of fresh basil leaves, adding some raw honey.
Drinking this delicious concoction everyday can help to alleviate the discomfort of kidney stones.
5. Grapefruit – Grapefruit ranks as one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants among fruits therefore the
regular consumption of grapefruit can help you ward off urinary tract infection. Grapefruit juice is another powerful tool
that reduces calcium oxalate kidney stones. [5] In a study published in The British Journal of Nutrition, the incidence of
calcium oxalate stone formation lowered among their subjects who drank half to one litre of grapefruit juice daily due
to an increased urine pH and increased citrate levels.
6. Marshmallow Root – Marshmallow root has strong anti-inflammatory properties. This herb contains mucilages,
which form a protective coating to soothe tissues that have become inflamed and irritated. This coating protects the
digestive and urinary tract when kidney stones pass. Dr. James Balch, author of The Super Antioxidants,
recommends a daily intake of two pints of marshmallow root tea to effectively flush out kidney stones from the
body. [6]
7. Green Tea – Perhaps everybody agrees that green tea is a wonder drink. A group of doctors from Nagoya City
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences conducted a study in 2005 about the preventative effects of green
tea in the formation of renal stones. The study showed that the antioxidant properties of green tea actually lowered
the formation of calcium oxalate deposits thus preventing calcium oxalate urolithiasis. [7] Opt for the caffeine free
green tea, and drink at least 2-3 cups a day.
8. Wild Carrot (Leaves and Seeds) – As an aromatic herb, wild carrot (Daucus Carota) is not to be confused with the
common vegetable carrot. Wild carrot is a known diuretic, which means it encourages toxins and waste to be flushed
out from our kidneys. [8] It has been said that a herbal infusion of the wild carrot leaves and seedsis a good natural
antidote to kidney stone formation. Even if stones have begun to form, the same concoction is still reported to be
capable of diminishing those harmful stones and reducing their recurrence.
9. Eat for the benefit of your kidneys – Too much salt, alcohol and preservatives top the list of food items to avoid.
Go for meals that contain a minimal amount of salt and as much as possible cook your own food from fresh
ingredients. Buying canned goods is not only more costly but also potentially dangerous to your kidneys. Invest in
fruits and vegetables that have high antioxidant properties such as tomatoes, blueberries, squashes and carrots.
Beware of red meats (such as pork and beef), oxalate rich foods (nuts, spinach and beans), cold water fish, refined
foods like white bread and commercial fast foods like French fries and burgers.
10. A healthy lifestyle means healthy kidneys – Before taking any prescription drugs, always consult your doctor
first. There are medications that can do more harm to your kidneys than good. Start a habit of doing at least 30
minutes of exercise every day – this will help your body’s fluids to circulate and to keep your system free from kidney
stones.
More: – Note that we also have a page all about Herbs For Kidney Stones.
References
[1] “Kidney stones.” NHS Choices. Gov.uk, n.d. Web. 21 July 2013. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-
stones/Pages/Introduction.aspx
[2] Penniston, Kristina. “Citric Acid and Kidney Stones.” UW Hospital Metabolic Stone Clinic. UW Health. UW Hospital
and Clinics, n.d. Web. 21 July 2013.http://www.uwhealth.org/files/uwhealth/docs/pdf/kidney_citric_acid.pdf
[3] Roizman, Tracy. “The Benefits of Dandelion Leaf & Root for the Kidneys.” Popular Herbal Supplements.
Livestrong.com. Livestrong Foundation, 7 Oct. 2011. Web. 21 July 2013.http://www.livestrong.com/article/546304-
the-benefits-of-dandelion-leaf-root-for-the-kidneys/
[4] “Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits of Basil.” Natural Health. Off The Grid News. N.p., 21 Apr. 2011. Web. 21
July 2013. http://www.offthegridnews.com/2011/04/21/medicinal-uses-and-health-benefits-of-basil
[5] “Grapefruit.” The World’s Healthiest Foods. George Mateljan Foundation, n.d. Web. 21 July
2013.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=25
[6] Marx, Natalie. “Alternatively Speaking: Kidney stones.” Lifestyle. The Jerusalem Post. N.p., 31 May 2012. Web. 21
July 2013. http://www.jpost.com/LifeStyle/Alternatively-Speaking-Kidney-stones
[7] Itoh, Y, et al. “Preventive effects of green tea on renal stone formation and the role of oxidative stress in
nephrolithiasis.” The Journal of Urology 173.1 (2005): 271-75. Abstract. PubMed.gov. Web. 21 July
2013.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15592095
[8] “Wild Carrots.” Plants. Preparing To Survive. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 July
2013.http://www.preparingtosurvive.com/carrot.html
Top 12 Home Remedies For Heartburn

Heartburn presents as a painful warm and burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone. The pain
arises from the stomach or lower chest and then spreads towards the neck, throat,and jaw as a result of stomach
acid backing up to the esophagus (the swallowing pipe where the food passes from the mouth to the stomach).
Heartburn is medically labeled as pyrosis. It commonly appears after a meal or during sleep. The pain associated
with heartburn worsens when one lies down or bends over and can last for several minutes and even hours. [1]
Heartburn afflicts a few people occasionally. However, when heartburn occurs too often, gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD) should be suspected. Although heartburn itself poses no serious health concern, it can sometimes
interfere with a person’s daily routine. The discomfort of heartburn particularly can hinder a person from
accomplishing certain tasks. Here is a list of home remedies that may assist and prevent heartburn. Note – as always
for this site, this is not medical advice nor substitute for consultation with a qualified medical practitioner.
1. Diet modification – Add more fiber into your diet. Fiber helps keep the digestive tract healthy. Also, avoidacid-
forming foods: Certain foods and drinks can trigger an increased stomach acid secretion and hence may worsen
heartburn. These food items include coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, fatty or spicy foods, chocolates, tomatoes
and tomato sauces, peppermint and spearmint, and acidic fruits and juices such as those from oranges, pineapples,
and grapefruit. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn.
2. Eating properly – Aside from a diet devoid of heartburn triggers, eating smaller meals rather than three large ones
is advised. Don’t rush your meal into your mouth, and try smaller bites instead – as eating too much can trigger
heartburn for some. Moreover, only lie down to rest or sleep about three hours after your meal. This will ensure that
what’s inside your full stomach doesn’t press too much against the lower esophageal sphincter, a band of muscle at
the end of your esophagus responsible for closing off the esophagus.
3. Quitting smoking – Cigarette smoke may contain chemicals that can weaken your lower esophageal sphincter.
4. Chewing sugar-free gum – There is more to chewing gum than just eliminating certain odors in your mouth from
some meals. The results of a study from London Hospital Medical College, UK, indicated that chewing gum is an
effective non-pharmacological treatment option for some patients with gastroesophageal reflux. [2]Chewing gum
increases the production of saliva, one of the body’s natural defensive responses against acid reflux. Saliva is
alkaline in pH and acts as an acid buffer. Moreover, chewing gum stimulates one to swallow more often. Swallowing
helps to clear the acid within the esophagus by pushing the acid back into the stomach and out of the esophagus. In
a 2005 UK study published in the Journal of Dental Research, chewing sugar-free gum for half an hour after a meal
was evidenced to reduce the acidic reflux after eating a meal. [3]
5. Fat-free Skimmed Milk – Drinking half a cup of skimmed milk can help ease the heartburn. It can temporarily
buffer stomach acids and can provide the necessary nutrients that would help irritated esophageal tissues to recover.
Note that whole milk contains fats that may induce acid production in the stomach, so drink only fat-free milk.
6. Baking Soda – Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a well-known home antacid probably just sitting at the
comfort of your kitchen cabinet. Acting as a base, it remedies heartburn by neutralizing the excess acid in the
stomach. For adults, mix 1-2.5 teaspoons of baking soda effervescent powder into a glass of water and drink this
after meals. For children, reduce the amount to a quarter or half a teaspoon. When using baking soda powder, add
one-half teaspoonful in a glass of water, and take this every two hours. [4]
7. Apple Cider Vinegar – There is not much actual scientific research regarding the effectiveness of apple cider
vinegar against acid reflux – but it has been reported beneficial by some sources. Apple cider vinegar, although acidic
itself, supposedly helps to balance the acid production in the stomach, buffering the acidity level. Mix one teaspoon to
two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with eight ounces of water, and drink this to relieve the heartburn. Add honey
if apple cider vinegar doesn’t exactly suit your taste.
8. Apples and Bananas – Snack on apples or bananas, whether fresh or dried. Both fruits are reported to work
charms in reducing the burning sensation: Apples and bananas are reported alkalinizing and may help neutralize the
excess acid.
9. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice – Licorice holds a 1000+ year history of being used as a medicinal herb. The sweet-
flavored root of Glycyrrhiza glabra possesses a broad range of health-promoting and therapeutic properties, such as
anti-inflammatory effects. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which is also used as peptic ulcer treatment and
expectorant. However, glycyrrhizin can also produce negative side effects such as hypertension and edema.
Eliminating glycyrrhizin from licorice (i.e., deglycyrrhizinated) would provide the beneficial effects of licorice without
these symptoms. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice works against heartburn by helping in minimizing the inflammation
caused by the acid reflux on the esophagus tissues and in initiating the healing of irritated mucous membranes. [5]
10. Ginger – Around 2 to 4 grams of fresh ginger can help ease the irritation and inflammation on the esophagus that
typically comes with heartburn. Ginger works in an almost similar fashion with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
but with lesser side effects. It suppresses the synthesis of prostaglandin and leukotriene, which act as mediators of
inflammation. [6] Ginger tea makes a wonderful remedy for digestive problems, including heartburn.
11. Oatmeal – Oatmeal can constitute a low-fat, high-fiber meal. Such meals limit the acidity in the stomach to a
manageable level and soothe the stomach itself. As mentioned earlier, bananas can help neutralize the excess acid,
so top your oatmeal with sliced bananas for breakfast.
12. Aloe vera – The juice that can be extracted from Aloe vera can reduce the inflammation caused by the excess
acids on the irritated esophagus. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have already demonstrated the anti-inflammatory
effect of Aloe vera, which inhibits substances involved in the inflammation process such as thromboxane B2 and
prostaglandin F2. [7] Try drinking half a cup of non-laxative Aloe vera juice prior to meals.
For more, please see our page http://herbs-info.com/herbs-for-acid-reflux.html
References:
[1] Nordqvist C. (2011). “What Is Heartburn? What Causes Heartburn?.” Medical News Today. Retrieved 30 July
2013 from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9151.php
[2] von Schonfeld J., Hector M., Evans D. F., & Wingate D. L. (1997). Oesophageal acid and salivary secretion: is
chewing gum a treatment option for gastro-oesophageal reflux? Digestion, 58(2): 111-114. Retrieved 30 July 2013
[3] Moazzez R., Bartlett D., & Anggiansah A. (2005). The effect of chewing sugar-free gum on gastroesophageal
reflux. Journal of Dental Research, 84(11): 1062-1065. Retrieved 30 July 2013
[4] Sodium bicarbonate (oral route, intravenous route, subcutaneous route). Retrieved 30 July 2013
from http://www.drugs.com/cons/sodium-bicarbonate-oral-intravenous-subcutaneous.html
[5] Collins D. (2011). “Effective heartburn home remedies using DGL deglycyrrhizinated licorice?”
Retrieved 30 July 2013 from http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/heartburn-home-remedies-
dgldeglycyrrhizinated-licorice
[6] Grzanna R., Lindmark L., & Frondoza C. G. (2005). Ginger–an herbal medicinal product with broad
anti-inflammatory actions. Journal of Medicinal Food, 8(2):125-132. Retrieved 30 July 2013
[7] Surjushe A., Vasani R., and Saple D. G. (2008). Aloe vera: A short review. Indian Journal of
Dermatology, 53(4): 163-166. Retrieved 30 July 2013 from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/?report=classic
Top 20 Natural Painkillers In Your Kitchen
Note – as always – this is just background information, not medical advice or a recommendation to self-medicate.
Pain may be an indicator of more serious issues and so if you have symptoms, medical consultation is advised. Also,
be sure to ask your physician if there are any known interactions between herbs and medications you are taking.
Just discovered a fantastic, fascinating list of natural painkillers that are common kitchen ingredients! What’s
interesting is that the list is not just a basic list – but also gives specific information as to the type of pain that
researchers have found that these natural ingredients may assist with – and the way in which the food is used (not all
of the remedies involve actually eating the herb / food in question!)
This list is absolutely incredible – and the uses are based on reports from scientific research (this info is included at
the source article – link at the foot of my commentary). The original list is a bit of a long read though, requiring much
scrolling – and so we thought it might be good to seem them all “at a glance” – so for those who want to “skim”
through the list really quickly, I made a “short version” of the top 20, together with a summary of the condition each
item is used for.
Once again, the miracles of nature have astounded me and made me wonder if the modern world will tamper with
everything before going full circle and realizing that “natural is best” after all! Thankfully there are still many good
scientists doing groundbreaking work in this field and I take my hat off to you.
Top 20 Natural Painkillers List
Ginger (add to 1-2 teaspoons daily to diet for general muscle pain)
Cloves (chewed gently for toothache / gum inflammation)
Apple Cider Vinegar (1tbsp mixed with water before meals for heartburn)
Garlic (made into a special oil for earache – recipe at the original article)
Cherries (joint pain, headaches – 1 bowl per day)
Oily fish (Salmon, tuna, sardines, trout, mackerel, herring–intestinal inflammation – 18oz per week)
Yogurt (PMS – 2 cups per day)
Turmeric (chronic pain – 1/4 teaspoon per day)
Oats (endometrial pain – they are gluten free)
Salt (hot, salty foot baths for ingrown toenails – 1tsp per cup of water – 20 mins twice daily)
Pineapple (stomach bloating, gas – 1 cup of fresh pineapple)
Peppermint (add a few drops of the essential oil to bath for sore muscles)
Grapes (back pain – 1 heaping cup per day)
Water (general injury pain, helps wash away the pain-triggering histamine – 8 x 8 ounce glasses per day)
Horseradish (sinus pain – 1 teaspoon twice daily)
Blueberries (bladder / urinary tract infections – 1 cup daily)
Raw Honey (topical application 4 times daily for cold sores / canker sores) (see also our special report on raw
honey)
Flax (breast pain – 3 tablespoons daily – must be ground or seeds will pass right through!)
Coffee (migraines – caffeine stimulates the stomach to absorb pain meds better)
Tomato Juice (leg cramps – tomato juice is rich in potassium – 10oz daily)
Ok, here is the link to the original page with the greater detail on each one: http://antranik.org/food-is-medicine-
20-natural-painkillers-in-your-kitchen/
List Of 40+ Herbs And Home Remedies For Pain

If you’ve been driven crazy by chronic or acute pain (who hasn’t?), you’ll do anything you can to alleviate it.
But many people are concerned (rightly so) about potentially nasty side effects or long term effects of taking pain
meds. This, combined with a huge and growing body of modern scientific research into plant chemistry, has triggered
a resurgence in interest in natural and herbal remedies for pain – which many people feel are safer and kinder to the
body in the long term – and nutritional remedies, which may be closer to addressing causes rather than just
symptoms.
This is also useful knowledge for those occasions when something strikes at 3am and you have to deal with it
however you can. For example, if you had a sudden toothache in the middle of the night and had nothing in the
medicine cabinet, what would you do? Knowledge is king and if you knew that cloves were a standard toothache
remedy in old times, you might be able to take the edge off it until you can get treatment.
We’ve collected up in one place all our posts about herbal and natural remedies for pain. Tons of great info here –
bookmark and share this page so that you can find it when you need it! Ok, here’s the list:
Top 10 Herbs For Joint Pain – Detailed page including links to scientific studies on Arnica, Ginger, Nettle, Cayenne,
Boswellia, Burdock, Flax, Turmeric, Licorice and Feverfew.
How To Make Turmeric Pain Relief Tea – a simple formula for using Turmeric, which has been called “The World’s
most healing spice.”
Top 13 Herbal Treatments For Toothache – list of herbs and food items that have been tried and tested on
toothaches since old times. Chances are that you will have at least one or two of these in your kitchen at any time.
How To Make Your Own Homemade Pain Relieving Cream – This great formula for a homemade pain relieving
cream uses coconut oil and beeswax as the base, and essential oils plus camphor and menthol as the active
components.
How To Make Homemade Pain Relief Lotion Bars These are lotion bars – not soap – and are not intended for
bathing! Made with all natural ingredients: A base of beeswax, coconut oil and shea / mango / cocoa butter – and
then a dash of essential oils. A little will melt to the touch, so the idea is that you apply them to the area you want to
treat! They should also be great for the skin.
Top 20 Natural Painkillers In Your Kitchen – one of our most popular posts ever, this one lists 20 common foods
plus the specific type of pain they are considered valuable for.
How To Make Hot Pepper Cream For Arthritis And Joint Pain I have to admit, this one looks strange but it turns
out that the capsaicin in the peppers has been reported to influence the neurotransmitters that signal pain to the
brain… clever stuff!
Know Your Abdominal Pain (Chart) – not a remedy, but a useful chart of different types of abdominal pain and
what they could mean.
Please note – this post / this website is not medical advice nor substitute for a professional medical evaluation. Pain
is your body’s way of trying to tell you something and if you have symptoms or are using medications, consult your
doctor first.
16 Home Remedies For Arthritis

We discovered a fantastic tutorial listing 16 home remedies for arthritis, courtesy of our friends over
at Common Sense Home! The link follows after our introduction to the topic.
Arthritis is a common condition that affects many people, typically as they get older. Causing pain, swelling, stiffness
and loss of mobility, it can be debilitating, not to mention very painful. Arthritis can also be aggravated or triggered by
obesity, injury or overuse. However it is widely regarded that exercise, done properly, is vital for joint health.
Some of the remedies listed in the tutorial are pretty interesting and unexpected – for example Tart Cherries.
Consuming at least 10 tart cherries per day is claimed to provide pain relief benefits to arthritis sufferers and several
studies have been published with these findings <sup[1]< sup="">. However not all studies are in agreement (are
they ever?) and a 2013 study found that although there were benefits, these were only slightly better than
placebo. [2]</sup[1]<>
Another one of the remedies that caught my eye was that of eliminating nightshades (Solanaceae) from the diet.
The nightshade family of plants is an interesting one and contains not only the tomato, bell pepper, aubergine and
potato plants, but also dangerous plants such as deadly nightshade! Solanaceae are known for having a diverse
range of alkaloids – a range of compounds that includes both some considered beneficial, and some that are
notorious poisons. Some of these substances are present in the edible plants in this family and it’s said that some
people may not get along so well with them. Another interesting tidbit is that according to Zen macrobiotic cookery,
tomato and potato are considered yin and avoided. There might be something in it.
Another one of the remedies in the list is Glucosamine / Chondritin. This is a well known supplementation for people
with joint troubles. I personally take a glucosamine / chondritin / MSM supplement and I do think that it has helped my
back pain significantly.
Ok here’s the link to the full tutorial: http://www.commonsensehome.com/home-remedies-arthritis/
More: We also have a few other posts that relate to arthritis and joint pain, be sure to check these out:
How To Make Hot Pepper Cream For Arthritis And Joint Pain
Top 10 Herbs For Arthritis
Top 10 Home Remedies For Arthritis
References:
[1] http://www.arthritistoday.org/what-you-can-do/eating-well/arthritis-diet/cherries.php
Top 14 Uses Of Ginger

Often consumed as spice or delicacy, ginger is probably one of the most popular herbs available today. Coming from
Zingiberaceae family, ginger is closely related to other potent herbs like cardamom and galangal.
The juice derived from roots of ginger is often utilized as spice in many Asian cuisines, especially in Indian delicacies.
But more than just for its culinary benefits, ginger is widely considered valuable for treating and preventing all sorts of
ailments and health conditions.
Researchers have found evidence to indicate that ginger has many medicinal properties which include antiviral,
analgesic, antispasmodic, antifungal, anti-clotting, hypotensive, expectorant, antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-
inflammatory. Ginger isalso believed to be effective in stimulating the circulatory system, promoting perspiration,
increasing blood flow, and in relaxing the peripheral blood vessels – which is definitely good for the heart.
Several scientific studies have discovered that ginger is fortified with highly potent compounds that explain the herb’s
high regard amongst herbalists and dieticians in treating and preventing conditions like muscle pain, gastrointestinal
infections, high cholesterol, seasickness, nausea, diabetic cataract, and arthritic pain. In Asian cultures, ginger is
used to prevent flu, suppress coughing, and treat common colds, inflammation and sore throat. This rhizome can also
be used to treat morning sickness, diarrhea, and tummy pain.
Also recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger contains valuable compounds like gingerols, shogaol, and
zingerone that are known for their pain relieving effects. This makes this spice one of the most popular home
remedies for pain-related conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and knee osteoarthritis.
Recent scientific researches have also claimed that ginger may even be effective in combating the development of
cancer cells. Researchers found out through lab tests that ginger is capable of halting the growth of several cancer
cells that are believed to be difficult to treat like prostate, pancreatic, breast, colon, skin carcinoma, ovarian and lung
cancer cells.
Through the years, people have developed various ways on how to use and benefit from this powerful herb. Whether
consumed raw or dry, it cannot be denied that ginger brings about lots of health benefits to the body.
Eager to know the top 14 ways on how to use ginger? Here, then, is the link to the full
tutorial:http://thenerdyfarmwife.com/14-way-use-ground-ginger/
14 Ways to Use Ground Ginger
I know when I was first learning about herbs, I would excitedly read a new recipe or tutorial only to find out
it needed some exotic-sounding special ingredient that required an internet order to obtain.
I remember that feeling of frustration and thought, I’d share with you fourteen ways to use ground ginger,
easily obtained from the spice section of your local supermarket.
Before we get started, a quick rundown on some of the potential benefits of ginger:
 anti-inflammatory, useful for rheumatic & arthritic conditions that feel better when heat is applied
 helps warm & energize the body when you are chilled and/or sluggish feeling
 helps with colds & flu when chills & congestion are among the symptoms
 and it really stars in alleviating upset stomach, nausea & vomiting
It’s important that if you have high or low blood pressure, have any bleeding disorders or are on blood
thinners or other such medications, that you consult your health care professional before using a lot of
ginger in therapeutic doses.
Okay, now that you’ve got the basic info and disclaimers, let’s get started!
1. Tea
 Ginger tea is easy to make. Measure 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger into a heat proof mug or glass and
pour 1 cup of boiling water over it. Cover with a saucer and let sit until cool enough to drink before
straining. (I line a fine mesh strainer with a coffee filter to do so.) Sweeten with honey or sugar as
desired. The dose for children: 1/4 cup every two to three hours and aim for no more than 1 to 2 cups
total per day.

2. Compress
 A compress, or fomentation, is helpful for painful joints, muscle sprains or stomach aches. Make a tea
(see #1 for directions), soak a piece of flannel or washcloth for about 5 minutes, wring out and
immediately place on painful area. Cover with a towel, then a heating pad or hot water bottle, then
another towel. Leave on for 20 minutes. Repeat if needed.
3. Herbal Jello
 I recently covered this in the posts Herbal Jello and Healthier Herbal Jello. If you use regular jello, lemon
or orange are fabulous flavors to blend with ginger!

4. Candy
 Ginger candy is a yummy way to help alleviate the queasiness that sometimes accompanies
pregnancy or traveling. To make herbal candy you will need: 1 cup of prepared ginger tea (you may
want to increase the amount of ginger if a stronger flavor is desired) and 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Stir
together well in a deep, heavy saucepan. Boil over medium to medium-high heat, without further
stirring, until mixture reaches 300 degrees F, periodically stirring, if needed.
 I like to use homemade corn-free powdered sugar as molds. You can see more details about that
method and this recipe at my Rose-Petal Peppermint Drops post. It is essentially the same recipe, only
the “rose petal tea” is changed to ginger tea. You can use this method with virtually any herb or edible
flower you’d like! (Elderberry is another favorite!)

5. Ginger Ale Fizz
 This is a fun drink, especially for kids. The recipe comes from A Kid’s Herb Book by Lesley Tierra. This is a
wonderful book that both my daughter and I have poured over many times. It’s a highly recommended
resource for your home library! Make a tea, as directed in #1, only use twice as much ginger. So the
ratio will be 1/2 teaspoon ginger to 1 cup boiling water. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to reduce it a
bit, then let sit for ten minutes before straining. Stir in 2 teaspoons of sugar/honey (adjust to taste) then
gently add up to 1/2 cup carbonated water. Drink right away to preserve the fizz factor. You can also
omit the sugar/honey and replace the carbonated water with 1/2 cup ginger ale or other light tasting
natural soda. (This is a useful alternative for those accustomed to a “soft drink” type taste, but still gets
the helpful herb in them.)
6. Foot Bath
 A ginger foot bath is invigorating! It helps warm up and stimulate the entire body by increasing
circulation to the feet and legs. Persons with diabetic retinopathy may find this helpful, however, it
would be wise to double check with your health care provider first.
 Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil then add up to 2 tablespoons of powdered ginger and a pinch or two of
sea salt (optional.) Let this cool quite a bit before pouring into a basin or tub that will fit your feet
comfortably. For your first ginger footbath, start with a smaller amount of ginger then work your way up.
Soak feet for ten to twenty minutes at a time.

7. Oil
 Ginger root oil can be rubbed onto achy joints to help relieve some of the pains associated with
arthritic conditions. Another use is placing 2 to 3 drops on a piece of cotton or cotton ball and placing
in an aching ear for several hours. I like to use it in salves and balms that I make intended for sore
muscles. See my Aches & Pains Balm recipe for an example of this.
 To make the oil, place several pinches or spoonfuls (you don’t really have to be exacting on this) of
ground ginger in a small jar. Pour olive oil or sweet almond oil over the spice. Shake well and allow to
infuse for several weeks in a cool, dark place. Shake daily so that the powder doesn’t settle in one big
clump in the bottom of the jar. After about four to six weeks, strain out the oil and store in a sterilized jar
with a tight cap. This will keep about a year if stored properly.
8. Salve
 While you can use the ginger root oil directly as is, sometimes it’s more convenient and less messy to
apply in salve form. To make a salve from the oil you made in #7 above: Measure out 1 tablespoon
ginger oil and 1/2 teaspoon of beeswax. Combine together in a heat proof small jar such as a jelly jar.
Set this into a pan with a few inches of water. Slowly heat the water (not to boiling!) until the beeswax
melts. Pour into a small 1/2 ounce tin. Allow to set up then cap and store in a cool, dark cabinet. Apply
as needed.
9. Capsules
 Capsules of ginger are great to take right before a trip, if you are prone to motion sickness. They’re also
helpful for when you’re feeling a bit icky, run down, or your stomach feels yucky. I make my own
capsules two ways. The first is by using encapsulation tools I bought from Mountain Rose Herbs.
 My other, really cheap way that I often employ is to reuse tiny supplement capsules that we only take
a sprinkle of at a time. For instance, germanium is excellent to take when you’re sick. But, I don’t like to
take large amounts of any one vitamin or mineral because that’s a good way to upset the balance of
its cofactors; I’m a micro-doser. So, if someone is under the weather, I might mix a spoonful of honey
with a tincture or a bit of herb like olive leaf and I will also add a sprinkle of germanium. I save all of the
capsules once they’re empty and toss them back in the bottle. I repry them open and use a tiny
measuring spoon to refill with powdered ginger. Then, I have an easy-to-swallow sized pill perfect for
kids and those with a sensitive gag reflex.

10. Tincture
 I can’t make this list without mentioning tinctures! To make one, put a generous pinch or two of ground
ginger in a small jar then cover with 80 proof or higher vodka or brandy. (Chopped fresh ginger will
work even better, but use what you have.) Cap and shake well then store in a cool, dark place like a
cupboard. After six weeks or so, strain out the herbs and rebottle the tincture in a sterilized jar. Label
clearly with the date and ingredients. These will keep for at least a year, but likely much longer.
 A general dosage for adults is 3 dropperfuls, three times a day, half as much or less for a child. I usually
dispense tinctures to my children about 3 or 4 drops at a time. I like to dose ginger tincture in a glass of
ginger ale. But, you can also mix some with a spoonful of honey. Brave souls can even take a
dropperful directly in the mouth, followed by a swig of water.
11. Medicinal Vinegar &/or Oxymel

 I covered this in the post How to Make Medicinal Vinegars & Oxymels. Ginger Oxymel is helpful for
chest congestion and queasy tummies.

12. Ginger Syrup
 Before I found out my issues with gluten, I almost constantly felt sick. It was reminiscent of the morning-
and-all-day queasiness I felt when pregnant. For a few years, Maalox was my lifesaver and I went
through bottle after bottle of it. (Eek! I know!) Then, I became more health-conscious and switched to
some tiny, expensive bottles of ginger syrup from the health food store. Eventually, I figured out that
food can be the root of many illnesses, dropped the gluten and queasiness became a thing of the past!
I now also know that I could have saved a ton of money by making my own ginger syrup.
 While there are several methods of making ginger syrup, I’ll share an easy honey-based one with you
now.
 First, make a very strong tea (see directions on #1 of this list.) Use twice as much ginger or half as much
water when making your tea – you may want to experiment to find what strength works best for you,
but that’s a good starting point.
 Next, measure out two to three times as much honey, as tea. I can’t recommend raw, local honey
highly enough, but use what you can get. While the tea is still warm, gently stir the honey into it.
 Once the ingredients are fully incorporated, pour into a sterilized jar. Store for around a month in the
refrigerator. (Add several tablespoons of vodka or brandy to extend shelf life by several more months.)
Dosing: 1 to 2 teaspoons for children over a year old, 1 tablespoon for adults up to five times per day,
as needed.
13. Liniment
 When I was a kid, my parents had this bright green, minty smelling alcohol I would rub on my legs when
I had growing pains. Now I know that this is called a liniment and is easily duplicated at home.
Depending on which herb you choose, your liniment will be warming or cooling. A ginger liniment is
warming and can increase blood circulation and help when you’re feeling stiff and achy – especially if
the discomfort is a result of cold weather.
 To make a liniment: place several pinches of ground ginger in a jar. Cover completely with rubbing
alcohol (you can also use witch hazel extract or vinegar) then cap. Let this sit in a cupboard for a
couple of weeks, shaking whenever you remember. After this amount of time, strain out and discard
the ginger. Rebottle the liniment in a (preferably dark) bottle. Make sure to clearly label that this is for
external use only and keep out of reach of children. If you have any concern at all about children
getting into this, then use vinegar as your menstruum instead of rubbing alcohol. Rub this on strained
muscles and areas of arthritic pain.
14. Honey Mixture

 Finally, the last way you can use ground ginger is the quickest, easiest and my most favorite way. Just
put a spoonful of honey into a tea cup or small bowl, put in a tiny pinch of ginger, stir together then eat!
Can’t beat the simplicity of that! (Remember, children shouldn’t ingest honey until they are over a year
old.)
11 Home Remedies For Sore Muscles

Even the fittest, healthiest person in the world experiences sore muscles. Often caused by
overuse, injury or lack of certain essential minerals, sore muscles are a nuisance, though
fortunately most often the discomfort will pass within a couple of days, so long as there is
not a more serious underlying condition.
We found a great list of all-natural home remedies for sore muscles for you to add to your home
remedy database. These include both oral and topical remedies – and the list contains some
interesting ones I was not aware of. For example blackstrap molasses – which contains significant
amounts of magnesium. The original source page includes a fascinating traditional drink which
includes molasses, called Switchel. This is apparently a very old Yankee recipe… though with a
name like that is sounds as though it may just have even older, European origins. I had to look it up:
I was completely wrong… according to Wikipedia, switchel, also known ashaymakers’ punch,
originated in the Caribbean – though it is reported to have been popular as early as the late 1600′s!
How’s that for an old school traditional remedy?
Note that these remedies are in general for minor complaints. If you are injured or in severe pain, of
course, seek medical attention.
14 Home Remedies For Nausea

Nausea is one of my least favorite things in the entire universe, so I was really pleased to find a
whole list of natural remedies for it! Some of these I was not aware of.
I added a few of my own personal remedies too, here they are:
1) Washing your face in cold water. I sometimes find this can help with nauseous or dizzy feelings –
and it’s certainly refreshing!
2) Oregano leaf tincture. This is a known powerful antibiotic and so if the upset is caused by bad
bacteria, this may help. It’s one of my go-to remedies whenever I have something going on with my
belly. Note that it has been suggested to follow up the next day with probiotics, as oregano may wipe
out bacteria indiscriminately, leading to a need to re-up on the “good guys”.
3) Probiotics. I need to do some more research on this to learn whether the “good bacteria” actually
overpower or somehow smite the “bad bacteria”. However, from my own experience, taking a
probiotic often seems a very rapid way to dispel nausea. It has worked for me lots of times and
seems to keep my digestive system (which is prone to all kinds of weirdness) on the good road.
Here’s a link to the probiotic brand I use on Amazon.com – it gets a lot of five star reviews…. if
you have a lot of “belly issues” I would definitely recommend that you check out the reviews and
learn about this product.
4) Activated charcoal. This has been used since the late 1800s as a remedy for nausea, vomiting,
food poisoning and other kinds of poisoning. It is used in emergency wards around the world for
poisoning cases and so is something worth considering for a first aid kit. Activated charcoal has the
fascinating quality of being able to “adsorb” toxins effectively. It can be used in capsule / tablet form
but it is said that the most rapid relief is provided by drinking “a mixture of one to two large spoonfuls
of powder in a little water. You may follow the charcoal water with a glass of plain water, if tolerated.
If the charcoal is vomited up, drink another glass of charcoal water immediately.” [1]
Note that peppermint, one of the remedies listed, is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Ok here is the link to the original list and tutorial: http://everydayroots.com/nausea-remedies
Reference:
[1] http://www.charcoalremedies.com/vomiting
22 Home Remedies For Acne

Acne is a frustrating condition that begins when sebum (grease), dirt and dead skin cells get trapped
in the pores of the skin, causing them to clog and allowing for the growth of bacteria. There are all
kinds of treatments for acne available, but nowadays people are becoming rightly cautious about the
amount of exposure of our skin to chemicals – and so interest in the use of natural remedies has
increased.
The various remedies available – whether alternative or otherwise – work in different ways to combat
acne and pimples. One mode of action is antibacterial: Get rid of the bacteria and the infection
ceases. Other remedies provide “deep cleansing” that shifts dirt that gets left behind by ordinary
washing.
The skin is one of the great cleansing organs of the body and toxins are eliminated via sweating.
These toxins also are considered an influence on acne and pimples – and so eating a “cleaner” diet
may be of benefit.
We found a brilliant tutorial listing 22 natural ways to prevent / clear up acne. These “cover all the
bases” from keeping a clean pillowcase through to applying all manner of things to the skin – from
potato through to lemon juice and many more besides.
One tip I would like to add would be to investigate the use of a more gentle soap on the face. The
more harsh chemicals strip the natural oils from the face, possibly leading to increased oil
production. That said, I would suggest to be sure to wash the face regularly. Washing the face with
plain, cool water at least twice a day does wonders for the complexion in my opinion!
One more tip: If you are interested in learning more about herbal remedies for acne, we have a
further page dedicated to the subject, with much further info: 10 Herbs For Acne
Here is the link to the full list from Everyday Roots of 22 Acne And Pimple
Remedies:http://everydayroots.com/acne-remedies
Top 10 Home Remedies For Wrinkles
What Causes Wrinkles?

Wrinkles are every woman’s worst enemy – and many men don’t want them either! Collagen and
elastin are responsible for keeping our skin smoother and younger looking. [1] As we age, our body’s
levels of elastin and collagen goes down. At first, fine lines and creases are formed on the skin. As
the loss of elasticity progresses, skin begins to get loose and wrinkles become pronounced. This is
quite disturbing especially if you are still on your late 20′s or early 30′s. Although aging is the primary
reason why skin starts to sag, there are other factors that contribute to the advancement of wrinkle
formation. A lifestyle based on cigarette smoking, high alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet and no
exercise will probably earn you premature wrinkles. Stress, dehydration, inadequate skin care and
unprotected sun exposure also account for early wrinkle formation. The areas in our body most
prone to wrinkles are around the eyes, forehead, cheeks, and necks. Women who are terribly afraid
of getting wrinkles start slapping expensive creams all over their faces at a very young age. Those
who already got them usually go see a Dermatologist and book a Botox session. Both methods
require plenty of money which others do not have the luxury of.
Before spending a fortune in ridiculously pricey cream and treatments, take a look at our collection of
home remedies and skin care tips.
Top 10 Home Remedies For Wrinkles

1. Drink Water: Plenty of It – If you do not drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water, then your skin is
in deep trouble. Water is your skin’s number one source of moisture. If you lack proper hydration,
your lips appear cracked, and your skin looks rough and blotchy. A dehydrated skin is more prone to
getting premature wrinkles. Begin and end your day with a glass of water. If your work takes you to
be always on your toes, bring a bottle of water with you. As you get into the habit of drinking water,
you will be surprised at how fresh and supple your skin feels.
Another tip is to investigate pure coconut water (get one of the brands with nothing else added). You
may find that it gives you a subtle improvement – as well as being very hydrating.
2. Load up on Vitamins A, C & E – A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E is widely considered to
contribute to a younger-looking skin. Vitamin C plays a critical role in collagen production. [2] Vitamin
E is a potent antioxidant that scours out free radicals, which cause wrinkles and skin sagging.
Vitamin A has been proven to improve skin’s elasticity and encourage the production of skin-building
compounds, thus being a popular ingredient in many anti-wrinkle creams nowadays. [3] If you fill your
diet with foods that are high in these vitamins, then you skin will surely get the best “internal
pampering” out there. Buy grapefruits, oranges and berries, and make it a goal to include oily fishes
in your meals at least thrice a week. A healthy diet means a healthy skin – pure and simple.
3. Moisturize, moisturize and moisturize – Many believe that if they invest in the most expensive
branded creams, it will take away a decade from their looks. They forgot the basic which is proper
moisturization. If they do it consistently, then wrinkles are sure to be far away from knocking early. In
a long-term study funded by a renowned beauty brand, it was found out that wrinkles develop more
slowly to those well-hydrated and moisturized skin rather than to women with dry skin. [4] So start
using a good moisturizer if you want a wrinkle-free complexion. Make use of natural oils such as
pure coconut oil and olive oil – which are very cost effective compared to many facial products. All
you need is a little amount and apply a thin layer all over your face.
4. Exfoliate at least once a week- Exfoliation is the act of removing dead skin cells revealing a
fresh layer of skin, thus, stimulating the skin to produce a new batch of dermal cells. Skin renewal
cycle is between 15 to 28 days. [5] If you do not exfoliate, dry flakes and dead skin layer piles up,
resulting in dull-looking complexion. They are kitchen recipes you can use to exfoliate your skin.
Sugar is a prominent exfoliation ingredient and you can mix it essential, moisturizing oils like olive
and coconut. Fruits also play a key ingredient in exfoliation such as avocado and papaya. During the
exfoliation process, skin is stripped with natural oils so it is very important to replenish the lost
moisture.
5. Indulge in Citrus Face Party – Lemon and pineapple are all-time favorite homemade facial
masks. Lemon and pineapples are rich in Vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acid. The former aids the
skin in collagen formation while the latter improves fine lines and plumps up existing wrinkles.
Pineapple also is high in enzyme bromelain which helps get rid of dead skin cells. [6] Eat lemon and
pineapple extensively to maintain that youthful glow. For an additional boost, use them as facial
masks. Rub a slice of lemon or pineapple all over your face in a circular motion, paying attention to
wrinkle-prone areas like forehead, chin and cheeks. Leave the thin mask for 10 minutes before
washing it off with lukewarm water. Cucumber slices and watermelon also are a time-honored treat
for the face.
6. Swap Coffee for Cocoa – Back in 2006, a study was published in The Journal of Nutrition about
the efficacy of cocoa as nature’s excellent weapon against dermal water loss, poor circulation, and
UV damage. Cocoa has rich contents of catechin and epicatchin- 2 flavanols that protect skin from
sun exposure, improve skin cell circulation, and promote hydration, thus resulting to a smoother and
healthier skin. [7]
7. When Cleansing Face, Do Not Go Overboard – Cleansing skin from dirt and makeup is a
necessary step in maintaining a youthful skin but washing more than 2 times a day with soap can do
more harm than help. Wash your skin in the morning and before going to sleep, and use a gentle
cleanser. If you are using soap, make sure it is a moisturizing one.
8. Facial Massage Is a Must – Facial massage improves blood circulation, stimulates oxygen flow,
thereby enhancing dermal condition. [8] When doing a facial massage, use the tips of your fingers
and work them in circular motion starting from the neck all through your forehead. It is best to
massage your neck and face in the morning upon waking up. It is also often suggested not to go too
hard – as this can stretch the skin.
9. Have A Glass Of Red Wine – A surprising study was conducted involving women in their 30s,
40s and 50s taking red wine extract pills. After six weeks, subjects reported a significant
improvement in their skin’s elasticity. Reports of the study indicated that the subjects felt and looked
younger. [9] Just be sure not to have a cigarette at the same time: Kick the smoking habit, as smoke
is a well known cause of “aged” skin. If you do not want the alcohol, you could try red grape juice –
though be careful to read the label and find one that is actually pure grape juice.
10. Live a Healthy Lifestyle – All these anti-wrinkle home remedies are less effective if you lead a
stressful lifestyle. Getting an adequate amount of sleep is super-important for your skin. Don’t spend
too long in the sun. Also, hit the gym after working hours or during weekends. Be active and plan a
hiking trip. Eat right and load up on fruits and vegetables.
References
[1] “Wrinkles.” Mayo Clinic. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 July
2013.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/wrinkles/DS00890
[2] “Drop a Decade from Your Face.” Articles. Dr. Oz. N.p., 31 Oct. 2012. Web. 31 July
2013.http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/drop-decade-your-face
[3] Pitman, Simon. “New Study Proves Vitamin A fights wrinkles.” Cosmetic Design. N.p., 21 May
2007. Web. 31 July 2013. http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com/Formulation-Science/New-study-
proves-vitamin-A-fights-wrinkles
[4] Hart-Davis, Alice. “Back to basics: Nothing keeps wrinkles at bay better than moisturiser.” Mail
Online. N.p., 10 June 2010. Web. 31 July 2013. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/beauty/article-
1284498/Back-basics-Nothing-keeps-wrinkles-bay-better-moisturiser.html
[5] “Exfoliation and Wrinkles.” Health Formula. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 July
2013.http://www.healthformula.com/antiaging/exfoliation.html
[6] “Textbook Of Natural Medicine” ed. Joseph E. Pizzorno & Michael T. Murray,
P.622.http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=6cjgo1IixvEC&pg=PA622
[7] Heinrich, U, et al. “Long-term ingestion of high flavanol cocoa provides photoprotection against
UV-induced erythema and improves skin condition in women.” The Journal of Nutrition 136.6 (2006):
1565-9. Pub MEd. Web. 31 July 2013. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16702322
[8] Strong, Dacia. “HOME REMEDIES TO REMOVE FINE WRINKLES.” LIvestrong. N.p., 13 June
2010. Web. 31 July 2013. http://www.livestrong.com/article/147329-home-remedies-to-remove-
fine-wrinkles/
[9] Fischer, Julia. “Can a dose of red wine rid you of wrinkles?” Mail Online. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 July
2013.http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-4632/Can-dose-red-wine-rid-wrinkles.html
Top 12 Home Remedies for Sore Throat

When a sore throat strikes, one suffers from a burning or scratching sensation at the back of the
throat and pain such that it can become very hard to swallow or even talk. Tenderness in the neck
occurs too. Sore throats are usually not medically serious, often last only for three days, and clear up
on their own, even
without treatment. [1] Sore throats however can be painful, distressing, and troublesome and should
be treated swiftly.
There are several possible causes of sore throat – virus, bacteria, smoking, and gastroesophageal
reflux disease, to name a few. Treatment is geared toward the control or elimination of these causes.
While most people swiftly rush for over-the-counter medications for relief, a variety of home
remedies that are equally effective but inexpensive and simple to use can be employed. Medications
come with side effects, but the following natural remedies do not:
1. Saltwater gargles – One of the most recommended means to help get rid of sore throat is
saltwater gargling. Not only is a gargle with saltwater convenient and simple to make, but also it is
effective and produces a rather quick effect. A warm cup of water with half a teaspoon of salt eases
the swelling associated with sore throat. [2]It does this by drawing the water out of mucous
membranes in the throat. This in turn loosens and washes away the mucus that might accompany it.
Since pain is related to the swelling, relieving the inflammation in sore throat also lessens the
discomfort. Note that the water for gargling is intended for “gargling only” and should not be
swallowed. Also, too much salt is a no-no since this would only lead to the dehydration of mucous
membranes.
2. Tabasco gargle – A spicy alternative to saltwater gargle is a solution of 10-20 drops of Tabasco
sauce in a glass of water. Tabasco sauce comprises mainly peppers, vinegar, and salt, and Tabasco
gargle hence uses the antiviral and antibacterial properties of the three to eliminate the pathogen
causing the sore throat. Similar with saltwater gargle, do not swallow Tabasco gargle since it can
irritate the stomach. [2]
3. Baking soda solution – Baking soda possesses antibacterial activity, specifically
against Streptococcus mutans. [3] A baking soda gargle can help reduce the number of bacteria
causing sore throat. Mix half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water and use the solution
as a gargle.
4. Honey – Honey has long been appreciated for its antibacterial properties. Such feat can be used
in the treatment of sore throat. It can eliminate the bacteria responsible for sore throat and hasten
the healing process. Honey can also draw water out of inflamed tissue; this ability helps in reducing
the swelling. Mix two or three teaspoons of honey in a cup of warm water or even tea. [2]
5. Lemon – Lemons contain a wide range of beneficial phenolic compounds and vitamins, minerals,
dietary fiber, essential oils, and carotenoids – just what you need to boost your immune system to
combat any infection! [4] According to the USDA Nutrient Database, an average-sized raw lemon (100
g) boasts 53 mg of vitamin C, 2.8 g of dietary fiber, 8 mg of magnesium, and 0.06 mg of zinc. Add
some lemon juice to a glass of hot water, plus two teaspoons of honey. Alternatively, consume the
fruit directly, with some salt on the lemon if desired.
6. Blackcurrant – Like lemon, blackcurrants are rich in vitamin C and minerals. According to the
USDA Nutrient Database, a 100 g blackcurrant provides 181 mg of vitamin C and 1 mg of vitamin E,
24 mg of magnesium, 59 mg of phosphorus, and 0.27 mg of zinc. [5] In a Nigerian study, blackcurrant
was determined to have high antioxidant content and free radical scavenging abilities. [6] All these
make blackcurrant an excellent counter to the infection related to sore throat. Make a blackcurrant
gargle by diluting blackcurrant concentrate in some hot water.
7. Vitamins – If the cause of your sore throat appears to be a viral or bacterial infection, there’s
nothing better to do than helping your body fight off what is causing the infection. Bolster and
strengthen your immune system by consuming a diet packed with vitamins C and E and minerals
such as zinc and magnesium.
8. Water – It goes without saying that an adequate consumption of water works wonders during
infection. Drink plenty of water. Water in general will keep one’s mucous membranes moist and
hydrated. Furthermore, water helps thin the secretions in the throat and can soothe the irritation.
9. Tea – Drinking a cup of tea can be very beneficial for someone suffering from sore throat. As it is
basically a fluid, it works similarly with water, soothing the throat and keeping the tissues hydrated.
Teas also boast a good amount of antioxidants, which will strengthen one’s immunity to combat the
infection.
10. Slippery elm – Slippery elm is a century-old herbal remedy for sore throats. It contains
mucilage, which becomes a slick gel when mixed with water and which can be used to coat and
soothe the mouth and throat. The fine and dried powder from the inner back of slippery elm can be
mixed with teas or extracts or can be taken as lozenges. Add around two tablespoons of slippery
elm powder into two cups of hot water to make a tea. Drink this thrice daily. [7]
11. Licorice root – Licorice has long been utilized as a home remedy for sore throat. It possesses
antiinflammatory and demulcent properties, soothing the irritation in the throat. A study from the
Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, India, demonstrated that licorice gargle
performed 5 min before anesthesia attenuates the incidence and severity of postoperative sore
throat. [8] Consume some warm licorice tea or incorporate licorice in gargles.
12. Marshmallow root – The root of the shrub “marshmallow” works in the same manner as slippery
elm. Through its throat-coating mucilage, marshmallow root keeps the throat coated and eases the
soreness of inflamed tissues. According to a 2010 German investigation from the University of
Munster, the aqueous extract and the raw polysaccharides from the roots of marshmallows are
effective treatment for irritated mucous membranes. These bioadhesive polysaccharides are
associated with the physical formation of mucin-like substance on top of the irritated tissues.
Moreover, the marshmallow extract stimulates cell viability and proliferation of epithelial cells. [9] One
can avail of marshmallow’s healing properties by making a tea out of it: add two teaspoons of the
herb in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes and then strain and drink. Drink 3 to 5 cups daily.
References
[1] Sore throat. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 17 July 3013 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sore-
throat/DS00526
[2] Anonymous. (2013). Sore throats: treatments and remedies. Reader’s Digest. Retrieved 17 July
3013 fromhttp://www.readersdigest.co.uk/health-home/more-things-that-can-go-
wrong/sorethroats-treatments-and-remedies
[3] Drake D. (1997). Antibacterial activity of baking soda. Compendium of Continuing Education in
Dentistry Supplement, 18(21): S17-21. Retrieved 17 July 2013
[4] Gonz·lez-Molina E., Dom”nguez-Perles R., Moreno D. A., & Garc”a-Viguera C. (2010). Natural
bioactive compounds of Citrus limon for food and health. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical
Analysis, 51(2): 327-345. doi: 10.1016/j.jpba.2009.07.027. Retrieved 17 July 2013
fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19748198
[5] Blackcurrant. Wikipedia. Retrieved 17 July 2013 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackcurrant
[6] Oboh H. A., Osagie A. U., & Esewe R. E. (2012). Evaluation of antioxidant and free radical
scavenging abilities of some Nigerian packaged fruit juices. Nigerian Journal of Nutritional Sciences,
33 (1): 31-36. Retrieved 17 July 2013 from http://www.ajol.info/index.php/njns/article/view/84752
[7] Ehrlich S. D. (2011). Slippery elm. University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved 17 July 2013
fromhttp://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/slippery-elm
[8] Agarwal A., Gupta D., Yadav G., Goyal P., Singh P. K., & Singh U. (2009). An evaluation of the
efficacy of licorice gargle for attenuating postoperative sore throat: a prospective, randomized,
single-blind study.Anesthesia & Analgesia, 109(1): 77-81. doi: 10.1213/ane.0b013e3181a6ad47.
Retrieved 17 July 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19535697
[9] Deters A. et al. (2010). Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from Marshmallow roots (Althea
officinalis L.): cellular internalisation and stimulation of cell physiology of human epithelial cells in
vitro. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 127(1): 62-69. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.050. Retrieved 17
July 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19799989
20 Home Remedies For Allergies

Millions of people suffer from allergy to pollen. I have been sneezing every day the past couple of
months, and feel as though I have had a sore throat most of the time. Our friends over at Common
Sense Home have a great page all about home remedies for allergies – including herbs, natural
antihistamines, dietary changes, supplements and of course good old local raw honey. Local raw
honey has been considered beneficial for allergies for a long time – something to do with the fact
that the presence of local pollen helps the body to develop a tolerance to it, instead of seeing it as
some kind of foreign pollutant.
There are several herbs & spices listed, some of which we have featured on this site – reishi
mushroom,turmeric, rosemary and peppermint essential oil.
One thing I need to add to the list (I’m slightly surprised they missed this one) – look into HEPA air
filtration. HEPA filter air purifiers remove particles from the air, including pollen, dust and mold. With
the air cleaned of these particles, breathing should be easier and assuming the unit is working, there
will simply be less irritants to bother you. Other forms of filtration – for example air ionizers – have
been shown to be less effective. HEPA technology is used by NASA for their cleanrooms – and if it
is good enough for them, that’s good enough for me!
Many of the good quality HEPA filter air purifiers can run to hundreds of dollars – but there are
various “low tech” ways to make your own. I’m actually in the process of building my own using
HEPA filter squares, a home-made filter box and an industrial air blower. I will run a feature on this
soon… most likely at my site www.off-grid.info
Anyway here is the link to the full list of remedies for
allergies: http://www.commonsensehome.com/home-remedies-for-allergies
5 Herbs That Boost Blood Flow

Poor circulation is a common symptom of Diabetes, as well as being linked to reduced brain function and mental
alertness. If you suffer from inadequate circulation, you will also know that it can also lead to feeling cold, especially
in the hands and feet. So we’re very pleased to have found this user-friendly guide to the five best herbs for
promoting blood flow! The link is after our introduction to the topic.
Here is an interesting fact that could help to simplify our approach to staying healthy: All of the cells in our body are
dependant on blood and its circulation to provide a steady supply of oxygen, energy and nutrients and to remove
waste products.
If we focus on improving our circulation, not only will we reduce the risk of diseases like arteriosclerosis but there
must be a knock-on positive effect on every organ of the body, improving its function, and it could treat many
common health problems at the root. Often the aim of herbalism is to support the body’s natural defences and
prevent disease from taking hold.
There is growing interest in herbs and natural remedies that can be used safely without the possible unpleasant side-
effects or the unknown long-term effects of modern medicines. Many herbs do not produce instant results but tend to
work more gradually.
There is one lesser known activity that will also help to improve your circulation – deep breathing! Regular periods of
exercise will help you expand your lung capacity but conscious slow, deep breathing will boost these benefits and will
be helpful even on its own.
Some other tips include ensuring you have enough vitamin E and B vitamins in your diet. Another herb that has been
shown to help with blood circulation is Ginkgo Biloba – it is not mentioned in the article but has shown promising
results in testing (enough for it to have been approved by the Norwegian Medicines Agency!) Ginkgo, which is
a peripheral vasodilator like hawthorn and lime flowers, is often prescribed by medical herbalists for patients with poor
circulation to improve oxygenation of the blood.
Ok here’s the link to the list of herbs for circulation: http://naturehacks.com/natural-remedies/herbs-that-
improve-circulation/
Note – this website does not give medical advice. It’s important to check with your doctor that herbs and supplements
will not interact with any medications you are taking, also do not use this information in a way that goes against or
replaces the advice of your physician.
Further resources:
Top 10 Herbs For Circulation
http://www.herbs-info.com/garlic.html
http://www.herbs-info.com/cayenne.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonurus_cardiaca
20 Ways To Boost Circulation

Circulation is a term used to refer to the flow of blood (and lymph fluid) through the human body. The blood transports
nutrients, oxygen and hormones to cells and removes carbon dioxide. The circulatory system also maintains body
temperature and pH – and as many people know, one of the most obvious symptoms of poor circulation is a difficulty
in keeping warm in winter. However, as can be seen, a good circulation plays a vital role in maintaining health and
vitality on many levels.
We’ve discovered a great page that lists 20 ways to improve circulation. Some of these were a surprise to me: For
example, dry skin brushing. It turns out that this technique opens the pores and stimulates the circulation. I did not
know that skin brushing was considered a detox technique, though I have seen it suggested in alternative cancer
treatments. It is reported (and makes sense) that skin brushing removes dead skin, including cells that are blocking
pores, and thus assists the body to eliminate toxins through the skin.
My next thought was “What kind of brush should be used?” – as this was not mentioned in the original article. Doing a
little research, I read that it should be a brush with natural bristles, not synthetic, and the brush should be kept dry
and used only for the skin brushing. A couple more tips I read are a) the best time to perform the skin brushing is
before a bath or shower. b) the brush should pass over every part of the body once when you are a beginner, and
you can gradually increase the number of strokes per session (but the face should not be brushed). c) If you are
reddening the skin, you are brushing too hard d) Brush towards the heart.
Scientists Find Ripe Banana (with dark patches) Combats Abnormal Cells And Cancer!
Have you heard that ripe bananas may have an anti-cancer effect? Well, it looks like there may be truth in the tale:
Japanese scientists researching fruits and vegetables and their effects on health have discovered that a substance
found in ripe bananas, that has been named Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha), increases immune capacity;
leading to the conclusion that eating ripe bananas has the potential to help prevent lifestyle-related diseases and
carcinogenesis. [1]
The amount of TNF-alpha in a banana increases significantly with ripening of the banana – and bananas that have
reached the stage of having multiple brown spots are considered up to 8x more effective than those without. The
more dark patches, the higher it is thought the beneficial effects.
TNF-alpha is considered to act as an anti-cancer agent by significantly stimulating the production of white blood cells
(Leukocytes), which help to fight abnormal tumor cells in the body. Researchers determined that bananas act in a
similar fashion to Lentinan [2], a chemical immune stimulant that is intravenously administered as an anti-cancer
agent.
The beneficial effects were found to be more pronounced in Sweetio (a highland banana cultivar) than in Cavendish
(a very common commercially available banana), though cavendish bananas did have a significant effect. There are
around 300 wild and 20 edible strains of banana. [1]
Among the other fruits and vegetables tested, garlic, ginger, cabbage, eggplant, kiwi, watermelon and grape also
revealed marked immunostimulant activity.
Phytochemicals are chemical compounds that occur naturally in plants. The study of phytochemicals is of particular
interest in the modern age as various phytochemicals have been found by research scientists to play various roles in
strengthening the immune system and defending the body against diseases. Whereas earlier research focused on
nutrition, the subject of phytochemistry has become more prominent in recent times.
According to Japanese Scientists, ripe bananas(with dark spots on yellow skin) produce a substance named TNF
(Tumor Necrosis Factor) which acts as a anti-cancer agent by stimulating the production of white blood cells,and
helps to fight abnormal tumor cells in the body. Researchers determined that bananas act similar to Lentinan [2],a
chemical immune stimulant that is intravenously administered as an anti-cancer agent. To increase immune function
a protect against disease, it is a great idea to eat 1-2 ripe bananas per day.In general,it is considered that eating
whole, fresh, organic vegetables and fruits is better for health than phytochemical-based dietary
supplements:According to the American Cancer Society, “Available scientific evidence does not support claims that
taking phytochemical supplements is as good for long-term health as consuming the fruits, vegetables, beans, and
grains from which they are taken.” [3]
While ripe bananas with yellow skin and brown spots contain more sugar than less-ripe (green-skinned) bananas, it is
in the form of natural fructose and therefore much healthier than refined sugar. [4] The carbohydrates in ripe bananas
make them the perfect energy boost after or before a workout.
Make sure to avoid bananas with lesions in the skin or otherwise too ripe to eat, as these may be contaminated with
bacteria. [5]
Note – this article (as with the rest of the info in this book) is not medical advice. We report on findings from scientific
studies however these should not be considered as proof or medicinal recommendation.
References
[1] “Differences in Biological Response Modifier-like Activities According to the Strain and Maturity of Bananas” –
Department of Medical Life Chemistry, Japan, 2008.http://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/fstr/15/3/15_3_275/_pdf
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK22608/
[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phytochemical
[4] David L. Katz, MD. Nutritional Value of Ripe Bananas. http://www.oprah.com/health/Nutritional-Value-of-Ripe-
Bananas
[5] http://www.tis-gdv.de/tis_e/ware/obst/banane/banane.htm
Scientists Find Substance In Mangosteen Kills 99% Of

Breast.
Great news for mangosteen lovers and those following the quest to find novel anti-cancer medicines derived from
plants! We just received this report from our friends over at The Eden Prescription: In a new studypublished (Jun
2014) in Molecular Cancer (an open-access, peer-reviewed journal) alpha-mangostin, a substance derived
from mangosteen pericarp, was shown to kill up to 99% of human breast cancer cells in vitro.*
What was particularly interesting about this study was that the researchers gained a deeper understanding of
the mechanism of action of the mangosteen-derived substance. Alpha-mangostin was reported to block Fatty Acid
Synthase – which disrupts the cancer cells’ ability to make fatty acids – without which they die. [1]
It appears that numerous cancer cell types require Fatty Acid Synthase for their survival, which may be the reason
why mangostin has received much attention recently; it has also been found deadly also to prostate, liver, colon, and
pancreatic cancers as well as leukemia.
Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is an amazing, delicious tropical fruit – one of my favorites in fact – and was
originally native to Thailand. Don’t be fooled by the name, it does not look or taste like a mango. Mangosteen has a
thick, pithy casing (pericarp) which is easily broken or cut open to reveal the white, fleshy part inside that is eaten.
Mangosteen is also considered potentially valuable with weight loss, inflammation, heart disease and diabetes!
However it is the pericarp that may have the strongest medicinal qualities. For centuries, people in Southeast Asia
have used dried mangosteen pericarp as antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, antipyretic, analgesic, and as
a treatment for rashes. [2]
Tests like the study mentioned are the first step in the development and study of new medicines. It’s a long way
before we can say for certain that mangosteen will have a direct anti-cancer action in humans – and in this study the
beneficial substance was in the pericarp (the pithy case). However there have now been several promising studies
on mangosteen extracts – including a 2013 study in which alpha-mangostin significantly suppressed tumor growth
and reduced lymph node metastasis in mammary cancer in mice; leading researchers to conclude that “Mangosteen
extracts appear to, in fact, have chemopreventive qualities and might prove useful as adjunctive and/or
complementary alternative treatments in human breast cancer.” [2]
Mangosteen pericarp is available in supplement form.
* “In vitro” (literally “in glass”) is a scientific term used to denote that the test was done on isolated cell cultures in
laboratory glassware, as opposed to in living creatures (“In vivo”).
As always, this page is not medical advice.
References:
[1] Alpha-mangostin inhibits intracellular fatty acid synthase and induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells –
(Molecular Cancer, Jun 2014) – http://www.molecular-cancer.com/content/13/1/138 (Full text). Retrieved July
25th 2014. Pubmed: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24894151
[2] Effects of Mangosteen Pericarp Extracts Against Mammary Cancer – Alternative and Integrative Medicine, 2013 –
http://esciencecentral.org/journals/effects-of-mangosteen-pericarp-extracts-against-mammary-cancer-2327-
5162.1000139.pdf (Full text). Retrieved July 25th 2014.
Rosemary Kills > 90% of Cervical Cancer & Liver

Cancer Cells In Vitro!
The good news for Rosemary as a wonderful medicinal herb just keeps on coming! It was only a few weeks ago that
we reported that Rosemary had been found to have a remarkable positive effect on memory. Now we have
discovered that scientists have found further evidence of Rosemary‘s potential as an anti-cancer agent.
Synthetic drugs are often considered to be the only option for cancer chemotherapy. However, the trouble with some
of these substances is their lack of selectivity. Cancer drugs are often a “medicinal blunderbuss” with highly toxic side
effects and the general objective being to kill the cancer and hopefully not kill the patient at the same time! Medicinal
plants represent a fertile ground for the development of novel anticancer agents as some of them have been found by
lab studies to act selectively against the cancer cells without attacking the healthy cells.
Several studies in the past few years have indicated that rosemary may play a valuable role in cancer risk reduction.
A 2011 review [1] (published in the respected peer-reviewed Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition) of all the
studies performed up to that point, concluded that components in Rosemary suppressed the development of tumors
in several organs including the colon, breast, liver, stomach, as well as melanoma and leukemia cells. Rosemary
extract, as well as the molecular components carnosol, carnosic acid, ursolic acid, and rosmarinic acid were found to
have anticancer potential.
A brand new study (Jan 27th 2014) in the International Journal of Oncology has reported that Carnosol, an active
constituent of rosemary, significantly reduced the viability of human colon cancer (HCT116) cells in a concentration-
dependent and time-dependent manner. [3]
A 2012 study indicated that Rosemary essential oil at a concentration of 1% showed very strong anticancer activity
(>90%) on two ovarian and one liver cancer cell lines. This effect was greater than that of three of its main
components 1,8-cineole (27.23%), α-pinene (19.43%) and β-pinene (6.71%). [2] Note that essential oilsshould not be
taken internally – essential oils are way too concentrated and this can be very dangerous: Just eating the fresh or
dried culinary herb in the usual manner will deliver a small, diluted amount of the essential oil to the body “in a
manner in which we are evolutionarily designed to metabolize”.
Essential oils can often contain over 100 different molecular components. It is difficult to isolate the active principles –
and although the medicinal industry is seeking a patentable product, this may not be the best path to follow. Once
again we find modern science starting to come around to the idea that whole plant extracts work synergistically in the
body: The 2012 study [2] states:
“It is very difficult to attribute the biological activities of a total essential oil to one or a few active principles, because
an essential oil always contains a mixture of different chemical compounds. In addition to the major compounds, also
minor compounds may make a significant contribution to the oil’s activity. From the results above we could infer that
the… anticancer activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil [are] the cooperative results of their components.”
The best way to consume culinary herbs is fresh from the garden. A small sprig or a few ‘needles’ added 10 minutes
from the end of cooking of soups or stews will impart a wonderful flavor. Rosemary is also easy to dry if you are
fortunate enough to have a Rosemary bush (it is easy to grow too!) Pick a few sprigs and leave them in a warm dry
place on a piece of paper. A sunny windowsill will work. Then after a few days, simply break the needles off the
stems with a sweep of the hand and put them in a jar for future use. The scientific research has indicated that
including a small amount of rosemary in your diet may have the potential to reduce cancer risks. We cannot of course
consider this proven yet but it is further support for the idea that culinary herbs are a tremendous health benefit
overall.
Big thanks once again to The Eden Prescription for bringing this new discovery to our attention.
Read our full report on http://www.herbs-info.com/rosemary.html to learn more about this amazing herb.
References:
[2] http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/17/3/2704 (full text)
Moringa Oleifera Kills 97% of Pancreatic Cancer Cells

in Vitro
We just discovered an amazing report about Moringa, courtesy of our friends over at The Eden Prescription. In
2013 scientists reported in a paper published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine (A peer-reviewed,
open access journal) that A hot-water extract of the leaves of Moringa Oleifera killed up to 97% of human pancreatic
cancer cells (Panc-1) after 72 hours in lab tests. Moringa leaf extract inhibited the growth of all pancreatic cell lines
tested. [1]
Pancreatic cancer is very serious, one of the worst. Fewer than 6% patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
live five years after diagnosis. The typical treatment is currently chemotherapy.
We’ve dedicated a full page on our site to a detailed report on the amazing Moringa and those interested in
herbalism would do well to investigate this plant. Known as the “miracle tree” on account of its many virtues, it is well
known in India, the Philippines and several other countries, yet it is relatively unknown in countries such as the USA –
although it seems from the current buzz around it that it may well soon experience a rise to new popularity. It has a
long history of use in traditional medicine due to its properties as an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antidepressant, anti-
diabetes, pain and fever reducer and even asthma treatment.
It also contains numerous powerful anti-cancer compounds such as kaempferol, rhamnetin and isoquercetin. Now,
researchers are discovering that Moringa has anti-cancer potential with positive results so far against ovarian cancer,
liver cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma in lab tests. A list of these studies can be seen on Pubmed here.
Please note that it’s a long way before Moringa can be claimed as a cancer cure, but this kind of study is important
because it indicates the potential for a starting point for a medicine of the future. It’s especially interesting because
Moringa is already in common use – not only in herbalism but in a wide variety of other applications.
Moringa is now extensively cultivated throughout Asia, the Caribbean and Central America, but the largest Moringa
crop in the world is produced by India – where it grows natively. That may be one reason why the death rate from
pancreatic cancer in India is a stunning 84% lower than in the United States. Moringa supplements are available
online.
Note 2 – “In Vitro” literally means “In Glassware” and is the Latin expression to denote that the tests were done on
cell cultures in a lab, as opposed to “In Vivo” which means tested on living creatures.
Please check out The Eden Prescription for more reports on the cutting edge science being done investigating the
medicinal properties of herbs!
References:
Scientists Find Substance In Okra Kills 72% Of Breast

Cancer Cells In Vitro
More great news from the world of anti-cancer research today, brought to our attention by our friends at The Eden
Prescription! In a new study (Oct. 2013) published in Biotechnology Letters (a peer-reviewed journal) researchers
have discovered that Lectin, a newly discovered ingredient in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), induces apoptosis
(cell death) in human breast cancer cells in vitro. [1]
The term “In Vitro” means in a laboratory Petri dish (literally “in glassware”).
The abstract from the scientific paper claims that the antitumor effects of the okra were selective – which means that
healthy cells were not killed. This selectivity indicates a potential for an anti-cancer agent to be developed. There are
many substances that will kill all cells – cancerous or not – but these are irrelevant: The “holy grail” of this kind of
research is to find agents that are powerful against cancer cells yet leave healthy cells alone!
Please note that this report does not mean that okra is now to be considered a proven anti-cancer medicine. The fact
that okra kills some cancer cells selectively in a petrie dish does not necessarily mean it will cure your cancer. Also,
we certainly do NOT wish to advise people to ignore the expert advice of their physician / oncologist on this matter. It
will require many more trials – starting with further in vitro studies in order to better understand the mechanism of
action of lectin against these cancer cells, then in vivo studies (“in living creatures”) and then studies on humans
subjects.
Even those of us who do not have cancer, have some cancer cells in our bodies all the time and to quote Paul
Stamets “Cancer is a numbers game”. Our body has natural defenses against cancer cells as part of the immune
system, however it stands to reason that the immune system needs all the help it can get so that it doesn’t become
overwhelmed, leading to sickness. So, it is possible that okra, along with many other fruits and vegetables, has a role
to play in cancer prevention. Until this is established by more science, it seems that it would simply be beneficial to
include such healthy items in the diet on a regular basis. You will also probably gain the best nutritional benefits either
consuming such foods raw or with minimal cooking.
A few other studies have indicated anti-cancer potential for okra. [2][3]
Okra is also popular with people with type 2 diabetes and great claims are made for its efficacy in this regard. The
way it is used is to wash then cut the tops and bottoms off 3 or 4 okra, soak them in a glass of water overnight and
then drink the water first thing in the morning.
References:
Scientists Discover Amazing Anti-Cancer Effects Of

Pumpkin!
Amazing reports to share from the world of science today: Scientists in China have recently discovered
that cucurmosin, a substance extracted from the sarcocarp (fleshy part) of pumpkin, had a strong inhibitory effect on
hepatoma “HepG2″ (a type of liver cancer) cells in both cell culture and animal studies. [1]
Over 90% of the cancer cells were killed within 96 hours. Also, mice fed cucurmosin had 78.4% less tumors than
mice that had not been treated. There have been several studies indicating that cucurmosin induces apoptosis (cell
death) of cancer cells, however this study went further and identified the mechanism of action. [2]
What this tech-talk means to you, dear reader, is that there is a very strong possibility (as yet unproven) that pumpkin
will have a similar effect in humans!
Note that I have not yet been able to ascertain whether the cucurmosin molecule is undamaged by cooking: However
I think I can safely say that you can smile an extra big smile as you help yourself to some delicious pumpkin pie or
pumpkin soup!
It’s fascinating to note that cucurmosin is the agent that the pumpkin plant uses to defend against viral, fungal and
bacterial agents. [3] Nature has done the “heavy lifting” for us – wouldn’t you agree? I’m all for following in her
footsteps…
I dug up some of the other studies showing anti-cancer effects of pumpkin: Here’s a brand new one! – Anti-Cancer
effects of cucurmosin (extracted from pumpkin flesh) against human pancreatic cancer cells in vitro (glassware) and
in vivo (animals): In a new 2013 study, the same team from Fujian Medical University has determined that
Cucurmosin kills human pancreatic cancer SW-1990 cells in vitro and in vivo – decreasing the cancer cells’
proliferation and inducing apoptosis. [4]
Here’s another one: A 2011 study found that cucurmosin induced cell death in human chronic myeloid leukemia
cells. [5]
Special thanks to The Eden Prescription (amazing Facebook page, check it out!!) for letting us know about this, and
to the dedicated scientists for all their diligent work in attempting to find cures for cancer.
Sources:
[2] http://www.facebook.com/TheEdenPrescription
[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cucurmosin
[4] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23157594/
[5] http://www.medsci.cn/sci/show_paper.asp?id=47201707040
Scientists Find Substance In Ginger Kills 91% of Leukemia Cells and

Shrinks Tumors in Vivo!
In a fascinating new study (Nov 2013) published in Molecular Cancer (an open access, peer-reviewed online
journal) researchers in China have discovered that 6-Shogaol, a major pungent ingredient in ginger induces
apoptosis (cell death) in human leukemia cells both in vitro and in vivo – without side effects!
Several other studies have indicated anti-cancer potential for ginger. The researchers also stated that 6-Shogaol
“could induce cell death/apoptosis in a variety of cancer cells including human lung cancer, colorectal carcinoma,
hepatocarcinoma, ovarian cancer and breast cancer cells.”
What’s remarkable about the results found is that 6-Shogaol appears to act selectively (that’s the magic word!)
against the leukemia cells, but but not against normal bone marrow mononuclear cells.
Now it’s important to understand that this news of course does not mean that ginger is considered a provenanti-
cancer medicine. That would require many more studies – including human trials. However, it indicates that ginger,
already known to be a profoundly beneficial spice to health in many ways, has real potential as an anti-cancer agent.
Another fascinating facet of the modern research on ginger is that it is pointing towards the conclusion that the
individual compounds in ginger have a synergistic effect when taken together. In other words, the healthiest way to
consume ginger may be to eat it as a whole food.
You will often hear herbalists mention the benefits of “whole plant extracts”. This makes sense, if you take a step
back and think about it from an evolutionary standpoint. We are survivors, and we have consumed whole foods from
the natural environment for hundreds of thousands of years. Our bodies are fine-tuned to eat whole foods – and the
manner of consuming food (and even “food-like products”) that has appeared in the last few hundred or few thousand
years is highly anomalous to what we are evolutionarily designed for! It is, in fact, completely bizarre. Foodstuffs are
now “created” artificially in buildings; not for reasons of increased health, but for reasons of creating marketable
products with high transportability and shelf stability. Why do we think we can do better in a few years of science than
foods which we have been fine-tuned to eat over hundreds of thousands of years of natural selection?
The full text of the 6-Shogaol study is available free online at http://www.molecular-
cancer.com/content/12/1/135
Other names for Ginger, past or present:
Arabic – Zanjabeel
English – Gingifere
Latin – Zingiber officinale
Greek – Zingiberis
French – Gingembre
German – Ingwer
Swahili – Tangawizi
Spanish – Jenbibre
Italian – Zenzero
Chinese (Mandarin) – Jiang; Sheng jiang
Japanese – Shoga, Jinja, Myoga
Korean – Kon-gang, Geon-gang, Jinjeo, Chinjo, Saenggang
Indonesian – Aliah, Jae, Lia
Hindi – Adrak, Adrakh; Sonth, Saunth
Ginger – Background & Uses

Native to Zanzibar, ginger is the rhizome of the plant Zingiber officinale.[1]
Hot ginger tea has been used for centuries by practioners of Chinese medicine as a rememdy for respiratory
ailments, fatigue, and poor circulation. The phytonutrients in ginger repelenish nutrients in the body while the high
temperature of the liquid and the gingerol activity relieve stomach discomfort, fever, and congestion. [2]
Ginger is believed to be an effective natural remedy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. It is considered to be effective in
lowering cholestorol and reducing the likelihood of type 2 diabetes. [3] However, these claims have not been verified
according to modern science.
As a digestive aid, fever-reducer, expectorant, decongestant, antioxidant, immune-booster, mild painkiller, and
antibacterial agent, ginger has been considered a cure-all by practitioners of traditional and alternative medicine.[4]
Ginger – Scientific Studies

To determine its potential to prevent certain cancers, gingerol–the active component in ginger–has been the focus of
clinical trials. Researchers determined that in cases of ovarian cancer, administration of gingerol contributed to
cancer-cell death. In cases of ovarian cancer, gingerol was found to reduce inflammation and boost immune function.
Researchers have found that Gingerol might protect against colon cancer. [5]
Old Drawing Of Ginger Plant
Ginger
References / more:
[1] Ginger. Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger.
[2] Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of
Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies. 2002. Penguin Putnam: NY.
[3] Peirce, Andrea. The American Pharmaceutical Association practical guide to natural medicines
1999. Stonesong Press, Inc. New York.
[4] Khalsa, Karta Purkh Singh and Michael Tierra. 2008. The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: The Most Complete Guide to
Natural Healing and Health with Traditional Ayurvedic Herbalism. Lotus Press: Twin Lakes, WI.
[5] Peirce, Andrea. The American Pharmaceutical Association practical guide to natural medicines
1999. Stonesong Press, Inc. New York.
Main article researched and created by Kelsey Wambold, © herbs-info.com 2013
BLACK CUMIN SEED
Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) Seed, popularly called Black Seed, is an herb that has traditionally been used for
thousands of years in the Middle East, Far East and Asia as an herbal health aid. Having so many diverse uses, it
has gained the popular approbation "the seed of blessing".
Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) Seed has recently experienced an upsurge in popularity in the United States due to
increasing publicity in magazines and health related media.
What is black seed? The Seed Of Blessing
An annual herbaceous plant, black cumin seed (botanical name is nigella sativa l.), or black seed for short, is
believed to be indigenous to the Mediterranean region but has been cultivated into other parts of the world including
the Arabian peninsula, northern Africa and parts of Asia.
The plant has no relation to the common kitchen herb, cumin. Tiny and hairy, being no more than 3mm in length,
black seed originates from the common fennel flower plant (nigella sativa) of the buttercup (Ranunculaceae) family.
Nigella sativa is sometimes mistakenly confused with the fennel herb plant (Foeniculum vulgare). The plant has finely
divided foliage and pale bluish purple or white flowers. The flowers grow terminally on its branches while the leaves
grow opposite each other in pairs, on either side of the stem. Its lower leaves are small and petioled, and the upper
leaves are long (6-10cm). the stalk of the plant reaches a height of twelve to eighteen inches as its fruit, the black
seed, matures. Nigella sativa is bisexual and forms a fruit capsule which consists of many white triagonal seeds.
Once the fruit capsule has matured, it opens up and the seeds contained within are exposed to the air, becoming
black in color (black seeds). Nigella sativa and its black seed are known by other names, varying between places.
some call it black caraway, habbat al barakah , and habbat sawda , others call it black cumin (kalounji), onion seeds
or even coriander seeds. in English, the nigella sativa plant is commonly referred to as black cumin . Nevertheless,
this is nigella sativa, which has been known and used from ancient times and is also known in Persian as Shonaiz.
History of Black Seed.
Black cumin (nigella sativa) was discovered in Tutankhamen's tomb, implying that it played an important role in
ancient Egyptian practices. Although its exact role in Egyptian culture is not known, we do know that items entombed
with a king were carefully selected to assist him in the afterlife. The earliest written reference to black seed is found in
the book of Isaiah in the old testament. Isaiah contrasts the reaping of black cumin with wheat: for the black cumin is
not threshed with a threshing sledge, nor is a cart wheel rolled over the cumin, but the black cumin is beaten out with
a stick, and the cumin with a rod. (Isaiah 28:25,27 nkjv). Easton's bible dictionary clarifies that the Hebrew word for
black cumin, ketsah, refers to without doubt the nigella sativa, a small annual of the order Ranunculaceae which
grows wild in the dioscoredes, a Greek physician of the 1st century, recorded that black seeds were taken to treat
headaches, nasal congestion, toothache, and intestinal worms. they were also used, he reported, as a diuretic to
promote menstruation and increase milk production. the Muslim scholar al-biruni (973-1048), who composed a
treatise on the early origins of Indian and Chinese drugs, mentions that the black seed is a kind of grain called
alwanak in the sigzi dialect. later, this was confirmed by suhar bakht who explained it to be habb-i-sajzi (viz. sigzi
grains). this reference to black seed as grains points to the seed's possible nutritional use during the tenth and
eleventh centuries. in the Greco Arab/Unani Tibb system of medicine, which originated from Hippocrates, his
contemporary galen and Ibn Sina, black seed has been regarded as a valuable remedy in hepatic and digestive
disorders and has been described as a stimulant in a variety of conditions, ascribed to an imbalance of cold humors.
Ibn Sina (980-1037), most famous for his volumes called the canon of medicine, regarded by many as the most
famous book in the history of medicine, east or west, refers to black seed as the seed that stimulates the body's
energy and helps recovery from fatigue or dispiritedness. black seed is also included in the list of natural drugs of al-
Tibb al-n abawi, and, according to tradition, "hold onto the use of the black seed for in it is healing for all illnesses
except death" (Sahih Bukhari vol 7 bk 71 #592). This prophetic reference in describing black seed as having a
healing for all illnesses is not exaggerated as it at first appears. Recent research has provided evidence that most
illnesses arise because of an imbalanced or dysfunctional immune system which cannot perform its primary function
of defending the body optimally. research also indicates that black seed contains an ability to significantly boost the
human immune system - if taken over time. The prophetic phrase, "hold onto the use of the seed", also emphasizes
consistent usage of the seed. Black seed has been traditionally used in the middle and far east countries for centuries
to treat ailments including bronchial asthma and bronchitis, rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases, to
increase milk production in nursing mothers, to treat digestive disturbances, to support the body's immune system, to
promote digestion and elimination, and to fight parasitic infestation. its oil has been used to treat skin conditions such
as eczema and boils and is used topically to treat cold symptoms. the many uses of black seed has earned for this
ancient herb the Arabic approbation habbatul barakah, meaning the seed of blessing.
Henna (Mehendi) is a Great Healer

Dr. M. Laiq Ahmed Khan
The Henna plant is not only extensively grown throughout India, but cultivated as
well. It is planted as hedges around houses, buildings and sometimes fields. It is two-
meter long when fully grown and emission of a typical fragrance is also noted during
nights. It is cultivated throughout India. For ages. The Mehndi of Faridabad is very
much popular and liked by the users. The different parts of the plant viz. leaves,
stems, flowers and fruits are being used for cosmetic as well as medicinal purposes.
Hazrat Umme Salma (R) narrates: “In the life of Prophet Muhammed (Pbuh), no
injury or thorn piercing was treated on which Henna was not applied.” (Tirmizi,
Sanad-e-Ahmed)
“Whenever somebody came to Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) with complaints of

headache, he directed him to undergo cupping and whosoever complained of pain in
legs, was advised to apply Henna.” (Bukhari, Abu Dawood)
In another narration Henna was prescribed for headache also Hazrat Abu Huraira
narrates: Nabi-e-Akram (Pbuh) said that Jews and Christians did not use Khizab, you
oppose that.
The same verse is narrated by other narrators in Nisai and Tirmizi.
Osman bin Abdullah Ibn Mohib narrates: “My family sent me to Ummul Momineen,
Hazrat Salma (R), with a bowl of water (the narrator of this Hadith, Israil closed his
three fingers and said the bowl was of silver). A few holy hairs of Prophet (Pbuh)
were there in the bowl. If some one fell ill with evil sight or with any other ailment
would send the water in a bowl to Umme-e-Salma. She would dip the plate in it. I
looked into the water and found that the colour of the Prophet’s hair was
red.” (Bukhari)
Jahzma (R) the wife of Bashir Bin Khasasia (R) narrates “I saw Prophet Muhammad
(Pbuh) coming out of the house. He was coming after taking bath, therefore, he was
shaking his hairs. The colour of Henna was visible on his head.” (Tirmizi)
Wasila (R) narrates that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) said “Use Henna, it makes your
head lustrous, cleanses your hearts, increases the sexual vigour and will be witness in
your graves”
Abi Rafai narrates, “I was present before Prophet (Pbuh). Passing his hand over his
head he said that the head of all dyes was Henna which ganeaglow to the face and
increased the sexual vigour.” (Abu Naim)
The scholars of Hadith paid a great attention towards its use keeping in view the
repeated sayings of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh).
Sahaba and Tabayeen like Abu Bakr, Umar, Abu Ubaida, Mohammed Ibnal Hanifa,
Mohammed Ibn Al Sirin used to apply Henna on their hairs.
Mohaddis Abdul Latif Baghdadi says that its red colour is very attractive and its
colour and smell is a nerve stimulant. The fact is well understood in today’s scenario,
from the impact of colour and odour on personality and physiology.
Mohd. Ahmed Zahbi says that there are three essential factors for healing
i.Expulsion of fluids from the wounds

ii. Cessation of production of any more fluids
iii. Formation of healthy flesh (granulation tissue) to fill the gap.
Henna contains all these three factors and possesses very good healing properties. If
Mehndi leaves are soaked in water throughout the night and this decanted water, if
taken in morning for 40 days, is effective in leprosy and heals the wounds.
Hafiz Ibu al Qayyim in the light of his experiences describes it a good healing agent
for burns. Its gargles are beneficial in stomatitis and all ulcers of tongue, cheeks and
lips. Its local application has soothing effects on acute inflammations and hot
abscesses. Henna levels’ extract in oil mixed with natural wax and oil of rose, if
applied locally in conditions of backache, is highly effective.
It is a clinically tested fact that if Mehndi leaves paste is applied on the soles of the
patients of small pox and chicken pox, the eyes remain unaffected with the disease
and besides become dry very soon.
Dry leaves of Henna if kept in clothes, serve the purpose of insect repellant.
If the paste of Henna is applied on nails, the lustre of the nails increases and if applied
on feet and soles, is effective in burning feet syndrome.
If the nails become disfigured after getting fungal infection, it is advisable to use
Henna with vinegar to restore it to normalcy. The paste of Henna is very effective in
Burns and scalds. It heals the boils of scalp if applied with Roghan-e-Zaitoon.
The physicians of Unani Medicine describe it as a good blood purifier. Hakim Ajmal
Khan once used the paste of Henna on the palms of a female patient who was
suffering from Menorrhagia and she got cured. Headache from heat is cured by
inhaling the scent of its flowers.
The oil prepared from olive oil and leaves of Henna is very much effective in
muscular rigidity. If Henna leaves are soaked in a sufficient quantity of water and kept
throughout the night and the decanted water is taken in morning it is effective in
Jaundice and Splenomegaly.

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ISLAMIC MEDICINE & NATURAL HERBAL CURES…

Edited & Compiled By Al Barone

George Sarton wrote in the Introduction to the History of Science:

1. The Material Causes

4. The Variability of the Tumors

6. The Psychic Faculties

7. The Vital Force

9. The Efficient Causes

10. The Formal Causes

11. The Vital Faculties

12. The Final Causes

Thesis I Definition and Scope of Medicine

Thesis III The Temperaments

I The Temperaments (General description)

Physic diarrhea, swollen

A. In relation to beings other than men

iii. external factors "such as race, climate, atmosphere"

iv. in relation to extreme climates

B. In relation to the individual himself

v. "as compared to another person"

vi. comparison of the individual himself

viii. comparison of a member to itself

II The Temperament of the Several Members

1. the breath and "the heart in which it arises"

2. the blood; which is said to be generated from the liver

3. the liver; "which may be looked upon as concentrated blood."

10. the skin of the palms and soles

Then a list is given of coldest members to hottest.[34]

9. the spinal cord

10. the brain

11. the fat

12. the oil of the body

13. the skin

2. the serious humour

7. the spinal cord

8. the breasts and the testicles

10. the liver

11. the spleen

12. the kidneys

13. the muscles

14. the skin

Finally, a list is given in order of dryness[36]

Period Title Name Year of Age

I The Period of Growth Adolescence Up to 30

II The Prime of Life Period of beauty Up to 35 or 40

III Elderly life Period of decline. Senescence. Up to about 60

IV Decrepit Age Senility To the end of life

The period of formation of the teeth. Walking has been

The body shows strength of movement. The teeth are

The period up to the limit of growth of the body (to the

What a Body Fluid is and How Many Kinds There Are

The Four Body Fluids or Humours Proper

The serous humour

The bilious humour

other aspects of medicine by its need for a different methodology".[50]

abated and health maintained."

Simple and compound drugs

Book 3 Special Pathology

Book 4 Special Diseases Involving More Than

Notes and references

HISTORICAL IMAGES: IBN SINA AND HIS CANON OF MEDICINE

December 16, 2012

Compiled by Malik Merchant