Herb

glossary

by Luna Rain Botanicals ™

Details for each ingredient used in our formulas, and tips on preparing and using herbs as part of a Radiant Womb Lifestyle.

Glossary of Herbs

All | A B C D E F G H I L M N O P R S T W Y
There are currently 65 Herbs in this directory
A
Acai
Euterpe oleracea
Activated Charcoal
Activated Charcoal

  • Produced from coconut shells by a chemical-free steam activation process

  • Porous and negatively charged, Activated Charcoal attracts and traps toxins in the gut

  • Activated Charcoal cannot be absorbed by the body, so it carries the toxins out of the body through the colon

  • Used for general bowel and blood detox, tooth whitening, poisoning, lowering cholesterol, water filtration, air filtration, skin eruptions, stains, hangovers and gas





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Alfalfa
Medicago sativa



 
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera

  • A famed Indian adaptogen (balances body systems in the direction needed at the moment and nontoxic) that nourishes the nervous system, calming frazzled nerves

  • Shown to improve cognition, memory and concentration

  • Promotes growth of new nerve cells

  • Reduces anxiety and improves base energy levels

  • Anti-inflammatory and Anti-arthritic

  • Anti-tumorigenic (protects body from tumor formations)





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B
Baking Soda
Sodium Bicarbonate

  • Gentle, nontoxic way to support natural blood alkalinity, which support a stronger immune system, less aches, less odor, clear skin, balance digestive secretions, and overall better health

  • Popular with athletes since it helps to neutralize the lactic acid that is created when working out and that causes soreness, allowing for longer workouts with less fatigue

  • Protects bone health by buffering excess acid in the body system, especially kidneys, instead of allowing the body to leech buffering minerals from the bones

Baobab
Adansonia digitata

  • A South African super-fruit, rich in vitamin C (7-10 times higher than oranges) and many other protective nutrients such as flavonoids, phytosterols, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and mineral

  • Antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory, used to treat diarrhea, malaria and microbial infections





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Bitter Orange
Citrus aurantium

  • Rich in antioxidants and bitter components, protects body from environmental and stress induced toxins

  • Help achieve healthy metabolism and weight management

  • Mood enhancer

  • Help balance blood sugar levels

  • Antimicrobial

  • Detox gastrointestinal tract, liver, spleen, pancreas and gall bladder





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Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa

  • 1995 study showed that, in combination with St. John's Wort, is 76% effective in treating hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms

  • Calms nervous system

  • Used by Native Americans for menstrual pain and hormonal balance

  • Anti-inflammatory, helps relieve rheumatic problems

Black Seed Oil
Nigella sativa

  • Historically-famed, highly nutritional medicine from the seed of the Cumin plant

  • Heals down to the DNA level - rich in Thymoquinone it destroys cancer cells and protects healthy cells, promoting new healthy cell growth and generation

  • Protects, strengthens and nourishes entire body and all body systems

  • Improves fertility, protects brain and liver, stimulates immune system, speeds healing

  • Anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, antiviral, antibacterial, effective even against drug resistant strains of bacteria

Bladderwrack
Fucus vesiculosus

  • A superfood rich in vitamins, minerals and a naturally occurring source of iodine, helping to maintain body weight within a normal range and supporting the endocrine system (the collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things)

  • Lowers risk of estrogen-dependent diseases such as endometriosis and ovarian, endometrial, and breast cancers

  • Lessens menstrual bleeding

  • Anti-fungal, antibacterial

  • Helps balance healthy lipid levels

  • Can be used to support skin health and function in anti-aging, for skin burns, radiation skin exposure, and fungal skin infection





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C
Calendula
Calendula officinalis

  • Speeds healing and soothes wounds

  • Anti-inflammatory

  • Soothes skin conditions and injuries, burns, cuts, rashes, dermatitis and varicose veins

  • Soothes central nervous system

  • Cleansing and detoxifying, antimicrobial, liver support

Camu Camu
Myrciaria dubia

  • Nutritionally dense superfruit with the highest levels of Vitamin C of any plant in the world (so far documented in today's available library)!  - as much as sixty times than that of an orange

  • A rich source of potent antioxidants, phytochemicals, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, including iron and beta-carotene

  • Supports overall optimal body health, cleansing, protection, cell renewal, and relief from inflammation and stagnation





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Cardamon
Elettaria cardamomum

  • Perfume-like spice

  • Relieves gas, cramps, indigestion

  • Aphrodisiac

  • Eases tension, anxiety, insomnia

  • Used since ancient times for overall healing

  • Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal


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Chaga
Inonotus obliquus

  • This mushroom of immortality reduces fatigue and inflammation, and increases mental sharpness

  • Selectively inhibits growth and kills cancer cells, while nourishing healthy cells

  • Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant

  • Depending on what is currently needed, it will suppress or stimulate immune system (immunomodulator)

  • Rich in melanin which nourishes pineal gland, nervous system and protects body from radiation





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Chasteberry
Vitex agnus-castus

  • Balances reproductive hormones

  • Nourishes uterus, oaries, cervix, breasts, vaginal canal, pituitary gland to increase fertility, regulate cycle, ease PMS symptoms and calm menopause symptoms

  • Been found to relieve PCOS, fibroid growth, endometriosis when taken for at least 1 month


 



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Chia Seeds
Salvia hispanica

  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, help raise HDL cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol that protects against heart attack and stroke

  • Also high in antioxidants, fiber, iron, and calcium

  • Supports intestinal detox, prevents constipation and promotes regularity for a healthy digestive tract

Chickweed
Stellaria media

  •  high in minerals and vitamins

  • Creates protective barrier on mucous membranes of body (nasal passages, digestive tract, lungs, urinary tract, etc.) and soothes them

  • Cools and moistens inner body, relieving inflammation, arthritis, stagnant heat, fevers and dry, red, itchy, scaly skin conditions - such as eczema or psoriasis

  • Relieves chronic fatigue, anemia and helps recovery from long-term illness or surgery

  • Supports reduction and elimination of breast cysts, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids or lymphadema


 



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Chlorella
Chlorella vulgaris

  • Rich in protein nourish muscles, nerves, brain and connective tissue

  • Balance cholesterol

  • Help balance blood sugar

  • Natural multivitamin and mineral

  • Protects against cancer

  • Strengthens lungs





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Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Cleavers
Galium aparine

  • Encourages lymphatic drainage and detoxification

  • Helps dissolve calcifications and mineral buildups such as kidney stone, gall stones, gout, bone spurs

  • Thomas Bartram writes that the actions of Cleavers include 'lymphatic alterative and detoxifier, diuretic, astringent tonic, non-steroidal anti-inflamatory, anti-obesity, adaptogen, anti-neoplastic. He suggests use for enlarged lymph nodes, especially cervical neck nodes, cystic and nodular changes in the glands, nodular goitre, dry skin disorders, psoriasis etc.





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Cornsilk
Stigma maydis

  • Rich in potassium, awesome for all urinary imbalances such as cystitis

  • Calms inflammation and soothes lining of urinary tract

  • Reduces kidney stone formation

  • Traditional uses include treatment for prostate disorder, and urinary infections, bedwetting and obesity
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6268265/

Cramp Bark
Viburnum opulus
  • Meskwaki Native Americans used for pain and cramps throughout the body

  • Has a specific action on uterus as a muscle relaxant

  • Stimulates full circulation to extremities

  • Relaxes nervous tension and anxiety

  • Contains methyl salicylate, a weak acting precursor to the salicylic acid that is used in aspirin, but much less irritating to the stomach lining




    • Resources:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6684545/
    Cranesbill
    Geranium maculatum

    • High in tannins, is a strong internal and external astringent and antiseptic used by indigenous Americans for many uses from treating wounds, stopping internal bleeding and drying up ulcers

    • Curbs excessive blood loss during menstruation and helps to clear out stagnant tissues and mucus

    D
    Damiana
    Turnera diffusa



      • Traditional Mayan aphrodisiac

      • Restorative to mind, spirit (thymoleptic), sex organs

      • Contains arbutin, a strong urinary antiseptic and a naturally formed derivative of hydroquinone

      • Anti-diabetic







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    Dandelion Leaves
    Taraxacum officinale

    • Rich in vitamins and minerals

    • Removes stagnant heat, water and emotional rage

    • Nourishes kidneys and liver

    • Encourages whole body detox

    • Helps to break up stones

    Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)
    Hylocereus undatus

    • Traditionally used by Mayans as a hypoglycemic, diuretic and  wound healing

    • Rich in antioxidants known to prevent diabetes and cancer, neutralize toxic substances such as heavy metals and reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure





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    E
    Elderberry
    Sambucus nigra

    • Famed for nourishing and protecting respiratory system

    • Shown to reduce symptoms and duration of influenza, colds and sinusitis, with antiviral activity

    • High in vitamin C, fiber, and several antioxidants including phenolic acids, flavonols, anthocyanins

    • Mood enhancer

    • Used in ancient Kemet for its UV-protecting (SPF 10) qualities and to heal burns





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    F
    Fennel Seed
    Foeniculum vulgare

    • Supports breast milk production

    • Rich in nutrients and volatile oils that cleanse and nourish the digestive, endocrine (hormones), reproductive, and respiratory systems

    • Very widely used in many traditions for many ailments - antimicrobial, helps dissolve tumors, eases cramps, anti-inflammatory, helps memory, protects DNA





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    Fenugreek
    Trigonella foenum-graecum

    • Used in ancient Kemet for childbirth and many gynecologycal issues, including infections and inflammations of the uterus, vagina and vulva

    • Soothes stomach

    • Increase milk production

    • Balances blood sugar

    • Womb detox





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    Flax Seeds
    Linum usitatissimum

    • Very high in essential fatty acids for heart, brain, nerves and all soft tissue

    • Great for chronic inflammation

    • Coats and soothes entire alimentary canal

    • Prevents bacterial from lodging onto urinary tract

    • Soothes and coats kidney preventing infection and heat

    • Excellent fiber to clear constipation as it does not need lots of extra water (like psyllium does), nor does it cause cramping or diarrhea

    • Found to be cancer preventive - prevents harmful action of estradiol (a culprit of many cancers)





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    G
    German Chamomile
    Matricaria chamomilla

    • Relief from nervousness and irritability

    • Safe for all ages

    • Helps with colic, digestion, acid stomach, ulcers, hernias

    • Eases menstrual pain

    Ginger
    Zingiber officinale

    • Stimulates circulation, delivering nutrients and medicines to cells

    • Soothes indigestion, gas, colic, morning sickness, motion sickness

    • Antiseptic

    • Relieves exercise-induced muscle pain and inflammation





    Resources:

    • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Zingiber+officinale+pregnancy&filter=simsearch2.ffrft&sort=pubdate

    • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32306991/

    H
    Hops
    Humulus lupulus

    • Relaxant and digestive aid

    • Relaxes smooth muscle

    • Increases breast milk production

    • Shown to inhibit liver cancer cell growth

    • Aphrodisiac

    • Antibacterial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory





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    Hydrangea Root
    Hydrangea arborescens

    • Native American traditional medicine for genito-urinary system

    • Cleanses the urinary tract, promotes prostate comfort, and supports healthy kidney and bladder function

    • Removes excess salt accumulation in body tissues, helps dissolve calcium stones in kidney and bladder

    • Mineral-rich diuretic and blood cleanser

    I
    Iceland Moss
    Cetraria islandica

    • Soothes, coats and protects the delicate tissues of the respiratory and bronchial passages and the gastrointestinal tract

    • Natural iodine content supports thyroid health

    • European folk medicine as a cancer treatment

    • Strongly antibiotic and protects mucous membranes by forming a protective film

    • Very nutritious

    • Used in the treatment of boils, vaginal discharges





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    Irish Moss
    Chrondus crispus

    • A superfood seaweed, rich in bioactive compounds (such as proteins, peptides, amino acids, lipids, fibers, pigments, polyphenols, and polysaccharides) with a wide range of health-promoting activities, such as antitumor, antiviral, anticancer

    • Naturally contains Vitamins A, E, F and K, calcium, potassium, sulfur, and iodine, which is especially important for healthy thyroid functioning

    • Rich in potassium chloride, can clear congestion and mucous, and holds anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties

    • Protects and rebuilds nervous system

    • A nourishing food for invalids, helpful to boost the body when recovering from a serious illness, due to its high content of important nutrients (it said to contain 15 of the 18 elements composing the human body)

    • Contains amino acids essential for protein and collagen synthesis, cell growth and metabolism

    • For prevention and improvement of skin aging, skin protection in extreme conditions such as cold and dry climates, pollution, and air conditioning, calms eczema, psoriasis

    • Aids wound healing





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    L
    Lion's Mane
    Hericium erinaceus

    • Mushroom popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine for enhancing cognitive brain function

    • Contains Hericenones and erinacines which induce NGF synthesis - (nerve growth factor) a neuropeptide that helps maintain neurons to help your brain process and transmit information

    • Increases memory and concentration

    • Increases energy levels, no jitters, no crash, no addiction - super safe

    • Speeds healing from nervous system injuries

    • Help heal gastro-intestinal ulcers - antibacterial





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    M
    Maca
    Lepidium meyenii

    • Indigenous South American medicine and food

    • Super nutritious, high in many important vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber, energizing

    • Fertility-enhancer, balances sexual dysfunctions

    • As an adaptogen, Maca balances sex hormones whether they be in excess or in deficiency

    • Protects against and helps osteoporosis and other bone deficiencies

    • Nourishes sex organs

    • Aids in memory and learning

    • Protects skin against ultraviolet radiation





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    Mangosteen
    Garcinia mangostana

    • Antioxidant rich superfood that protects against free radicals and heals damaged cells

    • Tropical fruit used to treat skin infections and diarrhea also has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-microbial, and anti-malarial properties





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    Maqui Berry
    Aristotelia chilensis

    • Rich in anthocyanin, a strong antioxidant shown to impact overall health

    • Supports overall optimal body health, cleansing, protection, cell renewal, and relief from inflammation and stagnation

    • Protect heart and blood vessels





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    Marshmallow
    Althaea officinalis 

    • Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-yeast

    • Anti-inflammatory, eases aches and cramps

    • Soothes and coats membranes of body especially respiratory, digestive and urinary tract

    • Stimulates and nourishes immune system

    Motherwort
    Leonurus cardiaca

    • Supports heart health

    • Analgesic, eases cramps

    • Regulates menstrual cycle

    • Relieves anxiety

    • Restores over-extended, stretched, swollen ligaments and tendons

    • Restores a tired over-worked spirit





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    Mugwort
    Artemisia vulgaris

    • Native American medicine used for many women's issues such as premenstrual syndrome, heavy bleeding, irregular period; also to ease hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms

    • Anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral

    • Promotes intestinal cleansing and digestive discomfort

    Mullein
    Verbascum thapsus

    • Nourishes and clears lymphatic system

    • Popular for easing respiratory ailments

    • Anti-inflammatory, soothes aches

    • Antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal

    • Breaks up and inhibits formation of tumors

    • Stimulates immune system

    N
    Nettle Root
    Urtica dioica

    • Anti-inflammatory, assists with joint and muscle pain

    • Supports healthy urinary function, helps clear lower urinary tract infections

    • Rich in minerals

    • Eases allergies


     



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    Noni
    Morinda citrifolia

    • A superfruit from the South Pacific

    • Laboratory studies show Noni to have antioxidant, immune-stimulating, and tumor-fighting properties

    • Antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, antitumor

    • Relieves pain, and swelling, anti-inflammatory

    • Balances blood pressure

    • Reduces total cholesterol and triglyceride levels

    • Slows absorption of simple sugars from gut, helping to balance blood sugar

    • Treat parasitic infections





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    O
    Oatstraw
    Avena sativa 


    • Rich in bio-active aminos, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals

    • Strengthens the nervous system and increases blood flow to the brain to relieve stress, calm emotions, reduce depression, support clear thinking and for restful seep

    • Aids digestion and stabilizes blood sugar

    • Reduces inflammation

    • Encourages milk flow




      • Resources:
    Oregon Grape
    Mahonia aquifolium



      • Rich in antibacterial alkaloids, used as a blood system cleanser and strengthener, antiviral, antimicrobial

      • Nourishes liver and gall bladder to improve digestion and skin issues

      • Supports elevated mood




    Resources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6040276/
    P
    Passionflower
    Passiflora incarnata



      • Tranquilizing, soothes rage and panic

      • Eases muscles spasms and convulsions

      • Gently calms high blood pressure

      • Non-addictive

      • Eases menstrual cramps







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    Pau D'Arco
    Tabebuia impetiginosa

    • Powerful, indigenous cure-all, native to tropical Americas

    • Anti-fungal (chronic candida, athlete's foot, other fungi) and antimicrobial

    • Dissolves Tumors

    • Soothes inflammation

    • Stimulates immune system


    Resources:
    Tabebuia impetiginosa: A Comprehensive Review on Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Immunopharmacological Properties
    R
    Red Clover
    Trifolium pratense

    • Super rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants

    • Balances vaginal moisture

    • Can unblock fallopian tubes encouraging fertility and cycle regulation

    • Used for deep understanding, inner clarity, letting go & forgiveness





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    Red Raspberry Leaves
    Rubus idaeus

    • Rich in calcium and minerals needed for proper smooth muscle (uterus) function

    • Prepares womb for carrying and birthing

    • Nourish nervous system

    • Astringent and anti-inflammatory





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    Reishi
    Ganoderma lucidum

    • Popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine, coined the Mushroom of Immortality

    • Modern studies show that Reishi helps dissolve tumors, kills cancer cells and stimulates the immune system

    • Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Antiviral

    • Helps modulate blood glucose levels

    • Heals gastric ulcers, protects liver





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    Rose Buds and Petals
    Rosa centifolia







    • Queen of plants for feminine nourishment and balancing hormones

    • Stimulates immune system, anti-bacterial

    • Tone & tighten tissues, anti-inflammatory

    • Eases painful periods

    • Heals wounds

    • Aphrodisiac that removes stuck emotions





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    S
    Shepherd's Purse
    Capsella bursa-pastoris

    • Rich in Vitamin K, stops heavy bleeding especially from fibroids and endometriosis

    • Eases cramps of the smooth muscle (such as uterus and intestines)

    • Relieves urinary and bladder inflammation and bleeding infections

    • Arrests hemorrhaging after childbirth and internal bleeding of the lungs and colon

    • Heals open wounds and eases painful menstrual periods





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    Slippery Elm
    Ulmus rubra

    • Lubricates and protects mucous membranes and all soft tissues of the body, including vaginal canal

    • Relieves constipation without cramps or diarrhea

    • Super nutritious, Native Americans would often use as baby food and for thrush

    • Draws out toxins from soft tissue

    Spearmint
    Mentha spicata

    • Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, eases swelling, pain and cramps

    • Antimicrobial, help clear infections

    • Calms nerves

    • Helps digestion, calms nausea





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    Spirulina



    Arthrospira platensis


    • Rich in protein for healthy muscle, brain and nerve function

    • Nourish liver and blood, rich in chlorophyll

    • Antimicrobial

    • Provides clean, steady energy





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    St. John's Wort
    Hypericum perforatum

    • Alleviates depression and anxiety, mood relief

    • Helps to maintain positivity and steady, easy energy

    • Eases irritation and frustration during PMS and Menopause

    • Antiviral





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    Star Anise
    T
    Turkey Tail Mushroom
    Trametes versicolor

    • Medicinal mushrooms known for its powerful immunity activators

    • Also rich in beta glucans, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, antioxidants, amino acids, proteins, peptides, lectins, polyphenols, flavonoids, selenium compounds and other myconturients

    • Contains polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK) which studies confirm inhibit the growth of cancer cells

    • Supports gut health





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    W
    Wild Yam Root
    Dioscorea villosa

    • Contains phytosteroid diosgenin which act much like the body's own steroids and can balance hormones to ease premenstrual syndrome (PMS), hot flashes, menstrual cramps, vaginal dryness, low libido, and osteoporosis (although many say the diosgenin can only be transformed into natural progesterone in the lab, many traditional healers see that the body is 'inspired' to hormonally balance in the presence of this natural phytosteroid)

    • Encourages fertility by optimizing estrogen levels and improving quality and quantity of cervical mucus

    • Anti-inflammatory

    Witch Hazel Leaf
    Hamamelis virginiana

    • Classic astringent and anti-inflammatory herb

    • Tones and strengthens blood vessels, veins, mucous membranes, and skin

    • Mild antibacterial

    Y
    Yarrow
    Achillea millefolium

    • Astringent that tones body tissues internally and externally, curbs excessive bleeding and heals wounds

    • Promotes detoxification

    • Strengthens and tightens tissues

    • Aids in regulation of menstrual flow

    • Antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory, aids muscles of the uterus to work smoothly without spasm and/or cramping

    • Relieves inflammation and congestion of the uterus, and stimulates proper circulation to the reproductive organs

    • Dissolves mucous and tumor formations

    • Supports immune system, relieves digestive complaints, soothes the skin

    Yellow Dock
    Rumex crispus

    Rumex crispus

    • Blood cleanser and strengthener - rich in iron and antioxidants

    • Promotes bile flow and general intestinal health and flow

    • Helps clear skin conditions such as urticaria (hives), psoriasis, eczema, acne, itchy hemorrhoids

    I believe that for every illness or ailment known to man, that God has a plant out here that will heal it. We just need to keep discovering the properties for natural healing.

    Vannoy Gentles