There are lots of different types of herbs that can offer any number of health benefits. Here we take a look at some of the “A” herbs to discover what they have to offer you. Get ready to explore whole new herbal territory!
Astralagus:
Have you heard of the herb astralagus? Astralagus is a plant that has been used for medicinal purposes in China for 100’s of years.
It is native to the temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere. It is the root of the plant that is used for healing. There are approximately 2,000 different varieties of astralagus around the world. However the astralagus that is native to Northern China has been studied to the greatest extent.
Astralagus is rich in many substances. This makes it a beneficial herb for human beings. It is rich in amino acids, flavonoids, isoflavones, trace minerals, polysaccharides, saponins and triterpeneglycosides.
Chinese Traditional Medicine (TCM) makes use of astralagus quite a bit. In TCM it is put to use for a variety of health issues. Some of its most common uses include diarrhea, night sweats, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, weakness, edema, high blood pressure and respiratory infections. It is also useful for the common cold, hepatitis, heart attacks and systemic lupus erythematosus. Astralagus is composed of anti-viral properties and is very beneficial at stimulating the immune system to help fight off illnesses such as colds and the flu.
Studies have also pointed to the fact that this herb inhibits the development and spread of cancer cells in various parts of the body.
Alfalfa:
A member of the legume family, alfalfa contains a number of minerals including calcium, copper, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, silicon and zinc. It is also rich in vitamins. In particular alfalfa contains a large percentage of the B vitamins, not to mention, beta-carotene, and vitamins C, E and K. It has also been theorized that this herb is plentiful in vitamin A but research has not proven this conclusively as of yet.
Alfalfa is used as a detoxifying agent for the body. It is also used to alkalize the body. It has also been used throughout history for constipation, ulcers and bad breath. It is beneficial in the treatment of arthritis, cancer, diabetes, anemia, osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and endometriosis.
Throughout history alfalfa was used as hay. It is one of the oldest of all plants to be cultivated. This plant is multi-functional as a selection of its parts can be used to make capsules, infusions and teas. This includes the seeds, the sprouts and the parts that are visible to the human eye that grow above the ground.
Agrimony:
If you have never heard of the herb agrimony then you are not alone. This is not a commonly known herb but it is one worth getting acquainted with. It is a member of the rose family and is a non-toxic astringent. Agrimony has tonic and diuretic properties and is safe for use with all ages, including children. Children respond particularly well to agrimony tea and agrimony capsules.
If the tea is taken between meals it can quell a sick stomach and can help to bring vomiting to an end. It is beneficial for coughs, diarrhea, diabetes, coughs, jaundice and liver problems. It can also be useful for those suffering from bed sores, bleeding and wetting.
Agrimony contains a compound called agrimophol which can eliminate parasites that have attached themselves to the lining of tissues. The presence of this herb increases the production and development of B cells which help to fight off these invaders in the body. In this way agrimony works as an immunostimulant.
It is always wise to talk to your doctor before you start taking any type of herb. Some herbs should not be taken when a person is taking prescription drugs for other health issues.
Becca
Alternative Health for Today 