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Withania somniferaAtropa belladonna Brugmansia aurea Brugmansia suaveolens Brugmansia versicolor Brunfelsia pauciflora var. calycina Brunfelsia unidentifed Capsicum chinense Capsicum gemnifolium Capsicum pubescens Cestrum alternifolium Cestrum nocturnum Cyphomandra betacea Iochroma unidentified Lycianthes unidentified Lycium carolinianum Nicotiana glauca Solandra longiflora Solandra maxima Solanum asarifolium Solanum auriculatum Solanum jasminoides Solanum quitoense Solanum seaforthianum Solanum wendlandii Streptosolen jamesonii Withania somnifera Contact:=Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Conservatory & Gardens 75 North Eagleville Rd., Unit 3043 Storrs, CT 06269-3043 Office: (860) 486-0809 Greenhouse: (860) 486-4052 Fax: (860) 486-6364SEARCH THESE RESOURCES ON UNIVERSITY SITE
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an altogether healing relaxing plantTumors,psorissis,smallpox,ringworm,scabies,cictitis,debility,lumbago,candida,fungicide,andi anthrax sedative,nervine,rhematism,tumors--Steeped in warm castor oil and applied to carbunkle,swillings,-natives used leaves for colds,enama for imfants,roots fo embola,-contains withanolide C28 H35 O6 and somnitol C33 H44 O5
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Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal
General information:
Query NCU-3e
Common Name:
Family: Solanaceae Juss.
Country of Origin: Australia, E. Asia, Africa.
Habitat: Open places, disturbed areas etc. shruA stony places.OTHER LIST LOCATIONS,
Distributional range:
Native:
Africa: Algeria; Angola; Botswana; Cape Verde; Chad; Egypt; Eritrea; Ethiopia; Kenya;
Lesotho; Liberia; Libya; Malawi; Mali; Mauritius; Morocco; Namibia; Nigeria; Somalia;
South Africa - Cape Province, Natal, Orange Free State, Transvaal; Spain - Canary Islands;
Sudan; Tanzania; Tunisia; Uganda; Zimbabwe
Asia-Temperate: Afghanistan; Arabia; Iran [s.]; Iraq; Israel; Jordan; Lebanon; Syria; Turkey
Asia-Tropical: India; Pakistan; Sri Lanka
Europe: Greece [incl. Crete]; Italy - Sardinia, Sicily; Spain [incl. Baleares]
Description: Additional Common Names: Ajagandha,
Kanaje Hindi, Samm Al Ferakh
USES COMMON TO VARIOUS SOCIETIES,
Abortifacient; Adaptogen; Antibiotic; Aphrodisiac; Astringent; Deobstruent; Diuretic;
Narcotic; Sedative; Tonic.
Ashwagandha is one of the most widespread tranquilisers used in India, where it holds a
position of importance similar to ginseng in China[238]. It acts mainly on the reproductive and
nervous systems, having a rejunative effect on the body, and is used to improve vitality and aid
recovery after chronic illness[238, 254]. The plant is little known in the West[192].
The whole plant, but especially the leaves and the root bark, are abortifacient, adaptogen,
antibiotic, aphrodisiac, deobstruent, diuretic, narcotic, strongly sedative and tonic[169, 192,
238, 240]. Internally, it is used to tone the uterus after a miscarriage and also in treating
post-partum difficulties[192]. It is also used to treat nervous exhaustion, debility, insomnia,
wasting diseases, failure to thrive in children, impotence, infertility, multiple sclerosis etc[238].
Externally it has been applied as a poultice to boils, swellings and other painful parts[192, 240].
The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. Some caution is advised in the
use of this plant since it is toxic[K].
The fruit is diuretic[240].
The seed is diuretic and hypnotic[240].
Other Uses
Repellent; Soap.
The fruit is rich in saponins and can be used as a soap substitute[169, 192].
The leaves are an insect repellent[169].
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Coleus Forskohlii Herb Extract
This "power" herb has an active ingredient in it called forskolin. It has been used in ayruvedic medicine for many years. Forskolin's basic mechanism of action is that it increases the amount of cyclic AMP (adenosine monophosphate) in cells by activating an enzyme called adenylate cyclase. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) is one of the most important secondary messengers in the cell. It is considered to be one of the most important cell regulating compounds.
Under normal circumstances, cAMP forms by adenylate cyclase activation due to hormonal stimulation at the cell receptor site. However, forskolin seems to bypass this reaction and allows for an increase in intracellular cAMP to occur. Why is it important to increase cAMP levels? Well, there are several benefits of this to athletes including relaxation of the arteries and smooth muscles, lowering blood pressure, enhanced insulin secretion (which can help drive carbohydrates and protein into muscle cells for energy and recovery), increased thyroid hormone function (which can help enhance metabolic rate), and significantly increase lipolysis (fat burning). Forskolin also seems to benefit other cellular enzymes as well.
The breakdown of fat for fuel (lipolysis) is actually regulated by cAMP. Forskolin has been shown to not only enhance lipolysis but it may also inhibit fat storage from occurring. This is very good news for individuals trying to lose bodyfat and get lean. Another way that forskolin may allow for fat loss to occur is by stimulating thyroid hormone production and release. Thyroid hormone controls metabolism and can enhance metabolic rate, which may translate into more fat loss.
One of the overlooked benefits of forskolin includes its stimulation of digestive enzymes, which can allow individuals to digest and assimilate their food better. It has been shown to increase nutrient absorption in the small intestine.
Forskolin has been shown to be safe and effective and has a great amount of potential as a sports supplement. As with most dietary supplements, more human research is needed but the future looks bright for this compound.
PRODUCT COLEUS FORSKOHLII EXTRACT POWDER 20%
BOTANICAL NAME Coleus Forskohli
PLANT PART USED Roots
DESCRIPTION Dark Brown colour Powder with Odour Characteristic
BULK DENSITY (TAPPED) 0.68 g/ml
LOSS ON DRYING 2.00%
PARTICLE SIZE 100% through 40 Mesh
IDENTIFICATION Positive for Forskolin by HPLC
ASSAY
For Forskolin by HPLC (On 'AS IS' Basis) Above 20%
MICRO BIOLOGICAL
TOTAL PLATE COUNT 1000 CFU/GM
YEAST & MOULD 100 CFU/GM
SALMONELLA & E.COLI Negative
HEAVY METALS Nil
Coleus Forskohlii Herb Extract is drived from roots from
Coleus Forskohlii.
Coleus is used in India folk medicines and is a traditional
digestive remedy. Currently the plant is extensively cultivated
is Southern India. Forskohlii helps to lower blood pressure,
dilates the blood vessels. It is concerted to be a good Heart tonic.
Here we present a list of our main Herbal Extracts only. If you have interest in any other Herbal Extracts please contact us.
Name Source of Extract Standardised For Intended Use
Aloe Vera Herb 3% Aloein Radio-protective, Moisturizer, Sun screen
Allium Sativum (Garlic) Fruit 1% Allicin Promotes skin healing
Azadirachta Indica (Neem Seed) Seeds of Neem growing wild throughout India 3% Bitters Antifungal, Bitter tonic, Blood Purifier
Adhatoda Vasica Leaf Leaves of plant found throughout norther plain & Himalayas 1% Alkaloids Expectorant antispasmodic
Andrographis Panniculata Whole Herb found throughout India, sometimes cultivated 10%, 20% & 50% Androgrphloid by HPLC Antipyretic alternative hepato protective
Asparagus racemosus (Satawari) Roots of plant found throughout tropical & sub tropical India Saponin NLT 30% w/w Aphrodisiac
Atropa Belladonna Root Plant found in Kashmir, sometimes cultivated 1.5% Alkaloid
Bacopa Monnieri Herb The small plant cultivated all over India, found in abundance in wild 10%, 20% & 50% Bacosides by HPLC Improving brain function & reducing stress
Boswellia Serrata The gum of the Boswellia serrata tree growing wild in the deserts of India 60%, 70% & 90% Boswellic acids by non aqueous titration Relieving joint pain. Anti-inflammatory
Centella Asiatica Herb (Gotu Kola) The tiny plant of Centella asiatica growing in Southern India 10%, 20% & 50% Triterpenoid Improving brain function
Cassia Angustifolia Leaves Leaves of cassia Angustifolia being cultivated in South of India 10%, 20% & 45% & 60% Sennosides A+B Laxative
Commiphora Mukul The gum of the Commiphora mukul tree growing wild in the deserts of North Western India 3% & 15& Guggul Sterones by HPLC Cholestrol lowering and Energy giving
Emblica Officinalis Fruit of tree growing wild in Northern & Central India 25% Tannins Tonic, Astringent carminative, cooling
Garcinia Cambogia Fruit The dried fruit collected from the forests of Southern India & South-East Asia Calcium Salts with 50, 60 or 65%Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) Potassium salts(water soluble) upto 50% HCA.
Combined Ca/K salts(water soluble) with 60% HCA
Magnesium salt (water soluble) Upto 75% HCA. All tests by HPLC Weight management and anti-obesity
Green Tea Vastly Cultivated 50% & 60% Polyphenols
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Mulethi) Roots of plant found in desert parts of India. Roots generally imported for extraction NLT 20% Glycyrrhizinic acid Expectorant
Guava Leaf Plant cultivated throughout India for fruit 15% Tannins
Gymnema Sylvestre The leaves of the climbing plant found in the forests of India 25%, 50% & 75% Glymnemic acids by Gravimetry Management of Blood Sugar levels and promoting healthy pancreas
Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower/Leaves of creper extensively cultivated, found in wild also throughout India 30% HCA by HPLC Shampoo's, Hair Care
Hypericum Perforatum
(St. John's Wort Extract) The top portion of the bush growing wild in Eastern Europe and South America 0.3% Hypericin by HPLC Anti-depressant
Mango Leaf Extract The leaves of Mangifera indica growing all over Southern India 5%, 10% & 80% Mangiferin by HPLC Anti-virat
Mappia Foetida
Momordica Charantia Fruit Fruit of creper cultivated throughout india 6% Bitters Good for Diobetic
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit(Noni) Fruit of tree cultivated throughout India 15% Morindin Immuno-Modulator
Mucuna Pruriens Seeds of plant found wild in cntral India 20% L-Dopa Tonic in parkinson disease
Nigella Sativa Seeds 3% Bitters & 15% Saponin
Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) Leaves of Holy Basil cultivated monthly in North India Tannins NLT 4% w/w For Cough & Cold
Phyllanthus Niruri 2% Bitters Liver Tonic
Piper Nigrum The dried fruits of Piper Nigrun 95% Piperine by HPLC Known to display CNS depressant & analgesic activity, anti-pyretic effects. Is prescribed for dyspepsia, flatulence and diarrhoea
Salacia Reticulata 8% Glycosides
Spirulina Powder 60% Protein Food Supplement, Rich in proteins
Sida Cordifolia 6% Alkaloid
Strychnos 6% Alkaloid Bitter Tonic
Tamarindus Indica Fruit Fruit of tree found wild throughout India Brix 65 Antioxidant, Citric
Terminalia Arjuna 1% Arjunic Acid
Terminalia belerica Extract Tannins NLT -15% w/w Functions
Terminalia chebula Extract
Tribulus Terrestris Fruit The dried aerial parts of the ground creeper, growing wild all over India 20%, 40% & 60% Steroidal Saponins by Gravimetry Body building and Aphrodisiac
Triphla 25% Tannins Normalize Gl tract
Turmeric Root Roots & Plant cultivated & used as spice 95% Curcumin Antibiotic, Natural yellow colour
Valerian Wallichi Root The roots & rootlets of the plant growing wild in Northern India 0.8% Valerenic acids by HPLC Sleep inducing and anti-spasmolytic
Withania Somnifera Root The root of the plant Withania Somnifera also called Indian Ginseng cultivated throughout India 2% Alkaloids and 3% Withanolides both by Gravimetry Promoting vigor & vitality and increasing endurance
Zingiber Officinale Tuber (Ginger) The dried rhizomes of Zingiber Officinale cultivated in the warmer regions of South India 5% Gingerols by HPLC Digestive and for relieving motion sickness, nausea and common cold
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sTIL MORE HEALTH DATA ONWithania somnifera
(Ashwagandha)
Therapeutic Actions:
Anemia with emaciation
Anti-inflammatory
Antitumor activity, in animal studies
Ayurvedic superior rejuvenative herb for the muscles, bone marrow and semen
Catalyzes the anabolic processes of the body
Free-radical scavenging activity
Hypotensive
Immunomodulating
Increases phagocytosis and intracellular killing of peritoneal macrophages
Inhibits aging
Nervous exhaustion
Nurtures and clarifies the mind promoting dreamless sleep
Promotes the healing of tissue
Regenerates the hormonal system
Sedative
Stimulates the immune system
Stress-induced health conditions
Clinical Indications:
Aging prevention
Alzheimer's
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Hypertension
Impotence due to aging or stress
Insomnia
Memory loss
Multiple sclerosis
Anemia
Aspergillus infection
Chronic inflammation
Cognitive function deficits
Depressed white blood cell count due to cytotoxic drugs
Glandular swelling
Infertility
Problems of old age
Contraindications:
Pregnancy
Drug/Nutrient Interaction:
No interactions have been reported
Chemical Constituents:
Ashwagandholine, an alkaloid
Withaferin A, has significant antitumor and radiosensitizing effects in experimental tumors
of animals in vivo, without any noticeable systemic toxicity
Withanolides, steroidal compounds whose action and appearance resemble the active
constituents of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) known as ginsenosides
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Ashwagandha
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Education
Amalaki, Ashvagandha, Bala, Bhringaraja, Chandana, Gokshura, Haritaki, Mandukaparni, Vacha, Vibhitaka
Ashvagandha, 'smelling like a horse'
Botanical Name: Withania somnifera, Solanaceae
Common Name: Asgandh (H), Amukkira (T), Winter Cherry (E)
Part Used: root, leaves, fruit
Dravyguna: root.
�Rasa: tikta, kashaya
�Vipaka: katu
�Virya: ushna
�Karma: Vatapittahara, Kaphakopa, balyam, vajikarana, tonic, adaptogen, relaxing nervine, post-partum tonic, immunomodulant, astringent, galactagogue, diuretic, thermogenic (Dash 1991, 59; Dash and Junius 1983, 155; Frawley and Lad 1986, 160; Varier 1996, 409)
Indications:
�Root: asthma, bronchitis, edema, leucoderma, anorexia, consumption, asthenia, anemia, exhaustion, aging, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, neurasthenia, infertility, impotence, repeated miscarriage, paralysis, memory loss, multiple sclerosis, immune-dysfunction, carcinoma, rheumatism, arthritis, lumbago (Dash 1991 59; Dash and Junius 1987, 155; Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775-76; Frawley and Lad 1986, 160; Nadkarni 1976, 1293-94; Varier 1996, 409)
�Leaves: used internally for fever and hemorrhoids; externally for wounds, hemorrhoids, tumors, tuberculous glands, anthrax pustules, syphylitic sores, erysipelas, and in ophthalmitis (Kirtikar and Basu 1993 1775-76; Varier 1996, 409)
�Fruit: used externally in ringworm (Kirtikar and Basu 1993 1775-76)
Contraindications: Caution should be used with clients on anticonvulsants, barbituates and benzodiazepines. Ashvagandha is traditionally avoided in lymphatic congestion, during colds and flu, or symptoms of ama (Frawley and Lad 1986, 160).
Toxicity: None reported (Aphale et al 1998).
Dosage: root
�Churna: 3 5 g b.i.d. - t.i.d.
�Kashaya: 100 mL t.i.d.
�Tincture: fresh root, 95%, 1:2; dried root, 50%, 1:4; 1 10 mL t.i.d.
Medical research:
�Adaptogen: The traditional use of Ashvagandha as a rasayana has been validated by scientific investigation. Wistar rats treated with an extract of Withania somnifera showed better stress tolerance in cold water swimming tests (Archana and Namasivayam 1999).
�Antiinflammatory: A methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Withania somnifera had antiinflammatory activities comparable to that of hydrocortisone sodium succinate (al-Hindawi et al 1992). An 80% ethanolic extract of Withania somnifera displayed significant antiinflammatory activity on carrageenan-induced paw edema (al-Hindawi 1989).
�Antioxidant: An aqueous suspension of root extract of Ashvagandha prevented the rise of experimentally induced lipid peroxidation in rabbits and mice (Dhuley 1998a). An extract of Withania somnifera, consisting of equimolar concentrations of sitoindosides VII-X and withaferin A, induced an increase in the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in rat brain, consistent with other research that reports an antioxidant, immunomodulant and antiinflammatory activity (Bhattacharya et al 1997).
�Cancer: The administration of Ashvagandha rasayana (an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation containing Ashvagandha) significantly reduced the lung tumor nodule formation by 55.6% in experimental animals (Menon et al. 1997). An alcoholic extract of the dried roots as well as withaferin A isolated from the extract showed significant antitumor and radiosensitizing effects in experimental tumors in Chinese hamster cells, without any noticeable systemic toxicity (Devi 1996). The steroidal lactone withaferin A displayed significant antitumor and radiosensitizing effects, inhibiting tumor growth and increasing survival in Swiss mice inoculated with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (Devi et al 1995; Sharad et al 1996). The administration of an extract of Withania somnifera was found to significantly reduce leucopenia induced by cyclophosphamide treated experimental animals, indicating its usefulness in cancer therapy (Davis and Kuttan 1998). The administration of methanolic extract of Ashvagandha was found to significantly increase the WBC count in normal Balb/c mice and reduce leucopenia induced by a sublethal dose of gamma radiation. Withania increased bone marrow cellularity and normalised the ratio of normochromatic erythrocytes and polychromatic erythrocytes. This observed activity was thought to be due to stem cell proliferation (Kuttan 1996).
�Central Nervous system: Isolated constituents of Withania somnifera (sitoindosides VII-X and withaferin-A) increased cortical muscarinic acetylcholine receptor capacity, partly explaining the cognition-enhancing and memory-improving effects traditionally attributed to Ashvagandha (Schliebs et al 1997). A methanolic extract of Withania somnifera inhibited the specific binding of [3H]GABA and [35S]TBPS, and enhanced the binding of [3H]flunitrazepam to their putative receptor sites, suggesting a GABA-mimetic activity (Mehta et al 1991). A commercial root extract of Withania somnifera used repeatedly over 9 days attenuated the development of tolerance to the analgesic effect of morphine and suppressed morphine-withdrawal jumps (Kulkarni and Ninan 1997).
�Immunity: Myelosuppressed mice treated with an extract of Ashvagandha displayed a significant increase in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, platelet count and body weight as compared to controls, as well as increased hemolytic antibody responses towards human erythrocytes (Ziauddin et al 1996). Researchers at the Amala Cancer Research Centre in Kerala, India, found that the administration of an extract from the powdered root of Withania somnifera enhanced the levels of interferon gamma, interleukin-2 and granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor in normal and cyclophosphamide-treated mice, suggesting an immunopotentiating and myeloprotective effect (Davis and Kuttan 1999). Mice infected intravenously with Aspergillus fumigatus and treated for 7 consecutive days with an oral preparation of an extract of Withania somnifera at a dose of 100mg/kg displayed increased phagocytic activity and prolonged survival time (Dhuley 1998). The antifungal activity of Withania has been confirmed elsewhere, attributed to the withanolides (Choudhary et al 1995).
�Musculo-skeletal: A herbomineral formulation containing roots of Withania somnifera, the stem of Boswellia serrata, rhizomes of Curcuma longa and a zinc complex (Articulin-F), was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, cross-over study in clients with osteoarthritis. The results produced a significant drop in severity of pain and disability, although radiological assessment did not show any significant changes. Sideeffects were minimal and did not necessitate the withdrawal of treatment. (Kulkarni et al 1991)
Comments: Ashvagandha is the Indian equivalent to Ginseng (Panax ginseng)., but unlike Ginseng, Ashvagandha has a sedative rather than stimulant action on the central nervous system, making it a superior medicine for exhaustion with nervous irritability. A rejuvenating preparation can be made by mixing Ashvagandha with 10-15% Pippali, taken with one half part ghrita and 1 part honey on an empty stomach, morning and evening. Ashvagandha is a useful nervine, taken before bed to relax and nourish the body in deficiency diseases, but is only seen to be efficacious when taken on a sustained basis- it is not a sufficient sedative to treat acute insomnia. For poor memory, lack of concentration and in the treatment of ADD/ADHD Ashvagandha may be used in equal proportions with Brahmi and Ling zhi (Ganoderma lucidum). Ashvagandha is widely used in any debility, emaciation or consumptive condition, in both adults and children (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775; Nadkarni 1976, 1294).
As its name �smelling like a horse?suggests, Ashvagandha is an important vajikarana rasayana, indicating the sexual potency of a stallion, and is used in the treatment of infertility, impotence and �seminal depletion?(Nadkarni 1976, 1293). When mixed with equal parts Shatavari (Asparagus racemosa), it is an appropriate treatment for female infertility and frigidity and is useful in threatened miscarriage.
For poor eyesight Ashvagandha powder is mixed with equal proportions of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra root) powder and the fresh juice of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis fruit) (Nadkarni, 1294). An infusion of the leaves may be used in in the treatment of ophthalmia (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1776).
In the form of Narayana taila, Ashvagandha may be taken internally, 3 10 gtt. b.i.d. for consumption and emaciation in children, and as an enema for anal fistula (Nadkarni 1976, 1294). Narayana taila may also be taken as nasya (2-3 gtt.) in cases of hearing loss and in abhyanga in cases of paralysis, tetanus, rheumatism and lumbago (Nadkarni 1976, 1294).
Nadkarni mentions that Ashvagandha is used in the treatment of antiinflammatory joint disease (1976, 1293), but as Lad and Frawley suggest, Ashvagandha can facilitate the production of ama (1986, 160), and thus an eliminative regimen is best utilized prior to using this botanical. Likewise, Ashvagandha is an appropriate remedy in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775-6), but should be used concurrently with dravyas that have a dipana-pacana property to avoid the production of ama.
Varrier mentions that a paste made of the roots and bruised leaves may be applied to carbuncles, ulcers and painful swellings (1996, 409).
References:
al-Hindawi, M.K., I.H. Al-Deen, M.H. Nabi, and M.H. Ismail. 1989. Anti-inflammatory activity of some Iraqi plants using intact rats. J Ethnopharmacol. Sep; 26(2):163-8
Aphale A.A., A.D. Chhibba, N.R. Kumbhakarna, M. Mateenuddin and S.H. Dahat. 1998. Subacute toxicity study of the combination of ginseng (Panax ginseng) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in rats: a safety assessment. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol Apr; 42(2):299-302
Archana, R. and A. Namasivayam. 1999. Antistressor effect of Withania somnifera. J Ethnopharmacol. Jan; 64(1):91-3
Bhattacharya, S.K., K.S. Satyan and S. Ghosal. 1997. Antioxidant activity of glycowithanolides from Withania somnifera. Indian J Exp Biol. Mar; 35(3):236-9
Choudhary, M.I., Dur-e-Shahwar, Z. Parveen, A. Jabbar , I. Ali, Atta-ur-Rahman. 1995. Antifungal steroidal lactones from Withania coagulance. Phytochemistry Nov; 40(4):1243-6
Dash, Bhagwan. 1991. Materia Medica of Ayurveda. New Delhi: B. Jain Publishers.
----------- and Manfred Junius. 1983. A Handbook of Ayurveda. New Delhi: Concept Publishing.
Davis, L. and G. Kuttan. 1999. Effect of Withania somnifera on cytokine production in normal and cyclophosphamide treated mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol Nov; 21(4):695-703
Davis L. and G. Kuttan. 1998. Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. Oct; 62(3):209-14
Devi, P.U. 1996. Withania somnifera Dunal (Ashwagandha): potential plant source of a promising drug for cancer chemotherapy and radiosensitization. Indian J Exp Biol. Oct; 34(10):927-32
Devi, P.U., A.C. Sharada, and F.E. Solomon. 1995. In vivo growth inhibitory and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. Cancer Lett. Aug 16; 95(1-2):189-93
Dhuley, J.N. 1998a. Effect of Ashwagandha on lipid peroxidation in stress-induced animals. J Ethnopharmacol. Mar; 60(2):173-8
Dhuley, J.N. 1998b. Therapeutic efficacy of Ashwagandha against experimental aspergillosis in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. Feb; 20(1):191-8
Frawley, David and Vasant Lad. 1986. The Yoga Of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine. Santa Fe: Lotus Press.
Kirtikar KR and BD Basu. 1993. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Vol. 1-4. 1935. Reprint. Delhi: Periodical Experts.
Kulkarni, S.K. and I. Ninan. 1997. Inhibition of morphine tolerance and dependence by Withania somnifera in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. Aug; 57(3):213-7
Kulkarni, R.R., P.S. Patki, V.P. Jog, S.G. Gandage and B. Patwardhan. 1991. Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. J Ethnopharmacol. May-Jun; 33(1-2):91-5
Kuttan, G. 1996. Use of Withania somnifera Dunal as an adjuvant during radiation therapy. Indian J Exp Biol. Sep; 34(9):854-6
Mehta, A.K., P. Binkley, S.S. Gandhi, and M.K. Ticku. 1991. Pharmacological effects of Withania somnifera root extract on GABAA receptor complex. Indian J Med Res. Aug; 94:312-5
Menon L.G., R. Kuttan, and G. Kuttan. 1997. Effect of rasayanas in the inhibition of lung metastasis induced by B16F-10 melanoma cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. Dec; 16(4):365-8
Nadkarni, Dr. K.M. 1976. The Indian Materia Medica, with Ayurvedic, Unani and Home Remedies. Revised and enlarged by A.K. Nadkarni. 1954. Reprint. Bombay: Bombay Popular Prakashan PVP.
Schliebs, R., A. Liebmann , S.K. Bhattacharya, A. Kumar, S. Ghosal, and V. Bigl. 1997. Systemic administration of defined extracts from Withania somnifera (Indian Ginseng) and Shilajit differentially affects cholinergic but not glutamatergic and GABAergic markers in rat brain. Neurochem Int. Feb; 30(2):181-90
Sharad, A.C., F.E. Solomon, P.U. Devi, N. Udupa, and K.K. Srinivasan. 1996. Antitumor and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in vivo. Acta Oncol. 35(1):95-100
Varrier, P.S. 1996. Indian Medicinal Plants: A Compendium of 500 species. Edited by PK Warrier, VPK Nambiar and C Ramankutty. vol 5. Hyderabad: Orient Longman.
Ziauddin, M., N. Phansalkar, P. Patki , S. Diwanay, B. Patwardhan. 1996. Studies on the immunomodulatory effects of Ashwagandha. J Ethnopharmacol. Feb; 50(2):69-76
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Herb Information
Name: Dianthus
Biological Name: Herba dianthi
Caryophyllaceae
Other Names: Dianthus, Chinese pink flower, Qu mai
Parts Used: Whole plant
Remedies For:
Diuretic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, stimulates
peristalsis, lowers blood pressure
Drains dampness, clears heat, promotes urination. It is
indicated for genitourinary tract
infections associated with damp heat, with painful and
difficult urination, and possibly
with blood. It can be used for damp heat associated with
constipation or cessation of
menses due to blood stagnation.
Dosage: 6-12 grams
Combinations: For urinary tract infections, combine 9 grams
each of dianthus, plantain
seeds, polyporus, and poria, 6 grams of cinnamon twigs, and
20 grams of talcum.
For amenorrhea, combine 9 grams each of dianthus, peach
seed, safflower, and
leonurus.
Safety:
Dianthus should not be used by pregnant women or by those
with deficiency of kidney
or spleen qi
: Gravel Root
Biological Name: Eupatorium purpureum
Compositae
Other Names: Gravel Root, Gravelweed, Joe-Pye Weed, Queen of
the Meadow, purple
boneset, trumpet weed, kidney root
Parts Used: Rhizome and root
Active Compounds:
Volatile oil, of unknown composition
Flavonoids, including euparin
Resin
Remedies For:
Diuretic, anti-lithic, anti-rheumatic, stimulant, tonic,
astringent, relaxant.
Gravel Root is used primarily for kidney stones or gravel.
In urinary infections such as
cystitis and urethritis it may be used with benefit, whilst
it can also play a useful role in a
systemic treatment of rheumatism and gout.
Combinations : For kidney stones or gravel it combines well
with Stone Root, Parsley
Piert, Pellitory of the Wall or Hydrangea.
Description: Found in the USA.
Dosage:
Decoction: Put 1 teaspoonful of the herb in a cup of water,
bring to the boil and simmer
for 10 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture: Take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.
Safety:
No information available. Some herbs are known to react with
your medication. Please
consult your physician before starting on any herb.
: Guaiacum
Biological Name: Guaiacum officinale
Zygophyllaceae
Other Names: Guaiacum, Guaiac, Lignum vitae, pockwood
Parts Used: The heart-wood
Active Compounds:
Lignans; furoguaiacidin, guaiacin, furoguaiacin,
furoguaiaoxidin.
Resin acids; guaiaretic, hydroguaiaretic, guaiacic and
a- and b- guaiaconic
acids
Miscellaneous; vanillin, terpenoids including
guaiagutin, guaiasaponin.
Remedies For:
Anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, laxative, diaphoretic,
diuretic.
Guaiacum is useful for rheumatic complaints. It is
especially useful where there is much
inflammation and pain present. Used in chronic rheumatism
and rheumatoid arthritis.
Aids in the treatment of gout and may be used in the
prevention of its recurrence. Due
to the high content of resins in this herb, care must be
taken with patients with gastritis
or peptic ulceration.
Combinations : It may be used together with Bogbean,
Meadowsweet or Celery Seed.
Description:
Guaiac is the resin from a tree that grows in West Indies,
Mexico, Central America, and
northern south America. The crooked trunk grows 30 to 40
feet high and provides
lignum vitae, the olive brown, heavy, very hard wood which
contains the oily resin.
Dosage:
Decoction: put 1 teaspoonful of the wood chips in a cup of
water, bring to boil and
simmer for 15-20 minutes. This should be drunk three times a
day.
Tincture: 1-2ml three times a day.
Safety:
Due to the high content of resins in this herb, care must be
taken with patients with
gastritis or peptic ulceration.
No other information available. Some herbs are known to
react with your medication.
Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.
Herb Information
Name: Astragalus
Biological Name: Astragalus membranaceus
Family: Leguminosae
Other Names: Huang qi, Astragalus
Parts Used: Roots
Active Compounds:
Astragalus contains numerous components, including
flavonoids, polysaccharides,
triterpene glycosides (e.g., astragalosides I-VII), amino
acids, and trace minerals.
Astragalus appears to restore T-cell (a specific type of
white blood cell ) counts to
relatively normal ranges in some cancer patients.
History:
Shen Nong, the founder of Chinese herbal medicine,
classified astragalus as a
superior herb in his classical treatise Shen Nong Pen Tsao
Ching (circa A.D. 100).
The Chinese name huang qi translates as "yellow leader,"
referring to the yellow color
of the root and its status as one of the most important
tonic herbs. Traditional Chinese
medicine utilized this herb for night sweats, deficiency of
chi (e.g., fatigue, weakness,
and loss of appetite), and diarrhea.
Remedies For:
Immune tonic, diuretic, lowers blood pressure, Qi tonic
Astragalus is useful for the treatment of:
Alzheimer's disease
Chemotherapy support
Common cold/sore throat
Immune function
Astragalus is the primary herb used in Chinese medicine to
tone the immune system
of the lungs. It is useful for conditions of immune
deficiency that lead to spontaneous
sweating. It is also used for spleen qi deficiency with
symptoms of weak, low
metabolism; edema; and prolapse of internal organs, as it
raises the spleen yang and
qi. It can be used for qi and blood deficiency caused by
loss of blood or after childbirth.
Description:
Astragalus is native to northern China and the elevated
regions of the Chinese
provinces Yunnan and Sichuan. The portion of the plant used
medicinally is the four- to
seven-year-old dried root collected in the spring.
While there are over 2,000 types of astragalus world-wide,
the Chinese version has
been extensively tested, both chemically and
pharmacologically'
Dosage:
Textbooks on Chinese herbs recommend taking 9-15 grams of
the crude herb per day
in decoction form made by boiling the root in water for a
few minutes and then brewing
the tea. Supplements typically contain 500 mg of astragalus.
Two to three tablets or
capsules or 3-5 ml of tincture three times per day are often
recommended.
Safety:
Astragalus should not be used for cases of excess or when
there is deficiency of yin
with heat signs, and it should not be used when there is
stagnation of qi or dampness,
especially when there is painful obstruction.
Herb Information
Name: Belladonna
Biological Name: Atropa belladonna
Other Names: Black cherry, deadly nightshade, dwale, poison
black cherry, belladonna
Parts Used: Leaves, tops, berries
Remedies For:
Antispasmodic, calmative, diaphoretic, diuretic, narcotic.
The narcotic action of belladonna can produce paralysis by
affecting the central
nervous system. Not to be used without medical direction.
Description:
Belladonna is a perennial plant found occasionally in waste
places in the eastern
states of the U.S., more commonly in European pastures,
mountain forests, ruins, and
waste places. A thick, creeping, whitish, fleshy rootstock
sends up an erect, leafy stem
that usually splits into three branches and attains a height
of up to 5 feet. The dull
green, ovate leaves grow in pairs, one leaf being half as
large as the other. Belladonna
flowers are solitary, bell-shaped, and dull brown to dark
purple in color. The fruit is a
sweet-tasting, black, shiny berry about the size of a
cherry.
Safety:
The narcotic action of belladonna can produce paralysis by
affecting the central
nervous system. Not to be used without medical direction.
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Whether your garden is frozen over or your first freeze is yet to arrive, its never too early to start dreaming about next years garden. If you set aside a little time this winter to plan what to grow next year, youll be rewarded with an early start come spring. Plus, you can make your green thumb even greener just by reading seed catalogs. New gardeners, especially, should read seed catalogs to learn about fruit and veggie varieties that are naturally pest- and disease-resistant, are fabulously prolific, or offer superior flavor and nutrition. Its also a good way to introduce yourself to underappreciated but fun-to-grow fruits and veggies such as kohlrabi and mouse melons.
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