Alfalfa is also known by the names Lucerne, Purple Medic, Buffalo Grass, and Chilean Clover. The name "Alfalfa" is derived from the Arabic "al-fac-facah" which means "father of all foods". The genus name, Medicago, refers to Medea in North Africa from where this plant is thought to have originated. The species name, sativa, means "with a long history of cultivation". The Chinese have used Alfalfa to stimulate appetite and to treat digestive problems, particularly ulcers. Ancient Indian Ayurvedic physicians used Alfalfa to treat ulcers, arthritis pains and fluid retention. Early Americans used Alfalfa to treat arthritis, boils, cancer, scurvy, and urinary and bowel problems. Pioneer women used it to aid menstruation. Alfalfa has also been used traditionally for treating infections resulting from surgical incisions, bed sores and inner ear problems. Alfalfa is an excellent natural source of most vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is critical in blood clotting, so Alfalfa may have some use in improving clotting. It also contains trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, and potassium. The plant is so rich in calcium that the ashes of its leaves are almost 99% pure calcium. Alfalfa is also higher in protein than many other plant foods. Alfalfa is a rich natural source of chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and protein. Alfalfa's deep root system pulls these valuable minerals from the soil. Alfalfa is an excellent nutritive food for convalescing people.
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Dandelion was brought from Europe by the early Colonists. It is one of the planet's most famous and useful weeds. Dandelions were used to help "clear the body of old emotions such as anger and fear that can be stored in the body's liver and kidneys". Dandelion is more than just a common lawn weed - it contains vital nutrients and minerals as well as vitamins A, B, C and D. Dandelion has been used for centuries as a primary herb that purifies the blood and flushes toxins out of the body, via the liver and kidneys. Today, Dandelion is commonly found in multi-herbal combinations. Rich in calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and sodium, Dandelion is ideal for treating high blood pressure and poor digestion by stimulating the circulation of blood to the entire body. Dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate inflammation and muscle spasms, plus it acts as a mild laxative relieving constipation. Dandelion, unlike some chemical diet supplements, will not deplete the body of potassium when used for weight loss. The constituents responsible for Dandelion's effect on the digestive system and liver are the bitter principles. Previously referred to as taraxacin, these constituents are sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolide and germacranolide type, and are unique to Dandelion. Dandelion Root contains approximately 40% inulin, a fiber widely distributed in fruits, vegetables and other plants. Inulin is classified as a food ingredient and is considered to be safe to eat. |
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Kelp is a rich source of natural vitamins and minerals, including essential trace minerals. The primary chemical constituents of Kelp include algin, carrageenan, iodine, potassium, bromine, mucopolysaccharides, mannitol, alginic acid, kainic acid, laminine, histamine, zeaxanthin, protein, and vitamins B-2 and C. Kelp is a nutritional source that is used to promote healthy glandular functions, focusing especially on the thyroid. Kelp is especially high in iodine, which must be present for proper glandular function. By regulating the thyroid, Kelp helps stimulate and balance the metabolism. The large amounts of iodine found in Kelp are important in the treatment of an under-active thyroid. Consequently, Kelp may contribute to weight loss if the weight gain is directly related to thyroid disorders. Containing algin, a fiber that absorbs toxins and nutrients from the digestive system, Kelp helps improve digestion, stimulate kidney function, increase circulation, and purify the blood. Kelp has also been known to treat inflamed joints and tissues caused by arthritis and rheumatism. Furthermore, Kelp enhances the immune system and eliminates the negative effects that stress may have on the body. It can help absorb and remove drugs, chemicals, heavy metals, and radioactive strontium 90 from the body. It can also help to normalize overly low blood pressure. Known topical uses for this herb include its use as a compress or oil for arthritic joints, as a bath herb for cellulite and weight loss and as a lotion for its skin-softening qualities.
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