Echinacea and Colds & flu

January 8, 2020 by Jurgen

Echinacea purpurea

USES Immune stimulant, Colds, Flu, Infections.

The Echinacea herb is one of the most popular herbs used in Europe. It is considered to be the prime remedy for the Immune system and this view has been supported by extensive research.

HOW IT WORKS Echinacea works principally by stimulating a group of cells in the Immune system known as the macrophages. These cells have the unique ability to ‘eat’ matter foreign to the body, such as viruses, bacteria and other particles entering the body.

Stimulating the Immune system in this way improves the way the body handles infections, when viruses and bacteria do damage to invade the body. Clinical trials have shown that Echinacea can improve the symptoms of cold and flu, shortening the course of the illness in over 80% of people.

Herbal remedies and IBS

November 30, 2019 by Jurgen

Tormentil aka Bloodroot is one of the best herbal remedies for IBS

USES Bowel inflammation, IBS, diarrhoea

DESCRIPTION The Tormentil herb is a member of the Rose family. It can be found all over Europe, growing in wild woods, moors and grassy pieces of ground.

HOW IT WORKS Tormentil has a high tannin content, which gives it a distinct astringent action on the digestive tract. Tannins bind to the proteins present in the irritated lining of the bowel, forming a layer, which soothes and provides a barrier against infective organisms and toxins. They also slow down the frequency of bowel motions, encouraging the healing of an inflamed bowel.

Yarrow – Digestive Bitter

July 27, 2019 by Jurgen

Yarrow – Achillea millefolium

USES Indigestion, Digestive tonic, Gastritis, Leaky gut, Abdominal bloating, Wind, Food allergies.

DESCRIPTION Yarrow is classified as one of the bitter herbs. Other herbs in this category include Centaury, Gentian and Dandelion. These have the common ability to stimulate digestive processes and improving the breakdown of food.

HOW IT WORKS Yarrow contains volatile oils and flavonoids. These have an anti- spasmodic and anti-inflammatory action on the digestive system, easing colic and reducing flatulence.

Bitters stimulate the taste buds. This triggers off a reflex nerve action, which increases the flow of saliva and stomach enzymes. The sum total of this is an improvement in the digestive function of the stomach and small intestines.