Volume 1/ Issue 2
LECHINACEA PURPUREA (ECHINACEA) ECHINACEA- THE SPIRITUAL AMERICAN INDIAN IMMUNE STIMULATING PLANT.
This plant is probably one of herbal medicines best known plants.
In fact the research by Cardiff University illustrated good results that strongly suggested this plants beneficial effects in the prevention and alleviating the symptoms of a cold
Echinacea is also used against many other infections including the flu, urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, genital herpes, gum disease, tonsillitis, streptococcus infections, syphilis, typhoid, malaria, and diphtheria.
How does it work?
Echinacea seems to activate chemicals in the body that decrease inflammation, which might reduce cold and flu symptoms.
DIET AND KEEPING HEALTHY
So we all know what our healthy foods look like, we see a multitude of programmes, diet books and newspaper articles feeding us a wealth of great dietary information but do we know what foods fall into which vitamin/mineral categories and do we know how this benefits us? Vitamins A, C and E are useful vitamins that promote extremely useful effects in the body and aid in the fight against disease.
Vitamin A nourishes the eyes, the skin and has been useful in some disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. It is important in the formation of bones and teeth, aids in fat storage and protects against colds, influenza, and respiratory infections. It also helps to slow the aging process. Two sources of Vitamin A are fish liver oil (pre-formed Vitamin A) and Beta Carotene, which is pro Vitamin A. sources include: cheese eggs, oily fish and beta-carotene found in yellow red and green leafy vegetables.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is required for tissue growth and repair, adrenal gland function, and healthy gums. It protects against the harmful effects of pollution, prevents cancer, protects against infection, and enhances immunity. New evidence indicates that Vitamin C and Vitamin E work together and have a greater effect than when they are taken separately. Sources include: Cantaloupe, citrus fruits, e.g. orange, tangerine and grapefruit, kiwi fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and cranberries. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that prevents cancer and cardiovascular disease. This supplement improves circulation, repairs tissue, and is useful in treating fibrocystic breasts and premenstrual syndrome. It also promotes normal clotting and healing, reduces scarring from some wounds, reduces blood pressure, aids in preventing cataracts, improves athletic performance and aids leg cramps. It retards aging and may prevent age spots as well. Sources include: spinach, red pepper, avocado, cereals, eggs, almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts and brazil nuts.
Contact details: for more information and advice: Catherine Wasik BSc Hons Ost; BSc Hons MNIMH Registered Osteopath and Medical Herbalist, With acupuncture training and rehabilitation pilates instructor training At George Morris Physiotherapy Clinics in Hindley and Ashton Direct line: 07828261152; email: catherine.w12@hotmail.com; Website: www.herbalosteopathiclife.com Herbal Osteopathic Life
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