Devil’s claw

Devil’s claw is an herb. 

The botanical name, Harpagophytum, means “hook plant” in Greek. This plant, which is native to Africa, gets its name from the appearance of its fruit, which is covered with hooks meant to attach onto animals in order to spread the seeds. The roots and tubers of the plant are used to make medicine.

Devil’s claw is used for “hardening of the arteries" (atherosclerosis), arthritis, gout, muscle pain (myalgia), back pain, tendonitis, chest pain, gastrointestinal (GI) upset or heart burn, fever, and migraine headache. It is also used for difficulties in childbirth, menstrual problems, allergic reactions, loss of appetite, and kidney and bladder disease.

Some people apply devil’s claw to the skin for injuries and other skin conditions.

How effective is it?

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

The effectiveness ratings for DEVIL'S CLAW are as follows:

Possibly effective for...

• Decreasing pain from a kind of arthritis called osteoarthritis. Taking devil’s claw alone or along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) seems to help decrease osteoarthritis-related pain. Some evidence suggests that devil’s claw works about as well as diacerhein (a slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis that is not available in the U.S.) for improving osteoarthritis pain in the hip and knee after 16 weeks of treatment. Some people taking devil’s claw seem to be able to lower the dose of NSAIDs they need for pain relief. This evidence comes from a study that used a specific powdered devil’s claw root product (Harpadol, Arkopharma) containing 2% of the devil’s claw ingredient harpagoside (9.5 mg/capsule) and 3% total iridoid glycosides (14.5 mg per capsule). Another specific devil’s claw extract (Doloteffin, Ardeypharm) 2400 mg/day providing 60 mg/day of the harpagoside ingredient has also been used.
• Back pain. Taking devil’s claw orally seems to lessen low-back pain.

Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for...

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Early research suggests that taking devil’s claw extract by mouth might not improve RA.
• Upset stomach.
• Loss of appetite.
• High cholesterol.
• Gout.
• Muscle pain.
• Migraine headache.
• Skin injuries and conditions.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate devil’s claw for these uses.

How does it work? 

Devil’s claw contains chemicals that might decrease inflammation and swelling and resulting pain.

Are there safety concerns?

Devil’s claw is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth in appropriate doses for up to a year. The most common side effect is diarrhea. About 8% of the people participating in one research study developed diarrhea. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, and loss of taste. It can also cause allergic skin reactions, menstrual problems, and changes in blood pressure.

However, not enough is known about the safety of using devil’s claw long-term or applying it to the skin.
read more at  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/984.html

Anti-Inflammatory Healing Tea

For Joint Inflammation and Pain Relief
Ingredients:

• 1 whole turmeric roots, peeled and cut in 1/4 inch slices OR 2 tsp ground tumeric
• 2 inches whole ginger root, peeled and cut in 1/2 inch slices (or just get one of the biggest and freshest whole roots available and use the whole thing) OR 1.5 tsp ground ginger
• 9 whole cloves OR 0.5 tsp ground cloves
• 1 medium beet, peeled and chopped
• 5-6 green tea bags or similar amount of whole leaf tea
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Organic honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil ~ 64 oz.(~2 L) water in a large pot.  Reduce to simmer.
2. Add WHOLE cloves, turmeric, ginger, and beets (if using ground spices, you’ll add them in at step #4).
3. Cover and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Add any ground spices, stir well.  Add Green tea (bags or loose leaf).  Remove from heat and allow to steep 2 minutes.
5. Strain (if needed) or remove bags, and add lemon juice and small amount of honey (optional), to taste.
6. Can keep extra tea in refrigerator up to 2 weeks and reheat as needed.

TOP 10 ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS 
1. Wild Alaskan Salmon: Salmon contains anti-inflammatory omega-3s (wild is better than farmed) and has been known to help numerous ailments. Try and incorporate oily fish into your diet twice weekly. If you don't like fish, try a high quality fish supplement.
2. Kelp: High in fiber, this brown algae extract helps control liver and lung cancer, douses inflammation, and is anti-tumor and anti-oxidative. Kombu, wakame and arame are good sources.
3. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The secret to longevity in Mediterranean culture, this oil provides a healthy dose of fats that fights inflammation, can help lower risks of asthma and arthritis, as well as protect the heart and blood vessels.
4. Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale and cauliflower are all loaded with antioxidants. Naturally detoxifying, they can help rid the body of possible harmful compounds.
5. Blueberries: Blueberries not only reduce inflammation, but they can protect the brain from aging and prevent diseases, such as cancer and dementia. Aim for organic berries, as pesticides are hard to wash away due to their size.
6. Turmeric: This powerful Asian spice contains a natural anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin, which is often found in curry blends. It is said to have the same effect as over-the counter pain relievers (but without their side effects).
 7. Ginger: Ginger contains a host of health benefits. Among them, it helps reduce inflammation and control blood sugar. Ginger tea is a great addition to any diet.
8. Garlic: Though a little more inconsistent (in terms of research), garlic can help reduce inflammation, regulate glucose and help your body fight infection.
9. Green Tea: Like produce, this tea contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids that may even help reduce the risks of certain cancers.
10. Sweet Potato: A great source of complex carbs, fiber, beta-carotene, manganese and vitamin B6 and C, these potatoes actually help heal inflammation in the body.

TOP 10 INFLAMMATORY FOODS 
These foods have been linked to obesity, increased risks of numerous diseases and even death in some cases.
1. Sugar: Sugar is everywhere. Try and limit processed foods, desserts and snacks with excess sugar. Opt for fruit instead.
2. Common Cooking Oils: Safflower, soy, sunflower, corn, and cottonseed. These oils promote inflammation and are made with cheaper ingredients. 3. Trans Fats: Trans fats increase bad cholesterol, promote inflammation, obesity and resistance to insulin. They are in fried foods, fast foods, commercially baked goods, such as peanut butter and items prepared with partially hydrogenated oil, margarine and vegetable oil.
4. Dairy: While kefir and some yogurts are acceptable, dairy is hard on the body. Milk is a common allergen that can trigger inflammation, stomach problems, skin rashes, hives and even breathing difficulties.
5. Feedlot-Raised Meat: Animals who are fed with grains like soy and corn contain high inflammation. These animals also gain excess fat and are injected with hormones and antibiotics. Always opt for organic, free-range meats who have been fed natural diets.
6. Red and Processed Meat: Red meat contains a molecule that humans don't naturally produce called Neu5GC. Once you ingest this compound, your body develops antibodies which may trigger constant inflammatory responses. Reduce red meat consumption and replace with poultry, fish and learn cuts of red meat, once a week at most.
7. Alcohol: Regular consumption of alcohol causes irritation and inflammation to numerous organs, which can lead to cancer.
8. Refined Grains: "Refined" products have no fiber and have a high glycemic index. They are everywhere: white rice, white flour, white bread, pasta, pastries... Try and replace with minimally processed grains.
9. Artificial Food Additives: Aspartame and MSG are two common food additives that can trigger inflammation responses. Try and omit completely from the diet.
10. Fill in the Blank: Do you constantly have headaches or feel tired? Sometimes, you may develop an allergy to a food and not even know it. Coffee, certain vegetables, cheese... there might be a trigger you aren't even aware of. Try and take a few foods out to see how you feel and slowly incorporate them back in to see if there might be a hidden culprit lurking in your diet!

anti inflammatory info

How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Relieve Joint Pain and Stiffness?
Potassium deficiency eventually causes joint stiffness and muscle cramps. The rich source of  potassium in ACV is an agent in removing toxins and acid crystals from the body, maintaining joint pliability. A build up of acid crystals lodge themselves in joint spaces causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Apple cider vinegar helps to put acid crystals into solution so they can be excreted from your body relieving stiffness and pain.
The best way to ingest apple cider vinegar:
Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV and 1 tablespoon of raw unfiltered honey in an 8oz glass of luke warm (not hot) water. Drink 1-3 times per day.
*Raw honey is also a rich source of potassium.
(I prefer the ACV tablets I get at Vitamin Shoppe)
Rosemary - Powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial culinary herb.
 Turmeric - Super anti-cancer herb, also known for enhancing joint health, ending arthritis pain and increasing muscle and tendon flexibility.
Ginger - One of the world's best-known tonic herbs. Boosts immune function and circulation, helping to remove metabolic toxins from the body's cells. Well known antibacterial and anti-viral properties.
Holy Basil - Also known as tulsi, holy basil is used in Ayurvedic medicine to combat arthritis, asthma, heart disease and many other conditions. It's also a well-documented anti-stress herb that been studied extensively for its stress-reduction properties.
Green Tea - A phenomenal healing herb, green tea exhibits strong anti-cancer benefits as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Hu Zhang - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herb that invigorates the blood and eases inflammation of the lungs. The name for this herb is quite fascinating: The "Hu" means tiger, and "Zhang" means cane (like a walking cane). The "Hu" is used to denote strength, and the "Zhang" means "supportive." Hu Zhang dissolves phlegm and stops coughing, among its many other actions.
Chinese Goldthread - This is another Chinese herb that contains several bitter alkaloids. One of them is berberine, which is a phenomenal anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal nutrient. It has even been studied as a defense against MRSA superbug infections. Under ultraviolet light, berberine exhibits a natural fluorescence, meaning it exhibits a natural resonance with certain wavelengths of light.
Barberry - An herb used by ancient Egyptians (and still in use there today) for treating inflammatory fevers. It also aids in digestion and liver function. It's more of a support herb in this formula than the celebrity.
Oregano - Oregano is a very potent anti-parasite herb, but it's also used as a natural decongestant and anti-allergy herb. Highly-concentrated wildcrafted forms (like you find from North American Herb & Spice) will blow your mind. Baikal Skullcap - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat intestinal inflammation, this world-renowned herb also relieves anxiety and insomnia. It also helps lower blood pressure and reduce tension throughout the body.
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Turmeric, ginger and green tea ingredients are powerful anti-cancer remedies all by themselves. Turmeric contains ingredients that halt the growth of cancer tumors by cutting off their blood supply. Ginger boosts circulation to extremities and greatly enhances immune function. Green tea offers powerful prevention for breast cancer and prostate cancer!
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Keep a food diary for one week. Yep, just write down every single thing you eat or drink for a week. Really. If you're like most people, the list will absolutely shock you.

The anti-inflammatory diet
The anti-inflammatory diet has a lot in common with the Mediterranean Diet. You've probably already heard about the many health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, right? Among them are greatly reduced risks of heart attack, stroke and cancer. The reason for those benefits is simply that the Mediterranean Diet is anti-inflammatory!

Here are the basics of the anti-inflammatory diet:

• 90% plant-based foods (or more)
• Fresh produce at every meal
• No processed foods (made in a factory)
• No fried foods, no cheap oils
• Lots of cold-refined, extra virgin olive oil
• Lots of avocados, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.
• Drink fresh vegetable juice daily (juice it yourself!)
• The best anti-inflammatory juices are cucumber and celery
• Lots of superfoods (berries, sprouts, etc.)
• Green tea and water as your beverages
• Lots of raw walnuts, pecans and other nuts

If you switch to this kind of diet, you'll experience a complete reversal of inflammation in your body (that sounds like a bold, sweeping statement but it's really just cause and effect). And not just inflammation, but also cancer, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression, kidney stones, osteoporosis, allergies and many other degenerative health conditions. This is the diet of LIFE, and it's the mainstay of the raw foods community that's right now curing serious diseases by juicing raw vegetables and fruits on a daily basis.

5 truths about inflammation
1. Inflammation is the underlying cause of heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes and many other conditions.

2. Inflammation is NOT caused by bad luck. It's caused by a bad diet.

3. Inflammatory foods are meats, dairy, sodas, processed foods, fried foods and foods cooked at high temperatures. Keep a food diary if you want to discover just how many bad foods you're really eating.

4. Anti-inflammatory foods are fresh, raw, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices. Eat more of this good stuff!

5. Anti-inflammatory supplements like Zyflamend and astaxanthin are powerful modulators of inflammation, but don't use them as a way to avoid the responsibility of making serious changes to your diet. Use them to support your positive changes, and you'll see accelerated results!
http://www.newchapter.com/zyflamend/zyflamend-whole-body
Zyflamend can be purchased from Amazon also.

read this from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center also
http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/herb/zyflamend

My arthritis in my hands cleared using
1) generic store brand of triple strength Glucosamine Chondroitin 2 pills a day (1500mg and 1200mg)
2) Apple Cider Vinegar tablets from Vitamin Shoppe as a result of search and research (600mg daily). These don't store up in the system but I instantly notice if I miss a day.

Google any of these and learn more :)

Please let me know if there is anything you would like me to find the info and share in a post.

.

PAPAYA Benefits

HAVE I MENTIONED PAPAYA BEFORE?
PAPAYA: Create radiant health with the medicinal advantages of PAPAYA.
Named the "Fruit of the Angels" by Christopher Columbus, papaya is enjoyed around the world as a sweet tropical delight. Every part of the papaya tree and its fruit lend great therapeutic value in maintaining health and correcting bodily imbalances. Indigenous people have known of the health promoting benefits of papaya for centuries, and now the knowledge has entered into the spotlight of modern medicine.

Papaya is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The ripe fruit provides a bounty of vitamin C, E, and A along with folate and potassium. The shining star of papaya nutrition is papain, a formidable enzyme that helps digest protein and reduce inflammation. Papain is 3 times more abundant in green papaya than fully ripened fruit.
The Carica papaya, known as Pawpaw in Australia and New Zealand, is the most famous species for promoting excellent health and wellness. All parts of the plant and fruit have benefit. Fruit and seed extracts are found to be effective against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Shigella flexneri. The seeds are also rich in highly digestible protein and contain the alkaloid carpaine.
Carpaine has a calming effect on the heart, bronchus, and muscles, making it ideal for lung ailments such as bronchitis and asthma. Natives of the south sea islands have long used papaya seeds for birth control and as an effective anti-parasitic. Papaya tree bark helps with toothache while the root can be cooked as a tea for jaundice, intestinal parasites, and bleeding disorders.
The leaves are considered the most powerful element of the plant, yet the skin of both unripe and ripe fruit is also remarkably bioactive. The leaves contain 15 times the digestible protein of fully ripened fruit and include high levels of papain. The skin of mature green papaya is also an abundant source of this potent enzyme.
Papaya has been shown to prevent and heal many health issues. Conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, macular degeneration, and arthritis are alleviated by papaya consumption. Digestive health is enhanced by the enzymes and fiber present in papaya. The fiber binds to cancer causing toxins which are then removed from the system, safeguarding healthy colon cells in the process.
The enzymes found in papaya also remove the thick fibrin coating on tumors which allows the killer T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Of the many health virtues of papaya, the ability to dissolve cancerous tumors has caught the attention of modern science. Believed to have been discovered by the Aboriginal tribes of Australia, papaya leaf tea is an effective remedy for cancer. A study at the University of Florida found that papaya slowed the growth of a wide variety of tumors, including those of the breast, lung, pancreas, cervix, and liver. Researchers used a concentrated tea made from dried papaya leaf. It was found that the larger the dose of papaya leaf tea used the more it reduced the tumor.
The dramatic healing properties of the tea were attributed to increased production of Th1-type cytokines, which are regulators of the immune system. With an increase of cytokines, the immune system is able to dissolve cancer cells. As an added benefit, consumption of papaya leaf tea is void of the harmful side effects of traditional therapies. However, those with a known latex allergy should not consume any part of the papaya tree including the fruit.
As a delicious food or potent medicine, the extraordinary papaya tree provides a wealth of healthy benefit.
Thank you, credit to:
http://www. naturalnews. com/031844_papaya_health_benefits.html#ixzz22oX5G75b

Add to your Smoothie garlic, turmeric, ginger-

Herbal remedies

What it’s good for: Reducing inflammation that may worsen pain What the experts say: The research is still equivocal, and anyone planning to take herbs and supplements should consult with their physician or a licensed naturopath. Still, many MDs find that their patients experience relief with omega-3 fish oil supplements and daily consumption of anti-inflammatory spices. “The three main supplements I use for pain are fish oils and turmeric, which are both anti-inflammatory, as well as vitamin D,” says Dr. Lipman. Some small studies have found that fish oil may reduce pain for people with rheumatoid arthritis, too. Dr. Miller is a proponent of turmeric for pain. “Take two teaspoons of turmeric and one teaspoon of grated ginger per day, with a little black pepper to help absorption; it works as a natural alternative to ibuprofen, and is great for achy joints. I make a smoothie in the morning with mango, turmeric and ginger,” says Dr. Miller.

Read more: http://www.prevention.com/health/health-concerns/pain-management-natural-remedies-ease-aches/8-herbal-remedies#ixzz24HxMG7VK

Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural reaction to injury or infection. The affected tissues swell, redden, become warm and tender, and may be painful. Things that can trigger inflammation include drug overuse, environmental toxins, free radical damage, infections, injury, trauma, and bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, to name a few. Unfortunately, it is often difficult to identify the sources of inflammation.
Eat a diet composed of 75 percent raw foods, and drink plenty of herbal teas and juices.
Eat foods high in flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants and useful for inflammation reduction. Spinach and blueberries are excellent sources of flavonoids. Strawberries contain smaller amounts. Quercetin, found in onions, is good for inflammation as well.
Consume half of a fresh pineapple or fresh papaya daily. Pineapple contains bromelain and papaya contains papain, both enzymes that reduce swelling and inflammation. It should reduce the pain and swelling in two to six days. Only fresh pineapple or papaya (not canned) is effective. Bromelain is also available in pill form.
Eat coldwater fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon, and sardines, as they are rich sources of essential fatty acids.
Limit saturated fats and salt.
Avoid cola, sugar, white flour products, and junk foods.
Any organ or tissue of the body, internal or external, can become inflamed. Internal inflammation is often caused by bacterial infection, but can also be caused by disorders such as allergies, arthritis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disorders, osteoarthritis, peptic ulcer disease, or ulcerative colitis. External inflammation is most often the result of injury, but can also result from (or be aggravated by) allergies, infection, and other factors.
Alfalfa is a good source of minerals and chlorophyll.
Aloe vera juice is helpful for inflammation.
Bilberry contains flavonoids that reduce inflammation.
Boswellia and turmeric (curcumin) help to reduce inflammation.
Cat's claw is good for inflammation and healing.
Echinacea, ginger, goldenseal, pau d'arco, red clover, and yucca are all good for inflammation.

Turmeric

Many clinical studies agree that curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory effects, including a significant beneficial effect in relieving rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Curcumin, which gives this spice its familiar yellow pigment, may also lower cholesterol. Turmeric is also packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which have been shown to prevent cataracts. Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.

Thyme

Thyme contains thymol, which increases blood-flow to the skin. The warmth is comforting, and some herbalists believe that the increased blood-flow speeds healing. An anti-spasmodic, Thyme relaxes respiratory muscles and is endorsed for treating bronchitis by Commission E, the expert panel that judges the safety and effectiveness of herbal medicines for the German government. Aromatherapists say that thyme's scent is a mood lifter.

Sage

The oils found in sage are both antiseptic and antibiotic, so it can help fight infections. Sage is effective for symptoms of menopause, night sweats and hot flashes, because of its estrogenic action and because its tannins can dry up perspiration. There's also compelling evidence that sage may be of value to people with diabetes for whom the hormone insulin does not work as efficiently as it should. Lab studies indicate that sage may boost insulin's action.

Rosemary

Rosemary is one of the richer herbal sources of antioxidants, which have been shown to prevent cataracts, and contains 19 chemicals with antibacterial action that help fight infection. Traditionally used to ease asthma, this common culinary ingredient has volatile oils that can reduce the airway constriction induced by histamine, that chemical culprit of asthma and other allergy symptoms. Herbalists think that rosemary may also help ease breast pain by acting as a natural drying agent to fluid filled cysts.

Parsley

Diuretic herbs such as parsley prevent problems such as kidney stones and bladder infections and keep our body's plumbing running smoothly by causing it to produce more urine. They also relieve bloating during menstruation. Also there's a reason for that parsley on the edge of the diner plate, its not just there for fancy decoration; it's an effective breath freshener because it contains high levels of chlorophyll.

Oregano

Oregano contains at least four compounds that soothe coughs and 19 chemicals with antibacterial action that may help reduce body odor. The ingredients in oregano that soothe coughs may also help un-knot muscles in the digestive tract, making oregano a digestive aid. This familiar spice also contains compounds that can lower blood pressure too.

Mint

Herbalists the world over use mint, as a premier stomach tonic, to counteract nausea and vomiting, promote digestion, calm stomach muscle spasms, relieve flatulence, and ease hiccups. Menthol, the aromatic oil in peppermint, also relaxes the airways and fights bacteria and viruses. Menthol interferes with the sensation from pain receptors, thus it may be useful in reducing headache pain. Scientific evidence suggests that peppermint can kill many kinds of micro-organisms, and may boost mental alertness. In one study, people who inhaled menthol said they felt as if it relieved their nasal congestion, although it didn't increase their measurable air flow.
I carry peppermint oil and use a drop of it on the temples for headache relief.

Ginger

When it comes to quelling the queasiness of motion sickness, ginger has no equal say herbalists. In fact, researchers have demonstrated that ginger beats dimenhydrate, the main ingredient in motion sickness drugs such as Dramamine, for controlling symptoms of seasickness and motion sickness. Ginger stimulates saliva flow and digestive activity, settles the stomach, relieves vomiting, eases pain from gas and diarrhea, and is effective as an anti-nausea remedy. This aromatic herb also helps lower cholesterol. Herbalists have also found it to be useful as a pain reliever.
Look for my earlier posts regarding my weekly tea preparation including ginger.

Garlic

Intact garlic cloves contain an odorless, sulphur-containing amino acid called alliin. When the garlic is crushed, alliin becomes allicin. Research shows that allicin helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure and also helps prevents blood clots. Garlic can also reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Compounds in this familiar bulb kill many organisms, including bacteria and viruses that cause earaches, flu and colds. Research indicates that garlic is also effective against digestive ailments and diarrhea. What's more, further studies suggest that this common and familiar herb may help prevent the onset of cancers.