Mainly the parts utilized are the root and rhizome. It composes various substances such as phenolic acid, triterpene glycosides, resins, fatty acids, tannins and other useful ingredients.

What are the health benefits of Black Cohosh?

Main Action:

Anti-inflammatory

Dopaminergic-reduce symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes. However, it must be accompanied by healthy lifestyle approaches.

Regulates hormones- mainly estrogen

Serotonergic

Other Action:

Antihypertensive

Antispasmodic

Boost immune system

Known Uses:

Dysmenorrhea

Menopause

Premenstrual Syndrome

Other Uses:

Black cohosh has been traditionally used to treat different variety of female reproductive conditions, rheumatism, diarrhea and inflammation. It maintains good flow of menstruation and at times experts would recommend its use for menstrual migraine, ovarian insufficiency, and dysfunction.

Dosage Range:

Many practitioners have used black cohosh long-term without any safety concerns. Black cohosh however, is not recommended if continuously used for more than 6 months.

Decoction or powdered root: 0.3–2 g three times a day.

Tincture: 2–4 ml three times a day.

Fluid extract: 0.3–2 ml three times a day.

Toxicity:

Excessive intake produces nausea, vomiting, visual disturbance and vertigo.

Liver failure

Hepatitis

Adverse Reactions:

Adverse effects upon intake of black cohosh tend to be mild, rare and reversible.

Large doses: tremor, headache, dizziness

GI disturbances

Rashes

Interactions:

Presently unknown

Contraindications and Precautions:

One study was conducted with patient having diagnosed of breast cancer. Results were astonishingly favorable as it inhibit cancer cell multiplication, estrogen proliferation and enhance Tamoxifen, a chemotherapeutic drug’s anti-proliferative action. However, usage must be carefully monitored by health care professional for safety and efficiently.

Pregnancy Use:

It is not recommended in pregnancy though it is often used to facilitate childbirth.

Supplement Reference:

Effective symptoms reliever during menopause. However, one needs to take constantly for about 4-12 weeks to obtain maximum menopausal symptom relief.

Precaution is a must when taking black cohosh as they have been reports of hepatitis and liver failure if taken in long-term and inappropriately.

Black cohosh is often used to treat dysmenorrheal and premenstrual syndrome.

Remember to consult your doctor before you decide to take this herb as treatment and if you are expectant.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health safety issues?

Consulting a health care professional is as a rule advisable when taking Black cohosh, particularly if used as treatment for cancer and during pregnancy.

What will this herb do to my body?

Black cohosh is very effective as treatment for women experiencing mild to moderate menopausal symptoms. It has also been effective for premenstrual syndrome and preventing dysmenorrhea.

When can I expect full health benefits?

Several studies show that within 4-12 weeks of constant treatment, relief of menopausal symptoms is visibly seen.

Today, they are still frequently used to make beverages, syrups, pies and jams. The herbal medicines have been utilized in humans to treat diarrhea and hemorrhoids. It is also used to treat mouth and mucous membrane inflammations as they have considerable astringent action.

It became more popular when it was used during World War II by several soldiers. They have noticed significant improved night vision after taking bilberries and have been very interested thereafter with this fruit’s medicinal properties.

The most important part used as main component in herbal supplements is the dried ripe fruit or fresh fruit itself. It mainly contains catechin, tannins, invert sugar, vitamin C, fruits acids, and chromium which play an important role in its pharmacological action. The deep blue pigment color of the fruit is due to its constituent anthocyanosides that increases as the fruit ripens.

What are the health benefits of Billberry?

Main Actions:

The pharmacological effects of bilberry have not been tested with humans, so facts are generally taken inside the laboratory and animal research or mainly based on recognizable information about primary constituents found within the herb.

• Anti-edema
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Astringent
• Hypoglycemic activity
• Improves visual function
• Lowers cholesterol levels
• Protects gastrointestinal system

Other Actions:

• Anti-angiogenic
• Anti-cancer
• Anti-platelet

Known Uses:

In Europe, uses of bilberry extracts are more popular and have been investigated in several clinical experiments, mostly in non-English countries. Thus, many research papers have been available in other languages. To provide a more comprehensive description of the evidence easily accessible, secondary sources have been utilized as needed.

• Acute diarrhea
• Mild mouth and throat inflammation
• Hemorrhoids, varicose veins and venous insufficiency
• Ophthalmic conditions, improving night vision, photophobia, light adaptation and avoiding diabetic retinopathy

Pregnancy:

Bilberry was taken by women diagnosed of pregnancy induced hypertension and found significant improve symptoms of itching and burning, edema, leg cramps, pain and heaviness.

Other Uses:

It was anciently used as treatment for hemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, GI inflammatory conditions, diabetes, dysentery and inhibits lactation. Externally, its useful benefits include fast wound healing, ulcers and skin infection. Recently, it is used as treatment for venous insufficiency, Raynaud’s disease, peptic ulcers, nose bleed and bleeding gums.

Dosage Range

INTERNAL

• Fluid extract: 6–12 ml/day taken in three divided doses.
• Oral dose forms: provides 50–288 mg of anthocyanins daily.
• Decoction of dried herb: 5–10 gm of crushed, dried fruit in 150 ml of cold water boiled for 10 minutes and strained while hot. For diarrhea: drink the cold decoction several times a day.
• Gargle: Make a 10% decoction using the above preparation.
• Fresh fruit: 20–50 g daily.

EXTERNAL

• 5–10 g crushed dried fruit in 150 ml of cold water, boil for 10 minutes then strained while hot to make a decoction for local application.

Toxicity

High doses of bilberry were administered to rats, showing no adverse effects.

Adverse Reaction

• No adverse effect was known
• Only 4% experienced side-effects related to gastrointestinal tract, nervous system and skin.

Significant Interaction

Actual studies are not currently available, thus interactions are mainly theoretically or based on evidence of pharmacological actions with vague clinical implications.

• Anticoagulant
• Antiplatelet
• Hypoglycemic Agents
• Iron

Contraindications and Precautions

High dosage (more than 170 mg) should be use with caution by individuals having blood disorders.

Pregnancy Use

A study conducted with pregnant women having diagnosed of serious pregnancy-induce hypertension showed no evidence of adverse effects. Bilberry is likely to be safe when consumed in moderate amounts.

Supplement Reference:

• Bilberry extract is a well-known treatment for preventing and treating retinopathy in Western countries. It is however used to treat other eye health problems such as cataract, myopia, glaucoma, photophobia, glare sensitivity, poor light adaptation and night vision.
• Bilberry has an exceptionally amount of polyphenol as an essential ingredient. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and astringent actions make it incredibly magnificent. Laboratory results show an anti-cancer effect.
• Several studies suggest it may lower glucose level, as well as, triglycerides in diabetic patient. It can also prevent peptic ulcer from developing due to stress or NSAIDs. However, in-depth studies should be made to confirm these effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any safety health issues that need to consider?

• You don’t need to worry much as this berry is considered one of the safest herbs. Evidenced based theory explained bilberry reduces blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes and should be carefully monitored during the entire duration. Given at high doses can interact with anti-platelet drugs and warfarin.

What will this health supplement do for me?

• Billbery is mainly used to alleviate symptoms of mild diarrhea and promote good night vision, hemorrhoids, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, peptic ulcer, photophobia and glare sensitivity. It is also used as gargle mouthwash, paint for mild mouth and throat inflammation including pharyngitis and gingivitis.

When can I expect to see full-benefits of this herb?

• It will actually depend on the indication. Improvements in glare sensitivity, photophobia and night vision have been reported within 2-4 week in some individuals while other preventive effects are most likely to require long-term use. On the other hand, a person having diagnosed peripheral vascular disease may require 30 days of treatment before you could feel or see the result.

It is mainly composed of saponins such as astragalosides, cyclocanthosides, and cycloastragenol and suspected to be one of the major ingredients forming this powerful herb. Phytosterols, polysaccharides, essential oil, amino acid and flavonoids are as well incorporated. Astragalus is available either in oral and injectable forms.

What are the health benefits of Astragalus?

Main Actions

Astragalus has not been tested with humans. However animal test conducted inside the laboratory provide enough proof for its pharmacological actions.

• Boosts immune system
• Improves cardiac function, as well as, blood pressure
• Antioxidant
• Anti-Cancer or anti-tumor effects- can be use as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of some debilitating cancers.
• Digestive effects – strengthen the muscle tone and movement of the intestines
• Anti-inflammatory
• Improved sperm count and motility
• Protect liver function

Other Action

• Menopause

Known Uses:

Astragalus is often tested in combination with other herbal medicines. Thus, it is difficult from these trials to come to a decision the correct role of astragalus as a stand-alone management.

• Viral infection – commonly used as treatment against common colds and influenza
• Viral myocarditis
• Cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, angina pectoris
• Cancer – enhances effectiveness of chemotherapy, while reducing side-effects.
• Its traditional use belongs to Chinese herbal medicine system. Astragalus is used to vigor, tonify Qi (life energy) and the blood.
• Severe blood loss, sweating, shortness of breath, chronic diarrhea, organ prolapsed, anorexia, fatigue and to enhance recuperation.
• Lowers blood cholesterol level
• Asthma
• Memory deficit

Dosage Range

• Decoction: 8–12 g divided into two doses a day on an empty stomach.
• Dried root: 2–30 g/day.
• Liquid extract with ratio of 1:2 or solid dose equivalent: 4.5–8.5 ml/day.

Toxicity

Animal studies have shown very little incidence of toxicity that tends to occur to individuals with liver and kidney disease.

Adverse Reaction

• No known effects

Significant Interactions

• Immunosuppressant
• Positive Inotropic drugs
• Chemotherapy

Contraindications and Precautions

Astralagus should be avoided during the acute stage of an infection which is according to the principles of TCM.

Pregnancy Use

Safety is still not known. However, studies in animals reported no evidence of fetal damage.

Supplement Reference:

• It appears to be very well tolerated however, necessary precaution is a must.
• Astragalus is widely used as medicine to boost the immune system, reducing the incidence of common cold and influenza.
• Promote healing and reduce stress and fatigue.
• It is widely used to revitalize life and strengthen Qi or life energy and blood.
• Never use astragalus during periods of acute infection.
• It is often utilized in combination with other herbs such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Bupleurum chinense, and Codonopsis pilulosa in clinical practice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health safety issues that I need to consider prior to taking this herb?

• In general, astragalus appears to be safe, although it has the ability to interact with other medicines.

What will this herbal supplement do for me?

• Astragalus appears to have many health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, promote good digestion and adequate heart muscle contraction. Early research shows that it plays a great role in treatment of elevated cholesterol level, treatment of asthma, memory deficits and as an adjunct to chemotherapeutic drugs.

When can I see full-benefits of this herb?

• It actually depends on the dosage and current health condition of person taking this drug. However, several studies have shown that satisfying effects can star within the first two weeks of religiously taking the health supplement.

Aloe Vera or otherwise called Aloes, Barbados aloe or Curacao aloe has been traditionally used as herbal medicine. It was found out that during 2100 BC it has been already utilized, as evidently written in a Mesopotamian clay tablet. It is useful as treatment for wounds, burns and other skin conditions. Aloe Vera is classified as an anti-inflammatory agent, laxative, general tonic, aphrodiasiac and anti-worm by ancient races such as Spaniards, Indians, Arabs, Greeks, and Romans.

It is believed that Alexander the Great, the most popular king of Macedonia, conquered an island in the Indian Ocean which has an abundance of Aloe Vera, in order to treat his much-loved soldiers. In today’s society, Aloe Vera is used to ease skin diseases and treat burns. It is integrated in many beauty and skincare products, proving very satisfying results.

The part that is usually used in Aloe Vera is its magical leaf, from which several health products are made, namely the juice, extract, gel and the exudates. The exudates are yellow-colored, tastes bitter and has thick residue, coming from the latex. It is made of 99% water and sugar as well. The gel is a clear gel produced by the central part of the leaf. It contains several well-known beneficial minerals such as sodium, iron, zinc, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium. It also contains sufficient amount of folic acid, niacin, thiamine, vitamins A, B12, C, and E. On the other hand, diluted aloe gel is otherwise known as aloe juice or Aloe Vera extract.

What are the health benefits of Aloe Vera?

Main Actions

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Anti-ulcer
• Antiviral
• Assist in faster wound healing
• Boost immune system
• Hypoglycemic
• Laxative

Known Uses

Although Aloe Vera products have many uses, the main usage is really to treat skin conditions. Aloe is used to heal wounds at a faster rate, treat burns, ulcers, genital herpes, frostbite and psoriasis. The healing action may be due to its anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Most studies suggest that skin application of Aloe Vera gel is more effected in wound healing and effectively reduces bacteria. However, there are some negative studies, as it has been found that Aloe Vera gel composition varies, even within the same species. Composition mainly depends on the processing method used, including the region, climate, and source. Scientists also found out that Aloe Vera significantly reduced redness, dermatitis, wrinkling, irritation, dry skin and improved skin integrity.

Skin Conditions

• Burns
• Frostbite
• Genital Herpes
• HIV
• Psoriasis
• Radiation-induced dermatitis
• Ulcers

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Ulcerative Colitis

Other Uses

• Asthma
• Cancer
• Diabetes

Dosage Range

• Aloe Vera gel: fresh from a living plant or as stabilized juice of 25 ml, which can be used up to four times a day.
• Extracts standardized to acemannan: each preparation should contain up to 800 mg/day.
• Topical application: gel, cream or ointment as required.
• 1.5–4.5 ml daily of 1:10 tincture of resin (latex).

Adverse Reaction

A 47-year old man claimed he was hypersensitive and was able to manifest contact dermatitis, generalized rashes and itchiness with 4 years intake of oral and topical Aloe Vera. On the other hand, patch tests for aloe also resulted same results.

Significant Interactions

Precaution should be considered when taking Aloe Vera with the following drugs.

• Hypoglycemic Agents
• Laxatives
• Topical Steroid Preparations

Contraindications and Precautions

• Caution with person with thyrotoxicosis
• Children: avoid strong laxative
• Depression and reduced T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)
• Do not use for more than 2 weeks, as potassium can be depleted, which may possibly harm the heart
• Hypersensitive to Aloe
• Person suffering from nausea, vomiting, or other signs of GI obstruction

Pregnancy Use

• Strong laxative such as aloe latex are contraindicated.

* Known Benefits

• Aloe may be beneficial adjunct as treatment of chronic fatigue, cancer, HIV, and treatment of chronic poor immunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What benefits can I get from this herb?

• Aloe Vera has been proven to be very effective in treating wounds, burns, and other skin inflammation. However, the composition of Aloe Vera products may vary depending on processing factor and geographical location. It is also used as treatment for GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal ulcer and dyspepsia.

When can I expect its full therapeutic action?

• Aloe has an immediate health effect on skin inflammation and burns. Improvement can be noticed after several days or week of usage, with satisfying results. However, chronic illnesses may require long-term use. But, if use as laxative, it can produce result in 12-24 hours only.

Are there any safety health issues that I need to consider?

• As what experts say, aloe gel is non-toxic and safe to use. However, avoid chronic use of laxative preparations containing highly irritant compound called anthraquinone glycosides, mostly found in the latex.

Technically, even our skulls – the parts that don’t move – were once considered “joints.” But, for our purposes, joints are places our bodies move and connect. Joints are formed by flexible connective tissues that hold bones together and allow range of movement. The ends of joints are covered with cartilage that protects the bones by reducing friction and absorbing shock when the bones move. (Yep – same as the yucky stuff you’ll notice when you’re eating chicken or turkey legs.) The joint cavity is filled with a fluid that lubricates and protects the joint while providing oxygen and nutrients and removing wastes. Ligaments help to reinforce joints and add stability. In the body, glucosamine is a main ingredient of the fluids and cushioning tissues that surround our joints. Glucosamine sulfate is simply a clinically studied form of glucosamine used in supplements, including GS-500™ dietary supplements. To date, more than 20 clinical studies using glucosamine sulfate have been reported, with nearly 3,000 patients receiving either glucosamine sulfate or placebo. These studies show a favorable response to glucosamine sulfate vs. placebo in supporting healthy joint function.† In fact, in one randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 202 patients, those who received glucosamine sulfate for three years showed greater knee health than those who took the placebo.† Those taking glucosamine sulfate had a healthier joint structure compared to those on placebo, as well as having joint function improve by 20-25 percent.† You’ve probably seen glucosamine in different forms, including glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. We selected glucosamine sulfate because of its high absorption and because the majority of successful clinical trials have used glucosamine sulfate rather than glucosamine hydrocholoride. We simply consider it the preferred form.  Published March 19, 2010

Are you suffering from pain related debilitating diseases such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis? In that case, Hyaluronic acid supplements could be the answer to your dilemma. This dietary supplement helps keep the cartilage, cushioning the joints flexible and strong. It also increases the production of synovial fluid, a lubricating fluid, preventing our joints from friction.

These dietary supplements have been proven effectively in alleviating pain in both osteoarthritis and rheumatism. However, the Hyaluronic acid injectible is the only form that has been approved by FDA for medical use.

Eighty percent of participants in one study had 12 months significant relief of their agonizing arthritic symptoms immediately after Hyaluronic acid injections were given. After which, more injections were required to sustain results.

Hyaluronic acid is normally present and plays a significant role in our body system. It detoxifies our cell of poor blood supply and delivers adequate amount of nutrients throughout the body. Retention of water in body tissues is also one function of Hyaluronic acid. Our joints will become brittle and weak if there is inadequate Hyaluronic acid in the body.

As we have noticed, Hyaluronic acid is gaining popularity in the medical and cosmetic industries recently. In order to hydrate our skin and maintain a smoother, vibrant skin, experts included Hyaluronic acid in their products. It also helps in the healing process of wounds and reduces scars gradually.

Restylane is an example of injectible Hyaluronic acid filler making you look younger, reducing fine lines, sagging, and scars brought about by acne.

However, both medical and cosmetic applications are not permanent mainly because most Hyaluronic acid breaks down and is absorbed in the body. Repeated treatments will be necessary because HA augmentation only last 5-9 months.

Hyaluronic acid is available in injection and oral supplements at any pharmacies, health food stores and trustworthy online distributor. After 2 to 4 months of oral supplement intake, significant improvement for most participants was noted.  What more is their usual dosage was reduced after desired results are achieved.

What’s good with this dietary supplement is that, no serious side-effects were noted. Although few people experienced skin irritation at the injection site. As long as appropriate intake of dosage prescribed by doctor is being followed, maximum efficacy can be obtained.

As we age, we often experience join pain particularly in our knees, elbows and hands. This is because of physiologic processes occurring in our body. For instance, synovial fluid, responsible for cushioning and lubricating our joint diminishes resulting to a condition called Arthritis.

Glucosamine is formed in the body, a byproduct of sugar and amino acid, glutamine. It produces Glycosaminoglycan, a molecule used in the formation and repair of cartilage and other body tissues. Sad to say, production of glucosamine reduces with age.

Glucosamine is a compound found naturally in the body. It is one of the most common non-vitamin, non-mineral, dietary supplements used by adults in Western countries. According to research, Glucosamine has indeed been proven in some clinical studies to help ease joint pains caused by osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by decreased amounts of cartilage at the joints, rheumatoid arthritis and any other degenerative disorders.

Glucosamine supplement is marketed as a treatment of osteoarthritis. It is often sold, together with other supplements such as Chondroitin Sulfate and Methylsulfonylmethane. Many supplements marketed as a treatment for joint pain or chronic back pain contain both Glucosamine Sulfate and Chondroitin Sulfate as the chief active ingredients.

Glucosamine supplementation can help lessen and in some cases reduce dependency on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Overdosage of NSAIDs have been known to cause stomach upset, and is also linked to liver and kidney failure, but some research indicates that Glucosamine is actually safe to use and very effective nonprescription alternative to these drugs.

Studies have shown that Glucosamine works with NSAIDs to include Ibuprofen and Piroxicam (Feldene). However, it may take few weeks to months before improvements in symptoms are noticed. Benefits are worth the waiting and can be manifested shortly after correct intake of this dietary supplement.

Supplementation with Glucosamine after any injury involving the vertebrae or joint such as osteoarthritis, chronic back pain, and even normal aging process make these dietary supplements beneficial to the public.

Did you know that Glucosamine is not found naturally in foods? Nowadays, supplements are available already. They are come in three different forms: Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Glucosamine Sulfate and N-acetyl Glucosamine.

Glucosamine sulfate in general considered the most useful for producing cartilage, particularly when combined with Vitamin C, Manganese, and Chondroitin. Combination of supplements containing these three important nutrients are by now available.

Glucosamine is available in different forms: capsule, liquid, powder, and tablet forms. The usual dose is around 1,500 mg of Glucosamine Sulfate each day. Taking Glucosamine supplements regularly is important for maximum efficacy.

A very powerful “universal antioxidant” called Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Lipoic Acid or Thioctic Acid) is generally found in our body. It plays a very important role as it functions to convert glucose (blood sugar) into energy. It also neutralizes potentially harmful free radicals and helps Vitamin B convert fat, protein and carbohydrates into energy efficiently.

Lipoic Acid are normally produced by our body, but can also be derived from foods such as broccoli, spinach, peas, rice bran, organ meats and Brewer’s yeast. But are mostly not enough for our body’s daily needs.

There are lots of benefits that can be derived from this supplement and is mostly favorable to humans. As such, it detoxifies the body, helps decrease inflammation, and stabilizes blood sugar.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is thought to work as an antioxidant and considered both water and fat soluble supplements meaning it can penetrate body tissues; mainly compose of fats resembling our nervous system. Another, is our heart that is chiefly made-up of water.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid helps the body use other vitamins and antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Glutathione. As of present, Alpha-Lipoic Acid is considered one of the most well-known powerful antioxidant. It helps enhance the most abundant natural antioxidant called Glutathione preventing damage caused by free-radicals.

We all know that free-radicals are very harmful to our body, it is also the main cause of aging which decreases our immune system, making the body at risk for infections, including the two leading cause of death in Western Countries: Heart disease and Cancer.

Studies found out that Alpha Lipoic Acid may actually help! According to one of the largest research, 181 people took 600 mg, 1200 mg or 1800 mg of Alpha Lipoic acid daily, as well as, placebo. After five weeks of consistently taking these supplements, they were able to note improved symptoms. The recommended dose that was best tolerated was 600 mg once daily.

Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements can be bought in capsule form at any health food stores, some reputable health food store and even online. For maximum absorption and efficacy, the supplements should be taken on an empty stomach. 

Did you know that a fungus can be beneficial to humans? This is most definitely true and with this knowledge, experts were able to discover a powerful dietary supplement called Cordyceps, otherwise known as “Chinese Caterpillar” herb. Cordyceps is actually a fungus parasite and has been utilized in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Its efficacy has been witnessed by millions of its user and it is definitely safe to use by any age group as these commercially manufactured supplements are grown on different plant sources and are carefully monitored.

This dietary supplement has been proven to be very effective in promoting overall good health. Research also shows that Cordyceps is indeed beneficial to the liver, heart, kidneys; but not only that, it can also boost our immune system.

Cordyceps are antioxidant, which plays a very important role against diseases and can even protect our body against harmful radicals. Here are few testimonials of how this powerful supplement has been beneficial and have totally changed their life.  Recently, Chinese and Japanese men suffering from impotence were able to take this supplement and amazingly the result was very affirmative, with 64% successful rate. For instance, according to some scientist, Cordyceps can also increase sex drive, improve lung function and boost energy. 

Long ago, Chinese athletes use Cordyceps to help enhance endurance and stamina.  But, what does this supplement exactly do to our body?  It essentially helps improve oxygen supply & body circulation; thereby, body organs can function very well.

A lot of research has been done with this dietary supplement. In one study published in Health, experts have noted that athletes consistently taking 4.5 grams of Cordyceps daily for six weeks had an affirmative benefits which have then twofold oxygen intake.

The most potent Cordyceps Supplement, are those found in Tibetan regions. These dietary supplements are available in some Chinese stores. On the other hand, this form is very costly, which can be sold at around $10/ gram. 

There are also rumors that Cordyceps is harmful to humans because of the risk of lead poisoning. But is this really true? This is because fungus harvesters attach a lead filament to this plant for additional weight, and not to mention its prices as well! However, dietary supplements containing Cordyceps are less-expensive and safer alternative; with no significant side-effects at all!

Cordyceps comes in different forms. It is available in extract, capsule, and tincture form at any health food stores and can also be bought from a reliable online store. It is, however, suggested to take only 2-3 grams daily with meals to avoid any unfavorable effects.

Asthma is the most common chronic disease of children and adolescence. It is caused by bronchial spasm, restricting the flow of air in and out of the lungs. The bronchi are persistently hypersensitive and inflamed. Many factors can trigger asthmatic attacks. The most common allergens known are food, pet hair, chemicals, tobacco smoke, viral infection, stress, inhaling cold air and physical exhaustion. With the presence of allergens, a chemical called histamine is released in the body resulting to coughing and further bronchial muscle constriction.

Treatments include managing acute attacks, as well as, long term prevention and control. The herbs ephedra and lobelia are used in acute attacks. Taking up to 3 cups of caffeine can also prevent asthmatic attacks. Caffeine are considered bronchodilator, meaning it relaxes the bronchial muscles. Identifying and eliminating allergens is necessary. Other possible allergens are colas, MSG, chocolate, nuts, eggs and food additives. Also, meat and dairy product are a fat rich substance, which has an inflammatory effect to the human body. Drinking adequate water keeps the respiratory tract clear from secretions.

The good news for asthmatic person is that you can live your life normally. Modern treatments for asthma, if followed religiously, permit most people with asthma to limit the number of attacks they have. With the help of your doctor, you can absolutely take control of your health and your life.

Nutritional Supplements: 

• Vitamin C—10 to 30 mg per 2-lb body weight, taken in divided doses, an antihistamine.
• Quercetin—400 to 1000 mg three times daily, an antihistamine.
• Magnesium—200 to 400 mg, prevents spasms of the bronchial passages.
• Selenium—45 to 200 mcg, if deficient.
• Bromelain—an anti-inflammatory.
• Vitamin B6—50 to 200 mg, decreases frequency of attacks.
• Vitamin B12—1 g, especially effective for sulfite sensitive asthmatics.

Herbal Supplements:

• Anise, fennel—have compounds that loosen bronchial secretions.
• Ginkgo biloba—120 to 140 mg extract or 3 to 4 ml tincture three times daily, contains compounds that block the action of a platelet activating factor that can cause asthmatic symptoms.
• Lobelia—mix three parts tincture to one part tincture of capsicum and take 20 drops in water at start of attack and repeat every 30 minutes three or four times.
• Marshmallow, mullein, licorice—have soothing actions on the respiratory tract.
• Stinging nettle—an antihistamine.

Aromatherapy:

• Chamomile, lavender or eucalyptus—can be used as steam inhalation during and after attack, opens airways and relieves panic.
• Eucalyptus, juniper, wintergreen—dilute mixture with carrier oil and apply to chest nightly.
• Frankincense—an antiasthmatic; strengthens immune system.
• Khella—relieves spasms of the bronchial muscles; can be combined with creeping hyssop to prevent attacks; do not apply to skin.
• Moroccan chamomile—an anti-inflammatory and antiasthmatic; relieves allergic symptoms.

Chinese Medicine:

• Acupuncture—relieves symptoms; controls bronchial spasms.
• Almond

Homeopathy:

• Arsenicum album
• Carbo vegetabilis
• Chamomilla
• Ipecacuanha
• Lachesis
• Lobelia
• Natrum sulphuricum
• Nux vomica
• Pulsatilla
• Spongia tosta

 Ayurvedic Medicine:

• Ashwagandha
• Ginger
• Licorice—1 to 2 g powdered root or 2 to 4 ml extract three times daily, has anti-inflammatory and antiallergenic properties, an expectorant, glycyrrhetinic acid component has cortisol-like activity, can be taken with ephedra or tylophora.
• Sida cordifolia
• Triphala
• Tylophora asthmatica—200 mg dried or 40 mg extract twice daily has antihistamine and antispasmodic activity.