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Capsicum, aptly described as the plant that bites back, is a common condiment in certain diets. The plant grows in warm climates and has been used for decades as a catalyst for the other herbs. Its red color is partly due to its high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is essential for normal vision, growth, cellular activity, reproduction and healthy immunity. The Capsicum family includes Red Peppers, Bell Peppers, Pimento, and Paprika, but the most famous medicinal member of this family is the common Cayenne Pepper. Because Capsicum stimulates circulation and enhances blood flow, it is considered a food for the circulatory system, and a common condiment to the diet. As a cardiovascular stimulant, Capsicum assists in lowering blood pressure and breaking down cholesterol buildup. The warming properties of Capsicum are useful for people suffering from poor circulation to the hands and feet and other related conditions. Capsicum has been used as a digestive aid to ease intestinal inflammation, stimulate protective mucus membranes of the stomach, and also relieve pain caused by ulcers. Capsicum is commonly used to buffer pain from other ailments, including arthritis, varicose veins, headaches, menstrual cramps and respiratory conditions such as asthma. |
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Garlic has long been used by many cultures to support a variety of health conditions. Garlic is considered to be Nature's very own antibiotic. Unlike most antibiotics, Garlic will not deplete the body of flora, and is considered to be the cure-all herb because of its effectiveness on the entire body. Popularly used as a digestive aid , Garlic increases bile production while enhancing digestion and reducing stomach gases. Garlic's strong odor is due mostly to a sulfide called allicin. For those who like to steer clear from Garlic's odor, an encapsulated form a standardized "odorless" Garlic can eliminate any unpleasant odor and taste. Garlic is a source of selenium, which must be present in the body for proper immune response, and which acts as an antioxidant in combination with vitamin E. Rich in potassium, zinc, selenium, and Vitamins A and C, Garlic is commonly used to fight infection, increase circulation and help prevent cardiovascular disease. Garlic has been known to detoxify the body by cleansing the kidneys and increasing urine flow. Furthermore, Garlic's healing properties make it an ideal agent for fighting colds and flu, bacteria, and fungi. Garlic has also been used for lowering cholesterol, reducing high blood pressure, and treating respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. |
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Hawthorne, sometimes spelled Hawthorn, is also known by the names Haw, May Blossom, May Day Flower, and White Thorn. Hawthorne Leaves have been used since the 19th century to support the heart, and to normalize cardiovascular functions. Today, Hawthorne Leaves are one of the most popular herbs used in Europe, and gaining wider acceptance in the United States. Primary chemical constituents of this herb include Vitamin C, flavonoids (quercetin, quercetrin), glycosides, proanthocyanidins, anthocynaidins, saponins, tannins, and cratetegin. Hawthorne Leaves appear to work best when taken as a preventative herb, possibly helping reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. With its high content of bioflavonoids, Hawthorne Leaves best support the heart. Hawthorne increases the body's ability to utilize oxygen, and the heart's ability to utilize calcium. This herb can actually help regulate both high and low blood pressure, in addition to slowly breaking down cholesterol and fat deposits in the body. The bioflavonoids help strengthen the contractive force of the heart, and gently dilate and relax the coronary blood vessels, improving overall circulation.
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