Marshmallow is a native of most countries of Europe, from Denmark southward, and is found in the western U.S. It grows in salt marshes, in damp meadows, by the sides of ditches, by the sea, and on the banks of tidal rivers. Marshmallow has been utilized for thousands of years for its healing properties as an herbal remedy. Primary chemical constituents of Marshmallow include mucilage, polysaccharides, flavonoids, asparagine, tannins, lecithin, and pectin. The great demulcent and emollient properties of Marshmallow make it useful in inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, and of the urinary and respiratory organs. Recently, Marshmallow has been used as an expectorant to treat a variety of upper respiratory problems. Marshmallow contains large amounts of vitamin A, calcium, zinc and significant amounts of iron, sodium, iodine, and B-complex. Like slippery elm, Marshmallow reduces inflammation and has a calming effect on the body. The active constituents in Marshmallow are large carbohydrate molecules, which make up the mucilage. This smooth, slippery substance can soothe and protect irritated mucous membranes. Although Marshmallow has primarily been used for the respiratory and digestive tracts, its high mucilage content may also provide some minor relief for urinary tract and skin infections. Marshmallow's mucilage content helps soothe inflamed tissues, often caused by bronchitis and asthma. Marshmallow also relieves dryness and irritation in the chest and throat, usually brought on by colds and persistent coughs. Marshmallow has been known to relieve indigestion, kidney problems, urinary tract infections, and even external skin wounds such as boils and abscesses. |
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Fenugreek , also known as Greek Hay, is an erect annual herb, growing about 2 feet high. The Latin name for Fenugreek, Trigonella, means "triangle shaped pale yellow flower", and " foenum graecum " means "Greek hay". Ancient Egyptians would eat the greens of this plant as a vegetable and use the seeds as incense and as part of their embalming formulas. Women in harems would eat Fenugreek seeds in the belief that they would become more desirable. The seeds were burned as an incense to aid childbirth in Egypt. Today, Fenugreek is known to support the respiratory system. Fenugreek relieves congestion, reduces inflammation and fights infection. Fenugreek contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, and loosens & removes excess mucus and phlegm. Fenugreek is also an excellent source of selenium, an anti-radiant which helps the body utilize oxygen. Fenugreek is a natural source of iron, silicon, sodium and thiamine. Fenugreek contains mucilagins which are known for soothing and relaxing inflamed tissues. Fenugreek stimulates the production of mucosal fluids helping remove allergens and toxins from the respiratory tract. Acting as an expectorant, Fenugreek alleviates coughing, stimulates perspiration to reduce fevers, and is beneficial for treating allergies, bronchitis and congestion. The steroidal saponins account for many of the beneficial effects of Fenugreek, particularly the inhibition of cholesterol absorption and synthesis. The seeds are rich in dietary fiber, which may be the main reason it can lower blood sugar levels in diabetes. Note: avoid during pregnancy, as it can be a uterine stimulant.
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