American Ginseng is an adaptogen, having a sedative effect on the central nervous system that grows in the northeast U.S. and Canada. Ginseng was valued by the Native Americans long before White settlers began to popularize it. Wild American Ginseng gained popularity in the 1700s, when French Jesuit Priests returned to Paris with a sample they had found in southern Canada. Sensing the potential profits from the plant, Jesuits sent Missionaries to Canada to find more of the plant, and for several years the Jesuits shipped tons of American Ginseng to China. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), compared to the Korean species (Panax ginseng), is one of the most popular forms of Ginseng being used today.... and the most expensive. Normalizing system levels of the body, American Ginseng has been used to lower cholesterol, increase energy levels, balance metabolism and stimulate the immune system. American Ginseng may also be used to alleviate fatigue, relieve nervousness and reduce stress, especially after acute illnesses. American Ginseng increases oxygenation to the cells and tissues, stimulating the regeneration of damaged cells. For this reason, American Ginseng is commonly used to enhance the feeling of overall well being, stimulating the nervous system, brain and heart. The cooling and anti-inflammatory properties found in American Ginseng may also be used to help reduce fevers and relieve respiratory problems, including dry coughing and wheezing. American Ginseng's botanical genus, Panax, is derived from the Greek word, panakos, meaning "panacea." American Ginseng is considered to have more 'cooling' properties than its Asian counterparts. |
Citrus Bioflavonoids are natural substances found in plants, fruits, vegetables, nuts, bark and buckwheat. Citrus Bioflavonoids help protect capillaries, prevent bruising and intensify the effects of vitamin C in the body. In fact, Bioflavonoids are essential for total vitamin C effectiveness. Citrus Bioflavonoids provide natural antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. In addition, certain Bioflavonoids are beneficial for fighting infections, free radical damage, viruses and common colds. Bioflavonoids have also been used to help alleviate symptoms related to allergies and respiratory conditions. Citrus Bioflavonoids are sometimes considered vitamins because they possess the properties of a vitamin, and they are sometimes referred to as vitamin P. They are found in several forms, including Hesperidin, eriodictyl, Quercetin and Rutin. They cannot be produced by the body, and therefore have to be taken as dietary supplements. Typical sources for Bioflavonoids also include the natural substances found in the peels of citrus fruits, peppers and black currants. Other sources include apricots, cherries, grapefruit, grapes, lemons, limes, oranges, prunes and rose hips. The Bioflavonoid, Quercetin, is typically available in capsule form as a supplement by itself. Rutin, commonly used in vitamin C supplements to boost its effectiveness, is derived from the buckwheat plant (and others), and provides a non-acidic source of vitamin C. Daily use of Bioflavonoids can be helpful to those suffering from bruising, varicose veins, spider veins, arthritis, hemorrhage, phlebitis, high cholesterol levels, herpes, cataracts, general inflammation, bleeding gums, blood clots, scurvy, hemorrhoids, edema and hypertension. |
