Asparagus
(Asparagus officinalis) is a highly regarded herb worldwide. Chinese
pharmacists save the best roots of the asparagus plant for their families and
friends in the belief that it will increase feelings of compassion and love. In
India, this herb is used to promote fertility, reduce menstrual cramping, and
increase milk production in nursing mothers. In the Western world, it has been
touted as an aphrodisiac.
These customs and beliefs are not mere superstition: Asparagus root contains compounds called steroid glycosides that directly affect hormone production and may very well influence emotions. An excellent diuretic, asparagus is also very nutritious. It is high in folic acid, which is essential for the production of new red blood cells. Many herbal healers recommend Asparagus root for rheumatism, due to the anti-inflammatory action of the steroidal glycosides. Powdered seed from the Asparagus plant is effective for calming an upset stomach.
Possible benefits in the uses of Asparagus are: stimulation of hormone production, helps rid the body of excess water and salt, and helps prevent anemia due to folic acid deficiency. Asparagus also soothes pain and swelling of joints due to rheumatism or arthritis.
There are many oral uses of the Asparagus plant. One use is to eat the young shoots and seeds. The seed is also available in powdered form. Take 1 teaspoon of powder daily in juice. There is one exception to the use of Asparagus: do not use if your kidneys are inflamed, because it increases the rate of urinary production.
[_private/nav_av9.htm][_private/navbar9.htm]
