Eyebright is popular flowering plant commonly used in herbal medicine. Eyebright (Euphrasia) gets its name from the plant’s use in treating eye infections.

In the wild, Eyebright grows in alpine meadows and grassy places where snow is common in Bulgaria and Hungary. The plant flowers in late summer and autumn.

Eyebright isn’t costly or rare, it often grows by the side of the road and it’s available as a supplement at most health food stores and online stores like Lucky Vitamin.

Eyebright continues to be used for the topical treatment of eye inflammations, including conjunctivitis. Traditionally, a compress made from a decoction of eyebright is used to give relief from redness, swelling, and visual disturbances due to eye infections.

In addition, Eyebright tea is given internally along with the topical treatment. It has also been used for the treatment of eye fatigue and other disturbances of vision.

Always thought of it as a remedy for eye problems, Eyebright supplements may offer additional benefits. Studies have confirmed that regular supplementation can improve memory and herbalists have recommended eyebright for problems of the respiratory tract, including sinus infections, coughs, hay fever and sore throat.

Many herbalists believe that eyebright can help relieve the numerous symptoms associated with allergies. Eyebright contains many chemicals, including caffeic acid, which may explain the antibacterial effects.

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“I don’t remember”. How many times have you said this sentence? Multiple times, that’s for sure. But let’s think about the past month or even just the past week?

If you continue to say it periodically, you could benefit from a natural memory enhancer. Our hectic lifestyle is one of the reasons we aren’t able to remember everything. Some people often forget names, numbers, addresses or information needed on a daily basis and, for the most part, that’s not a major problem.

However, when lack of memory creates major inconveniences and becomes a serious issue, that’s the time a natural memory enhancer could help you.

Ginkgo Biloba is one of the best natural products to enhance memory. Ginkgo supplements are well-known for its effects on memory and thinking.

Medicinal use of Ginkgo Biloba dates back almost 5,000 years in Chinese herbal medicine. Ginkgo Biloba is the world’s oldest living species of tree, which can live as long as 1,000 years and the leaves are normally used for supplements. Ginkgo supplements used as memory and concentration enhancers are usually taken in the range of 40–200 mg per day.

Ginkgo promotes antioxidant activity supporting the brain and central nervous system. Studies have shown that ginkgo extracts may help increasing circulation to the brain and other parts of the body and may exert a protective action on nerve cells, regulating the tone and elasticity of blood vessels, making circulation more efficient.

Ginkgo can significantly improve attention in healthy individuals. Allegedly, the effect is almost immediate and reaches its peak in about two hours after the intake.

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	Natural Factors Ginkgo Biloba 60 mg. - 60 Capsules
	Nature’s Answer Ginkgo Biloba Alcohol Free - 1 oz.
	Irwin Naturals Ginkgo Smart Advanced Ginkgo Smart - 60 Softgels

Oregano Oil has been one of the top selling herbal supplements for years. Most products are sourced from wild-crafted true oregano (Origanum vulgare), an aromatic herb originally from the Mediterranean region.

Studies continue to confirm the favorable results of oregano oil. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition published the results of a study by researchers from Georgetown University. In the study, researchers found that oregano oil has similar germ-killing properties as various antibiotics.

That’s just one more reason to add oregano to your supplement list. Known for its culinary uses, particularly in pizzas, salads and pastas, oregano has been used to support the immune system, joint health and the digestive system.

Oregano is high on antioxidant activity which is one of the most important factors for healthy digestion. Oregano oils thymol and caryacrol are believed to be the main sources of its benefits as it may cure mild stomach problems and regulate bowel movement.

In addition, oil of oregano aids joint lubrication and restore mobility and can be an alternative for people struggling with products such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Finally, oil of oregano supplements may enhance the immune system. Oregano is such a potent anti-fungal agent that is capable of destroying resistant fungal forms. For example, studies have tested oregano supplements against many different types of infection with positive results for anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, anti-viral and anti-bacterial actions.

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	Nature’s Way Oregano Oil Standardized Extract - 60 Vegetarian Capsules
	North American Herb & Spice Super Strength Oreganol Caps - 60 Softgels
	Solaray Oil Of Oregano 150 mg. - 60 Softgels

Traditionally, rosemary has been an herb of memory, relied on by the Ancient Greeks when studying, thrown into graves as a symbol of remembrance and woven into weddings to represent fidelity.  But time and testing have proven that the pungent herb awakens more than the mind. It stimulates the immune system, aiding digesting and circulation, and has been known to lessen the severity of asthma attacks. And now it is thought to fight cancer by fighting acrylamide.

Acrylamide is a substance that has presumably been present in foods for thousands of years, forming when carbohydrate-dense products are fried, baked, roasted or grilled at temperatures above 120 degrees.  However, it has only just been discovered by scientists, and so the FDA is unsure of how it affects the body. Animal tests label it a carcinogen, and human tests suggest that it may cause nerve damage. Both possibilities are alarming enough to have stimulated an Action Plan and rounds of studies.

One such study has found that rosemary can significantly lessen the amount of acrylamide present in foods.  It doesn’t take much, just a bit tossed into dough before bread is baked or something similar cooked, and you have a lower level of a possibly deadly substance.

Rosemary’s power is matched only by its scent and taste – both of which are pungent, intoxicating and delightful. Adding a little bit to your diet shouldn’t be difficult. It can flavor meats, soups, sauces, breads, dips and anything else you can imagine. But be careful. It is strong. Too much of the herb could eclipse the other nuances of your dish, leaving you healthier but not happier.

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	Avalon Active Organics Rosemary Hand & Body Lotion - 12 Oz.
	EAS Phosphagen Elite Fruit Punch - 20 Serving(s)
	Jason Natural Products Salon Lavender & Rosemary Curl Defining Cream - 5 oz.

Herb of the Week is back on Lucky Blog. Today, we will talk about a very popular herb in Chinese herbal medicine: Astragalus.

Astragalus is native to northern China and has been used medicinally for years. The portion of the plant used is the root, normally collected in the spring. While over 2,000 types of astragalus exist worldwide, the Chinese version has been extensively tested chemically and is generally used in the production of natural supplements.

Astragalus is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body’s functions and has been used to support multiple health concerns including the common cold, sore throat, hepatitis and prevention of heart attack. In addition, Astragalus supplements have been successfully used to enhance the immune system.

Astragalus contains numerous components, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, amino acids, and trace minerals. Several preliminary clinical trials in China have suggested that astragalus can significantly benefit immune function.

Furthermore, a double-blind trial found that, in people undergoing dialysis for kidney failure, intravenous astragalus improved one facet of immune function compared to the immune function of untreated people. Studies have also shown that astragalus root might benefit people with chronic viral hepatitis.

Several natural products for the immune system contain herbal formulations including astragalus as one of the ingredients. Herbal blend formulas generally help maximize results to enhance the immune system.

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	Herbs for Kids Echinacea/Astragalus Blend - 4 oz.
	Root To Health Astragalus & American Ginseng - 10 Vial(s)

A recent report shows that ginger may help chemotherapy patients with nausea. The study was funded by the National Cancer Institute and will be presented later this month at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting.

Chemotherapy may cause nausea, which may be alleviated through ginger, more specifically ginger purified supplements. About 70 percent of cancer patients experience nausea during chemo treatment and could use a safe and natural product to feel better during recovery.

Ginger supplements may provide the relief needed as researchers found a smidgen of purified ginger could reduce chemotherapy-related nausea by 40 percent on the first day of treatment when used in combination with traditional anti-nausea medications.

Ginger supplementation may reduce vomiting as well. The results should not surprise anyone as ginger has been used as a powerful herbal medicine for many years.

People have been using ginger for the treatment of motion sickness and morning sickness. It can also support abdominal bloating, vomiting and diarrhea. Nausea generally occurs when traveling by boat or plane. Transcontinental flights are known for causing nausea and ginger capsules of chews may help minimizing this inconvenient sensation.

Moreover, ginger can support the digestive system and has been recommended to relief stomachaches and indigestion. The herb has the capability of transporting substances through the digestive tract, lessening irritation to the intestinal walls, the usual cause of abdominal pain.

Whether is nausea or vomiting, ginger supplements may help you to feel better.

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	Solaray Ginger Root - 100 Capsules
	New Chapter Daily Ginger Extract - 2 oz.

Oil of oregano is an extract from the oregano plant.

Most products are sourced from wild-crafted true oregano (Origanum vulgare), an aromatic herb originally from the Mediterranean region.

Most people know oregano from its culinary uses, particularly in pizzas, salads and pastas.

However, oil of oregano has been used to solve various health problems for hundreds of years and can be taken on a daily basis without side effects.

If you are still not sure about this incredible herbal product, we will give you three reasons to consider taking oil of oregano supplements.

First, oil of oregano can support the digestive system. Oregano is high on antioxidant activity which is one of the most important factors for healthy digestion. Oregano oils thymol and caryacrol are believed to be the main sources of its benefits. Supplementation can cure mild stomach problems and help to regulate bowel movement.

Second, oil of oregano can be an efficient product to support joint health. The Ancient Greek used to treat joint problems with oregano oil as some of its ingredients can aid joint lubrication and restore mobility.

Third, oil of oregano is a terrific product to support the immune system. Oregano is such a potent anti-fungal agent that is capable of destroying resistant fungal forms. Supplementation has been tested and proved against many different types of infection to exert a high degree of anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, anti-viral and anti-bacterial actions.

Finally, one more tip about oil of oregano. P73 is commonly found on product’s labels. P73 stands for polyphenol 73%, a blend of edible species of wild oregano. P73 is the most extensively researched product form and is three times more concentrated than regular oil of oregano.

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	North American Herb & Spice Oreganol Cream - 2 oz.
	Source Naturals Wellness Oil of Oregano - 1 oz.

Spirulina is in the news these days but some people have no idea what this unfamiliar name and product is, and what benefits you can get from taking it.

Spirulina is a single-celled fresh water algae, which is an incredible source of nutrients. Spirulina is particularly rich in protein but it also contains carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids.

People have been taking spirulina as a dietary supplement for many years. It helps to regulate cholesterol levels, improve bowel functions, healthful bacteria, anti-viral activity, enhances immune function and can repair DNA. This algae is cultivated around the world and is available in tablet, flake and powder form.

Spirulina contains very high amounts of protein and all essential amino acids and it is superior to typical plant protein, such as protein obtained from legumes.

If you don’t like vegetables but would like to replenish the lack of nutrients from your diet, spirulina can be the replacement product you have been looking for.

Taking spirulina tablets is like taking a B-Complex because it contains vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, B9 and B12.

In addition, spirulina is a great source of minerals.  Spirulina supplements are a rich source of potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc. After all, taking spirulina tablets is like taking a multi-mineral as well.

In conclusion, regular supplementation of spirulina may help to maintain a healthy immune system because this incredible product provides nutrients to prevent the common cold and flu.

 3 Comments, latest by Mauricio Matusiak, Senior Editor

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Triphala is a combination consisting of equal parts of three fruits: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica) and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).

This Ayurvedic herbal formula has been used for thousands of years to promote appetite and digestion, to increase the number of red blood cells and to aid in removal of undesirable fat in the body.

Triphala’s historical use as a digestive cleanser has been backed up with numerous modern scientific studies. The components of this herb have a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract and its potent antioxidant capacity can protect cells against damaging effects of free radicals.

Internal cleansing is extremely important because it helps to improve overall digestion, reducing conditions of stagnation and excess, as well as increasing assimilation of nutrients.

In addition, Triphala has a significant medicinal value as a potential detoxifying and anti-cancer agent. This powerful herb has the ability to induce cytotoxicity (cell death) in tumor cells but spared the normal cells.

Antioxidant studies conducted at The Radiation Chemistry and Chemical Dynamics Division in Trombay, India, revealed that all three constituents of Triphala are active and exhibit slightly different activities under different conditions.

Triphala supplements represent the perfect balance of Ayurvedic tradition and modern science. Regular supplementation is generally more efficient due to the combined activity of the individual components in the human system.

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	Nature’s Formulary Triphala - 60 Vegetarian Capsules
	Planetary Formulas Triphala Internal Cleanser 1000 mg. - 180 Tablets
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Red Clover (Trifolium pretense) is a species of clover originally from Europe and North America. Also knows as wild clover, this beautiful plant has white arrow-shaped patters on their leaves and the flowering tops are commonly used in botanical medicine. Red Clover is the national flower of Denmark and the state flower of Vermont.

Red clover supplements have been used for the treatment of various health conditions including menopause, osteoporosis, cough and eczema. It’s also an ingredient in herbal essiac tea.

The isoflavones and phytoestrogens from red clover have been used to treat the symptoms of menopause for many years. The high amounts of isoflavones such as genistein, which have estrogen-like properties, can reduce the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. An average of 80 mg of isoflavones per day is suggested in some studies. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid ingesting red clover.

Studies have showed that red clover can be used as a cough expectorant. This plant may promote discharge of mucus from the respiratory passages. Red clover supplementation produces gradual changes in the body, usually by improving nutrition, working as a “blood cleanser.”

Red clover is traditionally taken as a tea. Two or three teaspoons of dried flowers can be added to a cup of boiling water, and then covered for ten to fifteen minutes. Three cups can be drunk each day. It’s also available as a supplement in capsules, tablets or liquid form.

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	Planetary Formulas Red Clover Cleanser - 72 Tablets
	Nature’s Answer Red Clover Tops Organic Alcohol Free - 1 oz.
	Nature’s Way Red Clover Combo - 100 Capsules

Linden flowers have been used medicinally for many years. This tree grows in the northern temperate climates of Europe and eastern North America.

Linden (Tilia) is also known as lime blossom or lime flower. Most linden supplements are made of its flowers for the treatment of many health concerns.

Studies have showed that linden flowers may be used as a calming agent to relieve indigestion or pain in the abdomen.

In addition, the major active constituents in linden are flavanoids and glycosides, which may help to reduce anxiety. You may find linden in natural products for anxiety as well as products to promote body relaxation.

Linden is also consumed as a hot tea and may act as a diaphoretic to induce a mild fever. It promotes the immune system’s ability to fight infections as the fever usually does not go very high because the diaphoretic causes sweating, the body’s natural way of lowering its temperatures.

A tea of linden is generally prepared by adding two to three teaspoons (5-10) grams of dried or fresh flowers to a pint of boiled water. Cover the container for ten to fifteen minutes, and then sip the tea while it is still hot. A tincture of fluid extract of linden may alternatively be used, providing the same health benefits.

Linden supplements may be used for the treatment of the common cold but can also help with cough, fever, infections, inflammation and migraines.

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	Reviva Labs Facial Spray Linden - 8 oz.
	Herb Pharm Linden/Mistletoe Compound - 1 oz.
	Herbs Etc HB Pressure Tonic Linden/Hawthron Complex - 60 Softgels

Mangosteen has been given the nickname “the antioxidant powerhouse”. The juice from this exotic fruit has recently become one of the hottest supplements on the market.

The Purple Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical evergreen tree originally from the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas of Indonesia. The edible fruit is deep reddish purple when ripe, and has been described as sweet and tangy, citrusy with peach flavor and texture.

The mangosteen is very popular in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia and it’s commonly known as “the Queen of fruit” in Singapore and Malaysia. Fresh mangosteen is not available in the continental United States. However, several juices are available, providing even better health benefits than the fresh fruit.

Mangosteen juice is a great source of antioxidants called xanthones. Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals, highly reactive compounds that interfere with cell’s ability to function normally, and may lead to more than 60 different health conditions, including the aging process, cancer, and hardening of the arteries.

Some juices blend this exotic fruit with more than one fruit to provide the highest antioxidant content in one single product. Companies mix mangosteen with açaí, goji, blueberries, pomegranate and black cherry, creating a powerful antioxidant and delicious product.

How much should you drink on a daily basis? The amount recommended isn’t very high. One ounce a day can keep the free radicals away. Popular mangosteen juices contain anywhere from 1,600 to 2,500 ORAC units per ounce of juice. If you need to significantly increase your antioxidant intake, three ounces per day should help in addition to a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables.

 3 Comments, latest by Elmar Sandyck

	Buried Treasure Products Mangosteen Complete - 32 oz.
	Dynamic Health Mangosteen Gold 100% Pure Organic Juice - 32 oz.

Devil’s claw is a native plant originally from the southern Africa region.

The interesting name derives from the herb’s unusual fruits, which are covered with numerous small claw-like appendages.

The hooks cover its fruit but it is the secondary root of the plant which is used in herbal supplements.

Devil’s claw, Harpagophytum procumbens, has been used by numerous tribes for a wide variety of conditions, ranging from gastrointestinal difficulties to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, the herb has been used to reduce pain, particularly lower back pain, as Devil’s claw supplements have anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions and are preferred by herbalists because of its high concentration of beneficial components.

Arthritis is a very common problem faced by many Americans. Several supplements have been able to support this issue but some people struggle to get results from the most popular ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroiton and msm.

Devil’s claw may be the solution as studies have proved that daily supplementation may minimize pain and reduce inflammation because is contains multiple beneficial compounds including phytosterols, flavonoids and phenolic acids.

It may also be the solution for people suffering from digestive system problems. Several enzyme blends add Devil’s claw as an ingredient and the product can be taken separately as well. Supplements are available in capsules as well as liquid form.

Photo credit: wc.pima.edu

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	Nature’s Answer Devil’s Claw Root Alcohol Free - 1 oz.
	Nature’s Answer Devil’s Claw Root Alcohol Free - 1 oz.

Cinnamon trees grow in several tropical areas, including parts of India, China, Brazil and the Caribbean. Its bark is widely used as a spice, primarily in cookery as a condiment and flavoring material. Cinnamon bark is one of the few spices that can be consumed directly.

Most people know cinnamon as an ingredient in many delicious desserts such as apple pie, cinnamon buns and cereals. Cinnamon sticks are also famous and are used for hot drinks, such as apple cider, as well as shavings for decorations of cakes.

Moreover, cinnamon scented candles are one of the top sellers around the holiday season because most products produce a “cozy and warm” fragrance, promoting the “holiday” smell around the house.

However, what people may not know is that cinnamon is also a powerful ancient herbal medicine able to support various health concerns.

Studies have showed that cinnamon is a remarkable product in the treatment of type II diabetes and insulin resistance. Several natural supplements to support blood sugar balance have cinnamon as a main ingredient because the extract from its bark promotes potent antioxidant activity.

Clinical studies showed that continue supplementation of cinnamon has positive effects in the human body, promoting healthy glucose metabolism and supporting cardiovascular function.

In addition, cinnamon supplements may help treating colic, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, menorrhagia (heavy menstrual disorder) and yeast infection.

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Boswellia is a large branching tree originally from the dry areas of India. An extract can be produced form the resin of the tree trunk. This extract has many pharmacological uses particularly as an anti-inflammatory.

Boswellia has been successfully used in many modern herbal preparations. Studies have showed that this ancient Ayurvedic herb can be an essential tool to support one of the most common problems these days: osteoarthritis.

Nearly 21 million people in the United States are suffering from osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis or joint disease, which has become the leading cause of chronic disability in the country.

Osteoarthritis is a clinical syndrome in which low-grade inflammation results in pain in the joints. This is typically caused by abnormal wearing of the cartilage that covers and acts as a cushion inside joints and decrease of fluids that lubricates those joints.

As the bone surfaces become less protected by cartilage, patients increasingly experiences pain upon weight bearing, including walking and standing. Muscles may atrophy and ligaments may become more lax as a result of decreasing movement because of pain.

Boswellia can relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis acting as an anti- inflammatory in the human system. Products containing boswellia may inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators in the body and long-term use does not appear to cause any side effects.

Treatment with boswellia is safe and efficient. An average of 150mg of the product taken three times a day should be sufficient to help the majority of cases.

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