Part 2: Discover Herbal Formulas

Deb Mastrianna

Herbal Formulas are a great way to unleash the synergy by combining herbs that work together to maximize positive results. This week we will introduce three more herbal formulas that address specific health concerns.

Nursing Increase Formula

Spleen Support Formula

Superpower Pollen Formula

1. NURSING INCREASE

Herbs: Blessed Thistle, Marshmallow, Fennel

BLESSED THISTLE LEAF ( Carbenia benedicta, Cnicus benedicta) is believed to help the purification and circulation of blood, so much so that using Blessed Thistle Leaf twice a day will relieve chronic headaches. It has also been used for stomach and digestive problems, gas in the intestines, constipation, gallbladder, and liver troubles.  It has been used specifically for women, because of its ability to balance female hormones.  Blessed Thistle is a good tonic for girls that are premenstrual. It has been used by nursing mothers to produce a good supply of milk.

FENNEL SEED (Foeniculum vulgare) promotes the functioning of the liver, kidneys, spleen and clears the lungs. It is mainly used for digestive disorders but also has an abundance of flavonoids which exert mild estrogenic effects.  This makes it useful for colic, cramps, gas, excessive mucus, indigestion and abdominal distension. Fennel, when combined with Uva Ursi, makes an effective treatment for cystitis. Other uses include suppresses appetite, intestinal problems, increases milk, morning sickness and increases urination.

 MARSHMALLOW ROOT(Althaea officinalis) is very soothing and healing to the inflamed respiratory, alimentary, intestinal and genito-urinary areas. It has been beneficial for the stomach, the small intestine, urinary and respiratory tracts, kidney and bladder problems. Marshmallow root increases and enriches breast milk. It has also been used inflammation and vaginal irritation.

2. SPLEEN SUPPORT FORMULA

Herbs: Burdock root, Licorice root, Astragalus root, Dandelion leaf, Wild Yam root, Yellow Dock root, Goldenseal, Cayenne.

BURDOCK ROOT (Arctium lappa) is one of the most effective herbs for cleansing the blood without the side effect of nausea. Because it is a powerful antioxidant, it has been used to treat conditions caused by an overload of toxins, such as infections, boils, rashes and other skin problems. The root is thought to be particularly good at helping to eliminate heavy metals from our bodies. As a blood purifier, it has been used for arthritis, rheumatism, sciatica, and lumbago, rosacea, menopause and psoriasis.

LICORICE ROOT (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a favorite in Chinese herbal medicine. Its stimulating action helps to counteract stress, supplies energy to our bodies, making it especially useful for those recovering from illness. Licorice works with our lungs, stomach, intestines, spleen, liver and adrenals and contains substances similar to our adrenal cortical hormones. This provides an estrogenic effect; therefore, it is an important herb for treating adrenal insufficiency, other glandular problems and female disorders.

ASTRAGALUS ROOT (Astragalus membranaceus) is a popular herb used for debilitating conditions, hypoglycemia and to improve digestion. It is helpful for young adults for energy production and for respiratory endurance. American Cancer Society publication reports that it restored immune functions in 90% of the cancer patients studied. and is presently being studied as a possible treatment for people living with AIDS and for its potential to prolong life. It has been beneficial in treating colds, liver conditions, nephritis, prolapsed organs, cancer and heart disease and can strengthen digestion systems. 

DANDELION LEAF (Taraxacum officinale) has been used in the treatment of gall bladder and urinary disorders. A valuable blood purifier used for liver, spleen and kidney disorders, Dandelion Leaf contains nutritive salts to build up our blood. It increases bile production and stimulates its flow to the gallbladder. It is here that the herb causes contractions and the release of bile, with a mild laxative effect. The plant has an anti-bacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Pneumococcal, Meningococcal, Bacillus dysenteries, B. typhi, C. diphtheriae, Proteus etc.

WILD YAM ROOT ( Dioscorea villosa) has been used to relax muscles, soothe nerves, and relieve pain and has been beneficial for colic, flatulence, colds, poor circulation, neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), jaundice, gastritis, gall bladder complaints, high cholesterol, painful menstruation abdominal and intestinal cramping. It has also been used for nervousness, restlessness and other nervous conditions. And as a stimulant for increased bile flow, it has helped to relieve hepatic congestion and bilious colic and gallstones.

YELLOW DOCK ROOT (Rumex crispus) is an excellent blood-builder because its iron content is easily digestible and because it contains up to 40% of the recommended level of iron.  It has been useful for anemia and iron-deficiency symptoms. As a blood cleanser, it has often been used for the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, herpes, eruptions, eczema and acne. Yellow Dock has a stimulating effect on the liver and has been used for liver/gallbladder diseases

GOLDENSEAL ROOT (Hydrastis canadensis) has antibiotic properties stronger than many prescription medicines and can target bacteria, as well as protozoa and yeasts. Golden Seal is unique in that it does not harm the bacteria that are necessary in the digestive tract. By many herbalists it is considered one of the most powerful herbs. This herb has been substituted for quinine.

CAYENNE ROOT (Capsicum minimum) is considered by many to be the strongest stimulant known. It has been used as a relaxant to the stomach and colon and as a healer for ulcers. Cayenne Root can also stimulate the stomach, without irritation when small doses are used. Cayenne stimulates our blood and heart, increasing and strengthening the pulse. And does well in dilating blood vessels, thus relieving chronic congestion common in alcoholics. It has been used as a tonic and is said to be unequalled in warding off disease because of the high vitamin C content.

3. SUPERPOWER POLLEN Formula

Herbs: Bee Pollen, Eleuthero Root

BEE POLLEN actually contains all of the nutrients we need to live. It improves your metabolism, dissolves then flushes fat cells from our bodies, due to the high percentage of lecithin, lowers cholesterol levels and reduces food cravings. Athletes often use bee pollen for endurance, strength, stamina and mental clarity.  Bee Pollen has been able to strengthen and stabilize capillaries and reduce inflammation. It is a bactericide and may increase our resistance to infection.  It has also been beneficial for atherosclerosis, hemorrhoids, hypertension, PMS, hay fever, diarrhea, nosebleed, cerebral hemorrhage, mouth sores, varicose veins, rheumatism, painful urination, prostate conditions, constipation, diarrhea, enteritis, colitis, anemia, mental illness and obesity, radiation sickness, premature aging and various circulatory problems.

CAUTION:  Do not use if you are allergic to bees. 

ELEUTHERO ROOT (Eleutherococcus senticosus) increases longevity, stamina and boosts immune system. It has also improved memory and concentration. Also known as Siberian Ginseng, this herb can be used by male and female for long periods of time. It has been used for mental and/or physical fatigue, it can curb our irritability, improve our appetite, sleep and reflexes. Eleuthero protects against the dangers of radiation (atomic fallout, microwaves and x-rays). It detoxifies the blood. It has also been used for adrenals, blood pressure, hemorrhaging, hyperglycemia, impotence, memory and viruses. When 500 mg of Eleuthero is taken every day without cessation, it has been shown to provide protection from every viral infection known to man. Other indications include age spots, blood pressure, depression, increases endurance, hemorrhage, longevity, mental and physical vigor. It is also a sexual stimulant.

Formulas can simplify your herbal protocol when the individual ingredients combine to maximize the necessary synergy that will address your specific health concerns. But always consult with your primary caregiver to make sure there are no contraindications with pharmaceuticals you are taking or conditions you may have.