Alfalfa Leaf is also called as holy-hay, Lucerne and trefoil. Alfalfa is the oldest cultivated plant and is in use for centuries. It is also useful as human food. It has acquired the name from Arabic word al-fac-facah. This Arabic word meant father of foods. Alfalfa offers vitamins E, C and K and beta-carotene. The sprouts, seeds and the herb are used for tea and are also employed in capsules. Alfalfa seeds or leaves are used in capsules. The sprouts are used in salad bars and groceries. The alfalfa is boiled for 10 minutes in boiling water while preparing tea. Alfalfa is also the best sources of vitamin K and works in association with vitamin D. this combination helps in building good bone structure. Alfalfa is useful as homeopathic remedy as it stimulates milk production in the mothers who breastfeed. Alfalfa can also be employed with fenugreek and blessed thistle. Alfalfa seeds evidently lower the levels of cholesterol and hence are used widely.

Aloe is a plant that is used for many purposes. Its extract is often used for medicinal uses both internally and externally. Aloe is most commonly used for burns and scratches as a soothing gel that helps alleviate pain from burns as well as progress the healing process. Other skin conditions have been found to benefit from the use of aloe extract. Eczema, dry skin and minor wounds can be healed faster with the use of aloe. For internal use aloe has been found to help with heartburn in the form of a juice. It is also purported to have anti carcinogenic effects.

Apple Cider Vinegar is made out of pure apple juice through firstly an alcoholic fermentation process, then secondly through acetobacter agents, turning the alcohol into acetic acid, making it a vinegar. Traditionally, Apple Cider Vinegar has been used to treat gout, arthritis, various skin conditions, allergies, even high cholesterol. When diluted, it helps lower high fever, particularly in infants. Apple Cider Vinegar is currently very popular in the body building and weight control circles as a weight loss agent. While no scientific studies to that matter have been conducted, the overall content of Apple Cider Vinegar, rich with health promoting compounds such as vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus, but also in some high quality products pectin and malic acid, make it a valuable nutritional supplement.

Apple Pectin is a soluble fiber fuses with bile acids and promotes their removal.

Barley Rice Fiber origin is to the very ancient times and this is also one of the oldest plants in the universe. Scientists believe its origin to be in Tibet. Barley was used in bread as flour up to the 15th century. Barley is one of the major food sources in places that adapt wheat and other cereals in fewer quantities. In fact, North Africa and Middle East considers this as the major cereal grain. Barley comprises of beta-glucans that is highly beneficial for human diet. Barley is opulent with essential antioxidants and nutrients and this helps in delaying the aging effects, prevents arteriosclerosis as well as decreases the muscle soreness and inflammation. It also improves mental clarity and supports healthy skin, nails and hair. Barley is not meant only for soup as it is a wonderful ingredient as breakfast fare or side dish. The versatility of this fiber is that it is a nutritious food high in fiber content and low in fats. Barley consumed as a diet reduces the cholesterol and the risk of stroke.

Buchu Leaves , from the Buchu herb, commonly found in the South West region of Cape Colony in Africa. The buchu leaf has oil glands that are useful as an insect repellent and at times as an antiseptic. The oil, when removed from the leaf and mixed in a vinegar base, can be used to soothe bruises and sprains. Severe infections of the urinary tract, gout, digestive problems and rheumatism are among the many ailments that can be cured with the help of the buchu leaf. Buchu leaf extracts should not be taken on an empty stomach, as they may cause gastric problems due to intolerance. There is no conclusive evidence that it helps in weight loss, and should not be taken at any time during pregnancy.

Burdock Root is found in Asia and Europe. Burdock root has medicinal qualities and is in use for herbal remedies. This root is tasty as it is sweet and has gummy consistency. Budrock is used as remedy for arthritis, measles, throat pain, colds and diuretic. Budrock root is employed in oncology and is useful in treating various health problems. Budrock root is used for purifying blood and is useful in removing toxins. It is used orally and also topically for skin disorders. Budrock root soothes aching joints as well. Chinese healers combine with other plants to cure cold, measles, tonsillitis and throat pain. Burdock root is well-known in Japan and is a good source of nutrients and vitamins. Budrock root is supposed to be tested systematically. Budrock root is effective in bloodstream cleansing, treating gout, relieving pain from arthritis, ulcers, eczema, rheumatism and psoriasis. It has properties in curing cancer and is found effective in treating impotence and barrenness.

Caffeine- The bitter, white crystalline xanthine alkaloid caffeine is found in tea, coffee, soft drinks, chocolates, pain relievers, and a variety of over the counter medications. It is a psychoactive stimulant drug that causes increased alertness by stimulating the central nervous system. For the same reason, many people feel more energetic after consuming it. It even elevates the mood but these effects do not last for long. The effects of caffeine usually last for about five to six hours, though caffeine sensitivity varies from person to person. It has been found that people who consume lot of caffeine on a daily basis soon develop less sensitivity and may need to increase their intake to enjoy the same effect. Being a diuretic, a person consuming caffeine may have to urinate more often.

Cayenne, which contains Capsaicin, a thermogenic substance. A thermogenic raises your core temperature, which allows you to burn more calories from food, particularly when eating a high fat meal.

Chromium Polynicotinate, which is a form of chromium, an essential trace mineral that is needed for the body's production of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that stabilizes the body's blood sugar level.

Cranberry Extract is of assistance in problems with Urinary Tract. The cranberry extract is effective in avoiding infections of the urinary tract and also in preventing bacteria from settling on the healthy cells. Cranberry extract has identical benefits and is a diuretic to promote overall and urinary health. Women suffering with bladder infections are advised to drink cranberry juice and it is turning to be useful to fight the infections of urinary tract. Cranberry extract refers to small red fruits as well as shrubs. Studies show that the potential benefits of cranberry extract are found to be effective on women. Women taking cranberry extract showed reduction in the urinary tract problems frequency as it prevents the bacteria from getting attached to the healthy cells. The cranberry juice is recommended since decades and generations and now the pills and sauce as well provide similar protection. Cranberry extract contain sugar in high levels and hence can disrupt the numbers for blood sugar patients.

Dandelion Root is traditionally used for treating breast problems, aching joints, fever, skin disorders, swelling, and appendicitis. It is rich in vitamins such as A, C, D, and B-complex. It also contains various minerals such as magnesium, zinc potassium, manganese, boron, iron, and calcium. Its active ingredients are eudesmanolide and germacranolide. It also has tannin, carotene, inulin, and lactupicrine. Dandelion Root can be used as an appetite stimulant. It also has cleansing and detoxifying properties, acting as a diuretic that aids liver and gallbladder functions. It helps maintain gastrointestinal health and aids in digestion. It also improves the immune system and has antiviral properties.

Fennel Seed is oval in shape and belongs to the parsley family. This is yellowish brown or green in color and is a dried fruit. This seed has its origin in Egypt and India. Fennel seed goes well with Italian sausages and curry powder mixes. Fennel has the flavor of anise, but is sweeter, aromatic and less pungent. The name is acquired from ‘marathon’, the Greek word in reference to the famous battle that was fought against the Persians in the Fennel field. Fennel seeds are added to meat loaf and meatballs as it gives authentic flavor. This Italian flavor is highly preferred. The fennel seeds are saute with onion, sausage and sliced peppers to make pasta sauce. Fennel seeds are obtained from an aromatic medicinal plant. However, this seed emits pleasant flavor and is highly aromatic. The pungent flavor has made it a prominent ingredient as a spice to enhance the flavor of foods. This seed has essential oils and make strong seasoning.

Flax seed is rich in alpha linolenic acids that offer numerous health benefits to mankind. In fact, flax seed has actually become our modern miracle food considering the fact that it helps in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the body and also helps us reduce blood triglyceride and blood pressure. Given the amount of stress associated with urban living, people have become susceptible to a wide range of health problems that include diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, flax seed plays a major role in minimizing the risk of heart attack, since it keeps the platelets from becoming sticky. Flax seeds also have a high content of lignan, a type of phytoestrogen (antioxidant) that helps in cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer.

Garlic- In modern times, people are sticking to the adage - a clove of garlic a day keeps cancer away!! Due to its therapeutic properties, garlic has garnered the reputation of being a 'wonder' drug that fights virtually all possible illness ranging from common cold and flue to cancer and plague. Garlic not just keeps cancer at bay but also helps you manage high cholesterol levels. While most people prefer to use organically grown garlic for its high sulphur content, many choose to take garlic supplements in the form of pills and capsules. It is believed that raw garlic is quite effective for treating acne symptoms as well. Moderation is the key here, as consuming garlic in large quantities can cause irritation of the digestive tract and may even damage it.

Ginger Root- Ginger is a very popular spice and has been used for culinary purposes for ages. Besides the widespread use in the cuisine of many nations, several traditional medicines, including the Indian and Chinese medicinal practices, have used this Zingiber officinale, as the Latin name goes, for its pain relieving, anti allergenic and anti inflammatory activities. Further uses have been noted for treatment of various ailments of the digestive tract, such as diarrhea and nausea, but also as general stomach settlers. While the use of the ginger root extract has been used in ginger beer and ginger ale beverages, the use as dietary supplement or component in nutritional supplement concoctions is relatively recent. The volatile oils of the ginger root extract have been noted for the antibacterial, analgesic, sedative and antipyretic properties.

Glucomannan, also called propolene, not to be confused with propylene, is a polysaccharide and mainly a straight chain polymer. It is widely used as a food additive, E number E425, with thickening and emulsifying characteristics. Glucomannan comprises almost half of the corm of the amorphophallus konjac plant, the so called “devil’s tongue” plant, native to warmer subtropical to tropical eastern Asia. Some studies have shown that this dietary fiber may hold multiple health benefits. It has been and currently is in clinical trials for treatment of constipation, obesity, cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. For weight control purposes, it has been observed that glucomannan promotes satiety when ingested, significantly reducing food cravings. It was also observed that when used with chitosan, glucomannan seemed to decrease serum cholesterol.

Goldenseal Herb is also known as Hydrastis Canadensis. The herb is becoming popular for its numerous health benefits. It was traditionally used by Native Americans as a cure of digestive problems, skin disorders, liver conditions, and diarrhea and eye irritations. Goldenseal herbal tincture is used for mouth sores and sore throats. It is also available in nutritional supplements because research shows that it has strong activity against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. It also believed to mask positive drug screen by some athletes but research reject these claims. It is also useful in treatment of bladder infections and fungal infections of the skin.

Grapefruit Extract, also known as citrus seed extract is a liquid that is derived from the seeds, pulp as well as the white membranes of grapefruit. Some scientists claim that grapefruit extract possesses antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties while others recommend it for the treatment of earache, throat infections etc. There are two ways in which grapefruit extract is prepared. One is the natural, self-made grapefruit extract which is made by grinding the seed and pulp and then mixing them with glycerine. The second method is the commercial way in which the seed, pulp, glycerine and synthetic preservatives are all blended together. Grapefruit extract is believed to have a lot of scope in the health food industry. However one has to be careful as grapefruit can have several interactions with certain drugs like warfarin.

Hawthorne Berry, also called White Thorn, Haw, May Blossom, Hay Berry and May Day Flower. Hawthorne Berry is red in color and comes from a spiny tree called the hawthorne shrub. Hawthorne Berry is believed to be good for the heart and is commonly used to expell excess salt from the body to reduce water retention. Hawthorn Berries contain vitamins C and B complex, crataegin, carotene, flavonoids and sugars.

Irish Moss aides in many respiratory conditions.

Juniper Berry is utilized to help treat bladder infections.

Lemon Peel cures upset stomach and colic. Lemon Peel is also one of the best sources of potassium, calcium and vitamin A. Lemon peel also reduces few skin melanoma types. Lemon Peel is acquired from the common lemon fruit. Lemon is more than two thousand years old and is the popular citrus fruit in the universe. It is grown in warm climates and it is observed that people normally eat the lemon fruit only, the lemon peel is used medicinally. The lemon peel also has ascorbic acid, phosphorous and volatile oil. Lemon Peel in Africa is used for curing colic and Indians used it to cure stomach upset. Lemon Peel is also used for its aromatic fragrance and as a flavor enhancer. The constituents of lemon peel decrease the blood vessels permeability and are also a remedy for phlebitis. Lemon Peel is also effective in preventing from abnormal skin growth. It also helps in acne drying up and the blemishes also vanish as this natural fruit contains acids that kill the bacteria and eventually eliminate the dead skin.

Mangosteen is a fruit that is found in the tropical countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Initially, the fruit was used to treat gonorrhea, bladder infections and diarrhea. An ointment made from the rind was used to cure skin rashes. Today, however, study suggests that the pericarp or the outer rind is rich in xanthones, which are useful in fighting cancer cells. The mangosteen fruit contatins certain properties that boost up the lymphatic system, causing an overall improvement of health. Its high content of vitamin C and vitamin E will allow the body to function normally because of their assistance in boosting the immune system. A detailed research is being carried out into the various beliefs that mangosteen fruit may be able to cure cancer.

Mint Leaf is commonly used as a stomachic and also helps support digestion.

Noni Fruit is a natural fruit of Hawaii that has been noted as possibility being able to treat cancer within individuals.

Oat Bran refers to the external oat grain husk. This is usually discarded in the milling process. This is regrettable as it contains the best of the dietary fiber and also has good amounts of minerals. The grains are normally marketed as whole grain, but oat bran is sold separately. Nowadays, oat bran is available in the markets easily. The cereal grains have three parts namely, the bran, endosperm and the germ. The endosperm is used in making white flour. The germ is nutrient rich and is usually extracted in association with the bran. The bran is highly rich in fiber and also protects the grain thereby offering nutrition and fiber to the plant. Oat bran is used as additive in baked goods such as muffins as it has a rich and distinctive texture with a nutty flavor. Oat bran is added to breads owing to its fiber content. It also is supplemented to breakfast cereals. Cooks also supplement oat bran to scones, cookies and pancakes. The fiber content is truly very beneficial in decreasing the levels of cholesterol and is a preventative for various cancer forms. It is integrated to make a healthy diet.

Pomegranate is one of the most popular health foods in today’s world, because of its many health benefits. Drinking pomegranate juice daily reduces the level of cholesterol and avoids cardiac complications. Blood pressure is also regulated through pomegranate. Other health benefits are inclusive of its ability to curb the spread of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Besides this, pomegranate juice is a natural way to keep your teeth free from dental plaque. Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants that clear the body of free radicals and help to avoid many serious complications. The slowing down of the aging process is another benefit of the pomegranate fruit. The common cold is fought off by the pomegranate’s high content of vitamins A,C and E which boost the immune system.

Potassium Gluconate is a dietary supplement available over the counter and also is a prescribed medication. Potassium gluconate replenished the body owing to the supply of potassium that gets depleted due to certain medications or illness. Potassium gluconate is available in tablet and liquid forms. It is the medicine that is frequently prescribed in the United States. Potassium is the main electrolyte of the human body that carries positive electrical charges through cells and blood. It has a vital role in balancing water content, maintaining blood pressure, regulating heart beat and also in aiding the impulses of nerve cells. Potassium gluconate gets depleted due to poor diet, excessive sweating, chronic illness and diarrhea. The decrease in potassium is indicated by symptoms such as fatigue, depression, muscle weakness, high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat. This can as well result in issues with central nervous system and death. Potassium gluconate can exhibit serious side effects such as throat or chest pain, stomach pain and may demand medical attention. Hence, consulting the physician before taking is suggested.

Psyllium Husk thrives in the Middle East. Psyllium husk refers to the covering of seeds and this is recognized as one of the best ways of acquiring high dietary fiber count. Certainly, Oat bran is also an excellent fiber source. Subsequently, Psyllium husk offers heavy dose of dietary fiber and is the main ingredient for dietary fiber powders and supplements such as Metamucil. Psyllium husk passes through the digestive tract by absorbing water and hence is of immense use to people suffering from diarrhea or constipation. The intake of dietary fiber assists in improving the condition such that it results in making the stool bulkier and softer. Taking Psyllium Husk with plenty of water is very important. Drinking even six to seven glasses of water is recommended. Similarly, taking high fiber cereals such as Heartwise and Bran Buds also should be taken with lots of water. Psyllium Husk is also useful in reducing blood cholesterol. However, care should be taken while taking Psyllium Husk as some people may be allergic to this fiber.

Red Clover Leaf is native to Asia and the eastern Mediterranean regions. It is found on roadsides and also in lawns. Red clover leaf grows to a height of 16 inches. The leaves are oval in shape with a V mark known as chevron in the center. The red clover flowers are purple in color and are in egg shape. They come as three part leaves. Trifolium is the genus name indicating three leaves. Red clover leaf belongs to the leguminosae family or the pea family. The other members as well include peanuts and beans besides peas. These plants take nitrogen from the environment ad biologically help other plants in growth and fixation. Red clover leaf is used as a mild sedative, expectorant and blood purifier. The tea prepared with this leaf is useful for bronchitis, asthma and respiratory spasms. Red clover leaf is useful for sores, skin ulcers, burns and athlete’s foot. Red clover flowers are useful in wine and in treating menstrual problems.

Red Raspberry Leaf is the best pal of gardeners. This is because though it has small prickles, it gives luscious berries in abundance. This plant is now found in gardens in the North America temperate regions. This plant is indigenous to Asia and Europe as well. They are common fruits used in fruit salads, fruit juices, preserves, jams, breakfast bars, fruit syrups, tarts and many other foods. Ted raspberry leaves have health promoting characteristics. They are filled with vitamin C and phenolic antioxidants namely tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanin pigments. The red raspberry leaf has bitter and harsh flavor, but is excellent with medicinal power. Tea prepared from red raspberry leaf is useful to cure wounds, upper respiratory disorders, colic pain and childbirth difficulties. The leaf tea is good for diarrhea treatment. The tea prepared using red raspberry leaf can be taken five to six times in a day. it has the ability to cure diarrhea as it is rich with tannins and they reduce intestinal inflammation. The raspberry leaf is also an effective mouthwash.

Sage Leaf Extract.

Uva Ursi is a woody shrub of evergreen leaves featuring a red berry fruit. This and some related species are being referred to as bearberries. At home on the Northern Hemisphere, it has been used for medicinal purposes for a long time. The active ingredient is arbutin, a glycoside with antimicrobial and mild diuretic properties. The leaves were often used for medicinal tea, where, besides arbutin, other active ingredients exist, like tannic acid, gallic acid, ursolic acid, resin, hydroquinones, tannins, flavonoids and phenolic glycosides. The uva ursi extract is said to help, among other uses, as a mild stimulant, sedative, disinfectant, tonic and urinary antiseptic. Its use included fighting kidney stones and infections, nephritis, pancreatitis, vaginal diseases, diabetes, where it removes excess sugar from blood, and obesity.