Chasteberry Extract for Fibroids

Chasteberry Extract for Fibroids

Chasteberry is an herb that is also known as Vitex agnus-castus. The plant is a deciduous shrub that is native to Mediterranean, European and Central Asian countries. Vitex has slender leaves and dark purple berries that have a long historical and medicinal use in ancient Greek and Roman times. Monks commonly ingested this herb during the Middle Ages to help suppress sexual desire, which led to the inception of its more common name–chasteberry or chaste tree. Consult with your health care provider prior to using chasteberry for fibroids.

th

Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign–non-cancerous–tumors that are made up of muscle cells and tissue that coagulate and grow in and around your uterine walls. Although the cause of fibroid growth is not known, it may be hormonally linked, especially in cases of excess estrogen. Common symptoms may include heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, a sensation of abdominal fullness, frequent urination, painful intercourse, low back pain, and reproductive problems such as infertility or multiple miscarriages. Medical treatment for fibroids involves prescription medications or surgery. However, some herbs like chasteberry may help to inhibit fibroid growth, although there is not enough evidence to support these claims, says Medline Plus.

Chasteberry Properties

According to herbalist Jessica Godino, chasteberry can help to regulate female hormones and stimulate your pituitary gland. This herb specifically helps to increase progesterone and decrease estrogen, which makes it an effective remedy in cases of excess estrogen. Vitex does not contain specific hormonal building blocks. Instead, it contains constituents that help to nourish your endocrine system and enhance your body’s ability to obtain hormonal balance naturally.http://www.ebiochem.com/product/chasteberry-extract-10-1-65521

What Is Goldenseal Root Extract Used For?

Goldenseal is an herb indigenous to North America. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, goldenseal plants are endangered in the wild, but are grown commercially in farms. The extracts of the roots are used for a variety of health conditions, but insufficient evidence about goldenseal prevents it from being a widely used herb in the medical community.

External Uses

Americans Indians used goldenseal root for external ulcers, gonorrhea and skin conditions, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Since then, goldenseal root extract has been used as an alternative form of treatment for such external diseases. The center explains that other external uses include canker sores, eye infections and wound treatment.

11216

Internal Uses

Goldenseal root is an alternative form of respiratory infection treatment. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the herb is also used to treat colds. Natural practitioners use goldenseal root extract for a variety of other internal diseases. The American Cancer Society states that such uses include urinary tract infection, tuberculosis, menstrual pains, colitis and ringing in the ears.

Chicory Root Extract & Flatulence

11215If you are experiencing flatulence, taking chicory root extract may help reduce your digestive discomfort. Chicory root is a traditional herbal remedy for digestive problems taken to promote nutrient absorption, reduce bloating and balance gut bacteria. Chicory root extract can be purchased in health food stores or made at home using dried or roasted chicory root to make a herbal tea similar in flavor to coffee. Chicory is not intended to replace medical care, so check with a registered medical herbalist and doctor before purchasing chicory products.

History

Chicory, also known as Cichorium intybus, is related to other medicinal pants commonly in use, such as dandelion and tansy. According to an article published in “Rural Living” in 2011, chicory has been used and cultivated by humans for thousands of years since ancient Egypt. The common name for chicory comes from its old Egyptian name, cichorium. Chicory is used in traditional western herbal medicine as a digestive stimulant, liver tonic and internal cleanser. Chicory root is also popular as a coffee substitute and is added to some beers as a flavoring. Farmers use the leaves of chicory as feed, with its high content of tannins making it useful in inhibiting parasites in farm animals.

Pharmacology

Chicory root contains dietary fibers called fructans and inulin, which have a beneficial effect on cultures of symbiotic bacteria that live in the small and large intestines of humans. Symbiotic, or “friendly,” bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria ensure healthy digestion, inhibit pathogens like candida and support immune function. In a study published in “The Journal of Nutrition” in 1998, researchers from the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium tested fructans and inulin from chicory root in bacterial cultures. Chicory root had a significant effect on bifidobacteria, providing food for the bacteria and enabling cultures to grow faster. Researchers concluded that chicory root and its fructans and inulin are probiotic and will benefit the growth of bifidobacteria in the human gut.

http://www.ebiochem.com/product/chicory-root-extract-powder-5-1-13914

Benefits of Fenugreek Extract

Fenugreek, also referred to as Greek hay and fenigreek, is an annual herb that derives from the Ukraine, India, China and the Mediterranean region. The ripe, dry seeds found in fenugreek possess protein, vitamins, niacin, potassium and disogenin. Fenugreek also contains alkaloids, lysine, L-tryptophan and steroidal saponins. Fenugreek is an over-the-counter supplement available in capsule, tincture and powder form. Multiple studies have indicated there are many health and cosmetic benefits to consuming fenugreek extract.

11214

Treating Diabetes

Fenugreek may be an efficient method to treat both type one and two diabetes. Nutritional Supplement Educational Centre notes a study conducted in India that discovered taking an ounce of fenugreek daily can diminish blood glucose levels. Prior to consuming the herb to treat diabetes, consult with a doctor or physician to ensure it is safe for you to take.

Digestive Aid

Fenugreek is respected for its digestive aid benefits. Fenugreek seeds possess a significant amount of mucilage, which is a substance akin to an adhesive. Mucilage battles gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of your stomach and intestines. The website Vita Wise suggests using this powerful herb to combat indigestion, dyspepsia, stomach ulcers, diarrhea and gastrointestinal spasms. You should ideally sprinkle one tablespoon of fenugreek onto your food or ingest a tablespoon of the herb with water or juice prior to eating.

Weight Loss

Fenugreek is plentiful in soluble fiber. Soluble fiber is acclaimed for promoting weight loss because it causes your digestive tract to enlarge. An expanded digestive tract can make you feel full and successfully control your appetite.

http://www.ebiochem.com/product/fenugreek-extract-4-1-65599

What are the Benefits of Neem Extract?

The neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which grows in India and surrounding areas, has been called “Arishtha” Sanskrit for “reliever of sickness.” Virtually every part of the tree is beneficial for healing and has been used medicinally for over 2000 years. In 1992, the U.S. National Academy of Sciences published a book entitled, “Neem – a tree for solving global problems.” The extract has been used to treat a wide variety of illnesses.

Anti-inflammatory

Nimbidim, a major constituent of neem extract, has been shown to reduce inflammation in rats. A study at the Department of Pharmacology at Rajshahi Medical College in Bangladesh, researchers found that neem extract has a significant impact on inflammation, but less than popular steroid, dexamethasone.

Antiarthritic

Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, nimbidim has been shown to reverse signs of arthritis in rats. Research published in the 2004 issue of Phytotherapy Research found that nimbidim can help treat diseases due to inflammation.

Hypoglycemic

Studies with diabetic rats have shown neem extract to be effective in decreasing blood sugar levels and preventing glucose-induced high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia. A significant decrease in blood sugar was noted when fasting rabbits were given neem extract.

11213

Antigastric Ulcer

Due to the presence of a glycoside, neem extract shows the ability to inhibit the formation of ulcers in the stomach and intestines of rats.

Spermicidal

In vitro studies show neem extract’s spermicidal ability against monkey and human sperm. Oral administration of neem extract shows antifertility properties and further studies are needed to determine its ability to prevent conception.

Antifungal & Insecticide

Neem extract have been proven to be effective at killing a number of human fungi. In addition to its effectiveness against Candida, Microsporum, Trichosporium and other fungi, author James Walter, in his book, Biopesticides: Use and Delivery, states that neem oil “affects over 300 species of insects, including such important pests as armyworms, leafminers, aphids, whiteflies, psyllids, and numerous other insect pests” making neem oil a useful pesticide with a low impact on the environment and beneficial insects.

Antibacterial

In test tube studies, neem extract has shown to be effective against M. tuberculosis and other Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. A vaginal contraceptive has shown effectiveness against a number of bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Diuretic

One of neem extract’s main constituents, sodium nimbidinate, has been shown to have diuretic effects in patients with congestive heart failure.

Antimalarial

Neem extract’s usefulness against malaria is legendary. Various forms of the plant have been used to treat malaria for centuries. Recent studies have shown neem extract’s effectiveness against the malarial parasite P. falciparum.

Cancer

Studies have found neem extract to have an antitumor polysaccharide that inhibits the growth of some tumors. While comprehensive clinical trials on humans are lacking, some human studies have shown neem extract’s ability to interfere with the cell cycles of both leukemia and melanoma.

Read more:http://www.ebiochem.com/product/neem-azadirachta-indica-extract-powder-13929

The Benefits of Red Panax Ginseng Extract

Korean, or red panax ginseng, is nearly identical botanically to American white ginseng or panax quinquefolius. Chemical differences give these two similar plants different medicinal properties. Herbal tonics either brewed from the roots or produced as alcohol tinctures offer simple ways to enjoy the benefits of red panax ginseng. Strong scientific evidence supports the use of red panax ginseng extract for certain conditions, according to MedlinePlus. Traditional medicine prescribes the plant for many other conditions, as well. Always talk to a doctor before taking red panax ginseng for any condition.

Heart Tonic

Red panax ginseng’s antioxidant properties benefit patients with heart disorders by decreasing the oxidation of LDL chloresterol. This type of ginseng exhibits a similar protective effect on brain tissue. According to MedlinePlus, studies did not show that ginseng prevents these problems.

Psychological Improvements

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, ginseng’s positive effects on mental function could include better cognition and memory, improved speed of recall, and improved accuracy during tasks requiring mental attention. Some participants in studies showed improved reaction times and better abstract thinking.

11212

Athletic Enhancement

Athletes commonly use red panax ginseng to enhance physical strength and endurance. Scientific studies show no direct correlation of ginseng consumption to increased athletic ability, but other factors may contribute. Ginseng’s stimulant quality enhances the effect of caffeine. Other positive effects of regular ginseng consumption could benefit athletic performance indirectly.

Erectile Dysfunction

Chinese herbal medicines frequently include red panax ginseng in treatments for sexual disorders such as erectile dysfunction. Some scientific studies uphold these traditional treatments, showing positive effects on erections, desire and overall sexual satisfaction. In a study using laboratory animals at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in 2002, researchers noted improvements in libido and performance. Chinese medicine considers red panax ginseng to be more yang, or male, in effect than American white ginseng–a yin tonic.

Immune System Enhancement

Red panax ginseng’s tonic effects include the strengthening of the immune system, according to MedlinePlus. Studies showed that in patients suffering from chronic bronchitis, antibiotics were more effective when patients also took ginseng. Ginseng also enhanced the effect of flu vaccines.

Cancer Chemotherapy

Some studies show that panax ginseng use lowers the risk of cancer in patients over 40 years old. During chemotherapy, cancer patients receiving ginseng injections rather than oral doses saw improvements in body weight and in quality of life.

READ MORE:http://www.ebiochem.com/product/panax-ginseng-extract-powder-total-ginsenosides-30-hplc-5125

Benefits of Rose Hips Liquid Extract

Rose hips are the fruits produced by nearly 3,000 species of ornamentals that comprise the Rosaceae family, including the common rose. Traditionally, rose hips are valued for their scent and flavor, which is somewhat similar in taste to cranberries. Rose hip liquid extract is made by slow-simmering the hips in water to yield a concentrate. Since rose hips are exceptionally nutritious, there may be several benefits of adding rose hips liquid extract to foods and beverages.

Nutritional Content

According to the Drugs.com online database, rose hips contain high levels of vitamin C. However, some rose hip preparations, including liquid extracts, may vary considerably in their vitamin C content depending on how they are processed. Other nutrients found in rose hips include vitamins D, E and K, as well as several B vitamins. Additional compounds include tannins, malic acid, citric acid, carotenoids, polyphenols, pectin and vanillin, the same agent found in vanilla and coffee beans.
1121
 

Adaptogen Effects

According to Mary Bove, author of “An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children and Infants,” rose hips contain compounds that provide adaptogenic benefits, meaning they help to enhance adrenal and glandular function during times when the body is undergoing physical or emotional stress.

Cardiovascular Benefits

According to Winston Craig, Ph.D., rose hips also contain high levels of anthocyanins, catechins, plant sterols and other phytochemicals that have been shown to help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Specifically, this effect appears to be due to these agents decreasing levels of C-reactive protein, a protein manufactured in the liver in response to systemic inflammation. High levels of this protein indicate a higher risk for heart disease.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Dr. Craig also says that rose hip preparations contain antioxidants and may benefit patients suffering from inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While Craig cites experimentation by Danish scientists with a powder made from rose hip seed, there is evidence that the extract also demonstrates these effects. For instance, in a paper published in Inflammopharmacology, researchers at Kolding Hospital in Denmark reported that rose hip extract produced anti-inflammatory effects by reducing chemotaxis of peripheral blood neutrophils and monocytes in cultured cells.

Anti-Cancer Benefits

According to Japanese researchers, quercetin isolated from rose hip extract appears to alter the synthesis of melanin pigment in melanocyte cells by inhibiting the activity and expression of tyrosinase proteins in mouse melanoma cells. The results of this study, which were published in the September 2009 edition of Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry, are significant because melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm that the results of this study can be extrapolated to human melanoma cells.
http://www.ebiochem.com/product/rose-hip-p-e-10-1-6970

Cinnamon Extract for Weight Loss

Cinnamon extract may be a useful tool if you are trying to lose weight—especially if you are obese, have metabolic syndrome or suffer from diabetes or prediabetes. However, you need to check with a doctor before adding cinnamon extract to your regimen because it can have side effects such as acting as a blood thinner. As of 2010, research on the spice’s weight-loss effectiveness was still ongoing.

Significance

Supplementing with cinnamon extract can result in increased lean muscle mass and slight body fat decreases, says a study published in the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.” The study looked at the impact that cinnamon extract had on 22 people who had metabolic syndrome. If you have metabolic syndrome, you have a waist circumference that is too big, high triglyceride levels, elevated fasting blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. Some 26 percent of adults in America, or more than 50 million people, have this condition, which triples risk for cardiovascular disease and is associated with five times the risk for type 2 diabetes.

 

2

Effects

Using cinnamon can lower a meal’s glycemic effect, says Lucy Beale and Joan Clark, authors of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Glycemic Index Weight Loss.” That means the foods you consume will boost your blood sugar more slowly. When your blood-sugar levels are elevated, your body releases more insulin, which transports the sugar in your blood, or glucose, to tissue cells so it can be used for energy. It also transports any extra glucose into fat storage. When a spike in blood-sugar causes a spike in insulin this translates to more fat being stored.

Benefits

Cinnamon extract supplements cause significant decreases in fasting blood glucose, the study says, which suggests it may reduce risk factors that are associated with diabetes. Diabetes is often linked to obesity-induced insulin resistance. When you end up with more fat cells and fewer muscle cells, your levels of glucose and insulin stay elevated. Elevated levels of visceral fat, meaning belly fat, are linked to extra fat storage in your liver, which may in turn raise your blood sugar levels. If your waist is larger than your hips, chances are you are on the path to insulin resistance, notes Janet Sanders, author of “The Diabetes Coach Approach Workbook.” In fact, the more overweight you are, the worse your insulin resistance becomes.

Function

A substance called flavon-3-ol is thought to be responsible for cinnamon extract’s stabilizing effect of insulin on your blood sugar. Flavon-3-ol, an antioxidant, may decrease insulin resistance in a couple of ways, notes Nicholas Perricone in his book, “The Nicholas Perricone Weight-Loss Diet.” The antioxidant activates enzymes that stimulate your insulin receptors, which is important because when you are insulin resistant, your cells lose the ability to sense the presence of insulin. It also enhances insulin-signaling pathways within your muscle tissue. Cinnamon’s active components are found in the water-soluble portion of the spice rather than the fat-soluble cinnamon oil, Perricone notes.

Considerations

More study on cinnamon’s potential as a weight loss aid is needed, as not all studies point to a benefit. For example, some studies find cinnamon extract has no effect on insulin resistance. The best dosage of cinnamon extract also needs to be identified, Perricone says. For example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture findings point to lower doses of cinnamon proving more consistently effective for blood sugar control.

What Are the Benefits of Ashwagandha Extract?

Ashwagandha extract is a natural supplement derived from the root of the Ayurvedic herb Withania somnifera. This herb is traditionally found in Africa and India and may be beneficial in the treatment of a variety of health issues. Ashwagandha extract is administered orally in capsule, tea or tincture form. Talk with your medical provider about the benefits of ashwagandha extract before you begin using this herbal treatment.

Historical Health Applications

In traditional Ayurvedic, Indian and African medicine, ashwagandha extract is used to decrease inflammation caused by arthritis, reduce fevers and protect the body against infectious diseases, the University of Michigan Health System reports. Treatment with ashwagandha, which is also referred to as Indian ginseng, has also been historically used to induce sleep. As a general health tonic, this type of extract is also purported to improve health and longevity and increase energy.http://www.ebiochem.com/

Stress Relief

In modern times, ashwagandha extract is classified by many herbalists as an adaptogen. Adaptogen is a specific substance believed to enhance your body’s ability to handle stress. Taking ashwagandha extract supplements may reduce stress and fatigue; however, to date, these medicinal benefits have only been demonstrated in animal studies. Additional clinical studies in humans are necessary to further support the stress-relieving properties of ashwagandha extract.http://www.ebiochem.com/

1

Improved Immune System Function

Ashwagandha extract may also help boost the function of your immune system, which may make it easier for your body to fight off pathogenic invaders. The high level of iron in this supplement may help stimulate red blood cell production or promote healthy growth in children, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center says. Prepared as a tea, ashwagandha extract may also increase the number of immune cells responsible for destroying infectious pathogens in your body. The results obtained from human trials examining the immune effects of ashwagandha extract are preliminary and additional, controlled studies are required to validate these findings.http://www.ebiochem.com/

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Tumor Activity

Steroidal constituents of ashwagandha, called withanolides, may act to decrease inflammation in your body, which may help reduce symptoms of pain or swelling. Additionally, in vitro studies performed using specific cancer cell lines demonstrate that ashwagandha extract may destroy cancer cells, Sloan-Kettering says. Though these preliminary results are encouraging, more extensive research studies in humans are necessary to substantiate the both the anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties of this supplement. http://www.ebiochem.com/

Additional Benefits

Additional benefits associated with ashwagandha extract include enhanced brain function, diminished depression and reduced anxiety, though sufficient data supporting these claims are lacking. Topical formulations of ashwagandha extract may serve as a analgesic for the skin. Treatment with this supplement has also been shown to improve blood sugar and insulin regulation; however, studies examining the effects of ashwagandha extract on blood sugar and insulin have only been performed in animals.

Nettle Root Extract for Bodybuilding

Nettle root extract, derived from the stinging nettle plant, is a popular supplement for body builders, and considered a relatively safe supplement as well. Unlike other more questionable supplements, such as ephedrine which is proven dangerous and in some cases lethal, nettle root extract may offer body builders a safer way to increase and utilize testosterone.

Body Builders

Stinging nettle extract is derived from the leaves and root of the plant, and is often used to treat anemia because the nettle leaves contain high concentrations of iron. In terms of body building, nettle extracts appear to impact the level of testosterone in the body. Testosterone tends to become “bound” to the sex hormone-binding globulin — SHBG — but it is more useful and less harmful when it is free to circulate. According to Bastyr University, nettle extract binds to SHBG by taking the place of testosterone, which is then free to roam.

 

th2

Anecdotal Effects

Testosterone is concentrated in muscle tissue. By keeping testosterone freely moving in the body, an increase in free flowing testosterone may increase your level of muscle strength and the amount of lean muscle. There are anecdotal reports that nettle extract also helps to replenish the amount of testosterone in the body, which can be dramatically diminished during a body building workout; However, these claims have not been scientifically verified. According the University of Maryland Medical Center, clinical research demonstrates that stinging nettle relieves the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, but it doesn’t shrink the prostate, so its mechanism of action is still unclear.

Supplements

Nettle extract is generally safe, with side effects including mild upset stomach and fluid retention. However, in commercial preparations, nettle extract is often combined with other supplements that are not so beneficial. The bodybuilding website Truly Huge touts Andro-Shock, a supplement containing nettle root extract, as one of “10 powerful testosterone boosters in one.” The ingredients also include tonkatali, DHEA and bulgarian tribulus terrestris, which can drive up testosterone levels.

Cautions

While nettle root extract may decrease the risk of prostate problems, in part by freeing up testosterone, body builders run risks by driving up their testosterone levels. Side effects of excessive testosterone can include: adverse effects on cholesterol; headaches; anxiety; irritability; rage; decreases in libido and increases in the risk of cancers, including prostate cancer. If you are a body builder, you should consult a medical expert about nettle root supplement and any other supplements you are taking. Taking nettle root extract may also interfere with prescription drugs, another reason to consult your health care provider before using the extract.