The Herb Hound

Tuesday, August 7, 2018

CASCARA SAGRADA

CASCARA SAGRADA - Rhamnus Purshiana, Rhamnus Frangula, Rhamnus Californica, Rhamnus Alnifolia.

Also known as: Persian bark, bearberry, sacred bark, California buckthorn, chittem bark.

Parts used: aged bark.

Systems: spleen, stomach, colon, liver, lungs.

Properties: purgative (emetic), bitter tonic, alterative, laxative, hepatic, stomachic, nervine, peristaltic, febrifuge, antibilious, antidiabetic, antifungal, antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory.

Cascara Sagrada is a type of tree/shrub native to the western region of North America (specifically the Pacific Northwest) and can be found from British Columbia to Montana and south to central California. It also is cultivated in parts of Africa and South America now as well. It has finely serrated leaves that can get up to five inches in length and has a reddish-brown bark and red berries that turn purple or black when ripe. Each berry has three seeds in it. It can get up to 20 feet tall and loves moist, acidic soil; therefore, it is mainly found in or around forest edges and shaded clearings. The bark is what is harvested for medicinal use and must be aged a year or more in order to use.

Cascara Sagrada, like so many, is an herb of controversy. It was used by Native Americans for hundreds of years as a laxative and an emetic. The bark was collected in both spring and summer and then dried for later use. The bark was either scraped in an upwards motion (if patient needed to vomit) or in a downward motion (for a laxative). The berries or fresh bark were not ingested as they have severe purgative effects and could cause harm to those ingesting them. The Spanish referred to it as 'sacred bark' after seeing how effective it was for a number of things (again due to Native American influence). European settlers also adopted the natives' use of the herb but it wasn't until 1877 when Eli Lily introduced it in a product called 'Elixir Purgans' that it was formally recognized as a medicine; it was later added to the U.S. Pharmacopocia where it remains today. It was even approved for use by the FDA, but they have since removed it from the 'safe' list. (The FDA notified manufacturers prior to removal to submit studies that showed its safety and effectiveness but the cost of conducting those studies was such that no companies submitted information. As such it was removed from all OTC products/drugs and is only sold as a 'dietary supplement' today.

Cascara Sagrada is rich in anthraquinones - namely frangulin, chysophanol, emodin, aloe-emodin, iso-emodin, rhein and aloins. Anthraquinones are commonly used for constipation and have strong antibacterial properties, especially against gram positive and gram negative pathogens in the intestinal tract. The hydroxyanthraquinones have been used for leukemia and to suppress the immune system during skin grafting procedures. Cascara also has been a chelating agent to prevent stone formation, to expel worms in some of the populations in Africa, and as a remedy for liver diseases by various cultures.
While it is best known for its use as a laxative, it also has been proven effective for gallstones (promotes bile flow and digestive juices), weight loss (as a tea), insomnia (soothes the nerves), aging (helps get rid of blemishes and wrinkles), hair problems (conditioning, strengthening, and prevents dry, flaky scalp), cancer (high in antioxidants and especially effective for lung and stomach cancer, and protects against chemotherapy damage), dehydration (helps the skin stay hydrated and fresh), high blood pressure, hemorrhoids, nervous disorders, liver issues, congestion, lynphatic problems, etc. It has also been proven effective against E. coli, candida, several strains of staph, and H. pylori.

Cascara Sagrada has a significant amount of nutrients as well offering calcium, chromium, cobalt, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium, silicon, tin, zinc, and the vitamins beta carotene, C, B3, B1, inositol, and PABA.

Cascara Sagrada is one of those plants that doesn't play well with pharmaceuticals. If you take digitoxin, water pills, corticosteroids, laxatives, anti-inflammatories, and/or blood thinners, then you shouldn't use this herb. High doses of cascara can cause diarrhea, and long term use can turn one's urine a brownish yellow (indicating a loss of potassium). Pregnant and/or nursing women shouldn't use it. WebMD also states that those with kidney and/or liver conditions, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, anemia, hernias, heart disease, appendicitis, colon issues, cancer, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and congestive heart failure should avoid taking cascara sagrada.

MINER'S LETTUCE

MINER'S LETTUCE - Montia Perfoliata, Claytonia Perfoliata,

Montia Cordifolia.

Also known as: Indian lettuce, Winter purslane, Spring Beauty.

Parts used: whole plant.

Systems/Organs affected: heart, lymph, blood, liver.

Properties: tonic, nutritive, anti-rheumatic, anti-scorbutic, diuretic, mucilaginous, anti-inflammatory.

Miner's Lettuce is a lovely little plant often looked on as a weed (as it can be invasive). Nothing could be further from the truth. It was once classified as part of the purslane family (Claytonia), but has since been put into its own class (Monticeae). There are roughly 230 species of Miner's Lettuce. This plant is considered an annual (even though it seems to come back every year) that can get up to a foot tall. The leaf stalks can get from 3-12 inches long and the leaves kind of have this cup and saucer shape. The flowers grow up through the bottom center of the leaf on a stalk of its own. The flowers are usually pink or white, have five petals, and are very tiny. Miner's Lettuce is native to the western coastal and mountain regions, It grows from British Columbia to California and east into Idaho and Montana. It can be found in lots of states now, though, especially in forest areas where the soils are dry and/or moist and shaded. It was also introduced to Western Europe about the 18th century, and it has flourished on that continent as well. Miner's Lettuce is an early green, generally appearing between March and June.

Miner's Lettuce is a plant that cannot be mistaken for something else given its unique look. It actually got its name from miners back in the 1800s as they consumed the plant to keep from getting scurvy. It also was used in tea form as a cleansing agent to filter the blood and lymph systems; it was later found that the tea could cleanse the liver as well. The Native Americans refer to it is Indian Lettuce and, aside from eating it, used it as a spring tonic, a laxative, a diuretic, and mashed it up to use as a poultice for rheumatic joints, minor burns, and skin irritations. The Songish Indians used it for headaches. The roots were also boiled, peeled, and eaten (they were said to taste like chestnuts).

Miner's Lettuce also has quite a bit of nutritive value. Just a small handful of this herb provides around 500mg Vitamin C, about 10% of your daily requirements of iron, and 22% of your daily requirements for Vitamin A. Also called 'winter purslane' (no doubt due to its early arrival in the year), it contains a fair amount of Omega 3s (ALAs as well) which makes the plant a decent option for cardiovascular function.

Miner's Lettuce has a knack of being able to thrive in places where other plants may not; it is said that a farmer once saw Miner's Lettuce thriving in his fields while his area was experiencing the worst drought in history. The farmer stated, "Whatever is in that plant that keeps it alive and healthy, I want that in my blood." Miner's Lettuce is rich in chlorophyll, which provides quick energy for the lymph and liver (not to mention hastening the detoxification process).

While Miner's Lettuce is considered a mild plant, please consult a qualified physician before starting any herb or herbal regimen.

As is customary with my posts I am including some links for your perusal. Enjoy! Stay strong and healthy!

https://www.amazon.com/Outsidepride-Winter-Purslane-5000-Seeds/dp/B006U1R9CK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1533671562&sr=8-2&keywords=miners+lettuce

https://www.amazon.com/Miners-Lettuce-Seeds-Claytonia-Perfoliata-Cold-hardy/dp/B01CUNH408/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1533671562&sr=8-15&keywords=miners+lettuce

HIBISCUS

https://www.amazon.com/Hibiscus-CERTIFIED-Resealable-U-S-Wellness/dp/B01KKJIKJ8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1533669724&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=hibiscus&psc=1

HIBISCUS - Hibiscus sabdariffa, hibiscus rosa-sinesis, hibiscus mutabilis, hibiscus tiliaceus, hibiscus syriacus, hibiscus amottianus, hibiscus lobatus, hibiscus hirtus, etc.

Also known as: Roselle, Red sorrel, Rosemallow, Jamaica sorrel.

Parts used: flower, calyx.

Systems/Organs affected: liver, stomach.

Properties: anti-carcinogenic, anti-hypertensive, anti-aging, vermifuge, antidepressant, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, digestive, hepato-protective, alterative, astringent, antibacterial, diuretic, cholagogue, emmenagogue, laxative, appetite depressant, anti-inflammatory, refrigerant, diaphoretic.

Hibiscus is a member of the Malvaceae (Mallow) family. It is a shrub-like plant native to Africa and SE Asia but now can be found in most tropical and/or subtropical places in the world. It even can be grown from inside a kitchen window given the right conditions. The leaves can be lance shaped to ovate with lobed and/or toothed margins. The flowers are trumpet shaped, large, and vary in color. Some species even change color with age. The 'fruit' is a dry, five-lobed capsule with seeds that splits open when mature. There are several hundred species of hibiscus across the globe.

Hibiscus is a flower adored by many. It is the national flower of South Korea, the Solomon Islands, Malaysia, and Haiti. In India, it is found in depictions of Kali, a Hindu goddess. The flower is often given as an offering to the goddess and Lord Ganesha in Hindu culture. The flowers also are worn by Hawaiian and Tahitian women. If the flower is worn behind the right ear, the woman is single; behind the left ear, she is married or unavailable. It also is the state flower of Hawaii. In the Philippine's, it is used to amuse children as part of bubble making. The leaves and flowers are mashed until the sticky juices appear. Then hollow papaya stalks are dipped in the juice and used like straws to blow bubbles. There are even varieties of hibiscus that are used to make paper.

Hibiscus tea is a popular beverage in many countries, served hot or cold. Taken on its own it has a taste similar to cranberry, hence its common nickname of 'sour tea.' In Cambodia, the petals are steeped in hot water until the colors are leached out. Lime juice is then added which turns the beverage a bright red color and honey is added. The final touch is cold water and ice. Sounds downright delicious to me!

Dried hibiscus is considered a delicacy in Mexico where it is often eaten. The flower also is often candied and used as garnish for desserts.

Hibiscus has been used by many cultures for medicinal purposes, also. Although Ayurvedic medicine has used it for millenia as a cooling agent (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is the variety most often used), Hibiscus sabdariffa is perhaps the most popular version used medicinally. Lucky for us, there actually have been a few studies conducted on this plant proving its benefits. In 2015, the American Heart Association published a study stating that hibiscus tea could lower blood pressure. (Journal of Hypertension, 2015 Jun; 33(6): 1119-27.) A study conducted by Tufts University confirmed this and said that consuming hibiscus tea daily could lower blood pressure by as much as ten (10) points. The study mentioned that to achieve this one must drink three (3) cups daily for a few weeks. In 2013, the University of Arizona found that hibiscus tea is used in over ten countries as a normal treatment of hypertension. A study done in Nigeria (Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 2015, 18(6); 762-770) found it to be more effective in lowering blood pressure than hydrochlorothiazide (a medication commonly used for this purpose).

Hibiscus is high in antioxidants which makes it beneficial for a host of things. Studies conducted on both animals and humans found that it increases metabolism. Hibiscus extract has been found to lower one's absorption of glucose and starch and inhibit amylase production which helps with weight loss. (Incidentally, that is why you find it in a number of weight loss products.); this also may prove beneficial for diabetics and those who are insulin resistant as it can help maintain proper blood sugar levels.

It also appears that hibiscus is good for triglycerides and cholesterol. A study published in Phyto Medicine in 2010 found that hibiscus naturally lowered cholesterol and triglycerides in those with metabolic syndrome (elevates risk of diabetes and stroke) and diabetes. (Phyto Medicine, 2010 Jun; 17(7): 500-505.) A 2009 study published in the Journal of Alternative Complimentary Medicine observed that diabetics that ingested two (2) cups of hibiscus tea daily for a month found a significant drop in their bad cholesterol and triglycerides and an increase in good cholesterol.

There even is evidence that hibiscus may be useful for cancer. Hibiscus extract was found to cause cell death in carcinogenic gastric cells and leukemia cells. (Toxicology & Applied Pharmacology, 2005 Jun 15; 205(3):201-12.

Hibiscus tea also has been found to increase the amount of antioxidants in the blood stream and reduce oxidative stress. As it is high in Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, it helps fight the symptoms of depression such as loss of hope, fatigue, no interest in hobbies or things that make one happy. (BMC Complimentary Alternative Medicine, 2012; 12(41) doi:10.1188/1472-6882-12-41.)

Animal studies have shown that hibiscus may be beneficial as a preventative for kidney stones and/or urinary tract infections. (Urol Res, 2012 Jun; 40(3) 211-8.)

One lab found hibiscus rosa-sinesis effective for MRSA. MRSA is responsible for over 90,000 staph infections every year. (Tropical Life Sciences Research 2009 Dec; 20(2): 109-118.)

Hibiscus is often used to satiate thirst in place of sports drinks (it is generally consumed as an iced beverage for this). There is something to this as in Asian and Ayurvedic medicine it is commonly used to cool down the body - especially in emergency situations.

It has been found to be anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and a hepato-protectant (except in extremely high amounts).

Despite its amazing benefits, it can have some drawbacks. It shouldn't be used by pregnant women as it stimulates menstruation and it can lower one's estrogen levels; so if you are on HRT you may want to avoid hibiscus as a regular beverage. However, for those who are estrogen dominant and have problems with menstrual cycle regularity - this might give you encouragement.

Hibiscus should not be taken by those on blood pressure medications, diabetic medication, or those taking anti-malarials or cancer drugs. It has been found to impact the way acetaminophen (Tylenol) is used by the body, it may cause allergies in some people, and some have experienced hallucinations.

AS ALWAYS, CONSULT A QUALIFIED PHYSICIAN BEFORE STARTING ANY HERBAL PRODUCT AND/OR REGIMEN.

As is customary with my posts I am including some links below for your benefit. Enjoy and stay strong and healthy!

https://www.amazon.com/Hibiscus-CERTIFIED-Resealable-U-S-Wellness/dp/B01KKJIKJ8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1533669724&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=hibiscus&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Traditional-Medicinals-Organic-Hibiscus-Herbal/dp/B00PO9MVYU/ref=sr_1_15_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533669724&sr=8-15&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Starwest-Botanicals-Hibiscus-Flowers-Organic/dp/B00ZDO4ZWC/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1533669724&sr=8-18&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Hibiscus-Flowers-Syrup-ounces/dp/B000QFPY8C/ref=sr_1_20_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533669724&sr=8-20&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/nature-CERTIFIED-Hibiscus-SABDARIFFA-Natural/dp/B0778FQG9G/ref=sr_1_20_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670296&sr=8-20&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Organic-Hibiscus-Flower-Tea-Caffeine/dp/B00DLK7Y32/ref=sr_1_20_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670341&sr=8-20&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Solaray-Guaranteed-Potency-Hibiscus-VCapsules/dp/B00DGMVQV6/ref=sr_1_24_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670374&sr=8-24&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/EXOTIC-HAWAIIAN-SUNSET-HIBISCUS-STARTER/dp/B077PYWCGY/ref=sr_1_26?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670412&sr=8-26&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Hibiscus-Flowers-Tabletop-Decoration-24/dp/B000WZ4JGO/ref=sr_1_29?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670435&sr=8-29&keywords=hibiscus

https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Hibiscus-Flower-Concentrate-Blure/dp/B01IW92ZTE/ref=sr_1_35_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1533670477&sr=8-35&keywords=hibiscus