Gotu Kola, Triphala, and Amla

Gotu Kola, Triphala, and Amla are all herbals that hail from Ayurvedic medicine.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a mild adaptogen, is mildly antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, anxiolytic, nervine and vulnerary, and can act as a cerebral tonic, a circulatory stimulant, and a diuretic. It is used to effectively treat axniety and ADD/ADHD. It is used to revitalize the brain and nervous system, increase attention span and concentration, and to combat aging.

Triphala is an Ayurvedic herbal rasayana formula consisting of equal parts of three myrobalans, taken without seed: Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). It is a natural laxative and colon cleanser, tonifier, and rejuvenative that is non-habit forming. It cleanses and tonifies the gastro-intestinal tract and is effective for IBS, and those who suffer from intestinal maladies associated with Celiac's disease or wheat intolerance. Triphala has been shown to help with constipation, colon tonification, gastrointestinal tract tonifing, intestinal cleansing, digestive balance, better food assimilation, serum cholesterol balance, bile duct opening, sluggish peristalsis, headaches, liver health, and hemorrhoids.

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn. or Phyllanthus emblica Linn), commonly known as Indian gooseberry is arguably the most important medicinal plant in the Indian traditional system of medicine, Ayurveda. Various parts of the plant are used to treat a range of diseases, but the most important is the fruit. The fruit is used either alone or in combination with other plants to treat many ailments such as common cold and fever; as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, restorative, alterative, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, hair tonic; to prevent peptic ulcer and dyspepsia, and as a digestive. Preclinical studies have shown that amla possesses antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive, antiatherogenic, adaptogenic, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, antianemia, antihypercholesterolemia, wound healing, antidiarrheal, antiatherosclerotic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective properties. In addition, experimental studies have shown that amla and some of its phytochemicals such as gallic acid, ellagic acid, pyrogallol, some norsesquiterpenoids, corilagin, geraniin, elaeocarpusin, and prodelphinidins B1 and B2 also possess antineoplastic effects.

Amla is also reported to possess radiomodulatory, chemomodulatory, chemopreventive effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory activities, properties that are efficacious in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Amla can be taken in pill form or found in foods such as pickles and chutneys in Indian grocery markets. If eaten as a food, the process of completely digesting amla ensures that any foods eaten at about the same time are also completely digested. Potentially allergenic proteins are broken down, and the net effect is “cooling,” stopping the slow autoimmune reactions that generate inflammation all over the body.

The benefits of amla are not limited to digestion. Some of the most exciting research about amla is in the fight against metabolic syndrome, a combination of symptoms including moderately high cholesterol, moderately high blood pressure, and prediabetes. At least in the laboratory, fibers in amla help reverse the effects of excessive consumption of fructose. Furthermore, scientists at the Ferrara University in Italy have found that amla extracts slow the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone. Since osteoporosis is a process of osteoclasts (bone busters) outpacing osteoblasts (bone builders), a slight shift in balance of activity stops destruction of joints by arthritis without interfering with the bone’s ability to make normal repairs. Amla also shows real promise to become a proven way to stop age-related cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 55.

Parsley, Olive Oil, and Lemons...

Parsley is used to tonify the kidneys. This is something one might do after having a bout with a kidney stone. Parsley detoxifies the kidneys by flushing toxins out, and also is beneficial in the treatment and prevention of kidney stones. Parsley contains a compound named Apoil, which has now been isolated and used in medication to treat kidney ailments and kidney stones. In addition, parsley can be used to treat asthma, bladder problems, fluid retention, digestive problems, high blood pressure, infections, intestinal gas, arthritis/gout and rheumatism. Keep a close check on b/p and pulse while taking parsley - as an elevated pulse, skin rash, or light sensitivity will indicate an adverse reaction to the parsley. This is not an herb to be used long-term, but rather as a regular cleanse/tonification regimen.

For kidney stones, take 4oz dose of equal parts extra virgin olive oil (2 oz) and fresh squeezed lemon juice (2 oz). Definitely have some spring water on-hand to chase it down! By morning you should be voiding normally and in no pain.

I have used this remedy on our pets as well. My mother has a minature poodle who has heart issues. The diurhetic the dog has been put on blocks her kidneys, and as soon as we notice this, we begin treating her. We give her 1 tsp of this mixture every couple of hours until she is voiding normally again. Currently we are slowly weaning her off the pharmaceuticals and plan to have her strictly on herbs eventually.

Hawthorne Berry Extract - a life saver!

Hawthorn berry extract is a natural beta-blocker, blood pressure regulator, and diurhetic. It is a cardiac toner, hypotensive, vasodilator, astringent, relaxant, antispasmodic, diuretic, relaxes peripheral blood vessels and it also cleans plaque out of the arteries!

Hawthorn berry extract can be found in pill form as well as in juice/tincture. It is good for the heart as well as the stomach.

Hawthorn is good for the heart and also for circulation. Poor circulation can be caused by aging arteries, and can present as poor memory and confusion when blood supply is compromised to the brain, as well as poor circulation to the extremities resulting in cold feet and hands. The flowers, berries, and leaves have a vasodialator effect; it opens the arteries, which improves blood supply (circulation) and lowers blood pressure, especially in cases associatied with arterioscelrosis (hardening of the arteries or plaque build-up). Another is found in its action on the vagus nerve, which can slow tachycardia (an over-fast heart rate)and aid to ease heart irregularities such as angina.

Hawthorn berries have an astringent effect and has proven effective in treating diarrhea and dysentery. The leaves, berries and flowers are relaxants to the digestive tract, but also acts to increase appetite, and relieve bloating due to stagnation. They also have a diurhetic effect, relieving fluid retention and aiding to dissolve stones.

In addition, hawthorn berries relieve stress and anxiety, calm restlessness and palpitations, aiding those who suffer from insomnia.

Cayenne Pepper!

The name of this herb strikes fear into the masses! I hope that this article will help those of you who fear it, come to respect it and those who love it find that you love it all the more...

Cayenne (aka capsicum) is threefold: it is a nutritional herb, a medicinal herb, and a culinary herb.

Medicinally: Studies have shown it is helpful in treating dyspepsia, resuloting in significant improvements in pain, bloating, and nausea. For general digestion, Cayenne has been shown to rebuild the tissue in the stomach. It supports peristaltic action in the intestines. It aids elimination and assimilation, and even helps the body to create hydrochloric acid! In regards to heart health, cayenne is well-reknowned for its ability to boost over-all circulation (helping those who suffer from cold hands and feet) and also increases heart action (speeds metabolism) and aids to lower blood pressure. Capsicum is a mild and safe stimulant that has been known to aid in overcoming fatigue without harmful side effects of other stimulants. It has also been noted that using cayenne and hawthorn berries in conjunction for several months will greatly strengthen the heart. Cayenne has also exhibited anticancer activity (it induced programmed cell death to human cancer cells without affecting normal cells) against pancreatic cancer. It has shown to be effective as a topical pain reliever (a cream) for neuropathy and arthritis as well as itch relief for psoriasis, and when taken as a tea for sore throats and encapsulated for cluster headaches.

Nutritionally: It is high in vitamins, both vitamin A and vitamin C, contains the complete B complexes, and is rich in calcium and also potassium (making it a heart-healthy herb).

Culinarily: Cayenne pairs well with all meats, root & dark green vegetables, cheeses, stews, curries, chili, and is prevalently found in Mexican, Indian, and Asian cuisines. Keep a container on your table to use in place of black pepper!

Common Sage? Not so common;)

Sage is an incredible herb; used most commonly in seasoning stuffings, sausages, and roasting fowl. What is little known about the aromatic common sage is how very versatile a healing herb it is as well! Sage is also an astringent (shrinks mucous membranes), an antispasmodic (suppresses muscle spasms), an anthelmintic (fights off certain parasites), and is a vulnerary herb (used to treat wounds).

It can be used in mouthwashes to treat mouth sores, gargles to cleanse mucous in the throat, teas for relaxation and to relieve spasms, taken in capsules for parasitic cleanses, and in salve to treat wounds.

Metaphysically speaking, sage has been used to clear sacred space and to cleanse auras.

Pretty incredible herb, eh? Next up = Cayenne!

Conscious Living: Food Prep & Household Cleansers

I'd like to write a few things about how food should be prepared for optimal conscious living. Steer clear of all refined foods, and use only stevia or raw honey for your sweeteners. Foods should always be prepared as raw, steamed, boiled, baked, broiled, or lightly sauteed in ghee (clarified butter) or coconut oil; never fried/deep fried, microwaved, or barbecued.

Why ghee or coconut? Because they tolorate higher temperatures before evolving into toxicity. Wait a minute = toxicity??? YES. Frying foods in excessive heat can actually turn your oil and the food you are preparing toxic by forming trans fatty acids, free radicals and other dangerous molecules! So how hot is too hot? That differs from oil to oil and would be indicated by the oil's smoke point. When it begins to smoke, you're brewing poison. (Also, an oil's smoke point is not too far behind its flash point - which is the point at which it will catch fire!!)

Look at olive oil - a very healthy and highly recommended oil - but it is best consumed as a garnish or as part of a vinaigrette, as the highly beneficial extra virgin variety's smoke point falls in the low to medium heat range! While a light sautee in this oil on low heat would be lovely, this one is not for higher temps. For that sort of cooking, ghee can safely withstand heat up to 485 degrees, and coconut oil up to 350 degrees, which is a standard cooking temperature.

How about what you're cooking in...never use aluminium, teflon, or anything coated for non-stick - instead use stainless steel, cast iron, glass, or enamel.

Water - how many of you cook and make your morning beverage with bottled water? You should if you don't. Water treatment facilities only can clean so much out before water is returned to the drinking supply...not to mention the chemical toxins that are deliberately added as well. Consider how many people think nothing of flushing their old birth control pills, expired medications, etc down the toilet without a second thought. Now think about what sabotage this is to otherwise healthful living. If you're wanting to live holistically, do it across the board - drink and cook with only clean filtered or spring water.

Veggie washes - These are wonderful but diluted white vinegar works well and is much cheaper too!

White vinegar is incredible and SO useful in everyday cleaning! It's not just for cleaning your coffee pot:

1. Use a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water for a good, all-purpose bathroom cleaner.

2. Boil in your tea kettle to remove lime & sediment.

3. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water to use as a glass cleaner.

4. Use 1/2 c. white vinegar in your laundry to brighten clothes.


Want a simple furniture polish? Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive oil - let stand for several hours and then polish!

Clean copper with ketchup! The tomato and vinegar combine to strip away the tarnish.

Drain Cleaner - pour 1 cup baking soda & 1 cup salt down the drain - follow with a kettle of hot water. Use a plunger or snake to clear.

Household Pesticides:
* Use equal parts of boric acid and powdered sugar to keep roaches away.
* Use cedar chips instead of moth balls.
* Use cayenne pepper to prevent ant infestations.

Carpet Cleaner:
* For fresh stains, pour on a little club soda, let stand and then sponge up.
* For older stains, mix 2 tbsp dishwashing detergent, 3 tbsp vinegar, and 1 qt warm water. Work into stain and blot as dry as possible.

Rug Cleaner - Sprinkle cornstarch on the rug and vaccuum up.

Air Freshener - set out baking soda in an open dish.

Laundry Bleach - use 1/2 c. of either baking soda, borax, or white vinegar.

Light Duty Cleaner - Use a combination of 1 qt warm water, 1 tsp liquid soap, and 1 tsp borax to clean counters, floors, etc.

Scouring Mixture - rub area with baking soda or table salt on a damp sponge.

Oven Cleaner - wipe up spills soon after they occur with a mixture of baking soda, salt & water.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner - Use a toilet brush with baking soda, or pour 1/4 cup borax or 2 vitamin C tablets into water and let stand over night before flushing.

Tub & Sink Cleaner - Rub with lemon. For bad stains, make a paste of peroxide and cream of tartar, scrub with a small brush.

Upholstery Cleaner - Mix 1/2 cup mild detergent with 2 cups boiling water. Cool until a jelly forms. Whip with handmixer for stiff foam and apply.

Conscious Eating

Spring is springing and it's time for lighter, cooler, fresher, greener, lower fat fare. It's the perfect time to make some very simple, low-cost and free modifications to your lifestyle to enrich your health and wellbeing...I speak of a concept known as conscious eating.

About six years ago, I learned some very valuable lessons during a cleansing period I experienced through my Chirovedic doctor. As mentioned previously, I am returning to that mindset for my personal health and well being. Here are some things I've learned...

First and foremost, always give thanks for what is set before you. Appreciate what you are about to consume, and awaken to your connection with the food you have chosen. Choose only fresh, clean, whole foods - no canned, prepackaged, or mass prepared fare. Frozen fruits/veggies are okay when fresh is not in season or is otherwise unavailable. If you consume meats, opt for organics and keep to fish and/or poultry.

In conscious eating, it is critical that you take TIME OUT to eat mindfully, rather than rushing to get through with your plate and on to the next task. This is harder to do than it sounds. What this essentially means is to focus on your food and eat it slowly - not driving, not watching tv, not working, not reading, not while having inflammatory conversations, and not web-surfing, gaming, or emailing. The point is to gift yourself with the enjoyment of just sanely eating. When you constantly eat on the go, your body naturally responds with flight or fight reactions that cause you to gain and retain weight despite how little you consume.

When preparing your plate, Ayurveda teaches us that no more than can fit in your two cupped hands should ever be consumed for a meal. This is what should proportionately fill your stomach at any one time. Thanks to all of the super-sizing in fast-foods and larger-than-life platters in fine dining, people who were raised to clean their plates have lost focus on just how much they should consume in one meal. This hand measurement really simplifies things - doesn't it? Listen to your body - eat only what it wants - NOT WHAT YOUR MIND WANTS. There is a huge difference here. How many times have you gone back for more than you want/need because of flavor or feel and then felt the pain of overindulgence? You should only eat until your body is satisfied, not until you are full, because your body does not immediately register that feeling of fullness. This usually takes about 20 minutes - so sit back and wait to see if you are truly still hungry before consuming more.

It has been stated that you should eat like a princess at breakfast, like a queen at lunch, and like a pauper at dinner. Try to focus on heavier, richer foods at midday, as this is when your metabolism and Agni are at their highest. The later it becomes in the day, the lighter your fare should be. At a minimum, 30-40 percent of the fruits and vegetables you eat daily should be eaten raw or very lightly steamed. Being conscious of what you are eating will make you conscious of what you're spending. Make a budget and realise that not eating out so much will free up funds to buy better quality, clean foods for you and your family. It's all about making choices.

Thirst is often mistaken for hunger. When you feel hunger, drink some water and see if you are still hungry about 30 minutes before choosing to eat. Water is the elixir of life. Clean water, that is - and just how much should you drink in a day? Weigh yourself - and divide that number by two, and you'll know the number of ounces you personally should have daily...so a person who weighs say, 200 pounds should consume 100 ounces of water each day - that's pure, clean water - not tea, coffee, koolaid, etc.

Now let's look at utensils - I have to admit that I find this a challenge and yet also so very true. In most Western countries, we eat with a knife, fork, and/or spoon - right? Consider that in the East, that most food is prepared as bite-sized when it comes to the table and is eaten with chopsticks or fingers. Now think about the difference between stabbing and cutting your food on your own plate, and gently picking it up with chopsticks or soft bread instead. Discover how very peaceful eating can really be by changing your technique to chopsticks and hands. An interesting thing about eating with the hands - Ayurveda teaches that the fingertips contain enzymes that actually help us to digest our food. In Western cultures, we have gotten so far away from this practice, we lose this natural benefit to our digestive systems.

Another key to consider is that foods should be eaten without drinking as stomach acids work so much better when not diluted. That's not to say you shouldn't have some water on hand should you find yourself choking - just don't drown your food while you are ingesting it. Small sips here and there are fine. Wait about 30 minutes after eating before drinking large amounts of liquids and likewise, wait 30 minutes after drinking significant volumes before eating food.

Try to have your last meal of the day before the sun goes down so you're not going to bed on a full stomach. Alot of us like to sleep on our bellies, and this slows down the digestive process.

That's about all I have on conscious eating...I hope you have found some healthful new habits to incorporate into your lifestyle!