The General Principles of Sexually Stimulating Herbs

The working principles of the chemical components in these herbs are of several kinds, and the ingredients make their effects at different places in the human body.

• Some herbal ingredients stimulate generally the function of the neural system. Since sexual response and feelings are dependent of a well working neural system, the herbs will also increase the sexual response.
• Other herbal ingredients generally improve the body’s blood circulation. The better blood flow and the better control of the blood flow will then make the genital organs work better and engorge better upon sexual stimulation. Better engorgement will stimulate the feeling bodies at the nerve endings in the sexual organs and thus give stronger physical feelings.
• There are components in some herbs that stimulate tissue growth and regeneration. Such components can make structures in the sexual organs grow stronger and more capable to do their work.
• Some herbal ingredients stimulate directly centres in the central nervous system that play an important role in the sexual response, and thus increase the psychological arousal. A higher psychological arousal will cause signals to be sent to the sexual organs so that they will engorge more strongly and produce more sexual secretions.
• Still other herbal components stimulate the feeling bodies in the genital organs directly, and will thereby give stronger physical feelings. The stimulation of the feeling bodies will also make the central nervous system send signals back to the sexual organs and make them work more efficient.
• Some herbal ingredients will stimulate the production of sexual hormones or other hormones important for the sexual functions, or they will normalize a disturbed hormonal system.

Some Important Herbs Used for Sexual Stimulation

Here are some important sexually stimulating herbs presented. Many of the herbs stimulate the human organism at several points and thus have more than one type of effect. Where not otherwise indicated, both men and women will feel the stimulating effect.

• Bayberry: The fruits increase blood flow and capillary dilation in the mucus membranes of the vagina, and thus stimulate vaginal lubrication.
• Catuaba: Catuaba is a South American bush. It has long been used as an aphrodisiac by Indians, and is the most important sexually stimulating plant used in South America nowadays. Catuaba generally stimulates the central nervous system, and especially the functions controlling sexual response.
• Cayenne (Cayenne pepper, Spanish pepper): From the fruit one gets a well known spice with a very strong taste. The spice stimulates tissue growth and regeneration. This will make the sexual organs stronger and more efficient. Cayenne also makes the digestion and intestinal functions more effective and promotes heart functions.
• Coffee or tea stimulates the central nervous system to a higher activity and thereby also the sexual arousal. Taking a cup of coffee before sexual activity is often a good idea.
• Cuscuta: The seeds of cuscuta stimulate and normalizes the part of the nervous system that controls the sexual organs. This effect helps control premature ejaculation, helps control urination and vitalizes the functions of the sexual organs. It also has a general stimulating effect upon the nervous system.
• Damiana: Damiana is a small Mexican shrub, of which the leaves are used for medical purposes. Damiana stimulates the function of the sympathetic nerves controlling the sexual organs, the urinary system, the digestive organs and the respiratory organs. The herb thus strengthens all the functions of the sexual organs and urinary system. The herbs have many of the same effects as the female hormone progesterone, and therefore the herb works especially effective for women.
• Ginseng: There are many species of the herb ginseng, growing both in East Asia and Northern America. Ginseng stimulates neural functions and bodily activities. Ginseng stimulates and normalizes the blood flow in the brain and sexual organs. Ginseng also stimulates nerve growth, blood production and sperm production. This stimulation will in turn give a general rejuvenating effect, stronger arousal, better genital functions and stronger physical feelings.
• Hawthorn: Hawthorn is a tree growing in all temperate zones of the world. The fruits are used. Hawthorn stimulates heart functions and blood flow, and helps to reduce atherosclerotic plaque in blood vessels. This general positive effect upon blood circulation will in turn improve sexual functions as for example female engorgement and male erection.
• Horny goat weed (Epidemium): This is an East Asian herb. The whole plant except the root is used in herbal preparations. This herb stimulates the sensorial bodies in the sexual organs, giving stronger genital feelings. It also increases sperm production, giving better fertility. It further stimulates sexual desire by acting upon the central nervous system. The herb also increases the general activity of the nervous system and thereby the general vitality.
• Johimbe; Johimbe is a tall and evergreen tree growing in tropical areas of Africa. The bark stimulates the blood flow in the genitals and therefore helps against erection problems. However, in higher doses the drug can cause hypertension, digestive problems and manic reactions.
• Maca; This South American herb stimulates sexual desire and drive.
• Muira Pauma: Muria Puama is a Brazilian shrub, known as “Potency Wood”. Extracts of the bark is used. Muira Puama stimulates sexual desire and libido, and thereby increases potency.
• Suma: Suma root stimulates and normalizes the hormone production of the whole body, both the production of systemic hormones and local hormones. The improved hormonal system will then improve mental and physical sexual functions.
• Peppermint: Leaves of the peppermint plant stimulate the secretion of lubricating substances in the genital system. This facilitates the sexual act and protects the sexual organ against injury.

On the market you can find pills, tinctures or teas made of one or more of these herbs. What herbs or herbal product you should choose, depend on your purpose. The purposes are generally of 6 kinds:

• Increased libido or sexual desire.
• Increased feelings in the genital region.
• Better erection or sexual performance.
• Better lubrication.
• Increased strength or size of the genitals.
• Increased fertility.

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Daily Tonic Herbs for Women
Herbs for Premenstrual Syndrome
Fertility Herbs
Herbs for Pregnancy
Herbs for Masititis
Herbs for Menopause
Herbs for Yeast infections

Nourishing ourselves daily with herbs, healthy food, exercise, fresh air, inspiring work and sound sleep goes far to insuring a high quality of health and a life we enjoy. These things also make it possible to avoid imbalances before they occur.

For optimal health we need to keep our hormones balanced, keep our livers functioning properly and keep our adrenal systems healthy.

There are many herbs to assist us with these tasks. Each herb has unique properties and specific functions. Some are quite powerful and it’s extremely important to familiarize yourself with each herb that you use.

Most tonic herbs work best when taken daily over time. Take the time to learn about body systems and what herbs may benefit you most for the stage of life you’re in and the specific needs you have.

Herbs for women generally fall under these four categories:
Uterine Tonics

Herbs that strengthen and tone the female reproductive system:

• CHASTE TREE BERRY
• DANDELION
• DONG QUAI
• GINGER
• OAT STRAW
• NETTLE
• RASPBERRY LEAF

Uterine Contractors

These are herbs that cause the uterus to contract. They are generally used to bring on a late period or assist in childbirth. Some of them work by irritating the lining of the uterus. Others contain oxytocin and produce prostaglandins which cause the uterus to contract. Some of these herbs are toxic. If you are going to use uterine contractors it is advised that you seek the wisdom of a practicing herbalist.

• BLUE COHOSH ROOT
• PARSLEY ROOT/LEAF
• PENNYROYAL LEAF/FLOWER
• RUE LEAF
• TANSY LEAF
• Emmenagogues

*because these herbs promote menstruation they are generally not to be used during pregnancy.

Herbs that stimulate and promote normal menstrual flow:

• BLUE COHOSH
• DONG QUAI
• GINGER
• MOTHERWORT
• MUGWORT
• PENNYROYAL
• YARROW

Hormonal Balancers and Regulators

These are herbs that help normalize the functions of the endocrine glands, which govern the female reproductive system. They have a strong effect on the liver. A properly functioning liver is crucial to balancing hormones.

• BLACK COHOSH
• CHASTE TREE BERRY
• LICORICE ROOT
• MILK THISTLE SEED
• WILD YAM ROOT
• LEMON BALM

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Pregnancy is a time of rapid physical and emotional changes in the body. Herbs can be very useful in toning and nourishing the system to help allay potential problems and remedy discomforts that pregnant women may experience.

• Attention to nutrition can go a long way in preventing possible complications.
• Mood swings and morning sickness, which are quite common, are connected to low blood sugar.
• A lack of calcium can result in hypertension, backaches and severe labor pains.
• Malnutrition during pregnancy can cause constipation, hemorrhoids, anemia, and even pre-eclampsia.
• It’s absolutely vital to get enough vitamins, minerals and protein during pregnancy.

Useful Herbs for Pregnancy

2 Wonderful Pregnancy Tonic Herbs

Tonic herbs are those which act slowly and have a cumulative effect in the body. They are most effective when used over a period of several months. They are used during pregnancy to supply vital nourishment, increase energy and tone the uterus.

1. RASPBERRY LEAF This herb is considered to be the most widely used, safestpregnancy tonic of any herb. It contains an alkaloid called fragrine which helps tone the uterus and pelvic floor muscles. This herb also contains vitamins C and E as well as iron and calcium. Regular use during pregnancy is said to help prevent miscarriage, ease morning sickness, facilitate an easier labor, and assist in the production of plentiful breast milk.
2. NETTLE LEAVES This tonic herb is a nutritional powerhouse, containing every vitamin & mineral known to be needed for human growth. It is said to have more chlorophyll than any other herb also. Regular use of nettle infusion during pregnancy ensures a plentiful supply of nutrients, helps reduce hemorrhoids, helps prevent postpartum hemorrhage, eases leg cramps and muscle spasms and nourishes the kidneys. Nettle is also a wonderful herb for lactation as it promotes a rich supply of breast milk. Many women nourish themselves after pregnancy with this nutritional powerhouse. Nettle’s high mineral content has been used traditionally to support women postpartum by nourish the nervous system and stabilizing hormone levels.

Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

The internal use of the following herbs is contraindicated during pregnancy:
Alkanet, Aloe, Angelica, Anise, Anise Star, Arnica, Ashwaganda, Barley Grass, Barberry, Basil, Bitter Melon, Black Cohosh, Bladderwrack, Blessed Thistle, Blood Root, Blue Cohosh, Blue Flag, Blue Vervain, Borage, Buckthorn, California Poppy, Cascara Sagrada, Catnip, Celandine, Celery, Chervil, Cinnamon, Club Moss, Comfrey, Coltsfoot, Cubeb, Dong Quai, Elecampane, Ephedra, False Unicorn, Fenugreek, Feverfew, Ginger, Golden Seal, Gravel, Guarana, Gymnema, Horehound, Horsetail, Hyssop, Juniper, Lemongrass, Licorice, Lobelia, Lovage, Lungwort, Mace, Motherwort, Mugwort, Muira Puama, Myrrh, Neem, Oregon Grape, Osha, Parsley, Pennyroyal, Pleurisy, Prickly Ash, Red Clover, Rhodiola, Rosemary, Rue, Sage, Sassafras, Sarsaparilla, Senna, Shepherds Purse, Spikenard, Turkey Rhubarb, Turmeric, Uva Ursi, Vitex, Watercress, White Sage, Wormwood, Yarrow.

*note: It is the therapeutic use of these herbs which is considered to be unsafe. In other words, you can still put a little cinnamon in your oatmeal! Just don’t use it in large doses.

Also, some herbalists do use some of these herbs for pregnancy related ailments. For example, Susun Weed suggests MOTHERWORT to help prevent fatigue and mood swings, and many women benefit from the use of GINGER ROOT tea for preventing heartburn or to ease morning sickness.

To be confident in using herbs for pregnancy, get yourself a good herbal book, such as Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun S. Weed. Or work with an herbalist you know and trust.

Many midwives incorporate the use of herbs for pregnancy related symptoms or to tone ans strengthen the uterus.

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And there’s no better way to delight in their pungent aromatic qualities than to grow them right outside your kitchen door.

Once you have an organic herb garden you will fall in love with them. Most herbs are fairly easy to grow. They don’t have to take up much space, or much of your time.

Herbs don’t suffer much from insect attack and they are not prone to disease problems. Most will survive even if quite neglected – but we want our herbs to grow healthy and vigorously to best serve us. So let’s look at creating the best conditions for your herb garden.

Where To Grow Your Organic Herbs

If you are lucky enough to have plenty of room for a plot dedicated to growing herbs, then that’s great. A great way to grow herbs together is in a spiral. I like to interplant herbs throughout my garden, taking advantage of their wonderful Companion Planting benefits, as well as having the ones I use most in the kitchen close by for easy access.

Many herbs originate from the Mediterranean and prefer conditions suited to that climate. Such as hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Often the hotter the summer, the more aromatic the oils of the herb become.

Although most herbs will grow in partial shade, they will grow best if you choose a site with between 4 and 6 hours of sunlight per day.

The majority of herbs prefer a well-drained soil, but will cope with varying soil types. You can always improve your starting soil by adding organic matter, including compost and mulching. If your soil doesn’t drain well you might consider building raised beds or growing your herbs in containers.

Most herbs don’t require much in the way of fertilizers. Adding compost as a mulch with a layer of pea straw or similar over the top is enough to keep most herbs thriving.

Growing Your Organic Herbs In Containers

Herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow in containers. With some thought to position of the sun, you can grow them quite successfully on patios, balconies, terraces and verandas. This way you can quite literally have them at your back door – or even in your window sill. Container growing is particularly useful if you live in a very cold winter climate, so that you can over-winter your herbs in containers indoors.

You can choose pretty much any container to grow herbs in. You could get pretty creative with your container as long as it has enough drainage and is not something that may have any toxic residue. But if you’re not all that creative there are custom planters, large shallow pots that allow several types of herbs to grow together, strawberry pots and window boxes – and I’m sure there are even more options to choose from.

Smaller herbs are going to be the best choice for container plants. You might be surprised at how many types of herbs would be happy growing together in the same pot. Choosing slow growing herbs will mean that you won’t have to keep them tidy. Snipping what you want for dinner will keep them compact and bushy. Always select healthy herbs to give them the best start. Remove any dead or diseased leaves to keep them healthy.

When potting them up into their container remember that they’ll be there for a while, so choose a good, well drained potting mix. Because most herbs don’t need a lot of fertilizer, choose a potting mix without added fertilizer. Container plants require more attention to watering needs as they will dry out much faster than plants in the ground. On hot, dry days you may need to water small containers twice a day.

Seasonal Care

Keeping weeds out of your organic herb garden and watering well during summer are the two main requirements to keeping your established herbs healthy. Mulching will be a big help with both of these tasks. It will also help keep your herb roots cool. Apply a thick layer of mulch – about 3 or 4 inches / 8-10 cm to be effective. If you live in an area with severe winters you will need to over-winter some herbs or treat them as annuals and plant new plants in spring.

Your will benefit greatly by including herbs in your organic garden. They offer so much, yet ask so little. Some herbs are best treated as groundcovers, some make delightful edging plants, but I prefer to grow most of my herbs amongst other plants. They truly come into their own when their beauty and aromas can be experienced intimately and often.

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Herb Gardening Organically

As a hobby, herb gardening the organic way, gives you a way to use what you have grown in your favorite recipes and add great flavors. You will find that organic herb gardening supplies are not expensive and your local garden center will have everything you need to get started. Herbs are so easy to grow and can be very rewarding for the home hobby gardener. There is nothing more satisfying than to be able to go out into our own gardens and pick something so fresh to add to our favorite dishes. With organic herb gardening what is planted can be used so well and the organic type of gardening is much healthier.

Herbs And What To Grow

Herbs have so much value, they are not just aesthetic, although herbs will add a wonderful fragrance to the gardens. There are several types of herbs that you can grow, why not start with the varieties for a particular type of cooking like, Italian or Thai. These types of herbs are called the culinary herbs. Why not research the different types of herbs that can be grown in your area. Once you start using your home grown herbs, from your very own organic herb garden, there will be such a difference in the flavor they add to your cooking that you will never want to use the dried herbs again. That is unless they are the dried herbs that you have dried yourself, as these taste so different to the commercial ones you buy in the grocery stores.

Herb Plants

If you start with the herb seeds, make sure you read the instructions on the packet first and follow them. Some seeds can be sown directly where they are to grow, others need to be raised in seedbeds and planted out later when they are a certain size. Organic herb plants are easy to take care of and are not bothered by too many pests. The mint variety should not be planted out into a garden as it will become almost like a weed and take over everything. But by all means, plant mint in a pot, I would plant all types of mint in pots, regardless of their variety. Organic herb plants can be grown in a window box, all types of containers, amongst other plants and flowers. Make sure that wherever you plant your herbs they have the right growing and soil conditions and of course, drainage. These organic herb plants have so many options for you, use fresh, dried or extract the oils. Oils from herbs have so many uses.

Organic herb gardening is all about growing herbs using the same methods as for organic farming. Organic herb gardening can be less expensive than other methods. The key to being successful with organic herb gardening is working with nature, this is better for you, your family and your pets. There is plenty of information today on how to treat common garden pests organically. Much of this information can be found on the Internet with recipes for getting rid of different types of pest and these recipes can be made with products you may already have in your pantry and all helpful to the environment. When you garden, your compost bin becomes your best friend, sounds strange I know, but once you get into organic gardening, it will become so clear. For the organic gardener there is nothing like a good compost bin.

If you are a person who likes to keep up with what is happening around you, then get into organic herb gardening as using fresh herbs in your cooking is just so “in” as people are finding out how much of a difference they make to our cooking. So if you want to use herbs for cooking, medicinal or even the wonderful aromatic value they have, then get your organic herb gardening started. Not only is it a great hobby but once you get into herbs there is such a wide variety to learn about, it can be such a fascinating pastime.

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Nature’s herbal apothecary takes care of this nuisance with the most powerful cold buster ever, Oregano oil from wild grown Mediterranean Oregano. As an immune stimulant, Oregano is king of herbs as proven by Polish researchers who tested 70 varieties of plants and found Oregano to be the one with the most significant immune boosting powers. The efficacy of Oregano does not stop at boosting the immune system. It is possibly the most powerful antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal remedy available.

As most of us know, an antibiotic prescription given at the doctor’s office is useless against viral infection, which is what causes colds and the flu. The flu virus mutates constantly. Although labs cook up an antiviral cocktail containing several previous flu viruses, chances are slim that those same viruses will attack again and thus your body will not have resistance to new ones lurking around the corner. In addition to that, the vaccine may be contaminated with toxic mercury or aluminum, which is added as a preservative. The stress caused by the actual shooting of this polluted concoction directly into the bloodstream can greatly hamper your immune system. (For more information from a well respected physician on this subject, please visit www.mercola.com and search “flu shot.”)

Daily doses (three drops three times a day) will help keep your immune system strong enough to fight off most cold and flu viruses. Should one sneak in, conduct a full frontal attack by getting lots of sleep, drinking plenty of water and taking frequent dosages of oregano oil to stop it in its tracks. Hepatitis and Herpes are two other viral infections which have responded well to treatment with Oregano oil.

Oregano oil also works as an antibiotic, meaning it doesn’t just protect against viruses but also against bacteria. It has been shown in lab tests to be as effective as one of the strongest antibiotics (Vancomycin) in killing staph, E.coli and other bacteria. It does this without creating mutant strains of drug resistant bacteria and it has none of the debilitating side effects of pharmaceutical antibiotics. For AIDS and cancer patients, diabetics and those bedridden in hospital, oregano oil is a defensive weapon against potentially deadly bacteria. It is easy to take and effective against many known forms of pathogens.

North Americans suffer from a virtual epidemic of candida infection. Candida albicans is a form of fungus that occurs naturally in the gut. Antibiotics kill some of the good flora in the intestinal tract. This allows the candida to multiply unchecked. Candida feeds on sugar and refined grains. With the North American diet being high in both of these, candida quickly multiplies and ends up in the bloodstream. Nail fungus, thrush, skin disorders, vaginal yeast, allergies and chronic fatigue are only a few of the annoying symptoms caused by candida infection. Oregano oil is also effective to treat fungal infections.

Oregano oil is a powerful antiparasitic. In studies done in Mexico it was shown to be effective against giardia, a water borne parasite that our Ontario readers may be familiar with. Pinworms and other nasty creatures that often inhabit our intestines are subject to termination by oregano oil.

Travel in public carriers can be hazardous to your health even if no terrorists are aboard. The closed environment and recirculated air give a good guarantee that breathing the effluvia under such conditions will result in a vacation flu—just what you don’t want. So carry your oregano oil with you on the plane, train or bus. When you arrive in those warmer climes you can avoid food poisoning and Monteczuma’s revenge by taking a few drops before or after meals and by adding a drop or two to the water.

Teeth and gums benefit greatly from oral application of oregano oil since it destroys the bacteria that form plaque and cause gum disease. You may put a drop or two under the tongue and then swish it around in your mouth before swallowing or put a drop on your toothbrush when you clean your teeth.
Inflammation is a component of not only of many infections but also diseases, especially those involving joints and tendons. An article published in Phytotherapy Research describes how Oregano oil superseded anti-inflammatory drugs in reversing pain and inflammation and is nearly as powerful as morphine as a pain killer. It has the ability to penetrate the skin and reach as far as the sinovial fluid in joints. It may help to alleviate arthritis, carpal tunnel, sports injuries and even backache. Rub the oil on the skin to cover the affected area in addition to taking it internally.

Do not confuse the medicinal wild Mediterranean oregano for what is sometimes called oregano in the marketplace. What you find on the grocery store shelf is usually Spanish marjoram and does not share the true wild oregano’s therapeutic qualities. The best therapeutic oregano grows wild in the Mediterranean and has been known since Hippocrate’s time to be a powerful medicinal plant.

Olive oil is used to dilute pure oregano oil because, in its pure form, the oil is far too caustic. This is primarily due to the predominant phenol carvacrol, which accounts for a large percentage of the composition of oregano oil. Please beware of taking the pure essential oil as it could harm you. It must be properly diluted to be effective and safe. Tests show that most people respond best to one part oregano to four parts olive oil. Extra strength products are not more effective. They are difficult for the body to assimilate and are extremely unpalatable as well as being potentially hazardous.

Recently, the FDA has started to allow vendors of olive oil to make qualified statements concerning its health benefits. However, these benefits only occur when at least two tablespoons of oil are taken a day. Whether the edible oil is olive, flax seed, coconut, palm or hemp seed oil, the same intake level of two tablespoons daily is required to produce results. As an average dose of oregano oil is about nine drops (or one third of a milliliter) per a day, do not expect to derive any benefit from the edible oil that it is mixed with. Do ensure that the edible oil is fresh and certified organic to remove the possibility of rancidity or pesticide contamination. If you have a health challenge, you certainly don’t need further assault from chemical contamination.

Stave off winter and experience the multitude of uses for oregano to enjoy greatly improved health!

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Mint can be used as a herbal remedy for different ailments. You probably equate mint to the flavoring used in toothpaste or your chewing gum. However, mint can be used more extensively than just as a breath freshener or even as a flavoring for your cooking.

The aerial parts of the mint herb are the parts that are most used to make herbal remedies. Ailments generally include digestive disorders, colic and flatulence. Additionally, mint is often used to treat motion sickness and nausea. If you are suffering from flu or fever, mint can be used to help promote sweating to break the illness. Mint is also called bo he in Chinese herbal medicine and it used to help relieve the symptoms of liver stagnation or other digestive complaints. A mint herbal remedy is best used right after harvesting.

You can also use the mint plant’s aerial parts to prepare an inhalation, tincture, compress, or an infusion, depending upon your needs. A hot tea can be made as well and this is the easiest way to ingest mint.

An essential oil is one of the most common ways to derive benefits from mint. Peppermint oil is very popular and it contains large amounts of menthol. Peppermint oil is known for its analgesic, calming, and cooling affect on your body. This is a good remedy for treating and relieving headaches, migraines, treating fevers, and treating skin problems. This oil is considered antibacterial in nature as well, which is great for using on minor infections.

Inhaling peppermint oil can help relieve severe nasal congestion, but you do not need to do this often, because it may irritate your mucous membranes.

Young children should not use peppermint oil and nursing mothers should stay away from peppermint oil, because it can reduce your milk flow.

With thirty different varieties of mint, there can be a lot of herbal remedies that can be prepared out of them. Peppermint is the preferred mint herbal remedy in the western world. In China, it is the field mint. Garden mint, or spearmint, is another very popular mint herbal remedy, more commonly used for children.

In cooking, mint can be used as flavoring for a distinctive taste. It is also used widely in desserts such as in mint chocolates. The mint that I’m most familiar with in Asian cooking used in laksa and malay cooking is called laksa leaves. It is also a commonly used ingredient in Vietnamese salads and soups. However, what is interesting to note though that this mint ingredient does not actually belong to the mint family although its general appearance and odor are reminiscent.

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Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm or melissa, is a member of the mint family. The leaves, which emit a fragrant lemony odor when bruised, are used medicinally.

Uses and Benefits

Lemon balm has traditionally been employed as a mild anxiolytic sedative, or hypnotic herb, and is commonly taken in combination with other herbs. It is also used for mild gastrointestinal dyspepsia or spasms, especially associated with anxiety, and is considered a carminative (helps expel gas from the stomach). Topically, it is promoted for herpes simplex infections and cold sores. Historically, lemon balm steeped in wine was used for wound dressings, to treat venomous bites and stings, and for other topical uses.

Pharmacology

Important constituents include an essential oil (containing citronellal and other compounds), rosmarinic acid, avonoids, polyphenols, and tannins. The essential oil extract as spasmolytic or relaxant activity on isolated smooth muscles in animal models. Limited studies of hydroalcoholic extracts qiven intraperitoneally or orally to mice have shown sedative-hypnotic effects. In vitro, the essential oil has antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, while the aqueous extracts have antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus, HIV, influenza virus, and others. The rosmarinic acid constituent inhibits complement-dependent inflammatory reactions in vitro and in animal models.

Extracts of M. officinalis have been demonstrated to bind in vitro to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and Grave’s thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin, thus blocking TSH-receptor activation.

Clinical Trials

Oral preparations of lemon balm, alone, have not been studied in human clinical trials for any indication. Several controlled studies of lemon balm combined with other herbs (such as valerian) have suggested mild anxiolytic or hypnotic properties, but the specific role of lemon balm is not known.

Based on in vitro antiviral activity, a 1 % topical cream (Loma herpan) was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled European trials for cutaneous herpes simplexinfections. Both trials demonstrated statistically significant im- provements, but the clinical benefits were minimal. For example, one study (n == 66) found mean symptom scores were slightly de creased in the treatment group on day 2 (P == 0.42), but no difference was found in the total scores over 5 days of use, and global physician assessments were not statistically significant. 13 In the other study (n == 116), a statistical improvement on day 2 was demonstrated for swelling and redness, but not for other symptoms such as pain, erosion, scabbing, or vesication. However, the active treatment was favored in global assessment ratings by both patients and physicians.

Although herbalists have suggested that lemon balm may be beneficial for hyperthyroidism, there is no published clinical experience.

Adverse effects

There are no known or reported side effects.

Side Effects and Interactions

There are no recognized drug interactions, although caution is advisable if used in combination with other sedative-hypnotic agents.

Cautions

There is no data in pregnant or breast-feeding women. Although antithyroid effects have only been established in vitro, patients with thyroid disorders should probably have more frequent laboratory monitoring after initiating or discontinuing the herb.

Preparations & Doses

About 1.5-4.5 g of crude herb or liquid extract is generally administered 2-3 times daily as needed. Solid extracts are usually administered in doses of 300-900 mg. A topical cream containing a 1 % lyophilized aqueous 70:1 extract (Lomaherpan) was administered 2-4 times daily in the European clinical trials, starting early in an acute herpes outbreak. This cream is available in the U.S. as Herpalieve (by PhytoPharmica) and Herpilyn (Enzymatic Therapy, Inc.).

Summary Evaluation

Lemon balm has a long history of use as a mild anxiolytic and sedative, and for relief of dyspepsia, but clinical studies have not litl done to verify these properties. The herb may have some as a topical agent for symptoms of herpes simplex . Lemon balm appears well tolerated, with no reported adverse effects.

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What was true 150 years ago is even truer today with the typical North American diet high in processed and fast foods full of sugars and trans fatty acids that contaminate our bodies with anarchist-sounding rogues named “free radicals.” These are the leading villains in the aging process. A free radical is an atom with an unpaired electron. Like an overly aggressive suitor seeking a mate, a free radical waltzes through your body, grabbing electrons from cellular tissue and wreaking havoc like a philandering home-wrecker. Each free radical may exist for only a tiny fraction of a second, but the damage it leaves behind can be irreversible. Although some free radical activity is vital for immune function and hormone and enzyme production, too many will accelerate the aging process, suppress the immune system and be a major factor in age-related diseases such as cancer, heart disease and arthritis. The formation of lots of free radicals stimulates the development of even more free radicals, snowballing their production and damaging genetic material.

The presence of a dangerous number of free radicals can alter the way in which the cells code genetic material. Changes in protein structure can occur as a result of errors in protein synthesis. The body’s immune system may then see this altered protein as a foreign substance and try to destroy it. The formation of mutated proteins can eventually damage the immune system and lead to leukemia and other types of cancer. In addition to damaging genetic material, free radicals can destroy the protective cell membranes. The formation of free radicals can also lead to cellular fluid retention, which contributes even more to the aging process. Calcium levels may also be affected.

According to the American Cancer Society, antioxidants make up a broad category of phytochemicals. They are commonly found in vegetables such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower. These phytochemicals are thought to eliminate free radicals, which can damage a cell’s DNA and trigger some forms of cancer and other diseases. Antioxidants gobble up free radicals like voracious Pac-men. They neutralize them by binding to their free electrons.

The Chinese Cancer Prevention Study, published in 1993, investigated the effect of a combination of beta-carotene, vitamin E, and selenium on cancer in healthy Chinese men and women at high risk for gastric cancer. The study showed a combination of these antioxidants significantly reduced incidence of both gastric cancer and cancer overall.

Also, according to the American Dietetic Association, free radicals in your body are like rust on your car. The same oxidation damages cells and contributes to aging. Antioxidants reduce oxidation (by neutralizing the free radicals), help increase immune function and lessen the risk of infection and cancer.

Although fruits and vegetables have been traditionally regarded as the best dietary source of antioxidants, a recent report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry revealed that common kitchen herbs have higher antioxidant activity than fruits, vegetables and some spices, including garlic. In what may be good news for pizza lovers and Italian food connoisseurs everywhere, the herbs with the highest antioxidant activity belonged to the oregano family. In general, oregano had three to 20 times higher antioxidant activity than the other herbs studied. In comparison to the antioxidant activities of a few select fruits and vegetables, the potency of oregano ranks supreme: Oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes, 12 times more than oranges and four times more than blueberries. For example, one tablespoon of fresh oregano contains the same antioxidant activity as one medium-sized apple, according to the report. Other kitchen herbs cited in the report with powerful antioxidant qualities include oregano’s hardy cousin sweet marjoram, rose geranium, bay, dill, thyme, rosemary, and sage. I would also add one of my own favorites, calendula or pot marigold, one of the best sources of the powerful antioxidant lutein. Lutein is particularly effective in combating age related macular degeneration, the leading cause of irreversible blindness in North America. Those beautiful, yellow calendula flowers add both color and piquancy to salads, sandwiches and stews. All these herbs are undemanding in your garden – with the exception of rose geranium, a very tender perennial, which should be wintered indoors in a south-facing window – and easy to find in your local health food store, grocery store or garden center. So better health may be just a dash and a sprinkle away. People should use more herbs for flavoring instead of salt and artificial chemicals, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture.With a few exceptions fresh herbs are better than dried (bay leaves are better partly dried), not only for taste, but also for antioxidant activity. Also, to retain their nutritional and antioxidant qualities and to avoid the herbs becoming bitter due to overcooking, it is recommended that the herbs be added towards the end of the cooking process. Following are three simple, but very nutritious recipes using some of the kitchen herbs cited in the USDA study.

Polenta with Oregano

• 3 cups of spring or bottled water
• 1 cup of milk (or substitute such as soy or nut milk)
• 1 Tbsp. of butter
• 1 tsp. of sea salt
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of polenta
• ½ red pepper, very finely diced
• ½ orange pepper, very finely diced
• ¼ cup of finely chopped broccoli, lightly steamed
• ½ cup of freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
• 1½ Tbsp. of fresh oregano, finely chopped.

1. Bring the milk, water, butter, salt, cayenne & garlic to a boil in a pot and slowly add the polenta in a slow stream, stirring continually. Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue to stir until the moisture is absorbed and the mixture has a creamy consistency, about eight to 10 minutes.
2. Add the vegetables and cheese and continue to cook and stir for another couple of minutes. Then thoroughly blend the oregano into the mix. When it is evenly distributed, pour the polenta into a glass pie plate and allow to cool. It may be served cool or re-heated. Cut into wedges prior to serving.

Cream of Carrot Soup with Rosemary

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 12 carrots, chopped
• 1 potato, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups of chicken, vegetable or herb bouillon
• 1 tsp. fresh ginger root, minced
• 2 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
• ½ cup of heavy cream
• 2 Tbsp. of olive oil
• Pinch of cayenne
• Sea salt to taste
• A few extra rosemary sprigs for garnish

1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onion in the olive oil until translucent, but not brown. Add the carrots, potato and stock and cook until the carrots and potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Then add the ginger and rosemary, allow to cool and blend in a food processor until smooth. Reheat, but don’t allow to boil while stirring in the heavy cream and adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. When serving, garnish with the extra rosemary springs.

Herbed Butter with Rose Geranium Leaves

• ½ lb. of slightly softened butter
• 1 tsp. each of fresh, chopped chives, parsley and thyme, or herbs of your choice
• ½ tsp. of fresh, chopped rose scented geranium leaves.

1. Mix the herbs into the butter and chill a little before serving.

All recipes excerpted with permission from HerbWise: growing cooking wellbeing by Bruce Burnett, published by HerbWise Inc., Ladysmith, BC

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They are wonderful for sprucing up a kitchen window ledge, or placing on a shelf in front of the window too. Many people like to have them right outside the kitchen door instead though, and there are a variety of ways these outdoor gardens can be designed as well.

One popular way to create an outdoor kitchen herb garden is by using an old wagon wheel. By laying the wagon wheel on its side, you can then use the pie shaped wedges between the wheel spokes, to plant different types of herbs for use in your kitchen. This is not only a very quick and simple way to create a garden bed, but it’s very helpful for keeping all of your edible and cooking herbs away from other plants in your garden too.

Now, the types of kitchen herbs you choose to plant can vary widely, and usually the decisions are based on what you plan to do with them. If for instance, you really like cooking Italian foods, you might choose to plant herbs which are commonly found in spaghetti and marinara sauces. If you like to cook spicy Mexican food though, then you might choose to plant herbs which fit more with those types of food dishes instead. Here are a few ideas that may get you started…

Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, and Chives are all popular herbs to plant for use in Italian style cooking and sauces. All of these herbs grow quite quickly, and they’re very aromatic and attractive as well. You might also want to try garlic chives too, because these can really add punch and flavor to soups, stews, and even just for creating flavored butters too.

Cilantro is on the spicy side, so this herb can be grown for various types of food cooking. Fennel and dill are two other popular kitchen herbs which have a wide variety of uses too.

Thyme is another wonderful herb to grow in your kitchen herb garden, and English lavender is another excellent herb to grow for your kitchen. Both of these herbs are also excellent to plant between walkway flagstones too actually, because they give off wonderful smells as they’re brushed up against when someone walks along the path.

When growing herbs to use in your kitchen, keep in mind that they’re best used often. If you pluck leaves off the plant regularly, the taste is much better. Trying to use herbs after the plant has started flowering might result in a bitter or grassy taste.

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