Ingredient Glossary

Also referred to as gamboge, its mucilage content produces a strong laxative effect and acts as a strong irritant to the mucous membranes of the intestine. Some studies have indicated the hydroxycitrate found in garcinia may suppress appetite and inhibit the conversion of carbohydrates into fat, thus aiding in weight loss. Garcinia has also been shown to exhibit some anti-microbial properties.

Can lead to abdominal pain and vomiting in some individuals.

Based on its immune enhancing, anti-tumor, anti-mutagenic /anti-carcinogenic, and anti-fungal qualities, garlic contains many sulfur based compounds which gives it excellent healing properties. It has been found to be beneficial for a wide variety of conditions and disorders: asthma, candida, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular and coronary heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, meningitis, learning, cognitive functions, physiological aging and age related memory deficits, HIV/AIDS, and cancer.   

Alliin, the main sulfur-containing compound in garlic, has anti-microbial, anti-oxidative, lipid reducing, and fibrinolytic properties. It has been found to be effective against a wide variety of gram-positive, gram-negative and fungal organisms. Garlic’s anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties are well documented, as is its ability to stabilize blood sugar, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve circulation.  Known to strengthen the immune system by enhancing natural killer cells, and through its ability to increase the antioxidant glutathione.  Alliin has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of arteriosclerosis, stroke, and cardiovascular issues by inhibiting platelets from forming clots and sticking to blood vessel walls. 

Adverse effects such as headaches, myalgia, fatigue, and vertigo have been reported when taking large therapeutic dosages. Frequent usage may result in allergic reactions for susceptible individuals. Abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a feeling of fullness can also occur.  When taking garlic, there is a risk of post-operative bleeding. Use of garlic with anticoagulants, such as coumadin, or anti-platelets, such as aspirin or dipyridamole, could increase the risk of bleeding.  Likewise, use of garlic with NSAIDs, such as indomethacin, could increase bleeding time due to the decrease in platelet aggregation and inhibition of fibrinogen.

Do not take large amounts of garlic during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions and secretions. Finally, though some reports suggest that Garlic is not recommended for nursing mothers, as it may cause gas or colic in infants, others report infants actually prefer garlic flavored mother’s milk, and garlic can be useful to stimulate breastfeeding.

Based on its immune enhancing, anti-tumor, anti-mutagenic /anti-carcinogenic, and anti-fungal qualities, garlic contains many sulfur based compounds which gives it excellent healing properties. It has been found to be beneficial for a wide variety of conditions and disorders: asthma, candida, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular and coronary heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, meningitis, learning, cognitive functions, physiological aging and age related memory deficits, HIV/AIDS, and cancer.  
 

Alliin, the main sulfur-containing compound in garlic, has anti-microbial, anti-oxidative, lipid reducing, and fibrinolytic properties. It has been found to be effective against a wide variety of gram-positive, gram-negative and fungal organisms. Garlic’s anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties are well documented, as is its ability to stabilize blood sugar, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve circulation.  Known to strengthen the immune system by enhancing natural killer cells, and through its ability to increase the antioxidant glutathione.  Alliin has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of arteriosclerosis, stroke, and cardiovascular issues by inhibiting platelets from forming clots and sticking to blood vessel walls. 

Adverse effects such as headaches, myalgia, fatigue, and vertigo have been reported when taking large therapeutic dosages. Frequent usage may result in allergic reactions for susceptible individuals. Abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a feeling of fullness can also occur.  When taking garlic, there is a risk of post-operative bleeding. Use of garlic with anticoagulants, such as coumadin, or anti-platelets, such as aspirin or dipyridamole, could increase the risk of bleeding.  Likewise, use of garlic with NSAIDs, such as indomethacin, could increase bleeding time due to the decrease in platelet aggregation and inhibition of fibrinogen.

Do not take large amounts of garlic during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions and secretions. Finally, though some reports suggest that Garlic is not recommended for nursing mothers, as it may cause gas or colic in infants, others report infants actually prefer garlic flavored mother’s milk, and garlic can be useful to stimulate breastfeeding.

Also called bitter root, gentian is considered a tonic to increase strength and vigor.  The bitter active ingredients in gentian stimulate the taste receptors, increasing saliva and digestive juices. It specifically stimulates the gallbladder to release bile into the small intestine, and is used effectively as a digestive aid.  Gentian kills plasmodia, the organism that causes malaria. It is also used in the treatment of pancreatitis and other pancreatic infections, fungal infections, to stimulate circulation, and as a de-wormer.

Because it stimulates digestive secretions it is not recommended for individuals that suffer from stomach or duodenal ulcers.

As a mild sedative, it is used widely to relieve stress and anxiety, and as a sleep aid. It can be used to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. It can also be used as a diuretic and in the treatment of colitis and diverticulosis. Chamomile is especially useful in protecting the digestive tract from damage caused by acetylsalicylic acid or aspirin consumption.

Chamomile has been used effectively for: general pain, headaches, colds, fevers, coughs, bronchitis, inflammation of the skin and mucus membranes, burns, wounds, and infections. It has an anti-microbial effect on some pathogens such as staphylococcus and candida, and its anti-bacterial nature (plus its tendency to be drying) makes it useful in the treatment of seeping wounds. Chamomile has been found to inhibit the development of skin papillomas, and to also inhibit papillomas from converting to carcinomas. Chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting histamine release, and as an antioxidant by inhibiting lipid peroxidation.  Its antioxidant, immune stimulating and chemoprevention characteristics make chamomile useful in the prevention of both inflammation and cancer. 

Chamomile should not be used by individuals allergic to ragweed or other members of the composite family (e.g. arnica, yarrow, feverfew, tansy, and artemesia). Use for long periods of time may create sensitivity to ragweed and other pollens. One case study reports severe anaphylactic reactions in patients with hay fever and bronchial asthma caused by a variety of pollens.

Ginger cleanses the colon, reduces spasms and cramping, and increases circulation and peristalsis of the intestines. It promotes secretion of saliva, bile, and gastric juices. It can stimulate appetite and is useful in the treatment of: indigestion, bowel disorders, morning sickness, colic, gas, nausea and vomiting. Ginger is useful in low thyroid conditions because it increases the absorption of iodine in the intestinal tract.  Ginger inhibits platelet aggregation and is an anti-thrombotic.  It acts as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting leukotriene and prostaglandin synthesis.  Research has found it to be more effective than several other drugs used for sea and motion sickness, with its effects lasting up to six hours. It can be used as a treatment for migraine headaches and hot flashes. As a strong anti-oxidant and immune stimulant, ginger can be used to treat fevers and its anti-microbial and astringent properties make it beneficial in the treatment of wounds and sores.

Since ginger is an anti- thrombotic, large doses of ginger should not be used by those with bleeding disorders, those on anticoagulants, or when there is a risk of hemorrhaging.
It is not recommended for individuals with gallstones because it stimulates the secretion of bile.  Though most research indicates ginger is effective for morning sickness, moderation is recommended. Excessive doses should be avoided. Large doses can cause cardiac arrhythmias and depression of the central nervous system.

Ginkgo biloba’s active compounds include flavonoids and terpenes.  The flavonoids act as antioxidants to control free radicals such as lipid peroxidase. Lipid peroxidation damages tissue, and is associated with cerebral aging and dementia in humans. Ginkgo protects and can improve brain function by stabilizing cell membranes, increasing oxygen and blood flow to the brain, and by reducing cerebral edema.  Ginkgo has been found to be effective in the treatment of a variety of conditions associated with cerebral trauma, as well as dementia and aging, including: headaches, memory loss, anxiety, depression, tinnitis (ringing in the ears), vertigo, visual and hearing loss. It improves blood flow, relaxes smooth muscles, and strengthens veins throughout the body. 

Ginko has been show to be beneficial for the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. Ginkgo has been used to treat: asthma, eczema, edema, intestinal disorders, hair growth, allergy, arthritis, claudication, leg cramps, hepatitis, PMS, spinal cord injuries, and erectile dysfunction. Ginkgo’s powerful antioxidant and lipid peroxidase inhibiting factors have been reported to clear super oxides, and other chromosomal damaging clastogenic factors, from the blood of Chernobyl workers exposed to high levels of radiation.  Chronic inflammatory and immuno-suppression disorders can also produce similar oxidative, clastogenic factors. Individuals with these disorders may benefit from ginkgo extract supplementation.

Individuals with a risk of intra-cranial hemorrhage, systematic arterial hypertension, or diabetes amyloid senile plaques should avoid the use of Ginkgo due to the possibility of subarachnoid hemorrhaging associated with the herb. Ginkgo is not recommended for anyone who is currently taking anti-thrombolytic, anti-coagulants, anti-platelets agents, or regularly consuming aspirin. Mild gastrointestinal complaints may occur as a side effect. Ginkgo can adversely affect female gametocytes and may affect fertility.

Artichoke has a bitter effect, stimulating appetite and increasing the flow of saliva and digestive juices. It cleanses the liver, and lowers lipid levels, by stimulating the production of bile and its release from the gallbladder into the small intestine. It has been used for digestive problems, the treatment of liver and gallbladder disorders, and as a preventive for gallstones. Rutin, a flavonoid and one of the major active components of artichoke, has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. Closely associated with vitamin C, rutin protects vitamin C from oxidation. Rutin strengthens capillaries walls, eases bruising, decreases hemorrhaging, protects against some toxins, and significantly diminishes venous edema - an early symptom of chronic venous leg disease. 

Because of the stimulating effect of artichoke on the bile ducts, it should not be administered if there is a bile duct blockage.

Goldenrod’s antioxidant, diuretic, and astringent properties make it an excellent treatment for urinary tract disorders. Goldenrod helps to flush out kidney and bladder stones, and is used to treat both cystitis and nephritis. The saponins found in goldenrod inhibit candida overgrowth.

 Most of the documentation of goldenseal’s effectiveness has been conducted on berberine sulfate, one of the active constituents of goldenseal root.  Berberine sulfate acts as an antibiotic and anti-microbial, and has been shown to inhibit the growth of several parasites: Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Trichomonas vaginalis. It also inhibits or denatures cholera, Vibrio cholerae and Escherichia coli toxins.

It is also been found to be effective against: Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella paratyphi, various Klebsiella species, Streptococcus pyrogenes, E. coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori, and Chlamydia trachomatis. Goldenseal improves digestion and is used to treat ulcers and various disorders associated with the colon, liver, pancreas, and spleen. It cleanses mucous membranes, and is beneficial for both the lymphatic and respiratory systems. It has anti-inflammatory properties, increases the effectiveness of insulin, reduces blood pressure, stimulates the central nervous system, decreases uterine bleeding, and regulates menses. Goldenseal root extract is often recommended to treat recurrent middle ear, respiratory, urinary tract, bladder, prostate, and vaginal infections. It stimulates the immune system, and if used at the first sign of symptoms, it can stop a cold, flu, or sore throat from developing.   Best taken in an alcohol free form.

Goldenseal should not be taken during pregnancy and by those individuals with gluscose-6- phosphate-dehydrogenase deficiency. Not recommended to be used for prolonged periods of time, alternating goldenseal with echinacea and other herbs which are beneficial for a particular disorder is recommended.  It is also suggested that individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or glaucoma should only use goldenseal under the supervision of a health practitioner.

Gotu Kola improves circulation and stimulates the central nervous system. It helps to prevent mental fatigue, improve memory, concentration and depression.  Gotu kola is useful for cardiovascular, circulatory, and connective tissue disorders. It strengthens the vascular system, improves fatigue, reduces edema, swelling, cramps, and pain when standing. It treats varicose veins, restless leg syndrome and is good for heart and liver functions. The primary active ingredient, asiaticoside, facilitates wound healing by increasing collagen synthesis and inducing antioxidants at the wound site. Gotu Kola has been used to: neutralize blood acids, lower body temperature, treat kidney stones, improve appetite, increase sex drive and to prevent and repair gastric ulcers. It has powerful anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and anti-tumor properties. In animal studies it has been shown to inhibit acute radiation sickness and the development of both solid and fluid based tumors.

Gotu Kola may cause dermatitis if applied topically.

Grape Seed extract contains one of the most beneficial groups of plant flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, which exert many healing effects on the body.  The primary use of grape seed extract is in the treatment of vascular, capillary, and blood vessel disorders. These include: varicose veins, capillary fragility, diabetic retinopathy, night vision, macular degeneration, and ocular stress. It can improve cardiac performance by stabilizing capillary walls and inhibiting edema.

Grape seed extract is also a potent antioxidant.  In one study grape seed extract was found to be 20-50 times more powerful than either vitamin C or vitamin E in controlling oxygen free radicals and inhibiting peroxidation. Grape seed’s antioxidant properties have been shown to slow the breakdown of collagen, important in maintaining the structural integrity of skin.  It reduces the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) by free radicals, prevents damage to the lining of arteries, helps to lower cholesterol levels and reduces cholesterol deposits in arteries. It also inhibits platelet aggregation and vaso-constriction - beneficial in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic heart disease and stroke. It has also demonstrated anti-tumor properties due to its powerful antioxidant capabilities. Grape seed extract minimizes the effects of hormones interfering with hair growth, reducing hair loss.  Proanthocyanidins protects the liver and has been shown to significantly improve apoptotic and necrotic liver cell damage. It acts as an anti-inflammatory by blocking the release of prostaglandins. Grape seed extract has been used as a preventive for post-operative pain and edema, and in the treatment of various inflammatory and connective tissue disorders including rheumatoid arthritis. 

No health hazards or side effects are known with properly administered therapeutic dosages. A reversible inhibition of intestinal enzymes activity of alkaline phosphatase, sucrase, and dipeptidase has been observed in animal studies.

Made from raw, Green Papayas at the time when the Papain content is at its highest.  Papain is a proteolytic enzyme, and in addition to the digestion of protein (useful in digestive complaints, specifically pancreatic conditions), has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties when taken on an empty stomach.

Many studies have been conducted on the efficacy of Green Tea for a variety of health related conditions.  Well known for its anti-oxidant properties, Green Teas is also useful as a stimulant due to the amount of caffeine present.  It is also reported to have cancer prevention effects, and is used for it antidiarrheal properties, and as a prebiotic.

Taken from the Myrrh tree, Gugulipids are highly regarded for their ability to lower cholesterol and trigliceride levels.  They have also been show to decrease platelet aggregration, increase fibrinolytic activity and stimulate thyroid function.

There is scientific evidence supporting the use of Gymnema to lower blood sugar levels, and may be useful in the management of types 1 and 2 diabetes.