Alfalfa Leaf belongs to the Fabaceae pea family and is a flowering plant grown as a forage crop. This is a perennial of the cool season that exists from three to twelve years. The survival of Alfalfa depends on the climate and variety. This is grown widely as forage for cattle and is also harvested as hay. These can also be made into grazed, silage or can be fed. It is the crop that is less used as pasture and is widely used as hay crops enjoying highest feeding value. If the crop is well adapted, it yields well. Alfalfa is the important legume employed in agriculture and the United States is the biggest producer. The other areas are Argentina, South Africa, Australia and Middle East. In Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore district this is grown well. The basic use of Alfalfa is dairy cattle feed and is given as it is high in proteins and has digestible fiber. This is also given to horses, beef cattle, goats and sheep. The alfalfa sprouts are eaten by humans in sandwiches and salads. It is available commercially in various forms such as powders, tablets and tea.

Aloe represents four hundred species of succulent plant and the common and popular is the aloe or Aloe Vera. This is a genus and is commonly found in South Africa. This is as well found in the adjacent areas such as the Arabian Peninsula, islands of Africa and Madagascar. This belongs to the Aloceae and the lily family. Members of allied genera such as Haworthia, Gasteria and Kniphofia exhibit identical growth and are known as aloes. The aloe species have thick, large and fleshy leaves. These leaves have a sharp apex in association with a spiny margin. Aloe is cultivated in gardens as well as in pots. It is considered to be ornamental plants and also has medicinal effects. Aloe Vera is used to treat wounds by the Romans and reeks. The processed aloe is used as a laxative as it contains aloin, while the aloe vera juice that is processed does not have aloin and is hence useful for digestive healing.

Apple Cider Vinegar is made out of pure apple juice through firstly an alcoholic fermentation process, then secondly through acetobacter agents, turning the alcohol into acetic acid, making it a vinegar. Traditionally, Apple Cider Vinegar has been used to treat gout, arthritis, various skin conditions, allergies, even high cholesterol. When diluted, it helps lower high fever, particularly in infants. Apple Cider Vinegar is currently very popular in the body building and weight control circles as a weight loss agent. While no scientific studies to that matter have been conducted, the overall content of Apple Cider Vinegar, rich with health promoting compounds such as vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus, but also in some high quality products pectin and malic acid, make it a valuable nutritional supplement.

Apple Pectin is a dietary fiber and is of immense use in maintaining proper digestive health. Apple pectin rich fruits include apple, plum, currant and peach. The unripe fruits contain protopectin and this gets converted into pectin when they get ripe. The apple pectin is a colloidal water solution and on cooling becomes a gel. With appropriate sugar the fruits are cooked and when the pectin present is sufficient it is used in jellies and jams. However, overripe fruits become pectic acid and cannot form jelly in combination with sugar solutions. Apple pectin is a intestinal regulator and is widely used in medicinal preparations. Apples are always rich in pectin, the soluble fiber and are also one of the best in lowering cholesterol levels. This is also accepted as an anti-diarrhea agent. People eating fatty foods can wash down with apple juices. Apples have the rich pectin. Apple pectin cleanses the intestinal tract. It increases acidity in large intestines and is recommended for people suffering with colitis and ulcer. Pectin prevents gallstones as well and lessens diabetes.

Barley Rice Fiber origin is to the very ancient times and this is also one of the oldest plants in the universe. Scientists believe its origin to be in Tibet. Barley was used in bread as flour up to the 15th century. Barley is one of the major food sources in places that adapt wheat and other cereals in fewer quantities. In fact, North Africa and Middle East considers this as the major cereal grain. Barley comprises of beta-glucans that is highly beneficial for human diet. Barley is opulent with essential antioxidants and nutrients and this helps in delaying the aging effects, prevents arteriosclerosis as well as decreases the muscle soreness and inflammation. It also improves mental clarity and supports healthy skin, nails and hair. Barley is not meant only for soup as it is a wonderful ingredient as breakfast fare or side dish. The versatility of this fiber is that it is a nutritious food high in fiber content and low in fats. Barley consumed as a diet reduces the cholesterol and the risk of stroke.

Buchu Leaves , from the Buchu herb, commonly found in the South West region of Cape Colony in Africa. The buchu leaf has oil glands that are useful as an insect repellent and at times as an antiseptic. The oil, when removed from the leaf and mixed in a vinegar base, can be used to soothe bruises and sprains. Severe infections of the urinary tract, gout, digestive problems and rheumatism are among the many ailments that can be cured with the help of the buchu leaf. Buchu leaf extracts should not be taken on an empty stomach, as they may cause gastric problems due to intolerance. There is no conclusive evidence that it helps in weight loss, and should not be taken at any time during pregnancy.

Burdock Root is found in Asia and Europe. Burdock root has medicinal qualities and is in use for herbal remedies. This root is tasty as it is sweet and has gummy consistency. Budrock is used as remedy for arthritis, measles, throat pain, colds and diuretic. Budrock root is employed in oncology and is useful in treating various health problems. Budrock root is used for purifying blood and is useful in removing toxins. It is used orally and also topically for skin disorders. Budrock root soothes aching joints as well. Chinese healers combine with other plants to cure cold, measles, tonsillitis and throat pain. Burdock root is well-known in Japan and is a good source of nutrients and vitamins. Budrock root is supposed to be tested systematically. Budrock root is effective in bloodstream cleansing, treating gout, relieving pain from arthritis, ulcers, eczema, rheumatism and psoriasis. It has properties in curing cancer and is found effective in treating impotence and barrenness.

Caffeine is a powerful and very common alkaloid supplement used in 7 Day Detox primarily to increase the body’s ability to lose weight quickly, boost energy and stimulate the brain into more activity with better clarity. It also fuels the body’s metabolism for increased fat burning qualities. This allows users to have more stamina for exercise and more focus for weight loss initiatives. Caffeine anhydrous is found naturally in many different beans and plants and works successfully as a stimulating supplement for those needing increased energy, focus, and alertness. When taken as a supplement for health or weight loss reasons, caffeine anhydrous should not be combined with other traditional forms of caffeine, such as soft drinks, energy drinks, coffee, or tea, because the supplement form is concentrated and powerful in itself.

Cayenne- Most of us are aware of the wonders of the hot cayenne, which belongs to the family of capsicum. This herb is mainly used for culinary and health purpose. As compared to black pepper and chilies, it contains less irritating properties. Cayenne when taken naturally works as a natural stimulant and is beneficial for pancreas, kidney and spleen. Cayenne can be taken in herbal tea form, as a natural energy booster or as a capsule to cure yellow fever. Since cayenne contains antiseptic properties it is an effective remedy for sore throats and is used as a gargle. It aids digestion and stimulates saliva and stomach secretion. It also prevents heart attack, reduces cholesterol, allows proper absorption of vitamins, improves blood circulation and effectively clears the sinuses. In the past it was used as a cure for typhoid fever, diphtheria, pleurisy and pneumonia.

Chromium Polynicotinate is a product associated with medical food. It is used as a nutritional support in diabetes related conditions. Chromium polynicotinate is said to be nothing but an assimilated form of chromium. It is said to be the most effective type of chromium. It is absorbed by the body in its biologically active form. It is also crucial to the process of synthesis of fats, protein and cholesterol. Chromium polynicotinate if taken in monitored dosage can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This proves beneficial for people suffering from diabetes as well as hypoglycemia. Its main property is to produce insulin. Therefore, it helps in the metabolism of glucose. This type of chromium polynicotinate helps in the production of anabolic effects which have no side effects. On the other hand, they help in keeping the fat cells away from the muscle cells.

Cranberry Extract helps to keep the urinary tract free from any infectious ailments.

Dandelion Root is traditionally used for treating breast problems, aching joints, fever, skin disorders, swelling, and appendicitis. It is rich in vitamins such as A, C, D, and B-complex. It also contains various minerals such as magnesium, zinc potassium, manganese, boron, iron, and calcium. Its active ingredients are eudesmanolide and germacranolide. It also has tannin, carotene, inulin, and lactupicrine. Dandelion Root can be used as an appetite stimulant. It also has cleansing and detoxifying properties, acting as a diuretic that aids liver and gallbladder functions. It helps maintain gastrointestinal health and aids in digestion. It also improves the immune system and has antiviral properties.

Fennel Seed is a carminative and stomachic, helps ease stomach discomfort and disperses gas.

Flax seed is the seed of the Flax plant. The plant, also known as linseed, is of genus Linum and family Linaceae. Flax seeds are popular for their numerous health benefits, they contain lignans and Omega-3 fatty acids. Lignans are shown to be beneficial for heart disease and to posses’ anti-cancer properties. Flax seeds are particularly believed to benefit people with breast and prostate cancer. Some research also shows that flaxseeds can lower cholesterol levels and stabilize blood-sugar levels. They are also used as a laxative due to their high dietary fiber content; however, excessive consumption may lead to intestinal blockage.

Garlic- In modern times, people are sticking to the adage - a clove of garlic a day keeps cancer away!! Due to its therapeutic properties, garlic has garnered the reputation of being a 'wonder' drug that fights virtually all possible illness ranging from common cold and flue to cancer and plague. Garlic not just keeps cancer at bay but also helps you manage high cholesterol levels. While most people prefer to use organically grown garlic for its high sulphur content, many choose to take garlic supplements in the form of pills and capsules. It is believed that raw garlic is quite effective for treating acne symptoms as well. Moderation is the key here, as consuming garlic in large quantities can cause irritation of the digestive tract and may even damage it.

Ginger Root- Ginger is a spice which originated in Asia, where it is grown primarily in India and the Southeast of Asia. Currently it is used all over the world for culinary purposes. Several other uses, besides that of a spice, have been encountered, like in Ginger Ale, ginger tea, but also ginger beer. Gingerbread is perhaps the most popular example of ginger use, but historically it has been labeled as a stimulant and a carminative. Indonesia traditionally uses herbal preparations with ginger, which is supposed to reduce fatigue and help control all kind of digestive problems. Ginger is also known to help with morning sickness and is an ingredient in motion sickness remedies. Nausea in many forms, including chemotherapy, is treated with ginger as well.

Glucomannan, also called propolene, not to be confused with propylene, is a polysaccharide and mainly a straight chain polymer. It is widely used as a food additive, E number E425, with thickening and emulsifying characteristics. Glucomannan comprises almost half of the corm of the amorphophallus konjac plant, the so called “devil’s tongue” plant, native to warmer subtropical to tropical eastern Asia. Some studies have shown that this dietary fiber may hold multiple health benefits. It has been and currently is in clinical trials for treatment of constipation, obesity, cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. For weight control purposes, it has been observed that glucomannan promotes satiety when ingested, significantly reducing food cravings. It was also observed that when used with chitosan, glucomannan seemed to decrease serum cholesterol.

Goldenseal Herb is also known as Hydrastis Canadensis. The herb is becoming popular for its numerous health benefits. It was traditionally used by Native Americans as a cure of digestive problems, skin disorders, liver conditions, and diarrhea and eye irritations. Goldenseal herbal tincture is used for mouth sores and sore throats. It is also available in nutritional supplements because research shows that it has strong activity against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. It also believed to mask positive drug screen by some athletes but research reject these claims. It is also useful in treatment of bladder infections and fungal infections of the skin.

Grapefruit Extract, also known as citrus seed extract is a liquid that is derived from the seeds, pulp as well as the white membranes of grapefruit. Some scientists claim that grapefruit extract possesses antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties while others recommend it for the treatment of earache, throat infections etc. There are two ways in which grapefruit extract is prepared. One is the natural, self-made grapefruit extract which is made by grinding the seed and pulp and then mixing them with glycerine. The second method is the commercial way in which the seed, pulp, glycerine and synthetic preservatives are all blended together. Grapefruit extract is believed to have a lot of scope in the health food industry. However one has to be careful as grapefruit can have several interactions with certain drugs like warfarin.

Hawthorne Berry helps the body with its digestion process particularly that of meat and fatty acids. It is also reported to stimulate some of the body’s enzymes.

Irish Moss- The North Atlantic seaweed Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus) has made its way in health care, cosmetics, and food industry due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Also called as Pearl Moss, this edible seaweed was used extensively by the Irish in the nineteenth century during famine. It acts as a skin softener nourishing and turning dry, rough, patchy skin into smooth, silky, skin thus protecting it from environmental elements. The efficiency of Irish Moss in treating duodenal and peptic cancers, cancer and radiation poisoning, obesity and cholesterol build up is being studied. Irish Moss causes an anticoagulant effect on the blood and is believed to clear up bladder complaints. The sea weed is also a good source of calcium, sodium, iodine, and magnesium that are vital for normal thyroid function.

Juniper Berry is found in the Northern Hemisphere. Juniper Berries enhance sausages, meat, stews, soups and stuffing. Juniper Berries contain a bitter sweet aroma. This is widely used in French and Scandinavian kitchens. Juniper berries are crushed prior to use and can be used in beef and pork. Juniper berries is found in North America, North Africa and northern Asia. However, the commercial producers are southern Europe and Hungary, particularly Italy. Juniper Berries were used as medicinal fruit by Arab physicians. This was also recommended against plague and snake bite during the renaissance period. It also has an air cleansing fragrance and is hence used to freshening stale air. In fact, the Swiss used to sanitize stale air by burning the berries with heating fuel. Juniper berries is also added with Gin, the alcoholic drink to get a unique aroma. Juniper berries are soft to touch and should be stored in cool places in airtight container. Juniper berries blends with spices and herbs especially sage, thyme, bay leaves, oregano, garlic and onions.

Lemon Peel cures upset stomach and colic. Lemon Peel is also one of the best sources of potassium, calcium and vitamin A. Lemon peel also reduces few skin melanoma types. Lemon Peel is acquired from the common lemon fruit. Lemon is more than two thousand years old and is the popular citrus fruit in the universe. It is grown in warm climates and it is observed that people normally eat the lemon fruit only, the lemon peel is used medicinally. The lemon peel also has ascorbic acid, phosphorous and volatile oil. Lemon Peel in Africa is used for curing colic and Indians used it to cure stomach upset. Lemon Peel is also used for its aromatic fragrance and as a flavor enhancer. The constituents of lemon peel decrease the blood vessels permeability and are also a remedy for phlebitis. Lemon Peel is also effective in preventing from abnormal skin growth. It also helps in acne drying up and the blemishes also vanish as this natural fruit contains acids that kill the bacteria and eventually eliminate the dead skin.

Mangosteen is a fruit that is found in the tropical countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Initially, the fruit was used to treat gonorrhea, bladder infections and diarrhea. An ointment made from the rind was used to cure skin rashes. Today, however, study suggests that the pericarp or the outer rind is rich in xanthones, which are useful in fighting cancer cells. The mangosteen fruit contatins certain properties that boost up the lymphatic system, causing an overall improvement of health. Its high content of vitamin C and vitamin E will allow the body to function normally because of their assistance in boosting the immune system. A detailed research is being carried out into the various beliefs that mangosteen fruit may be able to cure cancer.

Mint Leaf is a perennial herb. They have branched stems and the leaves of mint appear in opposite pairs with a serrated margin. The mint leaf color ranges from light to dark green and also gray-green to blue and purple. The mint leaf dried or fresh is a best culinary ingredient. Fresh mint is preferred always as storing it is simple. The fresh leaves have a pleasant aroma that is warm and its flavor is liked as it gives a cool effect. Mint leaves are extensively used in tea, jellies, ice creams, beverages, syrups and candies. Mint sauce is popular in British cuisine with lamb and the Middle Eastern cuisine also use mint for lamb dishes. Mint is an essential ingredient for preparing Touareg tea, a preferred tea of Arab and northern African countries. There are mint flavored alcoholic drinks as well. Menthol is used as breath freshener, toothpastes, desserts, chewing gum, mouth rinses and candies. The peppermint aroma is due to the presence of menthol. It is also a medicinal herb to cure chest pains and stomach ache. It breaks the fats and is recommended for obesity treatment.

Noni Fruit is a natural fruit of Hawaii that has been noted as possibility being able to treat cancer within individuals.

Oat Bran is a water-soluble fiber, water-soluble fiber binds with bile and water which increases bulk. Soluble fibers have been shown to help balance blood-lipid levels because they can collect with bile and promote excretion.

Pomegranate is a naturally grown fruit utilized to promote a healthy heart, along with aiding in prostate health, and erectile function.

Potassium Gluconate is an organic salt that is used as a dietary supplement. Potassium, being one of the most important components of the body, it helps to carry positive electrical charges through the blood and the cells, thereby maintaining blood pressure and the water content of the blood. It also helps to regulate the number of heartbeats and also helps in converting food particles into energy. The growth of muscular cells can also be attributed to the presence of potassium through potassium gluconate. The kidneys remove potassium from the body while cleaning the blood and supplements of potassium gluconate help in maintaining a balance. A deficiency in potassium could lead to a condition known as Hyperkalemia, which in turn will lead to problems in cardiac functioning.

Psyllium Husk, is one of the highest sources of dietary fiber. Psyllium husk is a great colon cleanser, it can absorb up to 50 times its weight with toxins and other items from the intestines.

Red Clover Leaf is native to Asia and the eastern Mediterranean regions. It is found on roadsides and also in lawns. Red clover leaf grows to a height of 16 inches. The leaves are oval in shape with a V mark known as chevron in the center. The red clover flowers are purple in color and are in egg shape. They come as three part leaves. Trifolium is the genus name indicating three leaves. Red clover leaf belongs to the leguminosae family or the pea family. The other members as well include peanuts and beans besides peas. These plants take nitrogen from the environment ad biologically help other plants in growth and fixation. Red clover leaf is used as a mild sedative, expectorant and blood purifier. The tea prepared with this leaf is useful for bronchitis, asthma and respiratory spasms. Red clover leaf is useful for sores, skin ulcers, burns and athlete’s foot. Red clover flowers are useful in wine and in treating menstrual problems.

Red Raspberry Leaf is the best pal of gardeners. This is because though it has small prickles, it gives luscious berries in abundance. This plant is now found in gardens in the North America temperate regions. This plant is indigenous to Asia and Europe as well. They are common fruits used in fruit salads, fruit juices, preserves, jams, breakfast bars, fruit syrups, tarts and many other foods. Ted raspberry leaves have health promoting characteristics. They are filled with vitamin C and phenolic antioxidants namely tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanin pigments. The red raspberry leaf has bitter and harsh flavor, but is excellent with medicinal power. Tea prepared from red raspberry leaf is useful to cure wounds, upper respiratory disorders, colic pain and childbirth difficulties. The leaf tea is good for diarrhea treatment. The tea prepared using red raspberry leaf can be taken five to six times in a day. it has the ability to cure diarrhea as it is rich with tannins and they reduce intestinal inflammation. The raspberry leaf is also an effective mouthwash.

Sage Leaf Extract.

Uva Ursi is obtained from one of nature’s most powerful astringents, Uva Ursi. Uva Usi is a very strong herb and should be used only in those times when an immediate intervention is required. What makes Uva Ursi extract special is that it contains several different chemical compounds which are active against many pathogens found commonly in urinary tract infections. Thus Uva Ursi etract is thus used in many ways including as an antiseptic, astringent, and a diuretic. Using the Uva Ursi extract provides support to the urinary tract, bladder, liver and kidney function. It also helps soothe, strengthen and tighten irritated and inflamed tissues, as well as help treat infections like cystitis, urethritis and nephritis. The Uv Ursi extract is got from the tough leathery leaves of the plant. However since the leaves are almost impervious to water, the best way of getting the extraction is an overnight decoction. Uva Ursi extraction can also be taken as capsules or as a tincture.