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 is a plant that is used for many purposes. Its extract is often used for medicinal uses both internally and externally. Aloe is most commonly used for burns and scratches as a soothing gel that helps alleviate pain from burns as well as progress the healing process. Other skin conditions have been found to benefit from the use of aloe extract. Eczema, dry skin and minor wounds can be healed faster with the use of aloe. For internal use aloe has been found to help with heartburn in the form of a juice. It is also purported to have anti carcinogenic effects.

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 often used in traditional medicine as part of liver tonics as well as kidney function tonics as well. Burdock root is full of nutrients and helps the liver function more normally by helping the liver purge toxins from the body. When taken, the extract causes a sweating and urination response and is considered a diuretic. When taken with plenty of water, this helps flush the kidneys and let them work more efficiently on a day to day basis. On top of this, research shows that burdock root helps support and encourage the growth of beneficial colon bacteria and helps discourage the growth of bacterial pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract.

Caffeine is a stimulant that is used to stay awake and it gives mental alertness from fatigue. This is used as an adjunct for pain relief and also as energy accelerates. Caffeine is a non-prescription drug easily available as over the counter medication and comes in combination to acquire relief from headache and pain. Caffeine increases the mental alertness by offering the required energy for exercise training and weight loss. Caffeine cannot be considered as a mere stimulant as it reaches deep into muscles and provides power that is long lasting. Caffeine taken before any work out is also great as it fights the fatigue and keeps the person ready for the workout. Dieters also find caffeine as the solution as they feel sluggish. This is a no-calorie stimulant and does its job effectively and quickly. Caffeine anhydrous is found even in one or two coffee cups. However, this limitation is recommended as excess caffeine may result in irritability, rapid heart beat, nervousness and sleeplessness.

Cayenne peppers are rich in vitamin A and C, calcium and other nutrients. They cure fever, colds and sore throats. They improve the digestive process. They protect the heart by strengthening arteries and regulating blood flow thus preventing heart attacks. External use reduces discomfort and swelling due to frostbite and joint pains by increasing blood flow to the area. Cayenne oil reduces toothaches effectively. Cayenne powder keeps hands and feet warm by improving blood circulation, when sprinkled into gloves or shoes. It is also known to reduce itching. A water-cayenne mixture helps to stop external bleeding. It reduces internal bleeding by even distribution of blood in the body. It also increases vigor and stamina. You must consult a physician before using cayenne for medicinal purposes.

Chromium Polynicotinate is a more biologically active component than other forms of Chromium. CP helps to control blood sugar levels and can be dangerous to the blend of fats, cholesterol, and proteins. It is helpful in the metabolism of glucose and is important for getting energy. Chromium polynicotinate is a mineral that adds a hormone-like regulation to develop carbohydrate metabolism. As all carbohydrates finally are reduced to simple glucose in the body. Chromium polynicotinate provides the mediator action by plugging serum glucose through the bloodstream to the muscle cell directly. Chromium is essential for glucose regulation, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy production. It may also produce anabolic effects, but with no side effects.

Cranberry Extract has a number of natural medical advantages that include treating infections of the urinary tract, reducing cancerous cells, minimizing kidney stones and lowering the chances of cardiac problems. It takes care of all these problems because of the flavonoids present in the fruit. Cranberry extract also helps in the prevention of plaque formation and is commonly added in toothpastes and dental care solutions. A daily intake of cranberry juice reduces the growth of tumors and may even assist in the prevention of their growth. Besides this, it also lowers the level of bad cholesterol and increases the level of HDL or good cholesterol. Research is being carried out on the ability of cranberry extract to fight stroke, cancer and other viral infections.

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 oval in shape and belongs to the parsley family. This is yellowish brown or green in color and is a dried fruit. This seed has its origin in Egypt and India. Fennel seed goes well with Italian sausages and curry powder mixes. Fennel has the flavor of anise, but is sweeter, aromatic and less pungent. The name is acquired from ‘marathon’, the Greek word in reference to the famous battle that was fought against the Persians in the Fennel field. Fennel seeds are added to meat loaf and meatballs as it gives authentic flavor. This Italian flavor is highly preferred. The fennel seeds are saute with onion, sausage and sliced peppers to make pasta sauce. Fennel seeds are obtained from an aromatic medicinal plant. However, this seed emits pleasant flavor and is highly aromatic. The pungent flavor has made it a prominent ingredient as a spice to enhance the flavor of foods. This seed has essential oils and make strong seasoning.

Flax seed is rich in alpha linolenic acids that offer numerous health benefits to mankind. In fact, flax seed has actually become our modern miracle food considering the fact that it helps in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the body and also helps us reduce blood triglyceride and blood pressure. Given the amount of stress associated with urban living, people have become susceptible to a wide range of health problems that include diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, flax seed plays a major role in minimizing the risk of heart attack, since it keeps the platelets from becoming sticky. Flax seeds also have a high content of lignan, a type of phytoestrogen (antioxidant) that helps in cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer.

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 is commonly used for the treatment of nausea in pregnancy, chemotherapy, after surgery, and motion sickness.It is also used as an anti-platelet agent for people with high blood pressure. Ginger root is used as a circulatory and digestive stimulant a diuretic, a diaphoretic, for colds and flu; it eases cramps and spasm in the stomach. Ginger root is also used as a stimulant. It may also reduce the pain from arthritis and seems to have blood thinning and cholesterol lowering properties.

Glucomannan, a water soluble dietary fiber that comes from the konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). Glucomannan is a laxative used to create larger, bulkier stool.

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- A lot can be made from a grapefruit. The grapefruit extract is made from the pulp, white membranes and seed of the grapefruit. It is also known as the citrus seed extract. Grapefruit is one of those rare fruits whose all parts are of some use or the other. The fruit itself gives a tangy juice. Aromatherapy oils can be made with peels. The peels are also used as a source of dietary fiber. Grapefruit is said to be the most alkalizing of all fruits. To alkalize the body is one of the best ways to regenerate health. Alkaline environment is a hostile environment for diseases to live in. It also helps in stimulating the human immune system. It helps in preserving the intestinal bacteria along with its integrity in return making life sustainable.

Hawthorne Berry, also called White Thorn, Haw, May Blossom, Hay Berry and May Day Flower. Hawthorne Berry is red in color and comes from a spiny tree called the hawthorne shrub. Hawthorne Berry is believed to be good for the heart and is commonly used to expell excess salt from the body to reduce water retention. Hawthorn Berries contain vitamins C and B complex, crataegin, carotene, flavonoids and sugars.

Irish Moss, also called Chondrus crispus, a species of red algae. Irish moss contains 55 to 90 percent mucilage, and small amounts of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, chlorine, phosphorous, bromine, fluorine, sodium, potassium, calcium, silica, iodine, and magnesium. Irish Moss is also soothing to the digestive system.

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 great tasting fruit that promotes good health.

Mint Leaf is commonly used as a stomachic and also helps support digestion.

Noni Fruit is a well known herbal agent for skin care. The juice of the noni fruit helps in healing the cells of the body and that is the reason for its association with a variety of health products. The noni fruit contains a large amount of antioxidants, which prevents cell damage by free radicals. Aging skin and skin damage are prevented by the juice of the noni plant, along with general well being of the nervous, circulatory, metabolic, digestive and immune systems. Noni fruit extracts produce xeronine in the body, which is useful in the repair of damaged cells in the body. Because of its ability to boost the immune system, it helps the body to fight a large number of diseases and infections.

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 leaves have been used for centuries as a mild diuretic and astringent. It is also used in treatment of urinary tract infections like cystitis, urethritis and nephritis, pyelitis and in pyelonephritis. It can also assist in decreasing accumulations of uric acid and relieve pain of bladder stones. It is beneficial for chronic diarrhea. Being a muscle relaxant and nutritional supplement, Uva Ursi soothes, strengthens, and tightens irritated and inflamed tissues. It is a good diuretic, astringent, and antiseptic agent. Uva Ursi is also a good tonic for weak kidneys, pancreas and liver. It is helpful in relieving headache, preventing and curing scurvy, and treating urinary tract infections. It also assists in preventing postpartum infection.