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 refers to a plant originated in Southern Africa and it was used for anointing bodies. These leaves are smooth and perennial shrubs that are purplish brown in color and are in 2 to 3 feet height. They bear flowers in pink or white color. Buchu leaves contain strong odor and are aromatic like mint. The distillation of Buchu leaves in association with wine was used for bowel, stomach and bladder ailments. Buchu leaves contain chlorophyll, gum, volatile oil, resin, etc. Even the burned buchu leaf contains high manganese and oxycamphor is the diosphenol obtained. These leaves contain lipids, bioflavonoids, diosmin and terpineol. The decoction of these leaves also was useful in healing wounds. Buchu leaves paste is also useful to be applied on the skin as these leaves when combined with oil can be used as perfume. The buchu leaves improve appetite as well as relieves gas and nausea. It is principally used to cure irritable conditions in the urethra and inflammation in the bladder. Buchu is useful in treating rheumatism and gout.

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 the most widely used legal stimulant of the central nervous system and is also used in 7 Day Detox, with characteristics that have been described as restoration of alertness and removing from drowsiness. Coffee, Tea, many soft drinks and energy drinks as well as nutrition supplements have this ingredient, which is a psychoactive substance, a xanthine alkaloid that can act as a adenosine receptor antagonist, as well as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Although regular use of caffeine seems to have nootropic effects, enhancing cognitive abilities, it also is known to provide long term effects on the nervous and cardiovascular system, like in one study it was proven that people with normal to low blood pressure have the possibility of developing a heart disease significantly reduced, as well as the chance of getting the Parkinson’s disease.

Cayenne, which contains Capsaicin, a thermogenic substance. A thermogenic raises your core temperature, which allows you to burn more calories from food, particularly when eating a high fat meal.

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 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- Zingiber officinale is the actual plant that grows an underground stem, commonly called ginger root and is a very popular spice, which also has medicinal properties. Main components of the ginger root are a mixture of volatile oils, zingerone, shogaols and gingerols, which have been found to display analgesic, antipyretic, antibacterial and sedative properties. Ginger also contains a fragrant essential oil, essentially consisting of sesquiterpenoids. As a spice, it is an important part of the Indian and Chinese cuisine, in the Western World it is known as the main ingredient in cookies, such as the gingerbread man, but also in the popular beverage ginger ale. Traditionally used as a treatment for nausea, diarrhea, motion sickness, general stomach settler, but also as a cold remedy, just recently properties for treatment of osteoarthritis and diabetes have been discovered.

Glucomannan- Every time we switch on the television or turn the pages of a magazine, we run into hundreds of ads promoting a myriad of weight loss products. However, the only ones that really work are those that have sufficient scientific backing. One such product is the Glucomannan - a fiber, a water-soluble polysaccharide. It is derived from the corm, or roots of the Konjac plant found in Japan, Asia, China, and Indonesia. Although the product has gained immense popularity as an effective solution to obesity, Glucomannan offers other benefits too. It is highly effective for treating several health problems such as high cholesterol, acne, tye2 diabetes, and even constipation. An important reason why obese and overweight individuals include it in their weight loss program is that Glucomannan leaves them feeling so full that they end up eating fewer calories.

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- 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 is a soluble fiber. Pectins usually bind with bile and promote it's removal.

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 commonly used as a stomachic and also helps support digestion.

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

Oat Bran refers to the external oat grain husk. This is usually discarded in the milling process. This is regrettable as it contains the best of the dietary fiber and also has good amounts of minerals. The grains are normally marketed as whole grain, but oat bran is sold separately. Nowadays, oat bran is available in the markets easily. The cereal grains have three parts namely, the bran, endosperm and the germ. The endosperm is used in making white flour. The germ is nutrient rich and is usually extracted in association with the bran. The bran is highly rich in fiber and also protects the grain thereby offering nutrition and fiber to the plant. Oat bran is used as additive in baked goods such as muffins as it has a rich and distinctive texture with a nutty flavor. Oat bran is added to breads owing to its fiber content. It also is supplemented to breakfast cereals. Cooks also supplement oat bran to scones, cookies and pancakes. The fiber content is truly very beneficial in decreasing the levels of cholesterol and is a preventative for various cancer forms. It is integrated to make a healthy diet.

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 thrives in the Middle East. Psyllium husk refers to the covering of seeds and this is recognized as one of the best ways of acquiring high dietary fiber count. Certainly, Oat bran is also an excellent fiber source. Subsequently, Psyllium husk offers heavy dose of dietary fiber and is the main ingredient for dietary fiber powders and supplements such as Metamucil. Psyllium husk passes through the digestive tract by absorbing water and hence is of immense use to people suffering from diarrhea or constipation. The intake of dietary fiber assists in improving the condition such that it results in making the stool bulkier and softer. Taking Psyllium Husk with plenty of water is very important. Drinking even six to seven glasses of water is recommended. Similarly, taking high fiber cereals such as Heartwise and Bran Buds also should be taken with lots of water. Psyllium Husk is also useful in reducing blood cholesterol. However, care should be taken while taking Psyllium Husk as some people may be allergic to this fiber.

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 a woody shrub of evergreen leaves featuring a red berry fruit. This and some related species are being referred to as bearberries. At home on the Northern Hemisphere, it has been used for medicinal purposes for a long time. The active ingredient is arbutin, a glycoside with antimicrobial and mild diuretic properties. The leaves were often used for medicinal tea, where, besides arbutin, other active ingredients exist, like tannic acid, gallic acid, ursolic acid, resin, hydroquinones, tannins, flavonoids and phenolic glycosides. The uva ursi extract is said to help, among other uses, as a mild stimulant, sedative, disinfectant, tonic and urinary antiseptic. Its use included fighting kidney stones and infections, nephritis, pancreatitis, vaginal diseases, diabetes, where it removes excess sugar from blood, and obesity.