A-Z health uses Articles

Humulus Lupulus has been used in brewing as a bitter flavouring, preservative and antibiotic for over a thousand years. When it was being harvested by hand, it was noticed that hops pickers were often drowsy. The small amount of volatile oil in Hops is concentrated when the flower is dried and this is what is said to give the herb its sedative effects. Today it is widely valued for its sleep-inducing and calming properties.

Humulus Lupulus Plant History

The Hops vines grow only female flower clusters on their hairy stems and are found in Europe, Western Asia and North America. Herbal medicine makes use of the dried female fruiting bodies called strobiles. They have both a spicy aroma and bitter taste, which account for Hop's ability to increase gastric secretions and appetite, making it a useful digestive aid.

Health Benefits of Humulus Lupulus

Humulus Lupulus, like many plants, has been used in different areas for slightly different medicinal uses. Native Americans used Hops for insomnia and pain. In Europe, it was traditionally given as a general tonic, to relieve rheumatism and joint pain, cure fever, remove obstructions and as a diuretic. 

It has also been used to treat jaundice and abdominal discomforts, such as gas, cramping and diarrhea. It can be used to treat infection, as it is known to have anti-microbial properties. 

Today, the use of Hops is more restricted to its use as an anti-anxiety, relaxant and sedative. It is also often combined with other herbs to treat acute menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, insomnia and mood swings. It is said to have mild estrogenic effects.

Humulus Lupulus Supplement Varieties

Hops can be used fresh or dried and put in a sachet under one’s pillow to promote a good night’s sleep or made into tea. It is also typically used in tincture (Alcohol extract) form, although can be made into both oil and tablets, as well. 

As a dried substance, approximately 300-400 mg/day is commonly used. As a liquid extract, 1.5-3 ml/day can be used. 

Potential Side Effects & Important Considerations

Hops are considered safe and non-toxic, and compared to other sedatives are said to be very mild. Individuals with peanut, chestnut and banana allergies may also find they are allergic to hops or hops pollen. These individuals should be cautious when consuming this substance. Individuals using hops while also on CNS depressant medication may want to be cautious while driving or operating machinery. It is not recommended in pregnancy and lactation.

Parts Used – Female flowers (Strobiles)

What is Rosemary?

Rosemary is a popular herb in the kitchen as well as the medicine cabinet. It has a long history of use in foods because it stimulates digestion and reduces spasms of the gallbladder, stomach, and intestines. Its chemical components increase the release of digestive juices and it also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used for muscle and joint injuries like athletic injuries and arthritis.

Rosemary's Benefits

Rosemary stimulates circulation through the heart can improve the symptoms of heart disease. Historically, it was used topically as a wash or gargle, for wounds and sores and, as an inhalation, during respiratory infections. It has the ability to prevent and fight infections. Currently, research is being done on its antioxidant properties for possible use in general wellness and healthy cell growth.

Shopping For Quality Rosemary

Rosemary can be purchased as a dried herb, fresh herb, encapsulated leaf or essential oil. Dried ground herbs that are used as a spice have less medicinal value because the essential oils are lost in the drying process. The essential oil is the most potent form of the herb and must be used cautiously due to possible toxicity. Externally rosemary can be added to a bath or used as a steam inhalation.

When used as a spice, it has very few side effects. Most side effects and cautions are relevant only when supplements are used; however, the essential oil is toxic in high doses.

Cautions & Considerations

Rosemary should not be used during pregnancy because it may lead to miscarriage. Individuals who are at an increased risk of stroke, have active bleeding, blood clotting disorders or those who use blood thinners should use this herb with caution.

What is Spirulina?

Spirulina is an edible, water-grown cyanobacterium (Arthrospira species) that is often hailed as a complete superfood. Packed with a rich array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it is also a source of complete protein, making it a staple for vegetarians and vegans. Natural health practitioners recommend spirulina for a broad range of conditions, such as aiding in recovery after illness, managing hypoglycemias, lowering high cholesterol, detoxifying from chemicals or heavy metals, addressing malnutrition, and supporting healthy cell growth and nutrient absorption. Because spirulina is so easy to cultivate and harvest, whether in freshwater ponds or commercial facilities, it's regarded as an incredibly sustainable food resource, offering a low environmental footprint while delivering potent nutritional benefits. 

Spirulina Health Benefits & Nutritional Profile

Protein Content in Spirulina

By weight, it contains 60-70% protein. It is a source of complete protein because it contains all of the essential amino acids. It is actually superior to typical plant protein sources, such as legumes, and because of this, it is a great addition to any vegetarian diet. Also, these proportionately high levels of protein can actually help to stabilize blood sugar when spirulina is supplemented between meals. This can help to reduce sugar fluctuations in diabetics and those with hypoglycemia.

Healthy Fat Content

By weight, it is approximately 7% fat, which is almost entirely healthy omega-3 and 6 fats. It is a rich source of GLA, ALA, and linoleic acid. It also contains EPA and DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids also found in fish oil. These healthy fats can help to regulate cholesterol levels and stimulate healthy steroid hormone synthesis, including sex hormones. EPA acts as an anti-inflammatory in the body, and DHA helps to promote proper brain health.

B vitamins in Spirulina

It contains a few different B vitamins, including: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B9 (folic acid). Although many companies claim that spirulina is a source of vitamin B12, the kind found in it is not active in humans, so alternative sources of vitamin B12 are still required.

Carotenoids

Some of the nutrients found in spirulina are carotenoids such as: beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. These are strong antioxidants that can help to protect the body against free radicals.

Chlorophyll

Part of the green colour of it is created by the presence of chlorophyll. This nutrient is a potent detoxifier that can help to speed the release of toxins from the bloodstream by binding them in the intestines. Chlorophyll can also help to increase the oxygenation of tissues by nourishing red blood cells. Interestingly, it has also been shown to do the work of hemoglobin in the blood, which is thought to be due to it resembling the human hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying) molecule.

Phycocyanin

Spirulina also contains phycocyanin, a blue-green pigment that has been shown in animal models to increase the survival rate in unhealthy liver cells. Further research is required to establish this effect.

Other Vitamins and Minerals

In addition to the B vitamins, spirulina also contains vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin D. These are strong antioxidants that perform a number of different functions in the body. It is also a source of important electrolytes and minerals such as potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, chromium, and zinc. Each of these is essential to the maintenance of health.

How Can I Get More Spirulina?

As a supplement, spirulina is found in tablets, liquid, and powder. Some commercial “green food” smoothies and “energy” drinks contain spirulina. Greens powders also often contain this nutrient due to its rich nutritional benefits. You can take spirulina supplements or make some dishes at home to get more spirulina. Here is the recipe for Spirulina Chocolate Dough Bites.

Contamination Fears

It has been declared safe by the US National Institute of Health. Unfortunately, certain strains of cyanobacteria produce small amounts of toxins, and if these are inadvertently mixed with the spirulina during improper culturing, it can cause small levels of contamination. There is also the potential for heavy metal contamination, depending on the water source from which it is grown. Be sure to use a trusted source for your spirulina to ensure you get all of the health benefits without any potential detriments.