Omega 3 Fish Oils Review: Benefits and Information
Fish oils have attracted much attention for the health benefits attributed to the essential fats they contain. These fats are known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Though fat is often given a bad name, there are fats that are essential for health, and fish oils are top sources of these fats. Known as omega-3 fatty acids, the essential oils in fish help protect against a range of illnesses, including...
Devils Claw: Anti-Inflammatory & Arthritis Fighter
What is Devil’s Claw? Devil’s claw is a medicinal plant native to southern regions of the African desert. Its name comes from the claw-shaped pods that hold the plant’s seeds. African natives have dried and used the roots of devil’s claw as a folk remedy for many years. The herb has gained popularity in Europe and North America since the 1950’s, when colonists in Africa introduced devil’s claw to their native countries. What...
Aloe vera Review: Benefits and Information
Though they look more like cactus plants, Aloe vera plants are actually members of the lily family and are classified as succulents. Aloe vera was originally native to Egypt, and the ancient Egyptians were among the first people to use it as a medicinal plant. Though there are hundreds of Aloe varieties, Aloe barbadensis Miller is the one used for most commercial products, which range from creams and lotions to drinks to nutritional...
Bromelain Review: Examining The Benefits and Side Effects
Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzymes derived from the stems and juice of pineapples. It’s used commercially as a meat tenderizer, but also has a range of therapeutic uses, when taken in supplement form. Many people feel that bromelain helps to relieve symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn and upset stomach. In this capacity, it can be used as a standalone supplement, or part of a blend with...
Avena sativa Benefits And Information
Avena sativa, more commonly known as oats, has long been used as a cereal grain. People have eaten oats since prehistoric times, and they’re used to feed livestock as well. Oats are relatively high in protein (for a grain) and contain a number of nutrients and bioactive compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, starch, soluble fiber, alkaloids, sterols, calcium, iron, B-vitamins and the essential amino acids lysine and...
Evening Primrose Oil Benefits and Side Effects
Evening primrose is a wildflower that grows throughout North America, Europe and some parts of Asia. The seeds of this plant (Oenothera biennis) contain oil that is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is an omega-6 essential fatty acid (EFA). The body converts GLA into prostaglandins, substances that function like hormones and help to regulate body processes. Evening primrose oil (EPO) is often recommended as an alternative...