Herbs from the South American Rainforest

Ingredient descriptions:

Peruvian Cat's Claw (Uña de Gato) bark (Uncaria tomentosa) Rainforest

Actions: Deep immune activator, tonic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, hypotensive, cardiac tonic.

Common Use: This amazing vine from the Peruvian rain forest is offered in Peruvian pharmacies. The label states that the curative properties are almost unlimited. This is because the herb is considered a powerful cellular reconstitutor. Studies beginning in 1970 and continuing through today suggest it has applications in the treatment of cancer, arthritis, gastritis, ulcers, rheumatism, acne, organic depression, bursitis, genital herpes and herpes zoster, allergies, systematic candidiasis, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, PMS, irregularities of the female cycle, environmental toxic poisoning, numerous bowel and intestinal disorders and those infected with the HIV virus. Studies done at the Shanghai College of Traditional Chinese Medicine indicate that rynchophylline, an alkaloid contained in cat's claw bark, has the ability to inhibit platelet aggregation and Thrombosis, which suggests that the compound in this plant may be useful in preventing strokes and reducing the risk of heart attack by lowering blood pressure, increasing circulation, and inhibiting both the formation of plaque on the arterial walls and the formation of blood clots in the brain, heart and arteries. 15 to 30 drops 2-3 daily. Do not use with anti-ulcer medications. Not recommended if pregnant or nursing.

An informative article about Cat's Claw bark.

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Brazilian Catuaba bark (Juniperis brasilinsis)

Actions: Aphrodisiac, nervine, tonic.

Common Use: The historic traditional use of this herbal tonic is legendary. Many say it is the most famous of all the Brazilian aphrodisiac plants. It is a strong tonic and nervous system fortifier. It is known for its general capability of giving strength and relieving fatigue. The effect is pronounced in men, especially as a libido enlivener. Many songs praising its wonders have been sung by the Brazilian Indians. It is often used in combination with Muira Puama for tonifying the male sexual and urinary organs, specifically as an aphrodisiac and for impotence. It has reported benefits in relieving insomnia from hypertension, restless sleeping patterns, and even in helping to arrest failing memory. There is a saying in South America that says, " Until a father is 60, the son is his; after that the son is Catuaba's." It is said that regular consumption of Catuaba bark over a period of time leads first to erotic dreams, which are later followed by increased libido. Catuaba is considered an "innocent" aphrodisiac, meaning no adverse side effects have been reported in its use. This herb combines well with Brazilian Muira Puama root. 20 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily.

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Brazilian Guarana fruit (Paullinia cupana)

Actions: Stimulant, diuretic, nervine tonic.

Common Use: Guarana is a caffiene rich beverage from South America. In Brazil it is made into a popular cola drink known as Brazilian Cocoa which is used for energy and stimulation. Also used as a systemic cleanser, nervine tonic, anti-fatigue stimulant and is known to reduce hunger, relieve headaches including migraines, help alleviate PMS symptoms and has a reputation as an aphrodisiac. 10 to 30 drops to 3 times daily or as needed. This herb contains caffeine and should not be overused. Not recommended if pregnant or nursing.

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Brazilian Jatoba bark (Hymenaea courbaril)

Actions: Tonic, energizer, anti-fungal, decongestant.

Common Uses: In the Brazilian rainforest, Jatoba bark is considered a tonic and energizer and is especially popular amongst Brazilian lumerjacks to increase strength, vigor and productivity. It is also said to be effective in the treatment of a wide range of respitory ailments including asthma, laryngitis, bronchitis, lung weakness and chronic coughs as well as in the treatment of yeast and fungal infections, cystitis, bladder infections, arthritis, prostatitis, bursitis and hemorrhage. 15 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Brazilian Jurubeba herb (Solanum paniculatum)

Actions: Liver and digestive aid.

Common Uses: Jurubeba is probably most popular in Brazil as a hangover remedy. The herb is used after excess food and alcohol consumption to alleviate indigestion and bloating in the stomach. It is also said to be helpful in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, liver disease such as chronic hepatitis, liver obstruction and swelling of the liver and spleen. 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily or as needed. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Peruvian Maca root (Lepidium meyenii)

Actions: Nutritive, aphrodisiac, tonic, adaptogen.

Common Use: Peruvian Maca root, or Amazon Ginseng as it is sometimes referred to, is a vegetable root or tuber, related to the potato and the Mexican Wild Yam. Maca root has been used by the native Peruvians since before the time of the Incas for both its nutritional and medicinal properties. It contains significant amounts of amino acids, complex carbohydrates, vitamins B1, B2, B12, C and E and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium and iron. This herb has been traditionally used to increase energy, vitality, stamina and endurance in athletes, promote mental clarity, as an aphrodisiac for both men and women, for male impotence, menstrual irregularities and female hormone imbalances, including menopause. Due to the number of steroidal glycosides present in Maca root it is gaining popualrity amongst weight lifters and body builders as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Brazilian Muira Puama root (Ptychopetalum olacoides)

Actions: Aphrodisiac, stimulant, astringent, nervous system tonic.

Common Use: Muira Puama or Liriosma, is a tree that grows in the rain forests of Brazil. Commonly referred to as Potency Wood or Raiz del Macho (Root of the Male), these names give a good indication of the aphrodisiac qualities this root is said to possess. Used as a mild tonic for depressed basal metabolism, it often exhibits distinct sexual stimulation in both sexes. This herb is influential in treating the symptoms of nervous problems and disorders, such as neurasthenia, neuralgia and nervous depression. It makes an excellent tonic for the nervous system. Also indicated for those with low energy levels but no particular organic or emotional problems, impotency, frigidity, general lassitude, poor sacral stimulation, cold hands and feet, menstrual cramps and PMS and is thought to fortify the stomach and intestines. This root combines well with Brazilian Catuaba bark. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant. 20 to 40 drops twice daily.

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Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)

Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, antispasmodic, anodyne, nervine.

Common Use: Passion flower is the herb of choice for insomnia, it aids the transition into a restful sleep without any 'narcotic' hangover. As an anti-spasmodic it will be helpful in Parkinson's disease, asthma (with associated tension and spasmodic activity), seizures and hysteria. It can also be effective in nerve pain such as neuralgia and the viral infection of nerves called shingles. 10 to 45 drops 2-4 times daily. Or 45 to 90 drops in the evening as needed.

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Brazilian Pau d'Arco bark (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Actions: Alterative, antifungal, antibacterial, depurative, immune support.

Common Use: Since information on its antifungal and anti-candida properties were made known, this is the herb of choice for Candidiasis. It is reported to be a natural blood cleanser and builder. It has antibiotic properties which can aid in destroying viral infections in the body. It has been used to give the body strength and energy and to protect and strengthen the immune system. Scientific studies also show that the active ingredient of Pau d'arco, lapachol, can inhibit tumor growth. It has also been used in healing diseases such as arthritis, asthma, diabetes, gonorrhea, hemorrhage, hernia, infection, liver ailments, lupus, Parkinson's disease, pyorrhea, skin problems, spleen, ulcers, varicose veins and wounds. 20 to 45 drops 3-5 times daily.

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Brazilian Pedra Hume Caa leaf (Myrcia salicifolia v. sp.)

Actions: Diabetic aid.

Common Uses: Animal research done abroad has claimed to have proven that Pedra Hume Caa is effective in treating diabetes in dogs and rabbits. When tests were done on humans it was found to be more effective in treating cases of adult-onset diabetes than juvenile diabetes. Pedra Hume Caa is often called "vegetable insulin" and has been traditionally used to eliminate the sugar from the urine of diabetics and to treat diarrhea. 15 to 30 drops twice daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Quebra Pedra (Phyllanthus niruri v. sp.)

Common Use: Quebra Pedra has traditionally been used to strengthen and fortify the liver and gall-bladder functions by stimulating bile production. It has been used in the alternative therapy of hepatitis and liver problems. Quebra Pedra can also clear obstructions throughout the system by promoting the elimination of mucous and kidney stones. As a diuretic it will help with all afflictions of the urinary system, stimulating the elimination of uric acid and helping with urinary tract infections. It may also promote health in those wiht bronchitis, diabetes and hypertension. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Brazilian suma root (Pfaffia paniculata)

Actions: Adaptogen, tonic, aphrodisiac, restorative, astringent.

Common Use: Suma root, also known as Para Todo (For All Things) is called "Brazilian Ginseng" by some herbalists and is one of the most highly regarded South American herbs. While not a true member of the Panax ginseng family, it is an authentic adaptogenic herb, and as such exerts a normalizing influence on your body and can help regulate and enhance your endocrine, nervous, digestive, cardiovascular and immune systems. South American Natives have used Suma for centuries to treat wounds, skin rashes, low energy and sexual disinterest. The overall effect is to give you an increased resistance to stress while having a cell-building and regenerating effect. It also has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate chronic and acute pain. Suma root is also quite valuable nutritionally as it contains essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and trace elements. Researchers have identified 152 chemical constituents in the root, including 19 amino acids, electrolytic and trace minerals such as iron, magnesium, cobalt, silica and zinc, as well as vitamins A, B-1, B-2, E, K and pantothenic acid. It contains high amounts of the trace element germanium, which is a powerful immune stimulator. The germanium may be partly responsible for Suma's powerful ability to bring more oxygen to the cells. Suma root is becoming quite popular because of its high content of several palnt hormones. It is considered one of the richest sources of B-Ecdysterone, a plant hormone that can help maintain your youth and strength. B-Ecdysterone can also accelerate wound healing , along with allantoin (comfrey also contains allantoin), a known cellular rebuilder that is present in this plant. Research in Brazil, Japan and the United States has found unique natural substances in Suma called pfaffosides which are believed to reduce tumors and regulate blood sugar levels. Suma helps regulate your blood pressure, cholesterol, hormones (especially estrogen) and acid-base balance. Doctors and herbalists in South America, North America and Europe have successfully treated people with conditions as diverse as chronic low energy and weakness, recurrent infections, viral syndromes, early onset of various cancers, diabetes, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, PMS, benign prostrate enlargement, impotence, rheumatism and peptic ulcers. You can benefit by using Suma root as a healing agent, tonic or aphrodisiac. 15 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if pregant or nursing.

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Amazon Tayuya root (Cayaponia tayuya v. sp.)

Actions: Alterative, depurative, nutritive, rejuvinator, nervine, digestive aid, liver tonic.

Common Uses: This remarkable plant from the Amazon Rainforest has been traditionally used to purify the blood and detoxify the system. It is believed that this herb can help retard the aging process, help the body retain youthful vigor, postpone degenerative disease or speed up recovery from disease by providing essential nutrients, supporting the hormonal and nervous systems, activating enzymatic systems and regulating metabolism. It has also been used to calm the pain associated with neuralgias, sciatica, backaches, headaches and rheumatism. Its beneficial action on the digestive system can help improve sluggish digestion, reverse the discomfort of excess stomach acid, relieve stomach tension and clear liver obstructions. Tayuya is also said to have a very beneficial effect on a wide variety of skin problems. 20 to 45 drops 2-4 times daily and/or as needed.

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Brazilian Yerba Maté leaf (Ilex paraguariensis)

Actions: Tonic, stimulant, diuretic.

Common Uses: Mental and physical fatigue. Based on its caffeine content, Maté is used as a centrally acting stimulant and as a diuretic. Since Maté tea is greatly appreciated throughout much of South America as a "national drink", the people ascribe many other effects to it. It is not surprising then that in Europe as well Maté is praised as "the green gold of the Indios", as a "natural remedy and magic drink" and especially as "the ideal slimming remedy" which facilitates losing weight in a natural way and stills the distressing feeling of hunger and thirst. Its richness in natural mineral salts - calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, silica, phosphates - as well as vitamins, adds greatly to its usefulness as a beverage. 10 to 45 drops as desired.

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Cat's Claw / Pau d' Arco Plus

Immune Support Tonic. This combination of herbs includes deep immune activators, surface immune activators (anti-microbials) and adaptogens. This specific combination can help support and strengthen the body’s natural immune functions on all levels.

Contents: Peruvian Cat’s Claw bark, Brazilian Pau d’Arco bark, Chinese Astragalus root, Echinacea angustifolia root, Red Reishi mushroom, Chinese Schizandra berry, Siberian Ginseng root, Chinese Ligustrum (Privet) fruit and Licorice root. 20 to 45 drops 3-4 times daily. Recommended to be taken for 3-4 months consecutively for best results. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Catuaba / Fo-Ti Plus

Female Sexual Tonic. This formula contains herbs traditionally believed to have sexually stimulating effects. These herbs have been used to nourish, tone and stimulate the sexual glands, enhancing the production of sexual hormones. They are used as tonics to help maintain good sexual health, restore sexual prowess and possibly induce a feeling of sexual arousal.

Contents: Brazilian Catuaba bark, Chinese Fo-Ti root, Brazilian Muira Puama root, Peruvian Maca root, Mexican Damiana leaf, American Ginseng root, Chinese Cordyceps fungus, Chinese Schizandra berry, Brazilian Suma root and Ginger root in a base containing 100% pure, fresh and natural Royal Jelly. Maintenance Tonic: 15 to 30 drops 1-2 times daily. Restorative Tonic: 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily or 45 to 60 drops 1 hour before needed. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Catuaba / Guarana Plus

Male Sexual Stimulant. This formula contains herbs traditionally believed to have sexually stimulating effects. Their actions can help nourish and stimulate the male sexual glands, enhancing the production of sexual hormones. They are used to help restore sexual prowess (combating sexual exhaustion) and male sexual impotence and can possibly induce a feeling of sexual arousal.

Contents: Brazilian Catuaba bark, Brazilian Muira Puama root, Brazilian Guarana fruity seed, Peruvian Maca root, African Yohimbe bark, Indian Sida Cordifolia, Mexican Damiana leaf, Chinese Cordyceps fungus, Brazilian Suma root, Chinese Schizandra berry, Korean Panax Ginseng root and Ginger root in a base containing concentrated Bee Pollen extract. 15 to 45 drops once or twice daily or 30 to 60 drops 1 hour before needed. For long term use see Damiama Plus. Not recommended for nursing or pregnant women. This formula contains caffeine. Do not use when caffeine is contraindicated or with high blood pressure.

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Damiama™ Plus (Damiana / Muira Puama)

Nervous System Fortifier and Sexual Tonic. This formula has the sexual energy-enhancing properties of adaptogens as well as a tonifying and strengthening effect on the central nervous and hormonal systems. Its actions can nourish, tone and stimulate the sexual glands while also beneficially feeding the central nervous system. Useful for sexual problems where anxiety and depression are factors.

Contents: Mexican Damiana leaf, Brazilian Muira Puama root, Brazilian Catuaba bark, Green Oat seed and straw, Amazon Tayuya root, fresh Nettle leaf, Brazilian Suma root, Chinese Fo-Ti root, Peruvian Maca root, Chinese Schizandra berry, Chinese Cordyceps fungus and Ginger root in a base containing concentrated Bee Pollen extract. Maintenance Tonic: 15 to 30 drops 1-2 times daily. Restorative Tonic: 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily or 45-60 drops 1 hour before needed. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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SuMaca™ Plus

Energy & Athletic Training Tonic. This combination of herbs contains significant amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, complex carbohydrates and protein. These herbs have been specifically used to increase energy, stamina and endurance in athletes. Due to the content of B-Ecdysterone in Suma root and a number of other steroidal glycosides present in Suma and Maca, these herbs have been used successfully by weight lifters and body builders as safe and natural alternatives to anabolic steroids. This formula also contains the adaptogenic and rejuvenating benefits of Chinese Cordyceps and the energizing properties of Brazilian Jatoba.

Contents: Brazilian Suma root, Peruvian Maca root, Siberian Ginseng (Chinese Ciwujia) root, Brazilian Jatoba bark and Chinese Cordyceps in a base containing concentrated Bee Pollen extract. 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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SumaCeps™ Plus

Restorative / Rejuvinative Tonic. This formula makes an excellent adaptogenic, nutritive and/or restorative tonic with a special emphasis on physical restoration and maintenance. These herbs have traditionally been used to restore vitality, prevent premature aging, strengthen immune function and increase physical performance capabilities. This formula makes an excellent restorative, rejuvenating or revitalizing tonic that can be used to strengthen the body after exhaustion or long term illness or just to strengthen the body.

Contents: Brazilian Suma root, Chinese Cordyceps fungus, Amazon Tayuya root, Chinese Astragalus root, Chinese Ligustrum (Privet) fruit, Indian Ashwagandha root, Chinese Codonopsis root, Chinese Fo-Ti root, Chinese Lycium berry, Chinese Atractylodes root, Chinese Schizandra berry, Siberian Ginseng (Chinese Ciwujia) root and Indian Gotu Kola herb in a base containing concentrated Bee Pollen extract. 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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SumaFlex™ Plus

Athletic Training & Adrenal Revitalizing Tonic. This formula contains herbs that have been shown to feed and renew the adrenal glands, promoting activity and reintegration in body function. They contain the natural precursors of the adrenal hormones. The use of these herbs may be of benefit to those who have been on steroid drug therapy or for anyone in very stressful conditions. Due to the natural steroidal-like activity of herbs in this formula it may be an excellent addition to body building, weight lifting and athletic training programs for men and women.

Contents: Brazilian Suma root, Peruvian Maca root, Chinese Cordyceps fungus, Siberian Ginseng (Chinese Ciwujia) root, Mexican Wild Yam root, Licorice root, Korean Panax Ginseng root, Saw Palmetto berry and Mexican Damiana leaf in a base containing concentrated Bee Pollen extract. 20 to 45 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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