Herb Superfoods

This is an all round immune booster which improves digestion dramatically. It's a favourtite with many people, not just for its cold and flu fighting capabilities, but for its use in weight management and fighting fatigue.

A cup of warm water followed by a cup of nettle cup teat first thing in the morning will get you going in the bowel department. Nettle also cleanses the liver and helps keep infections at bay. You can eat young nettle leaves in spring - they are rich in vitamins and minerals. Cook and use in the same way as spinach and use in salads - once cooked, they no longer sting. When you're picking young nettles, remember to choose an area well away from roads and other pollutants. Alternatively drink 2 cups of nettle tea daily or take as a tincture. It's a superb pick me up in the middle of the day. For men with prostate problems, start drinking 2-3 cups daily.

Aloe is used for digestive disorders, bloating, gas and flatulence. Take approcimately 1 tablespoon daily or follow directions on bottle. Mix with apple or fruit juice for a more pleasant taste.

Ginseng is one of the oldest known herbal remedies, having been used as an energizing tonic for thousands of years. it's a rejuvenative herb that works by nourishing tired blood and helping the body adapt to stress. In clinical practice, it has been found to have particularly beneficial to patients during or after illness and just after surgery for its restorative and anti infection qualities. It is also excellent for preventing or alleviating jet lag. Drink as a tea, 1 cup daily, or in capsule or tincture form.

Now available everywhere due to its soaring popularity in recent years, echinacea is a household name when it comes to warding off the common cold. The reason that I like it so much is because it moves the fluid inside the body called lymph. Lymph runs parallel to the bloodstream and carries toxins out of the body. Unless you exercise daily, lymph won't move enough. Echinacea can come to the rescue. Take in liquid or capsule form, for 2-3 week periods, then take a break.