Ayurvedic medicine

Ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine practiced in India and practiced in other parts of the world as "alternative medicine". The word Ayurvedia is translated to mean "the science of life", it is believed to have been around since the 1st millennium BCE.

This information was found in a popular ladies magazine, and, as always, talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements.

Guggul - Studies show that the resin from this tree lowers the "bad" cholesterol by 22% and improves the "good" cholesterol by 35% within 3 months. It also stimulates thyroid function, which causes a boost in metabolism. It is an ingredient in many of today's weight loss products. Recommended does is 25 mg 3 times per day.

Boswellia - Known as the Indian Frankincense, this herb is study-proven to reduce joint pain and swelling as well as any OTC pain reliever. It's anti-inflammatory compounds prevent the breakdown of joint tissue and cartilage that leads to arthritis. It can reduce pain, stiffness and swelling in current arthritis within just 2 weeks.

Tulsi - Also known as Holy Basil, it is NOT the basil in your spice rack. It is proven to cure blue moods and even depression by boosting the production of serotonin and dopamine. It works within 72 hours. Drink a cup or two of Tulsi tea daily.

Neem - The flowering Indian tree has powerful and anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antiseptic properties that kill bacteria on contact. It is as effective at preventing plaque and gum disease as its chemical counterpart and can even reverse periodontal disease. It is found in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Ashwagandha - This leafy Indian shrub has been used for relief of anxiety for more than 4,000 years. It lowers blood levels of Cortisol and Adrenaline, which are two stress hormones, and boosts production of GABA in the brain, which is a calming brain chemical. In a Swedish study it found that taking 200mg before bed relieved insomnia in more than 80% of the women in the study.

Turmeric - A new study by Columbia University showed that eating this curry spice can prevent Type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient, Cur cumin, improves glucose and blood sugar levels and reduces the inflammation in the fat and liver cells that can trigger the disease. It also causes weight and fat loss without dieting. To get the benefit, just add a pinch of turmeric to your food each day. It is better absorbed when you eat it in the same meal with black pepper.

Shankhpushpi - (shank-a-push-pee) is a flowering plant that has been used for centuries in India to boost focus and ease anxiety. It works by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the bloodstream. It improves energy up to 91% and concentration up to 70% within 6 weeks. It helps induce sleep an decrease nervousness about as well as Valium. Recommended dose is two 275mg capsules daily.

Mangosteen - The dark rind of the Mangosteen is loaded with xanthones, antioxidants that lower cholesterol, block cell inflammation and kill bacteria. They are being studied as a cancer cure. Try mangosteen juice or take one 500 mg capsule daily.