Herbs and Supplements Starting With The Letter
~ B ~
B1, Vitamin
Thiamine
Vitamin B1 has positive effects on the nervous system, mental well being, skin, eyes, and hair. Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin that the body uses to process carbohydrates, fat, and proteins. It is considered an "anti-stress" vitamin because it is believed to enhance the activity of the immune system and improve the body's ability to withstand stressful conditions. It may also enhance circulation, help with blood formation, and other metabolic processes.
B2, Vitamin
Riboflavin
Vitamin B2 nourishes skin, nails, hair, growth, reproduction and vision. The body needs more of this nutrient during stress situations. Unlike other B vitamins, riboflavin is not found in many foods, so the most common cause of deficiency is lack of dietary intake, especially in the elderly. Symptoms of riboflavin deficiency include fatigue; slowed growth; digestive problems; cracks and sores around the corners of the mouth; swollen magenta tongue; eye fatigue; soreness of the lips, mouth and tongue; and sensitivity to light. Riboflavin is an important nutrient in the prevention of headache and some visual disturbances, particularly cataracts. Riboflavin plays a crucial role in certain metabolic reactions, particularly the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar, which is "burned" to produce energy. It also works as an antioxidant by scavenging damaging particles in the body known as free radicals.
B3, Vitamin
Niacin
Niacin, vitamin B3, is required for a broad range of body functions including the release of energy from foods, the maintenance of the body’s hormone control systems, tissue repair, and nervous system function. Nicotinic acid supplements have been used to reduce blood cholesterol levels and protect against recurrent heart attacks. Niacinamide is a related chemical but is not effective for circulatory problems or elevated cholesterol.
B6, Vitamin
Pyridoxine HCL
Vitamin B6 is necessary to metabolize B12 in the body. It helps the body release excess water and nourishes the nervous system. Vitamin B6 is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin in the blood and also normalizes blood glucose levels. Research has also suggested that the vitamin may play a key role in treating autism, heart disease, premenstrual pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, and a many other conditions such as anemia, osteoporosis and nervous system disorder.
B12, Vitamin
Cyanocobalamin
Vitamin B12 is used in the production of energy and it nourishes the nervous system. It is an especially important vitamin for healthy bone marrow (where blood cells are formed) and the nervous system. The most important use of vitamin B12 is to improve the symptoms of pernicious anemia. These symptoms include weakness, pallor, and neurologic symptoms such as burning or prickling of the hands and feet, loss of balance, confusion, loss of memory, and moodiness. It helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is needed DNA the genetic material in the cells.
Barley Juice
Hordeum vulgare
A very nutritious supplement that gives quick energy, providing 30 times more B1 and calcium than milk, 7 times more vitamin C than oranges, and 5 times the iron of spinach. Barley juice is also high in amino acids (protein) and many minerals. Barley greens are also a superior source of chlorophyll, the nutrient-rich by-product of photosynthesis, which makes plants green.
Barberry
Berberis vulgaris
Historically, barberry was used by the North American Indians for treating the liver, and was found to be effective in cases of jaundice. Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps remove toxins from the bowels.
Bayberry
Myrica cerifera
Bayberry bark is an important stimulating tonic and astringent herb. It helps tighten tissues including the organs, skin and digestive tract. Bayberry has an antibacterial action as well, that makes it good for treating minor infections. It can be made into a tea or diluted tincture for topical use or as a gargle. The tea has also been used as a douche for various minor female problems. It is contraindicated for active inflammations.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is nutritionally complete. It is one-third protein, containing 22 amino acids and 27 mineral salts, as well as many vitamins. Bee pollen is often used by athletes to improve energy. Extra energy is also required when recovering from illness or debility. Bee pollen is also used to improve immunity and reduce sensitivity to many outdoor allergens. About 1 in 200 people are allergic to bee pollen.
Bentonite, Hydrated
This colon cleanser absorbs and removes toxins from the intestinal tract. It can also be used externally to absorb toxins and excess oil from skin pores.
Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is a substance from plants that the body converts into vitamin A. It acts as an antioxidant and an immune system booster. The body can store beta-carotene much better than it can store vitamin A. Beta-carotene does not have the risk of toxicity in large amounts that vitamin A does. Large amounts can color the skin yellow, but this is harmless.
Bilberry
Vaccinium myrtillus
This potent antioxidant is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to neutralize free radicals in brain tissue and other nerve tissue, including the eyes. Bilberry helps improve night vision. Other benefits for the eyes include reduced eye irritation from smog, light sensitivity, and help for macular degeneration. Although vision will often improve during the first two weeks, continued use over time is needed for the greatest benefit. Bilberry also strengthens blood vessels and capillaries to help with easy bruising and varicose veins. Another important use is to help diabetics regulate blood sugar.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are nutrients, which are related to the Vitamin C family. They cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore must be obtained from food or supplements. Bioflavonoids are helpful in nourishing the integrity and strength of capillaries and cells.
Biotin
Biotin assists in the metabolism of fat and protein, and nourishes the muscles in the body.
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa
Black cohosh root is a bitter astringent that has been used for bites and stings. Black cohosh has estrogenic effects. It stimulates uterine contractions, acting as an aid in childbirth. It is a sedative and central nervous system tonic. It is used in arthritis, sedative, pain, and female tonic formulas; it is particularly effective for menopausal depression. Do not use during pregnancy - stimulates menstrual flow and tones the uterus. It contains a gastric irritant that may cause nausea or headaches if too much is used.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's ability to manufacture hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins, which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Black Walnut
Juglans nigra
Black walnut is a rich source of important trace minerals such as iodine, manganese and chromium. It is used to rid the bowel of parasites such as tapeworms. It is also used as an antifungal in cases of candida yeast, ringworm, athlete's foot and thrush. Tropical travelers take black walnut frequently to head-off "Montezuma's Revenge". It can be used to treat skin reactions to poison oak and other skin problems including eczema, psoriasis, canker sores, boils and impetigo.
Blessed Thistle
Cnicus benedictus
Blessed Thistle is regarded as an excellent appetite stimulant, and is used in the manufacture of "bitters" to be taken before meals to stimulate stomach and intestinal activity, and aid in digestion and circulation. It is also used in the treatment of constipation and flatulence, and is considered an excellent heart tonic and blood purifier. Blessed thistle is often used to treat of a variety of liver problems, such as jaundice and hepatitis. Because painful menstruation can involve the liver, Blessed thistle is a common component of herbal formulas used to relieve menstrual symptoms.
Blue Cohosh
Caulophyllum tatlictroides
Blue cohosh root has also been known as papoose root, squaw root, yellow ginseng and blue ginseng. It is used to regulate menstruation, menstrual pain and delayed menstruation. It also relieves many kinds of muscle cramps and spasms. It can increase perspiration and urine production. For the last month of pregnancy, it is used to stop early false labor, and is used at the start of labor to insure easier dilation and birth.
Blue Vervain
Verbena hastata
Blue vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the organisms that can promote the flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic, which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by stimulating perspiration. Blue vervain is an alternative to Lobelia.
Boneset
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Boneset stimulates the immune system's white blood cells to destroy microorganisms more effectively. Boneset has also been recommended to produce sweating and may also be used to help clear the upper respiratory tract of mucous congestion.
Boron
Boron aids in the proper metabolism of vitamins and minerals involved with bone development, such as calcium, copper, magnesium and vitamin D. In addition, boron appears to affect estrogen and possibly testosterone as well, hormones that affect bone health.
Buchu
Agathosma Betulina
Employed as a diuretic and antiseptic, buchu is use in the treatment of inflammation of the urethra, blood in the urine, bladder infections and other chronic urinary tract disorders. It is also said to be an effective remedy for kidney stones, cystitis, and rheumatism.
Bugleweed
Lycopus virginicus
Historically, bugleweed was used to treat coughs and as a sedative. Today, the main use of this herb is for treating mild hyperthyroidism where it is often combined with other herbs (including lemon balm and gromwell) used to treat mildly overactive thyroid function. Bugleweed is reported to be effective at arresting internal bleeding and has been successful in working to control excessive menstruation.
Burdock
Articum lappa
Historically, burdock has been used to purify the blood, to treat gout and ulcers, arthritis, rheumatism, and help with skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. In India and Russia, the root has been used as a popular anti-cancer remedy, and in China it is believed to be an effective aphrodisiac, useful in treating impotence and sterility. Burdock is an effective diuretic, a mild laxative, and aids in the elimination of uric acid.
Butcher's Broom
Ruscus Aculeatus
Butcher's broom root is one of the most potent remedies for a wide spectrum of circulatory ailments ranging from thrombosis and phlebitis, to varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It strengthens tissues, tightens veins and capillaries, and reduces clotting by thinning the blood. Butcher’s broom is also used to clean the liver and kidneys.
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This information is provided for educational purposes only.
The descriptions of nurtritional supplements are based on the historical usage of the various ingredients. They are not intended to promote any direct or implied health claims, and actual results of usage can vary.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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