Herbal hucksters tout this shrub as an aphrodisiac, particulary for women. Its reputation is solidly established from centuries of use in Mexico and the southwestern United States, wheredamiana grows wild.

Damiana's power to perk up a lazy libido has never been validated, but there is encouraging anecdotal evidence. Extracts do display some antibacterial action and have helped lower blood sugar. Daminia can also help with Anxiety, asthma, bed-wetting, constipation, colds, depression, diabetes, headaches, kidney inflammation, menstrual irregularities, and indigestion.

Blame (or thank) our early European settlers for bringing the dandelion to North America. Native Americans welcomed it readily for all sorts of uses. The roots can be dried, ground up, and brewed like coffee; the leaves eaten in salads; and the flowers make a nice wine. Dandelion actully is a very good source of nourishment and natural medicine.

The leaves provide vitamins A and C; theflowers are one of the plant world's better sources of lecithin, a nutrient that elevates the brain's acetylcholine and may play a role in stemming Alzheimer's disease. Lecithin is also good for liver problems, and the plant is a time honored treatment for jaundice and other hepatic complaints. Don't neglect dandelion if your worried about osteoporosis.It's a great source of three bone-building nutrients: boron, calcium, and silicon.

This shrublike vine has a long history of use in southern Africa, where it is indigenous. The bitter roots have been eaten, drunk as both tea and tonic, and made into a topical ointment. The plants large, claw-shaped fruit gives rise to it's name.

Harpagoside and other phytochemicals in devil's claw have been studied extensively, notably for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular effects.Research confirms that plant extracts quell inflammation, stabilize heart rhythm, and stimulate appetite. Devil's Claw also helps with Backache, gallbladder problems, liver problems, childbirth, cancer, fibrostis, and gout.

In Chinese medicine, only ginsing is more highly prized and esteemed, and Dong Quai, also called Chinese angelica, is commonly used for health complaints unique to women. At least nine other species of angelica, part of the parsley family, exist. They possess different medicinal traits, but the sinesis variant is the most valued.

Dong Quai roots are little phytochemical pharmacies. Thephytoestrogens work whether the body's natural estrogen concentration needs to be supplemented or constrained, making it a good treatment for a whole spectrum of female health problems, including menstrual disorders, PMS, menopausal symptoms, and uterine cramps.

Other uses are Liver toxicity, kidney disease, nerve pain, high blood pressure, palpitations, stroke, and infertility.