Beet root (Beta vulgaris)*

Beets are a superb source of minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium) as well as anthocyanin flavonoids and carotenoids. Beets act as a cholagogue, mild laxative and liver tonic.

Chickweed fresh herb (Stellaria media)*

A mild food herb that is a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and vulnerary. Internally it is used for urinary irritation including interstitial cystitis as well as gastritis and gastric and duodenal ulcers. Topically Chickweed is utilized for inflammatory skin and mucus membrane conditions, to relieve itching and for erosion of the cervix.

Stinging Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica)*

Stinging Nettle is widely known for the rash it causes when fresh. Once dry it becomes a highly nutritious herbal food rich in iron, magnesium, calcium, boron and beta carotene appropriate for treatment of “deficient blood” i.e. anemia and low hematocrit during pregnancy. A mild non-irritating diuretic, it is a “kidney food” strengthening function and tonus of the organ. Stinging Nettle is commonly used for kidney pain caused by nephritis, especially with hematuria.

Yellow Dock fresh root (Rumex crispus)*

Indicated for chronic skin problems i.e. psoriasis, eczema and acne especially with excessive oily secretions. Yellow Dock is a cholagogue used for liver and gall bladder insufficiency, constipation and jaundice. It also increases the liver’s ability to store iron.

Watercress fresh herb (Nasturtium officinale)*

An aquatic plant and a nutritional powerhouse: a rich source of carotenoids, minerals, Vitamin C and antibacterial mustard oils. Watercress is a cholagogue, stimulating liver and gall bladder function and activity. It is used for stagnant liver qi, biliousness and poor fat metabolism. Watercress also strengthens the lungs and acts as an antiseptic expectorant and antiasthmatic.

Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera)*

A traditional Ayurvedic medicinal plant considered one of the best tonic remedies of India. It is a calming adaptogen and nervine used to reduce stress, stimulate libido and male and female reproductive functioning. It also acts as an antispasmodic and along with Black Cohosh, Kava and Wood Betony is specific for fibromyalgia pain. Clinical studies of Ashwagandha show that it can improve red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels, reduce fatigue and improve other symptoms of anemia.

Blackstrap Molasses

An old time “blood tonic.” Rich in minerals especially iron, it also adds a pleasant flavor to this formula.

Bibliography:

Anonymous  Withania somnifera, European Journal of Herbal Medicine, 1998, vol. 4 (2), pp17-22

Bartram, T.  Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, Grace Pub., 1995

Valnet, J., MD  Organic Garden Medicine, Erbonia Books, 1975