astragalus

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is primarily considered a tonic for enhancing metabolism and digestion and is taken as a tea or soup made from the (usually dried) roots of the plant - or a tincture.

astragalus has antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. it is an adaptoge, meaning it helps protect the body against various stresses, including physical, mental, or emotional stress. it protects and supports the immune system and helps the body fight against disease. astragalus contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage caused by free radicals, byproducts of cellular energy. astragalus has antiviral properties and is helpful with preventing colds.

i currently have k.c. on astragalus - and thought i would make my own tincture this time.

so much lavender... not enough thyme

i haven't posted much lately. still taking care of k.c. the docs want to start her on steroids for osteoarthritis - and a few days ago i got yucca concentrate. the bottle does not say what kind, but yucca plants are members of the lily family (Liliaceae). it contains steroidal saponins which are nature's most powerful anti-inflammatory.

found this on saponins: saponins, precursors of cortisone, which prevent the release of toxins from the intestines that restrict normal cartilage formation. saponins are produced naturally in the body by the adrenal glands. found to treat: skin lesions, sprains, inflammation, bleeding, osteoarthrits, rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, colitis, ulcers, gout, bursitis, hypertension, high cholesterol, liver and kidney disorders.

so - i am going to try it to see how she responds. she is still on burdock (Arctium lappa) and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus). more on that in the post - 'k.c. - january 13, 2010'.

in the meantime - everything keeps growing - i have so much lavender (Lavendula dentata) - i don't know what to do with it. so i harvested some today - and i am drying it for future use. i already have a lavender tincture made - 'lavender tincture - october 21, 2009' - so i am making a quick lavender infusion today.

k.c. :)

this is my doggy, k.c. - stands for 'kinda cute' - but i think she is really cute. k.c. just had a huge tumor removed. it had completely taken over one of her kidneys - and was as large as a grapefruit. the biopsy showed there were cancer cells present - but the doctor also removed a close by lymph node - and it was clean. she is recovering amazingly from the surgery for a 14 year old puppy - and i will monitor her every few months with xrays. i started researching and reading and researching. i got a book that specifically deals with herbs for pets and put together this regimen for k.c.. my thought was - cleanse - and strengthen ! i didn't have time to make these tinctures - so i purchased them to get her started immediately.

burdock (Arctium lappa) - a blood purifier. it helps the kidneys filter out impurities from the blood very quickly. clears congestion in respiratory, lymphatic, urinary and circulatory systems. releases water retention, stimulates digestion, aids kidney, liver and gallbladder function.

dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) - used for the treatment of the gall bladder, kidney and urinary disorders. strengthens the kidneys. an infusion of the root encourages the steady elimination of toxins from the body.

red clover (Trifolium pratense) - purifies the blood by acting as a diuretic (helping the body get rid of excess fluid) and expectorant (helping clear lungs of mucous), improving circulation, and helping cleanse the liver.

astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) - improves depressed immunity, recommended for the treatment of AIDS and other viral diseases, and as an adjuvant in cancer therapy. helps strengthen the body against disease. helps protect the body against various stresses, including physical, mental, or emotional stress. protects the body from diseases such as cancer and diabetes. contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage caused by free radicals, byproducts of cellular energy. protects the liver.

milk thistle (Silybum marianum) - protects the liver from a variety of harmful substances. prevents toxins from penetrating the interior of liver cells, while promoting the growth of healthy new cells to repair liver damage. has a renewing effect on the kidneys.

i have her taking .5ml twice a day. i am mixing the tinctures into healthful raw wet food.

one dropper full of tincture is approx. 30 drops which is 1ml. - so half a dropper full twice a day.

although this is all new to me - i am feeling really confident in what she is taking and truly believe in the power and medicinal value of these herbs. i know i am helping her to keep as healthy as possible at this time  :)