Withania somniferum / Ashwagandha / Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandha, Kanaje Hindi and Samm Al Ferakh

Description

Ashwagandha has a long history of use in India where it grows in altitudes up to 5500 feet, and where there are rainy seasons divided by dry ones. It has been used both in Folk medicine and in Ayurveda, the system of traditional medicine native to India.(1)(4) In Ayurveda it is considered a "Rayasana" herb which is said to improve overall health and increase longevity and vitality.
It's most commonly used name "Ashwagandha" means "horse's smell" in Sanskrit and refers to the smell of the herb however in Ayurvedi texts it is also said to give the strength and sexual vigor of a horse to a man. (11) Some refer to Ashwagandha as "Indian ginseng" since its use in Ayurvedic medicine resembles how Panax ginseng is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Contents

Ashwagandha contains several alkaloids and steroidal lactones. The most common alkaloids are withanine, anaferin, anahygrine, cuscohygrine, pseudotropine, somniferinine, somniferiene, tropanol, pseudo-tropine, 3-a-gloyloxytropane and choline. Ashwagandha also contains steroidal lactones including withaferin A and withanolides (A-Y). Much of Ashwagandha's pharmacological properties has been attributed to two withaloides, withaferin A and withanolide D. (1)(6)

Historical

Withania somnifera is a herb that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda and folk medicine in India. "It is most commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, fever, tumors, and a wide range of infectious diseases." (4) It is also used as an "aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, liver-tonic".(6) "It has been used in rheumatism, consumption and debility".(11) The specific name "somnifera" refers to its sedative qualities and literally means "sleep inducer".

Recent studies have shown that Ashwagandha contains compounds known as withanolides that are steroidal in molecular construction and are similar to compounds found in Panax ginseng. It is for this reason that Ashwagandha has earned the nickname "Indian Ginseng" by some. Not surprisingly, Ashwagandha also shares many qualities with Panax ginseng and has been shown to "increase energy levels, improve overall health, improve the body's resistance to stress and stimulate the immune system".(5)(6)(7) It has also been shown to "help support good cognitive performance and memory while also calming the mind".(6)(7)(8)

Its rejuvenating properties are now being confirmed by scientific studies. According to a double-blind clinical trial on males between 50-59 years old "A significant improvement in hemoglobin, red blood cell count, hair melanin, and seated stature was observed" and "71.4 percent reported improvement in sexual performance".(6)

Several other studies have indicated that Ashwagandha may also have important anti-carcinogenic properties. One such study found that "A significant increase in the life span and a decrease in the cancer cell number and tumour weight were noted in the tumour-induced mice after treatment with REMS (Ashwangandha extract)".(10)

Plant Description

Withania somnifera is an evergreen, erect, woody shrub that reaches up to 170 cm in height. Its leaves are simple, petiolate, ovate and glabrous and the whole body of the plant is covered in star shaped hairs. (11) It grows in the subtropical parts of India and also in parts of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Spain, Afghanistan and many parts of Africa. Its fruit which are berry like and bright red are usually harvested in the Fall and its flowers are greenish or bright yellow in color. (1)(3)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Norway

References

(1) Withania somnifera, Wikipedia
(2) Herbal Medicine and Botanical Medical Fads, Frank W. Hoffmann, Martin Manning
(3) The 5-minute Herb and Dietary Supplement Consult, Adriane Fugh-Berman
(4) The New Anti-aging Revolution, Ronald Klatz, Robert Klatz, Robert Goldman
(5) Document: NL E116-0-REF
(6) Document: Withania somnifera, Alternative Medicine Review
(7) The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, first edition part I, Government of India, Ministry Of Health And Family Welfare, Department of Indian Systems of Medicine & Homoeopathy
(8) Document: NL-E76-0-REF Ashwagandha
(9) Withanolides potentiate apoptosis, inhibit invasion, and abolish osteoclastogenesis through suppression of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation and NF-kappaB-regulated gene expression, Ichikawa H, Takada Y, Shishodia S, Jayaprakasam B, Nair MG, Aggarwal BB.
(10) Anticarcinogenic activity of Withania somnifera Dunal against Dalton’s Ascitic Lymphoma, A. J. M. Christina, D. Gladwin Joseph, M. Packialakshmi, R. Kothai, S. Jerry Heison Robert, N. Chidambaranathan and M. Ramasamy
(11) Rayasana, Harbans Singh Puri

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Calcium Hydroxide / Edible Lime

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Edible lime, Hydrated lime, Calcium hydroxide, CaH2O2.

Description

Hydrated lime is a dry powder obtained by treating quicklime with sufficient water to satisfy its chemical affinity for water, thereby converting the oxides to hydroxides. Hydrated lime, though only slightly soluble in water, forms suspensions easily; the resulting solution and suspension is strongly alkaline, possessing a pH of 12.4. Traditionally, lime is used in different parts of the world because of its alkaline properties: for example in the Betelnut (Areca catechu) quid, as an essential additive for chewing Coca, or as an ingredient of the famous South-American Yopo (Anadenanthera sp.) snuff-powders.

Health Warnings

Precaution to be taken in handling and storage: Store in a cool, dry location. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Handle with care.
Skin contact: May cause irritation, particular on damp skin. Repeated or prolonged contact could lead to dermatitis. Wash affected area with mild soap and water.
Inhalation: Over exposure may produce irritation of the mucous membranes, nose, throat, coughing and shortness of breath.
Eye Contact: Flush immediately with large amounts of water, lifting the lower and upper lids occasionally. Seek medical help.

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Yopo (Anadenanthera colubrina)
Betelnut (Areca catechu)
Ph indicators (Ph indicators)

Calcium Hydroxide / Edible Lime

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Edible lime, Hydrated lime, Calcium hydroxide, CaH2O2.

Description

Hydrated lime is a dry powder obtained by treating quicklime with sufficient water to satisfy its chemical affinity for water, thereby converting the oxides to hydroxides. Hydrated lime, though only slightly soluble in water, forms suspensions easily; the resulting solution and suspension is strongly alkaline, possessing a pH of 12.4. Traditionally, lime is used in different parts of the world because of its alkaline properties: for example in the Betelnut (Areca catechu) quid, as an essential additive for chewing Coca, or as an ingredient of the famous South-American Yopo (Anadenanthera sp.) snuff-powders.

Health Warnings

Precaution to be taken in handling and storage: Store in a cool, dry location. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Handle with care.
Skin contact: May cause irritation, particular on damp skin. Repeated or prolonged contact could lead to dermatitis. Wash affected area with mild soap and water.
Inhalation: Over exposure may produce irritation of the mucous membranes, nose, throat, coughing and shortness of breath.
Eye Contact: Flush immediately with large amounts of water, lifting the lower and upper lids occasionally. Seek medical help.

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Yopo (Anadenanthera colubrina)
Betelnut (Areca catechu)
Ph indicators (Ph indicators)

Electronic Mantra Box

Description

This 220 volts Mantra box, also called "the Indian Ipod", plays 6 different sacred chants, non stop. A masterpiece of electronic simplicity, for meditation and spiritual relaxation. Specifications: 220 volts 2-Pin EU power cable, internal loudspeaker, mantra selection switch, on-off/volume knob, reset button. Colour: white, decorated with a picture of Shiva. Wall mountable. Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 15 cm, weight approximately 650 gram including printed cardboard box. Produced by "Jeel Electronics", Mumbai, India.

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Mantra
Shiva

Boswelia carteri / Frankincense / Burseraceae (Copal family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Bible Frankincense, Olibanum, Olibano, Boswellia carteri, Boswellia carterii, Boswellia, Encens, Frankincense, Gum Thus, Incienso, Weihrauch, Wierook.

Description

The word "incense", meaning originally "the aroma given off with the smoke of any odoriferous substance when burnt", has been gradually restricted almost exclusively to Frankincense, also known as Olibanum. Frankincense has always been obtainable in Europe in greater quantity than any other of the aromatics imported from the East. The botanical origin of Frankincense is Boswelia carteri, although other Boswelia species are used as a source of Frankincense. In use for over 5000 years, this fragrant desert resin has been prized by many cultures around the world for its therapeutic and spiritual properties. Frankincense has become the most important ingredient of incense used in the catholic church.

Scent

Frankincense its haunting fragrance has been characterized as fresh, sweet, woody, balsamic, slightly spicy and fruity. Perfume-note: Base.

Aromatic Properties

Frankincense preserves spiritual energy, is an enhancement for meditation, and can help to maintain a clear mind. It is still used ritually in the catholic church during religious ceremonies for devotional cleansing and purification of the soul. It was an important ingredient in the preservation of the bodies of the pharaohs. An important oil for anointing the dead and dying, for assisting in transition and keeping the soul connected to its divine essence. It is excellent for the sixth chakra, assisting in altering perception of truth and promoting clairvoyance. Due to its relaxing effect on the nervous system, the fragrance of Frankincense incense or oil can help against inner anxiety, improve concentration and help slow down and deepen the breath during meditation. It has also been known to promote a restful sleep. It is soothing and calming the mind. Recommended for meditation, prayer and increasing perception and consciousness. Frankincense helps to connect to the deepest, most divine, part of ourselves. It has been used in baths with intention to wash away unwanted feelings and energies.

Contents

Frankincense contains resins, a volatile oil, water-soluble gum, bassorin, and plant residues. The resins are composed of boswellic acid and alibanoresin. It contains monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. The major components are duva-3,9,13-trien-1,5alpha-diol-1-acetate, octyl acetate, o-methyl anisole, naphthalene decahydro-1,1,4a-trimethyl-6-methylene-5-(3-methyl-2-pentenyl), thunbergol, phenanthrene-7-ethenyl-1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,8,9,10,10a-dodecahydro-1,1,4a,7-tetramethyl, alpha-pinene, sclarene, 9-cis-retinal, octyl formate, verticiol, decyl acetate, and n-octanol. Further limonene, borneol, farnesol, myrcene have been found.

Synergic Combinations

Frankincense blends well with Basil, Benzoin, Geranium, Myrrh, Orange, Bergamot, Lemon, Black Pepper, Grapefruit, Lavender, Melissa, Patchouli, Pine, and Sandalwood.

Historical

Frankincense was one of the most highly praised substances of the ancient world. It was traditionally produced in Yemen and Oman, and by 1000 BC, Frankincense was already a rare and important product. Babylon, Assyria, Egypt, Rome, Greece, and China, all made use of this resin. The oldest written record of incense was found in the tomb of queen Hathsepsut from the 15th century BC. Frankincense was an important trade product, and Plinius the Elder wrote that control of the Frankincense trade had made the south Arabians the richest people on earth. For this reason, the Romans later tried to conquer the Frankincense producing regions, but they did not succeed. In those days, Frankincense was more precious than gold. Frankincense is also named "Olibanum", derived from "Al Luban", the Arabic word for milk.
The kohl, or black powder with which the Egyptian women paint their eyelids, is made of charred Frankincense, or other odoriferous resins mixed with Frankincense. It is also melted to make a depilatory, and it is made into a paste with other ingredients to perfume the hands. A similar practice is described by Herodotus as having been practiced by the women of Scythia and is alluded to in Judith x. 3 and 4. In cold weather, the Egyptians warm their rooms with a brazier whereon incense is burnt, Frankincense, Benzoin and Aloe wood being chiefly used for the purpose.
The ceremonial incense of the Jews was compounded of four "sweet scents", of which pure Frankincense was one, pounded together in equal proportion. It is frequently mentioned in the Pentateuch. Pure Frankincense formed part of the meet offering and was also presented with the shew-bread every Sabbath day. With other spices, it was stored in a great chamber of the House of God at Jerusalem. According to Herodotus, Frankincense to the amount of 1000 talents weight was offered every year, during the feast of Bel, on the great altar of his temple in Babylon. The religious use of incense was as common in ancient Persia as in Babylon and Assyria, and the modern Parsis of Western India still preserve the ritual of incense.
Frankincense became the most important incense burned in catholic churches around the world. Of course, Frankincense played an important role in catholic history. It is said that the three wise men who travelled to Bethlehem to worship the newborn child, Jezus, had with them three gifts: Gold, Myrrh and Frankincense.

Plant Description

Native to the Red Sea regions and growing wild throughout North East Africa, Frankincense is produced mainly in Somalia, China and South Arabia and to a lesser extent India. Boswellia is a small tree or shrub with abundant pinnate leaves and white or pale pink flowers. The plant has a distinctive woody, spicy aroma with a hint of lemon. From this leafy forest tree Frankincense, a natural oleo gum, is obtained by making deep incisions in the trunk and collecting the gum given off. This gum, the Frankincense, soon solidifies into tear-shaped amber to orange brown lumps about 1 to 4cm. The clear lumps are gathered first. The portion which has run down the side of the tree or has fallen to the ground, constitutes an inferior sort. The season for gathering lasts from May till the middle of September, when the first shower of rain puts a close to the gathering for that year.

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Myrrh and Franckincense

Hydrocotyle asiatica / Hydrocotyle / Umbelliferae (Carrot family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Bevilacqua, Brahmamanduki, Brahmi, Centelase, Centella asiatica, Chi-hsueh Ts'ao, Gotu Kola, Hydrocotyle , Indian pennywort, Kaki kuda, Khulakudi, Luei gong gen, Madecassol, Man t'ien hsing, Marsh penny, Nandukparni, Sheep rot, Thankuni, Tsubo kusa, Water pennywort, White rot.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Norway