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SAFFRON - Crocus sativus.

Ruled by Sun. As costly as gold, Saffron has been highly valued since ancient times as one of the most sublime medicine/food substances in the world. In Ayurveda, Saffron is considered pure Sattva, the element of spirit and etheric energy, and it is held in high esteem as an aid to meditation, devotion, and spiritual development. It is also considered the best purifying herb, clearing the subtle channels of the etheric body, as well as eliminating toxic buildup in the physical body. It is used as a rejuvenative of the blood, metabolism, and entire body, and also acts as a catalyst to any other course of therapy with which it is combined. It is said to promote the assimilation of food into deep tissues, and also to stimulate new tissue growth, especially in the female reproductive system. Modern research has shown that saffron helps the body to regulate lactic and uric acids, and keeps these acids from building up because of muscle strain or injury, or some types of arthritis and gout. Additionally, it is considered one of the best anti-inflammatories, thus helping with symptomatic relief in these cases as well. It is also a natural source of hydrochloric acid, and so is tonic to the digestion. Also available as a Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, very useful as a mental and spiritual purifier, stimulant to the flow of Chi, and general vitality tonic. Item #1044. $15.95

SAGE - Salvia officinalis.

Ruled by Mercury. Sage is most often used for decreasing secretions, such as excessive sweating, saliva, and mother’s milk during weaning. It has some hormonal-balancing qualities, used mostly during menopause, and its drying action can help with the night sweats that occur during hot flashes. Sage is also considered highly antiseptic and antibiotic, and is recommended at the first sign of respiratory, throat, or sinus infections, its expectorant . The essential oils in Sage are classified as anti-spasmodic, and are especially soothing to the digestive tract. This, coupled with its bitter components which are stimulant to digestion, make Sage of potential benefit in many types of indigestion and stomach upset, such as colic, nausea, diarrhea, colitis, and gas. Item #0028. $15.95

ST. JOHN’S WORT - Hypericum perforatum.

Ruled by Sun. A suddenly popular herb, used for all types of psychological disorders to elevate mood, relieve tension, and generally improve emotional well-being. The relaxing effects of St. John’s Wort seem to have a strong intelligence, traveling to the stressed tissues in the body, soothing the membranes and increasing the blood flow and tone of the area, while at the same time slightly stimulating the heart. In addition to being helpful in both depression and hypertension, these actions are often effective for treating uterine disorders and nerve-related problems, such as fybromyalgia or chronic fatigue. St. John’s Wort is also used to soothe and heal damaged skin, and as a systemic antibiotic and antibacterial, and some experiments have shown it to have inhibitory effects on the binding of HIV cells to human cells, as well as rendering AIDS non-infective in vitro, and inhibiting the spread of AIDS through cells in patients. Caution: Patients already taking medication for depression or psychiatric disorders should consult a qualified physician before taking St. John’s Wort, as potentially fatal reactions can occur. Additionally, St. John’s Wort can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight and increased risk of sunburn, especially in fair-skinned people. The other side of this is that the active constituent, hypericin, accumulates just under the skin and may need some sun exposure to be medically beneficial. Patients taking St. John’s Wort who spend too much time in the sun risk skin damage at a faster rate than they may have experienced in the past, but if sun exposure is avoided entirely, the helpful effects may be diminished or lost. Physician and patient should work together to find a happy medium. Item #0043. $15.95

SARSAPARILLA - Smilax officinalis.

Ruled by Venus. Used for its antibiotic and antiseptic qualities in cases of toxicity of the blood which result in skin problems, such as acne, ringworm, psoriasis, and even more serious systemic problems which erupt at the skin, such as herpes or syphilis. This is due to Sarsaparilla’s content of cortico-steroids and natural plant sulfur. It is also very effective at removing heavy metals and nitrogen-based waste, such as uric acid, which can be factors in some arthritis. Sarsaparilla has a balanced makeup of male, female, and neutral hormones, and is useful in gland-balancing formulas for either men or women. Some research has indicated that Sarsaparilla’s beneficial effects collect in the nerve fibers and tissues, and so may be helpful in hardening of these tissues from Multiple Sclerosis. Item #0035. $15.95

SAW PALMETTO - Serenoa repens.

Ruled by Venus. A tonic to the male reproductive and urinary system which has recently become very popular. Many prostate problems are connected to levels of dihydrotestosterone, which causes cells in the prostate to over-multiply, resulting in inflammation, blockage, symptoms of frequent and uncomfortable urination, and even rupture. Research indicates that Saw Palmetto inhibits the production of dihydrotestosterone in the body, which can very effectively prevent or reverse prostate problems. Saw Palmetto is also a tonic to the bladder muscles, as well as a tonic to the reproductive organs in either sex, by increasing blood flow to the area. In addition, farmers in areas where it grows have used Saw Palmetto to fatten cattle, as it improves digestion and increases absorption of nutrients from food. Item #0036. $15.95

SCHIZANDRA - Schizandra chinensis.

Ruled by Sun. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, Schizandra is valued as a tonic, adaptogen, immune-booster, and to increase vitality and stamina. In one study, racehorses given Schizandra extract reduced their 800-meter time by a competitive advantage of six lengths, and also recovered much more quickly after exertion. In China, Schizandra is valued by women as a restorative to youth, sexual vitality, and energy, and by both sexes as a protective against all types of stress and fatigue. Item #1047. $15.95

SHEPHERD’S PURSE - Capsella bursa-pastoris.

Ruled by Saturn. Shepherd’s Purse is a very strong astringent herb, used for all types of excessive or unwanted fluid discharge, such as bleeding, internal or external, excessive menstruation, diarrhea, bedwetting, or hemorrhoids. It is also highly valued for cases of post-birth hemorrhage, as it seems to create an “hourglass effect” in the female organs, closing off any blood flow at the base of the uterus. It can be overly astringent, so use with care, perhaps in conjunction with soothing demulcent herbs. It can so overly astringe as to leave the patient unable to urinate, so watch for that symptom and reduce the dosage as needed. Item #0073. $15.95

Shilajit – Asphaltum.

Ruled by Sun. The Ayurvedic medicine Shilajit is a mineral pitch or resin, found oozing from the rocks in the Himalayas during the summer months. It is believed to be from the decay of the plants of the mountains, pressed through the rocks over time. It is very high in minerals, particularly iron, and also contains benzoic acid, which gives it a peculiar resin/incense flavor. According to Ayurveda, there is hardly any imbalance which is not helped by Shilajit, either used alone or in conjunction with specific herbs to direct its healing action. It is especially recommended in debility, fatigue, and lack of vitality, and is deeply nourishing to the whole body. Shilajit is purifying to all body systems, cleansing the digestive tract, lungs, liver, kidneys, urinary tract, skin, etc. It stimulates the purification of these areas, and also acts as an antiseptic and disinfectant, used for fungal, yeast and other pathogenic or infectious conditions. Shilajit is also a diuretic and anti-spasmodic, used for prostate disorders. In modern Ayurveda, it is used to regulate uric acid in rheumatoid arthritis, and also to balance cholesterol and blood sugar, and for healthy weight loss. Like many Ayurvedic tonics, Shilajit is often used with other herbs to direct its action. For nervous system debility or mental disturbance, it is used with Jatamansi, an Indian form of Valerian very much like our Northwestern type described above. For sexual debility, Shilajit is combined with Ashwagandha, and for chronic digestive imbalance, it is used with Triphala. Item #1142. $15.95

SIBERIAN GINSENG - Eleutherococcus senticosus.

Ruled by Sun. Although not botanically a Ginseng, Siberian Ginseng has many of the same beneficial effects as Panax Ginseng, but is more gentle in its action, and therefore more suitable to those who might be overwhelmed by Panax. There is no debate that Siberian Ginseng is suitable for women. Siberian Ginseng increases the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, and induces a feeling of well-being, helpful in treating both the causes & symptoms of chronic emotional stress. It has stronger nervine and calming properties than Panax, and helps lessen irritability, tension, and other nervous disorders, and greatly helps with insomnia. Also available as a Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, calming to the mind and emotions and suitable as a long-term tonic. Our Four Ginsengs Formula contains Chinese and Korean Panax, Siberian, and American Ginsengs. It is available as a very balanced Spagyric Essence for Physical Support, and a more stimulating Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, suitable for long-term use. Also see American Ginseng, available as a Spagyric Essence for Physical Support and a Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, and Panax (Chinese) Ginseng, available as a Spagyric Essence for Physical Support. Item #0048. $15.95

SUMA - Pfaffia paniculata.

Ruled by Sun. In Brazil, Suma is called “para todo”, meaning “for everything”, and its other name, “Brazilian Ginseng”, indicates its value as an adaptogen and overall tonic. Although not related to Ginseng, many of its uses are similar. Suma is used to increase energy, boost the immune system, regulate the hormonal system, balance blood sugar, and enhance vitality. It is currently being used with great promise for various immune-system malfunctions, such as AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, and Epstein-Barr virus. Some of the chemicals in Suma include cholesterol-lowering and heart protective agents, anti-oxidants, and an anti-tumor component. Suma is also used to increase sexual vitality and function, in both men and women. Particularly in men, Suma can be of great help in sexual function, and has been researched for low libido and erectile dysfunction. Even in healthy men, Suma often greatly increases stamina and duration of arousal. Also available as a Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, more stimulating and boosting to vitality, and for long-term tonic use. Item #1140. $15.95

SUNDEW – Drosera sp.

Ruled by Earth. A carnivorous plant of marsh and bog areas, Sundew’s use to dissolve warts and tumors was once thought to be because of its ability to digest proteins as part of its insect-eating lifestyle. This is certainly part of the action, but recent research suggests that Sundew also acts at a cellular level to correct the out of control cellular growth, and the incorrectly replicating DNA that is the root cause of warts and skin and other shallow-tissue cancerous tumors. Sundew is also used for coughs, of a dry, tickling, or explosive spasmodic nature where there is irritation and inflammation but little mucus. Also available as a Spagyric Magistery for Soul Level Balance, with very grounding and materializing energetic qualities. Item #0080. $15.95

TURMERIC – Curcuma longa.

Ruled by Jupiter. In ancient Indian texts, Turmeric was recommended to practitioners of Yoga as an aid to the better flow of energy through the joints, opening them so that greater flexibility can be achieved. Modern research strongly supports the use of Turmeric for the joints, pointing to a number of anti-inflammatory compounds as reasons for its great benefits to arthritis and other ailments of the joints, as well as many other conditions of inflammation. Turmeric is also strongly antioxidant, antiseptic, antibiotic, and preservative, hence its inclusion in curry. Unlike many antibiotic herbs which can kill beneficial bacteria, Turmeric is reputed to improve digestion and assimilation, and encourage the growth of the good digestive bacteria, while inhibiting the bad bacteria that can cause various digestive problems. It is also used to help the body properly digest proteins, and to correct the metabolism regardless of the direction of imbalance. One study showed that Turmeric’s antioxidant properties acted to lower many of the chemicals associated with cardiovascular disease, including cholesterol, and another study demonstrated that an extract of Turmeric greatly improved the body’s ability to neutralize and remove the harmful chemicals from smoking. Not only does Turmeric show this range of cancer-preventing actions, it has proven to be of great benefit to patients who already have cancerous tumors, inhibiting both the growth rate and recurrence of the tumors. Turmeric extracts are also showing promise in intensive studies of AIDS patients. Also available as a Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, for long term support of the systems and functions described, and also for Yoga and related practices. Item #0069. $15.95

USNEA - Usnea barbata.

Ruled by Mars. Usnea has a mossy look to it, but is actually a lichen- a fungus and an algae living in symbiosis as one organism. Its historical name, Old Man's Beard, points both to its appearance and to its use, following the Doctrine of Signatures, as a tonic to the hair and scalp. Usnea has also long been prized for its more common modern use as a strong anti-infective and antibiotic. It is especially active against bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Tuberculosis, and other fast-growing bacteria. It has very little effect on the beneficial bacteria of the digestive system, and so is gentler and has fewer side effects than pharmaceutical antibiotics, while still being more effective than penicillin in some cases. It also fights Trichomonas infection and other pathogens, such as yeasts and fungus, which commonly affect the female reproductive system. Usnea is also commonly used against urinary tract infections and lupus. Its combination of antibiotic and immune-enhancing effects with its ability to relax smooth muscles, especially the bronchi, make it very valuable for colds, flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and related problems. Item #1153. $15.95

UVA URSI - Arctostaphylos uva-ursi.

Ruled by Venus. A low-growing plant with shiny, leathery leaves, creating vining mats on the ground in the dry forest areas of the world. Marco Polo, returning from China, and the early colonists of America all reported its use by native peoples as a kidney herb. Its main constituents are antiseptic and astringent, and so it is most often applied to urinary system infections which need a toning or cooling action. It reduces inflammation, helps tone the structure of the tissues, acidifies the urine to kill bacteria, and also contains allantoin, the tissue-regenerative constituent found in comfrey. Uva Ursi can also be used for diarrhea, dysentery, and other intestinal problems. Because it is so astringent and acidic, it can be irritating if taken for more than a few days or in large doses. It should not be used during pregnancy. Item #1030. $15.95

VALERIAN - Valeriana officinalis.

Ruled by Moon. Used for its sedative and painkilling properties, and as a muscle relaxant and nervine. Valerian can be helpful for conditions such as insomnia, muscle spasms or stiffness, menstrual pain, headaches or other pain, and has been used by some to calm the brain activity associated with epilepsy. Large or prolonged doses of Valerian can result in depression, nausea, dizziness, and loss of mental clarity. Some people find that Valerian is too stimulating at first to use as a sleep tonic, or that it leaves a “hangover” feeling in the morning; both of these problems are often resolved by taking Black Cohosh with Valerian. Also see Northwestern Valerian, available as a Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, a much more balanced type of Valerian, acting to calm with clarity. Item #0010. $15.95

VITEX - Vitex agnus-castus.

Ruled by Venus. Also known as “Chaste Tree.” Most commonly used to bring balance and health to the female organs and their cycles, due to its progesterone content. Some conditions which have responded well to Vitex are excessive bleeding, irregular cycles, fibroids and other uterine or ovarian growths and inflammations, excessive cramps, and amenorrhea. Vitex can also be very beneficial to women who have stopped using birth control pills, to re-balance healthy hormonal function. Because Vitex contains progesterone, it is most helpful for problems which occur during the second half of the cycle, from ovulation to menstruation. This is the phase during which the symptom package known as PMS occurs, and Vitex can help with all PMS-related problems- emotional upset, cramps, migraines, acne, swollen feet, etc. Although it works primarily on these second-half problems, Vitex should be taken throughout the entire cycle, supplemented by estrogenic herbs during the first half of the cycle. For most purposes, it is necessary to take Vitex daily as a long-term therapy. Improvement is usually seen after the third cycle from beginning, but it is necessary to continue for many months to effect long-term re-balancing. Vitex should not be taken if the patient is taking prescription-type hormones, as it may interfere with their action. It has also shown some effectiveness in treating symptoms of menopause. Item #0037. $15.95

WILD GINGER- Asarum Canadensis.

Ruled by Moon. Although not related to culinary Ginger, the oddly beautiful Wild Ginger plant shares its spicy nature. Its main indication is when some part of the body is dry or congested, as it stimulates the secretion of fluids from all over the body, from sweat and saliva to urine and sometimes even tear ducts. Wild Ginger can be very useful alone or in combination with Mugwort at the onset of a cold or other respiratory infection, or in cases where the "coming down with something" phase drags on and the body's defenses of cleansing through sweating and fever will not mobilize. In much the same way, it will stimulate crampy or sluggish menses, or to promote the eruption and consequent healing of measles or chicken pox. Wild Ginger should be avoided in pregnancy. Item #1014. $15.95

WILD YAM - Dioscorea sp.

Ruled by Moon. The most common use of wild yam is for the hormonal effects, as it contains DHEA, a hormone precursor. This constituent has usefulness for both men and women, as it can be made by the body into many other hormones, but it does have a particular slant towards progesterone, and so is especially useful for women. These progesterone compounds are also used for exhausted adrenal conditions, and it is comparable to licorice in that effect and its effect on balancing blood sugar levels. More well-known in eastern medicine is its use for digestive system problems of a bilious or gaseous nature. Its alkaloid constituents act as strong relaxants to the stomach muscles and nerves, and so can be very useful in nausea, cramping, and vomiting. This anti-spasmodic effect can also be applied to the uterus, and is useful for both menstrual cramps and prevention of miscarriage. Under the supervision of a physician, it can be a very good uterine tonic for pregnancy, also helping greatly with morning sickness. Also available as a Spagyric Spiritualized Essence for Energetic Balance, for long-term support of the hormonal and endocrine systems. Item #0019. $15.95

YARROW - Achillea millefolium.

Ruled by Mars. Yarrow has a unique combination of constituents normally found singly in other plants, and has been a popular remedy in Europe for centuries. It contains aspirin-like compounds, which can be helpful at the onset of illness to reduce fever, and for many types of swelling and pain. Also helpful in the phase of “coming down” with something is Yarrow’s apparent ability to stimulate perspiration and overall elimination of wastes, and its balancing effect on circulation. The combination of painkilling and anti-inflammatory compounds, which have a particular affinity for the joints, and its waste-elimination effects make it potentially useful in arthritis and gout. In addition to the aspirin-like chemicals, Yarrow contains azulene, also found in Chamomile, making Yarrow of possible benefit to spasmodic problems of the stomach and intestines. Finally, Yarrow is high in astringent tannins, leading to its old folk use for unwanted bleeding, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids, and for problems of the female reproductive system and urinary tract. Item #0052. $15.95

YELLOW DOCK - Rumex crispus.

Ruled by Jupiter. High in iron and other minerals, Yellow Dock is used to cleanse and build the blood through stimulation of the liver’s action. This balancing and cleansing is used in cases of poor digestion, especially of fats or dairy, and especially when the resulting liver congestion manifests as skin problems. The mineral content in Yellow Dock may also help to balance the body’s own chemistry, and is said to be of particular benefit to the pineal gland. It is also used for diseases specific to the liver, such as jaundice and hepatitis. Item #0068. $15.95

YERBA MANSA - Anemopsis californica.

Ruled by Saturn. Yerba Mansa, with Osha, is another of the Southwest´s most revered herbs. It is used for many of the same infectious conditions, such as sore throats and sinus problems, but while Osha´s effect is heating and moisturizing, Yerba Mansa is cooling and drying. These properties are useful not just in cases of infection, but also when injury has caused inflammation and tissue congestion. Yerba Mansa is used to both directly shrink inflamed tissues and help transport the fluid buildup out of them, it also has aspirin-like effects. This spectrum of actions, as well as its benefit in removing built-up nitrogen-based wastes from the deep tissues and joints, make it a popular remedy for arthritis as well. Its antibacterial effects can also be helpful to long-standing or difficult intestinal infections. Also available as a Spagyric Magistery for Soul Level Balance, with strong archetypal energies of Saturn. Item #0074. $15.95

YERBA MATE - Ilex paraguayensis.

Ruled by Sun. Yerba Mate has gotten a lot of attention as an alternative to coffee. There is some debate as to whether Yerba Mate contains caffeine, but like tea, it seems to be in a form which is less damaging to the body than that found in coffee. Yerba Mate is a stimulant and pick-me-up, but without subsequent "crashing" and loss of vitality in most people. It is considered by many to be a whole-body tonic, increasing the vitality of all bodily systems, acting as an anti-oxidant, and balancing the metabolism and most bodily functions. Item #1144. $15.95

YERBA SANTA - Eriodictyon crassifolium.

Ruled by Mercury. A plant of very complex chemistry, Yerba Santa has a long Native American use as a drying decongestant. It is used in conditions which are congested, stagnant or inflamed, whether in the lungs, sinuses, or urinary tract. Yerba Santa also has a high flavonoid content, making it of possible benefit in long-term therapy for allergies, as well as for their short-term relief. Item #0026. $15.95

YOHIMBE - Pausinistalia yohimba.

Ruled by Venus. A famous aphrodisiac herb from Africa which contains hormone precursors, especially testosterone and so is also used for building muscle and endurance. It also works to lower blood pressure and dilate the capillaries at the skin's surface, especially in the sex organs. Yohimbe can be very helpful in difficult cases of impotence, but should be treated with care. It can be dangerous if used in excess, for too long a period, or by persons with heart problems or blood pressure imbalances. It should not be taken within 10 hours of the use of sedatives, alcohol, antihistamines, narcotics, or common psychiatric drugs such as Prozac. It can also cause reactions with chocolate, dairy products, aged cheese, liver, red wine, and other substances containing the amino acid tyramine. Item #0033. $15.95

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