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| sorbing nutrients that other plants can't reach. Alfalfa helps lower cholesterol and improve the blood's clotting ability; it is also a mild diuretic. A traditional therapy for arthritis, gout, rheumatism, fluid retention, peptic ulcers and digestive problems, alfalfa has demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal and antitumor activity in laboratory tests. |
| Cherries and Berries |
| Cherries, hawthorn berries, blueberries, grapes and other dark red-blue berries are rich sources of compounds that improve collagen metabolism and reduce joint inflammation. The famous botanist Linnaeus reportedly cured his gout by eating large quantities of strawberries morning and night, which led him to call them a ''blessing of the gods." More recently, a gout "strawberry cure" of eating nothing but strawberries for several days was made popular by a French herbalist. Cherries are another specific for gout. During summer months, when these fruits are abundant, try to eat at least 1/2 cup daily, preferably more. If you prepare fresh juices, add them to your juicer as often as possible. People have derived results from canned, frozen, bottled, dried and even candied cherries, but for best results, make fresh fruit your first choice. |
| Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) |
| Best known as a treatment for preventing migraine headaches, feverfew is also effective in treating arthritis and other inflammatory illnesses. Feverfew's extremely bitter taste has made capsules and tablets more popular than teas, tinctures or fresh leaves. Note that a small percentage of those who try feverfew experience throat and mouth irritation. If you have an allergic reaction, discontinue use. For a review of this plant's practical applications, see Feverfew: Your Headache May Be Over by Ken Hancock. |
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