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| Studies at the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine show that six ounces of aloe vera juice taken three times daily increased protein digestion and absorption, decreased bowel putrefaction, improved pH levels in the intestinal tract and demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal and antiyeast activity. |
| Aloe vera's influence on stomach acidity has stimulated worldwide research on its usefulness in treating peptic ulcers. |
| ANGELICA (Angelica archangelic). A popular European root used as a flavoring for candy, liqueurs (Benedictine and Chartreuse), Swedish bitters and the German product Underberg, angelica is an aromatic bitter. Its seeds are used to flavor wines, perfumes and vermouth. In addition to being an effective carminative (gas reliever), angelica has diuretic and antispasmodic effects; it is a well-documented treatment for dyspepsia, enteritis, flatulence and gastritis. Combine with chamomile to treat indigestion, flatulence and loss of appetite. |
| To brew angelica tea, make a decoction by simmering 1 teaspoon root per cup of water in a covered pot over low heat for 2 to 5 minutes after it reaches the boiling point, then let stand 15 minutes. If combining with chamomile or any herb that requires infusing, wait until the angelica decoction has simmered for 2 to 5 minutes, then remove cover, add the chamomile, replace the cover and let stand 15 minutes. This two-step procedure releases the medicinal ingredients in angelica root while preserving the more fragile volatile oils in chamomile blossoms. |
| Rosemary Gladstar warns that angelica tea is not recommended for pregnant women unless advised by a midwife or doctor. |
| ANISE (Pimpinella anisum). Aniseed is an antispasmodic, carminative, anthelmintic and aromatic. Tea and tinctures containing it ease griping, intestinal colic and flatulence. Aniseed combines well with fennel and caraway for colic and flatulence. For tea, crush seeds just before using to release volatile oils. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons seed, cover and let stand 5 to 10 minutes. The essential oil |
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