AltMedAngel: Alternative Medicine Angel
This is a non-profit site offering educational information and broad based research on various health conditions, medications, supplements and therapies. In addition, this site provides information on how to naturally improve overall health, strengthen the immune system, and slow the aging process. There is a list of physicians who use alternative treatments, a newsletter and book review section, and a product guide. To access this site: Click on the link above or at the bottom of this page.
An Herbal Glossary
Astringent
An agent that diminishes internal or external secretions or causes soft tissue to pucker.
Bitter
A substance that stimulates secretion of saliva and increases appetite.
Decoction
A water extract of herbs made by boiling or simmering; stronger than tea.
Demulcent
A substance that soothes inflamed mucous membranes.
Digestive
A substance that improves digestion.
Diuretic
A substance that increases the flow of urine.
Elixir
An alcohol based medication, usually sweetened.
Essential Oil
A volatile (easily vaporized) and scented plant oil found in many herbal medications.
Expectorant
A substance that eases the coughing up of mucus.
Infusion
A medication made by combining plants or plant extracts with boiling water; similar to a tea.
Poultice
A moist, hot compress applied externally to the body.
Simple
A medicinal herb without strong effects.
A
Weight Loss Nutrient Glossary
Calcium
One of the most plentiful minerals in the body, calcium plays a role in energy regulation and less weight gain in middle age.
Chromium
An important trace mineral that helps the body reduce fat, increase lean muscle and use blood sugar more efficiently.
CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid)
A fatty acid that encourages muscles to take in blood sugar and fatty acids so they can be burned for energy instead of being stored as fat.
Coleus Forskohlii
A native Indian herb that helps support a healthy ratio of fat to lean tissue.
Fiber
The indigestible portion of plant-based foods that is essential for proper bowel function and promotes feelings of fullness, reducing the urge to overeat.
Garcinia Cambogia
Small fruit containing HCA, which interferes with the conversion of carbohydrates into fat and may suppress appetite by affecting brain chemicals associated with appetite control.
Green Tea
Leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant containing EGCG and polyphenols which increase energy and help block water retention.
Guarana
Seeds of a vine native to Brazil that contain caffeine, which relieves fatigue, suppresses appetite and increases metabolic rate.
L-carnitine
An amino acid that aids in the conversion of fat into energy and may help ease fatigue related to exercise.
Rhodiola
An herb that boosts energy and helps the body adapt to stress... a common cause of overeating.
Spirulina
A blue-green algae that provides a concentrated source of easily digested protein, vitamins, minerals and phytonunutiients.
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