Benefits Of "Chaparral"
Benefits Of “Chaparral”
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| Benefits | Studies | Chemical & Nutrient Content |
Growing | Suggestions |
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| Genus: Larrea Species: L. divaricata Also known as: stinkweed, greasewood, creosote bush Parts used: twigs, leaflets |
Chaparral increases adrenal ascorbic acid levels, purifies the blood, relieves pain and may protect against the formation of tumors and cancer cells. It also improves kidney, liver and lung function.
The American Southwest Indians used chaparral tea to treat arthritis, bronchitis, chicken pox, colds and snake bites. Today few herbalist suggest chaparral, but, those who do, recommend it externally to prevent wound infection and internally for intestinal parisites and bacterial and viral illnesses.
Cancer patients wishing to use this herb in addition to other treatments should do so only in consultation with their physician. As with all herbal nutrition supplements, chaparral supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
Chaparral taste downright nasty and its smell is as equally unpleasant. The chaparral bush contains a chemical called NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid) that kills bacteria and other micro organisms that turns fats and oils rancid. NDGA has antiseptic action.
STUDIES:
A study in the Journal of Dental Research showed chaparral reduced cavities by 75%. Micro organisms that cause gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Therefore, it may provide added protection against cavities and gum disease.
NDGA is also a powerful antioxidant, which means it may help prevent the cell damage believed will eventually cause cancer. For over one hundred years it has been a popular folk treatment for cancer. Many testimonials from people claiming chaparral cured their cancer were received at the National Cancer Institute. Some laboratory studies agree this herb has anti tumor effects. Medical literature contains several case reports of tumor shrinkage in people who used this medicinal herb.
Advocates say that antioxidants like NGDA help slow the aging process. One study showed it significantly extends the average life span of laboratory animals and another study showed the chemical NGDA almost doubles the average life span of laboratory insects.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Nordihydroquaiaretic acid, sodium, sulfur and zinc.
GROWING:
Chaparral is not a garden herb. It resembles a dwarf oak. It is a green or yellow shrub that dominates the American southwest.
SUGGESTIONS:
Other herbs with antiseptic actions include balm, cinnamon, chamomile, eyebright, meadowsweet, saw palmetto, thyme, and white willow.Advocates say that antioxidants like NGDA help slow the aging process. One study showed it significantly extends the average life span of laboratory animals and another study showed the chemical NGDA almost doubles the average life span of laboratory insects.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Nordihydroquaiaretic acid, sodium, sulfur and zinc.
GROWING:
Chaparral is not a garden herb. It resembles a dwarf oak. It is a green or yellow shrub that dominates the American southwest.
SUGGESTIONS:
CHAPARRAL
