PART FOUR- ("TRUNCATED" MESSAGE, continued):

 

Pine nuts are high in fat, but most of it is unsaturated and has not been shown to be a major contributor to obesity if eaten in moderation.

 

 

PINEAPPLE

Rich in enzymes that help metabolize foods and fend off allergies and autoimmune disorders. Effective anti-inflammatory. Analgesic. Rich source of iodine, which is necessary to produce thyroid hormone, which regulates the body's energy level, and is essential for fetal and childhood brain development. Antiviral. Blood thinner. Prevents clots and promotes circulation. Breaks down arteriosclerotic plaques and relieves heartburn. Good for sore throats. The enzyme bromelain, in cream form, helps speed up healing of bruises and sports-related injuries such as tendonitis in athletes. Inhibits tumors and heals ulcers. Treats arthritis. Shown to promote the healing of third degree burns. Bromelain also flushes fat from the body by stimulating metabolism and ridding the body of excess fluids. It is also used as a digestive enzyme replacement to ease pain and increase absorption of both natural and synthetic medicines. Bromelain has been used to treat sinus inflammation and soft tissue injuries such as carpel tunnel syndrome and plantar fasciitis. Bromelain has also been shown to reduce symptoms in colitis patients. Because bromelain reduces inflammation, it may also be helpful for asthma sufferers. High in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, promote a steady heartbeat, and lower your risk of stroke. Bromelain can be used as a meat tenderizer. When mixed with curcumin (turmeric), used as a treatment for lupus. Fruit can be used externally to remove warts and corns. An unpeeled fruit drink can been used to expel intestinal parasites. The boiled rind combined with rosemary treats skin rashes, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, jock itch, and hemorrhoids. Diluted juice treats nausea-induced motion sickness. Canned pineapple is used as a dip for athlete's foot and nail fungus. Leaves are also used topically to remove ringworm. Some individuals may be allergically sensitive to bromelain.

 

 

PINKROOT

Used in teas to expel intestinal worms. Stimulant. Extreme caution should be taken when using this highly toxic herb.

 

 

PIÑON BLANCO

The sap of this Peruvian shrub is used as a painless wart removal treatment.

 

 

PIPSISSEWA

Treatment for urinary tract infections and cystitis. Antibacterial. Diaphoretic (induces sweating). Astringent. Diuretic. Used externally to heal blisters and swellings.

 

 

PISTACHIO

Antioxidant. Rich in protein. Anti-inflammatory. Nuts are high in Vitamin B6 which is critical for protein and red blood cell metabolism, for the proper functioning of the nervous and immune systems, and for the maintenance of blood sugar levels. Kidney and liver tonic. Lowers total cholesterol and increases beneficial HDL cholesterol levels. Pistachios help lubricate the intestines. Used in combination with peanut oil as a massage oil. High in arginine, an amino acid which has been shown to increase the body’s production of nitric acid. Nitric acid helps dilate blood vessels and improves blood circulation to the heart, brain, and bladder. Nuts, in general, are high in fat, but most of it is unsaturated and has not been shown to be a major contributor to obesity if eaten in moderation.

 

 

PLANTAIN

Natural antibiotic. Anti-inflammatory. Immune system booster. Antioxidant. Contains allantoin, a proven skin and wound healer. Leaves help soothe an irritated respiratory tract. Relieves peptic ulcer and bladder pain.  Also stops tooth pain. Crushed leaves can be used as a poultice for treating insect bites, stings, and poison ivy rashes. Used in cancer treatments. Also used as a hemostat to stop bleeding. Effective laxative if taken internally.

 

 

PLEURISY ROOT

SEE: BUTTERFLY WEED

 

 

PLUM

Prunes (dried plums) are very high in antioxidants. Antiviral. High in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, promote a steady heartbeat, and lower your risk of stroke. Treats cold or canker sores. Umeboshi plums can be used to treat gastrointestinal amoebas. Prunes are very high in fiber which helps increase elimination. Both prunes and prune juice are outstanding laxatives.

 

 

 

POI

SEE: TARO

 

 

POKEWEED

High in Vitamin A which helps form and maintain teeth, tissues, and skin. Vitamin A also produces pigments that are essential for good vision. Tea treats glandular inflammations including tonsillitis, swollen lymph nodes, mastitis, and breast cancer. Used in herbal washes and in ointment form to treat skin maladies such as chickenpox, measles, mumps, herpes, shingles, psoriasis, eczema, scabies, ringworm, skin ulcers, fungal infections, boils, carbuncles, bedsores, and rashes. Pokeweed has been shown to kill the freshwater snails that host the flatworms that infect humans causing schistosomiasis.  

 

 

 

POMEGRANATE

Antibacterial. Astringent. Pomegranate juices, peels, wines, and oils are very rich in antioxidants. Dried seeds are one of the best treatments for removing intestinal worms, especially tapeworms. Fruits and peels are used to treat diarrhea. Shown to shrink tumors in those with prostate cancer. Pomegranate juice also reduces blood pressure, lowers total and LDL blood cholesterol levels, and may slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Helps reduce the size of atherosclerotic plaques. Seed oil has been used to treat skin cancers. Floral and juice extracts lower blood sugar levels and have been used in the treatment of diabetes. Pomegranate is a potent source of estrogens that treat bone loss in menopausal women, relieve depression, and may be an effective breast cancer cell inhibitor and preventative. Fruit extracts have been used in mouth-rinses to treat dental plaque. Pomegranate peel extracts have wound healing properties. Pomegranate juice has been shown to inhibit the HIV virus. Shown to protect cells against chemical attack. Juice may improve sperm quality in men.

 

 

POPLAR

Treats topically skin afflictions such as acne, skin ulcers, gangrenous wounds, eczema, burns, and body odor. Used internally for pain relief and rheumatism.

 

 

 

POPPY

Source for sedatives such as opium, morphine, and heroin. Mild analgesic. Seeds are high in magnesium, which is a natural tranquilizer and helps the body to regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Magnesium is also good for relief of migraines and helps slow bone loss. Seeds are also a good calcium source. Calcium helps form and preserve teeth and bones and prevent osteoporosis.

 

 

PORK

Great protein source. High in folic acid (Vitamin B9) and selenium. Folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, and has been shown to be protective against fetal neural tube defects, cervical dysplasia, heart disease, bowel problems, and certain cancers (e.g. bladder). Selenium is vital for a normal functioning immune system and thyroid, helps prevent atherosclerosis and arthritis, alleviates menopausal symptoms, promotes a healthy central nervous system and prostate, and may offer some cancer protection. Cured ham and bacon are high in sodium which can be a major contributor to hypertension in salt-sensitive individuals. Bacon is also high in saturated fat which can contribute to atherosclerosis. High salt diets can also deplete the body’s calcium levels, which can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

 

 

POTATO

Cooked russet potatoes are very high in antioxidants. Rich in Vitamin C which boosts the immune system and has been used in the prevention and treatment of many cancers. High in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, promote a steady heartbeat, and lower your risk of stroke. Lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and helps reduce heart disease. Intestinal cleaner. Increases stool weight and movements (with unpeeled spuds). Non-fattening (used in weight loss programs). Skin contains beneficial antioxidants. Peelings have been used in broths to expel gallstones. Possible suicide preventative. Used as a plaster to reduce inflammations and for drawing out purulent matter from skin eruptions, cysts, and tumors. Yams provide support for the liver and gallbladder. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and rich in beta-carotene and Vitamin A. Beta-carotene can help prevent the development of eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Beta-carotene also offers protection against UV-induced sunlight damage. Vitamin A helps form and maintain teeth, tissues, and skin. Vitamin A also produces pigments that are essential for good vision. Fiber helps increase elimination. Yams help remove heavy metals from the body such as cadmium, copper, mercury, and lead (sulphur-rich). Consuming yams and sweet potatoes may be protective in cities with high smog rates. These potatoes are also used to facilitate removal of foreign objects swallowed accidentally by coating the object till it is expelled later on. Potato skins have also been used to remove warts. Boiled potato peels have been used as dressings to treat burn victims. Leaves, sprouts, vines, fruits, and green tubers are considered poisonous and should not be consumed. Keep in mind that some members of the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and potatoes, have been known to provoke allergic and other adverse reactions in some sensitive individuals when consumed in sufficient quantities. Potato skins often contain high concentrations of pesticides; to reduce your intake of residues, be sure to peel, wash, and thoroughly cook potatoes before consumption.

 

POTENTILLA

SEE: CINQUEFOIL

 

 

PRAWN

SEE: SHRIMP

 

 

 

PRICKLY ASH

Antifungal. Tones and stimulates the lymphatic system. Restores salivary gland functions and taste. Treats rheumatism, muscle paralysis, arthritis, peritonitis, bowel distention, abdominal inflammations, and swelling. Promotes intense fever relief from cholera, typhus, typhoid, and pneumonia. Lowers blood pressure. Diaphoretic. Increases the body's ability to sweat out toxins. Possible remedy for sickle-cell anemia. Poultice used for muscle and joint pain relief. Bark used in tooth powders and for toothache. Twigs are used as a toothbrush for cleaning teeth and gums.

SEE ALSO: ASH

 

 

 

PROBIOTICS

SEE: YOGURT

 

 

PROPOLIS

Propolis is a resin produced by bees that is used as a hive sealant (bee glue). High in antioxidants. Antiviral. Antifungal. Antibacterial. Antiseptic. Anti-inflammatory. Possible cancer preventative. Treats ulcers. Wound cleaner. Liver protector. Ointment treats minor burns, swellings, and herpes lesions. Boosts the immune system. Some varieties of propolis have neuroprotective properties, and have shown some promise in the treatment of insect-vectored diseases such as leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis. Propolis can help inhibit intestinal parasites such as the protozoan, giardia, which can be present in contaminated food and water. Shown to inhibit the growth of tumors. Used to increase the effectiveness of natural or synthetic antibiotics. Possible HIV suppresser and colon cancer inhibitor and preventative. Used in some toothpastes. May be helpful in the treatment of oral thrush and gingivitis.

 

 

PRUNE

SEE: PLUM

 

 

PSYLLIUM

Psyllium seed is a bulk-forming laxative, and is one of the best colon cleaners. Use 100% for extra fiber to help increase elimination. Treats constipation, diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and hemorrhoids. Removes intestinal toxins. Reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics. Increases feelings of fullness after a meal (helpful for the obese). Excellent at lowering total cholesterol. Shown to increase beneficial HDL cholesterol levels. Possible colon cancer preventative. Be sure to take psyllium with plenty of water to prevent intestinal obstruction. Be aware that some people are allergically sensitive to psyllium.

 

 

PUMPKIN

Seeds are rich in protein and are used as a treatment for edema, gout, inflammation, nausea, bladder and kidney stones, and urinary problems. Both pumpkin and squash seeds are rich in zinc, which is vital for a healthy immune system, skin repair injuries, the digestion of starchy food, thyroid hormone metabolism, and regulation of the prostate gland. Seed oil treats benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction. Helps prevents the breakdown of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Seeds or fresh flesh can be used to eliminate tapeworms, roundworms, and pinworms from the body. Seeds have also been used in treatment programs for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Cancer preventative. Squash and its seeds are high in antioxidants. Pumpkin and Italian squash are rich in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene can help prevent the development of eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Beta-carotene also offers protection against UV-induced sunlight damage. Butternut squash is very high in Vitamin C, calcium, and beta-carotene. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and has been used in the prevention and treatment of many cancers. Acorn squash is also a good source of calcium. Calcium helps form and preserve teeth and bones and prevent osteoporosis. Winter squash is high in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, promote a steady heartbeat, and lower your risk of stroke. Yellow squash is high in carotenoids which can help prevent the development of eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Mashed pumpkin has been used as a poultice for burns and inflammation relief. Pulp compresses treat migraines, earaches, and burns. Paste good for scratches and wounds. Leaves can be used as a poultice for sprains, fractures, tendonitis, and backache. Leaf tea helps reduce fevers and stop diarrhea.  

 

 

PURSLANE

Anti-inflammatory. Antioxidant. Analgesic. Rich in Vitamins A and C. Vitamin A helps form and maintain teeth, tissues, and skin. Vitamin A also produces pigments that are essential for good vision. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and has been used in the prevention and treatment of many cancers. Treats respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis, urinary tract disorders, and skin afflictions. Also treats gastrointestinal problems. Induces heart contractions in those with low blood pressure. Used topically to accelerate wound healing. Extracts are neuroprotective and have shown the ability to protect nervous tissue and the brain from hypoxia (oxygen deprivation).

 

 

PUSSY WILLOW

SEE: CATTAIL

 

 

PYGEUM

African plum tree helps protect the prostate gland. Treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia and chronic prostatitis. Prevents the breakdown of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Also treats urinary problems.

 

Q

 

 

 

 

QUASSIA

Digestive aid. Appetite stimulant. Increases gastric juices. In larger doses, can help expel intestinal parasites such as amoebas and the protozoan, giardia, which can be present in contaminated food and water. Caribbeans have used this herb in teas to treat malaria and dysentery.

 

 

QUEEN ANNE’S LACE

Possible contraceptive. Seeds are thought to block the production of progesterone, which is necessary for proper fertilization in women.

 

 

QUINCE

Used in facial masks to improve complexion. Creams made from seeds extracts have been used to accelerate wound healing.

 

 

QUININE

Used as a bitter flavoring agent in tonic water. Bark extracts treat malarial fevers and infections. Berry skin is used by Australian aborigines as a male contraceptive. Treats painful leg cramps. Exercise caution when using quinine, since some people have experienced toxic side effects including anemia, rashes, and vision problems.

 

 

QUINOA

Highly nutritious protein-rich grain (technically a seed). High in fiber which helps increase elimination. Treats liver and urinary disorders. Promotes oxygenation of the blood.

 

 

R

 

 

 

 

RADISH

Antioxidant. Can protect against breast, colon, and stomach cancer. Seeds in tea have been used to reduce stomach cancer. Juice treats abdominal cancers. Provides detoxification support for the liver and gallbladder. Helps in the digestion of starches. A drink made with carrots helps to remove fatty deposits in tissues. Radish greens are a good source of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene can help prevent the development of eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Beta-carotene also offers protection against UV-induced sunlight damage. Boiled roots have been used to relieve symptoms of chronic coughing and raging fevers. Combined with milk, helps treat diarrhea. Combined with wine, helps to prevent gall and kidney stones. Radish juice also has been used as a deodorant for feet and underarms. Poultices treat external burns and scalds. When heated, the poultice has also been used to treat breast cancer.

 

 

RAISIN

SEE: GRAPES

 

 

RAPESEED

Also called canola. Oil is high in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which support the heart, nervous system, and prostate. Canola oil is high in Vitamin K, which is essential in the production of blood clotting proteins, improves bone metabolism, and has been shown to have anti-cancer effects.  Rapeseed oil can lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. Tumor inhibitor. Rapeseed protein is used primarily as a feed grain.  Some studies have suggested that regular consumption of rapeseed oil may contribute to an increase in blood pressure and hypertension, especially in salt-sensitive individuals.

 

 

RASPBERRY

Antiviral. Antifungal. Antibacterial. Immune system stimulant. High in antioxidants. Contains natural salicylates (aspirin). Provides common cold relief. Possible tumor suppresser. Red raspberries are the richest known source of ellagic acid, which is thought to be responsible for the anti-cancer effect. Diuretic. Lowers blood sugar and promotes insulin production. High in calcium and minerals. Calcium helps form and preserve teeth and bones and prevent osteoporosis. Helpful for all female organs and problems. Leaf tea is used by midwives to strengthen the muscles of the uterus prior to pregnancy. Promotes shorter and easier labor. Helps decrease menstrual flow and cramps. Good for aches and pain relief. Tea excellent for morning sickness, nausea, diarrhea, and a pain-free pregnancy and childbirth. Used as a mouthwash and gargle for infections. Helps prevent tartar buildup on teeth. Used to treat muscular paralysis due to electric shock, hypertension, and skin cancer.

 

 

RED CLOVER

Treatment for diarrhea. Tea treats a sore throat and whooping cough. Blood purifier and cleanser. Relieves heart pain and phlebitis. Antispasmodic. Expectorant. Can reduce the growth of cancerous tumors and associated intense pain. Contains estrogenic compounds which increase estrogen levels. Improves arterial blood flow. Shown to significantly lower total serum cholesterol and triglycerides, lower harmful LDL, and raise beneficial HDL levels. Reduces bone loss in menopausal women. Decreases the incidence and severity of hot flashes. Reduces blood clots and abdominal cramps. Helps clear the body of toxins. Treats indigestion. Tones and stimulates the lymphatic system. Antiseptic. Good for acne and skin problems such as eczema, burns, ulcers, and psoriasis. 

 

 

RED PEPPER

SEE: CAYENNE

 

 

RED ROOT

Tones and stimulates the lymphatic system.

 

 

REHMANNIA

Adrenal glands system builder. Lowers blood sugar in diabetics.

 

 

 

RHODIOLA

Antioxidant. Treats fatigue, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and schizophrenia. Protects the heart. Helps enhance physical and mental performance for those individuals who suffer from acute or chronic overwork, or who endure high levels of alternate stressors. Offers a protective effect against irradiation, extreme temperatures, oxygen deprivation, and intense physical activity. Extracts have been used to treat hypertension and diabetes. May be helpful in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia. Shown to inhibit tumor growth. Protects the liver against chemical poisonings. Tonic herb similar to ginseng in its effects. Regular use may cause an increase in irritability or insomnia.

 

 

 

RHODODENDRUM

Tea treats chronic cystitis. Remedy for kidney stones and provides kidney support. Helps reduce mucous congestion. All raw plant parts are highly toxic and should not be consumed. Tea consumption is not recommended for long-term use.

 

 

RHUBARB

Antioxidant. Antibacterial. Laxative and astringent. Lowers cholesterol. Treats inflammation of the pancreas and gallbladder. Tonic for the kidneys. Reduces tumors and melanomas. Helps relieve symptoms of psoriasis, arthritis, eczema, herpes, acne, and hepatitis. Heals duodenal ulcers associated with digestive tract bleeding and aids recovery. Controls constipation and severe diarrhea. Juice strengthens tooth enamel. Remedy for cholera. The leaves of this plant are poisonous and should not be consumed. Not recommended for pregnant women or for long-term use.

 

 

RICE

Reduces blood sugar. Prevents constipation and increases bowels. Rice bran is a powerful antioxidant that helps keep skin smooth and cements fractures. Rice bran is rich in Vitamin B6 which is critical for protein and red blood cell metabolism, for the proper functioning of the nervous and immune systems, and for the maintenance of blood sugar levels. Can be eaten by those who are gluten intolerant (who have celiac disease). Rice is high in selenium, which is vital for a normal functioning immune system and thyroid, helps prevent atherosclerosis and arthritis, alleviates menopausal symptoms, promotes a healthy central nervous system and prostate, and may offer some cancer protection. White rice is rich in folic acid (Vitamin B9) which is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, and has been shown to be protective against fetal neural tube defects, cervical dysplasia, heart disease, bowel problems, and certain cancers (e.g. bladder). The bran oil in rice will help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and may help prevent heart disease. Rice water and flour are used to treat diarrhea. Rice coffee and tea help relieve headaches produced by alcoholic hangovers. Chinese red yeast rice lowers total cholesterol, increases beneficial HDL cholesterol levels, and promotes bone formation. Some rice varieties have shown the ability to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Side effects from consuming red yeast rice include headache and stomachache. 

 

 

 

ROSE

Antioxidant. Antimicrobial. Rose petals have been used to treat eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Rose hips (the seed pods) are among the richest known sources of Vitamin C, and are often used in supplements. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and has been used in the prevention and treatment of many cancers. They also contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant, which has been found to be protective against heart disease, cataracts, diabetes, and numerous cancers including skin, colon, breast, ovarian, cervical, prostate, and bladder. Rose hips also help reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Leafy pulp can be used as a poultice to promote the healing of external wounds. Rose water is an excellent skin and facial cleanser. It helps reduce skin wrinkling, reduces blackheads and acne, and can be used as an effective eyewash. Rose water can also be used as a treatment for bowel problems.

 

 

ROSEMARY

Contains natural salicylates (aspirin). High in antioxidants and calcium. Calcium helps form and preserve teeth and bones and prevent osteoporosis. High in Vitamin B6 which is critical for protein and red blood cell metabolism, for the proper functioning of the nervous and immune systems, and for the maintenance of blood sugar levels. Lowers blood sugar. Prevents cellular DNA damage. Extracts can protect the liver against chemical poisonings. Possible breast cancer preventative. May help restore brain function and memory in those with Alzheimer's. Protects lungs. Tumor inhibitor. Soothes the digestive system. Treats depression, stress, rheumatism, gout, stomach ulcers, and kidney stones. Stimulates appetite. Helps liver by increasing bile flow. Relieves headaches. Water purifier. Strong diuretic. Used as a mouthwash for bad breath. Oil used as a liniment for aching muscles and to clear your head. Skin softener and stimulant. Used in soaps as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory to treat wounds, blemishes, boils, dermatitis, and herpes fever blisters. Tea used as a shampoo, conditioner, and hair rinse. Rosemary oil is often used with almond oil in scalp massages to help increase circulation and stimulate hair growth. Not recommended for pregnant women.

 

 

ROYAL JELLY

Royal jelly is the nutritious substance secreted by honeybee workers to feed colony members and the queen. Antioxidant. In capsules, increases stamina, endurance, and concentration. Contains testosterone. Promotes calcium absorption and may be helpful in the treatment of osteoporosis. Curbs appetite. Promotes restful sleep. Builds and promotes sex glands and restores vitality. Increases sperm count and frequency of ejaculations. May prolong life.

 

 

RUTABAGA

Can protect against breast, colon, and stomach cancer. Reduces cholesterol and constipation.

 

 

 

RYE

Reduces blood sugar and cholesterol. Helps prevent heart disease. Rye bread is rich in fiber which helps treat constipation and improve bowels. May offer protection against toxic chemicals in the environment. Shown to suppress tumor growth. May promote a healthy prostate. Some people are gluten intolerant of rye (i.e. have celiac disease). Rye breads are higher in salt than most other store-bought breads. Dietary sodium can be a major contributor to hypertension in salt-sensitive individuals. High salt diets can also deplete the body’s calcium levels, which can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

 

 

S

 

 

 

 

 

SAFFLOWER