Alfalfa Leaf belongs to the Fabaceae pea family and is a flowering plant grown as a forage crop. This is a perennial of the cool season that exists from three to twelve years. The survival of Alfalfa depends on the climate and variety. This is grown widely as forage for cattle and is also harvested as hay. These can also be made into grazed, silage or can be fed. It is the crop that is less used as pasture and is widely used as hay crops enjoying highest feeding value. If the crop is well adapted, it yields well. Alfalfa is the important legume employed in agriculture and the United States is the biggest producer. The other areas are Argentina, South Africa, Australia and Middle East. In Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore district this is grown well. The basic use of Alfalfa is dairy cattle feed and is given as it is high in proteins and has digestible fiber. This is also given to horses, beef cattle, goats and sheep. The alfalfa sprouts are eaten by humans in sandwiches and salads. It is available commercially in various forms such as powders, tablets and tea.

Aloe represents four hundred species of succulent plant and the common and popular is the aloe or Aloe Vera. This is a genus and is commonly found in South Africa. This is as well found in the adjacent areas such as the Arabian Peninsula, islands of Africa and Madagascar. This belongs to the Aloceae and the lily family. Members of allied genera such as Haworthia, Gasteria and Kniphofia exhibit identical growth and are known as aloes. The aloe species have thick, large and fleshy leaves. These leaves have a sharp apex in association with a spiny margin. Aloe is cultivated in gardens as well as in pots. It is considered to be ornamental plants and also has medicinal effects. Aloe Vera is used to treat wounds by the Romans and reeks. The processed aloe is used as a laxative as it contains aloin, while the aloe vera juice that is processed does not have aloin and is hence useful for digestive healing.

Apple Cider Vinegar contains extremely high levels of potassium, which is essential to all living cells but very important in the human diet for the health of the body. In addition, it is widely used for weight loss.

Apple Pectin is a dietary fiber and is of immense use in maintaining proper digestive health. Apple pectin rich fruits include apple, plum, currant and peach. The unripe fruits contain protopectin and this gets converted into pectin when they get ripe. The apple pectin is a colloidal water solution and on cooling becomes a gel. With appropriate sugar the fruits are cooked and when the pectin present is sufficient it is used in jellies and jams. However, overripe fruits become pectic acid and cannot form jelly in combination with sugar solutions. Apple pectin is a intestinal regulator and is widely used in medicinal preparations. Apples are always rich in pectin, the soluble fiber and are also one of the best in lowering cholesterol levels. This is also accepted as an anti-diarrhea agent. People eating fatty foods can wash down with apple juices. Apples have the rich pectin. Apple pectin cleanses the intestinal tract. It increases acidity in large intestines and is recommended for people suffering with colitis and ulcer. Pectin prevents gallstones as well and lessens diabetes.

Burdock Root is often used in traditional medicine as part of liver tonics as well as kidney function tonics as well. Burdock root is full of nutrients and helps the liver function more normally by helping the liver purge toxins from the body. When taken, the extract causes a sweating and urination response and is considered a diuretic. When taken with plenty of water, this helps flush the kidneys and let them work more efficiently on a day to day basis. On top of this, research shows that burdock root helps support and encourage the growth of beneficial colon bacteria and helps discourage the growth of bacterial pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract.

Caffeine is a powerful and very common alkaloid supplement used in 7-DFBX primarily to increase the body’s ability to lose weight quickly, boost energy and stimulate the brain into more activity with better clarity. It also fuels the body’s metabolism for increased fat burning qualities. This allows users to have more stamina for exercise and more focus for weight loss initiatives. Caffeine anhydrous is found naturally in many different beans and plants and works successfully as a stimulating supplement for those needing increased energy, focus, and alertness. When taken as a supplement for health or weight loss reasons, caffeine anhydrous should not be combined with other traditional forms of caffeine, such as soft drinks, energy drinks, coffee, or tea, because the supplement form is concentrated and powerful in itself.

Cayenne- There are a number of different names by which cayenne can be referred to. Bird pepper, red pepper, guinea pepper are a few of them. Cayenne is a kind of red chili pepper, which is hot in nature. It is mainly used for the purpose of cooking and medicines. Cayenne is one of the most widely used ingredients to add spice in the dishes. Sichuan cuisine uses a lot of cayenne in its sauces. It can be used in a lot of different forms. Powdered, flakes, dried and fresh are the most commonly used forms of the cayenne. A lot of vinegar based sauces use cayenne as the main ingredient to add hotness to the sauce. Another very important use of cayenne is for medicinal purposes. Cayenne helps in improving blood circulation and other circulatory related health issues.

Chromium Polynicotinate is a product associated with medical food. It is used as a nutritional support in diabetes related conditions. Chromium polynicotinate is said to be nothing but an assimilated form of chromium. It is said to be the most effective type of chromium. It is absorbed by the body in its biologically active form. It is also crucial to the process of synthesis of fats, protein and cholesterol. Chromium polynicotinate if taken in monitored dosage can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This proves beneficial for people suffering from diabetes as well as hypoglycemia. Its main property is to produce insulin. Therefore, it helps in the metabolism of glucose. This type of chromium polynicotinate helps in the production of anabolic effects which have no side effects. On the other hand, they help in keeping the fat cells away from the muscle cells.

Dandelion is a group of flowering plants which are found in Europe, Asia and North America. Two of the dandelion variants are worldwide spread weeds and can be seen flowering almost throughout the year. Seeds of the dandelion plant are produced without pollination, creating offspring with identical genetic material. Luteolin, a flavonoid, is a powerful antioxidant, is a secondary metabolite of dandelion and is believed to possess strong properties as an anti-inflammation agent, modulator of the immune system and promoter of the carbohydrate related metabolism. Furthermore it is thought to have significant anti-carcinogenic properties. Dandelion has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for liver detox, but in recent times there is evidence that dandelion may also be able to normalize sugar levels in blood.

Fennel Seed or Sauf is derived from the herb Foeniculum vulgare. It is commonly used for digestive problems such as relieving gas, cramps and indigestion. It is very rich in minerals particularly magnesium. It also has anethol that inhibits muscle spasms particularly in the intestinal tract. Fennel Seed also helps in increasing the production of bile. It may also be used for de-worming and ridding the intestine of other such parasites. Fennel Seed also possess anti-microbial properties and may act as a decongestant. It may also be used as diuretic. It is also effective in aiding weight loss because it suppresses appetite and food cravings. It also reduces water retention in the body.

Flax seed is rich in alpha linolenic acids that offer numerous health benefits to mankind. In fact, flax seed has actually become our modern miracle food considering the fact that it helps in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the body and also helps us reduce blood triglyceride and blood pressure. Given the amount of stress associated with urban living, people have become susceptible to a wide range of health problems that include diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, flax seed plays a major role in minimizing the risk of heart attack, since it keeps the platelets from becoming sticky. Flax seeds also have a high content of lignan, a type of phytoestrogen (antioxidant) that helps in cancer prevention, particularly breast cancer.

Garlic- In modern times, people are sticking to the adage - a clove of garlic a day keeps cancer away!! Due to its therapeutic properties, garlic has garnered the reputation of being a 'wonder' drug that fights virtually all possible illness ranging from common cold and flue to cancer and plague. Garlic not just keeps cancer at bay but also helps you manage high cholesterol levels. While most people prefer to use organically grown garlic for its high sulphur content, many choose to take garlic supplements in the form of pills and capsules. It is believed that raw garlic is quite effective for treating acne symptoms as well. Moderation is the key here, as consuming garlic in large quantities can cause irritation of the digestive tract and may even damage it.

Ginger Root refers to the rhizome of a plant called zingiber officinale that grows in moist and fertile tropical soil. Ginger is an underground stem extending to 12 inches above the ground. The ginger root has pungent phenol compounds and volatile oils. This is widely used as a medicine in Indian, Asian and Arabic herbal traditions. Ginger, in China is used to cure stomach upset, nausea and diarrhea since ancient times. Ginger is of great use to cure arthritis, diarrhea, Colic and heart conditions. Besides the medicinal value, Ginger is one of the indispensable ingredients as cooking spice and is also recommended to cure headaches, common cold, symptoms like flu and also painful menstrual periods. Ginger is widely used as medicine as it treats nausea, vomiting related to travel sickness, cancer chemotherapy and pregnancy. Though, there are effective medicines today, ginger root retain its position for its medicinal properties. It is also beneficial for heart disease as it reduces cholesterol and averts blood clotting. The ginger products are manufactured using dried or fresh ginger root and these are obtainable in extracts, capsules, tinctures and oils. Ginger is used in tea and in various drinks and foods.

Glucomannan, a water soluble dietary fiber that comes from the konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). Glucomannan is a laxative used to create larger, bulkier stool.

Grapefruit Extract, also known as citrus seed extract is a liquid that is derived from the seeds, pulp as well as the white membranes of grapefruit. Some scientists claim that grapefruit extract possesses antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties while others recommend it for the treatment of earache, throat infections etc. There are two ways in which grapefruit extract is prepared. One is the natural, self-made grapefruit extract which is made by grinding the seed and pulp and then mixing them with glycerine. The second method is the commercial way in which the seed, pulp, glycerine and synthetic preservatives are all blended together. Grapefruit extract is believed to have a lot of scope in the health food industry. However one has to be careful as grapefruit can have several interactions with certain drugs like warfarin.

Hawthorne Berry, also called White Thorn, Haw, May Blossom, Hay Berry and May Day Flower. Hawthorne Berry is red in color and comes from a spiny tree called the hawthorne shrub. Hawthorne Berry is believed to be good for the heart and is commonly used to expell excess salt from the body to reduce water retention. Hawthorn Berries contain vitamins C and B complex, crataegin, carotene, flavonoids and sugars.

Irish Moss aides in many respiratory conditions.

Oat Bran refers to the external oat grain husk. This is usually discarded in the milling process. This is regrettable as it contains the best of the dietary fiber and also has good amounts of minerals. The grains are normally marketed as whole grain, but oat bran is sold separately. Nowadays, oat bran is available in the markets easily. The cereal grains have three parts namely, the bran, endosperm and the germ. The endosperm is used in making white flour. The germ is nutrient rich and is usually extracted in association with the bran. The bran is highly rich in fiber and also protects the grain thereby offering nutrition and fiber to the plant. Oat bran is used as additive in baked goods such as muffins as it has a rich and distinctive texture with a nutty flavor. Oat bran is added to breads owing to its fiber content. It also is supplemented to breakfast cereals. Cooks also supplement oat bran to scones, cookies and pancakes. The fiber content is truly very beneficial in decreasing the levels of cholesterol and is a preventative for various cancer forms. It is integrated to make a healthy diet.

Peppermint - All of us are aware of the flavor of Peppermint (Mentha piperita) through gum, chocolates, tea, and toothpastes. It facilitates digestion and is great to soothe an upset stomach. It is also used to treat headaches and depression-related anxiety due to its calming effect. The calming and numbing effect of peppermint has also made it a popular ingredient for treating health problems such as nausea, menstrual cramps, flatulence, colds and flu, and skin irritations. Peppermint has made its way into chest rubs too to treat symptoms associated with common cold. Peppermint is believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties too. It has been found very effective in breaking down gallstones too though doctor's supervision is a must, as it can make certain types of gallstone worse by stimulating the production of bile.

Psyllium Husk, is one of the highest sources of dietary fiber. Psyllium husk is a great colon cleanser, it can absorb up to 50 times its weight with toxins and other items from the intestines.

Red Clover Leaf is native to Asia and the eastern Mediterranean regions. It is found on roadsides and also in lawns. Red clover leaf grows to a height of 16 inches. The leaves are oval in shape with a V mark known as chevron in the center. The red clover flowers are purple in color and are in egg shape. They come as three part leaves. Trifolium is the genus name indicating three leaves. Red clover leaf belongs to the leguminosae family or the pea family. The other members as well include peanuts and beans besides peas. These plants take nitrogen from the environment ad biologically help other plants in growth and fixation. Red clover leaf is used as a mild sedative, expectorant and blood purifier. The tea prepared with this leaf is useful for bronchitis, asthma and respiratory spasms. Red clover leaf is useful for sores, skin ulcers, burns and athlete’s foot. Red clover flowers are useful in wine and in treating menstrual problems.

Red Raspberry Leaf is the best pal of gardeners. This is because though it has small prickles, it gives luscious berries in abundance. This plant is now found in gardens in the North America temperate regions. This plant is indigenous to Asia and Europe as well. They are common fruits used in fruit salads, fruit juices, preserves, jams, breakfast bars, fruit syrups, tarts and many other foods. Ted raspberry leaves have health promoting characteristics. They are filled with vitamin C and phenolic antioxidants namely tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanin pigments. The red raspberry leaf has bitter and harsh flavor, but is excellent with medicinal power. Tea prepared from red raspberry leaf is useful to cure wounds, upper respiratory disorders, colic pain and childbirth difficulties. The leaf tea is good for diarrhea treatment. The tea prepared using red raspberry leaf can be taken five to six times in a day. it has the ability to cure diarrhea as it is rich with tannins and they reduce intestinal inflammation. The raspberry leaf is also an effective mouthwash.

Sage Leaf Extract.

Uva Ursi is obtained from one of nature’s most powerful astringents, Uva Ursi. Uva Usi is a very strong herb and should be used only in those times when an immediate intervention is required. What makes Uva Ursi extract special is that it contains several different chemical compounds which are active against many pathogens found commonly in urinary tract infections. Thus Uva Ursi etract is thus used in many ways including as an antiseptic, astringent, and a diuretic. Using the Uva Ursi extract provides support to the urinary tract, bladder, liver and kidney function. It also helps soothe, strengthen and tighten irritated and inflamed tissues, as well as help treat infections like cystitis, urethritis and nephritis. The Uv Ursi extract is got from the tough leathery leaves of the plant. However since the leaves are almost impervious to water, the best way of getting the extraction is an overnight decoction. Uva Ursi extraction can also be taken as capsules or as a tincture.