Existence without plants and animals is unimaginable for the human kind.

Many thousands of years ago humans and animals alike were feeding on plants and using their medicinal properties for traumas and illnesses. According to the fossils form stone and bronze ages, it is now a fact that first humans used many plants, roots, minerals, and animal parts in order to get well.

Later on, in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Greece, and Rome this clear relation of the healing properties of plants to the universe such as a cycle known as: plant-soil-air-sun-universe-human-plant, can be seen in the stone graphics preserved from thousands of years before Christ. The first inscriptions found in India date back more than 9000 before Christ, with Chinese stone inscriptions following which are also more than 4000 years old before Christ.

Chinese Traditional Medicine still up to these days states the importance of healing techniques based on balancing the five elements: water, air, wood, metal, and soil. There is a clear reference to the galaxy from elements such as dark and light / Yin and Yang (sun and planets, life and death, wellness and disease). One always affects the other and that is why all the elements are interconnected, and if one element goes out of balance then it will affect all the others.

I would like to present you with healing characteristics of some plants, vegetables, and fruits for your basic knowledge and understanding about the benefits which the universe provided us with, these benefits can be found in your back yard and used successfully for numerous ailments. I will tell you why I concentrated specifically on those listed here, amongst hundreds which I use in my practice. I was very fortunate to get my hands on books by Dr. Thomas D. Morison, which date back to 1830s. This doctor, forgotten by many of my colleagues was a British national who spent years of his life in Russia, Mongolia, Himalayas, China, and India.

It was him who was researching and investigating not only physical (like so many do), but also the spiritual properties of these plants, these spiritual properties were acquired from many folk healers who he personally associated with during his long years of research. He stated the clear connection between the appearance of many plants to the shapes of human organs, and later used them successfully to treat the very same organs affected.

Did you know that the shape of the pear closely resembles the shape of the gallbladder, and the shape of the inner portion of a fig closely resembles the intestinal tract, a bunch of grapes look like the clusters of alveoli, and the walnut appears similar to the brain and thyroid gland? In fact, I would like to tell you that I am very appreciative to all his work, as much of my knowledge of herbology is directly related to it. The reason for that is due to all his theories and descriptions related to the healing properties of these plants closely match the ones I observed during the twenty years of my practice and clinical observations.

He was one of the very first to state the importance of facts related to the connection between numerous chronic illnesses and intoxication of the human body on the mental and physical levels. Many classical homeopaths would be outraged with the use of such tinctures, unrecognized by many due to a deviation from the Hahnemann’s rule of using a single correct remedy matching all the observed symptoms.

The main reason why I choose such a treatment approach is due to the fact of an ever growing increase of toxic loads on the human body. Since the time of Hahnemann they did not have so many people using chemotherapy, antibiotics, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antihistamins, anti-inflammatory drugs, genetically modified foods, lipstics, dishwasher detergents, cellular phones, microwaves, root canal treatments, etc. Therefore, the needed response form a single homeopathic remedy would be hard to choose (due to numerous symptoms from all the above), and even though if chosen correctly would take too much time to get an appropriate response (anywhere between 5-7 months).

In my practice today many of my patients are unwilling to wait too long and require fast changes, I understand this desire and this is one of the reasons why I use the Din therapy (drainers listed below), which significantly increases the speed of recovery, due to its detoxification mechanisms it allows the organism to have a “softer” response to a homeopathic treatment. I do not take away their right to use a single prescription, but in my practice this approach was found to be very successful in about 70-80 % of all cases, and that is why I am a strong supporter of this method, which was first developed, used, and documented by Dr. Thomas D. Morison.

Artichoke tincture (Cynara Scolymus)

This wonderful vegetable was consumed 5000 years ago in Egypt, and more recently in ancient Greece and Rome. It was considered a rare delicacy in the Roman Empire and was very expensive. After the fall out of the Roman Empire it was almost forgotten and was not re-discovered until the crusades. It combines vitamins A, B, and C, as well as numerous other microelements and minerals such as silica, graphites, potassium, phosphorus, nickel, cobalt, and others. It is useful for the treatment of arteriosclerosis, it provides certain properties which help to lower the levels of cholesterol build up. Many homeopaths had used it successfully for the conditions associated with the disease of liver and gallbladder. That is why it is still served in Italy with the “heavy” types of foods such as pasta, to lighten the load on the liver. It is a useful remedy when the patient presents us with symptoms of urinary tract disorders, in particular fluid retention in the body. Another wonderful aspect of this vegetable is the balancing properties of PH levels in the gastrointestinal tract and stimulating of the brain function.

Broccoli tincture (Brassica Oleracea)

Broccoli sprouts have been long known for its healing properties, it was used by doctors in the Roman Empire and later in Italy and France. It has abundant amounts of vitamins C, A, E, PP, Folic acid, B2, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur. Broccoli is well known as an anti-cancer agent, and provides excellent regenerative properties for patients who were either sick for a long period of time, or had undergone a serious surgical procedure. Broccoli contains abundant pantothenic acid and vitamin A. For thousands of years broccoli extracts were used successfully for patients affected with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disorders. Recent studies by the University of Saskatchewan had shown that daily use of fresh broccoli sprouts causes the body to produce a substance called sulphoraphane, which triggers the production of phase 2 enzymes. These enzymes can detoxify cancer-causing chemicals and are among the most potent anti-cancer compounds known to us today. The use of fresh broccoli extracts have been showing to drastically decrease the development of colon cancer in the susceptible individuals.

Cabbage tincture (Brassica Capitata)

Cabbage is considered by many as the queen of the vegetable kingdom. It came to the rest of Europe from the ancient Greece, Macedonia, and Rome. One Roman healer stated: “if raw cabbage juice, which is taken daily for 33 days, will not help this sick gladiator, then he should be killed as all the treatment funds will go to waste and nothing else will be as effective”. It contains unique forms of vitamins and minerals: A, B1, B2, B6, C, folic and tantronic acid, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron. It is also rich in fibre and nitrogenous compounds known as indoles. Cabbage extracts have been proven to kill certain viruses and bacteria in the laboratory environment. Cabbage boosts the immune system and causes it to produce more antibodies. Due to its high content of iron and sulphur, it is an excellent choice for the cleansing of the digestive system. Throughout history, the Asian diet has been rich and abundant in cabbage and its varieties. Epidemiological studies indicate that breast cancer and prostate cancer rates are significantly lower in Asians comparing to their European and American counterparts.

Cucumber tincture (Cucumis Sativus)

Cucumber was introduced into Europe from northern India where it was cultivated as early as 3000 before Christ. The amount of vitamins is slightly lower in cucumbers than for example cabbage, however due to its high component of water and great taste it is one of the most popular vegetables today. It has a good amount of minerals such as: organic acids, potassium salts, calcium, natrium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc. It also has significant amounts of vitamins C, B1, B2, PP, H, P. Ancient healers found cucumbers to be particularly effective in combinatory style treatment of kidney and gallbladder disease. Recent research in Japan has indicated that a high consumption of fresh cucumber juice has a very positive effect on function of nephrons which are important organs of metabolism and water reabsorbtion in the kidneys. In Russian and Ukrainian folk medicine cucumbers were frequently used for constipation, intestinal and stomach disorders, cardiovascular disorders, pulmonary disease, haematomas, liver overload, and decreased or increased libido.

Beet tincture (Beta Vulgaris)

Wild grown beets can be still found today in Iran, India, and China. It was introduced to Europe by Macedonian troops who had encountered this delicate vegetable during the conquest of the Persian Empire more than 2000 years ago. Beets are good choice for somebody deficient of vitamins and minerals as it is very rich in vitamins B1, B2, B6, niacin, C, A, beta carotene, P, as well as excellent source of minerals: sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, sulphur, chlorine, iodine, iron, copper, and amino acids. It has been reported to be very beneficial by numerous healers throughout the history. The personal doctor of Alexander Macedonian was one of the first to use raw beet juice for the regenerative purposes for wounds which were common after numerous battles. Beets contain high amounts of iron, and therefore is one of the best sources of rebuilding healthy count of red blood cells and platelets. It is still widely used for conditions such as: anaemia, digestive disorders, constipation, circulatory disorders, kidney and gallbladder disorders, and liver disorders. Furthermore, it is beneficial for obesity, diabetes, headaches, and removal of accumulated toxins and heavy metals from kidneys and liver. The latest research took place in Hungary where cancer patients were given beet extracts on the regular basis, many of them have been freed of cancer after prolonged use, however, the particular agent containing anti-cancer properties could not be identified by the scientists.

Pumpkin tincture (Cucurbita Maxima)

Pumpkin was introduced to Europe by the Spanish conquistadors who encountered it in the central and south America. Ancient Incas were reportedly consuming pumpkin 3000 years before Christ. It is very rich in many vitamins and minerals: vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, PP, E, and minerals such as iron, silica, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, cobalt, and others. It was found to be very beneficial for the disorders of the large intestine and its seeds are well known for their anti-parasitic properties. It is an excellent remedy for cardiovascular disorders, metabolic disorders, tuberculosis, kidney and liver disorders, skin problems, inflammation of the prostate, impotence, and anxiety. Raw pumpkin juice and seed extracts were found to be very beneficial for regulation of blood sugar balance and thus beneficial effects on pancreas. Therefore it is widely used by many natural healers for diabetes and hypoglycaemia. It also promotes discharges from lungs, bronchi, and throat, hence regular use has been shown to benefit bronchial asthma. Since the dark ages different family of squash members were used to rid the intestines of worms and parasites with good results, however the use of seeds seem to provide best effects when treating the patient infected with different types of parasites.

Apple tincture (Pyrus Malus)

Apples were known to be cultivated even prior to ancient Egyptians, it is rich in vitamins A, B1, C, and has an abundance of natural fibre. It is also a good source of many minerals and microelements such as: iodine, silica, magnesium, zinc, sodium, natrium, potassium, nickel, molebdumen, cobalt, chloride, and iron. Apples are very beneficial for various gastrointestinal disorders, they have excellent properties which regulate the function of kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. One apple in the morning and one apple prior to bed will almost guarantee you a healthy digestive apparatus. Furthermore, it had positive reports from patients affected with low red blood cell count, cardiovascular disorders, kidney and gallstones, diabetes, obesity, and flu infections. According to latest research in Austria, it is very beneficial for the lungs and provides specific properties which protect the lungs from cigarette smoke. It also regulates appetite, helps indigestion, this ability is due in part to the presence of malic and tartaric acids, which inhibit the growth of ferments and disease producing bacteria in the digestive tract. Apples contain pectin, which removes cholesterol, toxic metals such as lead and mercury, and the residues of radiation. Apples are also good for liver and gallbladder, actually softening gallstones, and benefit low blood sugar condition and the depression associated with it.

Blueberry tincture (Vaccinium Myrtillus)

It was recently found by the team of researchers from Tufts University in Boston that the diet rich in blueberry extract improved short term memory loss and reversed loss of coordination in aging rats. Furthermore, it was used for generations for the treatment of cardiovascular disease as blueberries preserve the bioavailability of nitric oxide. It has abundant amounts of vitamins and minerals such as: B1, B2, PP, C, A, sodium, iron, calcium, natrium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, radium, chromium, zinc, alkaloids, and others. It is also high in pectin, therefore a good choice for removal of heavy metals and toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. It was used long ago for symptoms associated with diabetes, circulatory disorders, metabolic disorders, spasms, anaemia, vision problems, formation of stones in kidneys and gallbladder. It controls excessive and frequent urination, and more importantly treats impotence, involuntary seminal emissions, spermatorrhea, and premature ejaculation. For women, it strengthens the uterus, checks excessive menstrual flow, and restrains bleeding in general. Lastly, it is of an exceptional benefit for tonifying the uterus and supporting optimal hormonal patterns during pregnancy.

Fig tincture (Ficus Carica)

Fig tree was mentioned several times in Bible and originated 4000 years ago in the ancient Babylon from where it found its way into Egypt and into the ancient Greece and Rome. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as: A, B1, B2, C, PP, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and organic acids. It influences the stomach, spleen, pancreas, and moistens the lungs with large intestine. It is famous for detoxification properties and frequently used for boils and other skin discharges. It is one of the most alkalizing fruits, it balances the acidic conditions that result from diet rich in animal fats and carbohydrates. Fig tincture is frequently prescribed for common flu, and gastrointestinal problems. In Egypt up to these days, natural healers prescribe juice from fresh fig for gastritis, and constipation, it is said that if one poorly reacts to the products such as cheese, milk, meats, and eggs, a couple of fresh figs taken daily will solve all the problems. It is known to have very beneficial effects on the function of kidneys and for problems associated with kidney stones. This fruit is an excellent choice for supporting the cardiovascular system as it improves blood circulation and aids in the process of relaxing blood vessels and arteries. In ancient Rome it was one of the first choices among legionnaires and gladiators as it was believed that fig fruits provide strengths and healthy function of brain. “One will know when is the right time to strike his enemy and when is the right time to protect himself”, said one famous Roman healer.

Grape tincture (Vitis Vinifera)

Grapes have been known to human kind even prior to Babylonian civilization. It has been discovered in the archaeological fossils that grapes were cultivated by humans as far back as 9000 years ago. Tremendous amount of work and knowledge was put into this famous delicate fruit by many generations of growers. It contains many vitamins and minerals: C, B1, B2, B6, B12, PP, P, folic acid, and K. It is very rich in phosphorus and silica, thus contributing to better assimilation of nutrients from foods. It contains valuable cell salts known to build and purify the blood, and to improve the cleansing function of the glands. It is very beneficial for kidneys and liver, it strengthens their corresponding tissues: the bones and sinews. It is used for treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, urinary disorders, and liver malfunctions such as hepatitis and jaundice. Furthermore, this wonderful fruit has numerous antitoxic and antibacterial properties: in ancient Greece and more recently in med-evil France the juice from grapes and its seeds were given to people infected with parasites, the treatment was very successful, hence the French royal family quickly adopted the healing techniques which were frequently used among its members affected with stomach complains.

Pear tincture (Pyrus Domestica Medic)

Pear trees were common decoration on the walls of ancient Roman aristocrats. It is known as sweet and refreshing fruit. It is also known for its rich vitamin content: A, C, B2, PP, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, and especially iodine. It is believed to be very beneficial for any problems associated with lungs, as it eliminates excess mucus, moistens the lungs, and improves the intake of oxygen and its distribution to tissues. It is also used in diabetes, injuries to the skin, constipation, loss of voice, and gallbladder inflammation and obstruction. Pears are rich in pectin and many organic acids which make a poor living condition for pathogenic micro organisms and parasites. A substance called Arbutin is also present in pears, this substance kills or immobilizes all the bacterial species which contribute to the inflammatory processes of kidneys and bladder. It has been a very popular remedy for treatment of all kinds of urinary tract infections in the Byzantine Empire and Turkey. Fresh pear juice was used in the Ottoman Empire for inflammation of the prostate, and thus became a preventive medicine for the male aristocrats who were taking it regularly after the age of 40-45.

Strawberry tincture (Fragaria Moschata)

This fruit originated long ago from wild berries and humans long consumed it as a wild fruit until the expansion of city land became needed, which forced the reduction of forests where the berries were growing. This led to the cultivation of different berry family members by humans. First cultivations originated in France, England, and Denmark in 1700, and later spread into East Europe and the Americas. Strawberry is now considered one of the berries which combines many healing and nurturing properties. It is rich in vitamins and minerals: C, K, E, P, folic acid, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, cobalt, and iodine. It is considered one of the best remedies for rebuilding healthy blood, even though it is not very rich in iron, but because of unexplained combination of iron, vitamin C, K, E, and magnesium in a special interrelation, it creates great amount of platelets, and red blood cells. Strawberries are a source of many bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and related plant phenolics, these provide numerous antioxidant properties and prevent cancer.

This fruit is especially rich in vitamin C and silicon, therefore providing countless benefits for arterial and all connective tissue repair and regeneration. Strawberries are some of the top when it comes to the drainage and elimination of toxic accumulations from the organism. It improves metabolism, dissolves kidney and gall stones, and aids in excretion of toxic chemicals accumulated in kidney and gallbladder. It has been shown to provide positive effects for all the conditions associated with thyroid gland as it is an excellent source of iodine, therefore normalizing the thyroid function. Its healing properties for toothaches and gastrointestinal inflammation were recorded by Vikings who settled in Denmark: “when your gums start bleeding and pain in the mouth arises so that you cannot eat, take fresh wild berries, keep them in the jar, and 30 days later rinse your mouth regularly with its juice”.

Stinging nettle tincture (Urtica Urens)

This common plant can be easily found in moist areas of the forests, backyards, along the highways, and in any other areas where the soil is rich in nitrates. Many people are unaware of the healing properties of this stinging plant, remedies are prepared from leaves, stems, and roots. Urtica Urens is rich in numerous vitamins and minerals: B1, B2, C, E, K, PP, phenolic and carbonic acids, flavanoids, alkaloids, chlorophyll, silica, iron, zinc, potassium, bromium, titanium, and nickel. It is especially rich in vitamin K1 which is contained mainly in the leaves. It is famous for rebuilding healthy blood count and improving the immune system. It is due to the high amounts of vitamin K1, which stimulates the synthesis of prothrombin in the liver. Its high amounts of chlorophyll improve the metabolism as it is very beneficial for the cardiovascular system and the lungs. It has been found during the research taking place in UK that regular use of Urtica Urens tincture increases the amounts of erythrocytes in the blood, thus decreasing the glucose amounts in the blood, helps regenerating the gastrointestinal tract and normalizes the menstrual cycle. It was known to be a very effective medicine among native Indian tribes living in North America, it is still used successfully for conditions such as gastritis, iron deficiency anaemia, diabetes, rheumatism, kidney stones, vitamin deficiencies, chronic constipation, hepatitis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, eczema and skin complains.

Plantago tincture (Plantago Major)

This common plant can be found in forests, farms, near the rivers and lakes, and in the large open grassed areas where the soil is usually moist. It is very rich in irydoids and flavanoids, phenolic and carbonic acids, polyssacarides, pectin, vitamins C and K1. It is one of the top remedies used for bronchitis, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and other lung conditions associated with mucous discharges. Nonetheless, it was also recorded to be very beneficial for numerous gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis, eneterocolitis, chronic indigestion, bloating, gas, constipation. Some homeopathic doctors have used it very successfully for patients affected with nephritis and inadequate functions of the kidneys. Similarly to Urtica Urens, this common inhabitant of grassed fields is also an excellent choice when it comes to the remedies selected for the detoxification process. The only major difference between the two is that Plantago is a first choice for lung and gastrointestinal systems detoxification, while Urtica Urens is preferable for cleansing of the liver, gallbladder, and blood. It is indicated as a remedy for treatment of the colon and lung cancer, foul smells from the breath and stools, and infection / inflammation of the bladder. It has been reported that the successful use of Plantago significantly improved involuntary urinary discharges at night and haemorrhoids among many of the patients who were undergoing treatment in the homeopathic hospital in Switzerland during the 1990s, since then the hospital had implemented its use for numerous patients affected with urinary tract disorders.

Siberian Ginseng tincture (Eleutherococcus)

This mysterious plant with its famous roots was used for different healing techniques by the ancient Siberian tribes, Mongolian tribes, but also in Russia, China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in the quiet taiga forests of the Far East. Only the roots of this famous plant are used for the therapeutic purposes, red and hard roots are considered the most beneficial for health and are picked in early August. It contains many useful vitamins such as C, B1, B2, B12, Biotin, folic acid, glucosides, daucosterol, acanthosides, A, B, B1, C, D, E, isofraxidinglucosides, ethyl-a-D-galactoside, syringaresinol glucoside, syringin, and hyperin. Numerous studies have been conducted in Japan, Korea, China, and Russia which show that Eleutherococcus roots help the body to adapt to stressful situations, from either internal or external causes. It increases endurance, concentration, enhances oxygen metabolism in tissues and organs, improves digestion, improves the functions of the kidneys, and enhances the overall resistance to disease by strengthening the immune system. It has been found to play a supportive role in the conditions which affect the adrenal system as it was used long ago by the Siberian tribes who used it regularly for people who experienced conditions directly related to poor function of the adrenals. More recent studies conducted in Europe show that it is useful in acute kidney infections, chronic fatigue, immune dysfunction syndrome, and general exhaustion. Furthermore, it has been shown to bind to progestin, estrogen, mineralcorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors and was very effective in patients with hypotension, malignant arrhythmias, post radiation effects, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. In Russia it is used as a prescription medicine under the medical umbrella and frequently prescribed by many medical doctors for patients affected with poor immune system, elderly, pilots, etc. and for the patients who had undergone either chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

Crushed Live Ants tincture (Formica Rufa)

This homeopathic remedy has been used by natural healers throughout Europe for hundreds of years, yet there had been no adequate research conducted in regards to the healing properties of this remedy. The way it is traditionally prepared: live red ants are picked, crushed, and put in the jar with alcohol / water additions. This dilution is kept sealed and away from the rays of the sun for several months until it is ready fro homeopathic dilution. Next it is diluted according to the individual needs of the patient. In my practice I have used this medicine successfully for the following conditions: gout and articular rheumatism, stiffness in joints, tuberculosis, carcinoma, lupus, and chronic nephritis. The common patient who is a good candidate for this particular remedy would usually present me with the following symptoms: itching in the armpits or groin, rheumatic pain in the elbow, knee, and hip joints, general weakness of the whole muscular system, and cramps in the feet. It is obvious that there must be some naturally occurring chemical and organic substances in the live ants which play such a positive role in patients affected with the above listed conditions, however due to the lack of any scientific research there are no indications of the exact components at this time.

Dandelion tincture (Taraxacum Officinale)

This perennial plant is familiar to everyone by yellow headed blossoms, they can be commonly found in lawns around the world. It has jagged, lance-shaped dark green leaves, in all seasons it produces yellow flower heads, which are later followed by spherical seed heads. Each tiny beige colored seed has a parachute like appearance which can fly and ride on the slightest bridge. Traditionally it was used in the folk medicine for centuries, natural healers used it for acne, anaemia, diabetes, gall stones, urinary tract infections, menstrual cramps and pains. Since Biblical times, Dandelion was known for cleansing of liver, digestive organs, and purifying the blood. Currently it is still widely used in India and China as a traditional medical herb frequently prescribed for various liver ailments. It is rich in taraxanthin, flavonoids, pectin, fatty acids, ascorbic acid, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. In Germany, this herm is now approved by the German Health Commission as a remedy for gallbladder problems, kidney stones, liver congestion, and urinary tract infection. Huge amounts of research has been done in regards to this wonderful and mysterious plant in Germany, UK, Denmark, and Norway, many scientists are still surprised with such medicinal effects and nutritional compose. Its dual kidney and liver action makes dandelion tincture as one of the first choices when it comes to draining toxins from the liver and kidneys. Studies about this plant were also conducted in Italy by Dr. Vivarelli (1938), they clearly showed the liver healing properties of the dandelion for conditions such as hepatitis, jaundice, and indigestion for those with inadequate bile secretions. It is   still commonly used in Russia, Mongolia, and Northern China in its raw form with hot water as a drink aimed to relieve numerous health concerns.