There are two main cause of aging. One is cell and tissue damage caused by free radicals that aren't neutralized. The other is a reduced immunity that puts the body at risk for disease. Herbal remedies can help fight these aging actions.

Adding anti-oxidants (that fight free radical) to the diet is the best remedy for aging. Fresh fruit and vegetables, organically grown if possible, should be consumed daily. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and sprouts insure free-flowing digestion. Flax, sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds help rid the body of parasites. Cultured foods including yogurt, cheese, tofu, wine, and raw sauerkraut are beneficial.

Sea-weeds provide needed enzymes and can easily be added to soups and sauces. There are many kind on the market today. Kelp and bladderwort have a salty taste. Yakama, kombu, and sea palm are sweeter. Nori and arame are slightly sour.

Fish and seafood should be included in the diet to enhance metabolic balance. Plenty of water, herbal teas, and green drinks are recommended to keep the system alkaline. Poultry, meat, butter, eggs, and dairy should be eaten in moderation. Fried food, caffeine, red meat, and refined foods should be avoided. Reducing dietary fat and limiting exposure to air pollution, toxic substances, tobacco, and rancid foods can significantly reduce free radical damage.

Herbs that fight free radical damage include pine bark, grape seed, ginko biloba, shiitake mushroom, raishi mushroom, astragalus, alfalfa, evening primrose, black currant, borage, Echinacea, Hawthorne , and licorice.

Herbs that strengthen the immune system include ginseng, guto-kola, burdock, bilberry, and cayenne.

Exercise is important for strengthening the immune system. Exercise strengthens the muscles, nerves, blood, glands, lungs, heart, brain, mind and mood. Good metabolism is optimized by exercise. A little exercise makes a big difference.

Stretching only takes a few minutes but can help regenerate tissue and clear the body of waste. Stretching improves circulation, energy, strength, enzyme function, and reduces stress.

As we age, our skin loses its youthful appearance. Wrinkles, dryness, and age spots appear. For prominent age spots and wrinkles use lotion that contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids. One tablespoon of elderflowers or chopped parsley mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice is an old recipe for banishing age spots. Add a little water if needed to form a paste. Apply the lotion three times a day, leave on for five minutes each time, and rinse each application with water. Repeat the process regularly for two or three month.

Lactic acid in milk, citric acid in fruit, glycolic acid in sugar cane, and malic acid in pears and apples are other examples of hydroxy acids and are used in many skin rejuvenation remedies. Milk baths, fruit masks, and honey lotions have been used in various cultures for thousands of years.

* Some people may experience side effects such as burning, skin irritation, redness, and possible scarring from the use of alpha-hydroxy acids. Alpha-hydroxy products cause sun sensitivity. Always apply sunscreen before going outside when using any alpha-hydroxy acid.