ALJ - The King of Respiratory Formulations

*Recipes for Success*

ALJ is probably one of the most versatile herbal products I have ever seen. This product can be used as a decongestant, expectorant, lung tonic, stomachic(digestive tract soother), anti-allergenic and anti-catarrhal(mucus eliminator).
I have used the ALJ for almost every type of respiratory issue you can think of, and I consider one of the best "all round" formulas around. Yet the herbs contained in ALJ go beyond just working with respiratory system. ALJ is comprised of 5 herbs that are mixed in a proprietary blend (meaning secret amounts). The 5 herbs are Boneset, Horseradish, Mullein, Fennel, and Fenugreek. Each one of these herbs work synergistically together to create a wonderful effect for the body. Let's take a deeper look.

1. Boneset - Boneset got it's name from being used by the Native Americans for help in mending broken bones. It also was used for deep bone pain that many go thru in severe flu like symptoms as well. Boneset is extremely bitter, which tells us a lot about it's medicinal properties. Bitter herbs almost always have some kind of antibiotic effect in the body. They also stimulate production of bile and enhance detoxification of the liver. Boneset is most well known for treating fever and flu, along with bronchitis. A study also found that using Boneset in homeopathic form offered fever reducing properties that worked equally as effective as Aspirin. This tells us a lot about Boneset and it's anti-inflammatory actions.
2. Fennel Seeds - Fennel is often used as a expectorant, and bronchodilator for treating colds and coughs. Fennel also is recognized for it's antibacterial, immune modulating, pain relieving and fever reducing properties. Fennel has also been shown to help in delayed reaction allergies as well. However, Fennel can be used for more than lung issues. Fennel is also a great herb for calming the stomach or digestive tract and works wonderful for colic in babies.
3. Fenugreek Seeds - Fenugreek helps to increase the production of mucosal fluids to expel allergens and toxins from the  respiratory tract. Fenugreek acts as an antispasmodic, and expectorant to help
stop chronic coughs. Fenugreek also stimulates digestion to help with assimilation of nutrients. It offers anti-inflammatory properties for the digestive tract as well for everything from gastritis, to ulcers and even convalescence. Fenugreek is even a favorite of mid-wives everywhere for helping to support breast milk production too!
4. Horseradish Root - Horseradish has warming effects that stimulate the thinning of mucus and increase circulation to the lungs. It has been used in Europe and North America for treatment of coughs, flu, and congestion. Research shows that Horseradish exhibits antimicrobial activity. In ALJ horseradish works like a catalyst for the other herbs.
5. Mullein Leaves - Mullein is a big beautiful plant with lung shaped leaves! It has soothing properties for the lungs and topically offers pain relief for boils, burns, sores, wounds, and rheumatic pains. Mullein helps to lubricate tissues, reduce inflammation and speed healing. Mullein offers analgesic, diuretic, antiseptic, and antibacterial benefits. This supports is use in may ailments that we would commonly deal with from pain to infection and respiratory issues.

Overall the intent of this combination is to relieve congestion while supporting the digestive tract which is linked directly to the respiratory system. While relieving the body of congestion it nourishes the body with beneficial nutrients at the same time.
ALJ is an extremely safe and very user friendly. In fact, we have doses that are safe for babies, and adults and animals. ALJ is usually recommended 2-3 capsules 3x daily. However, when working with your local herbalist the doses may go a lot higher depending on what we are working to get rid of or change in the body. ALJ is an herbal remedy you never want to be without. It is a brilliant combination that every home should have as a part of your arsenal. I hope you enjoy today's *Recipe for Success*!