If one of your New Year’s resolutions just happened to be a renewed commitment to see what is out there in the world of nutrients and supplements that might benefit some aspect of your health that you believe needs attention. Well, we’re help to help you, and we’re going to do it alphabetically. Periodically, we’ll choose a letter and identify several supplements, herbs or other types of nutrients that we believe you should know more about and introduce you to them. So we spun the dial and this time it landed on the letter “E”. So here are four excellent supplements that start with the letter “E”.
Echinacea is an herb native to the continental U.S., and has a centuries-old history as a natural remedy. It is known for supporting the immune system. Multiple strains exist, but Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia are the most common (and a particularly good echinacea supplement has both ingredients). Supplementing with echinacea can help the immune system defend against both viruses and bacteria. It is a great supplement to help prevent or treat the symptoms of a cold. Echinacea can also help defend against urinary tract infections, ear infections, and other types of infection.
EDTA, short for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, is a supplement that serves a very specific purpose: removing toxic heavy metals and lead from the body. EDTA does so through a chemical process known as chelation. If you have consumed some amount of toxic metals, then supplementing with EDTA could play a part in helping your body recover. EDTA could also help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health. This compound could have side effects and can interact with some medications, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before taking it.
Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil, made from the oil of the oval-shaped leaves of the eucalyptus tree. There are multiple benefits you can attain from eucalyptus oil. Firstly, applying this oil to the chest and gently rubbing it in can relieve a persistent cough, as well as help clear up mucus if you have a cough that is unproductive. Eucalyptus oil can also improve breathing for those with asthma or sinusitis; It can be added to steam and gently inhaled to improve breathing. Among other potential benefits, eucalyptus oil can also reduce the joint pain associated with arthritis.
Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, native to North and South America. It contains omega-6 fatty acids and can provide multiple benefits. Evening primrose oil could reduce the symptoms of some inflammatory diseases, including eczema and rheumatoid arthritis. It could also be of specific help to women, as studies show that taking evening primrose oil can improve the symptoms of PMS, as well as menopause symptoms.
Eyebright, scientifically deemed Euphrasia officinalis, is an herb that is rich in flavonoids and other natural, beneficial compounds. Its name comes from its most prominent use, which is that of relieving eye inflammation and associated symptoms. Studies show that eyebright could help relieve redness, swelling, and irritation associated with eye inflammation resulting from sun damage, pollen, and other environmental factors. Eyebright also has the potential to combat oxidative stress in the body, and work against harmful bacteria.
Consider these five excellent supplements as you ponder your dietary and health needs in 2024. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.