Chapparral Leaves Size: 4 oz Estimated to be one of the oldest plants on Earth, Larrea tridentata, or creosote bush, aka Chaparral is native to desert ecosystems in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Chaparral has resinous, evergreen leaves that can be described as pungently aromatic. Chaparral leaf is typically used in topical applications but can also be tinctured, infused in oil or honey, or brewed into tea. Chaparral is claimed to help treat over 50 ailments, including cancer, arthritis, tuberculosis, skin conditions, and the common cold. It’s commonly made into an oral supplement, essential oil, tea, or other homeopathic preparations. Other Benefits: Anticancer Chaparral contains various potent compounds that may interact with cancer pathways. In particular, chaparral leaves and stems contain nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a potent antioxidant linked to tumor regression — the shrinkage of tumors. In one study, treatment with a topical application of chaparral-derived NDGA experienced significantly lowered activity of tumor-promoting agents (TPAs), compared with others who didn’t receive the treatment. Test tube studies have shown similar antioxidant and anticancer effects associated with NDGA. Antiviral activity There are claims that the chaparral herb can prevent the replication of the human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Chaparral contains many different polyphenols called lignans, which are plant compounds that confer health benefits. The lignans in chaparral are believed to block transcription factor Sp1, which is responsible for replicating virus genes. Anti-inflammatory activity Chaparral contains NDGA, an antioxidant that can inhibit lipid peroxidation. This is a process in which molecules called free radicals attack lipids, resulting in cellular damage. Cellular damage may increase the risk of chronic diseases such as neurodegenerative disease. NDGA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve conditions like arthritis, sciatica, headaches, and stomach pain. In one small study, those receiving oral doses of NDGA experienced improvements in stomach ulcers and arthritis-related inflammation, which was attributed to NDGA’s strong antioxidant properties. Organically Grown Organic foods are grown on land that has been free from the use of synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, insecticides or herbicides for at least three years. Before a product can be labeled Certified Organic, farmers and processors must meet certain requirements.
