Prunes (Dried)

Dried prunes, derived from the dehydrated fruit of the European plum (Prunus domestica), hold a revered place in traditional medicine due to their numerous health benefits and unique qualities. Known for their naturally sweet flavor, prunes are primarily associated with balancing Catabolic body type, providing nourishment and moisture to combat the dryness and irregularity often experienced by individuals with drying imbalances. With their cooling properties, dried prunes also offer relief to those with excess heat in the body, making them suitable for moderating the metabolic type. The rich nutrient profile of dried prunes, including essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, further enhances their reputation as a wholesome and health-promoting food.

In traditional medicine, dried prunes are celebrated for their digestive benefits, particularly as a natural laxative that promotes regular bowel movements and alleviates constipation. The high fiber and sorbitol content work synergistically to support intestinal health and detoxification. Additionally, prunes are recognized for their potential to strengthen bones, thanks to their mineral richness, including calcium and potassium. Overall, dried prunes serve as a versatile and beneficial addition to a balanced diet, nourishing the body while promoting digestive health and overall well-being.

MONOGRAPH OF PRUNES (DRIED)

• Qualities

  CLEAR - Clear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests metabolic toxins.

  GOOEY - Gooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion.

  COLD - Cold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.

  HEAVY - Heavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight.

• Suitable for

  CATABOLIC TYPE - This body type is prone to dryness, feeling cold and light. It's not easy for this body type to gain weight.

  Dried prunes are especially suitable for individuals with the catabolic type. They are moistening and nourishing, helping to combat the dryness. The high fiber content also aids digestion, making them effective in alleviating constipation.

  METABOLIC TYPE - This body type usually has a strong digestion but is prone to overheating. They usually have good muscle tone and healthy weight.

  Dried prunes can be consumed in moderation by those with a metabolic type. Their cooling properties can help balance excess heat. However, excessive consumption may lead to aggravation due to their sweet nature and potential for increasing acidity if taken in large amounts.

  ANABOLIC TYPE - This body type is prone to feeling heaviness, slow digestion and lethargy. A slow metabolism is common.

  Caution Recommended: Dried prunes may not be ideal for individuals with an anabolic body type. Their heavy and sweet qualities can exacerbate their heaviness and stagnation. It’s best for this type to consume them in moderation, particularly if they are managing issues like weight gain or sluggish digestion.

• Taste

  SWEET - Sweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

  (MILDLY) SOUR - Sour refers to anything fermented or acidic.

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Season

  Autumn/Winter

  Feeling of Warmth: Although dried prunes are cooling in nature, their heavy and sweet qualities provide a sense of satiety and comfort, which can be psychologically warming. Consuming nourishing foods that provide energy can be particularly satisfying in the winter months.

• Constituents

  Dried prunes (dried plums) are not only a delicious snack but also packed with a variety of beneficial chemical constituents that contribute to their health-promoting properties. Here are the key chemical constituents found in dried prunes:

  1. Nutrients:

  - Vitamins:

  - Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.

  - Vitamin A: Important for vision, immune function, and skin health.

  - B Vitamins: Including B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B9 (folate), which play crucial roles in energy metabolism and overall health.

  - Minerals:

  - Potassium: Important for maintaining fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve function.

  - Iron: Essential for the formation of hemoglobin and oxygen transport in the blood.

  - Calcium: Supports bone health and various metabolic functions.

  - Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle function and energy production.

  2. Dietary Fiber:

  - Soluble Fiber: Dried prunes are rich in soluble fiber, particularly pectin, which helps regulate digestion, promotes bowel regularity, and supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.

  - Insoluble Fiber: This type of fiber aids in preventing constipation and promoting digestive health.

  ### 3. Natural Sugars:

  - Fructose and Sorbitol: Dried prunes contain natural sugars, including fructose, which provide sweetness, and sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that acts as a natural laxative by drawing water into the intestines.

  4. Phenolic Compounds:

  - Antioxidants: Dried prunes are rich in phenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid, which have antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

  5. Organic Acids:

  - Malic Acid: Contributes to the tart flavor and may help improve digestion and enhance energy production.

  - Citric Acid: Also present in smaller amounts, it helps in digestion and metabolism.

  6. Amino Acids:

  - Dried prunes contain several amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. While not high in protein, they provide a variety of essential and non-essential amino acids.

  ### 7. Water Content:

  - While dried prunes have low moisture content due to the drying process, they still retain some water, which contributes to their chewy texture and helps in hydration.

  Conclusion:

  The chemical constituents of dried prunes make them a nutrient-dense food that supports digestive health, bone strength, and overall well-being. Their unique combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants contributes to their status as a healthful addition to a balanced diet.

• Nutritional Value

TRADITIONAL USES AND MEDICINAL ACTIONS

• Digestion

  ANTACID - Substances that neutralize acidity in the gastrointestinal tract, the stomach in particular.

  ANTIDIPSETIC - A substance that suppresses thirst.

  ANTIEMETIC - Substances reduce nausea or stop vomiting. Generally refreshing, aromatic herbs.

  APPETITE-SUPPRESSANT - Suppresses hunger without causing weight gain.

  APPETIZER - Substances that cleanse the palate & stimulate hunger or desire to eat.

  CARMINATIVE - Stimulates the release of gas. Helpful for bloating or cramping abdominal pain. Propels food downward. Carminatives typically expel gas by relaxing the muscles of the intestines.

  DEMULCENT - Substances that coat or form a soothing film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane.

  STOOL BINDER - A substance that binds stools / stops diarrhea. When used in excess, these herbs and foods can cause constipation.

  -DIGESTIVE - Substances that encourage healthy digestion.

  EMETIC - Substances that cause vomiting and nausea.

  GENERAL LAXATIVE - Promotes a bowel movement. General laxative is an umbrella term that refers to several different types of laxatives.

  -HIGH FIBER LAXATIVE - A class of laxative that adds bulk and water to stools. The large size of the stool stimulates peristalsis so the stool can pass more easily through the colon. It is important to drink plenty of water when using high fiber laxatives, as they can be dehydrating. Bulking laxatives are also best prepared sitting in water overnight like chia seeds for example. High fiber foods have cholesterol-lowering effects.

  HYPOLIPIDEMIC - Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells.

  NUTRITIVE - A substance that is strengthening and nurturing to the whole system.

  NAUSEATING - Brings about feelings of unease and discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied with the involuntary urge to vomit.

  -PREBIOTIC - Substances that have prebiotic effects, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and enhancing overall gut health.

  PURGATIVE - Where general laxatives target the colon, purgatives are strong laxatives that target complete elimination of the small intestine. Use only sporadically as it can be habit forming.

  QUENCHES THIRST - A substance that relives thirst

  RELIEVES BURNING - Substances that soothe a burn or reduce an internal burning sensation.

  -SIALOGOGUE - A sialogogue increases saliva. Sour foods are often great sialogogues, and increase output of all exocrine glands. Salty taste is very moistening as well. Bitter, pungent and sweet tastes also increase salivary output but to a lesser degree.

  SPLEEN TONIC - A substance that strengthens spleen function by improving strength of the blood. Spleen tonics Builds digestive fire, brighten the person's appearances & firms up tissues.

  STIMULANT LAXATIVE - Stimulant laxatives induce bowel movements by stimulating peristaltic movement (the contraction of smooth muscle in the intestines). They are effective when used on a short-term basis. On a long-term basis, they can create dependency. Aka irritant laxative.

  STIMULANTES PERISTALSIS - A substance that promotes involuntary smooth muscle contractions to facilitate the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract.

  STOMACHIC - A substance that increases appetite or settles a nauseas or nervous stomach. These generally increase the digestive fire, therefore relieving symptoms of sluggish or difficult digestion.

  -STOOL SOFTENER - Softens hard and difficult to eliminate stool. Stool softeners are the safest and most gentle type of laxative. Foods that contain fiber also can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.

  WARMS ABDOMEN - Warms the muscles and organs of the abdomen, stimulating digestion and metabolism.

• Reproductive system

  ABORTIFACIENT - An abortifacient is a substance that induces abortion. These herbs are contraindicated in pregnancy.

  ESTROGEN REDUCING - Reduces estrogen, which reduces thickness of the uterus endometrium, pelvic congestive disorders like fibroids, and frequently dysmenorrhea as well.

  PROLACTIN REDUCING - Reduces prolactin, a female hormone that suppresses the uterus, fertility, menstruation.

  TESTOSTERONE REDUCING - Reduces androgen (testosterone), which can reduce excess growth, drive, and libido. Reduces skin oiliness. Helpful for prostate enlargement.

  APHRODISIAC - Substances that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health.

  BUILD SEMEN - Substances that increase the production of semen, often by rebuilding fluids in general.

  CONTRACEPTIVE - Substances that reduce fertility or prevent conception.

  EMMENAGOGUE - Substances which stimulate menstruation. There are different types of emmenagogues and sweet , nourishing emmenagogues are used for scanty menstruation, bitter emmenagogues are used to relieve menstrual pain and pungent emmenagogues are used to improve blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus.

  ESTROGENIC - Increases estrogen, helpful in menopause. Estrogen is anabolic and increases muscle growth, bone density, and moisture.

  GALACTAGOGUE - Increases production of breast milk, often by raising prolactin and diaphoresis.

  INDUCES OVULATION - Substances that encourage ovulation.

  OXYTOCIC - Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions, and prepares the uterus for labor. It has a vasoconstricting effect. Emotionally, it is tribal.

  PARTUS-PREPARATOR - Prepares the uterus for labor & delivery, making contractions more effective. May also relax the mother, reduce pain, improve breast milk, stimulate contractions (oxytocin), build warmth, and nourish blood.

  PROGESTERONIC - Progesterone is the pregnancy hormone. It raises body temperature and suppresses menstruation. It is generally more extroverted.

  PROMOTES FERTILITY - A substance that promotes fertility. Generally used by women who wish to become pregnant. These herbs may also help with menstrual problems of deficiency, such as amenorrhea (lack of a period).

  PROMOTES VIRILITY - Encourages virility and potency.

  RELAXANT PARTURIENT - Used when labor is stalled due to irregular, colicky or spasmodic contractions (hypertonic). Ensures full dilation of cervix.

  STIMULANT PARTURIENT - Used to induce labor when labor is stalled due to weak or ineffective contractions. Includes both stimulants and oxytocic parturients.

  TESTOSTERONIC - Stimulates testosterone

  UTERINE STIMULANT - Causes contractions in the uterus often by stimulating production of oxytocin. These herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy.

  UTERINE TONIC - A substance that tonifies and strengthens the uterus. Helpful for menstrual difficulties and fertility. Often herbs that increase circulation to reproductive system.

• Heart, Blood & Circulation

  ACE INHIBTOR - Used to lower blood pressure. Promotes diuresis by inhibiting angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE).

  ALTERATIVE - Restores the proper function of the body by cleansing the blood and balancing blood chemistry.

  -ANTIOXIDANT - An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions.

  PLATELET AGGLUTINATION- A substance that inhibits clotting, dissolves clots, thins the blood, or destroys platelets, therefore reducing the tendency of blood to form clots. They are useful in cardiovascular disease, clots, and stroke. Aka anticoagulant.

  BLOOD THINNER - Substances that thin the blood. Helpful for people with heart disease or clogged circulation.

  BLOOD TONIC - A substance that produces more blood cells in the body, or otherwise improves blood cell quality or hemoglobin content. Helpful for anemia and other types of deficiency.

  CALMS HEART - A substance that literally calms the heart. These herbs are helpful in the treatment of anxiety, sadness, depression, or other emotional imbalances in the heart.

  CARDIAC STIMULANT - Substances that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area.

  CARDIAC TONIC - Strengthens and tones the heart (heart-tonic). Cardiac tonics are used to treat a wide range of heart issues from arrhythmia, to cardiac insufficiency.

  HEMOSTATIC - A substance that stops bleeding.

  HYPERTENSIVE - A substance that increases blood pressure.

  -HYPOGLYCEMIC - lowers blood sugar

  HYPOTENSIVE - A substance that lowers blood pressure.

  OPTHALMIC - Benefits the eyes, vision tonic.

  REBUILDS ELECTROLYTES - Substances that increase your electrolyte balance. Electrolytes help you retain water, keep your palate moist, and truly quench your thirst.

  REBUILDS FLUIDS - Substances that create moisture in the body and increase fluids.

  REDUCES SECRETIONS - Stops discharges & secretions (examples include sweat, vaginal discharge, diarrhea, urinary, nasal, etc). Commonly astringent or cooling remedies.

  REDUCES SWELLING - Relieves swelling / inflammation.

  REFRIGERANT - A substance that strongly cools the body. Can be helpful in cases of heat conditions.

  STYPTIC - A substance that contracts tissue or blood vessels. Generally styptics are astringent. They are often used topically as a hemostatic to stop bleeding, or to reduce secretions.

  VASODILATOR - A vasodilator is a substance that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.

  VESSEL TONIC - A substance that improves the tone and integrity of blood vessel walls. This is helpful in easy bruising.

  WARMS EARS - Stimulates peripheral circulation to warm extremities, including the ears.

  WARMS HEAD - A substance that increases sensations of heat and warmth in the head.

• Immune/Lymphatic

  ADAPTOGEN - Substances that promote stabilization of physiological processes and homeostasis. Adaptogens increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning.

  ANTHELMINTHIC - Kills parasitic worms (hookworms, tapeworms, roundworms, etc).

  ANTIBACTERIAL - Substances that kill bacteria or slow their growth.

  ANTICARCINOGENIC - Substances that inhibit or prevent the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer.

  ANTIFUNGAL - Substances that destroy fungus.

  ANTIMICROBIAL - An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.

  ANTIPOISONOUS - An antidote for a poison. Many anti-poisonous herbs draw out a poison and are good for insect bites. Others help burn it up.

  ANTIPYRETIC - Reduces a fever.

  ANTISEPTIC - Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. Helpful in infections and for those with weak immune systems.

  ANTIVIRAL - Substances that inhibit the development of viral infections. Antivirals also can be found in essential oils of some herbs, such as eucalyptus oil.

  FLUSHES MEMBRANES - Substances stimulates mucus membranes to release fluids, flushing them out.

  IMMUNE CALMING - Substances that interrupt an allergic reaction or calm the immune system, useful in allergies and autoimmune conditions.

  IMMUNE STIMULANT - Stimulates and strengthens the immune system. Helpful when fighting off a cold or flu.

  -IMMUNE MODULATING - reduces inflammation in the body.

  INTERNAL DETOXICANT - Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system.

  REPAIRS MEMBRANE - Reduces inflammation and allergen reactivity by restoring epithelial barrier function. Repairs tight cell junction in leaky gut, interstitial cystitis, eczema, asthma, etc.

  TOXIC - A substance that causes toxicity in the body, or that harms the body.

• Respiratory

  BRONCHODILATOR - A substance that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.

  CLEAR SINUSES - Cleanses sinuses by draining excess mucus, allowing for clear, easy breathing.

  DECONGESTANT - A substance that reduces mucus production often by restricting blood flow to mucus membranes.

  EXPECTORANT - Expectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract and there are different types of expectorants for different underlying tissue states.

  FLUSHES SINUSES - A substance that relieves sinus congestion by flushing out mucus.

  IRRITATES THROAT - Creates abrasive feeling in the back of the mouth. May stimulate coughing.

  LUNG TONIC - Strengthens the lungs. Lung tonics include antifibrotic, vessel tonic, or nourishing herbs with an affinity for the lungs. They aid recovery in acute or chronic lung conditions.

  MUCOLYTIC - A substance that breaks apart mucus, liquefying the mucus.

  SOOTHES THROAT - Soothes throat discomfort, including from a sore or ticklish throat.

  WARMS CHEST - Warms the chest and lungs, clearing mucus and allowing for clear breathing. Often these herbs are hot, aromatic, and pungent.

• Nervous system

  ANALEPTIC - Stimulates the central nervous system (CNS). Increases alertness. Counteracts the effects of sedatives or other CNS depressants. These are used in dizziness, drowsiness, stupor, coma, or paralysis especially following a concussion or contusion.

  ANALGESIC - Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.

  MOOD BOOSTING - Substances that lift feelings of low mood, benefit the mind and improve mental function.

  ANXIOLYTIC - Substances that help people suffering from anxiety or panic. They promote a state of calm and often improve sleep. Most anxiolytic herbs are also nervines.

  BRAIN TONIC - A substance that strengthens the brain and thereby enhances memory or other cognitive functions and improves mental stamina or stability.

  CHOLINERGIC - Increases acetylcholine production or uptake, improving nerve health, memory, mood, coordination, and protecting neurons.

  DOPAMINERGIC - Dopamine lifts mood, but also reduces prolactin, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and lutenizing hormone (LH).

  IMPROVES FOCUS - Reduces scattered thoughts. Creates a steady mind. Includes substances that relax (for Catabolic) and substances that stimulate (for Anabolic).

  NERVE GROWTH TONIC - Stimulates neurite / axon growth, promotes regeneration.

  NERVE RELAXANT GROUNDING - Encourages feelings of stability and heaviness. Makes you feel settled, mentally relaxed. Mildly sedates the nervous system to ease stress. Can bring a spacey or anxious person back to earth. Reduces agitation, irritation, stress and racing thoughts.

  NERVE STIMULANT - Provide short lived stimulation of the nervous system.

  NERVINE - Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.

  - NEUROPROTECTIVE - Repairs / restores damaged nerves. Protects nerve health.

  NUMBS ANASTHETIC - Inhibits sensation in a particular area.

  RELAXES SOLAR PLEXUS - Soothes and comforts the muscles of the upper abdomen, reducing any tension or pressure in the solar plexus area.

  SEDATIVE - Sedative herbs create a sense of calm in the mind and body by specifically calming or quieting the nervous system. Excellent for anxiety, stress and chronic pain.

  SEROTONERGIC - The feel-good hormone. Also includes serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI).

  STIMULATES BASE-OF-SKULL - Creates a feeling of awareness or tension in the area at the base of the skull.

  STIMULATES CROWN - Creates a feeling of awareness or tension in the area at the top of the head.

  STIMULATES ENERGY - Stimulates thyroid and adrenal function.

  STIMULATES FRONT OF BRAIN - Creates a feeling of awareness or tension in the area in the forehead. Activates the frontal lobe - the area responsible for motor function, emotional expression, thinking, and decision making.

  STRENGTHENS RESOLVE - Reduces stress and building strength.

  WAKES YOU UP - Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy.

• Overall

  FIBROTIC REDUCING - Fibrosis of an organ is often a progressive leading to organ failure (i.e lungs, liver, kidney). While vulneraries usually help restore collagen, antifibrotic herbs often clear collagen. Aka fibrinolytic.

  ANTILITHIC - A substance that dissolves / breaks up stones (gallstones or kidney stones) so that it can be passed.

• Skin

  ANTIPRURITIC - Anti-pruritics are substances that inhibit itching, often associated with skin conditions such as sunburns, allergic reactions, eczema, psoriasis, chickenpox, fungal infections, insect bites, or contact dermatitis (as in poison ivy rashes).

  CAUSTIC - Used to ablate warts. Caution: Use under the guidance of a qualified clinical herbalist.

  DEODORANT - A substance that reduces odor.

  DIAPHORETIC - A substance that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.

  EMOLLIENT - Soothes & softens the skin. Often a topical demulcent or oil.

  PHOTOSENSITIZING - Causes sensitivity to ulta-violet light - useful in psoriasis and cancers.

  REDUCES SWEATING - Suppresses sweating, often by cooling the metabolism, reducing blood flow to the skin, or closing pores.

  REFRESHES SKIN - Flushes the lymphatic system to cool, awaken, and revive the skin.

  RUBEFACIENT - A substance used topically that causes dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation. The skin will appear red or flushed.

  SKIN TONIC - A substance that strengthens and nourishes skin, improving tone, color, moisture and complexion.

  TOPICALLY SOOTHING - Calms and alleviates irritation, discomfort or pain in a particular region.

  VULNERARY - A substance used for the treatment of wounds (antiulcer, connective tissue tonic).

• Kidney/Bladder/Urinary

  ANTI-DIURETIC - A substance that suppresses the formation of urine. They help retain fluids and rehydrate by reducing urination. They oppose diuresis.

  LITHAGOGUE - A substance used to expel stones such as kidney stones or gallstones.

  DIURETIC - Substances that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.

  KIDNEY TONIC - A substance that strengthens the kidneys.

  URINARY TONIC - A substance that tonifies and strengthens the urinary system. These can be helpful for urinary incontinence or improving function after a urinary tract infection. They can also strengthen the bladder to ward off a urinary tract infection.

  WARMS KIDNEY - Warms the kidneys by increasing blood flow to the organ.

• Liver/Gall bladder

  BURNS TOXINS - A substance that detoxifies by helping the body metabolize toxins, as opposted to eliminating them.

  CHOLAGOGUE - Cholagogues stimulate the production & release of bile from the liver & gallbladder. This refreshes and cleanses these organs, as well as increases bile in the small intestines.

  HEPAPROTECTIVE - A substance that is capable of preventing liver damage. Many hepatoprotectives work via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

  HYPOLIPIDEMIC- Scrapes fats / cleanses blood vessels by 1) purging bile, 2) strengthening the liver's ability to metabolize fats, 3) by increasing uptake of cholesterol in the liver, and 4) by inhibiting fat cells.

  LITHAGOGUE - A substance used to expel stones such as kidney stones or gallstones.

  LIVER TONIC - A substance that strengthens the liver. It is helpful for people with a history of substance abuse, chronic liver issues from hepatitis and hemolytic anemias. Generally, liver tonics are oily, cool, sweet, mildly sour, or contain beta-carotene.

  PARTUS PREPARATOR - Prepares the uterus for labor & delivery, making contractions more effective. May also relax the mother, reduce pain, improve breast milk, stimulate contractions (oxytocin) and nourish blood.

• Muscuskeletal

  HAIR GROWTH TONIC - A substance that encourages healthy hair growth.

  ARTHRITIS RELIEVING - Substances that ease arthritic pain and promote joint health.

  -BONE TONIC - A substance that strengthens the bones and joints.

  CHELATES - Binds to toxins such as heavy metals making them more soluble for elimination by the body.

  MUSCLE RELAXANT - regulates muscle contractions and reduces muscle tension.

  MUSCLE TONIC - Supports muscle repair and recovery

• Endocrine

  ADRENAL TONIC - Strengthens, supports, or increases output of adrenals.

  BUILDS STAMINA - Promotes strength, endurance and resistance in the body. Rebuilds weak tissues after a time of depletion.

  NUTRITIVE - A substance that is strengthening and nourishing to the overall body.

  STIMULATES ENERGY - Stimulates thyroid function and adrenals.

  WAKES YOU UP - Invigorates the body and nervous system, increases energy.

TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR THESE SYMPTOMS

Prunes (dried) may be beneficial for these symptoms. The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual.

• Digestion

• Anti aging

• Skin

• Bone, Muscles & Tendons

• Heart, Blood & Circulation

• Reproductive Health

• Kidney, Bladder & Urinary

• Bowel poop elimination

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• Cleanse and detox

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• Energy-Vitality

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• Immune/Lymphatic

• Liver/Gallbladder

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• Male Health

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• Mind, Stress & Sleep

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• Muscle Health

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POSSIBLE CONTRAINDICATIONS

Based on its tastes, Prunes (dried) in excess may aggravate these symptoms.

• Sour Taste

  Blood and Circulation: Alcoholism, Candida / Yeast Infection / Thrush, Chronic Fungus infection, Chronic Infection, Cysts, Enlarged Spleen, Excess saliva, General Inflammation, Hepatitis (Past/Current), Jaundice, Jock Itch, Liver Sore, Puffy hands, Sensitive to Alcohol, Sores on tongue, Sour sweat, Staph infection, Strong body odor, Sweat often, Sweaty palms, Swollen lymph nodes, Swollen lymph nodes - arm pits, Teeth marks / Scallops on tongue edges, Thalassemia Minor, Yellow eyes / sclera, Yellow tongue coating

  Skin: Acne - blackhead, Acne - cystic, Acne - general, Acne - painful, Acne - scars, Acne - whitehead, Athlete's foot, Blisters, Boils, Carbuncle, Clammy Skin, Large pores, Oily Skin Olive or Sallow Skin, Oozing Sores on Skin, Puffy / swollen skin, Ringworm, Ruddy complexion, Skin Infection, Skin problems on Chest, Skin problems on nose, Warts, Yellowish skin

  Poop: 3+ bowel movements a day, Diarrhea, Diarrhea quickly after eating, Explosive elimination, Floating stool, Foul odorous stool, Frothy Stool / with Bubbles, Green stool, Narrow Stool / Stringy Poop - Thin, pencil stool, Orange / Rubbery Stool, Pus in stool, Soft Stool, Stool entirely liquid, no solid pieces, Stool formed, but porous & airy, Stool in mushy pieces mixed with liquid, Stool thick mud, Voiding large quantity of stool, Yellow stool

  Digestion: Anal Itching, Bad breath, Foul taste on tongue, Frequent cavities, Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Hyperacidity, Leaky Gut Syndrome, Pain around belly button, Smelly Gas, Sores inside mouth, Sour cravings, Sour Taste in Mouth, Strong food cravings, Strong hunger, Tonsil Stones, Traveler's Diarrhea, Vomiting Blood, Yellow teeth

  Mind Stress Sleep: Bored easily, Easily insulted / sensitive, Feel judged / criticized, Feel rejected / unliked / unappreciated, I'm different from others / unique, Intense emotions, Migraines, Relationship issues, Self-Mutilation

  Diet: Alcohol 2+ times / week, Dessert after meals, Pizza, Refined sugar, Soda / corn syrup, Tomatoes

  Kidney Bladder Urinary: Bladder / Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Burning / painful urination, Cloudy urine, Dark Yellow Urine, Kidney Infection, Smelly urine

  Bones Muscle: Dandruff, Fibromyalgia, Flabby muscles / Poor tone, Nail / Toe Fungus, Sore muscles / achey

  Reproductive Health: Pain in testicles, Vaginal discharge, White vaginal discharge, Yellow vaginal discharge

  Skin problems in cheeks, Skin problems on chin

  Respiratory Health: Ear pain/infection

  Weight Loss - Pear shape

• Sweet Taste

  Blood and Circulation: Alcoholism, Atherosclerosis, Avoids humidity, Blood dark in color, Blood thick / Congested lymph, Cancer, Candida / Yeast Infection / Thrush, Chronic Fungus infection, Chronic Infection, Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), Cramping back of leg, Diabetes (Adult Onset Type II), Edema, Excess saliva, Fatty Liver, Feet or Ankles Swelling, Fever (Current), Floaters in eye, Gallbladder Inflammation, Gallbladder Removed, Gallstones / Attack, Glaucoma, Heart Attack, Heaviness in heart area, High Blood Pressure, High Blood Sugar, High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides, Insulin Resistance, Jock Itch, Non-healing sore / ulcer, Pins and Needles Hands and Feet, Poor circulation, Puffy face, Puffy hands, Puffy under eyes / Bags, Rosaceae, Smooth patches on tongue surface, Sour sweat, Staph infection, Sticky saliva, Swollen lymph nodes, Swollen lymph nodes - arm pits, Swollen lymph nodes - hips, Swollen lymph nodes - neck, Thick coating tongue, Tingling / Numbness, Tongue frothy on edges, Varicose Veins, Wake up with sleep in eye, Water Retention, Watery Eyes, White tongue coating

  Respiratory Health: Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD), Clear mucus, Cough with mucus / wet cough, Croup, Cystic-Fibrosis, Difficulty expectorating, Ear pain/infection, Emphysema, Green mucus, Large amounts of mucus, Laryngitis, Mold allergy, Mucus Congestion, Mucus/congestion in mornings, Pneumonia, Post nasal drip, Pressure / popping ears, Seasonal allergies / Hay fever, Shortness of Breath, Sinus Headache (Pain in forehead), Sinus Infection, Sinus pain around eyes, Sinus pain in cheeks Sore throat, Strep Throat, Stuffed nose (can't breathe), Swallowing mucus, Thick mucus, Tightness in Chest when Breathing, Waxy clogged ears, Wheezing, White mucus, Yellow mucus

  Weight: Angry when someone eats my food, Binging more than 1x monthly, Can't stop eating once I start, Distress when sweets unavailable, Eat when lonely / depressed, Eating without realizing it, Emotional eating, Fat back of arms, Fat on back, Fat on buttocks, Fat on thighs, Feel overweight, Frequent baking, Gain weight easily, Hypothyroid, Low basal body temperature, Low metabolism, Pear shape, Spending all day in the kitchen, Stocky, round, broad or large, Stomach fat, Trauma-induced overeating, Trips to food stores daily, Trying to lose weight, Uncontrollable compulsion to eat, Uneasy when food unavailable

  Digestion: Bad breath, Dry Mouth / Tongue, Foul taste on tongue, Frequent Burping, Frequent cavities, Frequent Nausea, Gum inflammation, Intestinal Worms / Parasites / Protozoa / Bacteria, Large portions, Limited sense of taste, Lumps on Surface of Belly, Receding gums, Slow, heavy digestion, Steady, moderate appetite, Sweet taste on tongue, Tired after eating, Toothache, Tooth Infection, Vomiting, Vomiting Mucus, Mucus on stool, Sinking stool, General Malaise

  Mind Stress Sleep: Calm, greedy, stagnant, Caring, calm, patient, Conflict makes me depressed, lazy, Confusion / Cloudy Mind, Cry easily, Depressed, Depressed when stressed, Difficulty waking up, Excessive sleep, Fatigue / tiredFeel pain less than other people, Friendships are long lasting, sincere, Homesick, Low energy, Panic Attacks / Anxiety Attack, Sleep deep & long, trouble waking up, Sleep during the day, Slow, monotonous speech, Steady emotions, Tired in morning

  Diet: Burgers/Hot Dogs, Candy, Dairy/milk/cheese/ice-cream, Dessert after mealsEating after 8pm, Fast food 2+ times / week, Fatty fried food, Few leafy greens, Frequent snacking, Meat every day, Peanuts, Pizza, Protein Shakes, Red meat, Refined flours, Refined sugar, Soda / corn syrup, Sweet cravings, Wheat

  Skin: Acne - cystic, Athlete's foot, Cellulite, Fatty deposits/lipoma, Humidity aggravates my skin, Large pores, Oily Skin, Pliable / elastic skin, Puffy / swollen skin, Skin tags numerous, Stretch marks, Thick skin

  Reproductive Health: Breasts Lumpy, Clogged Milk Duct / Breast Infection, Clots in menstrual blood, Insufficient Breast Milk, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Tender breasts near menses, Uterine Fibroids, Vaginal discharge, Vaginal Inflammation, White vaginal discharge, Yellow vaginal discharge

  Bones Muscle: Broad, large chest, Bulky muscles, Dislocated shoulder / ribs / etc, Flabby muscles / Poor tone, Nail / Toe Fungus, Thick Hair, Wide, Heavy Hips

  Kidney Bladder Urinary: Bladder / Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Burning / painful urination, Dark Yellow Urine, Kidney / Bladder Stones, Kidney Infection, Night-time, Urination

  Lifestyle: Lack of exercise, Rich, holds onto money, Sedentary Desk / Computer Job

Prunes (Dried) is recommended for Autumn/Winter. Check out these other Autumn/Winter foods here:

FOODS WITH A SIMILAR NATURE TO PRUNES (DRIED)

Spinach (Raw) may have some medicinal actions in common with these foods. Please keep in mind that qualities such as taste or characteristic may be different.

MORE INFORMATION ON PRUNES

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