Abstract: Methods useful for inhibiting growth of a variety of microbes including bacteria and fungi are disclosed. The methods involve contacting a microbe with an inhibitory amount of a zinc chelate. Methods useful for preserving a consumable product are also disclosed.

Abstract: An herbal composition for combating inflammation, comprising therapeutically effective amounts of Japanese knotweed, Devil's claw, grapeskin, and syzygium is provided. Also provided is an herbal composition for treating a cough and/or common cold, comprising therapeutically effective amounts of Japanese knotweed, lobelia, echinacea, slippery elm, Devil's claw, adhatoda, vitamin C, grapeskin, and syzygium. An herbal composition for alleviating menstrual discomfort, comprising therapeutically effective amounts of Japanese knotweed, chaste tree berry, Mexican wild yam, dandelion, Devil's claw, grapeskin, and syzygium is provided. Also provided is an herbal composition for soothing muscles and joints, comprising therapeutically effective amounts of Japanese knotweed, N-acetyl D-glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, D-glucosamine hydrochloride, methylsulfonylmethane, grapeskin, syzygium, and Devil's claw. Methods of using the herbal compositions are also provided.