Simplifying Your Life -Part Five
Useful Herbs for Beginners
Aloe - The gel of the inner part of an aloe leaf is used to
treat burns, skin rashes, and insect bites, as well as
chafed nipples from breastfeeding.
Apply it to the affected area externally. It aids in healing
wounds by drawing out infection, and preventing infection
from starting. The fresh gel is best to use, rather than
"stabilized" gels found in the stores. The fresh gel was
used by Cleopatra to keep her skin soft and young.
Break off a piece of plant cut open and apply the inside
gel to the burn or wound, keep it in place with band-aid
or tape.
Apple Cider Vinegar - Some benefits reported are: weight loss & suppressing the appetite, boosting the immune system, acts as antiseptic and antibiotic, rich source of amino acids & rich in vitamins & minerals, helps digestion & improves metabolism, decreasing cholesterol, arthritis & high blood pressure, good for circulation & detoxifying the body, stimulates thinking & slowing ageing process. You want to use unprocessed vinegar with the "mother". Look for it in the health food department at the grocery. A good daily tonic is, one tablespoon of vinegar with one tablespoon of honey mixed in four ounces of water. Can also use on salads and in salad dressings.
Basil - Used to treat stomach cramps, vomiting,
fevers, colds, flu, headaches, whooping cough,
and menstrual pains. Chewing fresh basil is also
used to reduce stomach acid, making it a
valuable part of any treatment for ulcers, and a
valuable addition to any recipe using tomatoes
for those with sensitive stomachs. Externally,
a basil poultice can be used for insect bites, to
draw out the poisons. It has been used in other
countries to eliminate worms from the intestines, and the oil from basil leaves is applied directly to the skin to treat acne. Steep one teaspoon in a cup of boiling water to make tea. Strain off the leaves.
Black Walnut - The liquid extract from the bark is used to treat dysentery, funguses, ringworm and other skin diseases. The nut is used to promote strength and weight gain. The ground hull of the nut is used to treat skin diseases, herpes, head and body lice, and internal parasites. Walnut leaf tea or compresses are used topically to treat eczema, hives, and boils.
Diluted walnut oil is used to treat dandruff. A strong decoction of walnut leaves, painted around doorways and woodwork, will repel ants. To make a decoction simmer leaves in a pot of water until there is only half of the water left.
Catnip - Is tea effective alone or in herbal remedies for colds, flu, fevers, upset stomach, and insomnia. Particularly good for children with upset stomachs in a very mild infusion. Steep one teaspoon in a cup of boiling water to make tea. Strain off the leaves.
Cayenne - Also called capsicum, is very effective added to wheat germ or olive oil, for all sorts of arthritis and muscle aches. Remember to wash your hand after applying to skin. Internally it benefits the heart and circulation. It is also used to normalize blood pressure. It will stop bleeding both externally and internally. Sprinkle a small amount into socks or shoes to warm the feet during the winter months. Keep both capsules and extracts on hand, you will use it allot. A great treatment for the common cold is to take 2-4 capsules and a hot shower. Then go to bed and keep warm. This will speed up the nasal drainage and help you get over the cold faster.
Chamomile - Use the tea for nerves and
menstrual cramps. The tea is also useful for
babies and small children with colds, diaper
rash, teething pain, colic, and stomach troubles.
Also used to calm the body for inducing sleep
in insomniac conditions. It is also a good wash
for sore eyes and open sores. May prevent
stomach ulcers.
Clove - A drop of clove oil will stop a toothache when it is applied directly to the cavity. It is very warm and stimulating to the system, and is very useful with people who have cold extremities. Cloves will promote sweating with fevers, colds, and flu. Cloves are also safe and effective for relieving vomiting during pregnancy.
Comfrey - Great for healing injuries to all parts of the body. A poultice of comfrey heals wounds, burns, sores, and bruises. It is a powerful remedy for healing broken bones and sprains. Soak the injury by placing diaper soaked in the decoction to the area. A poultice would also work well too. To counter the effects of osteoporosis take daily soaks in comfrey. Make a large tea bag by placing a hand full of the leaves in a washcloth and securing it with a rubber band, then let it soak in your bath water. It's like making a giant cup of tea. You can use this method to help heal broken bones too. For burns mix equal parts of wheat germ oil, & honey, then add enough comfrey powder to thicken it to paste like consistency. For 2nd and 3rd degree burns place on burn and change the bandage twice a day, adding more of the comfrey paste without washing the skin until burn is healed. (Place on bandage not the skin.) You do not want to wash off the new skin. It will look pretty bad but the skin will grow back from under the burn, and the dead skin is protecting it.
Note - Dr. Christopher's BF&C massage oil is high in comfrey and good to keep on hand. I have seen it heal bad sprains in as few as three days. BF&C is also good for improving the look of aging or scared skin. Large amounts or dosages of comfrey can cause liver damage, but there are no problems with using it externally. Used internally, it is best and safest to use a tea, rather than capsules.
Dandelion - Eaten in salads or made into tea, benefits all functions of the liver. It clears obstructions (such as stones) and detoxifies poisons that gather in the liver, spleen, and gall bladder. It will also promote healthy circulation. The juice from a broken leaf stem can be applied to warts and pimples, allowed to dry; used for 3 days or so it will dry up the warts. It is also used to treat premenstrual syndrome, as it is a diuretic. It is a rich source of potassium, and contains more vitamin A than carrots.
Echinacea - It is said that the Native Americans used Echinacea
for more medicinal purposes than any other plant. It can be used
for inflammation of the throat, gums and mouth, to treat a sore
throat, colds and coughs, for colic, abdominal complaints and
the list goes on. It is also used to boost the immune system.
Echinacea products in today's market include; tablets, capsules,
tinctures, extracts, dried herb.
Eucalyptus - The oil is a powerful antiseptic, clean-crushed leaves can be used on minor cuts & burns to prevent infections. The oil breathed in will help clear the sinuses, as will the steam from boiling the leaves. When mixed with water or vegetable oils, it makes a good insect repellant. A small drop on the tongue eases nausea.
Fennel - Helps to take away the appetite. It is often used as a sedative for small children. Can be used in a tea to help with colic. It improves digestion, and is very helpful with coughs. It is also used for cancer patients after radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Enriches and increases the flow of milk for lactating women.
Garlic - A powerful natural antibiotic. Good for internal and external uses. It can stimulate cell growth and activity. It can reduces blood pressure in hypertensive conditions. A main advantage to using garlic for its antibiotic properties is that it does not destroy the body's natural flora. It is excellent for use in all colds, flues and internal infections of
the body. The juice can be applied to bandages
for minor scrapes and cuts to prevent infection.
When ingesting the raw cloves, a sprig of parsley
chewed immediately after will freshen the breath.
Ginger - Known as a weapon against nausea. It
is also an excellent herb to use for strengthening
and healing the respiratory system, as well as for fighting off colds and flu. It removes congestion, soothes sore throats, and relieves nausea, headaches and body aches. Combined with other herbs, it enhances their effectiveness. It is also very effective in combating motion sickness. Recommended during pregnancy for treating morning sickness and digestive problems, as well as safe to use during pregnancy for colds and sore throats. Ginger tea has been used to start labor in women who are over due. It doesn't always work.
Jasmine - In the orient this tea is drunk for its calming affect, especially after dinner, as well as for its aphrodisiacal qualities. Jasmine oil used in massage is soothing to the skin, and reported to be an aphrodisiac. It is used in aromatherapy to treat depression and nerve conditions, and as a massage oil for menstrual cramps.
Lemon Balm - Used to treat children with fever, flu, and colds. In adults, it treats colds, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia, and nervous stomachs. It can also been used as a mild form of Valium. The crushed leaves are applied to wounds and insect bites to aid in healing. The essential oil, also known as Melissa, is used in aromatherapy to ease depression.
Licorice - The root is a great source of the female hormone estrogen. It is most used for calming coughs and chest ailments. It is an important herb to use when recovering from an illness, as it supplies needed energy to the system. Can also be used as a remedy for stomach and heart problems, indigestion, and most respiratory ailments. It may also help to normalize and regulate hormone production. Should not be used by pregnant women as it can sometimes lead to high blood pressure with prolonged use.
Mint - Acts as a sedative on the stomach and strengthens the bowels. Great for tummy aches from flue or over eating. Valuable herb for stopping vomiting during pregnancy. It is gentle enough to use for colic in babies, while aiding in curing colds, flu, and gas. Used with bitter herbs to improve their taste.
Mullein - Terrific narcotic herb that is not addictive or poisonous. It is used as a painkiller and to bring on sleep. Mullein & Lobelia oils added to warm olive oil will help heal and relieve earaches. Also good for relieving chest congestion.
Raspberry - Red Raspberry is one of the most proven female
herbs. It strengthens the uterine wall during pregnancy, reduces
the pain of childbirth, and helps to reduce false labor pains. After
childbirth it is used to decrease uterine swelling and cut down
on post-partum bleeding. It is used to ease menstrual cramps
and to regulate the flow during menstruation. It is also good for
vomiting in small children, and dysentery and diarrhea in infants.
Rose - The hips are very nourishing to the skin, as well as
containing vitamin C. It is used as a blood purifier, and for treatment of infections, colds, and flues. Rose hip tea is very nice.
St. John’s Wort - Is commonly used to ease depression, headaches, hysteria, neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause. Can also be useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, and for dirty, septic wounds. It is useful in swellings, abscesses, and bad insect stings. Do not go into the sun if using this herb, as it causes blistering sunburns, especially in fair-skinned people.
Tea Tree Oil - Wonder oil for skin. It improves healing and stimulates rejuvenation of the skin to treat a variety of skin problems. The oil also contains properties that fight bacterial and fungal infections. Its antiseptic properties are ideal for healing acne, eczema, cold sores and rashes. Tea Tree Oil kills germs making it especially useful for wounds, cuts, scratches, insect bites, boils and athlete's foot. Tea Tree Oil may also be diluted to treat many other ailments. If gargled, it soothes and treats sore throat, canker sores and laryngitis. Other uses include fighting yeast infections, treating asthma and relieving sinus headaches. Tea Tree Oil is a must for your medicine cabinet!
Uva Ursi - Strengthens and tones the urinary tract. It is especially useful for kidney infections, bladder infections, and inflammatory disease of the urinary tract. It is used as a diabetes remedy for excessive sugar in the blood. It is used for postpartum women to return the womb to its natural size, as well as to prevent infection of the womb after childbirth. Pregnant women should not use it.
Valerian - A relaxer, and is very effective for insomnia. It is often used as a tranquilizer, but it leaves no sluggish effects on the user. It is used for nervous tension, pain relieving, strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure, menstrual cramps, and for muscle spasms. It should not be taken over a long period of time, as it can cause mental depression in some people after long-term steady use. It is not habit forming.
Willow - The bark works like aspirin. In fact, aspirin was derived from willow bark. It is also used to cleanse and heal eyes that are infected or inflamed. It is safe to use, and is mild on the stomach and leaves no after-effects.
HERBS FOR TINCTURE
When using herbs to help maintain the health of your family you won't need to have a large number of herbs on hand for general use. Some of the most commonly used herbs are listed here as a basic starting point. These herbs are mild in action and non-toxic. Add less commonly used herbal tinctures to your medicine chest when you know they will be useful to you.
Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) - Burdock aids liver function, purifies blood, and is antiseptic. It is effective in treating systemic skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, acne and dandruff. Burdock is also useful for arthritic conditions, rheumatism, and many types of infections. It is the primary ingredient in ESSIAC TEA, a Native American cancer formula. Burdock root is commonly eaten as food among the Chinese. The boiled roots, called gobo, have a mild flavor similar to potatoes. Dosage for tincture is 1/2 teaspoon 3-4 times a day.
Dong Quai Root (Angelica sinensis) - Dong quai is a tonic herb rich in minerals and iron and is an excellent remedy for many gynecological problems. Many women have found dong quai to be useful in treating P.M.S. and symptoms of menopause. Dong quai is a uterine tonic and hormonal regulator. It is a specific for menstrual cramps, irregularity, dysmenorrhea, and delayed or absent menstrual cycles.
Dong quai can stimulate bleeding and is not recommended for use during the menstrual cycle or during pregnancy. Dong Quai also acts as a blood purifier and antispasmodic, useful for treating heart palpitations, insomnia and cramps. Dosage of dong quai tincture is 1/4 teaspoon twice a day.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) - Dandelion root
stimulates and aids the liver in the elimination of
toxins from the blood. Use dandelion for liver
disorders, and gall bladder problem. The liver is
responsible for so many functions important to
good health, such as filtering the blood of toxins,
regulating and normalizing hormone production,
and metabolism of fats, cholesterol and enzymes.
Dandelions action upon the liver makes it useful for treating a large number of ailments. Dandelion is useful for P.M.S., menopause, hypoglycemia, recent onset diabetes, high blood pressure and digestive disturbances. You can use dandelion root on a regular basis for cleansing and toning the liver. Dandelion leaf is one of our best diuretic herbs because it contains large amounts of potassium which is lost when the kidneys are stimulated by diuretics. Use for treating water retention due to heart problems or P.M.S. Dandelion leaves are also a wonderful spring green. They can be eaten freshly steamed or marinated. Dandelion greens are very rich in vitamin A, potassium and minerals. Dosage for dandelion tincture is 1/2 teaspoon 3-4 times per day for the root or leaf. There is no known toxicity so you can eat as much as you like of the greens.
Echinacea - (Echinacea purpurea or E. angustifolia) This herb is the most widely consumed herb in the world today. It is used internally to activate the immune system when fighting colds and flu, or almost any type of infection. You can use echinacea tincture whenever you feel your body is fighting an ailment. In Germany, studies have shown that echinacea has also been found to be useful for some arthritic diseases, certain cancers as well as many viral and bacterial infections. The root is the most powerful part of the plant. Two species, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia, are commonly used. Both species are powerful, but it is best to choose E. purpurea because it is the most abundant species. E. angustifolia is becoming rare in the wild. Many people cultivate echinacea in their gardens, commonly known as Purple Coneflower. To avoid further depletion of wild echinacea plants, try to buy only cultivated plants or grow your own. Dosage for echinacea tincture is 1/2 teaspoon every 2 hours for acute conditions and 3 times per day for chronic conditions.
Hawthorne (Crataegus oxyacantha) - Hawthorne berries are a circulatory system tonic useful for treating both high and low blood pressure, palpitations and arteriosclerosis. Hawthorne is also effective in relieving insomnia. For a synergistic cardiac tonic blend combines equal parts of hawthorne berries and motherwort herb. Motherwort has properties similar to hawthorne. Dosage for hawthorne tincture is 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon 3 times per day.
Nettles (Urtica urens) - Nettles are rich in minerals,
vitamins, and chlorophyll. The new shoots are eaten
lightly steamed in the spring. They contain the indole
histamine which makes them useful for allergies and
asthma. Nettles are a tonic and general detoxifying
remedy for the whole body, primarily for the lungs,
stomach and urinary systems. Use nettles for
allergies, asthma, eczema, urinary complaints and
arthritic and rheumatic problems. Nettle root is used for benign prostate enlargement. Nettles offer the most benefit if they are tinctured using the fresh herb. With careful attention and a firm grasp you can pick nettles without getting stung, or wear long sleeves and gloves. Nettles lose their sting when they are dried. Dosage of nettle tincture is 10 - 30 drops 3 times per day.
Usnea (Usnea barbata) - Usnea is an herbal antibiotic useful for treating respiratory infections, colds & flu, urinary tract infections, bacterial infections and fungal infections. Usnea inhibits the growth of staphylococcus, streptococcus and pneumonococcus. At the onset of an illness I use a combination of echinacea and usnea. I have had great results using this herb and would not be without it. The active ingredient in usnea does not dissolve well in water so the tinctured form is more effective than tea. Dosage for usnea tincture is 1/2 teaspoon 3 - 4 times per day.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) - Valerian is sedative and antispasmodic useful for insomnia, nervousness, pains and the symptoms of stress. It has a strong odor and taste that is disagreeable to many but its effectiveness makes it a worthwhile herb to have in your medicine chest. Tincture valerian alone or combine with skullcap, hops, and passion flower for a synergistic combination. You can grow valerian in your garden for your own supply of fresh root. The odor of the fresh root is not as disagreeable as the dried root. Dosage for valerian tincture is 10 drops to 1 teaspoon three times a day, or as needed.
