Remember
that herbs and roots are also medication but in its natural state.
Before taking any you should seek that advice of your MD. They can have
adverse effects with other medications.
~ Alfalfa ~
Rx:leaves (not sprouts) in infusions, tablets and
capsules.Alfalfa leaves have wonderful healing powers that can prevent
heart disease, lower cholesterol and help prevent strokes. Warnings:Alfalfa
seeds should never be ingested as they contain high levels of amino
acid canavanine. Some chemicals in alfalfa can also destroy red blood
cells and people with anemia should use caution when ingesting it.
~ Allspice ~
Rx: cooking, oil for toothache, infusion for digestive
aid Allspice is used as a digestive aid, anesthetic, and pain reliever
and has been used to treat flatulence and diabetes. Warnings:Allspice
oil should never be swallowed as it can cause nausea, vomiting,and
even convulsions. The oil can also be irritating when applied externally
to people with sensitive skin or those with eczema.
~ Aloe ~
Rx: cut mature (lower) leaves for burns, scalds, sunburns,
or cosmetic benefits Aloe is one of the most widely used herbs for
burns, scalds, scrapes, sunburn, and an incredible infection fighter.
It can also be used to smooth and beautify skin. Warnings: Aloe latex
is a very powerful laxative and may cause severe cramps and diarrhea.
It should never be ingested by pregnant women as it may cause miscarriage.
~ Anise ~
Rx: infusion of seeds, tinctures,It has been used as
a cough remedy, digestive aid, and contains chemicals similar to
estrogen, which may help with menopausal discomforts, and has been
known to treat some cases of prostate cancer. Warnings:If your doctor
has advised you not to use birth control pills then you should seek
the advise of a physician before using this herb because it contains
estrogen.
~ Balm,Lemon ~
Rx: leaves in bath, compress for wounds, infusion, tincture.You
can use it to treat wounds, herpes, viral infections, and has been
used as a digestive aid, and a tranquilizer. It can also be used to
treat menstrual cramps or to promote menstruation.Warnings: Anyone
with a thyroid condition should avoid using this herb because it contains
a thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyrotropin.
~ Basil ~
Rx: tincture or infusion for acne and general infection
fighting.It as been used to treat intestinal parasites, acne, and
stimulates the immune system. Warnings:Tests have shown that basil
may contain a chemical that has caused liver tumors in mice, although
the cancer risks remain unclear and not even the most conservative herb
critics advise caution when using it.
~ Bay Leaf ~
Rx: fresh leaves for wounds, infusion, tincture
Bay is not only used as a bug repellent, but has been known to soothe
sore joints,treat infections, and when added to a bath may help with
relaxation. Warnings:External uses of bay should be avoided if you have
sensitive skin as it may cause a rash.
~ Caraway ~
Rx: seeds in food, oil, infusion of seeds, tincture
Two chemicals in caraway seeds have been known to soothe the digestive
tract and to help expel gas. It may also be used for relief of menstrual
cramps due to the fact that caraway might relax the uterus. Warnings:None
~ Catnip ~
Rx: infusion of flowers and leaves (for you not your
cat!) When used in teas, it is considered a cold and cough remedy
because it relieves chest congestion and loosens phlegm. Catnip has
long been used as a sedative,tranquilizer, digestive aid, menstruation
promoter, and treatment for menstrual cramps,flatulence, and infant
colic. Warnings:Some people may experience upset stomach but Catnip
is considered nontoxic.
~ Chamomile ~
Rx: infusion or tincture of flowers, herbal bath.
This herb is a highly used cure-all, and every household should seriously
consider having it around. It has been used externally to treat
wounds and inflammations, and internally for indigestion and ulcers.
Chamomile is also used to relieve menstrual cramps, arthritis, and
is an effective sedative. Warnings: People who have previously suffered
anaphylactic reactions from ragweed should think twice about using
this herb as well as its close relative yarrow. Large amounts have caused
some nausea and vomiting.
~ Chickory ~
Rx: excellent salad addition, infusion, tincture
It is also known as endive, or chickory.Chicory is most commonly
used to reduce the bitter taste of caffeine in coffee. It aids in cleansing
the urinary tract, digestion, a mild laxative and is also taken for
rheumatic conditions and gout. Warnings:None
~ Cinnamon ~
Rx: infusion of powdered herb, sprinkle cuts or
scrapes for treatment.Cinnamon is used for infection prevention,
pain relief, a digestive aid, and may help calm the uterus. Warnings:
Do not ingest cinnamon oil!!! It can cause nausea, vomiting, and possible
kidney damage. When put on the skin, the oil may cause redness and burning.
~ Clove ~
Rx: oil for toothache, infusion.It has been used for
toothaches, oral hygiene, a digestive aid, and an infection fighter.
It is also used to treat hernia, ringworm, and athlete's foot. Warnings:
Children under the age of 2 should never be given clove for medicinal
purposes.The oil may cause stomach upset when swallowed, and used
externally may cause rash.
~ Coriander ~
Rx: infusion of seeds, sprinkle on cuts and scrapes
Used for indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea, and externally for
muscles and joint pains. Warnings: If Coriander causes minor discomforts,
such as stomach upsets or diarrhea, use less or stop using it.
~ Cranberry ~
Rx: Juice, juice, juice! Used for urinary tract
infections (UTI), incontinence, high Vitamin C content Warnings: None
~ Dandelion ~
Rx: #1 recommended salad addition, leaf infusion,
root decoction, tincture, add to bath for prevention of yeast infection.Used
for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Weight Loss, High Blood Pressure,Congestive
Heart Failure, Cancer Prevention, Yeast Infection, Digestive Aid
Eat fresh leaves in a salad (they are quite tasty). Chinese doctors
have prescribed Dandelion for thousands of years to treat colds, bronchitis,
pneumonia, ulcers,hepatitis, obesity, dental problems, itching and
internal injuries. Quite simply a 'super' herb. Warnings: May cause skin
rash in sensitive cases.If Dandelion causes stomach upset or diarrhea,
use less or stop using it.
~ Dill ~
Rx: chew seed for fresh breath, infusion or tincture,
add to bath to for prevention of urinary tract infections In addition
to its preservative action, Dill is an infection fighter and soothing
digestive aid. Used for stomach problems, flatulence, urinary tract
infection Warnings: May cause skin rash in sensitive individuals.
~ Echinacea ~
Rx: tincture or decoction of the ROOTS The best kept
secret of the west. This is our A#1 recommended herb due to its high
immune system boost. Echinacea kills a wide variety of disease causing
viruses and bacteria, it fights infection and strengthens tissues.
It may prevent infection by seriously boosting ones immune system.
It is known to help the body in fighting off colds and flu. It is a
treatment for yeast infections and actually can reduce the future onset
of. It helps preserve white blood cells, is a confirmed wound healer
as it prevents germs from penetrating tissues, and may have anti-arthritic
properties. It is simply the most productive herb off all time. Warnings:
often causes one's tongue to tingle, this is not harmful.
~ Eucalyptus ~
Rx: boil leaves as an inhalant, oil on cuts and
scrapes infusion from leaves NOT OIL, add leaves to bath Eucalyptol
is the chemical that gives Eucalyptus its healing properties. It loosens
phlegm, kills influenza, and may help bacterial bronchitis. An effective
treatment for minor cuts and scrapes and it even repels cockroaches!
Warnings: Do NOT ingest Eucalyptus oil, it is highly poisonous. Fatalities
have been reported from ingestion of as little as a teaspoon. KEEP AWAY
FROM CHILDREN!
~ Fennel ~
Rx: chew seeds for a digestive aid, infusion, tincture
Fennel relaxes the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract and
also helps expel gas. Used in Germany for infant colic. Traditionally
used to stimulate the uterus into menstruation. This herb may also
help fight prostate cancer. Warnings: Since Fennel has a mild estrogenic
effect, do not use if you are currently taking birth control pills,
have a history of abnormal blood clotting, or estrogen dependent breast
tumors. Do NOT ingest Fennel Oil, seeds are fine but the oil may cause
nausea, vomiting, and possibly seizures.
~ Feverfew ~
Rx: chew leaves for migraine control,premade pills and
tablets also work well for headaches, infusion, tincture Got a headache,
maybe a chronic migraine? Feverfew may well be your answer.Seventy
percent of patients in scientific studies show a significant improvement
in their migraine headaches even when standard medical treatment showed
no results. Also traditionally used for gynecological purposes. This
herb may reduce high blood pressure, and is a great digestive aid after
meals. Warnings: May cause sores inside the mouth, do not take if
you have a clotting disorder.Remember that Feverfew does not CURE migraines,
it suppresses them.
~ Garlic ~
Rx:use cloves in cooking, crush and encapsulate
or use premade tablets, infusion,tincture Garlic is the worlds second
oldest medicine, and is the traditional 'WONDER DRUG'.Many people
don't realize that onion has almost as much medicinal value as garlic
does. Battle wounds in WWI were treated with garlic juice.Recommended
for colds, coughs, flu, fever, bronchitis, ringworm, intestinal worms,
elevated cholesterol,and general internal organ problems. No standard
medication can match Garlic on the cardiovascular scale.Garlic DEFINITELY
reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduces internal clots which
can lead to heart attacks and stroke.Garlic reduces blood sugar and therefore
helps diabetes sufferers.It may help eliminate lead and heavy metals in
the bloodstream, has helped leprosy patients, fights cancer, helps AIDS
patients...nuff sed, USE IT! Warnings: Allergy sufferers may develop a
rash from touching or eating the herb.If this is the case, discontinue.If
you have a clotting disorder, consult a physician before using Garlic.
~ Ginger ~
Rx: cooking, capsules for motion sickness; tea, infusion,
or ginger-ale for digestive aid.This herb helps with motion and morning
sickness. It is a very good digestive aid,may ease menstrual cramps,
helps arthritis, is traditionally used in the orient for colds and
flu, and is excellent for reducing cholesterol, lowering blood pressure,
and preventing internal blood clots (a.k.a heart attacks) Warnings: large
doses MIGHT cause a miscarriage although there are no scientific reports
backing this up.
~ Ginkgo Biloba ~
Rx:leaves brewed as tea, infusion.The Earth's oldest
tree, it's a given that this herb helps the elderly the most. Ginkgo
increases blood flow to the brain which can prevent strokes and
heart attacks, improve memory, help impotence and chronic dizziness.It
is also known to help with macular degeneration (blindness),circulation,
asthma, tinnitus, and deafness.A fine example of the need to preserve
the Earth's natural resources. Warnings:
Do not use if you have a clotting disorder, do not take
in very large amounts as diarrhea, vomiting, and irritability can
occur.
~ Ginseng ~
Rx:It is very important to use mature roots(over
6 years old). Use root powder teas, capsules or tablets.You can
also make a decoction from dried pulverized root.This herb helps the
bodies resistance, boosts the immune system, lowers cholesterol, lowers
blood sugars, reduces heart attacks, protects the liver, helps the
appetite, and helps cancer patients with radiation therapy.Warnings:
Rare cases of insomnia, allergy symptoms, breast soreness. Do not
use if you have high blood pressure, fever, asthma, emphysema, or cardiac
arrhythmia.
~ Horehound ~
Rx:flowers and leaves in infusion or tincture for cough
remedy. A popular herbal cough remedy and expectorant for almost
2,000 years,Horehound is good for minor respiratory problems, coughs,
colds, and bronchitis Warnings: those with heart disease should not
use this herb.
~ Hyssop ~
Rx:flowers and leaves as a compress for cold sores
and genital herpes,infusion,tincture.Hyssop inhibits the growth
of herpes simplex virus.Scientists agree it is a 'reasonably effective'
treatment for cough and irritation of colds and flu. Warnings: DO
NOT USE IF PREGNANT..... PERIOD!Again always positively identify the
herbs you use.
~ Kelp ~
A natural source of iodine, now known as a radiation
protector, protection from heavy metals, reducer of heart disease,
and an infection fighter. Rx: take tablets (herb is unpleasant),
infusion Warnings: None
~ Lavender ~
Rx: flowers in bath, general aromatherapy The all time
fragrant herb, Lavender make a great bath addition. The Greeks and
Romans bathed in lavender scented water and it was from the Latin
word, lavo (to wash) that the herb took its name. While not technically
a medicinal herb, the calming properties of its aroma are well founded.
Warnings: None
~ Marijuana ~
The much debated and scolded Cannabis, Marijuana
has shown positive effects on cancer, AIDS, and glaucoma. So effective
on AIDS patients from its ability to increase a person's appetite
as well as releiving nausea allowing a patient to regain weight. Marijuana
reportedly helps glaucoma patients by reducing occular pressure which
can cause damage to the eye. It is the most effective treatment for chronic
nausea. It is not physically addictive. Rx: smoked (dried), added to salads(fresh)
Warnings: coughing, asthma, upper respiratory problems, difficulty with
short term memory loss, racing heart, agitation, confusion, paranoia, possible
psychological dependence
~ Marjoram ~
Rx: sprinkle dried powdered herb on cold sores
or genital herpes, infusion or tincture for its stomach soothing
potential. An excellent digestive aid and herpes fighter, this one
of the most confused herbs on the planet. The Oregano on your spice
rack might be Marjoram! All Marjoram species are called Oregano but
only a few of the fifty are ever called Marjoram. Warnings: None
~ Mint ~
Rx: Peppermint oil for wounds, burns etc., infusion
of any dried mint for decongestant, tincture. The after dinner mint
soothes the stomach. Peppermint produces Menthol. Menthol is a key
anesthetic (e.g. Ben-Gay), the vapors are an incredible decongestant (e.g.
Vick's VapoRub), is germicidal, and helps morning sickness a great deal.
Those wishing to alleviate morning sickness should use only dilute tea
concentrations for reasons shown below. Peppermint is a hybrid of
Spearmint and is the more potent due to the high menthol factor. Spearmint
contains Carvone in comparison to Menthol. While not nearly as effective,
Spearmint is much safer. Warnings: on rare occasions the fragrance of
mint oil has caused gagging in children. Pure Menthol, ingested, is POISONOUS.
A teaspoon can be FATAL. DO NOT ingest Peppermint oil or Menthol.
~ Mistletoe ~
Rx: leaves in DILUTED infusion, tincture for high
blood pressure Mistletoe, the kissing plant, has the ability to slow
the pulse, lower blood pressure and stimulate gastrointestinal and uterine
contractions. Warnings: should be administered only by a qualified herbal/medicinal
doctor. TWO BERRIES CAN KILL A CHILD. Keep away from children. This
herb is highly toxic. Pregnant women should not use it. This herb is
known (unfortunately) for its abortion inducing properties. The dose
needed to induce abortion is enough to kill you.
~ Myrrh ~
Rx: steep powdered herb for mouthwash, infusion, tincture.
Myrrh makes an excellent mouthwash, toothpaste, and fights bacteria
Warnings:large amounts may have violent laxative action
~ Nettle ~
Rx: process plant matter in juicer, infusion, tincture
An effective cure for gout, Nettle is also good for the symptoms
of hay fever, scurvy, PMS, and helps heart patients. Warnings: When
I was a child, I must have fallen into Nettle a hundred times. USE
THICK GLOVES. If you doubt the cruelty of natures own protections just
touch one of these plants. Large doses of Nettle tea may cause stomach
irritation.
~ St. John's Wart ~
Rx: combats stress, minor depression, and alcohol
cravings. It is an antispasmodic,anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant,
astringant, expectorant, nervine, vulnerary, it treats bedwetting,
and insomnia. It has been found to inhibit the growth of HIV and AIDS
in animals. The oil extract of St.John's Wort can be used for intestinal
and stomach problems. Drink the tea if you would like help with anemia,
headaches, jaundice, feminine difficulties and pains, and chest congestion.
Use an oil made of it externally on burns, wounds, sores, bruises, and
skin problems. Taken internally, St. John's wort has a sedative and pain
reducing effect. As a lotion it will speed the healing of many skin problems,
especially sunburns. Because of it's antibiotic properties, it has been
and is being tested for it's food preservation abilities.
~ Ephedra, Chinese: Ma Huang ~
Rx:Ephedra has been used extensively for the treatment
of asthma, and also as a natural decongestant and antihistamine.
It has become a very popular ingredient in herbal combinations for allergies
and hay fever. Since it is a stimulant which increases the metabolism
and increases body temperature, it has been used to control weight and
to help prevent sleep. One of the side-effects of increased metabolism
is an increased pulse rate and a slight elevation in blood pressure.Ephedra
is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, heart problems
or thyroid problems. Even though producers of the product have put the
warings on the labels, there have been a few unfortunate cases where an
overdose has occured due to disreagard of the dosage recomendations. A total
of eight accidents have resulted in death. Despite these events, Ephedra
has an excellent safety record considering the large number of people who
have used the herb.Especicaly when compared to Aspirin, because 20,000
Americans die each year from taking aspirin, and aspirin substitutes.)
When used properly the herb is as safe or safer than most over-the-counter
medications. Just to make a point about how stimulating this herb can
be,Epinephrine (pronounced eh-pin-ef-rin) (a word rooted from Ephedra)is
another name for adrenaline. Ephedrine is a powerful stimulant. In fact,
it's molecular structure is close to methamphetamine(speed). Ephedra can
produce a positive urine test for amphetamines (speed). Some other medicinal
uses of Ephedra include the decreasion of cigarette cravings, promotion
of mensturation, and promotion of uterine contractions
Antibiotics Inhibit the growth of an destroys
viruses and bacteria.
The herbs not only destroy germs, but help promote the body's
own immunity.
~
Chaparral ~
A bitter herb that acts as a free radical scavenger.
Protects against harmful effects of radiation and sun exposure.
Good for skin disorders. Protects against the formation of tumors
and cancer cells and relieves pain. Recommended for external use only.
Taking it internally, especially in large doses and/or for prolonged
periods, can cause liver damage. Do not take if you already have any
kind of liver condition
~ Echinacea ~
Stimulates certain white blood cells and has anti-inflammatory
and anti-viral properties. Good for the immune system and the lymphatic
system. Useful for colic, colds, flu, and other infectious illnesses.
A valuable alternative to all antibiotics. Do not use if allergic to
plants in the sunflower family.
~ Garlic ~
Works against bacteria, fungal infections, inflammation,
blood clots, and lipids Used for lowering cholesterol and blood
pressure May increase effect of regular high blood pressure and anticoagulant
(anti-clotting) drugs like aspirin or warfarin, affect glucose control
in diabetic patients, and cause stomach upset.
~ Goldenseal ~
One of the oldest recorded remedies, that is still extremely
popular. Used to treat symptoms of colds and flu, as well as congestion
due to inflammation of the mucous membranes, as well as other numerous
conditions. Do not use if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure.
Avoid excessive or long term use. Good to use one week on and one
week off.
~ Hops ~
Three cups of the infusion
daily will tone up the liver and digestive tract. Increases the
flow of both the bile and urine. Good to use for reduction of excessive
sexual desires. The tea is good for nervous stomach, poor appetite,
gas and intestinal cramps. The cold tea taken before meals will increase
digestion. As a poultice or fomentation is effective for boils, tumors,
painful swellings and skin inflammations. Hops placed in a pillow will
aid sleep.
~ Myrrh ~
The tincture added to water is an excellent mouth
wash for spongy gums, pyorrhea and all throat diseases. Destroys putrification
in the intestines and prevents blood absorption of toxins. It has
been successful in treating chronic diarrhea, lung diseases and general
body weaknesses. Has been used as a substitute for goldenseal. Do not
take in large amounts or over a long period of time as it can be toxic.
Do not take while pregnant. The resin is also used as an incense for purification
purposes.
~ Thyme ~
Thyme tea will arrest gastric fermentation. It
is useful in cases of wind spasms and colic, and will assist in promoting
perspiration at the commencement of a cold, and in fever and febrile
complaints generally. Antipyretics Cooling to the system and are used
to reduce fevers; also called "refrigerants."
~ Alfalfa ~
Alkalizes and detoxifies the body. Acts as a diuretic,
eases inflammation, lowers cholesterol, balance hormones, and promotes
pituitary gland function. Known as the “father of all foods”. Has
been known to aggravate lupus and other auto-immune disorders. If
you have an auto-immune problem avoid using.
~ Boneset ~
It is regarded as a mild tonic in moderate doses,
and is also diaphoretic, more especially when taken as a warm infusion,
in which form it is used in attacks of muscular rheumatism and general
cold. In large doses it is emetic and purgative.
~ Camphor ~
Camphor has a strong, penetrating, fragrant odour,
a bitter, pungent taste, and is slightly cold to the touch like
menthol leaves; locally it is an irritant, numbs the peripheral sensory
nerves, and is slightly antiseptic; it is not readily absorbed by the
mucous membrane, but is easily absorbed by the subcutaneous tissue-
it combines in the body with glucuronic acid, and in this condition is
voided by the urine
~ Chickweed ~
Excellent for all cases of bronchitis, pleurisy, coughs,
colds and hoarseness. Good for all skin diseases applied as a fomentation.
Add the tea to baths to soothe rashes and skin irritations. Drink
the tea to build the blood.
~ Gotu Kola ~
A nerve tonic to promote relaxation and to enhance
memory. Has a positive effect on the circulatory system. Promotes
healing after childbirth.
~ Lemon Balm ~
Use for children and infants when signs of fever,
colds and flu approach. Prepare the tea and sweeten with honey and
give hot to feverish children while they are covered with warm blankets.
Combine with catnip tea for nervous fevers, or hyperactive children with
digestive disturbances. Peppermint and spearmint are other herbs that
combine well with lemon balm to treat fevers.
~ Lemons ~
Locally, it is a good astringent, whether as a
gargle in sore throat, in pruritis of the scrotum, in uterine haemorrhage
after delivery, or as a lotion in sunburn. It is said to be the best
cure for severe, obstinate hiccough, and is helpful in jaundice and
hysterical palpitation of the heart. The decoction has been found to be
a good antiperiodic, useful as a substitute for quinine in malarial conditions,
or for reducing the temperature in typhoid.
~ Licorice ~
It is a popular and well-known remedy for coughs,
consumption and chest complaints generally, notably bronchitis, and
is an ingredient in almost all popular cough medicines on account
of its valuable soothing properties.
~ Limes ~
(see lemons)
~ Oranges ~
The oil is used chiefly as a flavouring agent, but may
be used in the same way as oil of turpentine in chronic bronchitis.
It is non-irritant to the kidneys and pleasant to take.
~ Skullcap ~
Excellent herb for almost any nervous system malfunction,
mild, or chronic, from insomnia to hysteria. Has been used as an
aid in treatment for addictions and alcoholism. Aids sleep, improves
circulation, and strengthens the heart muscle. Good for anxiety, fatigue,
cardiovascular disease, headache, and hyperactivity. Relieves muscle
cramps, pain, spasms, and stress.
~ Valerian ~
Has a long history of medicinal use as a mild sedative,
pain reliever, and antispasmodic as well as in increasing coronary
blood flow. Relaxes muscles. Clinical studies show that it significantly
improved sleep quality for people suffering from mild insomnia while
producing minimal side effects. One of its most appealing aspects as
a sedative is that it does not interact with alcohol and produces no
morning hangover. Like any other substance, it should be used in moderation.
Demulcents Soften and relieve irritation of the mucus membranes.
~ Aloe Vera ~
Aloes is one of the safest and best warm and stimulating
purgatives topersons of sedentary habits and phlegmatic constitutions.
An ordinary small dose takes from 15 to 18 hours to produce an effect.
Its action is exerted mainly on the large intestine, for which reason,
also it is useful as a vermifuge. Its use, however, is said to induce
Piles.
~ Burdock Root ~
One of the best blood purifiers for chronic infection,
arthritis, rheumatism and skin disease. Clears the kidneys of excess
wastes and uric acid by increasing the flow of urine.
~ Chickweed ~
Demulcent, refrigerant. It is held in great repute
amongherbalists, used mostly in the form of an ointment. The fresh
leaves have been employed as a poultice for inflammation and indolent
ulcers with most beneficial results. A poultice of Chickweed enclosed
in muslin is a sure remedy for a carbuncle or an external abscess.
The water in which the Chickweed is boiled should also be used to bathe
the affected part.
~ Coltsfoot ~
Demulcent, expectorant and tonic. One of the most
popular of cough remedies. It is generally given together with other
herbs possessing pectoral qualities, such as Horehound, Marshmallow,
Ground Ivy, etc.
~ Comfrey ~
Will help heal broken bones, sprains, and slow
healing sores. Not for extended use, accumulates in the system. If
used internally, use one week on, one week off. The dried herb is
excellent as a poultice or in a bath.
~ Cornsilk ~
A mild stimulant, diuretic and demulcent, useful
in acute and chronic cystitis and in the bladder irritation of uric
acid and phosphatic gravel; has also been employed in gonorrhoea.
In action like Holy Thistle.
~ Flax Seed ~
Emollient, demulcent, pectoral. The crushed seeds
or linseed meal make a very useful poultice, either alone or with
mustard. In ulceration and superficial or deep-seated inflammation a
linseed poultice allays irritation and pain and promotes suppuration.
The addition of a little lobelia seed makes it of greater value in cases
of boils. It is commonly used for abscesses and other local affections.
Linseed is largely employed as an addition to cough medicines. As a domestic
remedy for colds, coughs and irritation of the urinary organs, linseed
tea is most valuable. A little honey and lemon juice makes it very agreeable
and more efficacious. This demulcent infusion contains a large quantity
of mucilage
~ Kelp ~
Most helpful in the nourishment of the body due
to its ability to stimulate metabolism. Rich in iodine which the thyroid
must have to properly function. Excessive use of kelp can produce
goiter-like symptoms due to high content of iodine.
~ Licorice Root ~ (see above)
~ Lungwort ~ ~ Marshmallow
~ ~ Mullein ~ (see above)
~ Fenugreek ~
Asthma, sinus problems, lowers cholesterol, and lubricates
the intestines. Lowers blood sugar.
~ Horehound
~
A mild stimulant, can help relieve the dragged-out,
sluggish feeling that often accompanies a bad cold. An excellent expectorant
but it promotes sweating, which can help break a fever. Also good
for the digestion.
~ Hyssop ~
Has stimulating, expectorant qualities that make
it excellent when trying to remove congestion from the lungs. This
warm infusion mixed with equal parts of horehound is good for asthma
and heavy mucus conditions. The infusion of hyssop alone is good for
gas and to promote sweating when trying to break fevers.
~ Nettles ~
Tea is good for diarrhea, dysentery, piles, hemorrhoids,
and gravel in the kidneys. The tea will help expel phlegm from the
lungs. Use as a hair rinse will restore natural color. High in iron,
silicon, potassium, and Vitamin K. Excellent for pregnant women as a
tonic. Also increases the richness and amount of breast milk for nursing
mothers.
~ Plantain ~
Soothing to the lungs and urinary tract, has a
healing, antibiotic effect when used topically for sores and wounds.
Applied in a poultice, good for bee stings and any kind of bite. ~
Pleurisy Root ~ As the name suggests, the ideal remedy for pleurisy
and pneumonia. Excellent sweating agent to break up colds, fevers, flu
and all bronchial problems. Also good for indigestion and “gassy” stomach.
Lymphatics
~ Black Walnut ~
Fights against fungal infection. Antiseptic properties
help fight bacterial infection. Helps promote bowel regularity.
Useful against parasitic infections. Not recommended for long term
use.
~ Dandelion ~
One of nature’s best medicines. Main influence is on
the liver and it is an excellent blood purifier for conditions such
as eczema, dropsy and diabetes. Because of its high content of mineral,
it is used to treat anemia. Will increase the flow of urine and is
good in kidney formulas.
~ Oregon Grape Root
~
As a blood purifier, it is highly recommended in all
chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, herpes and acne.
By stimulating the liver and gallbladder, it helps to overcome constipation.
~ Yellow Dock ~
Provides an excellent, fully absorbable, non-constipating
source of iron. Commonly used to replenish hemoglobin after a hemorrhage.
Acts as a blood purifier and cleanser, and tones the entire system.
Improves colon and liver function.
Other good
Herbs
~ Ginkgo biloba ~
Expands blood vessels, inhibits clot formation,
and scavenges free radicals Used for tinnitis (ringing in the ears),
varicose veins, dementia, and dizziness; improves memory May cause
stomach problems, headache, or skin rashes; large doses can cause diarrhea,
restlessness, nausea, and vomiting
~ Ginseng ~
Stimulates the central nervous system; has some effects
of estrogen Used for relieving fatigue and stress, and enhancing endurance
May decrease effect of the diuretic furosemide; estrogenic effects
can lead to vaginal bleeding and breast nodules; not recommended for
pregnant or nursing women and patients with emphysema, fibrocystic
breasts, high blood pressure, or cardiac arrhythmia
~ Kava kava ~
Suppresses anxiety and the central nervous system;
local anesthetic Used for relieving mild anxiety and sleeplessness
Increases effect of alcohol and other substances that depress the
central nervous system; prolonged use leads to flaky, yellowing skin
and impaired vision (stopping use reverses these effects); not recommended
for pregnant or nursing women or patients with biologically caused
depression
~ St. John’s wort ~
Works against depression and anxiety; may have some antiviral
activity Used for mild to moderate depression and anxiety Should not
be taken with regular anti-depressant drugs; may cause sensitivity
to sunlight and stomach/intestinal upset
~ Saw palmetto ~
Inhibits male hormones, has some effects on estrogen;
may be anti-inflammatory Used for relieving urinary problems due to
benign prostate enlargement May reduce serum levels of PSA (prostate-specific
antigen), a marker used for diagnosing prostate cancer; may cause
stomach/intestinal upset or mild headache
~ Olive ~
The leaves are astringent and antiseptic. Internally,
a decoction of 2 handsful boiled in a quart of water until reduced
to half a pint has been used in the Levant in obstinate fevers. Both
leaves and bark have valuable febrifugal qualities. The oil is a nourishing
demulcent and laxative. Externally, it relieves pruritis, the effects of
stings or burns, and is a good vehicle for liniments. With alcohol it
is a good hair-tonic. As a lubricant it is valuable in skin, muscular,
joint, kidney and chest complaints, or abdominal chill, typhoid and scarlet
fevers, plague and dropsies. Delicate babies absorb its nourishing properties
well through the skin. Its value in worms or gallstones is uncertain. Internally,
it is a laxative and disperser of acids, and a mechanical antidote to irritant
poisons. It is often used in enemas. It is the best fat for cooking, and
a valuable article of diet for both sick and healthy of all ages. It can
easily be taken with milk, orange or lemon juice, etc.
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