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An A-Z guide to the most popular, and effective herbal remedies
INTRODUCTION
Herbal medicines have gained enormously in popularity of late.... and small wonder. The herbal remedies, which were so familiar to our great-grandmothers, have never been more appropriate than today, in the 21st century.
Insomnia, depression, stress, eczema, asthma, arthritis, rheumatism, lowered immune system, exhaustion.... sadly almost endemic in todayΒs hectic world. Yet herbal medicines, used for thousands of years, so very often hold the key for curing these modern ailments. Most of the herbal medicines I have featured book are available in capsule, tincture, cream or ointment form from many good pharmacies.
Why not let Nature help you to help yourself?
DEBORAH FOWLER,
CORNWALL
GOLDEN RULES FOR TAKING HERBAL MEDICINES
1. Plants, mainly herbs, are the foundation of all the medicines we take today. They are powerful, and you should never exceed the stated dose. Treat them with respect.
2. Most herbal medicines are suitable for children. For children under 12, half the adult dose is appropriate. However, do be careful not to overdose if the child is very young.
3. If you are pregnant, do not take anything with the exception is of ginger root and raspberry leaf which is a safe remedy for morning sickness. The author admits to be absolutely paranoid about taking any form of medicine while pregnant.
4. Your pets will also benefit from herbal medicines. Dose them by weight, relating their weight to the average adult, i.e. 9 stone (57 kg).
5. Any of the herbs featured can be taken together. Combinations are suggested, or you can devise your own.
AGNUS CASTUS
The most distinctive feature of Agnus Castus is that it has a hormonal effect on the body, significantly increasing the progesterone levels in women. It is best taken early in the morning Β you may need to take it for some time before you feel a significant improvement.
USEFUL FOR
Women suffering from PMS and menopausal symptoms. Agnus Castus relieves many of the distressing symptoms associated with the menopause, but it must be used instead of HRT, not with it.
Easing problems during periods such as breast swelling and tenderness, bloating, irritability and depression.
Promoting regular periods.
Reducing the instance of acne and migraine, which are often linked to the menstrual cycle.
COMBINATIONS
Agnus Castus with Black Cohosh for menopausal and pre-menstrual problems.
Agnus Castus with Black Cohosh and Sage for menopausal problems, particularly where hot flushes are a feature.
Agnus Castus with Feverfew for menstrual migraines.
Agnus Castus with Echinacea Root for acne with a hormonal cause, particularly helpful for teenage girls.
ALOE VERA
Found in many tropical regions, but is native to Africa, Aloe Vera is well known for its soothing and healing effect on the skin.
USEFUL FOR
Burns, wounds and inflammation of the skin Β use he gel or sap from Aloe Vera leaves.
Sunburn.
Reducing scarring.
External use: in the case of acne, varicose veins and ulcers.
Internal use: to eases gastritis, peptic ulcers and the symptoms of irritable bowel.
COMBINATIONS
Aloe Vera with Marigold or Calendula for inflamed skin.
Aloe Vera with Geranium and Peppermint for irritable bowel.
ARNICA
An absolute must for the mothers of sons! It is for bruising and sprains.
USEFUL FOR
Bruises and sprains, It should not be applied to broken skin. Apply externally as a cream or a diluted tincture.
For serious bruising, take homeopathic Arnica internally.
This is very useful in the event of a planned operation if you begin treatment a few days before surgery. But consult your surgeon first.
Following a shock, homeopathic Arnica should be taken every 30 minutes until the patient feels calmer.
COMBINATIONS
Arnica diluted with witch Hazel for broken or lacerated skin.
Arnica with Vitamin B supplement for hair loss.
BLACK COHOSH
This plant originates from North America, where it was known as ΒSquaw RootΒ. This is a very valuable herb, especially for women.
USEFUL FOR
Menstrual cramps and pains, indeed all menstrual problems where oestrogen production is too low.
Hot flushes, debility and general depression during the menopause.
Rheumatic problems and arthritis, both rheumatoid and inflammatory.
Osteoporosis.
Headaches.
Cases of high blood pressure and tinnitus.
COMBINATIONS
Black Cohosh with Gingko leaf for tinnitus.
Black Cohosh with Agnus Castus as a natural alternative to HRT during the menopause.
Black Cohosh with Wild Yam and Devils Claw for rheumatism. and arthritis.
BORAGE
It is now known that Borage stimulates the adrenal glands, which in turn galvanizes the body into action when faced with dangerous or stressful situations.
USEFUL FOR
Stress use Borage leaves in times of general anxiety, depression or grief.
Rheumatoid arthritis Β use Borage seeds.
A cleansing agent for the kidneys, acting as a diuretic.
COMBINATIONS
Borage with Ginger Root for general bowel health.
BUCHU LEAF
A native plant of South Africa, Buchu Leaf is best known as a urinary anti-septic.
USEFUL FOR
Cystitis, thrush and problems of the prostate.
A diuretic, and has a stimulating effect on the kidneys.
Relieving urinary tract diseases.
Reducing catarrhal problems.
Reduces the effects of wind and bloating.
COMBINATIONS
Buchu Leaf with Damiana or Celery Seed for cystitis.
Buchu Leaf with Willow Bark for prostatitis.
CELERY SEED
All parts of the celery plant have been used for medicinal purposes, but it is the seeds which are best known for their properties.
USEFUL FOR
The pain and inflammation of arthritic and rheumatic conditions -Β particularly helpful in ΒhotΒ arthritic conditions, such as osteo-arthritis.
Decreasing symptoms of Gout sufferers.
As a diuretic, and is helpful in bladder and urinary infections, cystitis.
Easing chest problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.
COMBINATIONS
Celery Seed with Hawthorn Berry for asthma and bronchitis.
Celery Seed with Willow Bark and Dandelion Leaf for gout and arthritis.
Celery Seed with Buchu Leaf for cystitis.
CHAMOMILE FLOWERS
This herb has mild sedative effects, which help to make the body receptive, not only to its own benefits, but to those of other herbal medicines.
USEFUL FOR
Insomnia.
Anxiety and stress.
An anti-inflammatory easing gastro-intestinal upsets and ulcers.
Irritable bowel syndrome and colitis.
Digestive cramps, discomfort and acidic indigestion, pre-menstrual tension and period cramps.
External use: Chamomile is a wonderful ointment for the very young, the very old and the very vulnerable, and for fine sensitive skin. A very good natural product for nappy rash and also sore nipples.
COMBINATIONS
Chamomile Flowers with Valerian Root for gastric problems and insomnia.
Chamomile Flowers with Peppermint for dyspepsia.
Chamomile Flowers with Golden Seal for peptic ulcers and gastritis.
CHICKWEED
For thousands of years it has been used as a vegetable, but it is in cream form that Chickweed has come into its own.
USEFUL FOR
Eczema Β particularly for children. It can be used on the most delicate of baby skin. * Drawing splinters, stings and heal minor burns and scalds.
Rheumatism (taken internally in tincture form)
COMBINATIONS
Chickweed cream applied externally and Ginseng taken internally in the treatment of psoriasis, if it is largely stress related.
Chickweed cream applied externally and Echinacea Root taken internally will ease psoriasis if the root cause is a lowered immune system.
CINNAMON
This is essentially a ΒwarmingΒ herb, used to fend off colds and chills.
USEFUL FOR
The common cold (used as a tincture) and is also helpful for chills to the stomach, causing discomfort or diarrhoea.
As an inhalation, Cinnamon essential oil for persistent coughs and general respiratory irritation. (Add 4 drops to a bowl of boiling water.)
COMBINATIONS
Cinnamon with Ginger Root greatly eases stomach upsets.
COMFREY
A 100 years ago, no self-respecting housewife would have been without a pot of Comfrey in her first aid box.
USEFUL FOR
Cuts and bruises, and sprains Β apply immediately after injury.
Fractures Β in cases such as fingers and toes, which are often left to heal themselves.
Acne and boils.
Healing of scars,
Joint pain.
CRAMP BARK
This is the most important herb for muscular spasms, cramp and muscle tension anywhere in the body.
USEFUL FOR
Menstrual and ovarian cramps (period pains). Start taking the herb several days before your period is due.
Aches and pains during the menopause.
The symptoms and pain of cramp throughout the body.
Bedwetting, incontinence and irritable bowel syndrome.
COMBINATIONS
Cramp Bark with Willow Bark for pain.
Cramp Bark with Agnus Castus for menstrual pain.
Cramp Bark with St JohnΒs Wort for backache.
Cramp Bark with Chamomile for irritable bowel syndrome.
DAMIANA
This herb is known primarily known for its aphrodisiac qualities.
USEFUL FOR
Aiding male problems, such as impotence and premature ejaculation.
Restoring and stimulating the female reproductive organs.
Helping mild to moderate depression and nervous exhaustion.
Relieving painful periods and urinary infections.
COMBINATIONS
Damiana with St JohnΒs Wort for depression linked to nervous exhaustion.
Damiana with Korean Ginseng for sexual dysfunction (male or female).
DANDELION LEAF
This grows almost worldwide, and is particularly useful for its high levels of potassium.
USEFUL FOR
Detoxifying Β working on the liver, gallbladder and kidneys.
Warts. Apply the white juice that comes from both the stem and leaf twice a day for a few weeks.
COMBINATIONS
Dandelion Leaf with Celery Seed and Willow Bark for gout and osteo-arthritis.
Dandelion Leaf with Hawthorn Berry and Garlic for high blood pressure.
DEVILS CLAW
This herb has been compared with cortisone in terms of effect. For best results, DevilΒs Claw needs to be taken over a number of weeks.
USEFUL FOR
Easing arthritis and rheumatism, particularly those conditions where pain is the main feature.
Persistent back pain.
Reducing fevers.
Easing digestive problems.
Ulcers and boils (in ointment form).
COMBINATIONS
Devils Claw with Black Cohosh and St JohnΒs Wort for rheumatoid arthritis.
Devils Claw with Willow Bark for osteo-arthritis.
Devils Claw with Angelica to cleanse the digestive system.
ECHINACEA ROOT
This is one of the most important herbs since it boosts the immune system Β in other words, it helps the body to help itself. Taking Echinacea Root in advance of infection, greatly reduces the chance of developing flu, colds and respiratory tract infections.
USEFUL FOR
Combating minor infections, such as coughs and colds, but is also very effective in fighting chronic infections, such as ME.
Throat problems, such as tonsillitis and quinsy.
Skin infections, such as acne or boils.
Tooth abscesses.
COMBINATIONS
Echinacea Root with Garlic for throat and chest infections.
Echinacea Root with Sage and Ginger Root for gastro-enteritis.
Echinacea Root with St JohnΒs Wort or Lemon Balm for viral infections.
Echinacea Root with Chickweed Ointment for psoriasis.
Echinacea Root with Golden Seal for conjunctivitis.
Echinacea Root with Agnus Castus for acne with a hormonal cause.
Echinacea Root with Marigold Ointment for chronic skin conditions.
FENUGREEK
Best known as a tummy herb, helping with most minor problems of the intestines, bowels and stomach.
USEFUL FOR
Irritable bowel syndrome.
Colitis.
Stomach ulcers.
Inflammation.
Diarrhoea and gastro-enteritis.
COMBINATIONS
Fenugreek with Golden Seal for stomach or intestinal trouble.
Echinacea Root with Wild Yam for diverticulitis.
Echinacea Root with Slippery Elm for ulcers.
Echinacea Root with Cranesbill for diarrhoea.
FEVERFEW
This herb is of great use to ordinary headache sufferers, which is why it is often associated with the cure for a hangover!
USEFUL FOR
Migraine sufferers, particularly as a preventative.
Arthritic and rheumatic pain.
COMBINATIONS
Feverfew with Willow Bark for inflammatory joint pain.
Feverfew with Agnus Castus for menstrual migraines.
Feverfew with Damiana for migraine linked to nervous exhaustion.
GARLIC
Before penicillin and anti-biotics, Garlic was one of the first treatments given in the fight against any form of infection.
USEFUL FOR
Reduces blood cholesterol levels and hence reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Chesty conditions and bronchitis,
Circulation and increasing blood thinning, thus helping to protect against strokes.
External use: Garlic cream is anti-fungal and marvelous for athleteΒs foot, rashes and warts.
A natural anti-septic.
COMBINATIONS
Garlic with Hawthorn Berry and Dandelion Leaf for high blood pressure.
Garlic with Ginger Root for digestive infections.
Garlic with Echinacea Root for viral and chronic infections particularly throat and chest.
GINGER ROOT
This works by calming the gastro-intestinal tract and it is also an anti-septic.
USEFUL FOR
Preventing travel sickness (half-doses for children), and for general nausea.
Gut infections due to food poisoning and dysentery.
Morning sickness.
Easing the symptoms of coughs, cold, flu and bronchitis.
Helpful for whooping cough.
Lowering the body temperature if you have a fever.
External use: for chilblains and aching muscles.
COMBINATIONS
Ginger Root with Chamomile Flowers for nausea, vomiting and dyspepsia.
Ginger Root with Garlic and/or Cinnamon for digestive infections.
Ginger Root with Echinacea Root for respiratory infection.
Ginger Root with Capsicum for chilblains.
Ginger Root with Gingko Leaf to aid stroke prevention.
Ginger Root with Borage for general bowel health.
GINGKO LEAF
Believed to be the oldest tree on the planet, it is much prized today for improving cerebral efficiency and acting as a sort of brain tonic!
USEFUL FOR
Aiding memory, concentration and improves cerebral circulation.
For the elderly, and is used in cases of dementia
Depression.
As a preventative against prevent strokes and thrombus.
For sufferers of multiple sclerosis.
COMBINATIONS
Gingko Leaf with Hawthorn Berry for heart disease.
Gingko Leaf with Agnus Castus for pre-menstrual syndrome.
Gingko Leaf with St JohnΒs Wort for depression and nerve disorders.
Gingko Leaf with Black Cohosh for tinnitus.
Gingko Leaf with Ginger Root to reduce the risk of a stroke.
Gingko Leaf with Korean Ginseng for overwork and exhaustion.
GINSENG-KOREAN
This is the anti-stress herb, supporting the body to cope with the worst effects of fatigue and exhaustion. When taking Gingseng, try to avoid too many other stimulants, such as tea, coffee and cola drinks.
USEFUL FOR
Stress mental and physical.
An aphrodisiac for men.
Improving health and well-being in old age.
COMBINATIONS
Korean Ginseng with Gingko Leaf for over-work and exhaustion.
Korean Ginseng with Damiana for male sexual dysfunction.
Korean Ginseng with Chickweed Ointment for psoriasis.
GOLDEN SEAL
This herb was used by American Indians, and is a potent remedy for mucus membranes throughout the body, i.e. eye, ear, throat, nose, stomach, intestines and vagina.
USEFUL FOR
Respiratory infection.
Infections of the vagina, such as thrush.
Improving digestion and controlling inflammation.
Gastro-intestinal problems.
Peptic ulcers.
Urinary infections. * Improving the appetite, and easing liver disorders.
COMBINATIONS
Golden Seal with Chamomile Flowers for peptic ulcers and gastritis.
Golden Seal with Echinacea Root for conjunctivitis.
Golden Seal with Garlic and Ginger Root for digestive infections.
Golden Seal with Dandelion Root for hay fever.
HAWTHORN BERRY
During the last century, Hawthorn has become recognised as a serious heart herb.
USEFUL FOR
Angina and coronary artery disease.
Easing hypertension, aiding circulation and giving cardio-vascular support.
Stabilising blood pressure Β which helps those who suffer from either high or low blood pressure.
Stabilising irregular heart beats.
Diarrhoea, poor digestion and for bloating, caused around periods and after childbirth.
COMBINATIONS
Hawthorn Berry with Gingko Leaf for heart disease.
Hawthorn Berry with Celery Seed for asthma and bronchitis.
HYSSOP
This herbs properties are anti-inflammatory and anti-viral.
USEFUL FOR
Asthma.
Taking in the very early stages of a cold or flu.
Relieving digestive upsets and nervous tummies. * Uplifting the spirits. particularly in cases of nervous exhaustion caused by over-work and anxiety.
Easing depression and reducing feelings of grief and guilt.
COMBINATIONS
Hyssop with Liquorice for bronchitis.
Hyssop with Mullein for stubborn coughs and weak lungs.
ICELAND MOSS
A highly regarded remedy for upper respiratory ailments, which works positively against bacterial infections and viruses.
USEFUL FOR
Dry, persistent coughs.
Laryngitis and acute/chronic bronchitis.
Chest infections.
COMBINATIONS
Iceland Moss with Lobelia for catarrh.
Iceland Moss with Liquorice for bronchitis.
Iceland Moss with Sage for sore throats.
MARIGOLD
Marigold is essentially a herb for the skin, and is so safe it can be used on the most delicate of skin.
USEFUL FOR
Minor skin complaints, such as cuts, grazes and rashes.
Red and inflamed skin, including minor burns,
and sunburn, also for acne.
Fungal infections such as ringworm, athleteΒs foot and thrush.
Internal use: inflammatory problems of the digestive system, plus liver and gall bladder problems, including hepatitis.
COMBINATIONS
Marigold with Echinacea Root for chronic skin conditions, chronic infections, and chronic inflammatory states.
Marigold with Wild Yam for irregular and painful periods.
MARSHMALLOW
The root and leaves have been used as a vegetable, but it is best known as a herb.
USEFUL FOR
Internal use: inflammation of the mucus membranes, gastritis, enteritis, peptic ulcers and urinary infections such as cystitis.
Bronchial conditions and persistent coughs Β it is widely used as an expectorant.
Easing a hiatus hernia.
External use: wounds, burns, boils, skin ulceration, and for the drawing out of splinters.
COMBINATIONS
Marshmallow with Echinacea Root to ward off coughs and colds.
MELISSA (LEMON BALM)
This herb has had a reputation for being an elixir of youth Β it is certainly a very cheering herb.
USEFUL FOR
Relieving and lifting the spirits, acting as a tonic.
Easing mild depression, restlessness and irritability.
Reducing feelings of nervousness and panic.
For digestive problems caused by stress, including indigestion, colic, bloating and ulcers External use: curing herpes Β apply a cream or lotion to cold sores.
COMBINATIONS
Melissa with Echinacea Root for cold sores.
Melissa with Valerian for insomnia.
Melissa with Gingko for memory.
MILK THISTLE
This is a very important herbal medicine because it protects that vital organ Β the liver.
USEFUL FOR
Treating hepatitis A, and also B and C. * The liver when it is under stress as a result of infection, from alcohol abuse or when chemotherapy is prescribed. In this instance, Milk Thistle will reduce potential damage to the liver and ease side effects.
Increasing breast milk production.
Melancholia, which in itself is often associated with the liver.
COMBINATIONS
Milk Thistle with Dandelion Leaf and Echinacea Root for hepatitis.
Milk Thistle with Dandelion Leaf and Artichoke for cirrhosis.
MINT
There are about thirty different species of mint. Today, peppermint is preferred medicinally in the West, but garden mint, which is less strong, is particularly good for children.
USEFUL FOR
Nausea, particularly ravel sickness.
* Indigestion, flatulence and colic.
Lowering the body temperature in fevers.
Combating infection.
External use: a compress of mint infusion will cool and relieve inflamed joints, rheumatism and neuralgia.
As an infusion. inhale to ease nasal congestion.
Such a diverse herb stands well on its own, and does not need to be combined with other herbs.
MIXED HERBS ROMAGEN ANTI-OXIDANT
HERBAL COMBINATION
This is a wonderful mix of herbs, which is invaluable for clearing the system to restore good health. is an anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti-septic and anti-fungal, which is why the system certainly benefits from the treatment, if you are at all under the weather. The mix of herbs within Romagen should be: Rosemary, Marjoram, Oregano, Peppermint, Sage and Thyme.
USEFUL FOR
After illness, or even simply after a long winter.
Encouraging vitality.
Reducing inflammation and fighting infection.
Shiftings catarrh.
PASSIFLORA
This herb does as the name suggests Β it pacifies! Its properties as a sedative and tranquilliser are now well established.
USEFUL FOR
Stemming the senses of panic and over-activity.
Insomnia created by stress and over-work.
Cases of convulsions and petit mal.
Controlling hypertension, palpitations, period pains and even asthma.
COMBINATIONS
Passiflora with Valerian Root for insomnia.
Passiflora with Feverfew for migraine and headaches.
Passiflora with Chamomile Flowers for irritable bowel syndrome.
PSYLLIUM HUSK
This is most often taken by people wishing to lose weight.
USEFUL FOR
Constipation
Diarrhoea.
Irritable bowel syndrome. Β Diverticulitis
Haemorrhoids.
COMBINATIONS
Psyllium Husk with Boldo for slimming diets.
Psyllium Husk with Kelp for weight reduction.
Psyllium Husk with Fenugreek for irritable bowel syndrome.
Psyllium Husk with Slippery Elm for intestinal upsets.
RASPBERRY LEAF
For many years, this herb has been used as a remedy for the latter stages of pregnancy, being taken during the last trimester. It stimulates the longitudinal muscles of the womb and helps relax the cervix, thereby increasing the effectiveness of contractions.
USEFUL FOR
Nausea during pregnancy.
Helping to prevent miscarriage.
Heavy menstrual bleeding and reducing spasmodic period pains.
Healing wounds, burns and irritated skin.
Relieving sore throats, mouth ulcers, gingivitis and conjunctivitis.
As a long-term supplement to help prevent the onset of oste-oporosis. COMBINATIONS
Raspberry Leaf with Black Cohosh for spasmodic period pains.
Raspberry Leaf with Cranesbill for diarrhoea.
RED CLOVER
This herb is a great aid to chronic skin disease, particularly in young people.
USEFUL FOR
Eczema and psoriasis.
Coughs, particularly whooping cough.
Treatment of cancers.
COMBINATIONS
Red Clover with Chickwed Ointment for eczema.
ROSEMARY
A herb to raise the spirits! Rosemary is a stimulant and tonic for both heart and nervous system, and uplifts and energises both the mind and the body.
USEFUL FOR
Improving memory.
Relieving headaches and migraines.
Improving hair growth.
Encouraging recovery after a long-term stressful illness.
Promoting optimism and improving well-being.
COMBINATIONS
Rosemary with St JohnΒs Wort and Lemon Balm for depression.
Rosemary with Yarrow for Βfailure to thrive.
Rosemary with Echinacea Root for chronic infections.
ST JOHNS WORT
This has become one of todayΒs best-known herbs for relieving depression.
USEFUL FOR
Depression Β tension, anxiety, insomnia and menopausal problems.
Treating hepatitis, flu and even HIV/AIDS.
COMBINATIONS
St Johns Wort with Black Cohosh for menopausal problems, including hot flushes.
St Johns Wort with Damiana for depression linked to nervous exhaustion.
St Johns Wort with Echinacea Root and Lemon Balm for viral infections, especially herpes.
Do not take St JohnΒs Wort if you are regularly taking prescription medicines, without consultation.
SAGE LEAF
Best known as a herb for the throat. Its properties are of an anti-septic, an astringent and also relax the throat.
USEFUL FOR
All throat infections.
Relieving symptoms of the menopause, particularly hot flushes.
Helping the body to adjust to hormonal changes.
COMBINATIONS
Sage with Agnus Castus for menopausal problems.
Sage with Echinacea Root for chronic sore throats.
Sage with Echinacea Root and Ginger Root for gastro-enteritis.
SKULLCAP
This herb soothes and strengthens both the nervous system and the digestion.
USEFUL FOR
Relieving the effects of long-term stress and anxiety, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, irritability, depression and headaches. * Nerve-related disorders such as shock, overwork and chronic fatigue.
Convulsions, epilepsy and serious mental illness.
COMBINATIONS
Skullcap with Lime Flowers for anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and panic attacks.
Skullcap with St JohnΒs Wort for nervous exhaustion, depression and pre-menstrual tension.
SLIPPERY ELM
It is perhaps best known as a ΒtummyΒ herb, and has great soothing effects.
USEFUL FOR
gastro-enteritis, diarrhoea, and any form of weakened digestion.
Colic and spasms within the gut.
Colitis, irritable bowel and internal hemorrhoids.
Constipation.
Chest conditions Β from coughs and colds through to bronchitis, pleurisy and tuberculosis. The powdered bark is particularly good for sore throats. Slippery Elm is rarely sold in pieces
COMBINATIONS
Slippery Elm with Thyme for chronic coughs.
Slippery Elm with Cranesbill for diarrhoea.
Slippery Elm with Chamomile Flowers or Fenugreek for gastritis and peptic ulcers.
TEA TREE
The oil found within the cells of the leaves is renowned for its amazing anti-septic qualities. Tea Tree is also anti-fungal, a germicide and possesses rejuvenating properties.
USEFUL FOR
In the form of oil, cream and lotion herpes, acne, athleteΒs foot, nappy rash, sore throats, gingivitis, minor burns, sunburn, heat rash, ear infections, mouth ulcers, cuts, dandruff, sinusitis and bronchial congestion.
COMBINATIONS
There are numerous valuable combinations: the general rule is to apply Tea Tree externally, supported by another herb taken internally, For example, Tea Tree applied to spots and Echinacea Root taken internally.
VALERIAN ROOT
This is natureΒs tranquillizer.
USEFUL FOR * Promoting good sleep, affecting not only the length of sleep, but also the quality, encouraging deeper sleep with less frequent waking. It is not thought to produce drowsiness, so it is quite safe to drive a car and work machinery while taking a course.
Nervous disorders, such as panic attacks, sweating and palpitations.
High blood pressure is caused by stress.
COMBINATIONS
Valerian Root with Hawthorn Berry for high blood pressure linked to stress.
Valerian Root with St JohnΒs Wort for insomnia and anxiety linked to depression.
Valerian Root with Chamomile Flowers for digestive and menstrual cramping pains, and deep sleep.
Valerian Root with Kava Kava for anxiety and insomnia.
WILD YAM
This has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic powers which make it a valuable remedy, particularly where hot, inflamed joints are concerned.
USEFUL FOR
Rheumatism and arthritis.
Relieving muscle spasms and pain.
Relieving menstrual cramps, the pain of periods and of childbirth.
A tonic for the liver.
COMBINATIONS
Wild Yam with DevilΒs Claw and Willow Bark for inflammatory arthritic conditions.
Wild Yam with Capsicum and Black Cohosh for osteo-arthritis.
Wild Yam with Agnus Castus for pre-menstrual syndrome.
Wild Yam with Fenugreek for diverticulitis.
WILLOW BARK
This remedy mirrors Aspirin in many respects. It eases pain, reduces fever and is anti-inflammatory, but it does not have the blood thinning properties of Aspirin.
USEFUL FOR
Arthritic conditions Β it is best taken with a combination of other herbs.
COMBINATIONS
Willow Bark with Celery Seed and Dandelion Leaf for osteo-arthritis and joint pain.
Willow Bark with DevilΒs Claw and/or Black Cohosh for rheumatoid and other inflammatory arthritis.
Willow Bark with Feverfew for headache and migraine.
Willow Bark with Buchu Leaf for prostatis.
WITCH HAZEL
This is for is for external use only.
USEFUL FOR
Inflamed and tender skin.
Bruises, cuts, sprains and swellings.
Sagging skin Β it is now known as a cosmetic as much as a medicine.
Eye problems. Distilled Witch Hazel water makes a very good eye wash for tired, bruised or inflamed eyes, and for conjunctivitis.
COMBINATIONS
Witch Hazel with Marigold for inflamed skin.
Witch Hazel with Echinacea Root for weeping skin infections.
Witch Hazel distilled with Rose Water as a skin tonic.
YARROW
This is valued for its action in cold and influenza.
USEFUL FOR
Catarrh.
Cardio-vascular complaints.
Hay fever (as an inhalation).
Blood-clotting, in the case nose bleeds, where fresh leaves can be inserted in the nostrils to stop bleeding.
COMBINATIONS
Yarrow with St JohnΒs Wort for inflamed joints.
Witch Hazel with Peppermint or Hyssop for chesty colds.
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Sprouting Equipment
