Get A Jump On Spring Health!

G'morning all!

Well spring  is right around the corner, and I am sure, like me, you are definitely ready for the lovely warm days, the smell of fresh flowers pushing themselves up out of the ground, the scent of freshly mowed grass....all of these delights help bring us out of our winter cocoon!

We, just like the earth, fare better if we ease into spring; while we may have 'spring fever', and want to jump right into gardening, doing too much too fast, can leave you watching spring unfold on the sidelines while your body tries to heal from over-used muscles and exhaustion; as most of us tend to 'hibernate' during winter, we need to ready ourselves for the hectic months ahead by gently cleansing our body systems; building up our over-worked immune systems; nourish your body with energizing teas, smoothies, and juices and exercising more.

Today's post is going to inform you of great herbal recipes to help your body get hoppin'....for spring!!

Liver Cleanses~Winter brings us holidays and heavy foods which can lead to a sluggish liver. But don't fret, Gaia (Mother Earth) gives us plenty of  vibrate wild greens that help cleanse our liver.

Try making a salad with dandelion leaves, wild mustard greens, chickweed and wild sorrel among others, with a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. You can purchase organic spring greens at most farmers' markets if you don't have access to pollution-free wild plants. Better yet, grow it yourself!

You can also use the below recipe for a tea decoction. Drink three cups a day over a period of a few weeks:

• 2 tsp dandelion root
• 2 tsp burdock root
• 2 tsp milk thistle seeds
• 1 tsp licorice root
• 3 cups water

To Make a Decoction~Combine herbs and water in a covered pot. Bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain the tea and store unused portion in the refrigerator.

Lymphatic Cleanse~The lymphatic system depends on external pressure to keep the lymphatic fluid circulating. During physical activity, muscle contractions and the increased action of the lungs stimulates that pressure and generates a vigorous movement of lymph. If you've gone through a winter of low activity, this could mean your lymphatic system is not in optimum shape. Embarking on an exercise program will start the fluid flowing again and a good cleanse will help decongest the lymph glands.

The following tea made as an infusion, once or twice a day over a period of a few weeks:

• 2 tsp dried cleavers ( or tbsp fresh )
• 2 tsp dried red clover blossom ( or 2 tbsp fresh )
• 2 cups water

To Make An Infusion: Combine herbs in a teapot, pour boiling water over them, cover, and let steep 15 minutes. Strain the tea and store the unused portion in the refrigerator.

Colon Cleanse~For a lethargic and slow-moving digestive system, there are several ways you can gently stimulate and cleanse it:

• Increase your daily water intake to eight cups.
• Eat one or two apples daily. The high water content and pectin help regulate bowel function and intestinal health.
• Up your intake of fresh fruits and veggies
• For a stinger effect, combine a glass of water or aloe vera juice with a tbsp of fiber such as psyllium husks or ground flaxmeal. Drink this morning and evening to stimulate a congested colon. Because of the high fiber content, make sure you also drink several glasses of water during.

Boosting Your Immune System~Has your body suffered through colds and flu this winter? You can give your immune system some tender loving care by turning your back on sugary treats that soothed during the dark wintery days. Sugar reduces the ability of white blood cells to fight viruses and bacteria in your body, and the effect can last for up to five hours. Adding friendly bacteria in your digestive system also offers a vital line of immune defense. You can replenish these defenders by eating two or more cups of organic yogurt a day. To ramp up the process, purchase a good probiotic supplement and follow the dosage directions

Immune Tonic~The following formula incorporates herbs that increase the activity of T-cells, NK cells, interferon, lymphocytes, and cacrophages.

 As an added bonus, this blend helps stimulate spleen activity and strengthen the lymphatic system. This is best taken as a tincture, but you can also make a decoction. (see above for decoction tincture directions ):

• 1 part astragalus root
• 1 part shitake muchrooms (dried if making a tincture)
• 1 part ashwagandha root
• 1/2 redroot (Ceanothus spp)

Immune-Boosting Smoothie~Look for ingredients with the following to support the immune system; vitamin C and E, carotenoids, bioflavonoids, selenium, copper, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

The following recipe supplies probiotics, immune-boosting chemical constituents, antioxidants, zinc and vitamin C:

• 1/2 to 1 cup of yogurt
• 1 tsp powdered astragalus
• Handful of blueberries
• Handful of blackberries
• 1 kiwi fruit
• 1 orange

Don't worry too much about the measurements, feel free to experiment with ingredient rations to find a flavor you like best.



Your Guide To How Foods Relieve Stress

G'morning everyone....

I have shared with you all a great deal on herbs, flowers, aromatherapy etc...but we cannot forget that what we buy at the supermarket to eat is just as important to our minds, bodies and emotions as herbs and aromatherapy are. So today's post is on foods that help you relieve stress..

~Peace~

(Blogger is not letting me put the rest of the pics in, so this is it for now)

How Foods Relieve Stress



Anti-Stress B Vitamins~Under stress, the adrenal glands are put under strain due to the increase in production of adrenaline. All the B vitamins support the adrenal glands. Good foods to boost levels of B vitamins are:

• Brewers Yeast
• Brown Rice
• Wheatgerm
• Soya Beans
• Fish
• Whole Grains
• Dairy Products
• Liver

Vitamin B5~Found in:

• Mushrooms
• Avocado
• Wholegrains
• Leafy Vegetables

Vitamin B6~Found in the foods below can lift your mood:

• Wholegrains
• Shellfish such as shrimp, mussels, Lobster

Antioxidants: Fight Free Radicals~Antioxidants are needed to fight destructive free radicals. These are produced naturally by the body in times of stress and can cause cell damage, impair mental performance and lead to illness. he following fresh foods are the best source of antioxidants:

Vitamin E:

• Almonds
• Walnuts
• Sesame Seeds
• Sunflower Seeds

Zinc:

• Oysters
• Seeds
• Ginger Root
• Brewers Yeast

Selenium:

• Brazil Nuts
• Shellfish
• Wholegrains

Vitamin A & Beta Carotene:

• Fish Oils
• Egg Yolk
• Yellow and Orange Fruits and Vegetables

Vitamin C~Is essential for the healthy function of the adrenal gland and is also a potent antioxidant. try to eat extra vitamin C rich foods several times a day during periods of stress/, because the body will use more than normal and vitamin C can't be stored in the body tissue for later use. Vitamin C easily degrades when exposed to air, so if you make fresh juices, drink them right away.

The Best Sources of Vitamin C Are:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables especially red and black berries
• Kiwi
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Peppers of any color

Magnesium, Calcium & Potassium~Magnesium and calcium work in partnership and are both depleted during times of stress. An increased intake will help prevent insomnia, fatigue, restlessness, cloudy thinking and irritability. Good sources of Magnesium are:

• Wheatgerm
• Nuts
• Wholegrains

Calcium:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Dairy products

Calcium has a particularly calming effect.

Potassium:

• Watercress
• Celery
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Radish
• Avocado

Potassium is needed to ward off mental confusion and depression.







Chromium And Slow Releasing Carbs~Following the adrenaline rush brought on by stress, the body suffers an energy slump and needs a boost.

Complex Carbohydrates:

• Wholegrains
• Beans
• Lentils

These foods release energy gradually and aid production of mood-boosting serotonin.


Chromium:

• Brewers Yeast
• Wholemeal Bread
• Potatoes
• Green Peppers
• Chicken
• Lamb

Chromium balances blood sugar levels

Herbal Stress-Busters

Rose Hips~Contain vitamin C and combat stress. They can be taken fresh (2-3 tsp) or dried (1 tsp) in a cup of water.



Valerian~1 tsp of dried valerian root in a cup of hot water once a day (or before bed) will promote relaxation and sleep.



Peppermint~A tbsp of Fresh peppermint leaves in hot water or a tsp of the dried leaves, taken three times a day will relax muscles.



Hops~2-6 tsp of hops a day soothes due to sedative and muscle relaxing qualities.



Oats~Soak oats in hot water or make as porridge to calm frayed nerves.

Flowers That Heal Pt. 3

G'morning all...

Today I am going to finish sharing the healing properties of flowers. If you have missed the first 2 parts of this post, feel free to click on the "natural healing posts" on the right of this page.

~Peace~

Flowers That Heal 3rd And Final Part In Series

Hops (humulus lupulus)~This vine produces pale green flower heads called strobiles. These have been employed since ancient times for their sedative properties. An infusion or tincture is a fast-acting antidote for nervous tension or anxiety. Hops release tension, calming the mind for a restful night's sleep, and stimulate the stomach glands, aiding digestion. They alleviate intestinal cramps and reduce flatulence. A compress can relieve skin inflammations.

Meadowsweet (filipendula ulmaria)~Also know as "Queen of the Meadows" this sweetly-scented wild flower thrive in damp meadows and waysides. The flowering tops contain salicylates, a natural form of aspirin. An infusion of the flowers will bring the benefits of aspirin, while protecting the stomach from ulceration. Meadowsweet is used to treat arthritis, rheumatism and joint pain. Not only does it reduce inflammation, it also neutralizes acids that accumulate in painful joints. The flowers are a gentle but effective digestive remedy. They reduce acid indigestion, gastritis and heartburn. Meadowsweet is also healing for peptic ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.

Heather (calluna vulgaris)~Heaths moors, and mountains are clad with lilac heather during the summer. Their tiny, bell-shaped flowers are rich in nectar and attract bees. The resulting honey is delicately flavored and is believed to be beneficial for fortifying the body after illness. Heather flowers have antiseptic properties that disinfect the urinary tract. Heather tones the bladder and kidneys. A poultice of the dried flowers is a useful winter treatment for rheumatic aches and pains, and for stimulating a sluggish circulation.

Marigold (calendula officinalis)~The bright orange flower heads of marigold are cleansing, strengthening and detoxifying. The antiseptic flowers are valuable for treating fungal infections such as candida, and viruses including flu and herpes. Marigold reduces lymphatic congestion and strengthens the immune system. It brings out toxins during chickenpox and measles. Marigold aids inflammatory digestive disorders including gastroenteritis and ulcers. It reduces period pains and regulates the menstrual cycle. It is also  an excellent first aid ointment, healing burns, insect bites and corns, calluses and varicose veins.

Honeysuckle (lonicera periclymenum)~The scent of honeysuckle calms nervous tension and promotes a sense of well-being. The dried flowers can be added to potpourri herbal pillows for a restful night's sleep. A syrup or infusion of flowers eases colds, fevers aches and pains. The petals contain salicylic acid, a natural form of aspirin, which is responsible for it pain relieving action. It also has a reputation for relieving asthma, and is a good lotion for minor skin infections.



Flowers That Heal Pt. 2

G'morning all....

Welcome to Pt.2 of flowers that heal. These flowers can be found in the countryside and makes a day of searching for them fun and exciting!

Especially wonderful to get your children and grand kids in on the fun of identifying and using flowers to protect and guard your health....

~Peace~

Flowers That Heal Pt. 2

EyeBright (euphrasia officinalis)~The tiny flowers of eyebright are found in temperate meadows and moorlands. The aerial parts of the annual plant, including the flowers, have antiseptic and stringent properties. Eyebright has a long history of healing associated with the eye. An infusion makes an excellent eyewash for relieving sore eyes and will fight infection. Eyebright is a useful treatment for eye conditions such as conjunctivitis and  blepharitis. Eyebright tightens the  mucus membrane and reduces the formation of liquid mucus. A herbal tea relieves eye, ear, and throat infections and counters allergic rhinitis and hay fever.

Sweet Violet (viola odorata)~The delicate flowers of violet range in color from deep purple to pure white. Violet flowers feature in alternative therapy treatments for breast and stomach cancers and are believed to reduce the risk of secondary tumors. The flowers also have applications for everyday ailments. Their gentle expectorant properties make an infusion or syrup a soothing treatment for respiratory treatment for respiratory ailments, such as coughs, bronchitis and headaches. Applied externally as a poultice, violets heal pimples, boils and abscesses.

Chamomile (chamomilla recutita)~The familiar, daisy-like flowers of chamomile have remarkable healing properties for both the mind and body. Chamomile is a calming tonic for digestive disorders. It works by relaxing the muscles of the respiratory tract, easing colic, abdominal pain and excess wind. It is rich in plant bitters that stimulate the flow of digestive juices. Chamomile also heals gastric and peptic ulcers, and is useful for treating stress-related digestion problems, its natural sedative effects make it a calming remedy for stress and anxiety. It is gentle enough to apply to over-tired children or elderly people suffering from sleep disorders.

Cowslip (primula veris)~An infusion of fresh cowslip flowers quiets an over-active mind, eases tension and relieves anxiety. The petals calm hyperactivity in children. The apricot-tasting flowers an be incorporated into salads. A flower tincture is helpful for treating allergic reactions, including asthma. Cowslip flowers have been used for centuries as a beauty aid, and added to ointments and creams, they can fade blemishes and soothe mild sunburn. The closely-related primrose flower also shares many of cowslip's properties.

White Deadnettle (lamium album)~This plant, with its nettle-like leaves, bears clusters of double-lipped, white flowers. The flowering tops of the plant are used to prepare healing infusions and tinctures. White deadnettle's astringent action, due to tannins, makes it useful for stemming diarrhea. A poultice gives relief from varicose veins, boils, ulcers and hemorrhoids and ingested internally, it can provide relief for irritable bowel syndrome and piles. White deadnettle has a long history of use in treating gynecological conditions. It reduces excessive menstrual flow, and is used as a douche to treat abnormal vaginal discharges and cystitis.

Flowers That Heal Pt. 1

G'morning my wonderful fellow herb lovers!

In prior posts I have shared with you the healing properties of berries, leaves and herbs; today I am going to share the healing properties of flowers.

Flowers That Heal

Red Clover (trifolium pratense)~Red clover flowers have remarkable health benefits for older women. it is often prescribed in herbal treatments for breast and ovarian cancer. It is rich in isoflavones, which have phyto-estrogenic activity. Menopausal women find it alleviates symptoms associated with falling estrogen levels. Clover can be applied as a compress to relieve arthritis and gout. Crushed florets of this fresh flowers make a natural remedy for bites and stings.

Elder (sambucus nigra)~The creamy florets of elder are  common sight in May. The flowers have versatile healing properties, giving the shrub its old country name of "Nature's medicine chest." Its antiviral properties and expectorant action make it n effective treatment for respiratory ailments. It also helps to fight infections by nourishing the body's immune system. Elderflower are believed to balance mucus secretions in the respiratory tract, making it a valuable remedy for chronic sufferers of hay fever, asthma and allergic rhinitis. An infusion is diuretic, stimulating urine production and balancing body fluids. The flowers make a soothing anti-inflammatory facial cleanser.

Tansy (tanacetum vulgare)~The late summer flowers of tansy are like little yellow buttons. traditionally, the flowers were incorporated into cakes and puddings and were served to children to expel thread and round worms. The plant's potent insecticidal properties can make it hazardous though and tansy is now only administered under the supervision of a qualified herbalist. Applied as a poultice, tansy can be used to treat rheumatic joints. It is also very helpful in ridding the house of infestation of fleas or lice.

St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum)~The golden, star-like flowers of St. John's Wort stud waysides in summer. The flowering tops can be made into healing infusions, tinctures and, for external use, infused oil, cream r lotion. It is an effective herbal antidepressant and helps to educe anxiety and nervous tension.  The flowers have potent antiviral properties, which have been valuable  in the treatment of hepatitis B and C, and HIV and Aids. Externally, St. John's Wort soothes cuts and burns. Its antiseptic action kills germs and promotes tissue repair, reducing the risk of scarring. Neuralgia and sciatic benefit  from the analgesic action f St. John's Wort.

Dog Rose (rosa canina)~Perfumed rose petals have many medicinal virtues. Rose cools fevers and reduces catarrh and bronchial congestion. Its diuretic action increases urine production and stimulates the immune system. After a course of antibiotics, rose helps to balance the stomach's population of "good" bacteria. Rose petals relieve  heavy, painful periods and are believed to aid female fertility. Rose promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation.

Are You Stressed? Take This Quick Stress Test And Find Out-It Could Save Your Life

How Stressed Are You?

When you go through daily life where stress is a daily occurrence, chances are that you don't always realize the effect it's having on you and your body. This is very dangerous, due to the fact that when the symptoms of stress are frequent enough,  you'll eventually convince yourself that these are normal feelings, and you will be less likely to deal with them.

The test below can help you see if you are stressed. If the results show you are, don't let that stress you; instead, look at the areas in your life that are causing the stress and work out a plan to calm these areas.

Alternative healing can be the best way to help facilitate your stress relief by targeting the symptoms and the underlying cause of a problem.

You have the option of using prescribed western medicine, though most have horrible side-effects and they tend to mask the problem, which then becomes a never-ending battle.

Some great alternative therapies include but are not limited to:

Acupressure

Acupuncture

Hypnosis

Herbalism

Homeopathy

Osteopathy

Reflexology

Shiatsu massage

As you see, there are many (so many more that are not included) different roads to relief to choose from, possibly more than you ever thought.

Healing Stress Test

The following test will ask you questions to which you pick the number that corresponds to your answer, add your score and then continue to the stress analysis scores to find out where your scores land you.

Responses:

1. Never
2.  Sometimes
3. Often
4. Always

Questions

I find it hard to get up in the morning and go to work

I bottle up my feelings until I want to explode

I am tired all the time

I feel as though my work or family life is worthless

I am busy all the time, but I don't seem to get much done

I find it hard to sit and read, or take time to relax and pursue my hobbies

I tend to try to avoid confrontations or resolving difficult situations at work or at home

I find it hard to say no to people's requests

I regularly get colds, headaches or other illnesses

Stress Analysis

10-20 Points~When new or challenging situations arise, you take them in your stride. You manage stress well and don't let it get the better of you. But remember that too little stress can be unstimulating.

21-30 Points~You get stressed, but it's not causing you any major health or lifestyle problems. Prevent future problems by adopting some stress strategies.

31-40 Points~Your stress levels are dangerously high and your health is suffering. Reassess what's important to you. Reduce stress in your life and use some stress strategies to get calm and healthy.

Stress Relievers

Aromatherapy~Enjoy the relaxing, uplifting effects of essential oils by adding them to an oil burner, massage oil or warm bath. The best oils for de-stessing are lavender, bergamot, clary sage, german chamomile, rosewood and sandalwood.

Self-Massage~Give yourself a massage with blended oil using a bath mitt or brush. Swap massages with your partner or a good friend. Gentle massage relaxes tense muscles and relieves pain. It also rebalances the nervous system, helping you feel calm and regain perspective.

Meditation~By meditating, you focus your mind on one relaxing thought for a period of time. You can focus on your own breathing, an object such as a candle flame, a sound you make or a pleasant image you conjure in your mind. Sit or lie in a quiet place in order to meditate effectively. Adding scents like Frankincense, Myrrh and/or Benzoin are wonderful scents for meditation and mind relaxation.



Your Guide To Herbs And Fruits Of Summer Pt. 1

Merry Friday All!

A few days ago I posted about fruits and herbs for Spring, today I am going to start herbs and fruits for Summer...Enjoy!

~Peace~

Summer Herbs And Fruits



Rasberry (rubus idaeus)

Description: Prickly deciduous shrub with white flowers and hairy red fruits.

Habitat: Native to Europe and Asia

Part Used: Leaves and fruit

Preparations: Infusion and decoction of leaves. Syrup and lotion of fruit

Medicinal Action: Infusion of leaves harmonizes uterine function, and syrup of fruit is antiviral

Active Ingredients: Polypeptides, flavonoids, tannins

***Safety Note: Do not take during early pregnancy****

Feverfew (tanacetum parthenium)

Description: Herbaceous perennial member of the daisy family with pale green flat leaves and yellow and white flowers

Habitat: Native to southern Europe and dry grasslands in temperate regions

Part Used: Aerial parts when in flower

Preparations: Fresh leaves eaten, tincture or infusion

Medicinal Action: Analgesic and fever-reducing for shivery colds and flu. Soothing for headaches, migrain and period pains. Remedy for arthritis

Active Ingredients: Sequisterpenes, lactones and volatile oils

****Safety Note: Do not take in conjunction with blood-thinning drugs****

Wild Strawberry (fragaria vesca)

Description: Low-growing creeping perennial, member of the rose family. Small four-petalled white flowers with red berries

Habitat: Grass banks in Alpine meadows

Part Used: Leaves, fruit and roots

Preparation: Poultice of berries and infusion of leaves

Medicinal Action: Aids digestion and soothes sunburn

Active Ingredients: Tannins, mucilagem sugars, fruit acids, salicylates

****Safety Note: Can cause skin rashes****

Rose Flowers (rosa gallica)

Description: Thorny shrub with pink flowers, followed by scarlet berries (hips)

Habitat: Cultivated for thousands of years in the Middle East area

Part Used: Flower petals, harvested in full bloom in dry weather

Preparations: Lotions and creams, distilled in alcohol, flower water and infusions

Medicinal Action: Taken internally, an infusion of rose flowers will cool fevers and relieve cold and flu infection. Decongestant to the female reproductive system, easing heavy, painful periods. Used externally to repair tissue and reduce inflammation and skin blemishes

Active Ingredients: Volatile oils

****Safety Note: Avoid when pregnant****

European Honeysuckle (lonicera periclymenum)

Description: Climbing plant with oval leaves and tubular flowers with red berries

Habitat: Native to European forests. Grows wild in hedgerows and on walls

Part Used: Flowers

Preparations: Infusions and syrups

Medicinal Action: Diuretic, antispasmodic, expectorant. Soothing for chesty coughs and asthma

Active Ingredients: Iridoids, tannins, flavonoids and mucilage

****Safety Note: Berries contain poison****



Leaves Of Health

G'morning everyone....Welcome to Monday.

We all know how wonderful flowers are visually, the scent of their perfume; we even know they can heal, but did you know the leaves can heal us as well? Read on for your reference chart for Healing Leaves...

 

~Peace~

Leaves Of Health

Dandelion (taraxacum officinalis)

The first leaves of this familiar weed can be added to a green salad for a nutritious spring tonic. They are rich in minerals, especially iron and potassium, and vitamins A, B, C and D. The leaves have powerful detoxifying actions. Bitter compounds in the leaves stimulate digestive juices, which regulates digestion. dandelion's diuretic actions treat cellulite, water retention and urinary infections. Dandelion reduces uric acid, which relieves gout and arthritis. It is a blood-building herb that is helpful for anemics, strengthens circulation and reduces cholesterol.

Vervain (verbena officinalis)

The leaves of this slender herb are a tonic for 21st-century living. Their gentle relaxant action is a remedy for anxiety, nervous tension and depression. Their use strengthens the nervous system in cases of nervous exhaustion. Vervain can treat colds and fever headaches and helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. It strengthens digestion and supports the function of the liver, making it an excellent herb for convalescents. It can also stimulate the production of milk in nursing mothers. One of vervain's most important uses, however, is as a tonic for the nervous system, helping you to get going again after an illness and preventing nervous exhaustion or breakdown.

Feverfew (tanacetum parthenium)

This herbs name is derived from its ability to lower body temperature, cooling fevers. Its natural protection against migraine is due to to parthenolides that tighten the cerebral blood vessels. Taken at the beginning of an attack,it reduces severity and associated symptoms, such as dizziness and vomiting. Feverfew helps rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the formation of prostalandins and leukotrienes that cause inflammation. The herb has also been used as a woman's tonic for thousands of years to stimulate the uterus.

Lady's Mantle (alchemilla vulgaris)

Lady's mantle has been prized by women for many centuries. It has been cultivated in kitchen gardens as well as collected from meadows and moorlands. Taken as a decoction or infusion, lady's mantle helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the flow of heavy periods. It is often used to treat vaginal itching, fibroids and endometriosis.

Lady's mantle has a decongestant action on the liver, and its astringent properties make it helpful for treating diarrhea and gastroenteritis. An ointment preparedd from the leaves serves to staunch blood flow from wounds. It also makes a cream to dry up weeping eczema.

Watercress (nasturtium officinale)

Watercress has nutritious leaves packed with minerals and vitamins. They make a healthy addition to salads, boosting mental and physical  vitality, mental and physical vitality. Watercress is thought to enhance stamina. It reduces mucus production in respiratory  infections and is an expectorant for chesty coughs. It stimulates digestion by enhancing enzyme secretions. externally, it treats eruptive skin infections and reduces pimples.

Coltsfoot (tussilago farfara)

Having been uses as a traditional cough syrup for thousands of years, coltsfoot remains one of the best remedies for stubborn coughs. A decoction or syrup is an effective decongestant and is antiseptic for respiratory ailments, including bronchitis and asthma. Its anti-inflammatory action soothes the respiratory tract. It is an expectorant for the treatment of chronic coughs that can linger for weeks.

Coltsfoot is rich in zinc, which is used by the body to boost immunity to infection. The fresh leaves, applied as a poultice are useful fr sores and wounds that are slow to heal. coltsfoot is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and stimulant for the immune system.

Yarrow ( achillea millefolium)

The leaves of yarrow are packed with healing volatile oils, tannins and resins. These give the herb a vast array of applications. Yarrow is an ideal ointment for cuts and bruises. It staunches bleeding, is antiseptic and contains silica, which promotes tissue repair. Its bitter compounds regulate digestion and stimulate the liver and gall bladder. It stimulates circulation, lowers blood pressure, improves varicose circulation and tines varicose veins. A remedy for chickenpox and measles, yarrow helps to bring out the rashes in eruptive diseases.

Shepherd's Purse (capsella bursa-pastoris)

This tiny, annual, wayside wild plant is easily overlooked, yet it has potent properties for preventing hemorrhages. It was employed during the First World War for treating major wounds. It stems internal and external bleeding and is useful for treating nosebleeds and blood in the urine.

Shepherd's purse is an astringent disinfectant for the urinary tract, giving relief from cystitis, diarrhea nd dysentery as well as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and their similar upsets of the bowel. It also constricts the blood vessels, helping to regulate blood pressure and promoting healing action. It is valued for its ability to cool fevers.

Burdock (arctium lappa)

A traditional cleansing tonic, burdock leaves detox the digestion and skin by enhancing the elimination of waste products. It has antibiotic and antifungle properties and s an effective healer for cold sores, ringworm and athlete's foot. It heals boils rashes and chronic skin inflammation, and speeds recovery from infections such as mumps, measles nd chickenpox. It re-establishes a healthy bacteria population in the gut after antibiotics.

Agrimony (agrimonia eupatoria)

The leaves of this meadow herb were once used as a battle herb for healing the wounds of our ancestors, sustained on the battlefield,. The astringent leaves staunch bleeding and encourage blood to clot. Use them to treat skin sores ulcers, minor wounds, eczema and skin inflammations.

An infusion is astringent to sore throats and make an effective eyewash for conjunctivitis. Taken internally, agrimony is a gently cleaning diuretic. It fortifies the kidneys, liver and gall bladder assisting the assimilation of food. Its use reduces the risk of stomach ulcers. Agrimony is also believed to help strengthen and tone body muscle.

Yellow Dock (rumex cripis)

The stout leaves of this perennial weed are used for their revitalizing detoxing properties,. Doc is cooling an healing for inflamed skin conditions. Wash with a decoction for weeping eczema and psoriasis, boils ulcrs and fungal skin infections. An infusion will mobilize a congested circulation and chronic lymphatic congestion. It is a tonic for the liver, helping the body to overcome debility and lethargy. Use for cystitis water retention, constipation, as well as rheumatic conditions, ulcers and gum infections and as a gargle to heal sore throats and laryngitis.

Betony (stachys officinalis)

The aromatic, slightly hairy leaves of betony were used as a tonic in anglo-Saxon medicine. They are employed today in the relief of headaches and neck pain. The herb relaxes the nervous system and gives calming relief to stress and nervous tension, often the cause of headaches.

Nettle (urtical dioica)

Nettle leaves as a vegetable or in a soup are a natural, nourishing food. They are rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins A ad C, iron, potassium and silica, and are  restorative for anemic and convalescents. Nettle's diuretic properties cleanse the urinary tract, giving relief from fluid retention, cystitis and kidney stones. It is astringent for the respiratory system, clearing nasal congestion from viruses, hay fever and asthma.

Plantain (plantago ianceolata)

Plantain leaves have healing properties for respiratory ailments. They  are antiseptic and reduce the secretion of mucus. Use them to treat colds and flu, bronchial infections,glue ear and pneumonia. They are also helpful at drying congestion in chronic  allergic conditions, such as hay fever  and asthma

Plantain is soothing for stomach and bowel infections. It is a remedy for cystitis urethritis, and urinary infections. It relaxes digestive spasms, relieving heartburn ad flatulence. Its laxative action relieves chronic constipation and Iritable Bowel Syndrome. Plantain is rich in silica and zinc, which stem bleeding. Use as first aid for minor injuries.

Silverweed (potentilla anserna)

The toothed leaves of this widespread plant are rich in healing ellagitannin, flavonoids and bitters. Silverweed is a potent astringent and is anti-inflammatory for the respiratory and urinary tracts. It can be employed to treat diarrhea and gastroenteritis ad is a remedy for painful menstruation. A decoction of silverweed has been used in the pat to staunch minor cuts and wounds.