health and wellness

Just as there are a number of versatile herbs that treat a range of ailments, so too are there essential oils that provide multiple medicinal benefits. Place these at the top of your “healing oils” shopping list just to name a few… Frankincense, clove, lavender, orange, peppermint, oregano, rosemary, eucalyptus, & tea tree oil…

Their baby-boomer level of activism has turned inward, toward themselves, and seniors work hard at staying in shape and keeping up social contacts. Still, the onset of old age brings new, unfamiliar medical challenges to many senior adults – including bone-density loss, failing joints, faulty memories, and reproductive system and sexual problems. Some of these health issues can be forestalled, or even prevented, by targeting them with specific herbs and botanicals…

The American Academy of pediatrics advises against giving herbs to babies under six months. Some gentle herbs that should be safe to administer are chamomile, catnip, and mint. But always check for adverse reactions when first offering anything new. Also, babies under two should never be fed honey, which can contain botulism.

The majority of babies are strong and remarkably resilient, – they get rather squished squeezing out of a very  tight spot and yet manage to look properly rounded and adorable soon after. But when things go wrong health-wise, and they have no way to explain their pain or distress. New parents play a constant guessing game trying to find out what’s wrong with the baby and why she won’t stop crying. For anxious parents, herbal treatment can be both gentle and effective.  For examples in the way that herbs can calm babies and of which are safe for soothing babies includes chamomile, catnip, lemon balm, spearmint, rose petals, and lavender. Catnip can also be used to treat low-grade fevers, upper respiratory infections, headaches, sleep problems, and indigestion.

Even women basking in the glow of pregnancy will inevitably have to face some health side effects-many of which can be alleviated by safe herbal remedies that, furthermore, bear the stamp of approval from their  female ancestors… Many anxious pregnant women are seeking low-impact, non-narcotic, nonaddictive health remedies  that are unlikely to harm them or their babies; these includes herbs and botanicals. Still, not all herbs have been thoroughly tested on pregnant women or their babies, so I always check with your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements.

Note: Some herbs may interact with medications, so always check with your doctor before taking any natural remedies… Because Some herbal remedies in combination with prescription sedatives, can be counteractive and thereby be non-effective…

There was a time when anxiety was a lifesaver, when primitive humans needed lightning-fast responses to approaching danger. Today, anxiety disorders can indeed be crippling, engendering fear and dread and bringing on panic attacks, phobias, and paranoia that are extremely and in some cases so hard that  it can keep sufferers housebound! Anxiety is not a new ailment, so there is a range of effective natural treatments, or, calmatives, that have been relied upon for thousands of years.  Here are some natural remedies just to name a few!  Green tea: Make this your new morning beverage. It offers the boost of caffeine, but it also contains L-theanin, which work synergistically with caffeine to elevate your mood minus the crashing affects afterwards! Chamomile Tea: This is the ideal herbal tea for later in the day. Emotional distress can often cause insomnia, and chamomile contains a flavonoid with relaxing properties. Saint-John’s-Wort: Since the days of ancient Greece, this ...

Herbal Tonics: Over Time, natural healers recognized certain herbs and botanicals were able to increase focus, sharpen mental skills, and enhance memory, even into old age. Many of these remedies and herbs have held up under lab scrutiny of their healing properties and some may even become valuable allies in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease!  Ginkgo Biloba: This is perhaps the best-known herbal memory booster and possibly one of the oldest… Ginseng: This well-regarded herb increases vitality and improves mental function… Rosemary: When inhaled as an essential oil in aromatherapy, this pungent kitchen favorite becomes a powerful brain booster!

Did you know? That drinking a glass of milk before bed; contains “Tryptophan” an amino acid in the brain that causes sleepiness! It is true that insomnia has been impacting humans for thousands of years, so there are numerous time tested-herbal solutions. These herbs are far safer options for inducing sleep than medications that can be addictive or cause episodes of sleepwalking!

Weight loss is not just about reducing your food intake or focusing on healthier choices. You need to increase your Metabolism and rate of digestion so that you can burn more calories – and shed more fat. Exercise is one way to do this, but there are also many herbal options. The herbs and spices listed below are especially effective if you have hit that proverbial wall and are not losing any weight while continuing to stick to your diet. 1) Ginseng: This powerful metabolism booster can keep your energy levels high. 2) Hibiscus: This vivid red tea helps to rid the body of excess water. 3) Yerba Mate: This traditional South American beverage is made from the aged and dried yerba mate plant. It’s phytonutrients elevate energy levels, suppress appetite, boost mood, and aid in weight loss by inhibiting the enzymes that metabolize fat and slowing the emptying of the stomach. 4) Goji Berries: These tasty fruits make an ideal snack! And are a part of the weight loss program.

This emollient mixture of aromatic oil will soften and heal damaged cuticles. Combine 1 tablespoon of a jojoba oil and 1 tablespoon of avocado oil with 10 drops of Tea tree oil and 10 drops of lavender oil in a dark glass jar and Shake well. Massage a few drops into the cuticles of the fingers and toes every few days…

You can use conditioners and oil treatments to beautify your hair and nails, but the true secret to healthy keratin is what happens on the inside. Herbs and supplements, used inside and out, will help you look polished from your head to your fingertips.

Did you know? That you can treat mosquito bites with an application of aloe gel, or apple cider vinegar, baking soda paste, raw honey, or even a hot compress of black tea!  Just a little  something to think about!

It really can be a jungle out there, especially during the times of the year-notably spring and summer-when biting, stinking insects and toxic plants abound. Keep your eyes open and keep a supply of natural remedies at the ready!

Did you know? That you can treat skin eruptions with aloe vera, witch hazel, or apple cider vinegar; apply a warm chamomile or black tea compress to itchy outbreaks; press on fresh basil leaves or peppermint leaves, or make a turmeric poultice to reduce inflammation. Use red clover to calm eczema flare-ups. Treat acne with tea tree oil, sweet basil tea, olive oil, and hemp, safflower, or rose hip oil.

Did you know? That tooth decay most often occurs when carbohydrates left on the teeth overnight and mixes with our mouth’s bacteria, acids, and saliva, and form a sticky substations called plaque that eats into tooth enamel. The results are damaged, unstable teeth and pain when the decay enters the tender pulp. Although children are more cavity prone than adults, decay can occur at any time, especially if a tooth is cracked or if fillings are loose!

Herbal Mouthwash: Cloves make a refreshing antibacterial mouthwash. Combine a cup of boiling water with 1 tablespoon of whole cloves in a glass canning jar, then strain when cooled. Use one teaspoon as a gargle twice a day. It will keep for up to a week. Cold rosemary tea also makes an antibacterial gargle.

Did you know? That few things intrude on a persons day like the throbbing, deep-seated pain of a bad headache. Migraine sufferers often have to take to darkened bedrooms until their misery subsides. Happily, a bounty of pain-suppressing herbs and botanicals can help! For example did you know that based on a recent study, inhaling lavender oil for 15 minutes for example can reduce the intensity of migraines? Also peppermint or lavender oil applied to the forehead provides a cooling sensation and bring blood flow to the area as well as reduce muscle contractions.

Back pain is one of the major causes of workplace absenteeism, costing  in the United States $100 billion in loss of income and productivity. In addition to exercise, herbal treatments can ease suffering by reducing pain and swelling! An example of a helpful Herb 🌿 is turmeric. Turmeric is a popular curative in India: add a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of hot milk and drink twice daily. The compound curcumin found in the spice is both an anti-inflammatory and a pain reliever…

Did you know? Joints are the junctions where bones – and their supporting structures – meet, and as such they are vulnerable to overextending and twisting injuries. A number of natural remedies have a long tradition of treating joint problems! Healthy Solutions: The following herbal remedies can help you decrease swelling and ease the pain of strains, sprains, tendon inflammation, and bursitis just to name a few! Olive oil: Massage the oil into the affected area for 10 minutes twice a day. It has both pain – relieving an anti-– inflammatory effects. Sage: this powerful herb has a number of healing properties. Make a healing rub by crushing a handful of Sage leaves in your hands and then simmering them with apple cider for 10 minutes. Soak a cloth in the mixture and apply it to the inflamed area. White Willow Tea: This pain treatment dates back to the ancient Greeks. The plant’s salicin converts to salicylic acid, similar to the active ingredient of aspirin. Combine 2 teaspoons of powde...

Did you know? That These inflamed, bony bumps, called hallux Vargas form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They occur when the big toe pushes against the next toe, forcing the big toe’s joint to expand. Bunions are possibly genetic or may be caused by arthritis or tight, pointy shoes. If the little toe is affected it is called a bunionette or tailor’s bunion.

Did you know? That as species who walk upright, humans put a lot of pressure on their feet. Overpronation-rolling the foot to one side-can lead to hammer toes, arch pain, arthritis, and achilles tendonitis. Keeping feet confined in sweaty, narrow shoes, especially those with high heels, result in bunions, calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. Those high heels are why women experience four times as many foot issues as men!

Did you know? That when this butterfly- shaped gland called your thyroid, overproduces hormones, it a condition called hyperthyroidism, its when people become sluggish, fatigue, and depressed. Hypothyroidism or overproduction, result in anxiety, sweating, insomnia, and weight issues. A benign growth on the gland is called a goiter and can result in either of the above conditions.

Did you know? That when carbohydrates in the body are not metabolized properly due to an impaired response to the hormone insulin, glucose levels in blood and urine can elevate dangerously. This condition is known as diabetes. Type 1 diabetes begins in childhood; it is quite serious and requires injection of insulin. Type 2 occurs as people age; it can be treated with pills and dietary alterations, as well as herbal remedies that help stabilize glucose levels in the body.

Did you know? That green tea, with it’s many antioxidants and flavonoids, is another go-to for its ability to strengthen the lining of the heart and blood vessels, while bathing triglycerides and bad cholesterol.

The hard-working heart muscle drives a cardiovascular system, which makes  sure oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and cellular waste products reach the proper parts of the body. The system can be affected by circulatory issues-among them hardening of the arteries, high blood cholesterol, blood pressure problems, or stroke, as well as blood diseases and heart conditions, such as coronary disease, which imperils the heart’s arteries and is the top killer of adult men and women in the United States. Preventative measures are always preferred to surgical solutions, and botanicals offer many properties that can heal, strengthen, and maintain the cardiovascular Network. Herbs and spices can offer many forms of assistance to the circulatory system, from lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar, to thinning the blood and steadying heartbeat, to avoid strokes, to acting as a healing tonic for the heart itself.

Did you know? For centuries, many women’s legitimate reproductive concerns were chalked up to “hysteria” by the medical professions. Today, women control their own health decisions, and many of them choose natural or herbal options.

The lower gastrointestinal track is prone to a number of problems-constipation, diarrhea and painful bloating-that can put a cramp in your day. But don’t feel disheartened, as these can be easily treated with Herbals, Essential Oils and with other Natural Remedies of which includes Healing Tonics.

Herbal Assists : Antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory chamomile tea eliminates gas and bloating; ginger aids digestion, eases intestinal muscles, and relieves gas. Coriander’s digestive properties can settle the stomach; for a soothing tea, add a teaspoon of dried coriander leaves to a cup of hot water. Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory and antibiotic that can turn off the fire of heartburn. Peppermint contains anti-spasmodic menthol oil that calms the tummy and reduces spasms.

Did you know? That treatments to relieve kidney stones can include: dandelion extracts, pomegranate or aloe juice, including such things as chamomile or peppermint teas!

Did you know? That this small “teapot”  allows you to pour warm water up one nostril until it fills your nasal passages and drains out the other nostril. Although it sounds painful, the concept of flushing the sinuses is a painless part of traditional yoga. The practice can noticeably improve chronic sinus suffers, those with severe allergies, and people recovering from a cold. It’s best to use distilled water or boiled water warmed to a comfortable temperature.

If you fear a cold looming, it’s wise to take herbal and vitamin supplements to boost your immune system and shorten the cold’s duration. These can include versatile nettle leaf, time-tested herbs such as echinacea and ginseng, decongestant ginger, nutritionally essential zinc, antioxidant vitamin C, immunity boosting vitamins A and D, crushed raw garlic, antibacterial and antiviral oil of oregano, virus battling circumin, bee-produce propolis, and fever-reducing white willow bark…

As the world around us speeds up and many stressors at home and work increases, sleep may begin to elude us. Insomnia, the inability to find restful sleep, is an ancient malady but one with many natural treatments!

 Did you know? That you can keep mosquitoes and most flying insects away by applying oil of citronellas or lemon balm, catnip, marigold, basil, or even lavender to the skin!

It can really be a jungle out there! Yes, it can be a jungle out there especially, during the times of the year-notably spring and summer-when biting, stinging insects and toxic plants abound. Keep your eyes open and keep a supply of natural remedies at the ready.

Among the conditions that target the skin are disfiguring diseases, inflammation, burns, 🥵 rashes, and bacterial, viral, and fungal invaders. Neglecting skin problems can have systematic, and cosmetic – consequences, so speedily treatment is essential!

For example: Who has not suffered through a bad cold or cough? Or been laid low with a bout of the flu? Respiratory issues should not be taken lightly, so be sure to treat them at the first sign of a sniffle.  Many herbal remedies for colds, coughs, sore throats and other body ailments goes back thousands of years. This does not mean they are less effective than modern medications to help with your body’s system of ailments, for example, many herbals 🌿  were the source for over-the-counter aids such as horehound cough drops and mentholated rubs.

  Superfood: any food that offers high levels of vitamins, minerals, and Fido chemicals. Most fruits, vegetables, in herbs fit in this definition. Organic : Produce grown without manmade pesticides, fertilizers, or GMO‘s, and livestock raise without unnecessary chemicals, medications, feed alternatives, or growth hormones. Probiotic:  The term indicates that a food replenishes the natural healthy fauna in the gut. Fermentation:   When The sugar in a food or beverage has been broken down by the presence of yeast or bacteria. Gluten Free:  Foods that contain no gluten, a mixture of proteins found in wheat 🌾  and some other grains. Gluten-free Foods include rice, cassava, soy, corn, potatoes, beans, spelt, buckwheat, sourghum, tapioca and amaranth.

 Unlike the clerks in most other stores, health-food store managers understand that part of their job is guiding newbies through the sometimes – confusing world of herbal supplements and alternative medicines. They will not only help you choose a remedy for an existing ailment, they can show you an array of herbs that boost immunity and help keep diseases at bay. These stores also carry organic foods, local produce, environmentally conscious products, and special-needs diet items, and should have a stock of essential oils, distilled from herbs and other botanicals, that can be used medicinally, as aromatherapy, or simply as enlivening scents. Other avenues that you can try for herbs and essential oil selections would be Asian groceries and specialty shops!

 Most of us have discovered this method by accident. We collected a bunch of herbs, put them on a table or counter, then forget they were there for a week or two. We ended up with nicely dried herbs, unless they got moldy or were nibbled on by mice. Still this method does work if you’re willing to except less-then-stellar results. Another easy trick is leaving herbs outside their packaging in a refrigerator; they will often end up crisp, colorful, and flavorful!

 The simplest solution for preserving herbs is copying what humans have done for millennia: hanging them up to dry. Tie your  herbs 🌿  into small bundles using twist ties so you can tighten them as a stem shrink. Place muslin or a mesh or brown bag with a few holes in it around the bundle and fastened it at the top. Any warm dry place that is not your kitchen should work as a location. Once the herbs are properly dried – they’re brittle to the touch and crumble easily – it’s time to store them in sealed glass containers. You may be inclined to grind them all first, but in tact herbs maintain their character far longer than ground ones!

 Most people who grow herbs find some occasion to dry them, and there are a number of techniques that works well. Your ultimate goal is for the herb to dry out without any trace of moisture, mold, or mildew. You also want to maximize flavor retention. Most dried herbs gain potency while a few others lose it. You will also discover that “fresh” dried herbs beat out their packaged, store-bought cousins in terms of taste, intensity, and aroma.

 Did you know? The American Academy of pediatrics advise against giving herbs to babies under six months? Some gentle herbs that should be safe to administer are chamomile and mint. But I always check for adverse reactions when first offering anything new. Also babies under two should never be fed honey, which can contain Botulism.

 This sixteenth-Century New World discovery was soon delighting the courts of Europe and has never stop pleasing desert lovers. The tropical vanilla orchid vine bears oval green leaves and waxy, delicate, greenish-yellow flowers; these mature into narrow six-inch pod-like fruit with small black seeds. The word vanilla comes from the Spanish vainilla, meaning “little pod.” In pre-Dash Colombian Mexico, it was used to treat indigestion and tension. Today, the flavor compound vanilla is known to reduce cholesterol levels, preventing hardening of the arteries and the  formation of blood clots. Its high levels of antioxidants can heal damage cells, protect the immune system, and diminish the damaging affects of free radicals.

 Turmeric epitomizes The flowers of the Middle East and India – it gives curry its distinct color and taste - while providing value medicinal benefits. Native to southern Asia, the plant can reach 4 feet in height and produces large, oval, upright leaves on sturdy stems and spikes of pale pink or white flowers. The spice is processed from the yellow root. For more than 4,500 years, natural healers have relied on the spice to reduce inflammation, fight infections, and ease digestion. It contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that purge is free radicals. There are indications that curcumin can inhibit certain cancers and may prevent subsequent heart attacks in bypass surgery patients. 

 This warm, sweet kitchen favorite is harvested from the bark of two evergreen trees: Ceylon cinnamon, or true cinnamon, and cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Early medicinal use dates back to at least 2000 BC. The spice is rich in antioxidant and effective for treating muscle spasms, vomiting, diarrhea, colds, infections, loss of appetite, and erectile dysfunction. Research indicates the spice may also lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, improve glucose and lipid levels, treat bacterial and fungal infections, slow the development of Alzheimer’s disease, combat HIV-1 and HIV-2, and help stop the destructive onslaught of multiple sclerosis. 

 Once valued by Ayurvedic and Asian physicians, celery seed was also part of early Mediterranean and medieval European folk medicine.  The vegetable is native to Southern Europe, displaying sturdy fleshy stems, wide segmented leaves, and airy umbels of white flowers. The aromatic oval seeds are used to improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and treat arthritis and liver ailments, colds, flu, toothache, backache, and indigestion.

 This fiery gift to Europe from Central America has a long list of health benefits. Cayenne peppers can be red, green, or yellow and are the fruit of the chili plant, a small perennial shrub with off-white or purplish flowers. First grown around 5000 BC they are among the oldest cultivated plants. Indigenous people use Cayenne to treat heartburn, fever, sore throat, paralysis, hemorrhoids, and Nausea. The capsaicin in cayenne eases aches by depleteing the pain-causing neurotransmitters in nerve endings. In studies, capsaicin also reduce heart arrhythmias, stimulated blood flow, and inhibited the growth of prostate cancer cells, and it’s beneficial compounds which suppress more than 16 fungal strains. Alternate names include cow-horn peppers, red hot chili peppers, bird pepper, and Guinea pepper. The common name is taken from Cayenne, the capital city of French Guiana.

 This “king of spices” was once used as a form of money and was presented to the gods during religious rituals. Black pepper originated in Kerala, India, and is a woody vine that produces clusters of small white flowers, which form small red berries  known as peppercorns. The spice was once applied medicinally against scourges such as scarlet fever, smallpox, and cholera, but today it is used to stimulate circulation, ease respiratory ailments, treat joints or muscle pain, increase metabolism, and improve immunity.