Learning how to use herbs

[Taz Baby]

Herbal Liniments



Simple to make, herbal liniments are a great element for any home medicine cabinet! They offer instant relief for pain, inflamed muscles, bruises, and sprains.

Depending on which botanicals are included, liniments can be used to disinfect cuts and wounds, and may benefit a variety of conditions including sore and inflamed muscles, joints, circulation problems, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, strains, and bruises.

Liniments may also be formulated to warm or cool. Warming herbs like Black Pepper, Cayenne, or Ginger can be added to stimulate blood circulation and assist with arthritis, pain, stiffness, and conditions aggravated by exertion or cold weather. Cooling herbs like Peppermint or Menthol crystals are useful for swelling, inflammation, and areas that are hot due to sprains, bruises, and other injuries.

http://mountainroseblog.com/making-herbal-liniments/

[Taz Baby]

How to Make Medicinal Vinegar



Did you know that vinegar can be infused with medicinal herbs to create wonderful alcohol-free extracts? While not as potent as alcohol based tinctures, an herbal vinegar extract is a strong alternative for children, anyone abstaining from alcohol, or those with alcohol sensitivities.

Vinegar has been used for thousands of years to preserve food, disinfect surfaces, deodorize, and to make medicinal formulas. In fact, before stills were used to produce high proof alcohol, most herbal extracts were made with solvents like water, wine, and vinegar. The original Four Thieves formula used to protect robbers against infection during the plague is thought to have been made with vinegar as the base.

http://mountainroseblog.com/medicinal-vinegars/

[Taz Baby]

This last along time. This is easy to make and you can keep some in the bathrooms and in the kitchen.

[IMG]http://thehomesteadsurvival.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Project01.jpg[/IMG


5 drops Lemon Essential Oil
10 drops Tea Tree Oil Essential Oil
5 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
2 ounces Filtered Water
Add filtered water into a clean empty spray bottle.
Then add each essential oil in the amounts listed above and put top back on securely.
Shake for 30 seconds before spraying on cuts and scrapes.

.

- - - Updated - - -

Sometimes when I need an oil for a recipe and I don't have time to make it or order it, I get them from Hobby Lobby, they are $6.99 each for 1/2 oz.

[Taz Baby]

Make Your Own “Soothing Roots Balm” for Headache Relief






Ingredients: Peppermint Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Lavender Oil, Beeswax, Shea Nut Oil, Grapeseed Oil.

Why peppermint oil: Peppermint contains menthol, and menthol produces a cooling sensation on the skin which, helps relieve tension and resulting tension headaches.

Why eucalyptus oil: Fresh and invigorating, eucalyptus soothes without making you sleepy. Studies have shown the scent increases brainwave activity, reducing fatigue. Rubbed on muscles, it helps relieve tension and soreness.

Why lavender oil: Lavender is also a wonderfully soothing scent, being used in a number of studies testing the benefits of aromatherapy. Changes in brain wave patterns for people exposed to the scent suggested increased relaxation and a resulting loss of tension in muscles.

Why beeswax/Shea nut oil/grapeseed oil: All of these ingredients are what give the balm its body, and dilute the essential oils. Good and nourishing for the skin, they are easier to obtain than their names suggest! (Grapeseed oil can be found at your local grocery store.)

You will need…
-15-20 drops of peppermint oil
-10 drops of lavender oil
-2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil
-1/4 cup Shea nut oil
-1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
-2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles/grated beeswax

Directions

Making your roots balm is easy, and takes around 20 minutes from start to finish. In a double boiler over medium heat melt ¼ cup of Shea nut oil, 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil, and 2 tablespoons of beeswax pastilles or grated beeswax together.
Turn off the heat when thoroughly blended, and add 20 drops of peppermint oil, 10 drops of lavender oil, and 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil. Pour into a small container with a tightly fitting lid, and let cool and solidify.

Massage a bit onto your temples, back of neck, the pressure point between the thumb and forefinger, or anywhere that needs some soothing when you feel tense or a headache coming on. Breathe deeply.
Note: Adding more wax yields a more solid balm, whereas adding more oil yields a softer one. You can also infuse your oil to give your balm an extra boost.

[Taz Baby]

Migraine Tincture ~ A Recipe



Supplies needed
-
Solvent (i.e. 100 proof
alcohol or vegetable glycerin)
-
quart sized glass jar
-
4 oz. fresh or 2 oz. of dried herbs
Ingredients
-
3 parts lemon balm
-
2 parts feverfew
-
100 proof vodka to fill (approximately 16 ounces)
Method
1.Measure your herbs depending on whether you are using fresh or dried herbs.
2.If using fresh herbs, chop until fine.
3.Add herbs to glass jar.
4.Pour solvent over herbs to fill the jar. The solvent should rise 1-2 inches above the herbs.
5.Place the lid on the jar and shake until the herbs are well combined.
6.Label jar with contents and date.
7.Set in a warm, sunny window and steep for 2-6 weeks, shaking daily.
8.Strain with a cheesecloth, compost the plant material, and place tincture in dark colored
bottles for storage in a cool, dark place. The tincture should keep for up to 5 years.

Adult Dosage

At the sudden onset of migraine symptoms, begin taking ¼-1/2 a teaspoon of the tincture every
30 minutes to an hour until symptoms subside.

Disclaimer: Please understand that this information is for educational purposes only.
The statements made herehave not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent any disease. Don’t take my word for it...you must engage conventional wisdom and
consult with your medical professional to determine potential drug interactions and safety of use.

[Taz Baby]

I have never had a cold sore but I know people who have and they swear by this, that it really does work.



Home cure: Lemon balm tea



Use it for: Cold sores

Lemon balm is a first-choice herbal treatment for cold sores, which are caused by a type of herpes virus (not the same kind that's sexually transmitted). It has antiviral properties that work to tame herpes outbreaks, says James Duke, PhD, author of The Green Pharmacy. Prepare lemon balm tea by brewing 2 to 4 tablespoons of the herb per cup of boiling water. Let it cool, then dot with a cotton ball on the cold sore several times a day.

Read more: http://www.prevention.com/mind-body/...#ixzz2Xc4g3mIy

[Taz Baby]

Antibacterial Herbs
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula can be used in first-aid to heal wounds, prevent infection and treat pink eye. Calendula can be prepared a few different ways, including infusions, tinctures, lotions and ointments. No known precautions.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamon warms the body, aids in digestion and is used for its antibacterial properties. Cinnamon can be taken as a tea, added to food or the essential oil can be used. When using cinnamon essential oil, remember to use a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Though clove is typically used as a topical analgesic, clove-infused oil can also be used to kill bad intestinal bacteria. For internal use, use in cooking or make a cup of clove tea. If using topically, always dilute in a carrier oil.
Garlic (Allium sativum)

As an antibacterial herb, garlic is more effective against several types of bacteria than penicillin. Garlic is also friendlier to the body than antibiotics because it attacks the offending bacteria without wiping out the body's normal flora. Garlic can be used as a tincture, capsule, infused in oil or simply added to your diet. (If cooking with garlic, avoid heating past 130 degrees as that will decrease its potency.)
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia)

Taken at the onset of an infection, echinacea can speed the healing process. Echinacea is most effective when taken as a tincture over a long period of time. Do not use echinacea if you have an auto-immune disease.
Oregon Grape Root (Mahonia aquifolium)

Oregon grape root is a potent antibacterial herb, especially when combined with echinacea. Do not take if pregnant, breastfeeding or if you have a history of diabetes, stroke, hypertension or glaucoma. Take as a tincture, but not for long-term treatment as it can decrease Vitamin B absorption.
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis L.)

In addition to pain-easing properties, marshmallow root soothes, lubricates, softens and heals. Marshmallow root also contains tannins found effective against bacteria found in urinary tract infections. Marshmallow root can be taken internally as a tea.
Usnea (Usnea barbata)

This common lichen is antibacterial and antifungal. A powerful antibiotic, usnea is used to treat urinary tract infections, strep and staph infections, respiratory and sinus infections as well as fungal infections like yeast and vaginosis. Usnea is best used as a tincture. No known precautions, but consult an herbalist before using in pregnancy.
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Uva Ursi is often used as a tincture or capsule for treating urinary tract infections as it contains compounds effective at killing pathogens typically associated with UTIs. Because of its strength, it should not be used continually for longer than 2 weeks. Not for use by children, pregnant or nursing women or those with kidney disease.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Tiny yarrow flowers have a number of different uses. As a powder, they stop bleeding quickly. Infused in water, it speeds the healing of canker sores. As a tea, yarrow is used to fight urinary tract infections. Because it can cause uterine contractions, avoid during pregnancy.
So fresh that smiles are guaranteed
Antiviral Herbs
Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)

Astragalus is one of the antiviral herbs that works by boosting the immune system. Taken internally, either as a capsule, tincture or buy adding it to soup, astragalus root is known to increase your body's defense against viruses. Astragalus root is best used as prevention, so take it during flu season or before going places with large crowds of people. Avoid if you already have a fever.
Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

In addition to being an antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral herb, cat's claw is also known for boosting the immune system, increasing your body's protection against illness. Cat's claw can be taken as a tea, tincture or capsule. Do not take during pregnancy.
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

Cranberry is a potent defense against urinary tract infections due to its ability to make the bladder lining too "slippery" to adhere to. Full of antioxidants, cranberry also has antiviral properties and prevents plaque formation on teeth. Cranberry can be taken in a capsule or as juice (make sure it is unsweetened).
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberry is used as a remedy for viral infections like the flu and common cold. Elder stimulates the circulation, causing sweating, effectively cleansing the body. Elderberry syrup is the common delivery method and 1-3 tablespoons can be taken per day during infection. Leaves, roots, seeds, and berries of the raw plant contain cyanide-producing compounds and should not be consumed without cooking properly.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger is another herb known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is used to prevent and decrease duration of the common cold. Ginger can be taken as a tea, in capsule form or added to meals.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

An important volatile oil found in lemon balm contains antiviral properties. Lemon balm leaf makes a tasty tea that can also relieve upset stomach and promote calm. May be unsafe to consume during pregnancy.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice is antiviral and antibacterial. It is commonly used for gastric ulcers as it kills H. pylori that causes ulcers without upsetting the stomach. Steep these antiviral herbs as a tea and drink by itself or blended with other herbal teas. Avoid during pregnancy.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein-infused oil is a great remedy for ear problems, including ear infection, especially when combined with garlic. Use the mullein flowers to create an infused oil.
Olive Leaf (Olea europaea)

As antiviral herbs, olive leaf is used to treat the flu, common cold and herpes. Olive leaf can be taken as a tincture, capsule or tea mixed with mint. Avoid during pregnancy.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

In addition to adding great flavor to food, oregano also fights viruses and bacteria as one of the best antiviral herbs available. During an infection, oregano essential oil (high quality only) can be taken in a capsule to speed healing. If using oregano essential oil topically, use a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.
How to Use Antibacterial and Antiviral Herbs
Tea

Herbal teas are simple to make and require only a cup, hot water and a way to steep your tea. To make an herbal tea, steep 1 tbsp of antibacterial or antiviral herbs in 1 cup hot water for 5-10 minutes. For children, use 1 tsp herbs in the same amount of water.
Infusion

Herbal infusions are simply antibacterial or antiviral herbs prepared in water. They differ from teas in that they use larger quantities of herbs, making a more concentrated preparation. They are steeped in water for several hours in a tightly sealed jar. Using a quart-size canning jar is best because they can hold up well to boiling water.

Once prepared you can drink them iced or heated, add them to baths for soaking wounds or sore muscles or used to make compresses or poultices.

Put a handful of dried herbs in your canning jar. Fill the jar to the fill line with boiling water. Secure the lid tightly and let it steep until the water has completely cooled. Strain out the antibacterial or antiviral herbs and enjoy.
Infused oil

Creating your own infused oil is easy! You can do it with just a few minutes of prep time (the rest is done in the oven).

You'll need:

An oven-proof dish
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
1 cup jojoba or coconut oil
1/2 cup antibacterial or antiviral herbs (one herb or a combination)
Clean, dry jar(s) to store your oil in
Labels

Heat your oven to 200 degrees, then turn it off. To your oven-proof dish, add the oil and herbs, then stir them together. (If the coconut oil is solid, let it melt first in the oven, add the herbs and stir). Put the dish in the oven. After 3 hours take out the herbs and strain the oil into your clean jar(s). Label and store in a cool, dark place.

[Taz Baby]

Things To Do With Calendula a free PDF e-book


Calendula, or pot marigold, is one of the easiest to grow herbs and
useful in so many ways!
If you'd like to grow your own, a good place to buy seed is Baker Creek Heirloom(rareseeds.com.)
Your local garden center may have some as well. Calendula is not the same as your common garden marigold, so make sure you are buying Calendula Officinalis.
Once established in your garden, calendula will often reseed itself
and come back year after year, offering up an abundance of blooms
over a long growing season.
It repels tomato hornworms, asparagus beetles, and aphids which
makes it an exceptional companion plant in your vegetable garden.
Its flowers are anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and
particularly suited for soothing a variety of skin complaints. Because
of its gentle, but effective, action, calendula is an important
component in your herbal medicine chest

http://thenerdyfarmwife.com/wp-conte...-Calendula.pdf

[Taz Baby]

I keep a jelly jar of this in the bathroom along with little jars in every thing we ride in, even on the tractor.



First-Aid Antiseptic Ointment
Ingredients
-1 1/2 ounces beeswax, grated
-1 cup olive, almond, or coconut oil
-1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil
-1/2 teaspoon tea tree oil
-20 drops lavender essential oil
-10 drops lemon essential oil
Directions
Over very low heat, in a small pot or double boiler, melt oils and beeswax.
Remove from heat and add vitamin E oil and essential oils. Stir with a chopstick.
Pour mixture into small sterilized jars (or a mason jar). Allow to cool on counter.
Store in a cool, dark place. Use as needed on wounds. Will keep for approximately 5 years.
Notes
-Antiseptic properties of the essential oils include:
Tea tree oil: antibiotic, anti-fungal, antiviral, antibacterial
Lavender: analgesic (pain relief), antibiotic, anti-fungal, antiviral, antibacterial
Lemon: antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial



http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/...ptic-ointment/