This ultimate guide has been in the back of my mind years. This was first published in 2009 as a small book to keep in the medicine cabinet. Now, I've decided to make it public for everyone to utilize and treasure.
I personally practice herbal medicine for myself and my family. I've been lucky to introduce herbal remedies to hundreds of others through my classes. I strive to provide the best remedies that are effective, timely, and convenient to us.
It has happened in more than one instance, when in a hurried panic to stop slight bleeding, relieve a headache, or help a bruise heal more quickly, I somehow forget all my natural sense! The remedies I spent so much time researching and practicing, when in a rush, escape my mind.
I knew that because of this, I would eventually put together this ultimate list to serve my own needs, and here it is. Perhaps you will find it as indispensable as I. Remember to save it on your favorites and share it so you can find it easily when you need to remember how to handle minor daily issues with natural care.
Perhaps you will find these ideas, suggestions, and tidbits as vital as I do.
I’m not by any means a doctor or qualified to give medical advice. I do believe that a person’s health and healing is a spiritual journey as much as a physical one. This ultimate list is to be considered for educational purposes only.
Hippocrates once said, “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.”
Below I have organized a shopping list of what I feel are the most important ingredients to always have on hand. This is merely a suggestion and you should make the decisions for you and your family’s needs.
Remember to always consult your doctor when treating any medical issue.
You will notice that some of these things you will probably already have in your kitchen cabinets and if you don’t have it I list my favorite resource and brand in parenthesis behind it.
Most Important
Apple Cider Vinegar (I like this one.)
Chamomile Tea (I’m never without this brand.)
Powered Licorice Root (My favorite.)
Vitamin C Rich Foods
Honey (My preference.)
Essential Oil of Lavender (My favorite)
Aloe gel or plant
Vitamin E (What I use.)
Witch Hazel Water (My preferred brand.)
Rescue Remedy Cream (I’m never without this.)
Rescue Remedy Drops (I’m never without this, either.)
Lemons
Olive Oil
Epsom Salts (My favorite.)
Colloidal Silver (My preferred brand.)
Garlic
Cayenne
Ginger
Lemon Balm Dried Herb (What I prefer to use.)
Omega 3’s
Cinnamon
California Poppy (My preferred brand.)
*Constipation is a leading cause of acne.
*Wet a cotton ball with apple cider vinegar and apply directly to problem area. Repeat twice daily until cleared.
*Drink 8 glasses of water daily with a lemon wedge gently squeezed in each glass.
*Apply aloe vera gel or plant directly to problem area.
ACNE MASK RECIPE
Ingredients:
½ Cup Whole Milk Yogurt
1 Tablespoon Honey
1 ½ - 5 Tablespoons Ground Oatmeal
Grind oatmeal in a coffee grinder or grain mill and set aside. Mix together yogurt and honey thoroughly, then add preferable amount of oatmeal to make a paste.
Apply and let sit.
Rinse with warm water.
2. ALLERGY
*Eat Vitamin C rich foods.
*Nettle is a good herb for allergies. Use an herbal tea with nettle or can be taken in capsules.
*Angelica is an herbal antihistamine and is good to use in teas.
*Licorice Root is an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial. It is an excellent addition to any tea.
*Eat foods rich in sulfur.
NETTLE TEA RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 ounce of dried nettle leaf
1 pint of boiling water
Boil water over stove (not microwave). After water comes to a rapid boil, remove from heat and add nettles. Let sit, covered, for 15 minutes.
Other herbs and natural sweeteners may be added to taste.
3. ARTHRITIS PAIN
*Rub joints with warm olive oil.
*Relieve constipation and follow toxin removal tips below
*Soak in a bath with Epsom salts.
*Take an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
*Boswellia is a good herb to add for relief of symptoms.
*Eat Nettle Soup.
NETTLE SOUP
Ingredients:
Olive oil or butter for sautéing
Onion
3-6 cloves of Garlic
3 potatoes
3 stalks of celery
Stock or water
Nettles
Sauté onion, garlic, potatoes and celery in olive oil or preferred fat.
Add water or stock until pot is half full. Once soup mixture is simmering, add as many nettles as you like. (I stuff my pot full!)
Let simmer until potatoes are done and serve!
*TIP: You can add some coconut cream and blend the mixture with an immersion blender for a creamy nettle soup! Add some vegan cheese and you have a kid loving, healthy soup!
4. BLADDER INFECTION (UTI)
Please seek medical attention as a continuing bacterial infection can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys. These methods are for prevention!
*Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily with a gently squeezed lemon in each glass to balance pH.
*Avoid sugary, soda, and alcoholic beverages.
*Uva Ursi is an herb that is antibacterial. Supplements are available in health food stores or online.
SOME UTI CAUSES
Urinary Tract Infections can have a bunch of different causes. Scan the most frequent causes to see if you can prevent any further discomfort!
Dehydration is a common and misdiagnosed cause of urinary tract infections!
Bacteria that live in the bowels and near the vaginal openings when spread can enter the urethra and cause infection. Make sure to wipe front to back and teach young children how to properly care for themselves.
Sexual intercourse is another common cause of infection. Urinating before and after intercourse can sometimes prevent an infection.
Pregnancy, diabetes, and menopause are also contributors to frequent UTIs.
5. BLEEDING, STOPPING
If bleeding is severe, please seek medical attention ASAP. These methods are for minor injuries only.
*Cayenne applied directly to a small wound will stop bleeding almost immediately. (It will not burn!)
*Yarrow is a good herb that you may apply directly to the wound. Native tribes use yarrow for many reasons, this being a major one.
*To read about cleaning and helping a wound heal, please see below.
IN AN EMERGENCY
CALL 911!
While ambulance is on its way you can CONTROL the bleeding by:
6. BLOATING
*Chamomile tea is an excellent source to relieve bloating. Brew according to directions.
*Wormwood and mugwort are herbs that can also relieve uncomfortable bloating. They can be added to teas or taken as capsules.
*Tarragon, a common kitchen herb will also relieve bloating.
ANTI BLOATING FOODS
Look in your refrigerator for a few foods that have been known to help relieve bloating and stimulate digestion:
Fresh Pineapple
Fresh Papaya
Yogurt
Black Pepper
Celery
Peppermint Tea
Chamomile Tea
Asparagus
6. BRUISES
*A sliced up raw potato applied directly to the bruise will help heal the bruise within days.
*Fresh parsley chopped up finely, mixed with a little bit of olive oil to make a paste will heal a bruise quickly when applied directly and then covered with cotton gauze (not tightly).
*Dab witch hazel water to the bruise 3-5 times per day with a cotton swab.
Did you know that some medications can prevent your blood from clotting therefore causing bruises to appear?
Antidepressants
Aspirin
Anesthetics
Cortisone
Penicillin
While taking these medications, you may be more likely and susceptible to bruising.
7. BURNS
These remedies are for minor burns only. If you are unsure if your burn is minor, please seek medical attention.
*Apply cool water immediately to stop the residual burning effect.
*Apply aloe vera gel or plant to the burn directly.
*Break open a capsule of Vitamin E and apply directly to the burn.
*Apply raw honey to the burn and wrap loosely with cotton gauze.
*Apply witch hazel water with a cotton ball 3-5 times per day as needed.
*Ground mustard applied directly to the burn will relieve pain and help heal the burn more quickly.
Sunburn
*Take an apple cider vinegar bath.
*Yogurt has a cooling and healing affect for sunburns.
*Lavender essential oil is the only oil that can be applied directly to
the skin without irritation.
*Aloe vera gel or plant gel may be applied directly to the burn.
*Sunburn relief recipe listed here.
8. CANKER SORES
*Gotu Kola is an excellent herb to treat canker sores. Add 1 ounce to tea.
*Chamomile tea may be enjoyed as a drink and as a mouthwash.
*Licorice Root Powder applied directly to the canker sore will relieve irritation and help heal fast.
*Aloe Gel may be used to brush and soothe the canker sore.
Did you know that most regular toothpastes can cause canker sores?
The foaming agent, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), has been linked to canker sores in those who are sensitive to this ingredient.
Some toothpastes are SLS free:
Breath RX Products
Tom’s of Maine
TheraBreath Products
Oxyfresh
Nutritional deficiency can also be a source of canker sores.
Consider a vitamin supplement like Thiamin (vitamin B1), as deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of canker sores. Other nutrients that have been found to be low in people with recurrent canker sores include riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and iron. A health practitioner can assess nutrient status through a simple blood test.
9. COLD SORES
(for Cold please see specific ailment)
*Black Walnut Extract is a great herb to apply directly to cold sores.
*Aloe Vera gel or plant gel may be applied directly to sore.
*Comfrey salve may be applied directly and has a high rate of speedy healing.
Did you know that eating foods rich in Lysine can help prevent cold sore breakouts?
Some Foods Rich in Lysine are:
Fruits & Vegetables
Beets
Brewer’s Yeast
Avocados
Mangos, Apricots, Pears, Apples, Figs
Papaya
Dairy Products
Eggs
Tomatoes
Sprouts
10. CONGESTION, LUNG
*Taking a steam shower will help break up congestion by taking deep breaths into the lungs and coughing up the mucous.
*Eucalyptus is an excellent herb to add to the steam shower.
*Inhaling mineral salt with a salt inhaler has proven to clear up congestion and promote mucous discharge.
*Licorice Root added to any herbal teas is a good thing for congestion.
KICK CONGESTION LUNCH
Did you know that chest and lung congestion is another form of sinus infection? Have some onions!
Ingredients:
2 Onions (sliced thinly)
1 Tablespoon Curry
2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
Saute onions and curry in olive oil and serve over rice, quinoa, or barley
You’ll be breathing easier!
(And those around you will have clear noses, too.)
11. CONGESTION, SINUS
*Licorice Root tea is a good immune booster and promotes the discharge of mucous.
*Adding fresh ginger to foods as well as steeping some peeled, sliced ginger in a cup of boiling water for ginger tea will help clear sinus pathways.
*Lemon Balm is a fantastic herb to add to teas that will help clear sinuses.
TOMATO TEA
Ingredients:
Tomato Juice or Vegetable Juice
3-8 cloves of Garlic minced
Lemon halved
Hot Sauce
Heat tomato juice in a pan on the stovetop (do not microwave), adding garlic (the more the better), half a squeezed lemon, and as much hot sauce as one can handle! Simmer together and drink!
12. CONSTIPATION
*Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day with a gently squeezed lemon to help balance pH.
*Apple juice in its organic and unfiltered form can be a great reliever of constipation.
*Mangoes are an excellent remedy for constipation along with lots of water.
*Dates and figs are both high in natural fibers and can relieve symptoms.
* ¼ teaspoon of Epsom salt to ½ glass of warm water can help find relief.
*Using a supplement of Omega 3’s are good fats that can relieve symptoms.
*Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of herbs is a proven source of relief for many who follow Ayurveda.
13. COUGH
*In a spoon of honey, pinch a bit of white pepper atop and take 2-3 times per day.
*Grapes act as a natural expectorant by toning up lungs!
*Mix a tablespoon of honey with a glass of grape juice.
*Almond butter is a good remedy for a dry cough. (And Yummy!)
*Add a dropper full of red clover tincture to your tea to stop coughs overnight.
CURB YOUR COUGH TEA
Ingredients:
Organic Lemon
1 ½ teaspoon Sage (dried or fresh)
1 ½ teaspoon Thyme (dried or fresh)
Boiling Water
Squeeze lemon juice and set aside. Slice ½ of lemon rind and place in cup. Add sage and thyme to cup. Pour boiling water over herbs and lemon and cover for 15 minutes.
Strain (or use tea tools). Add ¼ squeezed lemon juice to tea.
Add honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to sweeten.
14. DRY SKIN
*Rub and massage natural oils, like olive oil or coconut oil into your skin every other night.
*Avoid hot showers which will cause cracking of skin.
*Take an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
DRY SKIN EXFOLIATING RECIPE
Ingredients:
Mango
1-2 Tablespoons Honey
1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
3-4 Tablespoons of Cornmeal
½ - 1 cup of milk
In a blender, add peeled mango and all ingredients reserving ½ the milk. Blend until it forms a nice paste to the consistency you like. If it is too sticky, add more milk.
Take mixture with you to your warm (not hot) shower and exfoliate.
Follow up with your favorite moisturizer!
15. EAR ACHE
*Ear candle both ears as directions indicate.
*A clove of fresh garlic, halved and soaked in olive oil may be dropped directly into the ear via dropper. Heat up oil in a spoon over stove or candle and let cool to body temperature. (Test with dropper on wrist.) Never place anything cold in the ear for an ear ache!
*Cinnamon in olive oil with the same principles as above will work wonders!
*Colloidal Silver is a great resource for ear aches. It can be used by itself (warmed up) or mixed with lavender oil.
There is a lot of controversy over ear candling. Most alternative doctors recommend the practice, while other more Western medicine practitioners strongly discourage it.
I’m not sure whether some practitioners do not understand the concept of candling, as they claim hot wax will drip into one’s ear.
As a user of candles, I don’t see how this is possible. Ear candles should be made of muslin and dipped in wax. When candling, I use a paper plate that catches any wax drippings on the outside.
However, use your best judgment and talk to your physician. While it may not be the best decision for you, ear candling has made a huge difference for my family and me.
16. ENERGY BOOST
*Ginseng tea or supplements may be the most popular in Eastern Medicine to boost one’s energy and stamina.
*Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb in tablet or powder form, is by far my personal favorite to boost energy and focus.
*Coconut oil, full of Omega 3 fatty acids, gives a nice boost of energy by adding just a teaspoon to any hot tea beverage.
Have you heard of acupressure that will give you an immediate energy boost?
Traditional Chinese Medicine employs acupuncture which has recently gained much attention and is now considered a complementing therapy to many drug therapies and covered by most insurances.
There are spots located on the head, neck, front and back body that when pressure is applied, it will immediately stimulate an internal energy.
To read more about acupressure and understand the benefits of acupressure and how you can benefit from this needle free version of acupuncture, grab a copy of The Acupressure Atlas.
17. FEVER
*Catnip will promote sweating and therefore increase the benefits of a fever.
*Echinacea will help break a fever by boosting immunity.
*Hyssop, licorice root, and thyme make an excellent tea to lower temperature.
*Stay hydrated with filtered water for best absorption benefit.
Did you know that the degree of a temperature is not an indicator of how severe the problem is?
A fever is the body’s way of fighting an infection. By rising the temperature, making the body a deadly host to the virus or bacteria causing the fever, the body creates an environment where a virus or bacteria cannot live.
Most fevers will break in a few days and most fevers are better off left without treatment. However, there are circumstances when you should seek medical attention for you or your child with a fever.
Any newborn with a fever should be seen by a doctor immediately as a young baby cannot regulate their own temperature.
Whenever a fever is accompanied by severe vomiting, lethargy, or confusion, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. For a complete list of symptoms and a checklist to help you make a good decision, please contact your family physician.
18. FLU
*Colloidal Silver is the most powerful natural tool against viruses. It stops viruses in their tracks.
*Garlic will decrease the growth of a virus and can be taken as a freeze dried capsule or chopped up and steeped in boiling water to make a tea.
*Do not eat while a flu virus is actively growing. Starve the virus.
*Drink plenty of fluids and filtered water.
Did you know that there are techniques that you can employ now to prevent being sick from a flu or cold? Here are my favorites:
Get Enough Sleep
Eat Vitamin and Mineral Rich Foods (Fruits & Vegetables)
Wash Hands Regularly
Avoid Sugar
Drink 8-10 Glasses of Water
Reduce Stress
Use Salt Water Mouth Rinse & Gargle
Detox
Do Not Touch Your Face
Have A Hobby You Love
19. GUMS
*Use Bleeding Gum Mouthwash recipe.
*Licorice Root used internally and as a powder directly promotes anti cavity action by reducing plaque. It is also anti-bacterial.
*Amla, an Ayurvedic herb may be used as a mouth rinse and taken orally (1-2 grams) for gum disease.
*Bilberry fruit and hawthorn promote the stabilization of collagen and can be taken as a tea or supplement.
*Herbs that treat joints (tooth sockets are joints) are also very helpful: yellow dock root, alfalfa leaf, cinnamon bark, turmeric root can all be used as a tea or taken as a supplement.
BLEEDING GUM MOUTHWASH
Ingredients:
½ teaspoon sage
½ teaspoon calendula
Pinch of sea salt or mineral salt (NOT table salt)
Glass of warm water
Mix all ingredients in a glass of warm tap water. Rinse and repeat until the mixture is gone.
20. HANGOVER
*A tablespoon of honey in a cup of hot water to sip has been an old remedy with bartenders for years.
*Gingko Biloba has been used in other countries as an effective drunkenness preventer and hangover healer. It is said to speed up the metabolism of alcohol.
*Ginseng is another herb that is used for hangover relief in other countries. Ginseng is available in teas and capsules.
Did you know in Ireland it was said to bury the person hung over in moist sand up to their neck?
A Little Humor
A guy goes into a bar and continues to drink until he is really drunk. As he begins to walk home, every two steps he falls flat on his face. 2 steps away from his doorway and he falls inside. Unable to walk, he crawls up the stairs and into his bed.
In the morning his wife gets up before him and says "Were you drinking last night?"
He asks, "How did you know?"
She says, "You left your wheelchair at the bar, again."
21. HEADACHES
*Make sure the headache is not from dehydration. Drink water with lemon to balance pH.
*Take a high quality mineral supplement.
*Take a B complex vitamin supplement.
*Feverfew taken as a tea or as a supplement can prove effective for headaches of all kinds.
*Ginkgo Biloba as a supplement is proven to be a beneficial addition to headache therapy.
Did you know there are 5 types of headaches?
Tension headaches feel like a constant ache or pressure located somewhere on the head.
Cluster headaches are headaches that occur in groups or cycles.
Rebound headaches happen when a person has taken too much over the counter medicine, like aspirin or acetaminophen, which will lead to waking up with a headache the next day.
Migraine headaches come from a neurological disorder that is likely hereditary.
Sinus headaches happen when the sinuses become inflamed. This is usually accompanied by a fever.
22. INDIGESTION & Heartburn
*Cinnamon added to any tea can prevent and relieve bloating, gas, and cramping associated with gas.
*Dandelion tea is a great liver tonic and can relieve gas immediately.
*Ginger, either added to food as a preventable measure or taken as a steeped tea after is a very effective remedy.
TIPS TO AVOID HEARTBURN/Indigestion
Do not eat 2 hours before going to bed.
Eat smaller & more frequent meals.
Avoid mint teas & flavorings.
Chew a non-mint gum.
Eat foods rich in fiber.
Avoid smoking & alcohol.
Do not eat on the run.
Relax and allow yourself to enjoy your food.
Do not allow your stomach to become too empty, keep fiber rich fruits & whole grain snacks on hand.
23. INSOMNIA
*Chamomile tea is a nice relaxing tea and will soothe one’s physical self as well as emotional.
*St. John’s Wort is an excellent herb to use to help with insomnia due to stress.
*California Poppy has been used as a mild sedative and is quite effective. Be careful not to overuse.
COMMON CAUSES OF INSOMNIA
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Poor Sleeping Habits
Learned Insomnia (worrying too much about sleep)
Overeating
Medications
Stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, & nicotine)
24. MENSTRUAL PAIN
*All of the following herbs can be used to help with menstrual pain in tea form: Black Haw, Angelica, Raspberry, Ginger, Red Clover, and Yarrow.
*Taking a high quality mineral supplement can be very beneficial.
*If on birth control pills, it is important to increase your levels of folate (Vitamin B Complex) in the diet as birth control pills can prevent the absorption of many minerals.
There is no scientific study that I’m aware of to back up what I’m about to share, so please read my personal story and make your own decision.
I have had horrible menstrual cramping for the majority of my life. I used birth control pills to control my periods and cramping for the longest time before the concern of extensive chemical use was more of a concern than cramping. (This decision almost killed me as I later found it increased my personal risk of stroke by 40% because I had an undiagnosed PFO.)
By experimentation, I cut out the use of chemical forms of estrogen that are in our foods and beauty products, disguised as preservatives.
Hormones given to dairy cows have been linked to early puberty and something in me just knows that having bad periods is also linked.
Since I have cut out parabens, sulfates, nitrates, and xenoestrogens, I no longer suffer from cramping.
I encourage every woman to experiment and try natural ways of being. Some natural methods may work better than chemical versions, while some may not. I think we owe it to our health and our daughter’s health to find the healthiest ways of being.
25. MUSCLE PAIN
*Eat a banana.
*Soak in a bath of Epsom salts, 2 cups to a hot bath, while drinking a cup of chamomile tea.
*Use a rosemary wash
*Use All Heal Oil topically on your sore muscles and joints
ROSEMARY WASH
Ingredients:
1 ounce Rosemary Leaves
Boiling Water
In a pot, bring 2 pints of water to a boil. After it is boiling rapidly, remove it from heat and add dried or fresh rosemary leaves.
Cover to steep and cool for at least 30 minutes.
Wet washcloth with the rosemary wash and place on sore muscles as needed.
26. NAUSEA
*Ginger is a great nausea suppressant; either by fresh ginger cut up and steeped in hot water to drink as tea, or by organic and real ginger ale.
*Make a tea of ginger, cinnamon, chamomile, and lemon balm.
TEA FOR NAUSEA
Making a tea decoction is really a simple endeavor that you will reap rewards from for the rest of your life!
I personally like to cut up fresh pieces of ginger and place them in the bottom of a cup ready for my special ingredients.
For nausea, I add cinnamon, some dried chamomile and lemon balm leaves in a tea strainer. I like about ½ teaspoon of each.
I boil my water and pour through my tea strainer. I cover it, which prevents many of the nutrients and benefits of the herbs from evaporating with the steam.
I like to sweeten with honey or maple syrup. If fructose intake is a concern maybe try some agave nectar which does not raise the glycemic index like honey and syrups do.
With this basic understanding, you can vary herbs to your needs.
28. RELAXATION
*Herbs that will help one relax while under stressful situations are: valerian, skullcap, and chamomile. These may be taken as supplements or incorporated into a loose leaf tea.
*Take a bath with sea salts.
*Aromatherapy essential oils of lavender can be placed on pulse points as well as burned over a candle for a larger area.
MEDITATION
Meditation has numerous benefits; pure rest and relaxation are only the beginning on the list!
Some other benefits of meditation are:
Reduced Stress
Lower Levels of Anxiety & Depression
Control over Negative Thinking
Detachment from Irritations
Purposeful Living
Intuitive Development
Increased Creativity
Increased Concentration
Sense of Happiness
Peace of Mind
Meditation has been said to have just as powerful effects on high blood pressure as some medications!
30. RUNNY NOSE
*Goldenseal can clear mucous from the throat.
*The following herbs can make an excellent tea to clear up a runny nose: ¼ tsp of cayenne will stimulate circulation, cinnamon (stick or ground), fresh ginger grated.
*The Ayurvedic tool, Neti Pot, is one of my favorite remedies for runny noses and all sinus issues.
BREATHE DEEPLY
Did you know that learning to breathe more effectively could help clear your nose, sinuses and possibly prevent cold viruses from taking home in your body?
Yoga and breath have been linked for centuries and only recently has breathing been seen as a possible tool for the common cold!
With a minor case of the sniffles try this: Breathe deeply and slowly in through your nose, filling up your diaphragm. You should feel your diaphragm expand and your stomach area should physically expand.
If your shoulders move, you are not breathing deeply enough, only allow breath to be sucked in from your stomach area and pushed out through your stomach area.
Release the breath slowly through your nose and repeat.
31. SORE THROAT
*Chamomile tea is a great soother of the sore throat.
*Adding grated ginger to any food or to tea will benefit a sore throat.
*Apple cider vinegar is an excellent remedy!
*Adding lemon to water can balance pH and help clear up the source of the sore throat!
*Gargling with warm salt water can soothe an irritated throat for any reason and is a great preventative technique for colds and flu.
SORE THROAT GARGLE
While this gargle has been said to be able to clear up strep throat, I still recommend seeing your physician if a sore throat persists.
Ingredients:
1 Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar
1 Tablespoon of Cayenne
3 Tablespoons of Honey
Add above ingredients to a large glass of warm water.
Gargle the concoction and then swallow. Repeat until gone.
32. SUNBURN
*Adding a cup of apple cider vinegar to a bath is my favorite sunburn remedy! It immediately takes out the sting!
*Yogurt when spread over the burn is a great remedy!
*Lavender essential oil can be rubbed directly onto the skin and is said to have superb healing properties.
*Aloe when used in gel form or from the plant directly is one of the most popular sunburn remedies.
SUNBURN RELIEF
This is a little mixture I keep in my refrigerator throughout the summer months!
Ingredients:
6 ounces of aloe juice
½ teaspoon of lavender essential oil
2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
4 capsules of Vitamin E (poked and drained)
I keep this in a jar where my kids can grab it at their leisure in my refrigerator. It has brought us relief in an instant!
Make sure to keep it refrigerated.
33. TOOTHACHE
*Applying ground cloves or food grade clove oil directly to the tooth causing problems is said to be the most popular toothache remedy!
*Cutting a clove of garlic and placing it upon the aching tooth has been known to help.
INTERESTING TOOTH FACTS
Did you know that your tooth sockets are joints?
Did you know that a sore jaw when combined with chest pain is a sign of a heart attack?
Did you know that dentists recommend keeping your toothbrush at least 6 feet away from a toilet?
Did you know that floss was first made of silk?
Did you know that more than 300 types of bacteria make up dental plaque?
Did you know that everyone has a unique tongue print, just like a fingerprint?
34. TOXIN REMOVAL
Removing toxins on a regular basis has been said to prevent many uncomfortable symptoms and can be viewed as preventative medicine by some people. There are so many diverse ways to remove toxins that I’m going to list my favorites. For more ideas, please visit AlcheMysticArts.com!
*Drink 8-10 glasses of water with a wedge of organic lemon squeezed in each glass.
*Triphala, an Ayurvedic herbal mixture, is known to help detoxify.
*Chamomile tea is one of the greatest detoxification teas in my opinion!
*Sea salt baths are another great resource for detoxification! After soaking, it may be best to rinse off in a quick shower, as the salt seems to draw out toxins and could be reabsorbed into the skin.
*Taking a mineral supplement can help all your organs perform at their best. Trace minerals are not found in a normal diet and should be supplemented.
*Exercise not only trims muscles but aids in the detoxification of muscles and joints! Have you ever noticed an itching feeling after exercising? That is a toxin release and why it is important to shower after exercise to prevent re-absorption.
*Sauna, sauna, sauna! If you are serious about detoxification, a sauna is a must have.
35. WART
*Tea tree essential oil applied directly to the wart 2-3 times a day with a cotton swab has been said to be a very effective means of wart removal. It is recorded to be effective within 10 days.
*Protecting the skin and surrounding skin with Vitamin E and preparing a mash of garlic to apply directly after the Vitamin E application is known to cause a blister on the wart which will fall off within a week.
*Calendula & St. John’s Wort tea, brewed strongly is said to be an excellent remedy!
Did you know that warts are a common skin virus caused by the Human Papillomavirus or HPV?
There are over 100 strains of HPV, some that cause genital warts, some that cause hand warts, and some strains cause both!
You can be introduced to the HPV virus by shaking hands, sharing towels, or touching an inanimate object where another wart sufferer has been.
You can prevent the HPV virus from spreading by washing your hands and practicing safe sex.
HPV is more likely to cause warts after it has come into contact with skin that has been scratched or damaged.
36. WOUND CLEANING & HEALING
*Turmeric has been said to be a very helpful cleaning and healing herb to apply directing to a wound that does not require medical attention.
*Honey, when applied in a small amount directly to the wound after cleaning, is known to be an effective healing agent. Cover with a cotton bandage after honey application.
*Tea tree oil is a disinfectant and can minimize scar tissue to wounds.
*Oil of lavender kills germs and can increase tissue growth to promote healing when applied directly!
If herbal medicine is a part of how you live and heal, you'll want to get your free samples of my herbal books. Search Wendy Rae in Amazon or click to get a free sample on the right sidebar of your computer screen. (May not be visible on mobile devices.) Thank you for reading!
I personally practice herbal medicine for myself and my family. I've been lucky to introduce herbal remedies to hundreds of others through my classes. I strive to provide the best remedies that are effective, timely, and convenient to us.
It has happened in more than one instance, when in a hurried panic to stop slight bleeding, relieve a headache, or help a bruise heal more quickly, I somehow forget all my natural sense! The remedies I spent so much time researching and practicing, when in a rush, escape my mind.
I knew that because of this, I would eventually put together this ultimate list to serve my own needs, and here it is. Perhaps you will find it as indispensable as I. Remember to save it on your favorites and share it so you can find it easily when you need to remember how to handle minor daily issues with natural care.
Perhaps you will find these ideas, suggestions, and tidbits as vital as I do.
I’m not by any means a doctor or qualified to give medical advice. I do believe that a person’s health and healing is a spiritual journey as much as a physical one. This ultimate list is to be considered for educational purposes only.
Hippocrates once said, “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.”
Below I have organized a shopping list of what I feel are the most important ingredients to always have on hand. This is merely a suggestion and you should make the decisions for you and your family’s needs.
Remember to always consult your doctor when treating any medical issue.
You will notice that some of these things you will probably already have in your kitchen cabinets and if you don’t have it I list my favorite resource and brand in parenthesis behind it.
Most Important
Apple Cider Vinegar (I like this one.)
Chamomile Tea (I’m never without this brand.)
Powered Licorice Root (My favorite.)
Vitamin C Rich Foods
Honey (My preference.)
Essential Oil of Lavender (My favorite)
Aloe gel or plant
Vitamin E (What I use.)
Witch Hazel Water (My preferred brand.)
Rescue Remedy Cream (I’m never without this.)
Rescue Remedy Drops (I’m never without this, either.)
Lemons
Olive Oil
Epsom Salts (My favorite.)
Colloidal Silver (My preferred brand.)
Garlic
Cayenne
Ginger
Lemon Balm Dried Herb (What I prefer to use.)
Omega 3’s
Cinnamon
California Poppy (My preferred brand.)
SYMPTOM LIST
1. ACNE*Constipation is a leading cause of acne.
*Wet a cotton ball with apple cider vinegar and apply directly to problem area. Repeat twice daily until cleared.
*Drink 8 glasses of water daily with a lemon wedge gently squeezed in each glass.
*Apply aloe vera gel or plant directly to problem area.
ACNE MASK RECIPE
Ingredients:
½ Cup Whole Milk Yogurt
1 Tablespoon Honey
1 ½ - 5 Tablespoons Ground Oatmeal
Grind oatmeal in a coffee grinder or grain mill and set aside. Mix together yogurt and honey thoroughly, then add preferable amount of oatmeal to make a paste.
Apply and let sit.
Rinse with warm water.
2. ALLERGY
*Eat Vitamin C rich foods.
*Nettle is a good herb for allergies. Use an herbal tea with nettle or can be taken in capsules.
*Angelica is an herbal antihistamine and is good to use in teas.
*Licorice Root is an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial. It is an excellent addition to any tea.
*Eat foods rich in sulfur.
NETTLE TEA RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 ounce of dried nettle leaf
1 pint of boiling water
Boil water over stove (not microwave). After water comes to a rapid boil, remove from heat and add nettles. Let sit, covered, for 15 minutes.
Other herbs and natural sweeteners may be added to taste.
3. ARTHRITIS PAIN
*Rub joints with warm olive oil.
*Relieve constipation and follow toxin removal tips below
*Soak in a bath with Epsom salts.
*Take an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
*Boswellia is a good herb to add for relief of symptoms.
*Eat Nettle Soup.
NETTLE SOUP
Ingredients:
Olive oil or butter for sautéing
Onion
3-6 cloves of Garlic
3 potatoes
3 stalks of celery
Stock or water
Nettles
Sauté onion, garlic, potatoes and celery in olive oil or preferred fat.
Add water or stock until pot is half full. Once soup mixture is simmering, add as many nettles as you like. (I stuff my pot full!)
Let simmer until potatoes are done and serve!
*TIP: You can add some coconut cream and blend the mixture with an immersion blender for a creamy nettle soup! Add some vegan cheese and you have a kid loving, healthy soup!
4. BLADDER INFECTION (UTI)
Please seek medical attention as a continuing bacterial infection can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys. These methods are for prevention!
*Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily with a gently squeezed lemon in each glass to balance pH.
*Avoid sugary, soda, and alcoholic beverages.
*Uva Ursi is an herb that is antibacterial. Supplements are available in health food stores or online.
SOME UTI CAUSES
Urinary Tract Infections can have a bunch of different causes. Scan the most frequent causes to see if you can prevent any further discomfort!
Dehydration is a common and misdiagnosed cause of urinary tract infections!
Bacteria that live in the bowels and near the vaginal openings when spread can enter the urethra and cause infection. Make sure to wipe front to back and teach young children how to properly care for themselves.
Sexual intercourse is another common cause of infection. Urinating before and after intercourse can sometimes prevent an infection.
Pregnancy, diabetes, and menopause are also contributors to frequent UTIs.
5. BLEEDING, STOPPING
If bleeding is severe, please seek medical attention ASAP. These methods are for minor injuries only.
*Cayenne applied directly to a small wound will stop bleeding almost immediately. (It will not burn!)
*Yarrow is a good herb that you may apply directly to the wound. Native tribes use yarrow for many reasons, this being a major one.
*To read about cleaning and helping a wound heal, please see below.
IN AN EMERGENCY
CALL 911!
While ambulance is on its way you can CONTROL the bleeding by:
- Applying Pressure with gauze or terry cloth to the wound. If the blood soaks through the gauze or terry cloth, ADD another layer!
- Keep applying pressure and hold wound up higher than heart if possible (with arms, legs, etc).
- Treat person for shock. Lay person down flat (if no suspected neck injury) while continuing to elevate injury, applying pressure and keep them warm. Cover with blankets and extra clothing until ambulance arrives.
6. BLOATING
*Chamomile tea is an excellent source to relieve bloating. Brew according to directions.
*Wormwood and mugwort are herbs that can also relieve uncomfortable bloating. They can be added to teas or taken as capsules.
*Tarragon, a common kitchen herb will also relieve bloating.
ANTI BLOATING FOODS
Look in your refrigerator for a few foods that have been known to help relieve bloating and stimulate digestion:
Fresh Pineapple
Fresh Papaya
Yogurt
Black Pepper
Celery
Peppermint Tea
Chamomile Tea
Asparagus
6. BRUISES
*A sliced up raw potato applied directly to the bruise will help heal the bruise within days.
*Fresh parsley chopped up finely, mixed with a little bit of olive oil to make a paste will heal a bruise quickly when applied directly and then covered with cotton gauze (not tightly).
*Dab witch hazel water to the bruise 3-5 times per day with a cotton swab.
Did you know that some medications can prevent your blood from clotting therefore causing bruises to appear?
Antidepressants
Aspirin
Anesthetics
Cortisone
Penicillin
While taking these medications, you may be more likely and susceptible to bruising.
7. BURNS
These remedies are for minor burns only. If you are unsure if your burn is minor, please seek medical attention.
*Apply cool water immediately to stop the residual burning effect.
*Apply aloe vera gel or plant to the burn directly.
*Break open a capsule of Vitamin E and apply directly to the burn.
*Apply raw honey to the burn and wrap loosely with cotton gauze.
*Apply witch hazel water with a cotton ball 3-5 times per day as needed.
*Ground mustard applied directly to the burn will relieve pain and help heal the burn more quickly.
Sunburn
*Take an apple cider vinegar bath.
*Yogurt has a cooling and healing affect for sunburns.
*Lavender essential oil is the only oil that can be applied directly to
the skin without irritation.
*Aloe vera gel or plant gel may be applied directly to the burn.
*Sunburn relief recipe listed here.
8. CANKER SORES
*Gotu Kola is an excellent herb to treat canker sores. Add 1 ounce to tea.
*Chamomile tea may be enjoyed as a drink and as a mouthwash.
*Licorice Root Powder applied directly to the canker sore will relieve irritation and help heal fast.
*Aloe Gel may be used to brush and soothe the canker sore.
Did you know that most regular toothpastes can cause canker sores?
The foaming agent, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), has been linked to canker sores in those who are sensitive to this ingredient.
Some toothpastes are SLS free:
Breath RX Products
Tom’s of Maine
TheraBreath Products
Oxyfresh
Nutritional deficiency can also be a source of canker sores.
Consider a vitamin supplement like Thiamin (vitamin B1), as deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of canker sores. Other nutrients that have been found to be low in people with recurrent canker sores include riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and iron. A health practitioner can assess nutrient status through a simple blood test.
9. COLD SORES
(for Cold please see specific ailment)
*Black Walnut Extract is a great herb to apply directly to cold sores.
*Aloe Vera gel or plant gel may be applied directly to sore.
*Comfrey salve may be applied directly and has a high rate of speedy healing.
Did you know that eating foods rich in Lysine can help prevent cold sore breakouts?
Some Foods Rich in Lysine are:
Fruits & Vegetables
Beets
Brewer’s Yeast
Avocados
Mangos, Apricots, Pears, Apples, Figs
Papaya
Dairy Products
Eggs
Tomatoes
Sprouts
10. CONGESTION, LUNG
*Taking a steam shower will help break up congestion by taking deep breaths into the lungs and coughing up the mucous.
*Eucalyptus is an excellent herb to add to the steam shower.
*Inhaling mineral salt with a salt inhaler has proven to clear up congestion and promote mucous discharge.
*Licorice Root added to any herbal teas is a good thing for congestion.
KICK CONGESTION LUNCH
Did you know that chest and lung congestion is another form of sinus infection? Have some onions!
Ingredients:
2 Onions (sliced thinly)
1 Tablespoon Curry
2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
Saute onions and curry in olive oil and serve over rice, quinoa, or barley
You’ll be breathing easier!
(And those around you will have clear noses, too.)
11. CONGESTION, SINUS
*Licorice Root tea is a good immune booster and promotes the discharge of mucous.
*Adding fresh ginger to foods as well as steeping some peeled, sliced ginger in a cup of boiling water for ginger tea will help clear sinus pathways.
*Lemon Balm is a fantastic herb to add to teas that will help clear sinuses.
TOMATO TEA
Ingredients:
Tomato Juice or Vegetable Juice
3-8 cloves of Garlic minced
Lemon halved
Hot Sauce
Heat tomato juice in a pan on the stovetop (do not microwave), adding garlic (the more the better), half a squeezed lemon, and as much hot sauce as one can handle! Simmer together and drink!
12. CONSTIPATION
*Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day with a gently squeezed lemon to help balance pH.
*Apple juice in its organic and unfiltered form can be a great reliever of constipation.
*Mangoes are an excellent remedy for constipation along with lots of water.
*Dates and figs are both high in natural fibers and can relieve symptoms.
* ¼ teaspoon of Epsom salt to ½ glass of warm water can help find relief.
*Using a supplement of Omega 3’s are good fats that can relieve symptoms.
*Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of herbs is a proven source of relief for many who follow Ayurveda.
13. COUGH
*In a spoon of honey, pinch a bit of white pepper atop and take 2-3 times per day.
*Grapes act as a natural expectorant by toning up lungs!
*Mix a tablespoon of honey with a glass of grape juice.
*Almond butter is a good remedy for a dry cough. (And Yummy!)
*Add a dropper full of red clover tincture to your tea to stop coughs overnight.
CURB YOUR COUGH TEA
Ingredients:
Organic Lemon
1 ½ teaspoon Sage (dried or fresh)
1 ½ teaspoon Thyme (dried or fresh)
Boiling Water
Squeeze lemon juice and set aside. Slice ½ of lemon rind and place in cup. Add sage and thyme to cup. Pour boiling water over herbs and lemon and cover for 15 minutes.
Strain (or use tea tools). Add ¼ squeezed lemon juice to tea.
Add honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to sweeten.
14. DRY SKIN
*Rub and massage natural oils, like olive oil or coconut oil into your skin every other night.
*Avoid hot showers which will cause cracking of skin.
*Take an Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
DRY SKIN EXFOLIATING RECIPE
Ingredients:
Mango
1-2 Tablespoons Honey
1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
3-4 Tablespoons of Cornmeal
½ - 1 cup of milk
In a blender, add peeled mango and all ingredients reserving ½ the milk. Blend until it forms a nice paste to the consistency you like. If it is too sticky, add more milk.
Take mixture with you to your warm (not hot) shower and exfoliate.
Follow up with your favorite moisturizer!
15. EAR ACHE
*Ear candle both ears as directions indicate.
*A clove of fresh garlic, halved and soaked in olive oil may be dropped directly into the ear via dropper. Heat up oil in a spoon over stove or candle and let cool to body temperature. (Test with dropper on wrist.) Never place anything cold in the ear for an ear ache!
*Cinnamon in olive oil with the same principles as above will work wonders!
*Colloidal Silver is a great resource for ear aches. It can be used by itself (warmed up) or mixed with lavender oil.
There is a lot of controversy over ear candling. Most alternative doctors recommend the practice, while other more Western medicine practitioners strongly discourage it.
I’m not sure whether some practitioners do not understand the concept of candling, as they claim hot wax will drip into one’s ear.
As a user of candles, I don’t see how this is possible. Ear candles should be made of muslin and dipped in wax. When candling, I use a paper plate that catches any wax drippings on the outside.
However, use your best judgment and talk to your physician. While it may not be the best decision for you, ear candling has made a huge difference for my family and me.
16. ENERGY BOOST
*Ginseng tea or supplements may be the most popular in Eastern Medicine to boost one’s energy and stamina.
*Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb in tablet or powder form, is by far my personal favorite to boost energy and focus.
*Coconut oil, full of Omega 3 fatty acids, gives a nice boost of energy by adding just a teaspoon to any hot tea beverage.
Have you heard of acupressure that will give you an immediate energy boost?
Traditional Chinese Medicine employs acupuncture which has recently gained much attention and is now considered a complementing therapy to many drug therapies and covered by most insurances.
There are spots located on the head, neck, front and back body that when pressure is applied, it will immediately stimulate an internal energy.
To read more about acupressure and understand the benefits of acupressure and how you can benefit from this needle free version of acupuncture, grab a copy of The Acupressure Atlas.
17. FEVER
*Catnip will promote sweating and therefore increase the benefits of a fever.
*Echinacea will help break a fever by boosting immunity.
*Hyssop, licorice root, and thyme make an excellent tea to lower temperature.
*Stay hydrated with filtered water for best absorption benefit.
Did you know that the degree of a temperature is not an indicator of how severe the problem is?
A fever is the body’s way of fighting an infection. By rising the temperature, making the body a deadly host to the virus or bacteria causing the fever, the body creates an environment where a virus or bacteria cannot live.
Most fevers will break in a few days and most fevers are better off left without treatment. However, there are circumstances when you should seek medical attention for you or your child with a fever.
Any newborn with a fever should be seen by a doctor immediately as a young baby cannot regulate their own temperature.
Whenever a fever is accompanied by severe vomiting, lethargy, or confusion, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. For a complete list of symptoms and a checklist to help you make a good decision, please contact your family physician.
18. FLU
*Colloidal Silver is the most powerful natural tool against viruses. It stops viruses in their tracks.
*Garlic will decrease the growth of a virus and can be taken as a freeze dried capsule or chopped up and steeped in boiling water to make a tea.
*Do not eat while a flu virus is actively growing. Starve the virus.
*Drink plenty of fluids and filtered water.
Did you know that there are techniques that you can employ now to prevent being sick from a flu or cold? Here are my favorites:
Get Enough Sleep
Eat Vitamin and Mineral Rich Foods (Fruits & Vegetables)
Wash Hands Regularly
Avoid Sugar
Drink 8-10 Glasses of Water
Reduce Stress
Use Salt Water Mouth Rinse & Gargle
Detox
Do Not Touch Your Face
Have A Hobby You Love
19. GUMS
*Use Bleeding Gum Mouthwash recipe.
*Licorice Root used internally and as a powder directly promotes anti cavity action by reducing plaque. It is also anti-bacterial.
*Amla, an Ayurvedic herb may be used as a mouth rinse and taken orally (1-2 grams) for gum disease.
*Bilberry fruit and hawthorn promote the stabilization of collagen and can be taken as a tea or supplement.
*Herbs that treat joints (tooth sockets are joints) are also very helpful: yellow dock root, alfalfa leaf, cinnamon bark, turmeric root can all be used as a tea or taken as a supplement.
BLEEDING GUM MOUTHWASH
Ingredients:
½ teaspoon sage
½ teaspoon calendula
Pinch of sea salt or mineral salt (NOT table salt)
Glass of warm water
Mix all ingredients in a glass of warm tap water. Rinse and repeat until the mixture is gone.
20. HANGOVER
*A tablespoon of honey in a cup of hot water to sip has been an old remedy with bartenders for years.
*Gingko Biloba has been used in other countries as an effective drunkenness preventer and hangover healer. It is said to speed up the metabolism of alcohol.
*Ginseng is another herb that is used for hangover relief in other countries. Ginseng is available in teas and capsules.
Did you know in Ireland it was said to bury the person hung over in moist sand up to their neck?
A Little Humor
A guy goes into a bar and continues to drink until he is really drunk. As he begins to walk home, every two steps he falls flat on his face. 2 steps away from his doorway and he falls inside. Unable to walk, he crawls up the stairs and into his bed.
In the morning his wife gets up before him and says "Were you drinking last night?"
He asks, "How did you know?"
She says, "You left your wheelchair at the bar, again."
21. HEADACHES
*Make sure the headache is not from dehydration. Drink water with lemon to balance pH.
*Take a high quality mineral supplement.
*Take a B complex vitamin supplement.
*Feverfew taken as a tea or as a supplement can prove effective for headaches of all kinds.
*Ginkgo Biloba as a supplement is proven to be a beneficial addition to headache therapy.
Did you know there are 5 types of headaches?
Tension headaches feel like a constant ache or pressure located somewhere on the head.
Cluster headaches are headaches that occur in groups or cycles.
Rebound headaches happen when a person has taken too much over the counter medicine, like aspirin or acetaminophen, which will lead to waking up with a headache the next day.
Migraine headaches come from a neurological disorder that is likely hereditary.
Sinus headaches happen when the sinuses become inflamed. This is usually accompanied by a fever.
22. INDIGESTION & Heartburn
*Cinnamon added to any tea can prevent and relieve bloating, gas, and cramping associated with gas.
*Dandelion tea is a great liver tonic and can relieve gas immediately.
*Ginger, either added to food as a preventable measure or taken as a steeped tea after is a very effective remedy.
TIPS TO AVOID HEARTBURN/Indigestion
Do not eat 2 hours before going to bed.
Eat smaller & more frequent meals.
Avoid mint teas & flavorings.
Chew a non-mint gum.
Eat foods rich in fiber.
Avoid smoking & alcohol.
Do not eat on the run.
Relax and allow yourself to enjoy your food.
Do not allow your stomach to become too empty, keep fiber rich fruits & whole grain snacks on hand.
23. INSOMNIA
*Chamomile tea is a nice relaxing tea and will soothe one’s physical self as well as emotional.
*St. John’s Wort is an excellent herb to use to help with insomnia due to stress.
*California Poppy has been used as a mild sedative and is quite effective. Be careful not to overuse.
COMMON CAUSES OF INSOMNIA
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Poor Sleeping Habits
Learned Insomnia (worrying too much about sleep)
Overeating
Medications
Stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, & nicotine)
24. MENSTRUAL PAIN
*All of the following herbs can be used to help with menstrual pain in tea form: Black Haw, Angelica, Raspberry, Ginger, Red Clover, and Yarrow.
*Taking a high quality mineral supplement can be very beneficial.
*If on birth control pills, it is important to increase your levels of folate (Vitamin B Complex) in the diet as birth control pills can prevent the absorption of many minerals.
There is no scientific study that I’m aware of to back up what I’m about to share, so please read my personal story and make your own decision.
I have had horrible menstrual cramping for the majority of my life. I used birth control pills to control my periods and cramping for the longest time before the concern of extensive chemical use was more of a concern than cramping. (This decision almost killed me as I later found it increased my personal risk of stroke by 40% because I had an undiagnosed PFO.)
By experimentation, I cut out the use of chemical forms of estrogen that are in our foods and beauty products, disguised as preservatives.
Hormones given to dairy cows have been linked to early puberty and something in me just knows that having bad periods is also linked.
Since I have cut out parabens, sulfates, nitrates, and xenoestrogens, I no longer suffer from cramping.
I encourage every woman to experiment and try natural ways of being. Some natural methods may work better than chemical versions, while some may not. I think we owe it to our health and our daughter’s health to find the healthiest ways of being.
25. MUSCLE PAIN
*Eat a banana.
*Soak in a bath of Epsom salts, 2 cups to a hot bath, while drinking a cup of chamomile tea.
*Use a rosemary wash
*Use All Heal Oil topically on your sore muscles and joints
ROSEMARY WASH
Ingredients:
1 ounce Rosemary Leaves
Boiling Water
In a pot, bring 2 pints of water to a boil. After it is boiling rapidly, remove it from heat and add dried or fresh rosemary leaves.
Cover to steep and cool for at least 30 minutes.
Wet washcloth with the rosemary wash and place on sore muscles as needed.
26. NAUSEA
*Ginger is a great nausea suppressant; either by fresh ginger cut up and steeped in hot water to drink as tea, or by organic and real ginger ale.
*Make a tea of ginger, cinnamon, chamomile, and lemon balm.
TEA FOR NAUSEA
Making a tea decoction is really a simple endeavor that you will reap rewards from for the rest of your life!
I personally like to cut up fresh pieces of ginger and place them in the bottom of a cup ready for my special ingredients.
For nausea, I add cinnamon, some dried chamomile and lemon balm leaves in a tea strainer. I like about ½ teaspoon of each.
I boil my water and pour through my tea strainer. I cover it, which prevents many of the nutrients and benefits of the herbs from evaporating with the steam.
I like to sweeten with honey or maple syrup. If fructose intake is a concern maybe try some agave nectar which does not raise the glycemic index like honey and syrups do.
With this basic understanding, you can vary herbs to your needs.
28. RELAXATION
*Herbs that will help one relax while under stressful situations are: valerian, skullcap, and chamomile. These may be taken as supplements or incorporated into a loose leaf tea.
*Take a bath with sea salts.
*Aromatherapy essential oils of lavender can be placed on pulse points as well as burned over a candle for a larger area.
MEDITATION
Meditation has numerous benefits; pure rest and relaxation are only the beginning on the list!
Some other benefits of meditation are:
Reduced Stress
Lower Levels of Anxiety & Depression
Control over Negative Thinking
Detachment from Irritations
Purposeful Living
Intuitive Development
Increased Creativity
Increased Concentration
Sense of Happiness
Peace of Mind
Meditation has been said to have just as powerful effects on high blood pressure as some medications!
30. RUNNY NOSE
*Goldenseal can clear mucous from the throat.
*The following herbs can make an excellent tea to clear up a runny nose: ¼ tsp of cayenne will stimulate circulation, cinnamon (stick or ground), fresh ginger grated.
*The Ayurvedic tool, Neti Pot, is one of my favorite remedies for runny noses and all sinus issues.
BREATHE DEEPLY
Did you know that learning to breathe more effectively could help clear your nose, sinuses and possibly prevent cold viruses from taking home in your body?
Yoga and breath have been linked for centuries and only recently has breathing been seen as a possible tool for the common cold!
With a minor case of the sniffles try this: Breathe deeply and slowly in through your nose, filling up your diaphragm. You should feel your diaphragm expand and your stomach area should physically expand.
If your shoulders move, you are not breathing deeply enough, only allow breath to be sucked in from your stomach area and pushed out through your stomach area.
Release the breath slowly through your nose and repeat.
31. SORE THROAT
*Chamomile tea is a great soother of the sore throat.
*Adding grated ginger to any food or to tea will benefit a sore throat.
*Apple cider vinegar is an excellent remedy!
*Adding lemon to water can balance pH and help clear up the source of the sore throat!
*Gargling with warm salt water can soothe an irritated throat for any reason and is a great preventative technique for colds and flu.
SORE THROAT GARGLE
While this gargle has been said to be able to clear up strep throat, I still recommend seeing your physician if a sore throat persists.
Ingredients:
1 Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar
1 Tablespoon of Cayenne
3 Tablespoons of Honey
Add above ingredients to a large glass of warm water.
Gargle the concoction and then swallow. Repeat until gone.
32. SUNBURN
*Adding a cup of apple cider vinegar to a bath is my favorite sunburn remedy! It immediately takes out the sting!
*Yogurt when spread over the burn is a great remedy!
*Lavender essential oil can be rubbed directly onto the skin and is said to have superb healing properties.
*Aloe when used in gel form or from the plant directly is one of the most popular sunburn remedies.
SUNBURN RELIEF
This is a little mixture I keep in my refrigerator throughout the summer months!
Ingredients:
6 ounces of aloe juice
½ teaspoon of lavender essential oil
2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
4 capsules of Vitamin E (poked and drained)
I keep this in a jar where my kids can grab it at their leisure in my refrigerator. It has brought us relief in an instant!
Make sure to keep it refrigerated.
33. TOOTHACHE
*Applying ground cloves or food grade clove oil directly to the tooth causing problems is said to be the most popular toothache remedy!
*Cutting a clove of garlic and placing it upon the aching tooth has been known to help.
INTERESTING TOOTH FACTS
Did you know that your tooth sockets are joints?
Did you know that a sore jaw when combined with chest pain is a sign of a heart attack?
Did you know that dentists recommend keeping your toothbrush at least 6 feet away from a toilet?
Did you know that floss was first made of silk?
Did you know that more than 300 types of bacteria make up dental plaque?
Did you know that everyone has a unique tongue print, just like a fingerprint?
34. TOXIN REMOVAL
Removing toxins on a regular basis has been said to prevent many uncomfortable symptoms and can be viewed as preventative medicine by some people. There are so many diverse ways to remove toxins that I’m going to list my favorites. For more ideas, please visit AlcheMysticArts.com!
*Drink 8-10 glasses of water with a wedge of organic lemon squeezed in each glass.
*Triphala, an Ayurvedic herbal mixture, is known to help detoxify.
*Chamomile tea is one of the greatest detoxification teas in my opinion!
*Sea salt baths are another great resource for detoxification! After soaking, it may be best to rinse off in a quick shower, as the salt seems to draw out toxins and could be reabsorbed into the skin.
*Taking a mineral supplement can help all your organs perform at their best. Trace minerals are not found in a normal diet and should be supplemented.
*Exercise not only trims muscles but aids in the detoxification of muscles and joints! Have you ever noticed an itching feeling after exercising? That is a toxin release and why it is important to shower after exercise to prevent re-absorption.
*Sauna, sauna, sauna! If you are serious about detoxification, a sauna is a must have.
35. WART
*Tea tree essential oil applied directly to the wart 2-3 times a day with a cotton swab has been said to be a very effective means of wart removal. It is recorded to be effective within 10 days.
*Protecting the skin and surrounding skin with Vitamin E and preparing a mash of garlic to apply directly after the Vitamin E application is known to cause a blister on the wart which will fall off within a week.
*Calendula & St. John’s Wort tea, brewed strongly is said to be an excellent remedy!
Did you know that warts are a common skin virus caused by the Human Papillomavirus or HPV?
There are over 100 strains of HPV, some that cause genital warts, some that cause hand warts, and some strains cause both!
You can be introduced to the HPV virus by shaking hands, sharing towels, or touching an inanimate object where another wart sufferer has been.
You can prevent the HPV virus from spreading by washing your hands and practicing safe sex.
HPV is more likely to cause warts after it has come into contact with skin that has been scratched or damaged.
36. WOUND CLEANING & HEALING
*Turmeric has been said to be a very helpful cleaning and healing herb to apply directing to a wound that does not require medical attention.
*Honey, when applied in a small amount directly to the wound after cleaning, is known to be an effective healing agent. Cover with a cotton bandage after honey application.
*Tea tree oil is a disinfectant and can minimize scar tissue to wounds.
*Oil of lavender kills germs and can increase tissue growth to promote healing when applied directly!
If herbal medicine is a part of how you live and heal, you'll want to get your free samples of my herbal books. Search Wendy Rae in Amazon or click to get a free sample on the right sidebar of your computer screen. (May not be visible on mobile devices.) Thank you for reading!
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