45 Useful Herbs for Beginners

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HERBAL MEDICINE CHEST45 Useful Herbs for Beginners

Alfalfa - Eliminates retained water, relieves urinary and bowel problems,helps in treating recuperation of narcotic and alcohol addiction. Useful intreating anemia, fatigue, kidneys, peptic ulcers, pituitary problems, andfor building general health. Eat or juice fresh alfalfa sprouts, or makestea of dried leaves.

Allspice - Used as a paste to soothe and relieve toothache, and as amouthwash to freshen the breath. Do not swallow. Used as a tea for colds,menstrual cramps and stomachaches. Can apply tea to bruises and musclesoreness. Too much can cause nausea, vomiting and even convulsions. To maketea - two teaspoons in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain beforedrinking.

Aloe - The gel of the inner part of an aloe leaf is used to treat burns,skin rashes, and insect bites, as well as chafed nipples from breastfeeding.Apply it to the affected area externally. It aids in healing wounds bydrawing out infection, and preventing infection from starting. The fresh gelis best to use, rather than "stabilized" gels found in the stores. The freshgel was used by Cleopatra to keep her skin soft and young. Break off a pieceof plant cut open and apply the inside gel to the burn or wound, keep it inplace with band- aid or tape.

Apple Cider Vinegar - Some benefits reported are: weight loss & suppressingthe appetite, boosting the immune system, acts as antiseptic and antibiotic,rich source of amino acids & rich in vitamins & minerals, helps digestion & improves metabolism, decreasing cholesterol, arthritis & high bloodpressure, good for circulation & detoxifying the body, stimulates thinking & slowing ageing process. You want to use unprocessed vinegar with the"mother". Look for it in the health food department at the grocery. A gooddaily tonic is, one tablespoon of vinegar with one tablespoon of honey mixedin four ounces of water. Can also use on salads and in salad dressings.

Basil - Used to treat stomach cramps, vomiting, fevers, colds, flu,headaches, whooping cough, and menstrual pains. Chewing fresh basil is alsoused to reduce stomach acid, making it a valuable part of any treatment forulcers, and a valuable addition to any recipe using tomatoes for those withsensitive stomachs. Externally, a basil poultice can be used for insectbites, to draw out the poisons. It has been used in other countries toeliminate worms from the intestines, and the oil from basil leaves isapplied directly to the skin to treat acne. Steep one teaspoon in a cup ofboiling water to make tea. Strain off the leaves.

Black Walnut - The liquid extract from the bark is used to treat dysentery,funguses, ringworm and other skin diseases. The nut is used to promotestrength and weight gain. The ground hull of the nut is used to treat skindiseases, herpes, head and body lice, and internal parasites. Walnut leaftea or compresses are used topically to treat eczema, hives, and boils.Diluted walnut oil is used to treat dandruff. A strong decoction of walnutleaves, painted around doorways and woodwork, will repel ants. To make adecoction simmer leaves in a pot of water until there is only half of thewater left.

Catnip - Is tea effective alone or in herbal remedies for colds, flu,fevers, upset stomach, and insomnia. Particularly good for children withupset stomachs in a very mild infusion. Steep one teaspoon in a cup ofboiling water to make tea. Strain off the leaves.

Cayenne - Also called capsicum, is very effective added to wheat germ orolive oil, for all sorts of arthritis and muscle aches. Remember to washyour hand after applying to skin. Internally it benefits the heart andcirculation. It is also used to normalize blood pressure. It will stopbleeding both externally and internally. Sprinkle a small amount into socksor shoes to warm the feet during the winter months. Keep both capsules andextracts on hand, you will use it allot. A great treatment for the commoncold is to take 2-4 capsules and a hot shower. Then go to bed and keep warm.This will speed up the nasal drainage and help you get over the cold faster.

Celery Seed - Uses are Anti-rheumatic, sedative, urinary antiseptic,increases uric acid secretions, carminative, reduces blood pressure, & anti-fungal. Use as a tea; steep 2 teaspoons for 10 - 20 minutes.

Chamomile - Use the tea for nerves and menstrual cramps. The tea is alsouseful for babies and small children with colds, diaper rash, teething pain,colic, and stomach troubles. Also used to calm the body for inducing sleepin insomniac conditions. It is also a good wash for sore eyes and opensores. May prevent stomach ulcers. If you are allergic to ragweed or thedaisy family you should avoid this herb.

Cilantro & Coriander - Twin herbs that come from the same plant. Cilantro isthe leaves and coriander is the seed. Tea made or either is used to treatdigestive ailments and colic.

Cinnamon - Add cinnamon to other herbal remedies for acute symptoms, as thisherb is a stimulant to other herbs and the body, enabling herbal remedies towork faster. It is also a blood purifier, an infection prevention, and adigestive aid. Cinnamon will help over come flue symptoms. Put some onapplesauce or toast. Do not ingest cinnamon oil.

Clove - A drop of clove oil will stop a toothache when it is applieddirectly to the cavity. It is very warm and stimulating to the system, andis very useful with people who have cold extremities. Cloves will promotesweating with fevers, colds, and flu. Cloves are also safe and effective forrelieving vomiting during pregnancy. It is also a great air freshener.Simmer it with cinnamon and orange peals on the stove.

Comfrey - Great for healing injuries to all parts of the body. A poultice ofcomfrey heals wounds, burns, sores, and bruises. It is a powerful remedy forhealing broken bones and sprains. Soak the injury by placing diaper soakedin the decoction to the area. A poultice would also work well too. Tocounter the effects of osteoporosis take daily soaks in comfrey. Make alarge tea bag by placing a hand full of the leaves in a washcloth andsecuring it with a rubber band, then let it soak in your bath water. It'slike making a giant cup of tea. You can use this method to help heal brokenbones too. For burns mix equal parts of wheat germ oil, & honey, then addenough comfrey powder to thicken it to paste like consistency. For 2nd and3rd degree burns place on burn and change the bandage twice a day, addingmore of the comfrey paste without washing the skin until burn is healed.(Place on bandage not the skin.) You do not want to wash off the new skin.It will look pretty bad but the skin will grow back from under the burn, andthe dead skin is protecting it. Note - Dr. 's BF & C massage oil ishigh in comfrey and good to keep on hand. I have seen it heal bad sprains inas few as three days. BF & C is also good for improving the look of aging orscared skin. Large amounts or dosages of comfrey can cause liver damage, butthere are no problems with using it externally. Used internally, it is bestand safest to use a tea, rather than capsules.

Dandelion - Eaten in salads or made into tea, benefits all functions of theliver. It clears obstructions (such as stones) and detoxifies poisons thatgather in the liver, spleen, and gall bladder. It will also promote healthycirculation. The juice from a broken leaf stem can be applied to warts andpimples, allowed to dry; used for 3 days or so it will dry up the warts. Itis also used to treat premenstrual syndrome, as it is a diuretic. It is arich source of potassium, and contains more vitamin A than carrots.

Dill - Tea of made of a teaspoon of mashed seeds can be is used to treatcolic, gas, and indigestion.Echinacea - It is said that the Native Americans used Echinacea for moremedicinal purposes than any other plant. It can be used for inflammation ofthe throat, gums and mouth, to treat a sore throat, colds and coughs, forcolic, abdominal complaints and the list goes on. It is also used to boostthe immune system. Echinacea products in today's market include; tablets,capsules, tinctures, extracts, dried herb.Ephedra - Useful in weight loss. It works but is not recommended for peoplewith diabetes, glaucoma, heart or blood pressure or thyroid problems. Can beused as a decongestion to clear your head if you have colds, asthma or hayfever.

Eucalyptus - The oil is a powerful antiseptic, clean-crushed leaves can beused on minor cuts & burns to prevent infections. The oil breathed in willhelp clear the sinuses, as will the steam from boiling the leaves. Whenmixed with water or vegetable oils, it makes a good insect repellant. Asmall drop on the tongue eases nausea. Common items that contain eucalyptusare Listerine, Vicks VapoRub, and Hall's Mentho-Lyptus Cough Suppressants.Fennel - Helps to take away the appetite. It is often used as a sedative forsmall children. Can be used in a tea to help with colic. It improvesdigestion, and is very helpful with coughs. It is also used for cancerpatients after radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Enriches and increasesthe flow of milk for lactating women.

Garlic - A powerful natural antibiotic. Good for internal and external uses.It can stimulate cell growth and activity. It can reduces blood pressure inhypertensive conditions. A main advantage to using garlic for its antibioticproperties is that it does not destroy the body's natural flora. It isexcellent for use in all colds, flues and internal infections of the body.The juice can be applied to bandages for minor scrapes and cuts to preventinfection. When ingesting the raw cloves, a sprig of parsley chewedimmediately after will freshen the breath. Taking capsules is the easiestway to use it. You will smell like garlic afterwards.Ginger - Known as a weapon against nausea. It is also an excellent herb touse for strengthening and healing the respiratory system, as well as forfighting off colds and flu. It removes congestion, soothes sore throats, andrelieves nausea, headaches and body aches. Combined with other herbs, itenhances their effectiveness. It is also very effective in combating motionsickness. Recommended during pregnancy for treating morning sickness anddigestive problems, as well as safe to use during pregnancy for colds andsore throats. Ginger tea has been used to start labor in women who are overdue. It doesn't always work.

Horseradish - Grind some of the fresh root into a paste, combine it with acarrier oil, such as olive or almond, and use it to massage away muscularaches, and help loosen chest congestion. It can be used to warm a cold body,and to clear up drippy sinuses. Ivy -The leaves can be used externally as apoultice to treat sores, ulcers, and other skin eruptions.Jasmine - In the orient this tea is drunk for its calming affect, especiallyafter dinner, as well as for its aphrodisiacal qualities. Jasmine oil usedin massage is soothing to the skin, and reported to be an aphrodisiac. It isused in aromatherapy to treat depression and nerve conditions, and as amassage oil for menstrual cramps.

Kelp - Used to strengthen and promote the glands. It controls the thyroidand regulates metabolism. It is a sustainer to the nervous system and thebrain, and is a terrific boost for pregnancy and the developing child. Itcontains over 30 minerals and vitamins. Lavender - Tea made from theblossoms is used as an antidepressant. It is used in combination with otherherbs for a remedy for depression and nervous tension and stress. It is alsoused as a headache remedy. Nice to use in a bath for relaxing.

Lemon Balm - Used to treat children with fever, flu, and colds. In adults,it treats colds, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia, andnervous stomachs. It can also been used as a mild form of Valium. Thecrushed leaves are applied to wounds and insect bites to aid in healing. Theessential oil, also known as , is used in aromatherapy to easedepression.

Licorice - The root is a great source of the female hormone estrogen. It ismost used for calming coughs and chest ailments. It is an important herb touse when recovering from an illness, as it supplies needed energy to thesystem. Can also be used as a remedy for stomach and heart problems,indigestion, and most respiratory ailments. It may also help to normalizeand regulate hormone production. Should not be used by pregnant women as itcan sometimes lead to high blood pressure with prolonged use.

Marigold - This used in a tea is a great first aid remedy. It relievesheadaches, earaches, and reduces fevers. It is excellent for the heart andfor the circulation. It is also used in a poultice to heal wounds andbruises.

Mint - Acts as a sedative on the stomach and strengthens the bowels. Greatfor tummy aches from flue or over eating. Valuable herb for stoppingvomiting during pregnancy. It is gentle enough to use for colic in babies,while aiding in curing colds, flu, and gas. Used with bitter herbs toimprove their taste.Mullein - Terrific narcotic herb that is not addictive or poisonous. It isused as a painkiller and to bring on sleep. Mullein & Lobelia oils added towarm olive oil will help heal and relieve earaches. Also good for relievingchest congestion.

Nutmeg - A small amount of nutmeg, about the size of a pea, can be takenonce daily over a long period (6 months to a year) to relieve chronicnervous problems, as well as heart problems stemming from poor circulation.Added to milk, and baked fruits and desserts, it aids in digestion, andrelieves nausea. Large doses can be poisonous, and may cause miscarriage forpregnant women.

Oak - The ground bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and bleeding.For external use the bark and/or leaves are boiled and then applied tobruises, swollen tissues, wounds that are bleeding, and varicose veins.

Oats - Is a traditional food for those recovering from an illness. It alsosupplies necessary fiber in the diet. Oats made into packs and pastes clearup many skin disorders, such as acne. Makes a soothing bath for chickenpoxes and measles.

Onion - Used externally as an antiseptic. Internally, it can alleviate gaspains, reduce hypertension, and reduce cholesterol. Useful for treating badchest congestion. Bake an onion until soft when cool enough to handle sliceand wrap in a dishtowel or diaper & place on the chest or around the neck.

Oregano - Is also used to promote perspiration as a treatment for colds,flu, and fevers. A tea of oregano is often used to bring on menses andrelieve associated menstrual discomfort. It is also used in baths andinhalations, as well drinking the infusion, to clear lungs and bronchialpassages. Internally and externally it can help alleviate dry itching skin.The essential oil is used to treat viral infections, respiratory ailments,and muscle aches. Pregnant women should not ingest large amounts of oregano.

Raspberry - Red Raspberry is one of the most proven female herbs. Itstrengthens the uterine wall during pregnancy, reduces the pain ofchildbirth, and helps to reduce false labor pains. After childbirth it isused to decrease uterine swelling and cut down on post-partum bleeding. Itis used to ease menstrual cramps and to regulate the flow duringmenstruation. It is also good for vomiting in small children, and dysenteryand diarrhea in infants.

Rose - The hips are very nourishing to the skin, as well as containingvitamin C. It is used as a blood purifier, and for treatment of infections,colds, and flues. Rose hip tea is very nice.

St. swort - Is commonly used to ease depression, headaches, hysteria,neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause. Canalso be useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, and fordirty, septic wounds. It is useful in swellings, abscesses, and bad insectstings. Do not go into the sun if using this herb, as it causes blisteringsunburns, especially in fair-skinned people.

Tea Tree Oil - Wonder oil for skin. It improves healing and stimulatesrejuvenation of the skin to treat a variety of skin problems. The oil alsocontains properties that fight bacterial and fungal infections. Itsantiseptic properties are ideal for healing acne, eczema, cold sores andrashes. Tea Tree Oil kills germs making it especially useful for wounds,cuts, scratches, insect bites, boils and athlete's foot. Tea Tree Oil mayalso be diluted to treat many other ailments. If gargled, it soothes andtreats sore throat, canker sores and laryngitis. Other uses include fightingyeast infections, treating asthma and relieving sinus headaches. Tea TreeOil is a must for your medicine cabinet!

Uva Ursi - Strengthens and tones the urinary tract. It is especially usefulfor kidney infections, bladder infections, and inflammatory disease of theurinary tract. It is used as a diabetes remedy for excessive sugar in theblood. It is used for postpartum women to return the womb to its naturalsize, as well as to prevent infection of the womb after childbirth. Pregnantwomen should not use it.

Valerian - A relaxer, and is very effective for insomnia. It is often usedas a tranquilizer, but it leaves no sluggish effects on the user. It is usedfor nervous tension, pain relieving, strengthening the heart, lowering bloodpressure, menstrual cramps, and for muscle spasms. It should not be takenover a long period of time, as it can cause mental depression in some peopleafter long-term steady use. It is not habit forming.

Violet - Effective tea used in healing internal ulcers. It is used bothinternally and externally for pimples, abscesses, tumors, and swollenglands. It is useful in treating malignant growths as well. Native Americanssoaked corn seed in an infusion of yellow violet to prevent insects fromeating the seeds.

Willow - The bark works like aspirin. In fact, aspirin was derived fromwillow bark. It is also used to cleanse and heal eyes that are infected orinflamed. It is safe to use, and is mild on the stomach and leaves noafter-effects.Harmful Herbs During Pregnancy

Aloe vera-internally: Teratogen; cause birth defects

: induces menstruation, and therefore can cause abortion.barberry

basil: small amounts on food have not been found to be harmful but use care.

Black/Blue Cohosh: Midwives and other practitioners may use these herbs latein pregnancy to strengthen the contractions of labor. These should not beused until about a month before the due date, and then with guidance.bloodroot

buckthorn: Teratogen; cause birth defectscaraway seeds

Cascara Sagrada: Teratogen; cause birth defectscelery seed

Coltsfoot- s risk to the developing fetus' liver.

Comfrey- Taken overlong periods of time it can cause serious liver disease.It is more of a threat to the fetus, which has a small liver. It is totallyinappropriate for internal use during pregnancy. It is safe for externaluse.

Cotton root bark: Teratogen; cause birth defectschinchona

Dong Quai: Teratogen; cause birth defects

Ephedra-This is a uterine stimulant, and it's antihistamine properties couldpromote birth defects.

Teratogen; cause birth defectsErgot fungus

Feverfew- This herb promotes menstruation which in turn can cause the fetusto abort..

Ginger rootGinseng: In pregnancy it can increase general discomfort and because of itsaction on the hormonal system, could potentially cause Teratogen; birthdefects.

Goldenseal: Strong preparations may cause uterine contractions. Which couldresult in abortion of the fetus.Hops: Teratogen; cause birth defectsfresh horseradish

Juniper berries: Teratogen; cause birth defects

Licorice- Like Ginseng, it affects the hormonal system and should be avoidedin medicinal doses, as in a tea during pregnancy. Teratogen; cause birthdefects

liferoot

male fernmarjoramMistletoe: Teratogen; cause birth defectsMotherwortMugwort: Teratogen; cause birth defectsnutmeg

Osha: Teratogen; cause birth defects

Fresh parsley: small amounts on food have not been found to be harmful butuse care.

Pennyroyal: Midwives and other practitioners may use these herbs late inpregnancy to strengthen the contractions of labor. These should not be useduntil about a month before the due date, and then with guidance.

pokeroot: Toxic whether pregnant or not!

Rosemary: small amounts on food have not been found to be harmful but usecare.

Rue: Teratogen; cause birth defectssaffron

sage: small amounts on food have not been found to be harmful but use care.Teratogen; cause birth defects

Sasparilla: Teratogen; cause birth defectssavory

Senna: Teratogen; cause birth defectstarragonsouthernwood

Tansy- Risk to fetus' liver.

thyme: small amounts on food have not been found to be harmful but use care.

thuja Yarrow- These herbs promote menstruation. They may or may not beabortive and should be used with caution. watercress.wormwood

Essential oils- oils extracted from peppermint, cinnamon, and rose areequivalent to pharmaceutical drugs. When inhaled they can have strongeffects, and most promote menstruation.

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