Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies

Discover how cayenne pepper promotes hair growth, why cranberry juice is a good treatment for asthma attacks, how to make a potent juice to flush out fat, how to make your own deodorants and perfumes, what herbs will get fleas off your pet, how to keep cut flowers fresh longer… the remedies go on and on!

Grab this book and a cup of chamomile tea, and discover from a Master Herbalist more than 800 remedies that will help you build a balanced relationship with nature and your inner self.

(From the Back Cover)

Grandmother’s Wisdom Returns

The stress and strain of daily life leaves us all vulnerable to “dis-ease” in any of its many manifestations.  So we run to the pharmacy counter for a quick fix of antacids, antihistamines, laxatives. We reach for the coffee pot to give us energy, for a glass of wine to calm us down. Much of what we consider “healing” only stresses our bodies further in the long run, while adding a strain on our pocketbooks.

Why complicate life more when there are hundreds of simple solutions–natural, time-tested solutions that cost a mere fraction of over-the-counter remedies? What worked for great-grandpa can work for you today. got a stomachache? Try brown sugar or a raw carrot.  A stuffy nose? Try garlic, apple cider vinegar, or pack your feet in ice cubes. Relax with a cup of lettuce tea, relieve menstrual cramps with red raspberry juice, ease sore muscles with buttermilk, banish dandruff with parsley. These home remedies may sound crazy but they work!

Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies gives you more than you could ever imagine.  Along with remedies to make you feel better, you’ll find recipes for quick maple syrup, chickweed pancakes, corn coffee from the Iroquois, and much more.  You’ll find easy home-care hints that include a natural ant repellent that won’t harm pets and an amazing way to clean wallpaper with white bread. There are even intriguing activities for children.  Snowed in? Make homemade finger-paints and keep them occupied for hours.

There is beauty and majesty in natural simplicity, and there are more than 800 ways to simplify your life. Many of the ingredients required already await in your own kitchen cabinet! Others can be found in your supermarket, local health food store, or thorugh mail order companies listed in the back of the book.

This is one book that won’t collect dust on the shelf.  In fact, there’s probably a remedy in here that you’ll want to try right now!

(From Inside Cover)

This Book Can Show You How To:

• Create an herbal love bath
• Get rid of your cold quickly
• Give your skin an herbal rejeuvenation
• Calm your nerves & get rid of headaches
• Make your own flavored coffees
• Treat insect bites and stings
• Bring your blood pressure down naturally
• Make a tonic for your pet
• Use natural insect repellents
• Make your own furniture polish
• Treat arthritis naturally
• And much, much more!

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

General Principles of Herbs
Beauty Preparations
Hair Care
Skin Care
Colds and Chest Compounds
Tonics and Digestion
Ear, Eye, Nose and Throat Complaints
Headaches and Sedatives
Diuretics and Bowel Complaints
Blood Disorders, Wounds, and Arthritis
Preparations of Salves, Tinctures, Syrups and Capsules
Pet Care and Garden Tips
Household and Family Tips
Harvesting the Herbs and Preparing Your Own Herbal Medicine Chest
Common and Scientific Names of Herbs
Glossary
Bibliography
Index

This book was required reading for my “Home Remedies and Simples” course at Clayton College. It is wonderful reference, and I keep a copy in my personal library. The book is a very easy read and totally amazed me with the number of home remedies it contained.  Many times were were several different remedies to try for the same ailment!  I also really liked the fact that many of the remedies could be made with items I already had in my pantry.  I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about the “Lettuce Tea” being a natural sedative, but it actually did work!  The book can be listed as by Jude C. Williams or Jude C. Todd, both are the same author.

The following is a list of some of the articles for which I used this book as a reference:

Heal That Throat With Homemade Herbal Lozenges!

How to Dry and Store Herbs – It’s Quick, Easy, and Inexpensive!

Make it Fresh! How to Make Dandelion Tea and Cook Dandelion Greens

Self-Healing With Common Household Items

 Order the book, JUDE’S HERBAL HOME REMEDIES: NATURAL HEALTH, BEAUTY & HOME-CARE SECRETS by Jude C. Williams, Master Herbalist:

(sales tax will be added for TN residents)

JUDE’S HERBAL HOME REMEDIES: NATURAL HEALTH, BEAUTY & HOME-CARE SECRETS by Jude C. Williams, Master Herbalist. First Edition. Fifth Printing, 1995. ISBN# 087542869X. Paperback, 297 pages. List Price: $12.95 US, $18.50 CAN.

The copy for sale in the LuminEarth.com Product Shop is a used paperback in good condition. The cover is moderately worn with some light creasing and edge wear. The binding is tight and the text is clean with no underlining or hi-lighting of text. The pages are lightly tanned with age, and the outside edges contain a small amount of usage staining.

(This book is also available on Amazon.com. Click here to view this book on Amazon.com)

From time immemorial man has relied on plants to treat sicknesses and sooth aches and pains. The same herbs, trees, and shrubs employed by ancient peoples have continued to be valued through the ages–by Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, by apothecaries an physicians in the Middle Ages and later, by the settlers who came to North America, by the Indians who met them here, and even by our own grandparents. Many of these plants are still used today; nearly half of all medicines currently prescribed are derived from members of the plant kingdom.

Over the ages, many magical and mystical powers were ascribed to such plants. Occasionally these beliefs were mere superstitions; more commonly they were based on keen observation. For although people knew that certain plants had indisputable healing powers, they could not explain how the plants’ medicinal powers worked, and so attributed them to supernatural forces. Today we understand many of the underlying chemical and physical principles that account for the medicinal properties of plants. Yet plants still do possess a magical quality–their beauty and the astonishing variety of their forms. This book is your guide to the wonderful world of magical, medicinal plants. -The Editors

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PLANTS IN MYTH AND MAGIC

ABC’S OF PLANTS

• Finding Plants in the Wild
• Making Your Own Herbarium
• The Anatomy of Plants
• Nature’s Chemical Industry
• About Plant Names

PLANTS, PEOPLE AND MEDICINE

GALLERY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS

POISONOUS PLANTS

GROWING AND USING HERBS

• Growing Herbs
• Cooking With Herbs
• Herb Crafts
• Herbs for Beauty
• Herbs for Health

I love this book–it is a wonderful resource for plant identification and use!  I keep a copy in my personal library.  The “Gallery of Medicinal Plants” contains color photographs and paintings of over 200 American herbs.  The paintings point out the different plant details (stem, root, leaf, etc.) to help you identify the plant in the wild.  There is also a full color photo of each plant in its natural habitat and a description of where it is found, how it grows, and what type of environment it grows in.  The book also tells how the plant was used by the ancients–along with its magic and myths, as well as how it is being used or studied medicinally today.

Order the book, MAGIC AND MEDICINE OF PLANTS by The Editors of Reader’s Digest:

(sales tax will be added for TN residents)

MAGIC AND MEDICINE OF PLANTS by The Editors of Reader’s Digest. Hardcover: 464 pages. Publisher: Reader’s Digest; 4th Printing April 1990 edition (1990). ISBN-10: 0895772213. ISBN-13: 978-0895772213. Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1 inches.

The copy for sale in the LuminEarth.com Product Shop is a used hardcover in excellent condition. The cover shows negligible wear and looks new.

(This book is also available on Amazon.com. Click here to view this book on Amazon.com)

This book was created, written, and checked by home gardening experts and includes:

• Growing Guide: Complete Growing Instructions For 155 Herbs
• Garden Design: Tips and Techniques for Designing Herb Gardens
• How to Use Herbs: Projects Using Herbs for Cooking, Health, and Fragrance

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Living With Herbs

• Plant Types
• Plant Parts
• Common Herbs and Their Uses

Growing and Preserving

• Preparing Soil
• Getting Started
• Care
• Pruning
• Propagation
• Growing Herbs Indoors
• Harvesting and Preserving Herbs

Desiging With Herbs

• Formal Gardens
• Informal Gardens
• Theme Gardens
• Container Gardening
• Ornamental Herbs

Using Herbs in the Kitchen

Using Herbs for Health and Beauty

Making Herbal Remedies

• Choosing Herbs for common Ailments
• Facial Care
• Body Care

Using Herbs For Fragrance

• Using Fragrant Herbs

Choosing Herbs

• Herb Selection Guide

I really like this book, and keep a copy in my personal library.  There are many sharp, full color photos and examples on almost every page, and color photos for each herb which really helps with herb identification.  The photos of the garden plans are beautiful, providing inspiration for planting at home.  The book also contains some very cool herbal cooking recipes, such as Italian Herb Blend, Thai Herb Blend, Herb Blend for Soup, and also recipes for Herb Vinegars, Herb Cheeses, Herb Mustards, Herb Jellies, Herb Cordials, and Herb Teas and Drinks.  The medicinal herb section is a great start for the budding herbalist.

Order the book, ORTHO’S ALL ABOUT HERBS by Maggie Oster:

(sales tax will be added for TN residents)

ORTHO’S ALL ABOUT HERBS by Maggie Oster. Paperback: 96 pages.Publisher: Ortho; 1st edition (January 15, 1999). Language: English. ISBN-10: 089721420X. ISBN-13: 978-0897214209. Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.1 x 0.4 inches.

The copy for sale in the LuminEarth.com Product Shop is a used paperback in excellent condition. The book looks new, there is negligible wear to the cover and no writing inside. There is a very small marker marking on bottom outside pages of the book.

(This book is also available on Amazon.com. Click here to view this book on Amazon.com)

White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Names:  Eastern White Pine, Northern Pine, Northern White Pine, Pin Blanc, Pinus strobus, Soft Pine, Weymouth Pine, Weymouths Keifer, Weymouthtall, White Pine

Appearance:  The White Pine (Pinus strobus) is a coniferous evergreen tree.  It’s trunk is tall and stright and the needles are blue-green.  Young trees are conical shaped, but as the trees age they develop wind-swept, horizontal, upturning branches.  This tree is easily identified by counting the needles in the needle-cluster bundles.  The Eastern White Pine is the only pine native to eastern North America that contains five needles per bundle.

Edible:  The Micmac Indians used the bark to make beverage and the Ojibwa used the young staminate catkins (the slim, cylindrical flower cluster, with inconspicuous or no petals that kind of resembles a “kitten’s tail”) for food and stewed them in with meat. They reportedly have a sweet flavor and do not taste like pine pitch.

A Russian writer says to use needles from 1 year old pine tree. Use 2 oz of washed needles. Grind them. Steep in 2 or 3 cups of poured boiling water. Let cool and steep in cool place for 2 hours. Strain, add honey and lemon to taste and drink. Loses vitamins if stored. Lots of C. 5X that of lemon juice. (Mama’s Home Remedies by Svetlana Konnikova)

-Cindy Moonrose, Eatable Weed Walks & Plant Classes

White Pine (Pinus strobus) has five needles per cluster.

I personally like to use white pine needles to make tea.  The taste is sweet and a bit piney, and tastes very good sweetened with honey. It is a wonderful way to get vitamins A and C, as well as all of the immune-boosting and detoxifying medicinal benefits as used by the Native American Indians.

Becki’s Recipe for Pine Needle Tea (Decoction)

• 1 gallon filtered or spring water
•  3 cups chopped pine needles
•  honey

In a large pot combine water and pine needles. Boil for 10 minutes, simmer until cool. Strain and sweeten to taste with honey. (This is technically a “decoction” because the needles are boiled.)

For convenience, I gather pine needles, chop, and fill a large ziploc bag full of the chopped needles and store them in the freezer. This makes it very easy to access the needles and to measure for making tea. To obtain the most benefit from the needles, it is best to pick the young needles located at the ends of the branches.

Note:  Always make sure you positively identify the pine tree before making pine needle tea!  Some pines are poisonous, such as Yew, Norfolk Pine, and Ponderosa Pine.

White pine needles are great in a vinegar! Take any size jar (with plastic lid) fill it with pine needles and then pour apple cider vinegar over it to fill bottle. Let sit for six weeks and it will be ready to use. I learned this technique from Susun Weed. Here is a link to her page on how to make vinegars: http://www.wisewomantradition.com/empoweringwomen/2009/03/making-springtime-wild-herbal-vinegars.html

-Cathy Webster

Medicinal:  Native Americans utilized White Pine for many medical ailments.  It has been said that Native Americans treated 80% of their medical ailments using pine.   Pine has been shown to bring relief to conditions such as fatigue, heart ailments, heart disease, kidney ailments, sclerosis, and varicose veins.  It has even been shown to improve eyesight!  Cancer patients drink pine needle tea to ease nausea, boost the immune system, and as a strengthening tonic.

Bark of the White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Bark: Native Americans used a decoction take internally for coughs, a poultice of wetted inner bark applied externally to the chest for strong colds,  a poultice of trunk of a young tree applied esternally to cuts and wounds, a decoction of raw bark was taken internally for rheumatism, steam from a decoction of raw bark inhaled for head colds, decoction of bark used externally for skin eruptions and scabs, and raw bark was taken internally for rheumatism, to prevent typhoid, and relieve stomach cramps.

Needles:  Native Americans used a poultice of needles bound externally to heal broken bones, needles were burned in the fall and the smoke used to fill the house and prevent all sickness, decoction of needles used used internally for coughs, colds and rheumatism, an infusion of young trees was taken internally as a blood tonic, decoction of needles taken internally to prevent scurvy.  Pine needles are very high in vitamin C and vitamin A (beta-carotene).  The needles were used to keep the early settlers alive during the first winter by preventing scurvy.

Scientists area currently exploring the medical uses of pine needles. Research is being done using pine needles as an antioxidant, antidepressant, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory.  Pine is also being studied for boosting the immune system, strengthening the heart, reducing triglycerides, treating Alzheimer’s disease, depression, anxiety, and dementia. A wonderful writeup on this can be found in The Amazing All-Purpose Pine on the website Dave’s Garden.

Branches of the White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Pitch (Sap, Gum): Native Americans used a poultice of pitch applied externally to felons and other similar inflammations, applied externally to boils to draw out pain and inflammation, used internally for coughs, colds and boils, the pitch was chewed for coughs, and boiled gum taken internally for sore throats.

White Pine (Pinus strobus) was extensively used by many Indians. New England tribes boiled the needles in water or maple syrup and drank this tea to prevent scurvy and to relieve coughs and colds. These needles contain five times more vitamin C than an equal amount of lemons, and they are also a rich source of vitamin A. Just chewing the freshly picked needles is very beneficial. The Obibway Indians used the seeds to flavor their cooking. The Iroquois Indians ate the sweet inner bark.

-Native Harvests: American Indian Wild Foods and Recipes by E. Barrie Kavasch

Sources:

• Kavasch, E. (2005). Native Harvests: American Indian Wild Foods and Recipes. Mineola: Dover Publications.
• Moerman, D. (1998). Native American Ethnobotany. Portland: Timber Press.
• Walker, B. (2011). Pine Needle Tea. Dave’s Garden. Extracted December 4, 2011 from http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/3126/

Visit our FREE Online Herbal Materia Medica

Visit our FREE Online Guide to Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants

The LuminEarth Library

Here is a list of some the books used in our research and experimentation. Enjoy!

• A Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants: Eastern and central North America (Peterson Field Guide)
• Great Smoky Mountains Wildflowers: When and Where to Find Them by William Hutson
• Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places by “Wildman” Steve Brill
• Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies: Natural Health, Beauty & Home Care Secrets by Jude C. Williams, M.H.
• Ortho’s  All About Herbs by Maggie Oster
• Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar
• Secrets of the Chinese Herbalists by Richard Lucas
• Sunset Herbs:  An Illustrated Guide by The Editors of Sunset Magazine
• The Forager’s Harvest:  A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting and Preparing Edible Wild Plants by Samuel Thayer
• The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White, M.D.
• The Herbal Home Remedy Book: Simple Recipes for Tinctures, Teas, Salves, Tonics and Syrups by Joyce A. Wardwell
• The Natural Physicians’s Healing Therapies: Proven Remedies Medical Doctors Don’t Know by Mark Stengler, ND
• The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine by Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D.
• The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.
• Wildflowers of the Land Between the Lakes Region, Kentucky and Tennessee

WHAT IS AN HERBAL TINCTURE?

 In Medicine  a tincture is an alcohol based extract of leaves or other plant material, or solution of a non-volatile substance (like iodine).  In Herbology, tinctures are potent, alcohol based, liquid extracts made using fresh plant material in liquid base such as vodka, brandy, vegetable glycerin, or even apple cider vinegar (all of which are safe for human consumption).

 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TINCTURE AND AN EXTRACT?

The terms are often used interchangeably by herbalists.  The pharmacological definition of  a tincture is a liquid herbal made using most often alcohol as the solvent,  but occasionally glycerin, vinegar and water.  (If a solvent other than alcohol is usede used, the tinctures will not store indefinitely like tinctures made with alcohol.)  The pharmacological definition of an extract the concentrated substance obtained by dissolving a drug in some solvent, as ether or alcohol, and then evaporating the preparation.  In this instance, extracts are much more concenrated than tinctures.

But again, please note that many herbalists use these terms interchangably.  Sometimes herbalist refer to a tincture as a liquid herbal made using alcohol as the solvent and refer to extracts as a liquid herbal using oil as the solvent.

It is always best to clarify this when purchasing tinctures and extracts, if concentration of the herb is a concern for you.

Click Here for Commonly Used Herbology Terms and Defintions

WHY MAKE EXTRACTS AND TINCTURES?

• Extracts and Tinctures are more powerful and last longer than dried herbs.
• It is much cheaper than buying ready made herbal products.
• You can make approximately one quart of your own extract or tincture for the price of a few ounces of tincture at retail stores.
• You can control the quality of the product you are making by starting with herbs you collect yourself or purchase through a reputable source. You are also ensured of the purity of the final product.
• You can custom-make special combination formulas.
• There is something to be said about getting involved in your own health. Some herbalists say that you benefit by absorbing some of the herb through the skin and from the aroma.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN HERBAL TINCTURES

THE ITEMS YOU WILL NEED:

1. Dried or fresh herbs. (Fresh herbs are the best – one of the advantages of tincturing yourself is that you can preserve the fresh attributes of the plant.  If you are using fresh herbs, pick through them removing any damaged or dirty parts, but don’t wash them.)  Click here to view our Materia Medica.  Click here to see a list of easy-to-find herbs useful for making tinctures.
2. 80 -100 proof vodka or rum (NEVER use rubbing, isopropyl or wood alcohol!!!)  ( I like using 100 proof vodka.  “100 proof” means it is exactly half water and half alcohol. This makes figuring dosages easy as most  herbal dosages are based on the assumption that a tincture was made at 50% – 1/2 water, 1/2 alcohol.  Also, tinctures made using alcohol as the solvent  last indefinitely.   If you are concerned about ingesting the alcohol, Rosemary Gladstar recommends placing the bottle of tincture in boiling water for 1-2 minutes which will remove about 1/2 the alcohol.)
3. Wide-mouthed glass jars with lids (mason jar or equivalent).
4. Unbleached cheesecloth or muslin.
5. Labels and markers.

 MAKE THE TINCTURE:  STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Chop herbs finely.
2. Pour the amount of herb you desire into the glass jar and slowly pour in the alcohol or other menestrum until the herbs are entirely covered. Then add an inch or two of additional liquid.
3. Seal the jar tightly so that the liquid cannot leak or evaporate. Put the jar in a dark area or inside a paper bag and let the herbs liquid soak (macerate) for 4-6 weeks. (The longer the better).
4. Shake the jar every day during the maceration period of 4-6 weeks. This keeps the herbs from packing down on the bottom of the jar and helps to extract their herbal properties. Some believe it brings some of the old “medicine making” magic back into the process — you can sing to your tincture jars, play special music, perform Reiki or other energy procedures…what ever your imagination or intuition inspires you to do!
5. When ready to bottle, strain the herbs from the menestrum through a large strainer lined with cheesecloth or muslin. Save the liquid, which is now a potent tincture, and pour into another jar or glass bowl. Squeeze the saturated herbs, extracting the remaining liquid until no more drips appear, pouring this in with the previously strained tincture. Compost the herbs. Rebottle into dark colored bottles or jars and label appropriately.
6. Store in a cool, dark place out of reach of children. The tinctures will keep almost indefinitely.

ADDITIONAL TIPS ON EXTRACTS AND TINCTURES

• If you are using dried herbs, plan to use 1 part herb to 3 parts menestrum.  If you are using fresh herbs, plan to use 1 part herb to 1 part menestrum.  (More menestrum is needed with dried herbs, as they will rehydrate while macerating.)
• If using fresh herbs, running the herbs through a blender with the menestrum can more finely chop the herbs and help to extract the properties more thoroughly and quickly. 
• You should plan to start your tinctures on the day of the new moon and let them sit at least 2 weeks until the full moon – this adds a natural drawing power.
• 200 grams dried or 300 grams of fresh herbs (chopped) to one liter of liquid is needed.  Some herbalists use a measurement of 1 part herb to 3 parts liquid. For exact tincture ratios, please consult a herbal textbook.
• Rum helps hide the taste of bitter herbs.
• Distilled water, vinegar or glycerol can be used to make nonalcoholic tinctures.
• Standard dosage is 1 teaspoon, 1-3 times daily, diluted in tea, juice or water.
• A  wine press or juicer may be used to extract liquid from the herbs.
• Several herbs can be combined into a tincture formula.

Experiment and have fun!

Sources:

• Gladstar, R. (2008). Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing.
• Herbal Tincture Recipe for Aromatherapy/Skin Care. AromaWeb.com. Extracted July 22, 2010 from http://www.aromaweb.com/recipes/herbaltincturesrecipe.asp
• Making Herbal Tinctures. Herbal Remedies Info.  Extracted July 22, 2010 from http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com/tinctures.html
• Satchell, M. “How to Make Your Own Herbal Tincture from Any Loose Herb” extracted from http://www.kcweb.com/herb/tincture.htm

Recommended Reading

• Ortho’s  All About Herbs by Maggie Oster
• Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar
• Secrets of the Chinese Herbalists by Richard Lucas
• Sunset Herbs:  An Illustrated Guide by The Editors of Sunset Magazine
• The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White, M.D.
• The Natural Physicians’s Healing Therapies: Proven Remedies Medical Doctors Don’t Know by Mark Stengler, ND
• The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine by Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D.
• The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.

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Mother Nature has blessed us with many wonderful gifts. Herbs that offer food and support to our heart and cardiovascular system are one of those blessings.  Below you will find details on one of our favorite herbal tinctures that has been used successfully by many of our friends and family members. We trust that you will find great use for the recipe yourself and would love to hear your thoughts and experiences if you would like to share them.

Tincture Ingredients: Hawthorne Berry, Garlic Bulb, Cayenne Pepper, Red Clover Blossom, Cactus Grandiflorus Stem and Flower, Motherwort Herb, Valerian, Ginger Root, Turmeric, Kelp Flakes

Herbs’ Properties and Actions within the Body

This blend may also serve as help with balancing high blood pressure in case that the condistion is being caused or worsened by effects of stress, increased serum levels of cholesterol, athero- or arteriosclerosis, anxiety, worry, and/or obesity.  Herbs chosen for this formula offer benefits and help with one or more of these causes.

Herb Properties

Hawthorne Berry has anti-spasmodic, sedative, and soothing properties. It can be of great help in treatment of high or low blood pressure, arrhythmia, and nervous insomnia.

It has also been found to help remove cholesterol along with relieving hypertension. Hawthorn Berry provides nutritive support to the heart and circulatory system by helping

address damage of atherosclerosis. According to Mowrey (1986), hawthorn berry helps lower the blood pressure and reduce burden placed on the heart through peripheral vasodilation (p.137).

Garlic Bulb has long been known to help bring down high blood pressure but it also has beneficial effects on the course of heart disease resulting from atherosclerosis.

Garlic also helps block biosynthesis of cholesterol which helps bring down serum levels of cholesterol. It also helps expand vessel walls adding to its hypotensive activity.

Cayenne Pepper is a powerful stimulant that has been used internally to help equalize the blood pressure and insure that the internal functions remain stabilized. According to

Mowrey (1986), Cayenne helps regulate cholesterol levels, provides nutritive support to the heart and circulatory system which is what we want when faced with hypertension and results of atherosclerosis (p. 12). There is also analysis of Capsicum Annuum which found that it contains the most natural Vitamin E of all edible plants which is in a very stable form. This herb also has a very significant amount of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) naturally balanced with Vitamin E which could be of significant importance for its regenerative and healing effects on the heart (http://www.herballegacy.com).

Red Clover Blossom is relaxant, expectorant, diuretic and blood cleansing. It also appears to help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol and reduce the buildup of plaque that causes heart disease (Mt Rose, 2008).

Cactus Grandiflorus has been known for centuries as an excellent heart and nerve tonic which does not contain cardiac glycosides (Smith, 2008). It helps in cases of cardiac weakness, poor circulation, and fear.

Motherwort Herb is a cardiac tonic shown to be hypotensive, sedative and antispasmodic. It helps calm palpitations and normalizes heart function in general. Ancient recipes use it for relief of anxiety as it has sedative properties pacifying to the nervous system (Mowrey, 1986).

Valerian has sedative, anticonvulsive, hypotensive, tranquilizing, and anti-aggressive properties. It helps suppress and regulate the autonomic nervous system. It is also useful in cases of headaches, insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, menstrual problems, nervous stomach, and hysteria (Mt Rose, 2008).

Ginger Root has powerful stimulating effects that can increase overall circulation. It also helps reduce serum cholesterol levels and has been shown as a good cardio tonic in several studies (Mowrey, 1986).

Turmeric is known as main anti-inflammatory in Ayureveda, but it also has antioxidants that help fight atherosclerosis and curcumin which helps prevent hardening of the arteries in people with diabetes. Like garlic, turmeric has a long list of medicinal properties in addition to those mentioned here (Mt Rose, 2008).

Kelp, according to Mowrey (1986.), has nutritive, antibiotic and hypotensive properties, of which the hypotensive property is the most important in this formula (p. 139).

Possibility of side effects

Because of possible interactions of Red clover blossom it is advised to avoid this formula when using blood thinning medication. Because of possible interactions of Motherwort herb it would be best to consult a physician when person is using heart medication. Not recommended to use during pregnancy.

Method of preparation and delivery

Put all herbs into a blender. Add enough 100 proof vodka to cover the herb material. Blend for 1 minute. Pour your mixture into a glass jar and screw the lid on.

Keep the jar in dark cool place and shake every day two to three times. After 14 days, strain the liquid and pour into brown glass bottle with a dropper.

8 Parts Hawthorne Berry + 4 Part Garlic Bulb + 1 Part Cayenne Pepper + 1 Part Red Clover Blossom + 1 Part Cactus Grandiflorus Stem and Flower + 1 Part Motherwort Herb + 1 Part Valerian + 1 Part of Ginger Root + 1 Part of Turmeric + 1/4 Part Kelp Flakes.

Note: This tincture can be ordered at http://bodyandmindstl.com/specialoffer.html under the name Cardio Support Tonic. We hope you will try the recipe yourself, but if for some reason you would rather have it prepared for you it can also be ordered at  http://www.bodyandmindstl.com/store/products/Cardio_Support_Tonic-23-0.html

Tincturing in the above described manner offers a process very similar to folk method described by James Greene, but one that is simple and easy enough for beginner herbalist to make at home. This method of preparation accomodates for more people to have access to the formula in regards to costs and accessibility. Tincture formulation is chosen to accommodate for intake of high enough concentration in a convenient and highly absorbable liquid form. Like most herbal tinctures daily intake is suggested for best results.

It is my hope that this recipe will inspire you to try preparing your own herbal formula – whether using this specific recipe or creating your own.

As always, please feel free to email any of the questions we may be of assistance with.

In Health, Abundance, Love, and Light, 

Daniela Sales 
daniela@bodyandmindstl.com 
Reiki Master Teacher and Wellness Consultant
The Avokado Studio of Arts for Creative Living
http://bodyandmindstl.com 

FREE Herbal Remedy Recipe every month! Sign up for our email newsletter at http://bodyandmindstl.com  

223 S Kirkwood, Suite C
St Louis, MO 63122
P: 314 599 3649 

Walk In Hours: 

Mon – Fri 9am to Noon 
Mon, Wed, Fri 5pm to 8pm 
Sat 10am to 1pm 
Other times by appointment only. Please email or call to schedule.

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

References:

Dr Christopher’s Herbal Legacy. (2004). Cayenne as Medicine and Current Findings. Retrieved June 03, 2008, from  http://www.herballegacy.com/Medical_&_Findings.html

Green, J. (2002). The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook – A Home Manual. Berkley: Crossing Press

HerbalEd.org (2002). Single Herb Extracts – Cactus Grandiflorus. Retrieved June 08, 2008, from http://www.herbaled.org/THM/Singles/cactus.html

Mountain Rose Herbs Inc. (2000). Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs and Spices. Retrieved June 08, 2008, from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn

Mowrey, D. B. (1986). The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. Lincolnwood: Keats Publishing

Shillington, I. (2005). Data Pack for Cleanses and More. Clearwater: Organic Solutions

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Stinging Nettle
Botanical name: Urtica dioica

Stinging Nettle is often used to reduce inflammation in allergic responses, arthritis and lupus. A favorite today of many herbalists in the treatment of high blood pressure.

Being very high in iron, chlorophyll and vitamin C, it is also a good tonic for treating anemia, especially if used as an infusion over many weeks.

Nettle is very nourishing to the whole system, specifically the adrenals and kidneys. It’s also a helpful uterine tonic. The high chlorophyll and mineral content are good for the hormonal system.

The roots are used for treating hay fever. In low doses, the root extract stimulates the production of T cells, which help control the immune cells causing the allergic reaction, and will actually rid you of allergies.

Medical Uses and Benefits of Nettles (Stinging)
Botanical name: Urtica dioica

• A highly nutritive herb with a broad range of actions.
• Nettles have an alkalizing effect upon the body.
• Used to increase circulation.
• A specific for arthritis and rheumatism.
• Great for the joints.
• Used in pain and inflammation issues.
• One of the few herbs for the thyroid gland.
• A strong detoxifier of the skin.
• Being alkaline it neutralizes acids (like uric and sulfuric acids).
• Somewhat of a haemostatic (stops bleeding).
• Feeds the body nutrition, especially potassium and iron (although it is also full of minerals).
• Useful in circulation issues, somewhat of a vasodilator.
• Promotes the flow of urine and is useful for kidney stones.
• Shrinks swollen tissues.
• Excellent for pregnancy, nutrition, and for anti-abortive issues.
• Used in cases of bronchitis especially asthma, emphysema and C.O.P.D.
• Nettles are an expectorant (removes mucus) and have adaptogenic properties in aiding the body to build up immunity to allergies.
• Used for anemia.
• A great blood purifier and body regulator.

Note: This tea is wonderful for children as well. A couple yummy ways of adminstering the tea to children is to use the tea for the water in jello or make popcicles. Add a little Lemon Balm (Melissa) to the popcicles with sweetner for a lemony taste. Kids love it!

Jyll Reneé, Master Herbologist
765.644.0312
jyllrenee@comcast.net

Three Locations:

Home Office
45 Cambridge court
Anderson, Indiana 46012

Healthy Living Therapeutics
6252 W. Kilgore Ave
Muncie, IN 47304

Days Healthy Living
1110 S. Peru Street
Cicero, Indiana 46034

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

Western Herbology or Simpling

Herbologists have been called many things throughout history, including witches. I consider myself a “barefoot practioner” this simply means that the first place I look for a remedy is in the kitchen or yard. “Simpling” refers to local plants work best on local people. The art of simpling means that you will discover a handful of herbs and know them inside and out. Then we are going to use Native American Spirit medicine or Totem Medicine to determine how to apply each herb.

 Native American Spirit Medicine is going to help us look at the herb characteristics to select those herbs.

• Wolf – Wolf medicine are herbs that pack up on disease and devour it. This would be something like an infection or mucous that you want to attack symptoms for immediately, this is very similar to prescription drugs.
• Eagle - Teas are considered eagle medicine, because a tea can swoop in and affect a change on the body but continues to soar for long periods of time. Rooibos will swoop in to correct your digestion, calm down your adrenals but as it absorbs into the body will continue to make changes like correcting cholesterol and regulating blood flow.
• Turtle – this would similar to taking a vitamin, these herbs get deep into the shell of the body and work to regain balance. An example would be Milk Thistle to help rejuvenate the liver.
• Rabbit – aromatherapy, huffing crystals*, smudging or smoking herbs. Rabbit medicine races in to help heal a condition but the herbs don’t hang around long.

*huffing crystals simply means – place a few menthol crystals in your hands and rub your hands together, put crystals back in bag then smell hand. This is a simple way to open the lungs for better breathing.

Watch for something on Smudging in the near future!

Jyll Reneé, Master Herbologist
jyllrenee@comcast.net

Three Locations:

Home Office
45 Cambridge court
Anderson, Indiana 46012

Healthy Living Therapeutics
6252 W. Kilgore Ave
Muncie, IN 47304

Days Healthy Living
1110 S. Peru Street
Cicero, Indiana 46034

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

By Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist

Good for anyone with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, any type of circulation, adrenals, varicose veins, weight loss

Pronounced “roy-boss” and means “red bush” in Afrikaans. Studies have shown this tea is comparable to green tea in the amounts of polyphenols it contains. It shows anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activity.

Rooibos is totally pure and natural. It contains no colorants or preservatives.

Rooibos helps delay the aging process! The aging of our bodies is caused by toxic compounds called free radicals which are produced as a by-product of normal cell function. These free radicals attack our healthy cells. Over our lifetime this damage contributes to aging and our immune system weakens.

Rooibos helps to relieve stomach ulcers, nausea, constipation, and heartburn.

Have a cup of Rooibos before you get ready for bed to ensure a good night’s sleep! Rooibos has been found to help with insomnia, disturbed sleeping patterns and headaches. It contains no caffeine and has a relaxing effect on the central nervous system.

Rooibos helps to give you strong bones and teeth because of its calcium, manganese and fluoride content.

Rooibos helps pacify infants with colic, stomach cramps and sleeping problems. Simply mix some Rooibos tea with expressed breast milk or formula. It is 100% natural with no colorants or preservatives. It is a mother’s miracle.

Rooibos contains alpha hydroxy acid and zinc for healthy, smooth skin. This wonder tea is especially useful when applied to skin irritations like itchy skin, eczema, sunburns, diaper rash and acne.

Put used rooibos tea bags in the refrigerator or freezer. After a hard day’s work, put on tired or red eyes to soothe and relax.

Rooibos contains magnesium which is necessary for a healthy nervous system.
Rooibos increases the absorption of iron in the body.

Rooibos contains potassium and copper minerals that are necessary for several metabolic functions.

Rooibos is often prescribed for nervous tension and mild depression as it makes a relaxing sedative.

Rooibos contains no oxalic acid and can therefore be enjoyed by persons suffering from kidney stones.

Rooibos helps with swelling.

Rooibos helps to control your appetite thus can be beneficial in weight loss.
Rooibos makes a great thirst-quencher and sport drink. Because of its mineral content of iron, potassium, zinc, manganese and sodium, it restores the body’s equilibrium after strenuous exercise.

Rooibos is very versatile! Drink it hot or cold, with or without milk, sugar or honey. Add lemon or mix it with fruit juices for a lovely blend. Rooibos tea is also used in cooking and baking. It replaces the liquid content in recipes for soups, marinades, sauces, stews and cakes for added flavor and nutrition.

And Rooibos tastes divine! It is less bitter than most teas.

Jyll Renee Master Herbologist
765-644-0312

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

Ingredients and quantities needed for the Whole Body Tonic:

¼ part Cayenne, 1 part Licorice, 1 part Mullein, 1 part Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng), 1 part Alfalfa, 1 part Gotu Kola, 1 part Ginger, 1 part Lobelia, 1 part Hawthorne Berries, 1 part Kelp, 1 part Nettle leaf, 1 part Gingko, 1 part Saw Palmetto Berries, 1 part Fo-Ti, 1 part Sarsaparilla root 

Preparation:

Using a spice or a coffee grinder, make coarse powder of each herb. Measure and combine all herbs as listed above. To the combined powder add enough slippery elm bark to make up about 10% of the mixture. Slowly add water and mix until your formula achieves consistency of dough. Roll the dough into little balls approximately size of a pea. Dry the herb pills in warm air and store in an air-tight container.

Note: Part refers to measurement by volume (i.e. tablespoon, cup, etc.) 

Overview of Properties for Herbs in the Above Recipe 

Cayenne is one of the finest stimulants (also a good source of calcium and vitamin A) that aid circulation of blood helping bring oxygen and other nutrients to cells in need of repair (www.herballegacy.com). It is a general tonic and is one of the most useful systemic stimulants that strengthens the heart, arteries, capillaries, blood flow, peripheral circulation and nerves (Green, 2000, p. 30). Cayenne will insure the rapid and even distribution of the active principles of the rest of the herbs to critical functional centers of the body (Mowrey, 1986, p. 209).

 Licorice, aside from its numerous medicinal properties on its own, modulates and strengthens the activity of other herbs (Mowrey, 1986, p. 290). Licorice is very beneficial in treating adrenal insufficiency and other glandular problems; but can also safely be added to tonics to alleviate any harsh stimulating aspects some of the bitter herbs may have (Tierra, 1998, p. 231).

Mullein is the perfect glandular food (herballegacy.com). It provides mucilaginous protection to mucous surfaces helping inhibit the absorption of allergens through those membranes (Mowrey, 1986, p. 131). Mullein leaf is an expectorant, antispasmodic, demulcent, and vulnerary that affects lungs and stomach (Tierra, 1998, p. 162). As an expectorant, it is extremely beneficial respiratory remedy that tones the mucous membranes (Green, 2000, p. 33). 

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng) was successfully used in the Soviet Union to ease stress in everyday situations (www.herballegacy.com). Eleuthero is a classic adaptogen that with consistent use produces state of non-specific stress resistance regardless of the stressor, and also improves general resistance to infectious diseases, and reduces damage from radiation (Green, 2000, p. 37). The Chinese recommend Ginseng for anemia, asthma, stomach aches, colds, fevers, colic, depression, dizziness, dropsy, exhaustion, headaches, heart failure, impotence, indigestion, insomnia, lack of appetite, menstrual disorders, nausea, nervous disorders, old age, rheumatism, vascular cramps, and sexual dysfunction (Mowrey, 1986, p. 287). 

Alfalfa has a reputation as an appetite stimulant and vitality augmenter, and as a spring tonic it has no equal (Morey, 1986, p. 291). It is a nutritive and restorative tonic used for wasting, improving digestion and assimilation, increasing vitality and strength (Tierra, 1998, p. 84). 

Gotu Kola is known for promoting the stimulation of the brain and as help with fatigue relief when taken in small amounts (www.herballegacy.com). It may also offer wonderful benefits to the pituitary gland when used with other herbs. Gotu Kola is also a traditional blood purifier, tonic and diuretic (Mowrey, 1986, p. 289). 

Ginger is a stimulant that starts its effect in the capillary, flushing out the “constipated” capillary, driving those wastes into the veins for disposal (www.herballegacy.com). It is a diffusive stimulant that is warming by increasing peripheral circulation (Green, 2000, p. 32). Ginger is of great benefit to the stomach, intestines, and circulation (Tierra, 1986, p. 78). 

Lobelia is like mullein a perfect glandular food (www.herballegacy.com).

Hawthorne Berries are a celebrated cardiac tonic for many centuries that can help in treatment of high or low blood pressure, tachycardia, and arrhythmia; while it is also anti-spasmodic and soothing to nerves (http://www.herballegacy.com). This heart tonic of the first order maintains the heart in a healthy condition as it directly affects the cells of the heart muscle, enhancing both activity and nutrition (Green, 2000, p. 32). 

Kelp is an important general nutritive tonic which is through cultural studies on Japanese intake of Kelp lined to lower  breast cancer rates, less obesity, less heart disease, less respiratory disease, less rheumatism and arthritis, less high blood pressure, less thyroid deficiency, less constipation, and less infectious disease (Mowrey, 1986, p. 208). It has trace amounts of iodine which helps activate thyroid function and is rich in polysaccharides which have known anticancer properties (Tierra, 1998, p. 313).

Nettle leaf is a spring tonic and a general alterative detoxifying agent which clears out waste-products, strengthens the mucosa of the urinary, digestive, and respiratory systems; and also prevents uric acid build up in joints and is extremely helpful in cases of gout, rheumatism, and arthritis (Green, 2000, p. 33).

Gingko is, aside from long list of other applications, used for improving blood circulation to the brain, improving peripheral blood circulation (Tierra, 1998, p. 140).

Saw Palmetto berries are a tonic that may benefit general health and disposition, stimulate appetite and benefit reproductive health (Mowrey, 1986, p. 209). It is a nutritive tonic benefiting reproductive system (Green, 2000, p. 36), and affecting kidney, spleen, and liver (Tierra, 1998, p. 191).

Fo-Ti has been found to reduce hypertension, blood cholesterol levels and the incidence of coronary heart disease, while in China it is used for “liver and spleen weakness”, vertigo, scrofula, cancer, constipation, and insomnia (Mowrey, 1986, p. 288).

Sarsaparilla root is a refreshing herbal tonic for nerves, blood and glands (Mowrey, 1986, p. 286). It is an alterative and anti-inflammatory tonic that affects liver, stomach and kidneys (Tierra, 1998, p. 189).

How to Take the Whole Body Tonic

Because pea-sized herb pills contain about half the dose of a gelatin capsule (Tierra, 1998, p. 26), most benefits would be achieved by prolonged use of 2 to 4 herb pills daily at every meal. It may be helpful to use more during times of poor health or high stress.       

It is my hope that this recipe will inspire you to try preparing your own herbal formula – weather using this specific recipe or creating your own. As always, please feel free to email any of the questions we may be of assistance with. 

In Health, Love, and Light, 

Daniela Sales
Daniela@bodyandmindstl.com 

FREE Herbal Remedy Recipe every month! Sign up for our email newsletter at http://bodyandmindstl.com

The Avokado Studio of Arts for Creative Living

Home of Body&Mind LLC natural products for holistic health and beauty
223 S Kirkwood, Suite C
St Louis, MO 63122
P: 314 599 3649 

Your Personal Resource for Wellness and a Holistic Lifestyle
http://bodyandmindstl.com 

Walk In Hours:
Mon – Fri 9am to Noon
Mon, Wed, Fri 5pm to 8pm
Sat 10am to 1pm

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

References

Green, J. (2002). The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook – A Home Manual. Berkley: Crossing Press

Mowrey, D. B. (1986). The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. Lincolnwood: Keats

Publishing

Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books

Dr Christopher’s Herbal Legacy web site provides information on natural healing with herbs (http://www.herballegacy.com)

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.