Herbalism is a holistic form of healing that recognizes the close and vital links between body, mind, and spirit. All three elements need to be kept in harmony and balance, because all are essential to our well-being. Spirit is the most difficult concept for many Westerners; the best explanation I’ve heard is from plant spirit medicine expert Eliot Cowan, which I described in my book Holistic Anatomy(2010):
“If you think of all the movements your body makes in an hour, then compare that to where your mind goes in the same time, you can see that the mind is way faster than the body … the mind is simply too fast for the body to grasp. Well, your spirit is to your mind what your mind is to your body—so far beyond the mind that the mind can only now and then get a glimpse of it. Yet many of us have experiences where we come close to feeling our ‘spirit’: highs, peak experiences, moments of deep peace, deep joy and connection, serendipity.”
In treating the “whole person,” herbalism acknowledges that stresses and imbalances in the body will have an effect on the mind and spirit, and vice versa.
Fortunately, Nature offers a vast medicine chest of remedies for all kinds of ailments, disorders, and diseases, upon which we can all draw. Here follows a selection of recipes for various problems of the body, mind, and spirit.
Most of these recipes use weights for dried herb amounts, because for medicines accuracy is particularly important. Many recipes also contain tinctures or mixtures of tinctures; these can be bought from a store, or made following the method in Key Preservation Techniques (see here).
With all of these recipes, consult your healthcare practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. Conditions mentioned here may be transient or superficial, but in some cases they may be a sign of more serious illness, and lingering symptoms should always be investigated.
A note on doses
Adults
The recipes in this book all provide adult doses, as standard.
The standard dose of 1 tsp./5ml of tincture 3 times daily works well for chronic conditions; acute conditions (infections, for example) could warrant up to twice this amount over a shorter period.
See the advice (here) if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a serious or long-lasting health condition.
Children
As a general rule, children from ages 5 to 12 are given 1/4 to 1/2 an adult dose. From ages 12 and up, they can be given an adult dose. That said, common sense should always prevail—some children are small for their age, some are big—and doses can be adjusted accordingly. It is good to use the minimal dose you need to get the desired effect.
Babies
Babies and young children 1–5 years old should not be given tinctures. However, 1–5 tsp. of tea or decoction can be given; 11/2 tsp. of syrups. At the time of writing this book, it is advisable not to give honey to babies under one year old.
Hot Stuff Circulation Stimulant
Feel warmer within minutes as these herbs zap round your bloodstream.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tsp./10ml cayenne (see Hot Cayenne Tincture)
2 tsp./10ml ginger
4 tsp./20ml prickly ash
4 tsp./20ml yarrow
4 tsp./20ml gingko
4 tsp./20ml hawthorn (see Mother of the Heart Tincture)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 3 years.
METHOD
Simply mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Take 1/4–1/2 tsp. in warm water every 3–4 hours as it is needed.
Horse Chestnut & Broom Varicose Vein Lotion
This effective lotion is made in the form of a liniment (see here), so it is easy to rub in over large areas.
INGREDIENTS
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp. infused oil of broom tops (made with 2 tbsp. broom tops to 1/4 cup + 2 tsp. of olive oil, see here)
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml tincture of horse chestnut seeds (see here)
Essential oils:
20 drops rosemary
20 drops cypress
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together in a bottle.
Shake before use. Apply twice daily, massaging a small amount into the legs from ankles upward.
Vein-Building Complex
Courtesy of Louise Idoux
Take internally to back up external treatment of varicose veins.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tbsp./30ml horse chestnut seeds
5 tsp./25ml butcher’s broom
2 tsp./10ml bilberry
2 tsp./10ml gingko
5 tsb./25ml buckwheat (made using leaves and flowers)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Take 1/2–1 tsp. 3 times daily in a little water.
Sinusitis & Infected Teeth Mix
Courtesy of Louise Idoux
A medicine to take internally to help fight infection.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tsp./10ml fresh garlic
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp./40ml echinacea
2 tsp./10ml wild indigo
1 tsp./5ml goldenseal
1 tbsp./15ml myrrh
4 tsp./20ml Pau d’arco
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps indefinitely.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures and bottle.
Take 1 tsp. 3–5 times daily in a little water.
Heart & Blood Pressure Tea
Courtesy of Steve Kippax
Hawthorn helps to improve the efficiency of the heart as a muscle without increasing the oxygen used. Yarrow helps as a mild diuretic and by reducing blood pressure (you will need to take the tea for at least 6–8 weeks to experience this effect). Lime flowers are good as a relaxant, specifically affecting the heart.
INGREDIENTS
Equal parts of the following dried herbs:
hawthorn flowering tops
yarrow
lime flowers
KEEPS
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Infuse 1 generous tsp. of the dried herbs in a mug of water for 15 minutes. Drink 3 times daily.
If one or other symptom is prevalent, then one or more of the herbs can be increased, up to double the original quantity.
— Variation —
IF YOU ADD AN EQUAL AMOUNT OF RED SAGE (DAN SHEN), THEN THE TEA MAY ALSO BE OF BENEFIT FOR CHEST PAIN/ANGINA-TYPE SYMPTOMS. BUT AN IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOU ARE TAKING WARFARIN OR OTHER PRESCRIPTION BLOOD-THINNING MEDICATIONS, YOU MUST CONSULT AN HERBALIST, BECAUSE THIS FORM OF SAGE CAN POTENTIATE THE MEDICINES AND THUS THE DOSAGE MAY NEED REVIEW. OTHER HERBS CAN ALSO BE OF BENEFIT FOR CARDIAC SYMPTOMS, BUT THEY ARE ONLY AVAILABLE FROM A QUALIFIED HERBALIST.
Bright Eyes Wash
This strong infusion is an effective eye wash for eye infections and sore eyes.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 oz. marigold
1/2 oz. eyebright
1/2 oz. chickweed
1/2 oz. coarsely ground Oregon grape root
1/2 oz. cornflowers
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 21/2-oz. herb mixture, enough for 15 uses.
Keeps 1–2 years in dry form. Once made up, use the same day.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together.
Infuse 1 generous tbsp. in 1 cup boiling water. Let cool, then strain carefully through cheesecloth or a thin cloth.
Wash the eyes 2–3 times daily using a sterile eye bath. Wash the eye bath well between each eye. Keep the eye wash covered between uses.
Caution
Always consult a healthcare professional for any eye problem.
Sage & Thyme Gargle
A simple, classic gargle mixture for sore throats and warding off colds.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups boiling water
1 oz. sage leaves, dried or fresh
4 drops thyme essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups—enough for 10 gargles. Keeps 3 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Pour boiling water onto the sage and let sit until lukewarm. Strain and press through cheesecloth or a thin cloth to get a dark, strong infusion. Add the essential oil and bottle.
Shake well before use, then gargle with about 3 tbsp. Repeat every hour in acute cases, otherwise use 3 times daily.
Coltsfoot Expectorant Honey
INGREDIENTS
1 large handful of coltsfoot flowers
2 cups water
1 cup honey
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 cups.
Keeps 1 year unopened. Once open, store in the refrigerator and use within 1 month.
METHOD
Decoct the flowers in water (see here). Simmer uncovered to reduce to 1 cup of liquid. Strain and add an equal amount of honey.
Gently heat the mixture for a few minutes to dissolve the honey. Remove from the heat and pour into bottles.
Take 1 tsp. 2–4 times daily for a cough.
Sinus-Clearing Inhalation
INGREDIENTS
2 cups water, almost boiling
1 tsp./5ml benzoin tincture (Friar’s Balsam)
Essential oils:
1 drop thyme
1 drop eucalyptus
1 drop lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 cups.
Use immediately.
METHOD
Put the ingredients into a large bowl. Carefully cover your head and the bowl with a towel to trap the steam inside. Inhale through the nose until there is no more steam.
Repeat every 4 hours as required.
— Tip —
FRIAR’S BALSAM TINCTURE LEAVES A RESIDUE OF RESIN ON THE SIDE OF THE CONTAINER THAT IS HARD TO WASH OFF. KEEP A CONTAINER ASIDE FOR ONLY FRIAR’S BALSAM USE, UNLESS YOU LIKE A LOT OF SCRUBBING!
Vapor Rub
Courtesy of Neil Williams
Rub into chest and neck to help relieve breathing and fight chest infections.
INGREDIENTS
just over 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. grated beeswax
Essential oils:
60 drops eucalyptus
60 drops pine
60 drops peppermint
60 drops cajeput
60 drops cedarwood
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Gently melt the beeswax into the olive oil in a double boiler or water bath. Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes, then add the essential oils and pour into one or more jars.
Use sparingly.
Caution
Do not use on children under 2 years. Keep away from the eyes and delicate tissues.
Truly Tasty Cough Mixture
Courtesy of Geoff Edwards
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
3/4 oz. coltsfoot
3/4 oz. Irish moss
3/4 oz. licorice root
1/2 oz. thyme
1/2 oz. elecampane
1/2 oz. white horehound
11/2 quarts water
11/4 oz. ground marshmallow root
36 oz. honey
Essential oils:
60 drops eucalyptus
60 drops anise seed
30 drops peppermint
1/2 tsp. quillea fluid extract (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 quarts.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Simmer all the dried herbs except for the marshmallow root in the water for 30 minutes, then strain. Measure the liquid and make up the volume to 51/4 cups (add more water or reduce the liquid further, as required).
Meanwhile, make a smooth paste from the marshmallow with a little water. Then add more water to make up to 2 cups.
Add to the herbal mix in the saucepan with the honey. Bring to a boil and simmer briskly for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool.
You should have about 2 quarts of liquid. Separately, mix together the essential oils and quillea tincture (this emulsifies the essential oils so they do not separate), then add it to the rest.
Take 1–2 tsp. 3–4 times daily, neat or with a little warm water.
Rose Hip, Hawthorn & Pine Throat Lozenges
INGREDIENTS
3 generous handfuls of fresh rose hips
2 generous handfuls of fresh hawthorn berries
up to 11/2 cups golden syrup or light corn syrup
up to 21/2 cups sugar
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml pine tincture (see here)
20 drops lemon essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• CANDY MOLDS OR BAKING SHEET (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 100 or so lozenges.
Keeps up to 6 weeks in a container in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Collect your berries, and immediately decoct in enough water to cover (see here), covered, for 10 minutes. Let cool. Mash up the mixture a little, then strain through a double layer of cheesecloth. Mix this liquid (probably about 12/3 cups) with equal amounts of both sugar and golden or corn syrup.
Make into candies (see here), stirring in the pine tincture and lemon essential oil just before pouring the mixture into molds.
Lichen, Coltsfoot & Thyme Cough Candies
INGREDIENTS
2 handfuls of lung lichen
2 cups water
up to 2 cups sugar
up to 11/4 cups golden syrup or light corn syrup
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml coltsfoot tincture (see here)
20 drops thyme essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• CANDY MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 100–200 small hard candies.
Keeps up to 6 weeks.
METHOD
Make a decoction by bringing the lichen and water to a boil (see here), then simmering for 10 minutes with the lid on. Let the mixture sit to cool, then strain.
Mix this liquid (about 12/3 cups) with equal amounts of sugar and golden or corn syrup. Make into candies (see here), stirring in the coltsfoot tincture and thyme essential oil just before pouring the mixture into molds.
Antinausea Tea
If you can keep it down, this can help with nausea.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. chamomile
1 oz. peppermint
1 oz. roughly ground root ginger
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together and store in a jar.
Make the tea using 1 tsp. per mug, infused for 5 minutes.
Take 4–5 times daily.
Antinausea Suppositories
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
Use these when you feel too nauseous to take anything by mouth. The cocoa butter melts and releases the essential oils; these enter the bloodstream and exert their medicinal effect.
INGREDIENTS
4 tsp. cocoa butter
Essential oils:
12 drops chamomile
4 drops peppermint
4 drops lemon
1 drop ginger
YOU WILL NEED
• 7 (2-G) SUPPOSITORY MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 7 suppositories.
Keeps 3 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Gently warm the cocoa butter in a double boiler or water bath until melted. Mix in the essential oils, pour into molds, and put into the refrigerator to set. Once set (usually after about 30 minutes), remove from the molds and store.
Insert one into your buttocks as needed, or every 3–4 hours.
Marshmallow Water for Acid Indigestion
This is also good for coughs and catarrh.
INGREDIENTS
21 oz. ground dried marshmallow root (or 1 small handful of freshly dug roots)
2 cups cold water
1–2 tbsp. honey (optional; if using, manuka is the best)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 cups.
Keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Soak the marshmallow in the water for 30 minutes. When softened, process in a blender for a few minutes until smooth. Add the honey, if using, and let sit for 4 hours. Bottle and keep in the refrigerator.
Take 2 tbsp. 3 times daily until symptoms are finished.
Irritable Bowel Tincture Mix
Courtesy of Louise Idoux
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml chamomile
2 tsp./10ml cardamom
1 tbsp./15ml fennel
2 tsp./10ml wild yam
2 tsp./10ml cramp bark
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Simply mix and bottle.
Take 1 tsp. in warm water 3 times daily.
Heartburn Tea
Courtesy of Steve Kippax
This tea is great for stomach pain, heartburn, and reflux. The meadowsweet helps to reduce the inflammation in the stomach and marshmallow root coats the stomach lining with a healing coat. Licorice stops the pain and reflux associated with gastritis and heartburn.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
2 oz. meadowsweet
2 oz. ground marshmallow root
2 oz. ground licorice root
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 6-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Mix the dried herbs together and store.
Take 1 generous tsp. of the dried herbs infused in a mug of hot water for 15 minutes 3–4 times daily.
Gas-Reducing Syrup
For promoting good digestion and liver function.
INGREDIENTS
1 handful of fresh angelica root, coarsely chopped (or 2 oz. dried)
1 quart water
1 (12-oz.) jar of honey
juice of 2 lemons
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 22 fl. oz.
Keeps up to 1 year in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Simmer the angelica for 21/2 hours in the water. Strain and reduce to 11/4 cups of liquid. Add the honey and lemon juice. Gently warm and stir to dissolve the honey, then pour into bottles, tightening the lids when cool.
Take 1 tsp. 1–3 times daily as required.
Antispasmodic Drops
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
A practitioner-level remedy for intestinal spasm consisting of a blend of tinctures. Measure using a millimeter measure—accuracy is important.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
10ml cramp bark (fluid extract if possible, see here)
4ml pasqueflower
4ml yellow jasmine
2ml henbane
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 20 ml.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a dropper bottle.
Take 10 drops in a little water every hour until spasms ease. Do not exceed 10 doses in 24 hours (see box).
Always seek your healthcare practitioner’s advice to determine the cause of pain.
Caution
Henbane and yellow jasmine are strong herbs that are harmful in large doses. Very small amounts are used by herbal practitioners: a maximum of 5 ml—1 tsp.—per week (equal to 5 drops taken 3 times daily). In some countries, only herbal practitioners are permitted to purchase these plants.
Worm Suppositories
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
For greatest success, use these alongside the Intestinal Parasite Treatment (see here)
INGREDIENTS
4 tsp. cocoa butter
Essential oils:
10 drops vetiver
10 drops oregano
5 drops cloves
5 drops roman chamomile
YOU WILL NEED
• 7 (2-G) SUPPOSITORY MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 7 suppositories.
Keeps 3 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Gently melt the cocoa butter in a double boiler or water bath. Mix in the essential oils and pour into the molds.
Insert 1 into your buttocks evening and morning for 4 days either side of the new moon and full moon (when worms are most active).
Intestinal Parasite Treatment
Use these alongside the Worm Suppositories (see here) for best effect.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml cloves
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml bayberry
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml wormwood
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml black walnut
To administer:
2 tsp. flaxseeds
1 handful of pumpkin seeds (approx. 20)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 3/4 cup.
Keeps at least 2 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together. Put 2 tsp. of the tincture mix in just over 3/4 cup water.
To administer, grind the flaxseeds and mix them with the drink. Eat the pumpkin seeds, washing them down with the drink.
Do this once daily for 3 weeks. Let sit for 1 week, then repeat for 2 weeks.
— Tip —
IF YOU CAN GET HOLD OF THEM, FRESH PAPAYAS CAN ALSO BE USED TO TREAT WORMS. TAKE 2 TSP. FRESH PAPAYA SEEDS EVERY DAY FOR 3 WEEKS. CHEW THEM WELL.
Bowel Cleanse
Best used alongside a detox diet. If possible, eat a whole-food diet for at least 2–3 weeks before starting to take this mixture.
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
2 oz. yellow dock root
2 oz. turkey rhubarb root
2 oz. plantain leaves
2 oz. Californian buckthorn bark
2 oz. barberry bark
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 10 oz. (enough for 3 weeks).
Keeps 1 year.
Fresh:
2 tbsp. aloe vera gel
2-inch piece fresh ginger root, grated
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 quart apple juice
2 tsp. psyllium husks
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 day’s dose.
Use fresh.
METHOD
Thoroughly mix together the ground herbs.
Take 4 tsp. of the mixture and add the aloe, ginger, garlic, and apple juice. Mix well.
Take in the morning, adding the psyllium husks to the last one-quarter of the liquid.
Drink daily for 3 weeks.
Do not give to children under 12 without professional advice.
Milk Thistle Liver Protector
Milk thistle has the ability to protect the liver from toxins, as well as to support a damaged liver while it regenerates.
INGREDIENTS
4 oz. milk thistle seeds, dried and ground
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 50–60 doses.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Take 1 tsp. stirred into 1/2 mug of warm water 1–2 times daily.
Bentonite Clay Cleanser
Clay is extremely absorbent, so it draws toxic substances. In the bowel, it will draw all kinds of toxins and help to eliminate them from the body.
INGREDIENTS
1 tsp. clay
1 mug of chamomile tea (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 dose.
Drink immediately.
METHOD
Soak the clay in the chamomile tea for the day. Take on an empty stomach before bed.
Take daily for 3 weeks, then have a break for at least a week.
Coconut Liver Blast
This mixture is a good general boost for the liver, helpful alongside a detox diet. The mix is taken with coconut oil, which has been found to protect the liver from toxins.
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
3 oz. dandelion leaves
3 oz. milk thistle seeds
3 oz. angelica archangelica root
1 (12-oz.) jar of virgin coconut oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 21 oz.
Keeps at least 6 months.
METHOD
Gently melt the coconut oil in the jar in a double boiler or water bath and thoroughly mix in the herbs. Pour into a large jar and let set in a cool place for 30–60 minutes.
Take 1 tbsp. 1–2 times daily.
Cystitis Tea
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. buchu leaves
1 oz. plantain leaves
1 oz. yarrow flowering tops
1 oz. marshmallow leaves
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 4-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Mix the herbs well. Make the tea, using 2 tbsp. to 1 quart water (see here).
Strain and drink over 1 day.
Repeat daily and continue for 5 days after the symptoms clear. Usually, the symptoms improve almost immediately, but if you stop taking the tea too soon, they will come back—the infection needs to be thoroughly cleared.
— Tip —
FOR CYSTITIS PREVENTION, TAKE 1 MUG OF CYSTITIS TEA, MADE FROM 1 TSP. PER MUG, DAILY.
Cystitis Routine
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp./150ml cornsilk
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp./75ml buchu
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp./75ml bearberry
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 11/4 cups.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Put just under 1/2 cup of the mixture into 1 quart water.
Sip it over 24 hours and repeat the next day. On days 3 and 4, put just under 1/4 cup into 1 quart water. Sip it over 24 hours. You must complete the 4-day course.
Do not give to children under 12.
Caution
If you don’t feel better after the first 24 hours of this treatment, then you need antibiotics; see your doctor. Bladder infections must be treated quickly, because they can track up to the kidneys with serious consequences.
Waterfall Smoothie
Courtesy of Anne McIntyre
To help treat the retention of premenstrual fluid.
INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup of the following fresh herbs:
wild celery leaves
dandelion leaves
fennel leaves and/or seeds
cilantro leaves and/or coriander seeds
nasturtium leaves and flowers
parsley leaves
1 bunch of celery, chopped
1 cucumber, chopped
YOU WILL NEED
• A BLENDER
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 serving.
Drink immediately.
METHOD
Blend all the ingredients until smooth.
Drink the smoothie for breakfast first thing in the morning, and repeat throughout the day as often as desired. Continue over a few days, or over a few weeks if the problem is chronic.
Incontinence Tea
Helps to strengthen the bladder.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. horsetail
1 oz. couchgrass
1 oz. shepherd’s purse
1 oz. borage
1 oz. marshmallow leaves
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 5-oz. tea mix.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Make the tea, using 2 tsp. per mug (see here).
Drink 2–3 cups daily.
Ladies’ Lovelies
Courtesy of Sensory Solutions
These protective, nurturing, and balancing drops help to support women of any age. They help with traumatic pregnancy and birth experiences and other female gynecological issues, such as difficult menstruation, problems in conceiving, and menopause.
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp./30ml raspberry leaf tincture (see here)
2 tbsp./30ml lady’s mantle tincture (see here)
2 tbsp. nettle syrup (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1/3 cup.
Keeps at least a year.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together in a dropper bottle.
Take 5–10 drops 3–6 times daily as required.
Nettle Syrup
Delicious and rich in minerals and vitamin C.
INGREDIENTS
3 cups water
2 oz. dried nettles (or 2 cups fresh)
2 cups sugar (I prefer brown)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 3 cups
Keeps 3–12 months.
METHOD
Bring the water and nettles to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes with the lid on. Let steep for 3–4 hours, then strain.
Reduce the liquid to 2 cups. Add the sugar and boil for an additional 4–5 minutes, then pour into bottles.
Take 1–2 tsp. daily as a mineral-rich syrup or use diluted with carbonated water as a beverage.
PMS Chocolates
These bittersweet chocolates contain a daily dose of PMS-busting herbs.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup cocoa butter
1/2 cup coconut oil
1 cup raw chocolate powder
2 tsp. ground chasteberry (this herb tastes bitter)
1/3 oz. dried and ground lady’s mantle
about 2 tbsp. honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup, to taste
1 handful of raspberries, dried or fresh
1 handful of chopped nuts
2 drops rose otto essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• SMALL MOLDS, SUCH AS ICE CUBE TRAYS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 40 ice cube-size chocolates.
Keeps 2–3 months in the freezer.
METHOD
Put all ingredients except the honey/syrup, raspberries, nuts, and rose otto essential oil into a double boiler or water bath. Melt the butter over gentle heat, stirring constantly. Do not overheat. Add the honey/syrup to taste, and the raspberries and nuts, continuing to stir.
When you are satisfied with the sweetness, remove from the heat. Stir in the rose otto essential oil and pour into the molds. (Put about 1 tbsp. into each.)
Let set in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes.
Eat 1 chocolate daily to help balance your hormones. You may use this remedy for 3–12 months. Don’t stop and start; take continuously as the chasteberry works best that way.
When the PMS is most acute and you want to eat more chocolates, switch to No Stress Raw Chocolates (see here).
No Stress Raw Chocolates
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup cocoa butter
1/2 cup coconut oil
1 cup raw chocolate powder
2 tbsp. ground valerian
4 tbsp. dried ground passionflower
2 tbsp. dried rose petals, broken into small pieces
1–2 tbsp. honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup
2 drops rose otto essential oil
2 tbsp. cocoa nibs
2 tbsp. shelled hemp seeds
YOU WILL NEED
• SMALL MOLDS, SUCH AS ICE CUBE TRAYS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 40 ice cube-size chocolates.
Keeps 3 months in the freezer.
METHOD
Put all ingredients except the honey/syrup, rose otto essential oil, cocoa nibs, and hemp seeds into a double boiler or water bath. Melt the cocoa butter over gentle heat, stirring constantly. Do not overheat. Add the honey/syrup to taste, continuing to stir.
When you are satisfied with the sweetness, remove from the heat. Stir in the rose otto essential oil, nibs, and seeds, then pour it into the molds. (Put about 1 tbsp. into each.)
Eat up to 4–5 daily in the days leading up to your period, or at any other stressful time.
Period Pain Chocolates
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup cocoa butter
1/2 cup coconut oil
1 cup raw chocolate powder
4 tsp. ground cinnamon
4 tsp. dried ground cramp bark
5 tsp. skullcap
1–2 tbsp. honey, agave syrup or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa nibs, shelled hemp seeds, or chopped nuts
YOU WILL NEED
• SMALL MOLDS, SUCH AS ICE CUBE TRAYS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 40 ice cube-size chocolates.
Keeps 3 months in the freezer.
METHOD
Put all ingredients except the honey/syrup and nibs/seeds/nuts into a double boiler or water bath. Melt the cocoa butter over gentle heat, stirring constantly. Do not overheat. Add the honey/syrup to taste, continuing to stir.
When you are satisfied with the sweetness, remove from the heat, add the nibs/seeds/nuts, and pour it into the molds. (Put about 1 tbsp. into each.)
Eat 1 chocolate every 20 minutes until period pain has eased, then 1 every 3 hours.
Period Pain Tea
Courtesy of Anne McIntyre
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
2 oz. rose
2 oz. motherwort
2 oz. lady’s mantle
2 oz. chamomile
2 oz. clary sage
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 10-oz. herb mixture (enough for 10 days).
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together. Put 2 oz. of the herb mix into a teapot. Pour 1 quart boiling water over the herbs and infuse for 10–15 minutes.
Drink 1 mug 3 times daily throughout the month.
On the first day of the period, or whenever there is the most discomfort, drink throughout the day as needed, up to 6 mugs.
Cream for Vaginal Thrush
This versatile cream can also be used for men’s thrush and for oral thrush.
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup Heal-All Marigold Cream (see here)
Essential oils:
6 drops tea tree
6 drops niaouli
6 drops palmarosa
2 drops oregano
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/4 cup.
Keeps at least 6 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Mix the marigold cream and essential oils together.
Apply to the affected area 1–2 times daily.
Pessaries for Thrush
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
These help to soothe itching and restore vaginal health.
INGREDIENTS
8 tsp. cocoa butter
Essential oils:
13 drops tea tree
13 drops niaouli
13 drops palmarosa
4 drops oregano
YOU WILL NEED
• 14 (2-G) MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 14 pessaries.
Keeps 3 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Gently warm the cocoa butter in a double boiler or water bath until melted. Mix in the essential oils and pour into the molds.
Insert 1 pessary as high as you can into the vagina 2 times daily. Lie down for 10–30 minutes after inserting.
Morning Sickness Candies
INGREDIENTS
1/2 handful of chopped fresh ginger root
1 oz. dried black horehound (double the quantity if fresh)
just under 2 cups water
23/4 cups brown sugar
4 tbsp. butter (optional)
YOU WILL NEED
• CANDY MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 100 hard candies.
Keeps 4–6 weeks in a container in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Boil the ginger and horehound in water for 20 minutes. Strain and make the candies (see here).
If using butter, add it just before pouring the candy mix into the molds.
Take 4–8 candies daily, and enjoy.
FOR LABOR
These are a few remedies to assist labor.
All are tinctures unless otherwise stated, which can be bought from a store or be homemade as instructed (see here). Always take tinctures by mixing them with water.
Please be aware that these remedies should only be used to assist birth where necessary, and should never be used in place of proper medical attention.
Labor Endurance Mix
To help keep up strength for labor.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz. dried raspberry leaves
1 oz. dried lady’s mantle leaves
1 quart boiling water
1/4 cup/50ml American ginseng tincture (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 quart.
Keeps 2 days.
METHOD
Make a tea from the raspberry leaves, lady’s mantle leaves, and water (see here). Add the ginseng tincture. Sip throughout labor from the start.
Contractions Booster
To make weak contractions stronger, and to help expel the placenta.
INGREDIENTS
golden seal tincture (see here) or dried ground root
METHOD
Take 1–2 tsp. every 1–2 hours. If using the dried form, take 1/2–1 tsp. Note: It tastes vile!
Relaxing Mix for Labor
This is to take during labor if contractions are too strong and painful early on.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
1 tbsp./15ml lobelia
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp./40ml blue cohosh
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp./40ml cramp bark
1 tsp./5ml yellow jasmine
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Take 1 tsp. every 1–2 hours. If the cervix is not opening, take 1 tbsp. in a single dose.
Antihemorrhage Mix
This mixture can be used to slow any bleeding anywhere in the body.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tbsp./30ml yarrow
2 tbsp./30ml shepherd’s purse
2 tbsp./30ml goldenseal
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 6 tbsp.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Call an ambulance if medics are not already there. Take 4 tsp, followed by another 4 tsp. in 15 minutes if still bleeding.
No-Sweat Sage Tea
Particularly useful for menopausal night sweats, sage can help any excessive sweating.
INGREDIENTS
3 tbsp. dried chopped sage leaves and flowers
1 quart boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 quart (enough for 2 days).
Keeps up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Put the sage into a teapot or lidded saucepan. Cover with the boiling water, add the lid, and let cool. Strain and drink cold.
Take 1 mug 3 times daily for several weeks.
Syrupy Menopause Mix
A delicious way to take these female hormone-boosting herbs.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup/120ml wild yam root tincture (see here)
1/2 cup/120ml red clover syrup (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
1 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the tincture and syrup together and bottle. Take 1/2–2 tsp. 2–3 times daily.
Note
Treatments for hormone conditions often take at least 3 months to take full effect.
Herbal “HRT” Cream
This do-it-yourself cream is made from wild yam. Many women swear by it to help keep menopausal symptoms at bay.
INGREDIENTS
6 tbsp. + 2 tsp. evening primrose oil
1/2 cup emulsifying wax
3/4 cup + 5 tsp. wild yam root tea (see here)
6 tbsp. + 2 tsp./100ml wild yam tincture (see here)
Essential oils (optional):
20 drops jasmine
20 drops neroli
20 drops clary sage
1/2 tsp./2ml benzoin tincture (Friar’s Balsam)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 2 cups.
Keeps up to 1 year.
METHOD
Make as for Comfrey Cream for Speedy Healing (see here), mixing in the essential oils, if using, with the benzoin.
To use, rub 1 tsp. of the cream into soft skin (inside the arms, inner thighs, belly, breasts) 1–2 times daily.
Balancing Tincture for Menopause
Courtesy of Anne McIntyre
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
4 oz. red sage leaves
4 oz. motherwort
4 oz. lady’s mantle
4 oz. chamomile
4 oz. rose petals (or use 9 oz. each of fresh herbs)
2 cups brandy or vodka
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 12/3 cups/400ml tincture.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Make a tincture from the ingredients (see here).
Take 1–2 tsp. 3 times daily in a little water.
It may take 3 weeks–3 months to benefit fully.
Tea for Dizziness
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
2 oz. rosemary leaves
2 oz. gingko leaves
2 oz. wood betony leaves
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 6-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Mix well and store in a jar.
Make the tea as required, using 1 tsp. per mug (see here).
Take 3 mugs daily.
Cramp-Relieving Tincture
Courtesy of Anthony Seifert
Helps to treat menstrual cramping and cramping due to dysentery, as well as headaches, sleeplessness, and anxiety.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
3 tbsp./45ml California poppy
2 tbsp./30ml silk tassel
1 tbsp./15ml lemon balm
1 tbsp./15ml Jamaican dogwood bark
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Combine all the tinctures and bottle.
Take 10–30 drops up to 5 times daily until pain subsides.
Women’s Balancing Tea (Swiss Style)
Courtesy of Christine Herren-Valette
This tea helps to harmonize the menstrual cycle.
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
3 tbsp. yarrow
2 tbsp. raspberry leaf
2 tbsp. lady’s mantle
2 tbsp. marigold flowers
5 tsp. sage
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together. Make the tea (see here), using 1 tsp. of the herb mixture per mug of hot water.
Take 1–3 cups daily.
Herbal Tonic for Prostate Health
Many men experience prostate problems and can benefit from prostate-supporting herbs.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 oz. nettle root
1/2 oz. saw palmetto
1/2 oz. horsetail
1/2 oz. raspberry leaf
1/2 oz. plantain
1 tbsp. white cedar
2 cups organic Apple Cider Vinegar (see here) or organic vodka
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 11/3 cups.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Make a tincture or infused vinegar (see here).
Take 1 tsp. 3 times daily in a little water.
— Tip —
TAKE 1–2 TBSP. PUMPKIN SEEDS DAILY TO BOOST YOUR ZINC LEVELS. PLENTY OF EXERCISE WILL ALSO HELP.
Men’s Reproductive Tonic
May support in treating infertility and impotence.
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
2 oz. horsetail
2 oz. damiana
2 oz. ginseng
3/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1 (12-oz.) jar of virgin coconut oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 22 oz.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Mix together the herbs and seeds. Separately, melt the coconut oil in a double boiler or water bath. Mix the herbs/seeds and oil together thoroughly and jar. Let set for 30–60 minutes in a cool place. Once set, store in a cool place.
Take 1 tbsp. daily.
Antianxiety Drops with Valerian & Rose
INGREDIENTS
1 oz. valerian root
1/2 oz. rosebuds
2 cups brandy
1 tbsp. honey
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 2 cups.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together and put into a large jar with a lid. Let sit in a cool place for 3 weeks. Strain and bottle.
Take 5–10 drops as required, up to 6 times daily.
Herbal Antidepressant
This mix almost always lifts the spirits, without making you feel numb or interfering with painful emotions.
INGREDIENTS
Dried and powdered herbs:
3 oz. oat straw
3 oz. rosemary
3 oz. lemon balm
3 oz. St. John’s wort
1 (12-oz.) jar of honey or pure coconut oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 24 oz.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together. Warm the honey or oil and mix well with the herbs. Pour into jars.
Take 1–2 tsp. 1–3 times daily (if you feel really down, go for the higher dose of 2 tsp, then reduce it as you start to feel better).
False Solomon’s Seal & Teasel for Joints
Courtesy of Matthew Wood
This acts on the carpals and tarsals and on the pelvic floor. It is also great for the small joints of the fingers if treating rheumatoid arthritis.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
1/4 cup/60ml false Solomon’s seal or “dragon root”
1/4 cup/60ml teasel
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Take 3–5 drops 3 times daily.
Solomon’s Seal & Agrimony Tension Remedy
Courtesy of Matthew Wood
This remedy for tension, both psychological and physical, relaxes most people in seconds. It’s made with 7 parts agrimony to 4 parts Solomon’s seal.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
3/4 cup + 6 tsp./210ml agrimony (but make this with 11/2 handfuls of fresh agrimony and 1–2 cups good brandy, enough to cover)
1/2 cup/120ml Solomon’s seal (but make this with 11/2 handfuls of Solomon’s seal roots—unearthed, coarsely chopped, and placed in a jar—and 2 cups vodka)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups.
Keeps at least 2 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Take 3–5 drops 3 times daily (or as needed).
— Tip —
PICK THE AGRIMONY LEAVES OFF THE SIDES OF THE LEADER OR MAIN STEM, SO THAT THE LATTER CAN GO ON TO FLOWERING.
SOLOMON’S SALVES
The following variations on Solomon’s seal salve come from the highly regarded American herbalist Matthew Wood. All feature the infused oil of true Solomon’s seal root. To make it, use 7 oz. dry plant material and enough safflower or olive oil to cover (about 1 cup) (see here). To make each salve recipe, simply heat all the ingredients together until the beeswax has melted, stir, and pour into jars.
All these recipes make 4 full 2-oz. jars, with possibly a little left over, and keep for at least 12 months in the refrigerator.
Apply these salves liberally to sore, affected areas 1–3 times daily.
Joint-Aligning Salve
This helps to tighten loose joints and bring them back into alignment.
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup + 5 tsp. infused oil of true Solomon’s seal (see recipe)
1,600 IU vitamin E oil
2 tbsp. + 2 tbsp. Comfrey Oil (see here)
3 tbsp. grated beeswax
Solomon’s Bad Back Salve
This muscle and joint-relaxing salve has a particular affinity with the back.
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup + 5 tsp. infused oil of true Solomon’s seal (see recipe)
1,600 IU vitamin E oil
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. ginger root infused oil (see here)
3 tbsp. grated beeswax
Salve for Dry Joints
Adding marshmallow seems to enhance Solomon’s seal’s ability to moisten and nourish the joints.
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup + 5 tsp. infused oil of true Solomon’s seal (see recipe)
1,600 IU vitamin E oil
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. marshmallow root infused oil (see here)
3 tbsp. grated beeswax
Cartilage-Healing Salve
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup + 1 tbsp. infused oil of true Solomon’s seal (see recipe)
1,600 IU vitamin E oil
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. horsetail tops infused oil (see here)
3 tbsp. grated beeswax
Skin-Calming Tea
This tea helps to soothe eczema and other itchy inflammations of the skin.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. red clover flowers
1 oz. cleavers herb
1 oz. ground dandelion root
1 oz. dandelion leaf
1 oz. nettle leaves
1 oz. heartsease flowering tops
1 oz. skullcap tops
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 7oz.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix together equal parts of the above herbs. Store in a large jar.
Shake or mix well before each use. Make tea (see here), using 2 tbsp. of the mixture infused in 3 mugs of boiling water for 7 minutes.
Drink the 3 mugs over one day.
Take the tea for at least 3 months.
— Tip —
FOR ACNE, DRINK THIS TEA AND ALSO TAKE GARLIC AND ECHINACEA TINCTURE (see HERE), 1/2–1 TSP. 3 TIMES DAILY. MOST PEOPLE WITH SKIN DISEASES ALSO NEED TO MAKE DIETARY CHANGES. DISCUSS THIS WITH YOUR HERBALIST OR HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONER.
Antifungal Ointment
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup avocado oil
Essential oils:
8 drops lavender
8 drops neroli
4 drops myrrh
4 drops frankincense
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2/3 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Gently melt the coconut oil with the avocado oil in a double boiler or water bath. Put the oil to one side to start to cool. When the oil starts to solidify, whisk and add the essential oils. Pour the mixture into glass jars.
Apply generously to the affected area twice daily until clear of infection.
Cold Sore Ointment
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup avocado oil
5 drops lemon balm (melissa) essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2/3 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Follow the method for Antifungal Ointment (see here).
Apply a little to the affected area frequently.
Psoriasis Ointment
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
Try a few different psoriasis treatments so that you find the best one for you.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup avocado oil
Essential oils:
8 drops lavender
8 drops neroli
8 drops helichynum
oil from 2 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2/3 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Follow the method for Antifungal Ointment (see here). Then add both the essential oils and the vitamin E oil as the ointment cools.
Apply ointment generously to the affected areas 1–2 times daily.
— Tip —
PSORIASIS USUALLY NEEDS INTERNAL TREATMENT AS WELL. SEE THE SKIN-CALMING TEA OPPOSITE (TAKE THE TEA AS WELL AS USING AN EXTERNAL TREATMENT). AN HERBALIST CAN USUALLY HELP PSORIASIS AND OTHER SKIN DISEASES WITH A TAILOR-MADE TREATMENT DESIGNED FOR YOU.
Psoriasis Cream
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup Heal-All Marigold Cream (see here)
Essential oils:
7 drops neroli
7 drops lavender
7 drops bergamot
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Mix the essential oils into the cream.
Apply 2–3 times daily.
Psoriasis Lotion
If a large area of the body is affected by psoriasis, it is easiest to apply a lotion.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup pure vegetable glycerin
Essential oils:
50 drops/1/2 tsp. lavender
20 drops neroli
20 drops bergamot
just under 1/2 cup lavender water (bought in a store or homemade, see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 3/4 cup.
Keeps up to 6 months.
METHOD
Whisk the essential oils into the glycerine, then gradually add the lavender water. Shake well before use.
Apply 2–3 times daily.
Acne Ointment
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
A variation on the Cold Sore Ointment (see here).
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup avocado oil
8 drops tea tree essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2/3 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Follow the method for Antifungal Ointment (see here).
Apply frequently to acne.
Drawing Ointment
Courtesy of Neil Williams
Helps to draw out splinters or pus.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz. dried marshmallow root
just over 1/3 cup olive oil
1 oz. dried slippery elm
1 tbsp. grated beeswax
30 drops lavender essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1/2 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
In a double boiler, mix the marshmallow root in the olive oil. Simmer for 1 hour. Add the slippery elm and mix until smooth, then add the beeswax and let it melt in. Let it cool slightly for 5 minutes, then mix in the lavender oil before transferring to jars.
Apply generously to affected areas until the splinter or pus is out.
Fissure Salve
Courtesy of Stephen Buhner
Heals painful skin fissures (fingers, feet, or anal) that do not respond to other interventions.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz. Japanese knotweed root, dried and cut into tiny pieces
1 oz. Stephania root (a Chinese vine with strong anti-inflammatory effects), dried and cut into tiny pieces
1/4 oz. dried thyme
up to 2 cups olive oil, enough to cover
1/2 tsp. vitamin E oil
3–6 tbsp. grated beeswax
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes up to 2 cups.
Keeps at least 1 year in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Make an infused oil (see here) by putting the herbs into a lidded ovenproof dish and adding olive oil to cover to a depth of 1/2 inch. Let sit overnight in the oven on its lowest setting.
Cool for an hour or so, strain, and measure, then add the vitamin E oil and slowly reheat, adding 2 tbsp. of beeswax per 1 cup of oil.
Apply frequently.
Cold Sore Lotion
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
1/2 tsp./3ml myrrh tincture (this is made with 190 proof alcohol because it is a resin; see tip).
3/4 tsp./4ml lemon balm tincture
1/2 tsp. St. John’s Wort Oil (see here)
3 drops lemon balm (melissa) essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 tsp.
Keeps 3 years.
METHOD
Mix together in a small bottle. Dab it on frequently throughout the day, reducing as the pain of the cold sore subsides.
Antiwart Tincture
Courtesy of Karen Stephenson
INGREDIENTS
1/3 oz. fresh greater celandine, crushed
1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1 cup.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Make as for herbal vinegars (see here).
Dab undiluted onto warts twice daily. Alternatively, use a pad soaked in the tincture and place onto the wart with a bandage. Change daily.
Wart & Verucca Zapper
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
Suitable for adults and children, the zapper is good for clusters of warts or verrucas. Be aware that persistent warts or verrucas can indicate an underlying problem or weakness.
INGREDIENTS
5 tsp. lemon essential oil
5 tsp. castor oil
7 tsp./35ml white cedar tincture (see here)
3 tsp./15ml greater celandine tincture (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together in a bottle.
Shake before each use. Cover the entire affected area twice daily. Note: It will take several weeks to take effect.
Fungal Toe Nail Cure
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
This treatment works if used for several months—and continued for 1 month after the nails look clear.
INGREDIENTS
Essential oils:
Mixture 1
50 drops/1/2 tsp. cinnamon
11/4 tsp. lemon
50 drops/1/2 tsp. oregano
Mixture 2
11/4 tsp. tea tree
50 drops/1/2 tsp. thyme
50 drops/1/2 tsp. palmarosa
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 21/2 tsp. of each mixture.
Keeps 2–3 years.
METHOD
Rub mixture 1 into the nail bed once daily for 1 week. Then swap to mixture 2 and then back to mixture 1 and so on for as long as it takes to clear the nails.
Cancer Treatment Survival Drink
These herbs help the body to cope with the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
INGREDIENTS
Dried ground herbs:
1 oz. ginseng root
1 oz. milk vetch root
1 oz. ginger root
1 oz. caraway seeds
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 4 oz.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the ground herbs together and jar.
Make the tea (see here), using 2 tsp. per mug of boiling water. Infuse for 10 minutes and drink 1 cup twice daily.
Alternatively, add 2 tsp. of the herb mixture to your favorite smoothie.
Take it while having chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and for a few months after to help the immune system recover.
Radiation Therapy Healing Salve
Courtesy of Catherine Johnson
This is particularly good for women having radiation therapy for breast cancer. It helps the skin’s integrity and helps prevent painful reddening of the skin.
INGREDIENTS
just over 3/4 cup Heal-All Marigold Oil (see here)
21/4 tbsp. grated beeswax
1/2 tsp. blue chamomile essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1 cup. Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Gently heat the marigold oil with the beeswax in a double boiler or water bath until melted. Remove from heat, let cool for 5 minutes, then stir in the essential oil. Pour into a jar.
Gently apply to the skin over the affected area 3–4 times daily in the weeks prior to and during radiation therapy treatment.
Caution
Wash the skin before radiation therapy. Do not use salve for 2 hours before radiation therapy.
Blood-Cleansing Formula
This mixture, for support during cancer treatment, is based on traditional cancer treatments (including the Native American “Essiac” formula).
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
4 oz. burdock root, finely chopped
2 oz. sheep sorrel leaves
13/4 oz. slippery elm, ground
1/3 oz. turkey rhubarb root
1 quart boiling water
1 tbsp. ground turmeric
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 73/4-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1 year. Once made up, keeps 3 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Mix all the dry ingredients together, except the ground turmeric.
To make 1 day’s dose, put 1/3 oz. of the mixture with the water into a saucepan. Simmer, covered with a lid, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit overnight. The next day, bring back to a boil and add the turmeric powder. Remove from the heat, let sit for 15 minutes, then strain.
Drink at least half immediately. Take the rest over the course of the day.
Violet Salve for Tumors
Courtesy of Louise Berliner
Violet leaves are known to dissolve hardness in the body. They are traditionally used to treat lumps in the breast.
INGREDIENTS
2 handfuls of fresh violet leaves (and flowers)
just over 3/4 cup olive oil
5 tsp. grated beeswax
1 drop of rose essential oil
10 drops frankincense essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 3/4 cup.
Keeps about 6 months.
METHOD
Pick the tiny violet leaves and flowers, and put them into a basket to wilt for a few hours. Make an infused oil over 5–6 weeks (see here).
Strain off the oil and heat it gently with the beeswax in a double boiler or water bath to melt the wax. Then remove the mixture from the heat, add the rose and frankincense essential oils, and pour into jars.
Apply a little to lumps 2–3 times daily.
Caution
Consult a healthcare professional immediately if you find a lump in your breast, or elsewhere.
SNUFF
People have ingested herbs in ground form as a nasal snuff for millennia. It’s a great strategy and can be a pleasant experience. The plant particles mop up infected reservoirs of mucus so that they can be expelled from the nose, while the good stuff in the herbs is absorbed straight into the bloodstream. Snuffs are mostly used for problems with the nose and sinuses, but they also have some generalized effects on the body.
The method for making snuffs is always the same. Measure finely ground herbs and mix together. Then rub in the essential oil (wear fine plastic gloves for hygiene). Sift 8 times, using a sifter or fine-mesh strainer, or more until the powders are blended and the essential oils mixed in.
Each recipe makes 6 tsp. of snuff and keeps at its best for 1 year. Store in a small airtight container. Take a pinch of snuff and sniff it up the nose 2–3 times daily.
All these recipes are courtesy of Melissa Ronaldson.
Uplifting Snuff
To uplift the mood.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. marshmallow root
2 tsp. rosemary
2 tsp. sweet flag
1 drop frankincense essential oil
Soothing Snuff
Calms sore and inflamed sinuses.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. marshmallow root
2 tsp. plantain
2 tsp. echinacea
1 drop chamomile essential oil
Opening & Clearing Snuff
Helps to open sinuses and clear blocked mucus.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. marshmallow root
2 tsp. lime flowers
2 tsp. elecampane
Essential oils:
1 drop peppermint
1 drop eucalyptus
Polyp Snuff
To shrink nasal polyps.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. marshmallow root
2 tsp. myrica
2 tsp. oak bark
1 drop frankincense essential oil
Up-All-Night-&-Still-Dancing Snuff
These herbal stimulants help to keep you going longer.
INGREDIENTS
22 tsp. marshmallow root
2 tsp. ashwaganda
tiny pinch of black pepper
tiny pinch of chili pepper
2 drops peppermint essential oil
BABIES’ & CHILDREN’S RECIPES
Here, follow some safe and effective recipes for treating children and babies. All of these recipes are also suitable for adults; an adult dose is up to double the children’s one.
Some of these recipes contain honey, but please note it’s not recommended that you give honey to babies under 1 year old. Always consult your healthcare practitioner for any serious symptoms in young people.
Dry Bed Syrup
INGREDIENTS
1/2 oz. dried agrimony (or 1 oz. fresh)
1/2 oz. dried St. John’s wort (or 1 oz. fresh)
1 oz. fennel seeds
2 cups water
1 (12-oz.) jar of honey
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 3 cups.
Keeps 1 year unopened. After opening, keep in refrigerator and use within 1 month.
METHOD
Decoct the herbs in the water (see here). Simmer the decoction for 10 minutes, then let steep until cool. Strain. Add the honey and return to the heat to make a syrup (see here).
Give 1 tsp. at bedtime until the bed-wetting problem is resolved.
Wild Cherry Cough-Calming Syrup
INGREDIENTS
1 cup wild cherry root
2 cups water
1 cup cherry juice (freshly made or bought in a store)
2 cups white sugar
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 31/3 cups.
Keeps 1 year unopened. After opening, keep in refrigerator and use within 1 month.
METHOD
Decoct the wild cherry root in the water (see here). Simmer the decoction until reduced by about half (this usually takes 20–30 minutes). Strain and add the cherry juice and sugar. Make the syrup (see here).
Give 1/2–2 tsp. at night to help sleep. Also give 1/2–1 tsp. up to 3 times a day to calm an irritable cough (when no mucus needs to be coughed up; see box).
Caution
The syrup suppresses coughing, which is helpful at night. However, if there is mucus that needs to be coughed up from the lungs, do not use this mixture during the day, because coughing then will rid the lungs of mucus.
Children’s Cough Honey
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
INGREDIENTS
1 (12-oz.) jar of honey
2 tsp. holy basil leaves
2 tsp. thyme leaves
2 tsp. hyssop flowering tops
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 12 oz.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Remove some of the honey so that the jar is four-fifths full. Place the herbs in a reusable tea bag (or tie them in a small piece of cheesecloth) and add to the jar. Let sit on a sunny windowsill for 3 weeks. If you want a stronger flavor, remove the bag and replace it with the same quantity of fresh herbs, then infuse for another few weeks.
Give 1 tsp. daily in a mug of hot water or ginger tea (see here) as a preventive. Give 3–6 times daily in acute infections.
Cough Tea
This is a good alternative to cough honey (see here), which is suitable for babies under 1 year of age.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. holy basil leaves
1 oz. thyme leaves
1 oz. hyssop flowering tops
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3-oz. herb mixture.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together and store in a jar.
Make the tea (see here), using 1 tsp. herb mix to 1 mug of boiling water. Put the herbs into a teapot and add boiling water. Infuse for 10 minutes.
Drink while warm, 1–3 cups daily.
Baby’s First Herbal Tea
This tea both soothes and calms the digestive system and gets baby used to herbal teas.
INGREDIENTS
One or more of the following dried herbs:
1 oz. chamomile flowers
1 oz. fennel seeds
1 oz. lime flowers
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 serving.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Make a weak infusion (see here), using 1 tsp. per mug of boiling water, brewed for 5 minutes and then strained.
Let cool and give 1–2 tsp. to baby on a teaspoon. (You can drink the rest.)
Any baby who can sip from a teaspoon is old enough for this tea. It can be served every day.
Salve for Eczema
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
INGREDIENTS
11/4 cups coconut oil
1 handful of a mixture of marigold petals, chamomile flowers, and lavender flowers (ideally fresh), coarsely chopped
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps 3–6 months.
METHOD
Gently heat the oil and the herbs in a double boiler or water bath for 3–4 hours. Strain and press through cheesecloth. Discard the herbs and pour the liquid into jars.
Apply generously to the affected area at night and morning, after gently washing the area with rosewater.
Meadowsweet Antidiarrhea Honey
Raw honey’s antibacterial properties can help to treat diarrhea. Combined with astringent, anti-inflammatory meadowsweet, it makes a delicious and useful remedy for infants’ and children’s diarrhea.
INGREDIENTS
1 (12-oz.) jar of honey
an equal amount of strong meadowsweet tea (see here; make with 11/2 cups boiling water over 1 oz. dried meadowsweet/1 handful of fresh)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 24 oz.
Keeps up to 1 year unopened. Once opened, keep in the refrigerator and use within 1–2 months.
METHOD
Add the honey to the hot tea, stirring well until it all has dissolved. Bottle.
Give 1 tsp. every 1–2 hours to treat an attack of diarrhea. Continue to give 2 tsp. daily for 5 days after the attack has passed.
Caution
Children can quickly become dehydrated if they have diarrhea. Replenish lost fluids with the “Lemon Sherbert” Rehydration Remedy (see here) and seek healthcare advice.
Mucus-Busting Tea
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 tsp. chamomile flowers
1/2 tsp. plantain leaves
1/2 tsp. elderflowers
2 cups boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 13/4 cups.
Keeps 4 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Mix the herbs together. Pour on the boiling water and let cool. Strain.
Give 2 tbsp. in a bottle or 6 tsp. off a spoon before feeding, 3 times daily.
Teething Rub
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
INGREDIENTS
1 tsp. dried chamomile flowers
1 mug of boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 mug.
Keeps 4 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Infuse the flowers in the water (see here) for 1 hour until cool.
Strain and soak a teething ring or cloth in the cold tea.
Give to the baby to suck, or rub onto sore gums, as needed.
Sore Throat Gargle
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
Many children love to gargle once they are old enough—which could be as young as 4 or 5, depending on the child.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1 mug of warm water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 mug, enough for 1 day.
Keeps up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Dissolve the turmeric and salt in the water.
Gargle frequently throughout the day.
Sweet Sleep Syrup
Helps a fractious child relax into sleep.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. chamomile
1/2 oz. catnip
1/2 oz. rosebuds or petals
2 cups rosewater
2 cups sugar, or 11/4 cups honey
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 21/2 cups.
Keeps 6–12 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Mix all the herbs together in a saucepan and add the rosewater. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from the heat. Let cool, then strain. Reduce the liquid to 11/4 cups by simmering. Make a syrup with the sugar or honey (see here).
Give 1–3 tsp. in a mug of hot milk or almond milk at bedtime.
Sweet Sleep Pillow for Children
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
11/2 oz. lime flowers, finely shredded
3/4 oz. lavender flowers
3/4 oz. rose petals
Essential oils:
5 drops lavender
3 drops rose
YOU WILL NEED
• ABOUT 12 X 8-INCH RECTANGULAR BAG OF COTTON CLOTH/SMALL PILLOWCASE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 pillow.
Keeps effective for 6 months or more.
METHOD
Mix the herbs well in a large bowl. Sprinkle on the oils. To make the pillow, fill the bag or pillowcase with the mix and be sure it’s sealed.
Place the herbal pillow beside the child’s ordinary pillow.
— Tip —
REFRESH THE PILLOW BY ADDING A FEW DROPS OF ESSENTIAL OILS EVERY NOW AND THEN TO KEEP IT SMELLING LOVELY. AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO A PILLOW, MAKE A “TRANQUIL TEDDY” BY STUFFING A FAVORITE CUDDLY TOY WITH EITHER OF THE SLEEP PILLOW HERB MIXTURES (SEE HERE AND HERE). REPLACE THE HERBAL MIXTURE AFTER 6–12 MONTHS.
Holy Sleep Pillow
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
Promotes sleep and pleasant dreams.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 oz. lavender flowers
2 oz. chamomile flowers
1 oz. holy basil
YOU WILL NEED
• ABOUT 12 X 8-INCH RECTANGULAR BAG OF COTTON CLOTH/SMALL PILLOWCASE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 pillow.
Keeps effective for 6 months or more.
METHOD
Make and use as for the Sweet Sleep Pillow for Children (see here).
— Tip —
YOU COULD ALSO PLACE THE HERBS LOOSE IN A BOWL BY YOUR BEDSIDE.
Calming Herbal Baths
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
This bath can be used daily or when a child is fussy, in pain or discomfort—or simply overenergized.
INGREDIENTS
Use 1 generous handful of any of these herbs (or mix any two or more of them):
chamomile flowers
lavender buds
rose petals
lemon balm leaves
YOU WILL NEED
• A STOCKING OR THIN SOCK
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes enough for 1 bath. If using dried herbs, you can prepare in advance; the dry mix will keep for 1 year.
METHOD
Place the herbs into a stocking or thin sock and knot it at the end to make an herbal bath bag. Tie it so that the hot water runs over it as you fill the bathtub. Fill the bathtub completely with hot water, then let it cool to a comfortable temperature. Squeeze the herbal bath bag to increase the strength of the infusion.
Sesame & Lavender Baby Oil
Courtesy of Anne Mclntyre
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sesame oil
30 drops lavender essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together.
Apply gently over the baby’s skin. Avoid contact with the eyes.
Soothing Oat Bath
A soothing alternative to bubble bath, good for any kind of itching or irritated skin. It also soothes chicken pox sores.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup rolled oats
YOU WILL NEED
• A SOCK
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 bath.
Keeps dry for 3–6 months in the bathroom.
METHOD
Put the oats into the sock. Tie it around the hot faucet so that the water runs through the oats as it fills the bathtub. Let the water cool to a comfortable temperature.
— Variation —
FOR A CALM AND SOOTHING BATH, ADD SOME OF THE HERBS SUGGESTED FOR THE CALMING HERBAL BATHS (SEE HERE) TO THE OATS.
Rash Ointment
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This will nourish your hands as well as your baby’s buttocks.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1 tbsp. chickweed leaves
1 tbsp. marshmallow root
1 tbsp. comfrey root or leaf
1/2 tsp. goldenseal or baical skullcap flowering tops
just under 1 cup sweet almond oil
6 tbsp. grated beeswax
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1 cup. Keeps 2 months.
METHOD
Infuse the herbs with the almond oil (see here). Gently cook for 2–3 hours in a double boiler. Strain, melt in the beeswax, and pour into jars.
Apply every time you change a diaper.
Vitamin Ice Pops
A good way to get healthy herbs into your child.
INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup Many Berry Syrup (see here)
11/2 cups cooled nettle tea (see here; make with 4 tsp. nettles infused in 12/3 cups boiling water for 10 minutes)
YOU WILL NEED
• POPSICLE MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 8–10 popsicles. Eat within 3 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze.
Eat 1–2 daily.
Anti-Allergy Ice Pops
These can help treat hay fever and pet allergies.
INGREDIENTS
11/2 cups nettle leaf tea (see make as for Vitamin Ice Pops)
1/3 cup elderflower syrup (see here)
YOU WILL NEED
• POPSICLE MOLDS OR ICE CUBE TRAYS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 16–20 popsicles.
Eat within 3 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients well. Freeze in popsicle molds or ice cube trays.
Eat 1–3 daily.
Special Baby Wipes
Courtesy of Anna Dowding
These guarantee permanently peachy buttocks …
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. best-quality Apple Cider Vinegar (see here)
2 tsp. calendula tincture (see here)
Essential oils:
3–4 drops tea tree
3–4 drops lavender
2 tsp. vegetable oil (either coconut, jojoba, or olive)
2 cups of water
YOU WILL NEED
• COTTON WIPES OR COTTON BALLS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 100–200 wipes. Keeps 6 months or more.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together in a quart jar. Squash in as many wipes or cotton balls as you can to soak up the mixture. Close the jar and keep it sealed until use.
Baby Powder for Dry Buttocks
An herbal alternative to talcum powder.
INGREDIENTS
4 tsp. cornstarch
3 tbsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. dried chamomile flowers, ground to a fine powder
5 drops lavender essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1/2 cup.
Keeps up to 6 months in an airtight container.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together. Sift the mixture a couple of times. Shake well before use.
— Variation —
FOR A STRONG POWDER TO HELP PREVENT AND TREAT ATHLETE’S FOOT, ADD ESSENTIAL OILS (30 DROPS TEA TREE AND 30 DROPS LAVENDER) TO THE MIXTURE.
Antioxidant-Rich Sunscreen
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
This makes a moderately strong sunscreen.
Read the section on cream-making techniques (see here) before you start.
INGREDIENTS
Oil phase:
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. olive oil
1/4 cup coconut oil
4 tsp. shea butter
11/2 tsp. liquid lecithin
11/2 tsp. grated beeswax
Water phase:
1 tbsp. fresh aloe gel
1/4 cup green tea infusion (see here)
3 tbsp. rosewater
20 drops carrot seed oil
Essential oils:
30 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops rosemary
5 drops peppermint
10 drops liquid vitamin D
5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
10 drops Walnut Flower Remedy (see here)
1 tbsp. zinc oxide
YOU WILL NEED
• A HAND BLENDER
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 1–3 months in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate between uses.
METHOD
Measure all the ingredients and have them ready to use before you begin.
Melt the oil phase ingredients in a double boiler. Put the aloe gel into a bowl and whip it into a foam with a handheld blender. Slowly drizzle the oil phase into the water phase. Blend well together for a couple of minutes.
Add the carrot seed oil, essential oils, vitamin D, vitamin E, Walnut Flower Remedy, and zinc oxide to the cream while blending.
Lice Treatment for Kids
Use this together with a good nit or lice comb.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup strong double decoction of quassia bark (see here)
50 drops/1/2 tsp. tea tree essential oil (not suitable for children under 7 years)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1 cup.
Enough for a 3-day treatment.
Use immediately.
Keeps up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together, only adding the tea tree essential oil if treating anyone over 7 years.
Wash the hair and apply a lot of conditioner, then comb through with a nit or lice comb.
Rinse hair, towel dry, and apply the treatment all over the head from root to tip. Wrap up in a towel and let dry.
Repeat daily for 3 days, and then again after 5 days. Note: Everyone in the house needs to be treated.
— Tip —
YOU MIGHT WANT TO USE 1/2 CUP OF THIS DECOCTION TO MAKE THE NIT-DETERRING CONDITIONER (SEE HERE).
AROMATIC WATERS
Distilling aromatic waters is a lot of fun—your kitchen will soon resemble an inventor’s laboratory. You can purchase a small copper still or make your own. Aromatic waters are wonderful products to use in foods, to take as medicines and aids for well-being, and to use on the skin, whether alone or as part of other recipes. If taken as medicines, the adult dose for aromatic waters is 2 tsp. 3 times daily.
All these recipes are courtesy of Joe Nasr.
Peppermint Water
This delicious aromatic water is perfect for treating heartburn and indigestion, and as a cooling lotion if applied to the skin.
INGREDIENTS
5 oz. dried peppermint (or 10 oz. fresh)
21/2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps at least a year.
METHOD
Place the peppermint and the water together in a pressure cooker. Make following the instructions for Gripe Water (see here).
Gripe Water
Primarily to give to babies for colic, but anyone with indigestion can take this.
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
2 oz. anise seeds
2 oz. fennel seeds
1 oz. dill seeds
21/2 quarts water
YOU WILL NEED
• PRESSURE COOKER
• 1/4-INCH SILICONE HOSE (FROM BREWER’S HARDWARE)
• POSSIBLY A HOT PLATE, DEPENDING ON THE POSITION OF YOUR STOVE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups. Keeps at least a year.
METHOD
Put the seeds and water into a pressure cooker on a counter near the sink (use a hotplate if necessary). Close the lid and remove the pressure regulator to expose the vent pipe (steam exit).
Connect the hose to the vent pipe. Pass the hose beneath the water faucet and then on and into a collecting glass bottle (10 fl. oz.).
Turn on the heat to high. When the water boils, open the faucet to let cold water flow around and cool the hose.
Simmer on low heat. To obtain a good-quality water, the distillation process should be slow with minimum heat; the distillate should not be warm to the touch but cool, ideally 95°F. Simmer until you have distilled 11/4 cups of gripe water (which in a household pressure cooker should take around 30–45 minutes).
Infants: Give 10–20 drops in water or milk up to twice daily.
Breastfeeding mothers: Take 1–11/2 tsp. 3 times daily after meals.
Adults: Take 1–2 tsp. for indigestion.
Lavender Water
Aromatic water of lavender can be used on its own as a healing and calming tonic (for inside and outside the body), or added to other recipes.
INGREDIENTS
5 oz. dried lavender flowers (10 oz. of fresh)
21/2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Make in the same way as for Gripe Water (see here).
— Variation —
YOU COULD SUBSTITUTE HALF THE LAVENDER FOR ROSE BUDS TO MAKE ROSE AND LAVENDER WATER.
Rosemary Water
A delicious flavoring for foods, this is also a hair tonic, a toner for the skin, and a medicine to help circulation and memory.
INGREDIENTS
5 oz. dried rosemary (10 oz. of fresh)
21/2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps 2 years.
METHOD
Make as for Gripe Water (see here).
Lemon Balm Water
This lovely, lemony water uplifts the mood, helps treat headaches, and is an antiviral. It is especially good against the herpes viruses.
INGREDIENTS
5 oz. dried lemon balm (10 oz. of fresh)
21/2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Make as for Gripe Water (see here).
Rose & Chamomile Water
This is a soothing skin lotion, great as a spray for hives and for sore skin, including sunburn. It can be taken internally for the stomach and the womb.
INGREDIENTS
4 oz. dried chamomile flowers
4 oz. dried aromatic rose (must be organic)
21/2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/4 cups.
Keeps for 6 months.
METHOD
Make as for Gripe Water (see here)
PETS’ CORNER
Animals can be treated similarly to people, although some animals should not have some herbs. Only use these recipes for the specified animals, unless advised otherwise by a qualified holistic veterinarian. These recipes are safe for home use; if in doubt, always consult a veterinarian.
For the tinctures provided by holistic veterinarian Barbara Jones, either buy the tinctures, or make your own according to the method given in the Key Preservation Techniques, (see here). They all keep for 2 years or more. For all the tinctures, mix together in a bottle and use as instructed.
Valerian & Catnip Cat Toy
Cats love the smell of these herbs, particularly the valerian.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. dried valerian root, finely chopped
1 tbsp. catnip
YOU WILL NEED
• MATERIAL AND A SEWING KIT TO MAKE A SMALL TOY “MOUSE”
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1.
Your cat will hunt the mouse down before it goes off.
METHOD
Mix the herbs well. Sew a mouse-shape small bag, leaving the tail end open. Stuff it full with the herb mixture.
Sew up tightly and add a string “tail” to the mouse.
Mange Treatment for Animals
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
This stinks, but works!
INGREDIENTS
3 heads garlic, coarsely chopped
2 handfuls of fresh elder leaves and stems, finely chopped
2 quarts water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 11/2 quarts.
Keeps 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Simmer the herbs in the water for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let sit overnight. Then strain and bottle.
Apply directly to affected areas twice daily until free of mange.
Animal Eardrops
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. mullein oil (see here)
2 drops thyme essential oil
1 tsp. Heal-All Marigold Oil (see here)
1 tsp. garlic infused oil (see here; make by infusing 2 crushed garlic cloves in 2 tsp. vegetable oil, let sit for 1–2 weeks, then strain)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/4 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together in a dropper bottle for easy use.
Put 2 drops into the animal’s ears twice a day.
Scratch Pet Flea Remedy for Cats & Dogs
Courtesy of Louise Idoux
INGREDIENTS
4 tsp. neem oil
4 tsp./20ml wormwood tincture (see here)
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp. grapeseed oil
Essential oils:
2 drops lemon
2 drops orange
2 drops grapefruit
2 drops cedarwood
2 drops eucalyptus
2 drops citronella
2 drops lavender
2 drops sage
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1/3 cup.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Gently melt the neem oil over low heat. Mix all the ingredients together and bottle.
Shake before use, then rub it well into fur. In cold weather, warm the mixture gently before applying.
Dogs’ Upset Stomach Powder
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
INGREDIENTS
1 oz. dried chamomile, ground
2 oz. dried slippery elm powder
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3 oz. Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix together well.
Add 1 tsp. per 66 lb. weight of dog to each meal.
Alternatively, give chamomile powder on its own, 1 tsp. with each meal.
Continue use for 1–2 days after symptoms cease.
Chronic Diarrhea Medicine for Pets
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
Chronic diarrhea can be a symptom of something serious; if it doesn’t clear up quickly, see a veterinarian.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tbsp./30ml frankincense
1 tbsp./15ml echinacea
4 tsp./20ml goldenseal (or baical skullcap)
1 tbsp./15ml marigold
4 tsp./20ml chamomile
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 2 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Give cats 3–5 drops 3 times daily.
Give dogs 1 tsp. for each 66 lb. weight of dog 3 times daily.
Pets’ Mouthwash
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
For problem teeth, ulcers, and infections.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tbsp./30ml marigold (made with a 190 proof alcohol)
2 tbsp./30ml echinacea
2 tsp./10ml goldenseal (or baical skullcap)
2 tbsp./30ml chamomile
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2 years.
METHOD
Mix the tinctures together in a bottle.
Dilute 1 tsp. of the liquid in a mug of water, and flush through the pet’s mouth with a syringe from side to side. Alternatively, use a sponge to apply to the gums. (Pets don’t need to swallow it, although it doesn’t hurt them if they do.)
Animal Eyewash
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
For sticky eyes.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
1 tsp./5ml eyebright
1 tsp./5ml lemon balm
1 tsp./5ml chamomile
1 tsp./5ml goldenseal
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 4 tsp.
Use immediately.
METHOD
Bathe the eyes 2–3 times daily with 1/4 tsp. in just under 1/4 cup cooled boiled water. Make the eyewash fresh each time.
Dogs’ Arthritis Medicine
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml devil’s claw
4 tsp./20ml nettle leaf
2 tbsp./30ml meadowsweet
2 tsp./10ml boswelia
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2 years.
METHOD
Mix together in a bottle.
Add 1 tsp. for each 66 lb. weight of dog to food 3 times daily.
Caution
Treating cats with arthritis is more difficult because salicylates are bad for them. Consult a holistic veterinarian regarding your cat’s arthritis.
Pets’ Liver Tonic
Courtesy of Barbara Jones
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (see here):
2 tbsp./30ml milk thistle
2 tbsp./30ml dandelion root
4 tsp./20ml schisandra berry
4 tsp./20ml bupleurum root
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2 years.
METHOD
Mix together in a bottle.
Give cats 3–5 drops 3 times daily.
Give dogs 1 tsp. for each 66 lb weight of dog 3 times daily.
Immune Booster for Horses
Courtesy of Lesley Cunningham
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
17 oz. rubbed nettles
17 oz. clivers
17 oz. marigold flowers
17 oz. dandelion leaves
4 oz. rose hips, chopped
4 oz. burdock root, chopped
8 oz. echinacea roots and tops, chopped
MAKES & KEEPS
A sack of mix to last around 10 weeks.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Place all the ingredients in a large sack. Mix the herbs well.
Add 3 generous handfuls to your horses’ feed daily.
Horses’ Wart Remedy
Courtesy of Lesley Cunningham
An old recipe for simple warts.
INGREDIENTS
1 fresh dandelion root or flower stem
METHOD
Squeeze the milky white dandelion juice onto the wart 2–3 times daily.
Continue use until the wart has gone.
For persistent warts, use together with the Immune Booster for Horses (see here).
Horses’ Antifungal Hoof Paint
Courtesy of Lesley Cunningham
Thrush in horses occurs when the frogs of the hooves become infected.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup of vegetable oil (walnut, grapeseed, or sunflower)
Essential oils:
50 drops/1/2 tsp. tea tree
50 drops/1/2 tsp. lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup, enough for about 20 applications.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together in a jar.
Ask a horse expert to trim the frogs, removing all dead tissue. Wash the hoof with strong salt water.
Paint the whole area around the frog 2–3 times daily, washing the hoof before each application.
Sarcoids Cream for Horses
Courtesy of Dedj Leibbrandt
INGREDIENTS
6 tbsp. + 2 tsp. castor oil
1/4 cup emulsifying wax
3/4 cup + 5 tsp. chelidonium tea (see here; make with 1 generous handful of fresh herb in 1 mug of boiling water, infuse for 15 minutes with the lid on, then strain)
Tinctures (see here):
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml bloodroot
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp./50ml white cedar
Comfrey Cream for Speedy Healing (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 33/4 cups.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Make the cream using the same method described for Comfrey Cream (see here). Then mix this cream with an equal amount of Comfrey Cream.
Apply 1–2 times daily. Note: This could take a year to be effective, but it works.
Vitamin E Rich Healing Salve for Animals & People
Courtesy of Lesley Cunningham
INGREDIENTS
just under 2 cups olive oil infused with marigold flowers (see here)
just under 1/4 cup avocado oil
just under 1/4 cup vitamin E oil (or another just under 1/4 cup avocado oil)
1/4 cup beeswax, grated or broken into small pieces
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 21/2 cups ointment.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the oils and make into a salve with the beeswax (see Solomon’s Salves).
Apply as needed to wounds.
— Tip —
THIS HEALING SALVE IS GREAT FOR COWS’ UDDERS THAT ARE SORE FROM MASTITIS OR OVERMILKING. IT’S ALSO HEALING FOR BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS.
— Variation —
FOR SKIN INFECTIONS, ADD 4 HEADS GARLIC CLOVES SEPARATED, PEELED, AND CHOPPED, AND INFUSE WITH THE MARIGOLD FLOWERS. THE GARLIC HAS A POWERFUL EXTRA ANTI-INFECTIOUS ACTION.