DIY Remedies Archives - Jovanka Ciares

‘Natural’ and ‘Safe” Are Not Always The Same

The use of medicinal plants is increasingly widespread in society. They are used seemingly for anything: from weight loss, to sleep, to stress management.

In short, to feel better. But we must always ask ourselves the following question: Is natural always safe? Today’s video will try to answer this question.

Medicinal plants are an important therapeutic arsenal that nature offers us. They have been the first medicines of Humanity and have served as a model for the subsequent development of most industrial medicines.

They are generally safe and are widely used to treat mild ailments but, since they are products that have a clear pharmacological activity, it is essential to take into account that they do not interact with other drugs that we are taking or that they may be counterproductive for other diseases that we suffer.

People who take anticoagulant drugs, for example, have to be especially careful since they are using very complicated treatments that interact with a multitude of medicinal plants, such as green anise, common chamomile. People with high blood pressure may need to be careful about using licorice as it tends to raise it.

People with thyroid problems should also be especially careful, for example, with seaweed-based preparations, as they can provide an extra amount of iodine that can affect their pathology.

Pregnant and lactating women should also be especially careful not to take any medicinal plant without first consulting their doctor or pharmacist; this is the case of the use of aloe vera to treat constipation in pregnant women (it is a laxative of the so-called irritants that can cause contractions, so it should not be used).

These are just some examples, but the recommendation we give you is the convenience of always asking a healthcare professional about whether a certain product can be used together with the specific medication and diseases of each person.

So, the morale of the story is: do not try medicinal plants without researching them first and preferably only after going to your registered herbalist for advice and choose the most appropriate for you.

Homemade Spray To Relieve Muscle And Joint Pain

Aches and pains due to muscle or joint issues? This remedy blend is super fast and easy to make, can be made cold (no need to heat the oils) and the result seems good to me. It is effective, fast and very simple to do. Also, everyone who doesn’t like the feel of oily and sticky creams loves this spray too.

Check out the video here and the ingredients and written instructions below

Ingredients

2 ounces of 70% + alcohol pharmacy alcohol.

1 oz of menthol crystals.

1.5 oz of camphor crystals.

35 drops of turpentine essential oil

35 drops of wintergreen essential oil

5 drops chamomile essential oil

Process

Weigh the menthol and camphor crystals using a scale.
In a clean, dry, wide-mouth glass jar, add the rubbing alcohol and then the crystals.
Shake well until the crystals have dissolved in the alcohol. The crystals should dissolve perfectly at room temperature.
Now add the drops of essential oil, close and shake again. I
Package in a dark glass container with spray, very clean and dry.
Store it in the cupboard or bathroom cabinet, away from light, heat, and moisture. And away from children.

Ways of use and precautions

First and foremost, they cannot use it: pregnant women, during lactation, small children under 8 years old. We must be very careful with people who are asthmatic or sensitive to aromas.

We must be careful with the mucous membranes (eyes, nose and mouth) and we must not apply it to open wounds.

It is applied as a normal spray on the area where we feel pain, for example, a sore ankle, a sprain, a contracture, etc. The ideal is to apply it and cover it with a gauze or bandage and let it act. It can even be used before or after a massage, depending on what we see.

We can use it one to two times a day safely, for several days in a row.

Best Digestive Tea Blend After a Large Meal

Digestion is a complex process that involves many organs in our body. Correct digestion, among other things, is essential for the body to assimilate the necessary nutrients to carry out its vital functions.

Stress, a heavier than normal meal, ultra-processed foods, changes in routine, excess cold or heat … All these things can influence your digestion and when faced with the discomfort of poor digestion, plants may be your allies.

The ideal is to take it after a large meal, to facilitate the digestive process and reduce the effects of heavy digestion (bloating, gas, heartburn, general discomfort). To aid digestion after a heavy meal you can take a digestive infusion made with three very special herbs. Check the video and directions below:

Digestive Infusion

Mint 50%

Licorice 25%

Fennel Seeds 25%

Mix all the ingredients following the indicated proportions and add to a glass jar, mixing thoroughly. When ready, use a single level tablespoon of herbal tea for every 250 ml (8 oz) of hot water. Avoid scalding hot or boiling water.

During the warm season you can also have this infusion cold and enjoy it as a flavored drink to finish your meals and dinners.

5 Plants that Can Strengthen Your Immunity and How To Use Them

People often ask me how seasonal foods and medicinal plants can be an ally to increase their defenses. According to the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) the vitamins and other micronutrients contained in certain foods can contribute to the proper functioning of the immune system.

Other studies show that malnourished people are more exposed to infections and diseases due to the lack of nutrients.

Despite the fact that a person who follows a healthy life will hardly have a lack of vitamins or mineral salts, it is possible that, at times, their immune defenses may be more exposed to attacks by viruses and bacteria.

The change of seasons are usually key moments for our immune system. In addition, stress and bad habits like smoking poor sleep and excessive alcohol intake are other factors that can affect the functioning of your defenses and weaken our immune system.

That’s where some of the amazing botanicals I love the most come to play! These are plants that, when used in combination with a whole foods plant-based diet, exercising and resting correctly are amazing tools that could make a difference in your ability to stave off disease. Check them out here:

1. Echinacea. It is probably one of the most used plants in natural preparations against flu and colds. Echinacea root extracts have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects (stimulate or depress the immune system) in in vitro and in vivo experiments.

2. Thyme. It is rich in flavonoids and tannins, substances that help to strengthen the defenses, and essential oils with bactericidal properties. Using thyme in the kitchen is a very good idea not only to strengthen our defenses, but to improve digestion.

3. Rose Hip. It contains above all vitamin C and flavonoids, important antioxidants that strengthen our defenses and help prevent colds and flu.

4. Garlic. It is a great ally of health and should not be missing in our kitchens. It is renowned for its protective properties of the circulatory system and for being an antioxidant. In addition, garlic extracts have shown antiviral activity, among others.

5. Sea buckthorn. The fruit of this plant has traditionally been used as a topical healing and anti-inflammatory.

Teas In Bulk Versus Tea In Sachets + Which One Is Best?

Before I started researching medicinal plants and studying herbal medicine, I used to drink infusions in ready-made sachets. There are amazing brands and blends on the market, to meet all tastes and needs. However, over time I have moved to buying herbal blends in bulk and avoiding the use of tea bags and herbal teas. Why?

For several reasons:

Taste: The aroma and flavor of an infusion prepared with loose or fresh plants are usually better than that of infusions in a sachet.

Process: The preparation of an infusion for me is a ritual, I enjoy every detail, the aroma, the colors, the calm … Dedicating a few quality minutes each day to take care of ourselves either with an infusion, a little exercise or reading a book, it should be imperative. Do not you think?

Savings: Infusions in sachets tend to be more expensive compared to bulk plants.

Quality: The raw material contained in the bags and stored for a long time can lose its properties. The same happens with loose plants, but if they are acquired in a trustworthy place and stored correctly, they last longer and keep the active principles unchanged.

Safety: Acquiring infusions in bulk in trusted establishments is synonymous with security. We can ask about the origin and date of production of the plant. The material used to produce the sachets often contains plastic and other toxic products. So it is appropriate to read the packaging or ask the manufacturer. If you want to know more about this point, I suggest you read this article on Living without plastic.

This doesn’t mean there aren’t amazing advantages of using tea in little bags.

First and foremost, in this form they are easier to take to the office or when you go on a trip. But also:

Blend Variety: The blends, or blends, are created to provide a tasty infusion. There are them with mixtures of very varied herbs and spices for all palates.

Easy to Get: They are found in any supermarket, herbalist, or health food store.

In short, if you want to enjoy a good infusion and let the process become part of your ritual, very pleasant and relaxing… AND if you dare to create your own mixes it will be even more entertaining to savor the final result in a cup.

If you don’t want to give up a good infusion when you travel or at work, infusions and tea bags are perfect in these situations. You just have to choose the ones that best suit your needs and tastes.

So tell me: do you prefer infusions and tea in bulk or in bags? I wait for you in the comments!

5 Aromatic Plants That are Also Medicinal

Do you know the difference between aromatic and medicinal plants? Do not worry, it is a fairly frequent question since, despite the different definitions of medicinal and aromatic plants, many times the same plant can fit into the two categories.

What is the difference between aromatic and medicinal plants?

Both medicinal and aromatic plants have been present in our culture since ancient times. First, let’s review the definition of aromatic and medicinal plants:

Aromatic plants, also known as aromatic herbs or fine herbs, are characterized by their perfume and flavor. Its green leaves are usually the edible and nutrient-rich part and for this reason they are used for cooking.

Medicinal plants are those that contain in one or more parts active compounds that are beneficial for the health of humans and animals. If you want to know more about this topic, you can read the post “Medicinal plants: history, types, uses”.

The difference between the two concepts is in the plant’s use. While the former are used above all for culinary use, so they are edible; the latter have healing properties, but not all of them can be ingested.

Here are some examples of aromatic plants with medicinal properties.

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

It is a very aromatic and common herb of Mediterranean cuisine that is also curative.

Its active principles promote digestion and stimulate the appetite.

2. Rosemary (Rosmarinus)

It is another herb very commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Its essential oils and chemical compounds have a carminative (reduces gas) and hepatoprotective effect. Scientific studies are also investigating the antioxidant properties of this aromatic and medicinal plant.

3. Sage

A plant with a delicate and unique aroma, ideal for flavoring all kinds of dishes. It is also traditionally used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties to relieve and prevent inflammation of the oral cavity.

4. Thyme

It is a plant with a very intense and balsamic aroma. The European Medicines Agency validates the use of this plant for the relief of flu states and coughs based on the traditional use of this plant. Find out more about thyme here.

5. Mint

The fresh and intense aroma of this plant is unmistakable and that is why it is used in many sectors, from the pharmaceutical industry, to perfumery and food. The leaves of this aromatic herb are rich in essential oils and other compounds that alleviate disorders related to poor digestion.

Do you take advantage of the medicinal properties of any aromatic plant? Let me know in the comments below.

How To Get Rid of Intestinal Parasites… Naturally

There are home remedies that are prepared with botanicals like peppermint, rue and mugwort, which have anti-parasitic properties, and are very efficient in eliminating parasites and intestinal worms.

These can be used every 6 months or in small doses on a regular basis to keep the intestine clean, but can also be used after confirmation of the presence of pinworms as a way to complement the treatment indicated by the doctor. It is important to remember that in the case of pregnant women, nursing women or children, it is important to first consult a doctor before ingesting them.

Here are 5 home remedies with anti-parasitic actions traditionally used to manage intestinal parasites. They are:

1. Rue tea with papaya seeds

The home remedy with papaya and rue is optimal in the treatment of worms, since rue is a powerful anthelmintic.

Ingredients

1/2 tablespoon of papaya seeds;

1 tablespoon of dried rue leaves;

1 cup of water.

Preparation mode

Place the ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Then it should be strained and drunk warm, during the day.

2. Turmeric tea

7 home remedies to kill parasites and intestinal worms

Another good home remedy to treat intestinal parasites is turmeric tea (curcuma longa), because this root has curcumin as an active principle, which according to some studies, inhibits the growth of some pathogens, including helminths and protozoa. In addition to this, turmeric is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients

12 ounces of water;

1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.

Preparation mode

Boil the water and add the teaspoon of turmeric, let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day between meals.

3. Olive oil with garlic

7 home remedies to kill parasites and intestinal worms

Garlic is optimal for the elimination of intestinal worms and can be consumed raw, but it can also be consumed daily as a flavored oil, as it maintains its anthelmintic properties.

Ingredients

16 ounces of olive oil;

1 branch of rosemary;

3 cloves of peeled garlic.

Preparation mode

In a bottle of approximately 700 ml place the peeled and gently crushed garlic cloves and then add the oil and the rosemary branch. Close and store in a dry, moisture-free place for at least 10 days. Use this oil to cook food and to dress salads or soups.

See all the health benefits of garlic.

4. Mugwort tea

Mugwort is excellent for eliminating intestinal parasites due to its antiparasitic properties, its scientific name is mugwort vulgaris.

Ingredients

20 g of artemisia leaves;

32 ounces of boiling water.

Preparation mode

Add the leaves to the boiling water and let it rest for 5 minutes. Strain and drink when hot 3 times a day.

5. Anise tea

Anise tea also has anthelmintic action, being useful to complement the treatment against intestinal parasites.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of anise seeds;

1 cup of boiling water.

Preparation mode

Place the seeds in the boiling water and let it rest for 8 minutes. Strain and take after meals. Learn more about anise and its properties.

Herbal Blends for Gallbladder Stones

The presence of gallstones causes symptoms including vomiting, nausea, and pain in the right side of the abdomen or in the back. The size of these stones is variable, and can be like a grain of sand up to the size of a golf ball.

Gallstones that are very large can only be removed with shock wave therapy or surgery, but small stones can be removed through the intake of medications and / or with the use of some natural treatments, plant under the doctor’s guidance.

An excellent home remedy to eliminate small stones from the gallbladder is to drink 100 mL of water every hour until you can ingest 2 liters of water throughout the day. This will allow the gallbladder to relax, thus reducing the swelling and painful sensation caused by gallstones.

Other excellent home remedies to remove small gallstones are:

1. Black radish juice

Black radish is a root that has substances in its composition that prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the gallbladder, helping to prevent and eliminate the stones that form on this site. It can also be used to reduce fat accumulated in the liver and as an antioxidant agent, reducing the effects of aging.

Ingredients

3 black radishes;

1-2 glass of water;

1 teaspoon of natural sweetener

Preparation mode

Wash the radishes and blend them together with the cold water and honey, until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Then serve the juice in a glass and drink up to 2 times per day.

2. Dandelion Tea

Dandelion is a plant known to combat digestive problems, acting mainly on the liver and the gallbladder, because it has choleretic effects, that is, it promotes increased bile flow by helping to expel stones from the gallbladder.

Ingredients

3 Tbsp of dried dandelion leaves;

16-20 ounces of water.

Preparation mode

Boil the water and place the dried dandelion leaves, cover and let it rest for 10 minutes. Next, you must strain the infusion and drink warm. It can be ingested 3 times a day.

3. Artichoke

Popularly, artichoke is a plant used to treat various health problems such as anemia, hemorrhoids, rheumatism, and pneumonia. Some studies show that it is also a plant used to eliminate stones in the gallbladder because it stimulates the production of bile, helping not only the gallbladder but also liver function.

Ingredients

2 to 5 mL of artichoke tincture

12 of room temp. water

Preparation mode

Dilute the artichoke tincture in water and drink the mixture up to 3 times a day.

4. Peppermint essential oil

The essential oil of peppermint can help to eliminate stones in the gallbladder, 0.2 mL of this oil should be taken, once a day, to cause the desired effect. However, it is possible to prepare peppermint tea, because it is also recommended for the treatment of these types of health problems.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons whole or crushed dried peppermint leaves or 2 to 3 fresh leaves

16 ounces of boiling water

Preparation mode

Place the peppermint leaves in a teacup and fill it with boiling water. Let the infusion rest for 5 to 7 minutes, strain and drink 3 to 4 times a day, preferably after meals.

5. Milk thistle

Milk thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is a natural remedy widely used to treat liver problems and gallbladder stones, because the main compound in this plant is silymarin. In general, the extracts of this plant can be bought in pharmacies or in natural stores in the form of capsules, but milk thistle fruit tea can also be used.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon of crushed milk thistle fruits;

1 cup of water.

Preparation mode

Boil the water and place the crushed milk thistle fruits, let the infusion rest for 10 minutes. After this time, you should strain the infusion and drink 3 to 4 cups of tea per day.

Stress Causing Your Blood Pressure to Rise? Try One Of These

Does all the stress of today’s work making your blood pressure rise? The world of herbal medicine has a lot to offer and I wanted to share a bunch of them here.

Although these home remedies are useful to supplement treatment for high blood pressure, they should only be taken with the knowledge of the cardiologist, as they are not a substitute for medications prescribed by the doctor.

Check out these 5 remedies (with recipes) to learn what to do when your blood pressure rises.

1. Garlic water

Garlic water is an excellent way to regulate blood pressure because it stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which is a gas with a strong vasodilator action, which facilitates blood circulation and reduces pressure on the heart.

In addition to this, garlic is an excellent ally to maintain the cardiovascular health of anyone, because it has incredible antioxidant and protective properties of blood vessels that prevent the emergence of problems such as atherosclerosis.

An excellent way to consume garlic is by drinking garlic flavored water or its capsules throughout the day.

Ingredients:

1 clove of raw garlic, peeled and crushed;

12-16 oz of water.

Preparation mode

Place the garlic clove in a glass of water and let it steep for 6 to 8 hours (while sleeping, for example) and drink this water on an empty stomach the next morning, or prepare a liter of garlic water and drink throughout the day.

In addition to this water, garlic can be ingested throughout the day with food, being easier to ingest than water. A good tip is to add a few garlic cloves to the olive oil. Thus, whenever you use olive oil, in addition to consuming a good fat, you will also be using the properties of garlic.

2. Lemon juice

A good home remedy to control high blood pressure is to drink lemonade mixed with coconut water because this juice has diuretic properties that help regulate blood pressure.

Ingredients

3 lemons;

20 ounces of coconut water.

Preparation mode

Mix the ingredients very well and drink next. Take 1 time a day.

3. Hibiscus flower tea

The hibiscus flower, also known as hibiscus, is a plant that has been widely used during the weight loss process. However, this plant has other important effects, such as lowering blood pressure. This occurs because it is rich in anthocyanins, which are flavonoids that help regulate blood pressure.

However, for best results darker flower calyxes should be used. The calyxes are the structures that connect the flower’s tail to the petals. The darker the flowers, the greater the amount of anthocyanins and the greater their effect on lowering blood pressure.

Ingredients

½ tsp of dried hibiscus flower;

1 cup of boiling water.

Preparation mode

Place the calyxes of the hibiscus flower inside the mug and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Then strain and drink 1 to 2 times a day, keeping at least 8 hours between one cup and another.

Although there are still no studies that prove, it is possible that hibiscus is toxic above the daily dose of 6 grams. So it is advised that the indicated dose is not increased.

Hibiscus flower tea can have a rather bitter taste, so if necessary, you can add a small spoonful of stevia or honey to sweeten it.

4. Valerian tea

Valerian roots contain excellent calming and relaxing properties that help improve blood circulation. In addition to this, because it is very calming and acts directly on the neurotransmitter GABA, valerian can be used especially in people who have frequent anxiety attacks, which can cause an increase in blood pressure.

Ingredients

2-3 Tbsp of valerian root;

1 cup with boiling water.

Preparation mode

Place the valerian root in the cup with the boiling water, letting it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink 2 to 3 times a day. In some people this tea can cause drowsiness during the day, and in these cases it should be used only before sleeping.

5. Olive leaf tea

Olive leaves are one of the best natural remedies for high blood pressure, because through the action of their polyphenols they manage to regulate blood pressure and lower it, without causing risk of hypotension, even if they have been consumed in excess.

In addition to this, they also cause a mild calming and relaxing effect that helps control symptoms in people who suffer from constant anxiety.

Ingredients

2 to 3 tablespoons of dried olive leaves;

1 cup with boiling water.

Preparation mode

Place the olive leaves in a cup of boiling water, letting it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm 3 to 4 cups throughout the day.

In addition to tea, there is also olive leaf extract, which can be bought in natural product stores in capsules, which can be consumed in a dose of 500mg, 2 times a day after.

4 Ways to Manage Stomach Reflux and Heartburn

An excellent home remedy for heartburn is to eat 1 toast or 2 crackers, since they absorb the acid that is causing the acidity in the larynx and throat, reducing the burning sensation.

Other options are to suck on a pure lemon at the moment that the acidity arises, because the lemon, despite being acidic, helps reduce this symptom; or you can also eat a slice of raw potato as it is capable of neutralizing acidity, fighting discomfort in a few moments. Learn more about heartburn.

However, there are a lot of DIY herbal and remedies that can be easily prepared at home and used throughout the day, especially for those who suffer from reflux and often have a heartburn crisis. Some of them are:

1. Baking soda

Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda when diluted in water has an alkaline effect on the digestive tract and as a consequence decreases the acidity of the stomach, the inflammation in the esophagus and relieves the discomfort caused by heartburn.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon of baking soda;

8 ounces of water.

Preparation mode

Mix the ingredients and take this mixture in small sips.

2. Fennel tea

Home remedies for heartburn

Fennel tea also contains excellent anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve inflammation of the stomach and a burning sensation in the throat.

In addition to promoting gastric emptying and can be used in case of reflux to reduce the onset of heartburn.

Ingredients

1 cup of boiling water;

1 tablespoon of fennel bulb cut.

Preparation mode

Add the fennel to the boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes, then strain and drink 2 to 3 times a day or 20 minutes before the main meals.

3. Pear Juice

Home remedies for heartburn

Those who do not like tea can choose to drink a freshly made pear juice, as it helps fight heartburn and burning, improving digestion. To prepare, you only need to blend 2 ripe pears with a little water, and if necessary you can add a few drops of lemon so that the juice does not darken.

Pear is semi-acidic, rich in vitamins A, B, and C and mineral salts such as sodium, potassium, iron, and calcium, which help dilute stomach acid and relieve the discomfort and burning caused by heartburn.

In addition to the pear, there are other fruits that have the same properties and that can be used to make other juices, such as: ripe banana, red apple and melon.

4. Licorice tea

Home remedies for heartburn

Licorice, is a medicinal plant with which you can make tea and is known to improve the symptoms of respiratory problems, however, it is also used in cases of gastric ulcers and to relieve the sensation of acidity and burning.

Ingredients

½ ounce of licorice root;

16 ounces of water (1/2 liter) of water.

Three Ways to Combat Dandruff Naturally

Struggling with dandruff? Many of us do. Dandruff can be caused by a variety of reasons: from poor hygiene and low-quality hair products, to fungal infections, eczema, psoriasis or other serious health conditions.

Depending on the reasons for your struggles with dandruff, you should get your scalp checked by a dermatologist to rule out any serious problems.

The 3 herbal blends mentioned below will work for most people as they are to be used topically only and can be used in combination with medicated shampoo.

Coconut with Lemon:

Lemon is a key ingredient in most of the hair care remedies.

Mix the juice of a full lemon

4 Tbsp of warm coconut oil (do not microwave)

Apply on the scalp

Massage and cover your head with a plastic bag

Leave it for 30 mins

Shampoo and set as normal

Aloe Vera:
Ideally you want to find fresh aloe from the thick plant leaves but if that’s not available, you can buy a high-quality extract in your local health food store.

Use 5-6 Tbsps of gel extract and apply in your scalp only late at night

Let it dry out a little before going to bed, leaving it overnight

Shampoo and set as normal in the morning.

Camphor Oil with Coconut oil:

This remedy is skin friendly and coconut has anti-fungal properties so it gives you a one-two punch approach to help your scalp heal.

Mix 1 Tbsp of camphor or a single camphor tablet (if they come in hard tablets, warm them up first until it melts)

Add 4-5 Tbsp of coconut oil

Keep in a small bottle and apply nightly to the scalp

How to Manage Sore Throat, Inflammation, Laryngitis and Cough

There are a few ways to calm and relieve a sore throat and persistent cough using natural remedies. People who want to use natural remedies to treat sore throat and cough should look for various resources, and do your research regarding herbs and supplements that can help, taking into account any medications they may be taking, which can lead to unwanted side effects.

If you have a severe or persistent cough for a few weeks, it is essential that you see a doctor.

If you want to try herbal remedies to help you with the pesky cough and sore throat try the three featured in today’s blog to start with!

Marshmallow root

Marshmallow root is a herb widely used throughout history as a treatment for coughs and sore throats. The herb can improve the irritation produced by cough, due to its high content of mucilage. It is a thick, sticky substance that covers the throat.

In another small study, it was revealed that an herbal cough syrup with marshmallow root, thyme, and ivy relieved coughs caused by common colds and respiratory tract infections. After 12 days of taking the syrup, 90 percent of the participants rated its effectiveness as good or very good.

Marshmallow root is also available as a dried herb or tea bag. Add warm (not hot) water and drink it immediately or let it cool first. The longer the marshmallow root stays in the water, the more mucilage it will drink.

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme that comes from pineapples and is most abundant in the heart of the fruit.

Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties and can also have mucolytic properties, which means that it can shrink the mucosa and remove it from the body.

Some people drink pineapple juice on a daily basis to reduce the lining of the throat and eliminate the cough. However, there is not too much bromelain in the juice to relieve symptoms.

You can find bromelain supplements at a store and they can be more effective at eliminating coughs. However, it is best to speak to a doctor before trying new supplements.

Thyme

Thyme has both culinary and medicinal uses and is a common remedy for coughs, sore throats, bronchitis, and digestive problems.

A study showed that a cough syrup with thyme and ivy relieved a cough more effectively and faster than a placebo syrup in people with acute bronchitis. The antioxidants that make up the plant may be responsible for its benefits.

To treat cough with thyme, look for a specific syrup that contains this type of herb. Alternatively, brew a cup of tea and add two tablespoons of dried thyme to one cup of hot water. Let stand 10 minutes before straining and drinking.

2-Herb Blend To Help You Lose Weight

In these stressful times when we need feel good experiences, it is very common for people to increase the amount of sugar and sugary-converted foods as they trigger the release of serotonin and beta-endorphins, soothing us and making us feel better, at least temporarily.

These include not just sugary treats but simple refined carbohydrates that are easily converted to glucose (sugar), like bread, white rice white pasta and others.

Unfortunately, and as you probably know, sugar overuse can lead to some serious health issues including obesity, heart disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type-2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, hormone irregularity, and depressed mood and anxiety.

In my practice as an herbalist, I often get asked what to do to help control sugar cravings while you take other steps to learn how to eat and have a better relationship with your foods.

I’ve mentioned one of the 2 herbs here before, the other one may be new to you. But both of them in combination are even more powerful to kill sugar cravings and assist in your weight loss journey.

Fenugreek Seeds

These seeds taste a little sweet and are often used in Indian cuisine, both sweet and savory dishes.

It is an antioxidant herb used to manage metabolic disorders like diabetes or anemia, clear excessive mucus and reduce inflammation

Fenugreek can be used to control sugar cravings and even blood sugar effectively. A study published in the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, “fenugreek delayed the onset of diabetes in subjects with prediabetes and even helped to reduce fasting plasma glucose, postprandial fasting glucose, and LDL cholesterol.” It was also observed that the control ground had a “4.2 times higher chance of developing type-2 diabetes compared to subjects in the fenugreek group.”

Gymnema Sylvetre

The Hindi name for gymnema translates to “destroyer of sugar.”

The plant’s compound can reduce the absorption of sugar from the intestinal tract and boost insulin production, all of which could help lower blood sugar. In some animal studies, gymnema extract also causes subjects to eat less and eventually lose weight.

How To Use It

1 Tbsp each in 24 ounces of water

Bring to a slow boil and simmer for 5-7 mins.

Let it cool

Drink 4 ounces of this drink 4-6 times a day until you have drank 3, eight-ounce cups per day

Stress Relief Herbal Compress

The stress of the new world we’re living in can be is overwhelming and can cause a reduction in our immunity response. Adding to the risk, is the toll that stress take on our emotional & mental health and wellbeing.

You may have an extremely busy schedule, working longer and longer hours, are taking care of children, the elderly, the sick. Perhaps you are out of a job and struggling to make ends meet. Or you simply struggle to make a difference in the face of so much pain.

Today I want to share a very simple remedy you can do even if all you have to spare is 5 minutes of self-care each day. It is a stress relief compress that you can apply to your head (over your eyes and forehead), wrap your feet with it or even apply on your chest near your heart, feeling not only its warmth but its healing embrace as well.

All of these ingredients can be easily found in markets around the world and you can use a cheese cloth or small hand towel for the compress. Check it out:

1 lavender tea bag

1 lemon balm tea bag

1 valerian root tea bag

1 chamomile OR passionflower tea bag*

*If you can’t find all 4 of these, pick whatever 3 you can find from the above list. You can still have a truly wonderful blend

Instructions

Place all 4 tea bags in a deep ceramic or glass bowl and pour hot water (16 ounces will do)
Cover the bowl for 30 mins
Strain the herbs or bags out of the liquid

Dip a clean cloth or light hand towel in the warm infusion and then squeeze out excess liquid
Apply the compress over your eyes (you can use another cloth for your feet, even your chest area. Leave for 4-5 mins at a time.
When the compress cools, dip it into the warm infusion again, squeezing out the excess, and reapplying as often as needed*

*Please do not rewarm the water in the microwave. Use the stove 🙂

Fever Reducing Tea Blend

When trying to bring a fever down, herbal remedies can help cool the body down. The herbs can stimulate the circulatory system, help your body sweat, pushing pathogens out of your body through sweat and cooling you down in the process.

Here’s a simple blend using 4 herbs. Three of these herbs are very easy to find in markets across the country. The 4th one, yarrow, may be a bit harder to find (but never impossible).

Check out the video and the recipe and “how to” below.

2 tsp ginger root, grated

2 tsp dry basil

1 tsp of peppermint

1 tsp of dry yarrow leaves

*If you can’t find yarrow, take elder flower or dry catnip

Directions

In 2 cups of hot water (not boiling), add all herbs and steep for 30-45 mins
Strain and drink small amounts of about ¼ cup of this infusion every 30 mins
Must be used within a 24 hour period

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