Healing Archives - Jovanka Ciares

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 Instantly Feel Better… without Sugar

We’ve all have felt down and sad from time to time. Often times these feelings are situational: something in your live has made you feel that way temporarily. And other times it could be because of hormonal disruptions led by too much sugar consumption.

So when you feel a little blue, how do you make yourself feel better (without a sugary treat)? Check out the 10-step process I follow to give myself grace and feel better instantly without having to resort to the low-nutrient, sugary treats.

1. Turn off the TV or phone

Do you know how you limit television time for your children and do not allow them to watch anything that could affect their mental state? Well, do the same for yourself. Limit the amount of harmful news and information you get on television or social media to no more than 15 mins a day. If you are feeling particularly bad, turn it off completely for at least a couple of days.

2. Eat some fruit

Now this is really a fun thing that could make you feel better. Believe it or not, eating some fruit could make you smile.

Ok, we all know that there are certain comfort foods that heal our pain, but what happens the next day? The next day, you only feel worse because you shoved all the pizza or ice cream pack down your throat. Fruit on the other hand is full of fiber, enzymes and phytochemicals your body needs to stay healthy and strong. This could satisfy your sweet tooth without undoing your mental state with low-nutrient foods.

3. Smell of oranges

Scientists have concluded that the smell of oranges makes people happier. That is why you will find this particular scent in many offices, as well as many spas and massage parlors. Use it in your home or office.

4. Workout

This is especially good for those of us overtly concerned about our appearance. Take a walk, do some home yoga or resistance training. Anything that would help you increase your heart rate, break a sweat and with it, release endorphins (happy hormones). Exercise can also help reduce stress hormones so it is a win-win.

5. Choose your friends wisely

You should not be around people who like to point out your flaws. Many of them do not mean harm, but yes, they may be adding to your stress and sad feelings. Some people call these, “energy vampires” and they are damn good at making you feel wretched. Choose the company of friends who make you laugh and feel good about yourself.

6. Give someone a big compliment

Acknowledging someone not only help that person feel wonderful, it will have the exact same effect on you: increased feelings of peace, joy and happiness. Even third party witnesses benefit from kind words to others. Try it!

7. Take a walk outside

I whole-heartedly believe that most of our problems would disappear with a simple walk in the park or the forest or the beach. The next time someone makes you angry or upset for any other reason, put on your shoes and go for a walk.

8. Treat yourself

Something kind and useful, like a massage, pedicure or manicure… anything that feels like a fun treat that bring you several minutes to an hour of joy

9. Learn to feel better about yourself

All of our problems tend to look much bigger if we are no longer satisfied with ourselves. To reduce those problems, write down the wonderful things you have going on for yourself: your talents, your goals, your hard work, your best attribute. Remembering how wonderful you are will slowly help you feel better more times of the day than not.

10. Learn how to make someone else feel better

Happy people around us will bring happiness to our lives as well. Surround yourself with positive people and let them transfer some of their energy to you as well.

Try This 3-Step Mental Hack to Help Your Body Heal

This simple hack in 3 parts can help you reduce symptoms and help your body restore balance.

First things first, you must listen to your own body!!! Your body is constantly talking to you. We hear all the time that we must learn to listen and that idea can be applied to your body as well.

So let’s find a way to learn to listen to the internal conversation happening within you..

Try This 3-Step process:

1) For a single day, write what goes on in your body: look at your eyes, tongue, fingers… Are you gassy, constipated, achy. Is your ‘gut feeling’ out of control ? What else is your body tell you?

2) At the end of the day review in detail your notes.

3) Tomorrow, check to see if your body repeats the ‘talk’ Act based on that convo, using your intuition to lead the way. 🙂

Seek medical help as needed. Enjoy!

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.

Real Wellness with NFL star Ricky Williams | Jovanka Ciares

Today I have a really awesome treat. I met Ricky Williams (the ‘Heisman Healer’) a few months ago and loved his commitment to excellence in his career as an NFL player AND to his own wellness journey.

He co-founded Real Wellness and sat with me to talk healing, men’s health and alternative practices and traditions. Check out the interview and let me know what you think!

Check Out Real Wellness Here: https://realwellnessherbal.com/

How To Address the Lack of Diversity in the World of Wellness

There is a big diversity gap in the wellness world. If you attend a yoga class in places like New York City, Chicago or Los Angeles, you will see mostly white faces. Wellness conferences and events often have a high-ticket entry price and offer products and services that only a few can afford.

The diversity issues aren’t limited to the audience: the makeup of the elite wellness expert pool is also homogeneous. Other than a couple of large players (Deepak Chopra, Iyanla Vanzant, JJ Smith), there are almost no top-level wellness experts of multi-cultural background appealing to and attracting new audiences. Despite the plethora of diverse talent in wellness, the industry has not yet fully tapped into it and elevated these voices, to the detriment of all of those seeking to become or stay healthy and happy in mind and soul.

As a black woman of Latinx background and wellness expert, it is my mission to inspire the communities I belong to, to embrace the wellness practices that had such a positive impact in my own healing process and life as a whole. My goal is to bridge the gap between the world of wellness and brown and black communities in the USA by reminding these communities of the history behind common wellness practices.

On today’s today’s video blog I explore the “radical” idea of how we can together enrich, diversify and create equity in the world of wellness. Please have a listen.

While long term solutions would require mayor changes in public health policies, socio economic development and access to both education and healthy food options, we cannot sit idle waiting for politicians to do the right thing and laws to change. Much can be done today, to get people of all colors and creed excited about #ReclaimingWellness. We know, for example that while some wellness practices can only be afforded by the wealthy, many more are easily accessible and available to all.

The fact is that many of the wellness practices we embrace as “mainstream” today were originally developed, used and disseminated by people of color around the world. From meditation (Nepal, North Africa, India) and herbal medicine (Africa, Asia, South America) to Yoga (India) and other holistic mind/body practices (Africa’s ubuntu, Amazonian’s spiritual medicine) there are plenty of life-changing wellness practices that are part of our ancestry, our DNA and it’s time we reclaim and reincorporate them for our benefit and the benefit of our community as a whole.

By #ReclaimingWellness people of color can learn to love these healthy lifestyle practices while getting an easy-to-follow, no-nonsense blueprint to incorporating them into their daily routine.

It is my hope that other wellness experts, regardless of the color of their skin, become allies in the quest to diversify the world of wellness. It is a crucial opportunity to affect growth and increase our impact while enriching the lives of many.

5 of the Most Powerful Medicinal Plants Backed by Science

Chances are, you have heard of these herbs and how powerful they are. You have heard me talk about them many times or your family or ancestors may have used them before.

While we have lots of anecdotal evidence related to many herbal remedies, these 5 in particular have properties backed by science and I wanted to share what modern science has found about them here with you.

These herbs really work and now we have all the persistent stories backed clinically:

MILK THISTLE

Famous as the national flower of Scotland, this lovely looking plant has now spread around the world. We now know that milk thistle:

– protects cells from damage

– helps treat liver and stomach ailments like spasms

– has a relaxation effect on the gastrointestinal muscles

– helps boost digestion

NETTLES

Nettles is famous for its stinginess when the plant is fresh but it has also been used for centuries in herbal remedies. Nettles is a natural diuretic, that:

– aids in gastric health

– can help lower blood pressure

– helps break down stones in the kidney and gallbladder

– can reduce inflammation

GINGKO

Gingko is one of the oldest trees on the planet as well as one of the oldest alternative medicine plants out there. It can be used in many ways but science shows us that gingko:

– can boost brain health

– can treat mild to moderate dementia

– can slow cognition decline and Alzheimer’s

– can help diabetes

TURMERIC

Today turmeric is one of the most popular medicinal herbs in the West, but it has been used for thousands of years in place like India. We know that turmeric can:

– help reduce inflammation

– help reduce pain and discomfort form arthritis

– current studies are conducted to determine its anti-cancer properties

TEA TREE OIL

This is a plant that’s native to Australia. Long been thought to be beneficial for skin conditions, including mild acne, small wounds, insect bites, and other conditions. Research also shows that tea tree oil is:

– a powerful antimicrobials extract that can help heal wounds and skin infections

– can help slow the development of acne-causing microbes

– has antiseptic and antifungal properties

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.

Three Medicinal Mushrooms You Should Know About | The Power of Mushrooms

Three medicinal mushrooms you should know about – the Power of Mushrooms

I’ve been learning about and becoming obsessed with mushrooms for the last couple of years. I’m truly in love with these powerful products and wanted to share at least 3 that you should consider trying and adding to your healthy foods arsenal.

First of, it’s important to know that mushrooms (or fungi) are neither part of the vegetable world nor part of the animal world. They are their own kingdom, the fungi kingdom! There are tens of thousands of mushroom types out there, with a few dozen considered edible and beneficial to our health. We still don’t know all of them so chances are we may learn about a new mushroom or two and its benefits in the very near future.

For now, let’s look at 3 that are among the most popular and with the strongest known health benefits.

Reishi

Traditional Chinese Medicine has been using reishi for hundreds of years. It is considered the “longevity” mushroom in many parts of the world.

There is strong evidence that reishi can help:

Boost your immune system
Have anti-cancer properties
Fight fatigue
Protect your heart
Can help control blood sugar levels
Provide antioxidant protection

It is mostly used in powder form (capsules or loose powder) but can also be found in tea and tincture form

Chaga

This mushroom has been used for centuries in Siberia, Scandinavia and parts of Northern Canada to help improve overall health. It is so powerful indeed that a single cup of chaga tea can provide almost all of the antioxidants you need in a day.

In addition to antioxidants, evidence shows that chaga mushrooms can help you:

Prevent cancer
Lower blood sugar levels
Lower cholesterol

Shiitake

This is a yummy edible mushroom. I’m particularly obsessed with them because they have a smoky flavor when oven roasted and are incredibly tasty in soups, stews, salads other dishes.

There is strong scientific data showing how shiitake can help:

Boost health
Protect against cancer
Reduce inflammation
Increase circulation

Now, have you tried or are ready to try these magical ‘shrooms? Have you tried others that you love? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

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

Three Oils That Protect your Respiratory System

The US Surgeon General said in an interview last week: “… we would rather prevent disease than treat disease”. The worldwide struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic has made this more evident than ever before.

You have been seeing my IG Lives and YouTube videos where I am sharing various ways to keep your body healthy, strong and have yet another line of defense against preventable diseases like the cold, the flu and the coronavirus.

Essential oils are another way in which we can keep our immune system strong and ready to fight pathogens. Here are 2 essential oils (to be used topically) and one oil-based infusion (to be used internally) that my family has been using for generations.

– EUCALYPTUS: This highly anti-oxidant oil can help you relieve cold symptoms, break down congestion in the chest, clear your nasal passage and promote relaxation, helping you sleep at night.

My mom used to put a few drops in our chests before bed when we were super congested. I still remember those moments fondly.

– THIEVES essential oil: a blend of oils

The blend includes herbs like cloves, cinnamon and rosemary and is believed to help boost the immune system. It has antimicrobial activity and can help you fight nasal and sinus congestion. It is also good at promoting respiratory health and energizing the mood.

My sister would put 3-4 drops on my little nephew’s hands right before dropping him off to school every morning. He rubbed his hands together and smell the oil before rubbing it on his temple and neck. That first year of use, he avoided the cold when most kids in his school got it at least once.

– OIL OF OREGANO: This is a natural antibiotic and antioxidant with antiviral properties. It contains various potentially healing compounds that can also help reduce pain and symptoms of the cold and flu.

I often use it at the first sign of symptoms, adding 3-4 drops of the oil blend (NOT the essential oils but the oil infused in a carrier oil) in a cup of tea, 3-4 times a day. You can also take it in small caps.

4 Tips to an Effective Cleanse at Home

Many people find cleanses and detoxes appealing as a way to reaffirm a commitment to healthy eating, especially at the start of a new year. While I certainly understand the desire dial down cravings for sweets and processed foods and create a pathway toward eating well over the long haul, the trouble I see with juicing and other similar cleanses is that too often, they leave people hangry, sluggish and distracted by constant thoughts of food.

Cleansing can also lead to unwanted issues, like constipation (from lack of fiber) and bloating (due to excess fructose from juice cleanses).

If you want to reboot your diet in the new year without the unnecessary restriction and potential downsides that comes with detoxes and cleanses, clean up your eating with these coach-approved tips instead.

GO GREEN (AND ORANGE AND PURPLE AND RED)

Most Americans aren’t anywhere close to meeting their needs. (90 percent fall short of vegetable recommendations and 85 percent aren’t meeting their fruit quota.) To help you boost your intake and your overall health, add sliced strawberries to your oatmeal at breakfast, opt for a summer salad at lunch, and fill half your dinner plate with a steamed vegetable medley.

And don’t forget snacks! Enjoy sliced carrots, celery and jicama with hummus or a little guacamole with gluten free crackers.

CUT OUT ADDED SWEETENERS

While Americans fall short on fruits and veggies, we’re overdoing it on sugar, consuming close to 20 teaspoons a day. Health authorities suggest capping added sugars at 6 teaspoons (equivalent to about 25 g) a day for women and 9 teaspoons (or about 36 g) for men. Challenge yourself to cut back on added sugar from sweetened yogurts, cereals and granola bars, as well as the usual suspects (soda, cookies, ice cream, cookies and other baked goods). You’ll appreciate the natural sweetness of fruit so much more when you cut unnecessary added sweeteners from your diet.

BE GOOD TO YOUR GUT

Many people are drawn to cleanses to reset their GI system, and these regular cleanses can have amazing benefits! While trying to flush out toxins, take measures to boost your gut health so it can do its job well.

A healthy gut is important for almost every aspect of wellness — from boosting your mood to helping you sleep, from weight management to preventing chronic diseases, the list goes on and on. To reboot your diet and reset your gut, remember to do a mild, food-based “reset cleanse” on a regular basis.

EMBRACE MILD, FOOD-BASED CLEANSES

Our team does a 3-week purification challenge twice a year, using some meal replacements, herbal supplements and easy-to-digest meals that are perfect for any part of the year. Check out more details about it here.

Vegan Keto Diet – Is it possible? Is It Healthy?

My clients keep asking me about the ketogenic diet and whether it is healthy.

More importantly, they (and I) want to know if you can do keto and still follow a plant-based, whole foods, vegan diet.

Here’s my take on the keto craze and a vegan version of a keto diet.

1^st effect

Anyone eating a plant whole foods diet with no white crap, sugars and junk will get into a mild ketogenic state

2nd effect

Intermittent fasting – can also put you in a mild ketosis state

13-16 hrs without solids

3rd effect

Exercise can help you achieve a mild ketogenic state

fat moves faster out when moving regularly

less free radicals = more longevity

Foods and Herbs To Help Manage Earaches

These alternative remedies can be administered alongside necessary antibiotics as additional synergistic treatment.

Try one of the following 3 remedies, ideally one at a time. Check out the video below and the instructions in writing below the video:

Click Here To Access The Video

Remedy No 1: ECHINACEA

-stimulate white blood cells

-has antibiotic effects

*How To Do It?

Add 2-3 drops of tincture into each ear 2-3 times per day

Remedy No 2: Onion

-antibacterial and antibiotic

-antifungal

-reduces swelling

*How To Do it?

Cut 1/3 of the onion and place it directly over the ear. Hold it in place with a cloth bandage for 15 mins. Add a hot pack over the onion to release the oils into the ear.

Remedy No 3: Tea Tree

-antifungal, antiviral

– can shorten the duration

-relieves pain

*How To Do It?

Mix 1 tsp of coconut oil and 1-2 drops of tea tree. Put it gently into the effected ear.

Change the cotton ball 2-3 times per day.

What have been your tried and true earache remedies? Let me know in the comments below the video.

Improve Menstrual Cramps

Each month, the lining of a woman’s uterus produces chemicals called prostaglandins, which help the muscles of the uterus to contract and expel tissue and fluids during menstruation.

If the levels of prostaglandins rise a lot, they cause strong contractions of the uterine muscle which are called pains, menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea.

In addition to menstrual cramps, other discomforts may occur such as:

– Pain that radiates to the lower part of the spine and to the thighs.

– Headache

– Vomiting

– Cramps

– Fatigue, etc.

Herbs and blends to fight pain or menstrual cramps

Remedy for menstrual colic #1: Boil, for 10 minutes, 1 tablespoon of calendula and another one of lemon balm in 1/2 liter of water. After that time, remove from heat, cover and let cool. Take this infusion throughout the day.

Remedy for menstrual colic #2: Pour 2 tablespoons of cinnamon in a cup of water that is boiling. Cover and let stand. Take 3 cups of this infusion daily. It is important that this infusion is very hot (but not burned) for ingestion.

Remedy for menstrual colic #3: Pour 1 tablespoon of licorice and another of chamomile in a cup of water that is boiling. Cover and let stand. Take, still hot (but not burning) to feel the first manifestations of pain.

Remedy for menstrual colic #4; Take a mineral bath. To do this, add 1 cup of sea salt and another of sodium bicarbonate to the bath water. Immerse for 20 minutes. This bath helps to relax the muscles and relieve abdominal pain.

Remedy for menstrual colic #5: Crampbark and red raspberry blend. This is my favorite. I take them in tincture or tea.

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