      “The best 6 doctors anywhere, And no one can deny it,
      Are sunshine, water, rest, and air and exercise and diet.
   These 6 will gladly you attend, If only you are willing,
   Your ills they’ll mend, Your cares they’ll tend,
   And charge you not a shilling.
   Back to Eden Jethro Kloss

Lemon Grass for tea

Herbs for the Skin - Fresh and dried herbs used to make infusions with medical properties–applied externally or used with compresses–have been in use for thousands of years. Why would we choose to use chemicals on our skin when these lovely botanicals can be just as effective? These are the principal herbs recommended for use in herbal infusions. Several of them have cleansing and toning qualities that make them useful in any long-term natural skin-care program; all are suitable for any type of skin.

Calendula. Use healing calendula alone or in a half-and-half mix with lavender or chamomile for its anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic capabilities.

Chamomile Flower. Anti-fungal, soothing and cleansing, chamomile flower is the best way to reduce frequent inflammation. The infusion is especially recommended for the fragile skin around the eyes.

Elder Flower. A gentle cleanser, toner, and astringent, elder flower may also be used to reduce inflammation.

Lavender Flower. Though slightly drying, lavender soothes, reduces inflammation and cleanses.

Lime (or Linden) Flower. Similar to chamomile, lime flower is very calming. Its mildly toning, anti-inflammatory effect is beneficial for aging skin.

Mallow. Gentle anti-inflammatory properties make mallow a wonderful way to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Mint. Use to tone the skin.

Rosemary. Antiseptic, toning and vitalizing, rosemary improves blood circulation in the capillaries. Use alone or in a half-and-half mix with yarrow for a more astringent effect.

Thyme. A strong anti-bacterial herb, thyme is effective as a skin wash for acne or infected eczema. Use alone or in equal parts with chamomile and/or calendula to soothe and heal.

Yarrow. Particularly good for aging or damaged skin, yarrow is recognized as a toner, stringent and antiseptic.

To Make a Simple Infusion Use one generous tablespoon of dried chopped herbs or petals to 9 fluid ounces (250 ml) of boiling water. Place the herbs in a mug and fill it to the brim with water. Infuse for 10 minutes, strain, reserve the liquid, and allow to cool before using. Apply with cotton pads or in a mister and leave to dry naturally.

Storage An infusion only has a shelf life of about 12 hours, so don’t be tempted to bottle large quantities. However, you can freeze a strained and cooled infusion in an ice-cube tray and keep it in your freezer for up to three months. To use, simple rub a cube directly on your face, neck and arms for a cooling and hydrating effect. This also has a toning action because it quickens the blood circulation in the capillaries of the dermis.

What is mnmlist.com?

It’s a site by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits.

It’s about minimalism, and why it’s important today.

It’s about stuff, and how it has come to overwhelm us.

It’s about distractions and commitments and a neverending task list.

It’s about the culture of more, of bigger, of consumption.

It’s about how less is the answer.

The Minimalism of Tea

Tea is an act complete in its simplicity.

When I drink tea, there is only me and the tea.

The rest of the world dissolves.

There are no worries about the future.

No dwelling on past mistakes.

Tea is simple loose-leaf tea, hot pure water, a cup.

I inhale the scent, tiny delicate pieces of the tea floating above the cup.

I drink the tea, the essence of the leaves becoming a part of me.

I am informed by the tea, changed.

This is the act of life, in one pure moment, and in this act the truth of the world suddenly becomes revealed: all the complexity, pain, drama of life is a pretense, invented in our minds for no good purpose.

There is only the tea, and me, converging.

— Thich Nhat Hanh: Tea Ceremony

Talk About Teas Of all the uses that herbs have the one that more people enjoy is the making and drinking of herbal teas. They were first used as medicines but they are also consumed as beverages. When combining fresh and dry herbs the rule of thumb is 1 part dried equals 3 parts fresh. Use 1 teaspoonful of dried herbs to 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs to one cup boiling water. If using fresh herbs gently bruise the leaves to help release the aromatic oils. Tea is usually steeped for 3 to 5 minutes. Some herbal experts believe the tea can be steeped for a day or two. I steep the tea for a day. If herbs are allowed to steep longer than a day or two they will release tannic acid not good for the stomach lining. If you want your tea to be stronger use more tea not more time. Herbal tea ingredients spice up alcoholic drinks as well. I like to use an infuser. They are usually ball shaped with small holes and open to put herbs inside or you can use a strainer to remove the herbs once the tea is steeped. Avoid tin or aluminum pots. You may try combinations of herbs in making tea and remember though we think of serving most teas hot, they are also delicious cold on a hot summer day!

Lemon Balm Tea helps reduce fevers as it induces perspiration. It lessens the effects of exhaustion in hot weather, assists digestion, settles an upset stomach and is an anti-depressant.

Basil Leaf Tea is good for the lungs and diseases of the kidneys and bladder. It relieves cramps, vomiting, constipation, and even bad breath. Studies have also shown it can help relieve indigestion.

Bay Leaf Tea is excellent for the digestion and is an astringent as well.

Bergamot Tea is favored as a remedy for sore throats and chest complaints.

Borage Tea is used as a heart tonic, as a stimulant for the adrenal glands and as a purifier to the system. The tea is known for giving a “lift” after a hard day!

Caraway Seed Tea has digestive and cleansing properties and is helpful in clearing the complexion. Crush the seeds slightly before pouring on boiling water.

Catnip Tea has long been used to alleviate colic in babies.

Chamomile Flower Tea is good for menstrual pain and nervous tension and reported to improve ones disposition. The tea taken after a hot bath before going to bed with a few drops of lavender oil will help to induce sound natural sleep.

Chive Tea made from chopped fresh chives is said to lower blood pressure, is a source of calcium and helps to strengthen nails and teeth.

Comfrey Tea is used to heal injuries and broken bones, hence its common name of “knitbone”. It contains large amounts of calcium and B12. It helps in the formation of strong teeth and bones, helps the circulation and cleanses the bloodstream.

Coriander Seed Tea has been used traditionally for purifying the blood thus clearing the complexion.

Cress Tea is a blood purifier, is rich in vitamins and minerals, contains sulfur, iron, iodine and phosphorus, and is excellent for clearing the complexion and brightening the eyes. Apart from making one more robust, it is said to help prevent hair from falling out. Combines well with parsley.

Dill Seed Tea is good for soothing colic in babies and helps the digestion.

Black Elder Tea is made from the flowers is an old remedy for influenza.

Fennel Seed Tea is excellent for bathing sore eyes, relieves indigestion and helps to rid the body of uncomfortable gases.
Hibiscus sabdariffa Another common type of herbal tea shows promise in regulating blood pressure. In human clinical studies at Tufts. Tea brewed from flowers of the tropical roselle plant, Hibiscus sabdariffa, lowered the blood pressure of research subjects. Three cups daily of this hibiscus tea lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressures over a course of 6 weeks.

Lemon Grass Tea is rich in vitamin A and has the effect of clearing the skin and refining its texture.

Lime Flower Tea calms the nerves and sooths the mucous linings following a head cold.

Lovage Leaf Tea stimulates the digestive organs. A tea made from the seeds is recommended as a gargle for infections of the mouth and throat.

Marjoram and Oregano Leaf Tea is helpful at the onset of a fever, relieves colds, cramps, and stomach pains. A strong tea of the leaves, cooled and used as a final rinse will help darken the hair of brunettes.

Mint Leaf Tea will disperse congestion in the body and relieve indigestion, bronchitis, and headaches.

Nettle Leaf Tea contains vitamin D, iron, and calcium and is used as a spring tonic for the blood. It is taken in case of arterial degeneration, rheumatism, gout, and shortness of breath. The leaves fresh or dried make a delicious nutritious soup.

Parsley Leaf Tea is a very nutritious tea containing A, B, C, iron, potassium, silicon, magnesium and other trace elements. The tea assists the bladder, kidneys, and liver and is excellent for anemia.

Raspberry Leaf Tea has the reputation for easing childbirth and the expulsion of the afterbirth, and assisting lactation. It is soothing, tones up the mucous membranes, allays nausea, and encourages good bowel action.

Rose Hip Tea is popular as a preventative against colds. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, A, E, and B. Hibiscus flowers are often blended with it for fragrant enjoyment.

Rosemary Leaf Tea is recommended for strengthening the memory and relieving headaches. It is a nerve tonic as well.

Sage Leaf Tea promotes longevity, strengthens the memory, and restores acuteness to the senses. It has a tonic effect on the liver, brain, and nerves. It is an excellent tea blended with lemon balm. The tea makes a soothing mouth rinse for inflamed gums and helpful as a mouth rinse for sore throats.

Savory Leaf Tea is used to treat colic, flatulence and respiratory problems. It is an intestinal antiseptic and said to be an aphrodisiac.

Tarragon Leaf Tea helps to rid the body of excess fluids and aids indigestion and flatulence.

Thyme Leaf Tea tones up the nervous system and respiratory organs.

Valerian Root Tea has remarkable sedative properties, relieves migraine and heart palpitations. It should be taken before going to bed. Some herbalists advise that this tea should not be taken by people suffering from liver complaints as it can cause nausea. It has the reputation of an unpleasant smell so mix with lemon grass or add honey or fruit juice.

Edible Flowers: Violet, Nasturtium, Pansy, Calendula, French Marigold, Bee Balm, Squash blossoms, Day lilies, Borage, Thyme, Oregano, Honey suckle, Rose, Lavender, Jasmine, Sage, Primrose, Orange, Apple, Pinks, Carnation, Mint, Thyme, Chive, Red runner bean. When you fix that healthy salad make sure to add fresh herbs and colorful flowers! *Only eat flowers you know are safe, free of herbicides and pesticides, and eat only the petals.· Most herbs in the garden have flowers that are beautiful, colorful and edible with a mild taste similar to that of the leaves.

Herbs for repelling insects of all kinds: Herbs were the original household cleaners, disinfectants, and bug repellents and were used for thousands of years with good results before humans came up with toxic chemicals. Herbs are better for the environment and continue to work for you when you have finished with them and put them in the compost heap. They enrich soil, add nutrients, and some like valerian attract earthworms.

1. Basil Delicious in pesto, tomato dishes, and salads. It is one of the best ways to keep flies out of your house. Plant basil next to the doors or use as a foundation planting mixed in with flowers. Flies will stay far away. Mosquitoes don't like it either.

2. Bay Leaf Grow bay outside in S.C. Buy dried bay leaf if you are unable to grow it; Dried basil works for keeping pests away. One bay leaf in white flour keeps weevils out and also protects barley, cornmeal, oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Scatter a few leaves on shelves to repel moths, roaches, earwigs, and mice. Flies hate the smell of bay leaves.

3. Lavender Small amounts add a wonderful floral and citrus flavor to baked goods, meats, and vegetables. It repels moths, mosquitoes, and fleas. Hang a bundle in your closet or lay sprigs with the stored clothes. Grind and sprinkle on your pet's bedding. It repels mosquitoes, keeps rabbits out of your lettuce and spinach.

4. Mint, catnip, and pennyroyal planted around the foundation of your house will keep ants and mice out. Pennyroyal is repugnant to fleas, ants, flies, and mosquitoes. Large amounts of pennyroyal can be toxic to pets and children.

5. Rosemary repels mosquitoes and keeps moths out of clothing..

6. Sweet Woodruff is used to deter carpet beetles and moths. Lay it beneath wool carpets. It releases a sweet scent when you walk across your rugs.

7. Tansy repels flies, ants, fleas, moths, and mice.

My Notes on the History of Herbs

Camomile

Chives

Parsley

Aloe is one of the best herbs to clean out the colon and one of the finest body cleansers. Will expel pinworms. Used on sores, cuts, burns, and wounds. Excellent remedy for piles and hemorrhoids.

Basil The fresh leaves are mildly sedative. It repels flies and fleas and is known to relieve upset stomach. Known as an herbal remedy for diseases of the heart, brain, lungs, kidney, and bladder. It is mixed with borage in a tea as a tonic to revive lowered vitality. The dried leaves were made into a snuff to clear the head and as a remedy for headaches and colds.An infusion of basil with wine will close enlarged pores in the skin. Holy basil from India is known to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes. Ease a headache by drinking tomato juice blended with fresh basil.

Bergamot – Also known as Bee Balm. Oswego tea to the Indians or Bee Balm. Leaves are used in salads. Known to relieve stomach troubles, the symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Inhaling the vapor relieves nasal congestion. It is mildly relaxing, and a remedy for sore throats, colds, and chest complaints. It is revitalizing in a hot bath.

Blood Root Indians used it for red dye. Large dose induces vomiting. Is an anti-bacterial used in commercial preparations to counteract dental plaque and gum disease. Two drops on a lump of sugar for a sore throat. Used for respiratory ailments.A tea is made from the roots for sore throat, fever and rheumatism. The root was chewed, mixed with saliva and used for burns, skin ulcers, and fungal infections. Excellent expectorant and anti-spasmodic. It stimulates respiration, raises blood pressure, and kills oral bacteria. Potentially harmful in oral hygiene products. Rhizomes are harvested after flowering.

Borage Used to bannish sorrow and depression and bring joy to the heart. A cooling soothing antiinflamatory with diuretic and diaphoretic(sweating) effects. A restorative drink and will break a fever. Borage oil may lower blood pressure.

Catnip Helps to ease colicky pain, upset stomach, gas, and spasms. Has a calming effect on humans. Chewed as a remedy for toothache. Has a mild sedative effect and suggested for treating ADD or hyperactivity. A mosquito repellent

Cayenne – Red pepper is one of the most stimulating herbs known to man! Chili peppers are a wonderful tonic. The ground dried fruits are a stimulant, a disinfectant, antispasmodic, and it helps to relieve joint pain. It causes no harm and has no unhealthy reaction. Remedy for fevers. It is good in all forms of low diseases. The key to success in medicine is stimulation and capsicum is the great stimulant. It “makes the fire of life burn more brightly.” It is good in profound shock, cures rheumatism and is powerful to arrest hemorrhage from the mucous membranes. One of the best liniments. A dose of cayenne tea will generally remove a cold. In Mexico the people are very fond of it and their bodies get saturated with it. If one of them dies on the prairie, the vultures will not touch the body impregnated with capsicum. It cannot be equaled when a powerful and prolonged stimulant is needed. The entire circulation is affected. In all diseases capsicum is invaluable in the prescription as a toning agent that helps the system to throw off disease and reestablish equilibrium. In the onset of chills and colds it is the sovereign remedy! Capsicum is indicated in all low-grade fevers and prostrating diseases. It increases the power of all other agents, helps the digestion when taken with meals, and arouses all the secreting organs. African bird pepper is the purest and best stimulant known, has a pungent taste and is the most persistent heart stimulant ever known, being prompt in its effect. Through the circulation its influence is manifest through the whole body; the heart first, next the arteries, then the capillaries and the nerves. Used to halt infections, as a pain killer, and increases circulation. Also valuable in treating herpes, psoriasis, and shingles. Absolutely one of my favorites. I grow cayenne, dry it good and grind it in the blender. I think it gives me a burst of energy and keeps me going! When I had time and more peppers I made a delicious hot relish with them.

Celery – used when there is incontinence of urine and for liver troubles, rheumatism, neuralgia, and nervousness.

Chamomile Calms digestive upsets, is a remedy for fever and chills, accelerates wound healing, is an insect repellent, manages peptic ulcers, and highlights blond hair. The flowere are used in a tea for a calming effect and to sleep.

Chives – Herb chives or garlic chives may be used for a mild onion flavor in salads, sandwiches, and soups. The leaves are mildly antiseptic and have a tonic effect on the kidneys. Known to relieve rheumatism. It stimulates the appetite and helps lower high blood pressure. Is a source of calcium and the flower is rich in vitamin A.

Chocolate Used for angina and to lower high blood pressure.

Coriander/Cilantro - Is a good stomach tonic and strengthening to the heart. Expels wind from the bowels

Curcumin (the ingredient responsible for the turmeric root’s orange pigment) and turmerones (its oils) are believed to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s disease; prevent the spread of certain types of cancer (prostate, breast, colon); promote wound healing; alleviate arthritis and inflammation; and enhance liver detoxification. And those are just the leading benefits. The incidence of Alzheimer’s is 4.4 times greater in the U.S. than it is in India. UCLA researchers have not concluded that it’s all due to turmeric, but research seems to be confirming that turmeric consumption is the explanation. It’s India’s mother herb. It gets put on a baby’s tongue soon after it’s born and is put on people when they die and is profoundly important to them. Americans are exposed to traces of it in mustard. We can, however, begin to cook more with it, sprinkle it on food, or take it as a supplement. A full-spectrum turmeric extract, which is how Mother Nature created this healing food has been proven to be most effective in delivering the health benefits.

Dandelion – This plant is important for liver and kidney disorders and is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Dig the roots and add them to soup. You can add the leaves to salad. A mild laxative. The flowers are simmered and used as a skin wash. Helps lower blood pressure

Dill – Has the reputation as a soothing herb. Rich in minerals, potassium, sodium, sulfur. The seeds have a gentle sedative effect and stave off hunger. Dill water (from seeds) used to rid hiccups and colic in babies. Seeds are chewed to encourage milk production. Seeds are rich in oils with beneficial digestive properties that help the assimilation of food and dispel flatulence. Properties strengthen the fingernails.

Bronze Fennel –The eye herb. Heals the eyesight (some say gives second sight) Prevents the feeling of hunger. Bulbs are good raw in salads or braised as a vegetable. Seeds are chewed as breath freshener. I love to chew them. Rids the body of uncomfortable gases. Fennel seed tea used to bath sore eyes. Recommended for those who want to lose weight. Used in lotions and skin fresheners, it is said to smooth lines away.

Fenugreek - Used to cure diabetes

Feverfew –Used for pains in the head. Chewing a fresh leaf relieves a migraine headache or vertigo. A strong infusion in the bath relieves aches and pains. Used as insect and moth repellant.

Garlic – A general tonic rich in sulfur. Contains vitamin A, B, C, as well as copper, manganese, iron, and calcium making it valuable as a tonic for the cells and glands. It is a valuable strengthening medicine that gives protection against disease, preventing infection and the formation of harmful bacteria in the stomach and intestines. This herb has powerful antiseptic qualities, cures constipation, and is used as a disinfectant. A strong garlic tea can be used as an insecticide. Aid in clearing skin blemishes. Taken to ward off colds and ease chest congestion. Sinus problems and hay fever are helped by eating garlic regularly. Helps to lower blood pressure, alleviate rheumatism, expels worms and is beneficial to elderly people suffering from hardening of the arteries. Capsules are recommended when traveling overseas to help avoid infection.

Golden Marjoram

Golden seal – One of the most wonderful remedies in the entire herb kingdom. Remedy for all stomach disorders and acute inflammations. For sores, inflammations, ringworm and other skin diseases it excels. Taken in small frequent doses it will allay nausea during pregnancy. It is a very good tonic for spinal nerves and is very good in spinal meningitis. Will help cure pyorrhea or sore gums. Excellent for the eyes.

Holy Basil – from India is known to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes.

Horseradish – A stimulant, purgative, and strong diuretic. It is used fresh grated or dry as a powder. Expels worms and is a stimulant to the circulatory system. Helps build up resistance to colds and reduces bronchial complaints. Relieves sinus pain and helps reduce blood pressure. Plant in potato patch to keep away potato bogs.

Kelp - This is an algae. It is great in salads and soups. It lowers blood pressure. I also like pure Hawain blue-green algae and take in tablets.

Lady's Bedstraw

Lavender Cotton – (santolina) Used with rue and rosemary to repel household insects and moths.

Lemon Balm – Lemon balm ensures that bees will never leave your garden! It is an herbaceous bushy perennial said to drive away all melancholy and sadness. The tea has a soothing effect, calms the nerves, relieves tiredness and helps relieve headaches. Used in laundry water to freshen clothing. Known to be a guard against senility and together with sage contributes to longevity. Rids failing memory, neuralgia, and helps bring down high fevers. Lessens the effects of exhaustion in hot weather and is a valuable remedy for nausea and vomiting.

Lemon Grass – The tea has a tonic effect on the kidneys and is beneficial during a fever. Contains vitamin A, and has a wonderful effect on the skin helping to clear the complexion and give it a fine texture and warm glow. It is said that it gives the eyes a bright clear look. If a few drops of oil are added to the bath water the pores of the skin open and absorb the essential elements of the oil. As you see in the picture, I like to wrap it up for tea. Known to combat depression ans is a powerful anti-fungal agent.

Lobelia –Lobelia acts differently upon different people. It is a powerful relaxant. Reduces palpitation of the heart. Good for reducing fevers. There is nothing that will clear the air passages of the lungs as lobelia. An antidote to poison. A general corrector of the whole system. Clears away obstructions in the circulation

Mexican Tarragon

Mint – A stimulant to the appetite and aids in nervous disorders. Used in salads, jellies, and drinks. Helps ward off colds. Relieves indigestion by helping dispel stomach gases and cleansing the intestines. Helps to promote sound natural sleep, prevents bad breath, whitens teeth and conditions the gums. Excellent conditioner for oily hair. If added to the bath it has a stimulating effect.

Mullein – Is mildly sedative. Used in herbal tobacco blends as an expectorant. Flowers are used in a hair rinse to brighten blond hair. The root has been used for years in asthma by burning the root and inhaling the fumes. A tea of the leaves is very valuable in asthma, croup, bronchitis, lung infections, bleeding from the lungs, difficult breathing, and hay fever. A tea made from the flowers will induce sleep, relieve pain, and in large doses act as a laxative. The freshly crushed flowers will remove warts. Excellent pain killer without being habit forming. Helps calm the nerves.

Oregano – Used to provoke menstruation, calm nerves, help morning sickness, sooth a toothache, and macerated in oil it is used for a rub for aching joints. The cosmic warmth it accumulates from the sun helps bad colds, cramps, and digestive disorders. The tea relieves nervous headache, induces sleep, stimulates excretion, and darkens the hair.

Parsley – The universal herb that is rich in A, B, C, iron, calcium, and other minerals. A good tonic. Prevents thread veins in complexion and the removal of freckles. It promotes the flow of urine, is a good tonic for anemia and helps kidney complaints. Used as a breath sweetener and skin cleanser. Parsley tea assists in circulation and digestion. It also closes large pores, makes dark hair shiny, and reduces puffiness around the eyes.

Primrose – The oil relieves menstrual symptoms and helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Red Clover – It is good for cancer of the stomach, bronchial troubles, whooping cough, and various spasms. Red clover is exceedingly good for cancer on any part of the body. If there are sores on any part of the body, bath them with a tea from the flowers.

Rosemary – Has more than 12 antioxidant compounds. Antispasmodic, antimicrobial and antidepressive.Inhibits mammary gland, colon and lung cancer in animals. Known as a preserver of youth! Stimulates and strengthens the memory, therefore “rosemary for remembrance.” A nerve tonic. Rosemary is good for neuralgia as it soothes the nerves and gives headache relief. Known to strengthen the heart and the head. It deepens the color of dark hair, stimulates the roots and gives luster to the hair. Rosemary extract revitalizes the scalp prevents dandruff and encourages hair growth. The leaves boiled in white wine are used as a skin tonic to wash the face. Burned against infection. The oil is used for achy jointsand rheumatism. In the bath it increases circulation An insect repellant. A few sprigs in the bath are invigorating!

Rue – A powerful flea repellent. It is used to treat skin disorders and strengthen blood vessels, and as an eye bath. It is an air cleanser when burnt. Traditionally used to cure epilepsy and insanity. And in ointments it relieves the pain of sciatica, rheumatism and gout.

Sage – It could almost be called a “cure-all”. Was used as a fertility drug by the Egyptians. Is associated with longevity.Sage makes a soothing, calming drink. Drinking sage tea cold during the day will prevent night sweats and is a good astringent tonic. It will also cause the flow of milk in the breast to cease. Used to treat hemoroids, insomnia, estrogen loss, nervous exhaustion, herpes and alzheiners disease. It cools fevers and cleanses the blood, whitens teeth and strengthens gums and makes a great mouthwash and deodorant. It increases hair growth and darkens gray hair. It is believed to restore energy and bad memory and has a tonic effect on the liver. The tea is taken as a nerve tonic. The leaves are used in tobacco. It is used as a hair tonic to prevent hair from going gray. Wounds will heal more rapidly if washed with sage. I love this tea!

Southernwood – An herb that encourages hair growth. The young tips are a tonic to promote menstruation. It expels worms, repels insects and moths and is a disinfectant. Wormwood was used as a disinfectant on hospital floors. The leaves are used in tobacco. Aids women’s problems, and digestion.

Shisho

Sweet Bay – an evergreen shrubby tree that grows to 25 feet tall with leathery leaves that are very aromatic. It is a general household insecticide. The burning leaves are antiseptic. It is used for flavoring and tenderizing and essential in cooking for bouquet garni. The whole plant has narcotic qualities. Gives protection against infection. Is burned to cleanse the air. Leaves can be kept in grains or flour to discourage insects. The oil is used for earaches, rheumatism, hysteria and flatulence. Body rub: alternate layers of fresh bay leaves, sea salt, and vegetable oil and seal. Later strain and use as a toning body rub.

Thyme "Courage" When in doubt use thyme. A strengthening herb. Egyptians used oil of thyme to embalm the dead. It is an antiseptic, antibacterial, antispasmodic and antifungal and used to treat nervous conditions, epilepsy, and respiratory problems and flu. The tea was a folk cure for hangovers, remedy for nightmares, and good for anemia, exhaustion and skin problems. It is a valuable medicine for treating coughs, colds, cramps, colic, poor digestion and loss of appetite. Used with sage as a gargle for sore throat. Tones up the skin.Thyme oil is used in the bath for neuralgia, rheumatism and sprains. A pillow of thyme was used as a remedy for asthma. Acts as a mood elevator. Clears the brain and improves eyesight. Known to counter the effects of aging. Burned as an incense to cleanse the air.and used in a tea to treat worms.

Violet – As a tea violet leaves are used as a blood purifier. Very effective and gives prompt relief in internal ulcers. Has been used as a treatment for cancer. For cancerous growths and other skin diseases, violet is especially beneficial when combined with red clover and vervain.

Witch Hazel – Is an astringent and is used to treat bruises, swells, and sprains and is a great skin tonic that also relieves insect bites and stings. Very valuable for stopping internal or external bleeding. Will restore perfect circulation. In nosebleed, snuff the tea up the nose. Witch Hazel from the store contains alcohol and not intended to be used internally.

Wormwood

Yarrow – Leaves are used in salads. It reduces fever, and stops diarrhea, and prevents baldness. It is a good fertilizer and a natural activator in compost. Infusions are used on cuts and wounds. Lowers blood pressure.

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