5 Reasons Red Clover is the Herb for You!

5 Reasons Red Clover

Common herbs like Red Clover are often overlooked as useless and pesky weeds. How many times have you weeded this pretty little plant from your garden spaces?

In organic agriculture and permaculture, Red Clover is now being viewed as an excellent cover crop to add minerals and nitrogen to the soil. However, in herbal circles, Red Clover has been praised for centuries as a highly medicinal and vital plant, especially for women and children.

 

Children’s Skin and Respiratory Issues

Long used throughout history for skin and respiratory conditions, Red Clover is a safe and effective option for relieving childhood eczema and whooping cough. A bevy of other conditions, such as colds, coughs, congestion, and bronchitis, as well as psoriasis, and dermatitis can be addressed with the proper use of Red Clover also. Taken as a tea, Red Clover can be a parent’s most useful go-to herb.

Fertility

Red Clover is well known for it’s fertility enhancing abilities. Herbalist Susan Weed explains that “It is especially helpful if there is scaring of the fallopian tubes, irregular menses, abnormal cells in the reproductive tract, or “unexplained” infertility….The high vitamin content of red clover blossoms, combined with the folic acid in the leaves is especially helpful to sperm and egg production and helps prevent birth defects….Red clover’s high mineral and trace mineral content helps restore and maintain good production of hormones. Its profuse and exceedingly absorbable calcium and magnesium help rejuvenate and repair the delicate tissues of reproduction….And red clover’s well-known ability to alkalinize the body may alter the vaginal pH, making it more receptive to sperm, and may create an environment more friendly to sperm throughout the woman’s reproductive area, thus increasing the chances of conception. Consistent use softens scar tissue in the fallopian tubes.”

Menopause

The Iroquois, and other traditional societies, used Red Clover infusions for ‘the change of life’. Now, we know why it works. Red Clover is rich in isoflavones, which are natural estrogens, similar to human female hormones. “Phytoestrogens perform functions in the body similar to those of natural and synthetic estrogens, relieving menopause- and menstruation-related problems and perhaps protecting against osteoporosis and cancer of the breast, colon, and prostate”, says James Duke. Scientific studies have born out the ability of Red Clover to significantly reduce hot flashes, as well as other menopausal symptoms.

Cancer

Many cultures world-wide have traditionally used Red Clover for healing and preventing a variety of cancers. New research has validated these benefits, especially in the case of breast cancer, prostate cancer and brain cancer.

Nourishing and Detoxifying

One of the reasons Red Clover is able to exert such a positive influence on such a variety of health conditions is its nutrient content. It is literally a powerhouse of nutrition. Red Clover contains a multitude of vitamins, including beta carotene, vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, as well as minerals, such as, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, calcium, nitrogen, iron and selenium. Additionally it is a good source of plant protein. Likely due to its rich nutrient content, Red Clover is also a powerfully detoxifying plant. According to Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, it is “one of the best detoxification herbs”.

 

Pleasant and mild-tasting, Red Clover can be combined with Spearmint, Peppermint, Lemon Balm or other herbs to create a delightful daily tea that will keep you and your children in good health!

 

Do you drink Red Clover tea? Do you have a favorite herb to combine it with?

 

 

5 Reasons Lemon Balm is the Herb for You!

One of the most perfect herbs for those new to herbalism is Lemon Balm. Lemon Balm, whose botanical name is Melissa officionalis, is remarkably versatile in its uses. Its pleasant taste makes it great as a beverage tea, while its medicinal properties make it valuable for healing a variety of issues.

Throughout history, Lemon Balm has been used medicinally. The writings of Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder mention the use of Lemon Balm on surgical dressing for wounds, and to treat venomous bites and stings. The 12th century herbalist, Saint Hildegarde von Bingen, said “Lemon balm contains within it the virtues of a dozen other plants.”

Here are a few of the areas in which Lemon Balm excels:

Melissa officinalis

Brain

Recent studies show that Lemon Balm is helpful in improving brain function. In one study, a significant increase in the speed of mathematical processing, with no reduction in accuracy was observed. In another study, after just one dose of Lemon Balm, subjects showed improved cognitive performance and lengthened attention span!

 

Stress

In those same studies, another benefit that was observed was improved mood and a sense of calmness. In fact, Lemon Balm has been used traditionally for reducing stress of all kinds. Stress-induced anxiety and/or depression is specifically indicated for the use of Lemon Balm. It has an uplifting nature that can dissolve tension and induce a balancing of the nervous system.

 

Sleep

The relaxing effect that Lemon Balm has on the nervous system can also be helpful for those with sleep issues. In Germany, lemon balm is actually licensed as a standard medicinal tea for sleep disorders. In The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia it is listed as a sedative. Western herbalists often use it in combination with other relaxing and sedative herbs to promote sleep.

 

Viruses

Lemon Balm is highly anti-viral. It has been studied for its effectiveness against herpes virus as well as HIV with positive results. In one study on 115 patients, a proprietary preparation of lemon balm extract in a lip balm showed efficacy in treating lip sores associated with the herpes simplex virus. Studies of various mint family plants, including Lemon Balm, showed efficacy against human immunodeficiency virus type 1.

 

Children

Even though Lemon Balm is a powerfully medicinal herb, it is gentle enough for children. It is indicated for use in ADHD and hyperactivity in kids. Because of its gentle nature, it is the herb for choice when a child has any of the various issues listed above – problems falling asleep, a viral infection, learning disorders or any sort of stress-induced condition. Because of its delightful flavor, it is a favorite among even the pickiest of children, making it even more valuable as a medicine.

Lemon Balm is a standby in our household and brings its uplifting nature and agreeable, lemony flavor to so many medicinal blends and remedies, it would be difficult to be without it!

While this, by no means, is a complete list of all the benefits Lemon Balm possesses, it is a nice place to start. Do you use Lemon Balm? What is your favorite way to use it?

Melissa officinalis

5 Reasons Evening Primrose is the Herb for You!

5-reasonsMany of you may be familiar with the benefits of Evening Primrose Oil. For many years now, the seed oil of the Evening Primrose plant has been researched, studied and touted for it’s GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) content, which is a precursor of EFA’s (essential fatty acids). Most of the findings of the more than 100 studies published so far show positive results for a broad range of actions from arthritis, skin issues, and premenstrual syndrome, to a variety of inflammatory problems, cardiovascular disease, and immuno-depression.

However, what you may not know about Evening Primrose, is that the entire plant, not just the oil, is used medicinally. Native to North America, this plant has many traditional uses that go far beyond the seed oil.

 

Respiratory Issues

According to Kiva Rose, a Southwest Herbalist, Evening Primrose has been historically used in bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, whooping cough and similar lung ailments. It is an expectorant and very soothing to the lungs and respiratory system.

 

Skin Conditions

Used by traditional peoples extensively for a variety of issues from snakebite, spider bites and insect bites, to swelling, bruising and other itchy skin disorders, Evening Primrose is an excellent vulnerary. The leaves used as a poultice have even been used successfully for burns and eczema.

 

Women’s Herb

Studies have confirmed the abilities of the Oil of Evening Primrose to reduce hot flash frequency, severity and duration in menopausal women. However, in addition to that, the Evening Primrose plant also excels in the ability to soothe uterine and ovarian cramping. Herbalist, Kiva Rose, notes, “It is wonderful for chronic reproductive inflammation and pelvic congestion, especially when used long term.” According to Herbalpedia, A 1981 clinical study at the St. Thomas Hospital in London gave evening primrose oil to 65 women with premenstrual syndrome and 61% of the participants found their symptoms completely disappeared and another 23% felt partial relief.

 

Digestive Aid

Many Herbalists use Evening Primrose for digestive complaints, especially when there is an anxiety or depression related component. Herbalist, David Winston says, “This is one of the best herbs for GI-related depression.” Similarly, Herbalist, Matthew Wood, notes, “Evening Primrose vitalizes the stomach, stimulates the digestion and strengthens the nerve reflexes pertaining to the liver and spleen.”? In addition, Kiva Rose suggests that Evening Primrose is great for food based anxiety in those recovering from eating disorders.

 

Anti-inflammatory Action

Various studies have proven the value of Evening Primrose in benefiting inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and joint disorders. Furthermore, in 1987, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary of Scotland saw improvement in 60% of its rheumatoid arthritis patients who took a combination of evening primrose and fish oil instead of their regular drugs.

As you can see, while the oil of Evening Primrose has a multitude of medicinal uses, the herb itself is an amazingly useful and beneficial remedy in its own right.

5 Reasons Rose is the Herb for You!

5 Reasons(2)

Do you have roses in your yard? Do you enjoy their aromatic beauty? Did you know that not only is the rose beautiful, but it is also a potent medicinal plant?

For centuries, the rose has been thought of as an ornamental plant, prized for its scent and delicate beauty. A gift of roses has long symbolized love, femininity and romance.

However, the delicate nature of the soft, aromatic rose petal is balanced by the intense, protective thorns that line the stems and guard the exquisite blossoms from harm. This gives us some insight to the nature and strength of it’s medicinal qualities.

 

Astringent and Anti-inflammatory

Scientific studies have now born out what herbalists have known all along – Rose is an excellent anti-inflammatory remedy. Because of this action, it is soothing to sore throats, acne and rosacea, as well as burns and swelling. It’s astringent and anti-bacterial nature makes it a very effective remedy for just about any type of wound, along with GI tract infections.

 

Women’s Issues

Traditionally, the rose is known as a woman’s herb. It has the ability to balance the hormones, strengthen the uterus and act as an aphrodisiac. It can be used very effectively to ease menstrual cramps internally and externally.  Its benefits to the skin are multi-faceted. It can not only balance the skin, but moisturize and rejuvenate it as well. It has been used effectively in anti-aging skin products for centuries.

 

Depression and Grief

Rose has the ability to open the heart and bring comfort and calming to those in need. It is incredibly uplifting and can be used to ease both depression and anxiety. It can be useful in any sort of emotional trauma, fear or stress.

 

Nutrient Rich

Containing a wide range of antioxidants, rose petals and hips are a rich source of nutrition. Rose hips not only contain so much vitamin C that in WWII they were used as a substitute to deliver Vitamin C syrup to troops in Britain, but they, along with other parts of the plant, also contain large amounts of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, Niacin, Bioflavanoids, K, and E as well as polyphenols, pectin and bioflavanoids.

 

Heart Remedy

Rose is not only good for the emotional heart, but the physical heart as well. It is especially indicated in high blood pressure and/or poor circulation, and in those who experience heart palpitations and hot flashes. It also contains heart healthy pectin.

 

rosehips

I enjoy making a variety of different medicinal remedies from the rose plant. Here is my favorite.

What’s yours?

 

 

5 Great Liver Herbs

Dandelion

Dandelion leaf, flower and root can all be used for strengthening and detoxing the liver.

 

 

 

Burdock

Burdock root is a traditional liver herb and commonly eaten in Japan under the name Gobo.

 

 

Yellow Dock

Yellow Dock root has been described through the ages as a “blood cleanser” and has an affinity for the liver and gallbladder.

 

 

 

Oregon Grape Root

Oregon Grape root has an affinity for hot, dry, feverish liver issues.

 

 

 

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is probably one of the most well-known liver herbs. The seeds can be taken long term to protect and nourish the liver.

 

 

What are your favorite liver herbs?

 

 

 

5 to Thrive – 5 Great Herbs for Children

* Chamomile – Wonderful for soothing upset tummies and easing fevers.

 

* Lemon Balm – Soothing, calming and perfect for viral fevers.

 

* Cinnamon – Eases tummy troubles and tastes great too!

 

* Peppermint – Fevers, coughs, tummy-aches – peppermint can help just about anything…

 

*Elderberry – Makes a delicious syrup and supports the immune system at the same time.

 

What herbs do your children love the most?

 

5 to Thrive – 5 Great Spring Herbs

* Dandelion – The leaf, root and flower are all edible and a great herb for a spring detox.

 

* Chickweed – All above ground parts of the herb are a great addition to fresh spring salads.

 

* Nettles – Full of minerals and one of the best sources of plant protein – great for nourishing the body after a long winter.

 

* Cleavers – A great lymphatic cleanser – add immature aerial parts to salads or juice the plant.

 

*Oregon Grape Root – The rhizomes of this plant are a wonderful liver herb, making it a great plant for spring detoxing.

 

What herbs do you like to use in the spring?

 

Herbalism

Herbal medicine has been the dominant form of “health care” since the beginning of human culture. Even today, 75% of the world’s population depends on some form of herbal medicine as their primary source of health care.

Herbs are considered nutrient-rich foods and, as such, can be utilized as dietary supplements benefiting anyone regardless of their level of health, as well as complementing and supporting conventional therapy.

Herbal formulations work in a subtle manner that is harmonious and synergistic with the body’s healing processes. The body’s natural defenses are strengthened, allowing it to heal itself. Herbal remedies don’t just alleviate the symptoms of illness, but actually work towards fixing the underlying cause of the problem.

There are many different ways to incorporate herbs into daily life. One of the best and most meaningful is to grow them yourself. When you work with plants on a daily basis, you get to know them, their “personalities”, their energies. You begin to get an intuitive feeling for their affinities, what they can offer to you, how they can help you flourish, while, in return,  you offer them a healthy place to grow and flourish.

Some of the myriad methods of utilizing herbal medicine include tea blends, glycerine or alcohol tinctures, capsules, oil or vinegar infusions, salves, ointments, liniments, compresses and poultices.

My Journey to Natural Health

My journey in natural healing began almost 20 years ago. To overcome a recurring bout of bronchitis, a friend suggested I try an herbal remedy  instead of the usual course of antibiotics that were obviously not working very well. I was amazed when I recovered in half the time I usually did. What was even more amazing was that my episodes of recurrence became less and less frequent until bronchitis became a thing of the past for me. That did it…..I was hooked….

Within a couple of years, I decided to undertake a course of study in Herbal Medicine with well known herbalist, Cascade Anderson Geller,  in Portland, OR. After completing beginning through advanced courses,  I was unsure of how to put my new-found knowledge to best use. I was not comfortable with the responsibility associated with asking people to put their health in my hands. However, I had a genuine desire to work with herbs. So, after some brainstorming, and a serendipitous class in herbal soap making, I decided to start a business hand crafting herbal soaps and skin care products. My Christmas gift recipients that year became the guinea pigs for my new line of products. Fortunately, they were all well received and Herbs of Grace was born. (Herb of Grace is one of the common names for Ruta graveolens, or Common Rue.)

My main marketing venue for the first several years, aside from my website, was the local farmer’s market in Vancouver, WA. I had a steadily growing base of clientele and the part-time schedule worked well with my growing family which now includes a husband and three daughters.

When my second daughter, Scarlet,  was 10 months old, we attended a birthday party where we later learned we were exposed to strep throat. Right on cue, my daughter developed symptoms that led me to believe she had contracted the illness. After calling our naturopath and describing her symptoms, he confirmed that she most likely had scarlet fever (what did I expect, naming a child Scarlet…) After some research, he advised us to give her Belladonna 30C every 20 minutes for 1 hour and then 3x/day for the next 2-3 days. He said she would probably fall asleep right after the first 3 doses and her fever should break. He also mentioned that the fever may spike again in the evenings, but that was normal over the course of the illness, and that after 2 or 3 days, she should be well. To my delight and relief, she recovered *exactly* as he had described. This experience was a huge turning point in my life and eventually my business. Treating my own illnesses with natural modalities was one thing, but trusting my intuition to forego the mainstream conventional medical treatment in favor of traditional healing wisdom with someone else’s health, moreover my baby’s health, was another thing altogether.  This experience not only cemented my trust in alternative medicine, but it also strengthened my trust in myself and my intuitive healing abilities.

In 2004, within months of the birth of our third daughter, our family had the opportunity to move to Japan for a year. I had just debuted a new line of mineral makeup based on the needs of my clients and it was very well received. Somehow, in my sleep-deprived, post-partum state, I decided that it shouldn’t be too difficult to pack up my business and 3 babes, move to a foreign country where I don’t speak the language and set up shop….So, off we went! That year proved not only to be the most challenging, but by far, one of the most enjoyable I have ever had. One of the biggest obstacles I had to face during the course of our stay in Japan resulted in my decision to stream-line my product offerings by discontinuing everything except the mineral makeup line. While this allowed me to focus on what was really selling well, it also took me away from working with my beloved herbs.

However, my business continued to grow, and by the time we came back to the states, my husband and I decided to take the risk and see if my business could provide for the family on a full-time basis, so we incorporated in January 2006.  For the past 4 years now,  we have been working from our farmhouse in rural western Washington, unschooling our girls, growing some of our own food, teaching belly dance classes on the side and now have Herbs of Grace Natural Look Mineral Makeup placed in over 60 retail locations nationwide.

Our decision has required us to forgo many things. We live closer to the earth, which has been a blessing to me. It has afforded me the chance to grow, harvest and use my own herbs for the first time, and I feel like I am literally getting back to my roots as an herbalist. Having these experiences has ignited in me the desire to incorporate natural medicine into my business… and having had so many wonderful experiences with homeopathy over the years, such as the one I mentioned earlier, I feel like I am now ready for that responsibility. These events led me to the British Institute of Homeopathy to enroll in the General Diploma of Homeopathy program.

I have a deep passion to continue the herbal and homeopathic traditions of the past and expand awareness of more natural, gentle forms of healing. I believe it is important at this point in time to remind people not only of their innate power to heal themselves, but also their responsibility to do just that. Herbalism and homeopathy have been a very empowering force in my life and I hope to share that experience with others. As I continue to add to my knowledge of natural healing modalities, I have decided the best way to share my skills is to put the “herbs” back into Herbs of Grace by offering consultations in natural health, specializing in herbalism and homeopathy.


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