The Art of Making Incense

The alluring and transcendent aroma of pure incense has been used throughout time for both spiritual and practical applications. With just a few ingredients, you can easily craft dozens of aromatic sticks, cones, and cylinders at home. Watch this tutorial from our friends at Mountain Rose Herbs and also there is a special recipe below.

Wintertide Aroma Blend

• 4 parts Lemongrass powder
• 3 parts Makko powder
• 2 parts Frankincense powder
• 2 parts Myrrh powder
• 1 part Benzoin Gum powder

Follow the instructions in the video and enjoy!

Herbal Iron Syrup

As a woman, it's important to make sure I eat healthy, and intake the proper amount of vitamins and minerals. This formula below, taken from Rosemary Gladstars' Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health, is loaded with vitamins and minerals, especially iron, in which women are most often deficient. And it's tasty too!

Ingredients

• 3 parts dandelion leaf
• 3 parts dandelion root
• 3 parts nettle
• 3 parts raspberry leaf
• 2 parts alfalfa leaf
• 2 parts yellow dock root
• 1 part hawthorn berry
• honey

Combine all the herbs. Now with the honey, we will make a syrup

1. Use 2 ounces of herb mixture to 1 quart of water. Over low heat, simmer the liquid down to 1 pint. This will give you a very concentrated tea.
2. Strain the herbs from the liquid. Pour the liquid back into the pot.
3. To each pint of liquid, add 1 cup of honey (or other sweetener, such as maple syrup, vegetable glycerin, or brown sugar). 
4. Warm the honey and the liquid together only enough to mix well. Most recipes instruct you to cook the honey and the tea together for 20 to 30 minutes over high heat to thicken further. This will make it thicker, but will also cook out the living enzymes in the honey.
5. When the syrup is thoroughly mixed, you may wish to add a fruit concentrate to flavor, or a couple of drops of essential oil, such as peppermint or spearmint, or a small amount of brandy to help preserve the syrup and to aid as a relaxant in cough formulas.
6. Remove the syrup from the heat. For every 2 cups of syrup add the following:

• 1/4 cups brandy
• 1/4 cup fruit concentrate
• 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
• 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast
• 2 teaspoons spirulina powder

     7.  Stir well, then bottle, seal, and label. Store in the refrigerator, where the syrup will keep for
          several months. Take 4 to 6 tablespoons daily. 

Flu Remedies

Flu season is here and if you are like me, I am not too keen on getting a flu shot. Just my personal decision. So here are some home remedies taken from Jude's Herbal Home Remedies that can help ease the symptoms if you get the flu. Remember, these are not to replace the care of a doctor if you start experiencing severe symptoms.

Flu Remedy Using Elder Flowers

• Pour 4 cups of boiling water over 2 tablespoons each of elder flowers and peppermint leaves. Cover and let steep 15 minutes. Strain and sweeten. Give 1 cup of warm flu remedy every hour to produce sweating.

Flu Remedy Using White Yarrow

• Put 1 tablespoon each of white yarrow, boneset, and skullcap in 2 cups of water. Simmer for 30 minutes. Strain. Add 1 tablespoon of this liquid and 1 teaspoon of psyllium seed, flavored to taste, to one cup of boiling water. Sweeten with corn syrup. Drink every 30 minutes. This takes care of backaches and headaches too.

 

 Flu Symptoms

• Pour 8 cups boiling water over 2 tablespoons of dried sage. Add the juice of 1 lemon and 1 orange, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Mix well, cover, and steep for 1 hour. Strain and drink as often as desired. Reheat as needed.

Herbal Compresses, Poultice, and Fomentation.

Today I wanted to share a couple of videos on herbal compresses, poultice, and fomentation. I love the idea of using nature to heal and these are great ways to do so. It's cheaper, especially if you grow your own herbs, and very effective. Obviously if you are bleeding profusely or have a severe injury, seek medical attention. Herbal compresses and poultices are great for minor scrapes and cuts or abrasions. 

Part 1

Part 2

Homemade Ways to Keep the Kids Busy

So it's a cold winter day, a rainy day, or just too hot to go outside. Whatever the weather, you are indoors and the kids are driving you bonkers. Well here are some things to do to keep the little ones busy.

Bookmarks

• To make attractive book marks, dry an herb of your choice between absorbent paper. Press it flat with something heavy. 
• When dry, place between two pieces of plastic. You can cut the plastic into a shape or design that you find pleasing. 
• Anchor with glue, punch holes around the edge, and lace with yarn or embroidery thread.

Easter Eggs

• Wrap the eggs with onion skins and cover in foil. The eggs come out golden.
• Use melted beeswax to put names or designs on the eggs. 
• While they are writing on the eggs, place brown or red onion skins in an old pan and cover with water. 
• Heat the water to boiling. 
• Add designed eggs and boil slowly for 30 minutes. Remove and dry.

 

 

Finger Paints

• Mix 2 cups cold water with 1/4 cup of cornstarch. 
• Add food coloring.

• You can also store this in the refrigerator for later use. 

Modeling Clay

• Mix together 1/2 cup of salt, 1 cup of flour, and 3 teaspoons of alum.
• Add food coloring and enough water to make a nice clay. 
• Keep in a covered jar, kneading in more water if it becomes too dry.

Brain Alert Formula

When you are in a fog, or are having trouble remembering things and focusing, try this brain-boosting formula. You can make this formula as capsules or a tincture.

Ingredients

• 2 parts ginkgo
• 2 parts gotu kola
• 1 part blueberries or bilberries (dried)
• 1 part reishi mushroom
• 1/4 part rosemary

Capsules
To make capsules, powder the herbs in a small grinder or blender and use them to fill size 00 capsules. Take 2 capsules three times daily. Here is a video showing how to make capsules using a capsule machine.

Tincture
Combine all your herbs in a glass jar. Pour enough of your solvent (80 proof vodka, vegetable glycerin, apple cider vinegar-whichever you choose) to cover the herbs, and continue pouring until the liquid rises 2 to 3 inches above the herbs. Cover with a tight-fitting lid. If using glycerin, dilute it with an equal amount of water before pouring over the herbs. If using vinegar, warm it first. Place the jar in a warm location and let the herbs and liquid soak or macerate for 4 to 6 weeks-the longer the better. Shake the bottle daily during the maceration period. Strain the herbs using a large stainless-steel strainer lined with cheesecloth or muslin. Reserve the liquid and compost the herbs. Rebottle and label. Store in a cool, dark location where it will keep indefinitely. Take 1 to 2 teaspoons three times daily.

Rosemary Gladstar's Love-My-Breast Massage Oil

Just because Breast Cancer awareness month is over, doesn't mean to stop being aware of your breasts. This massage oil is not only stimulating, but is so good for your breast health, and overall health as well.

This herbal oil can be used for a stimulating massage. Comfrey is a marvelous herb for the skin, strengthening and healing tissue. Calendula flowers are particularly useful for the lymphatic system and are of tremendous aid in treating fibrocystic conditions. Lavender increases circulation to the breast area and activates the immune system. Pine essential oil also increases blood flow to the breast area and contains compounds that have been proved to destroy cancerous cells. Rosemary is warming and decongesting and stimulates the lymph tissue.

Ingredients

• 1/2 oz dried or fresh calendula flowers
• 1/2 oz dried or fresh comfrey leaf
• 2 cups almond oil
• 12 drops lavender essential oil
• 6 drops pine essential oil
• 6 drops rosemary essential oil

*Prep time is 4 weeks for infused oil. 

Directions

1. Infuse the calenda and comfrey in the almond oil (Place herbs and the oil in a glass jar; cover tightly. Place the jar in a warm, sunny spot and let steep for 2 weeks. Strain the oil through cheesecloth or muslin. Then add a fresh batch of herbs to the oil and infuse for 2 more weeks. Strain again. This will give you a very potent medicinal oil.) Add the essential oils to the infused oil.
2. For fibrocystic breast condition or swollen, sore breasts, add 1 ounce of pokeroot infused oil or 12 drops of pokeroot tincture to the massage oil. Pokeroot can be irritating to the skin, so use only in recommended amount. Do not ingest the berries or the mature stalks and leaves, which are toxic.
3. Apply a small amount of massage oil to your breasts.
4. Cupping your breasts in your hands, move them in a circular motion, rotating outward, away from each other. Use your whole hand, feeling the entire mass of your breast moving beneath it. This motion can be fairly quick or slow and rythmic, whichever feels better to you. Do this 25 times.
5. Still cupping your breasts in your hands, rotate them inward, toward each other, another 25 times.
6. Repeat step 4, massaging your breast in an outward motion 25 times.

Damiana Chocolate Love Liqueur

When you need that something extra on that special night, this blend, from the love goddess herself, Diana DeLuca, is dangerously, lip-smacking good-and daringly easy to prepare. Prepare it ahead of time and serve it at the beginning of a hot date.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce damiana leaves (dried)
• 2 cups vodka or brandy
• 1 1/2 cups spring water
• 1 cup honey
• Vanilla extract
• Rose water
• Chocolate syrup
• Almond extract

Directions:

1. Soak the damiana leaves in the vodka or brandy for 5 days. Strain; reserve the liquid in a bottle.
2. Soak the alcohol-drenched leaves in the spring water for 3 days. Strain and reserve the liquid.
3. Over low heat, gently warm the water extract and dissolve the honey in it. Remove the pan from the heat, then add the alcohol extract and stir well. Pour into a clean bottle and add a dash of vanilla and a touch of rose water for flavor. Let it mellow for 1 month or longer; it gets smoother with age.
4. To each cup of damiana liqueur, add 1/2 cup chocolate syrup, 2 or 3 drops of almond extract, and a touch more of rose water.
5. Drink at the beginning of your date and watch the sparks fly!

How To Make Herbal Capsules

This is a very fun, do it yourself project when it comes to herbs. You can make capsules out of any herb really, and it's certainly a lot cheaper and safer making your own. You can find just about any herbal capsule in Walmart today, in the vitamin section, but I just feel it's nice to make your own, knowing exactly where your herb came from. So today's video lesson is on making your own herbal capsules. Enjoy!

Note: Please visit www.facebook.com/naturallivingef for more information on herbs and also check out other blog posts here.

How To Make Herbal Honey with Lavender

Ok I am actually in the process of making this right now and I have to say, I have been sneaking little tastes when I stir it and it is delicious!! This is by far one of the easiest things to make so I encourage everyone to give it a try. If anyone has rose bushes and tries this recipe with their rose petals, please let me know how it turns out! Enjoy!

Order your herbs and ingredients below:

How To Make An Herbal Lip Balm

Some of these videos are a bit long and John talks a bunch lol, but the end result is amazing. I can't believe how easy it is to make such wonderful products. And because you can make so much, why not consider using as Christmas gifts? In this video, we are learning to make an herbal lip balm using the infused oil we made previously, or any other oil you want to use. All products can be purchased at www.mountainroseherbs.com. Enjoy!

How To Make An Herbal Salve

In this lesson, we learn to take the infused oil we made previously and make a salve that can be used to treat wounds, almost like Neosporin. Enjoy!

Coffee For Cancer Fundraiser

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am holding a special fundraiser, Coffee for Cancer. Any amount is helpful and those who donate $30 or more will receive a free box of Organo Gold Black or Latte coffee. The herb infused in this coffee, Ganoderma Lucidum, has anticarcinogenic properties and boosts the immune system. Thank you so much for your consideration!

Learn With Me/How To Make An Infused Oil

Today's video is a lesson on making herbal infused oils. In this video, John makes an infused oil using Calendula flowers and Comfrey leaf. I recommend starting with Calendula, as you can use it later in a salve or lip balm, two videos I will be sharing later. Calendula is soothing for the skin so using the infused oil for salves or for a lip balm will be excellent. Enjoy!

Learn With Me/How To Make A Tincture

Hello everyone! So I am going to start sharing with you some of my favorite videos on how to use your herbs to make infused oils, salves, tinctures, linaments, and more! In my studies, I am asked to watch these videos and I felt I must share them with the rest of you so you can learn with me. It's quite fun experimenting with different herbs and making your own medicine or beauty products. So enjoy this first video which will teach you how to make a basic tincture. Remember: Please research each herb you use before taking it internally or using it externally. You will want to start with one herb, make an oil, make a tea, make a tincture, make a salve, then you can start with multiple herbs. But make sure you understand what each herb is used for. Have fun!

Baby Care

Though there is a wonderful variety of natural baby-care products on the market, it's delightful, simple, and far less costly to make your own.

Baby's Bath Herbs

Use the following mixture in the bathwater. These herbs are soothing and relaxing--for Mom and Dad, too.

• 2 parts Calendula
• 2 parts Chamomile
• 2 parts Comfrey leaf
• 1 part Lavender
• 1 part Roses

Mix all the herbs. Place a small handful of the mixture in a cotton bag and toss it into the baby's bathwater. Use the fragrant herbal bag as a washcloth.

Baby Powder
This is an excellent daily baby powder. You may wish to lightly scent it, but use only pure essential oil and be certain it is not irritating to the child's sensitive skin. Orange oil is light and refreshing and often used as the scent for baby powders.

• 2 parts Arrowroot powder
• 2 parts While Clay (available in natural foods stores and ceramic supply stores)
• 1/4 part Comfrey Root powder
• 1/4 part Slippery Elm or Marsh Mallow Root powder

Mix the ingredients together and place in a container with a shaker top, such as a spice jar.
To treat diaper rash, add to this mixture 1/8 part organically grown Goldenseal powder, 1/8 part Myrrh powder, and 1/8 part Echinacea powder. Apply as a powder, or mix into a thin paste and apply as a poultice to the rash.

Baby Oil
This is an excellent all-purpose oil and is wonderful to rub on baby after baths. It also makes a great massage oil for babies.

• 1 ounce Chamomile
• 1/2 ounce Comfrey leaf
• 1/2 ounce roses
• 1 pint Apricot or Almond Oil

Mix herbs and oil and let sit in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for 2 weeks in a warm, sunny spot.
For stronger oil, pour the mixture into the top of a double boiler. Slowly warm it over very low heat for 1 hour. Strain and bottle. You may lightly scent it with a few drops of pure essential oil, such as lavender, rose, or chamomile. Use at room temperature.

Herbs And Children

Herbs can be used with confidence for simple ailments such as colds, colic, and teething, as well as the many common childhood illnesses that children often contract. Herbs can also be used as supplements to our modern system of allopathic medicine when dealing with more complicated health problems. Contrary to popular opinion, herbs and orthodox medicine are not at odds, but are two systems of healing that can complement each other. Consult your physician or holistic health care prodvider for guidelines on using allopathic drugs and herbal remedies in combination.  Almost any herb that is safe for an adult is safe for a child as long as the size and weight of the child are accounted for and the dosage is adjusted accordingly. Always perform a small dose test to see how it works for your child. A patch test is a good safety measure test. Make an herb tea, then "paint" a small amount onto the skin of the inner arm. Wait 24 hours to check for a reaction such as a skin rash, itchy eyes, throat swelling, or itchiness. As with any medicine, make sure to keep herbal preparations out of reach of children. 

Suggested dosages for children: When adult dosage is 1 cup (8 oz.)

Age-Younger than 2 years-1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon
Age-2 to 4 years-2 teaspoons
Age-4 to 7 years-1 tablespoon
Age-7 to 11 years-2 tablespoons

When adult dosage is 1 teaspoon or 60 grains/drops

Age-Younger than 3 months-2 grains/drops
Age-3 to 6 months-3 grains/drops
Age-6 to 9 months-4 grains/drops
Age-9 to 12 months-5 grains/drops
Age-12 to 18 months-7 grains/drops
Age-18 to 24 months-8 grains/drops
Age-2 to 3 years-10 grains/drops
Age-3 to 4 years-12 grains/drops
Age-4 to 6 years-15 grains/drops
Age-6 to 9 years-24 grains/drops
Age-9 to 12 years-30 grains/drops

Herb Candy

1. Grind raisins, dates, apricots, and walnuts in a food processor or grinder. Alternatively, you can mix nut butter (such as peanut, almond, or cashew) with honey in equal portions, then proceed with the rest of the steps. Note: If you don't want to use honey for small children, use maple syrup, rice syrup, or maple cream.
2. Stir in shredded coconut (the unsweetened type) and carob powder.
3. Add the herb powders. Mix well.
4. Roll the mixture into balls. Roll the balls in powdered carob and coconut. Store in the refrigerator.

 Determine the dosage by using the chart above and divide the candy into once-daily dosages.

Herbal Pops for Kids

Herbal pops are a fun and easy way to get a child to take his or her prescribed tea formula. They are refreshing in the summertime and provide the wonderful healing properties of the herbs in a delicious and fun form. Because they are so cold, I do not recommend them for cold types of imbalances such as flu, colic, ear infections, or respiratory infections. The cold makes them excellent for teething babies, however. 

To make herbal pops:

1. Make a strong tea by using 3 to 9 tablespoons of herb per cup of hot water. Strain.
2. Dilute the tea with an equal amount of apple juice or any other favorite juice. 
3. Pour into ice-pop trays; freeze.

Herb of The Day: Self-heal/Oil and Cream

Continued from my post on Facebook, here are the recipes for the Self-heal infused oil and also the Self-heal cream.

Self-heal Infused Oil

• Fill a jar with fresh self-heal blossoms and leaves. 
• Pour olive oil in to fill the jar, stirring as you do so to allow air bubbles to escape. 
• Cover the jar with a piece of cloth held on with a rubber band-this will allow any moisture to evaporate.
• Place the jar on a sunny window sill.
• Check the jar every few days, and if necessary push the plant material back down under the surface of the oil. 
• After 2 to 4 weeks the color will have drained out of the plants.
• Strain off the oil. 
• Allow it to settle, so that any water will sink to the bottom, then pour the oil carefully into bottles and label.
• This oil will keep for several years, but it is best to make a fresh batch every summer if you can.

Self-heal Cream

• To make a cream, you will be using some of the self-heal oil you have made, and combining it with a strong self-heal tea (see post on our facebook page for directions on making tea). This cream recipe can be used for other herbs or combinations of herbs too.

1. 2 fl oz oil
2. 3/4 oz beeswax
3. 2 fl oz tea

• Put the oil and beeswax in one bowl and the infusion in another, and stand them both in a large pan of hot water. 
• Heat until the beeswax melts.
• It is important that they are both the same temperature.
• Slowly pour the tea into the oil mixture while beating with an electric mixer set at the slowest speed.
• Once all the oil is mixed in and the mixture has emulsified and thickened, pour the cream into clean jars. 
• Once set, label, and store in a cool place or in the fridege.

Use the oil and cream for cuts, sores, wounds, aches and pains, and swellings in the throat.

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Detoxification

The following herbs are the best for detoxifying the body naturally.

Dandelion and burdock root- If you buy an herbal detoxification formula, chances are its prime ingredients will be either dandelion or burdock root. But why buy it when you can get the fresh root for free? They are used worldwide whenever liver-related problems are involved. Both promote kidney function, too, and have abundant minerals to replace any that may be eliminated in urine. Dandelion tremendously benefits the digestive system, while burdock excels at alleviating chronic skin disorders and eruptions.

Red clover- Daily doses of red clover tea will help reduce the symptoms from steroids, radiation, or chemotherapy. It also has mild blood-thinning capabilities, making it useful as a preventative for arteriosclerosis and high cholesterol.

Thyme- Drink a cup of thyme tea to recover from big night out. It will ease headache, nervousness, and the queasy stomach of a hangover more effectively and safely than over-the-counter sedatives or pain relievers.

Borage- Borage seed oil helps ease the stress from long term metabolic disorders such as menopausal distress, alcoholism, obesity, and steroid treatments. It also offers quick relief to a hangover.

Make-It-Yourself Herbal Shampoo

Herbal shampoo is incredibly easy to make, and you can tailor the ingredients to meet your needs. There's a wide variety of essential oils to choose from, depending on whether you want to give your tresses a delicate aroma, treat dry scalp, or promote hair growth.

All of the ingredients can be found in natural food stores. If your hair is exceptionally oily, you may find it better to replace the jojoba oil (a wonderful nongreasy nutrient) with rosemary essential oil.

First let's start with a list of essential oils as they relate to hair type and their effect:

 

Basil

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Promotes growth

Chamomile

Hair Type: Fine to normal

Effect or Treatment: Gives golden highlights

Clary Sage

Hair Type: All types

Effect or Treatment: Dandruff treatment

Lavender

Hair Type: Normal

Effect or Treatment: Scalp treatment for itchiness, dandruff, and even lice!

Lemon

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Gives golden highlights; treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands.

Myrrh

Hair Type: Dry

Effect or Treatment: Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands.

Patchouli

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Dandruff treatment

Peppermint

Hair Type: Dry

Effect or Treatment: Promotes hair growth

Rose

Hair Type: Fine

Effect or Treatment: Soothes scalp

Rosemary

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Dandruff treatment; promotes hair growth

Tea Tree

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands.

Ylang-yang

Hair Type: Oily

Effect or Treatment: Dandruff treatment

Make-It-Yourself Herbal Shampoo

• 8 ounces distilled water
• 1 ounce herbs (list below of herbal combinations for different hair types)
• 3 ounces liquid castile soap
• 1/4 teaspoon jojoba oil
• 25 drops of pure essential oil (from chart above)

1. Bring the water to a boil. Add the herbs, cover, and let simmer over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and cool.
2. Slowly add the castile soap to the tea, then mix in the jojoba oil and essential oil. Store in a plastic container with a flip-top lid in the shower or bath. Shake before using.

Herb Combinations

 

Goldie Locks Infusion (Use this formula for golden highlights)

• 2 parts calendula flower
• 1 part chamomile flower
• 1 part comfrey leaf

Dark of the Night Infusion (To effect dark highlights, try this formula)

• 2 parts garden sage leaf
• 1 part black walnut hull, chopped
• 1 part comfrey leaf

Desert Bloom Infusion (Desert Bloom is an excellent formula for dry hair)

• 1 part calendula flower
• 1 part marsh mallow root
• 1 part nettle leaf

Rapunzel's Locks Infusion (Bothered by oil hair? Use this astringent recipe)

• 1 part rosemary leaf
• 1 part witch hazel bark (not extract)
• 1 part yarrow leaf and flower

Fu Zheng Tonic Immune Therapy

"The basic strategy in the treatment of cancer involves improving the health and natural immunity of the patient overall and secondly dissolving the tumor by killing the more vulnerable cancer cells. Herbs and herbal preparations have the ability to treat cancer both through necrosis and apoptosis. 

Fu zheng is a therapeutic approach to protecting the "righteous qi" of the body, which represents all those aspects that we would not want to compromise when our system's immune system is under attack. The Fu zheng formula listed below is just one of many different types of formulas typically taken to maintain the immune system under all circumstances or when one must undergo chemo- or radiotherapy.

Formal 75 (REISHI MUSHROOM COMPLEX)

Reishi mycelial biomass

Shiitake mycelial biomass

Siberian ginseng extract

Schizandra

Astragalus

Atractlyodes

Grifola

Ligustrum

Poria cocos

Reishi mushroom extract

Polygala

Ginger root

Green citrus peel

Reishi Mushroom Complex combines fu zheng herbs in a special formulation useful for cancer patients undergoing conventional Western medical treatment, for individuals with a depleted immune system, and for protecting one from sickness. The reishi mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum) has a sweet and warm energy, is both sedative and tonic, is a supreme deep immune system tonic, and nourishes the spirit, essence, and vital energy. It has strong anticarcinogenic properties and is rich in a number of complex phytochemicals, including ergosterol, fumaric acid, aminoglucose, and manitol; coumarins; alkaloids; lactone; and various enzymes. It is effective for all cancers and immune system deficiencies. As such, it is specific for individuals recovering from chemotherapy."

~The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.

If you or someone you know is suffering from any type of cancer or immune system deficiency, please consider starting a reishi mushroom treatment. Visit www.4naturalliving.organogold.com today and browse our beverage and neutraceutical products. All of the coffee and tea products have been infused with 100% Certified Organic Ganoderma Lucidum (reishi extract). We also have Ganoderma Lucidum (reishi extract) available as a supplement as well as Mycelium (reishi mycelial). Take along with the other ingredients of the formula listed above and try a more organic, herbal approach to your health and healing as well as for your loved ones. 

Allow healing to take place without any harsh side affects or damage to organs. Replenish your body, spirit, and life once and for all.

*The medical information on this blog is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.

10 Superfoods For The Male System

Good health is not a complicated matter. Being in good health doesn't mean you are never sick, or tired, or sore, or depressed. But it does mean that you feel hardy most of the time; your body is invigorated and your spirits are high. Maintaining good health requires excellent daily habits and practices. Preventing, rather than treating, problems is the key to living a long, high-quality life.

Here are 10 superfoods for the male system to ensure you feel at your best everyday!

1. Chicken- Contains high-quality proteins  
2. Cultured milks, such as buttermilk- Aids digestion; supports the immune system
3. Dark-green leafy vegetables- Excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber 
4. Fish- Contains high-quality proteins 
5. Fresh fruit- Excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber 
6. Pumpkin seeds- Rich in zinc; excellent for the prostate 
7. Sesame seeds- Calcium-rich; support the nervous system 
8. Sesame or tahini butter- Calcium-rich 
9. Squash seeds- High in zinc; good for the prostate and male glandular system 
10. Yogurt- Aids digestion; supports the immune system.

Herbal Facial Steams

To perform a facial steam, bring 2 to 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Toss in a healthy handful of herbs, cover, and let simmer for just a couple of minutes. Then remove the pot from the heat source and place it on a heatproof surface at a level that will enable you to comfortably sit and place your face over the pot. Leaning over the pot, drape a large, thick towel over both your head and the pot, capturing the steaming herb water. It will get very hot under the towel. Life a corner to let a little cool air in and take an occasional break to catch a breath of cool air if necessary. Steam for 5 to 8 minutes.

Steam for Dry to Normal Skin

• 3 parts comfrey leaf
• 2 parts calendula
• 2 parts chamomile
• 2 part roses
• 1 part lavender

Steam for Normal to Oily Skin

• 3 parts comfrey leaf
• 2 parts calendula
• 1 part raspberry leaf
• 1 part sage
• 1/4 part rosemary

Combine the herbs, adjusting the amounts to suit your skin type. Store in an airtight glass bottle. Use as instructed above for a facial steam.

Getting To Know Herbs

Don't wait until you're sick to use herbs. The best way to cure illness is not to become ill, and there is a wonderful variety of longevity, nutritive, and tonic herbs that can and should be used daily to enhance wellness.

Nutritive herbs to make a regular part of your diet include horsetail, passionflower, cleavers, chickweed, red clover, and lemon balm.

Tonic herbs feed, tone rehabilitate, and strengthen particular body systems. Tonics for particular systems are listed in the chart below.

Longevity herbs are not life extenders; what they will do is increase quality of life, so that you feel better and better as you grow older. Our very common weeds are the most vital healing plants. They are powerful and abundant, and the more you try to run over them and dig them out, the happier they are. It is the weeds, those vulgar plants that grow everywhere, challenging us, that espouse true vitality and a passion for life. These are the longevity herbs. When their hardy spirits come into you, they feed you and make you stronger.

This is a quick look at the herbs and supplements that are used to maintain the health and vitality of various parts of the body. Use these herbs on a regular basis for best effect.

Body Part or System              Herb or Supplement

Blood                                        Burdock, dandelion

Bones                                       Nettle, oats

Brain                                        Ginkgo, gotu kola

Eyes                                         Bilberry, lutein

Heart (cardiovascular system)     Cayenne, garlic, hawthorn

Kidneys                                    Dandelion leaf, nettle

Liver                                         Burdock root, dandelion root

Muscles                                    Fo-ti, glucosamine sulfate

Nerves                                      Ginseng, nettle, oats

Nervous system (endurance        Fo-ti, American ginseng, Siberian ginseng

and stamina)                  

Spirit                                        Flower essences, kava-kava        

These weedy wonders are both versatile and effective medicinal herbs. Make friends with them!

• Burdock-Rich in vitamins and minerals, burdock is excellent for the skin and is a superior blood purifier.
• Chickweed-Chickweed is rich in calcium, potassium, and iron. With its emollient and demulcent actions, it is an exceptional poultice herb and is excellent for skin irritations and eye inflammation. Chickweed is also a mild and safe diuretic.
• Cleavers-Another mild, safe diuretic, cleavers is used to tone and soothe irriattions of the kidneys and urinary tract. It is also an excellent lymphatic cleanser.
• Coltsfoot-An antiasthmatic and expectorant, coltsfoot is excellent for coughs, colds, and brochial congetsion, helpnig dilate the bronchiaoles and expel mucus.
• Dandelion-This common weed is an excellent tonic herb, a prized digestive bitter, one of the safest and most effective diuretics, and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins A and C.

Herbs like burdock root and others can be purchased by the ounce at: http://www.thegreeneyedowl.org/apps/webstore/products
or
www.mountainroseherbs.com 

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Garden Tips-Rose Care

All kinds of little critters and other diseases will love to make your beautiful rose bush a tasty treat and a permanent home. Roses can be the most beautiful, lush plant in your garden, or a garden disaster. Here are some tips for keeping them healthy and bug free.

Rose Care Using Garlic

Put several cloves of garlic in the blender with water. Blend well and use as a spray to control aphids.

Rose Care Using Tobacco

Put tobacco in the blender and add water. Blend well and use this as a spray to control aphids.

Rose Care Using Turnips and Anise

Turnips and anise, planted around the roses, will discourage aphids and spider mites.

Home Remedy Subject Of The Day: Diabetes

Green Beans

The skins of the green bean pods are said to contain substances that are related to insulin. Place 4 cups of green bean pods in about 1 gallon of water and cook them until soft. Strain the pods from the liquid and drink 3 cups daily with meals. One cup is said to equal 1 unit of insulin.

Strawberry Tea

Diabetics will benefit from drinking strawberry tea. Place 4-5 fresh leaves in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep 15 minutes. Strain and drink.

Wild Carrot Tea

Diabetics are said to benefit from drinking tea made from wild carrots (Queen Anne's lace). Place several blossoms in 1 cup of boiling water and steep 10 minutes. Strain and drink several cups a day.

Blueberry Tea

Put 1 teaspoon of dried and crushed blueberry leaves in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep 15 minutes. Strain and drink every 6 hours.

Home Made Dandelion Jelly

Dandelion Jelly

• Pick 1 1/2 quarts of dandelion blossoms.
• Take the stems off. Rinse the blossoms well.
• Add 3 cups of water and boil for about 3 minutes.
• Drain well and add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract to 2/3 cup of the liquid.
• Mix in a box of pectin and bring to a rolling boil.
• Add 4 1/2 cups of sugar all at once to the mixture.
• Bring again to a boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. 
• Remove from heat and skim off top. 
• Put in sterile jars immediately and seal.

Herbs You Can Smoke For Treatment

  For direct treatment of coughs and bronchial congestion, some herbs are smoked. This will provide immediate, but temporary, relief for the condition. Unlike tobacco, the herbs which are smoked for therapeutic purposes contain no nicotine or other addicting substances.

  A small amount of the herb is smoked in a pipe, or a water pipe. The lungs are filled with smoke and then this is fully exhaled. Inhale smoke about six to ten times for a single treatment.

  The most commonly used herbs that are smoked are coltsfoot, rosemary, mullein, yerba santa and sarsaparilla. To aid in quitting smoking tobacco, lobelia, also known as Indian tobacco, is smoked. It contains lobeline, which is similar to nicotine but does not have the same set of effects. Thus it reduces the sensation of need for nicotine, but does not provide the effects that lead to addictive smoking.

  In China, "Asthma Allaying Cigarettes" are commonly used in the treatment of asthma. They contain about a dozen herbs and have been extensively tested to reveal their efficacy in reducing lung congestion and aiding expectoration.

  Mugwort and catnip have been smoked for their calming affects to treat insomnia and restlessness. Damiana has been smoked for its aphrodisiac effects.

  Peppermint is adding to smoking blends for its cooling menthol. Licorice is added to provide a sweet flavor. 

  The smoking of herbs should only be an occasional practice, done with proper concern for the ability of the lungs to remove smoke particles and tars that are an inevitable result of burning plant materials.

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Treating Arthritis

Arthritis Cocktail

Mix well 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 1 ounce apple cider vinegar. Drink once a day. You should be free of symptoms after using daily for 1 month.

Arthritis Treatment with Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix 4 cups of apple cider vinegar to 4 cups of hot water. Dip a cloth into the hot vinegar water and apply as a compress to the affected area. Put a heating pad over the compress and keep on for 30 minutes.

Arthritis Treatment with Barley Tea

Barley tea is an excellent way to treat arthritis. Make a tea by soaking 1 cup of unhulled barley in 8 cups of boiling water for 3 hours. Strain and keep refrigerated. Drink 1 cup twice daily.

Arthritis Treatment with Cod-liver Oil

Put 2 tablespoons of cod-liver oil in a glass of warm milk and drink twice daily. This will reduce inflammation of the joint tissue, thus reducing pain.

Arthritis Treatment with Herbs

Mix 1 tablespoon each of corn silk, broom flowers, skullcap, and boneset. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tablespoon of herb mixture and steep 15 minutes. Strain and sweeten. Drink with meals.

Arthritis Treatment with Ginger

Fill #00 capsules with ginger and take 2 daily. This will reduce pain and swelling after several months of treatment.

Arthritis Treatment with Parsley

Add 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley to 1 cup of boiling water. Let steep 15 minutes. Strain and sweeten. Add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ginger to the tea and drink hot. Drink at every meal.

Bath Treatment for Arthritis with Epsom Salts

Put 1 cup of espom salts in your bath water (draw the bath as hot as you can stand it) and soak 20 minutes a day.

Bath Treatment for Arthritis with Sea Salt

Put several cups of sea salt in hot bath water and soak in the bath for at least 20 minutes every day.

Pain Relief for Rheumatic Joints or Arthritis

Put 2 cups of rosemary in 3 cups of brandy. Steep for 1 week. Strain and use the liquid as a poultice for the affected joints.

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Insomnia

If you are feeling restless or suffer from insomnia, try some of these herbal remedies for a good nights rest.

Sedative with Lettuce
Cooked lettuce is a great relaxant. Lettuce tea is a fast-acting sedative. Simply pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 cup shredded lettuce and steep 30 minutes. Strain and drink before bed. Use to release tension or to help you sleep if you suffer from insomnia. Great to use while a patient is recovering from any illness. It keeps them from getting restless and helps them get the rest they need in order for the body to finish the healing process.

Sleep Aid with Buttermilk
Drinking buttermilk before retiring aids in a good night's sleep.

Sleep Aid with Milk
Heat 1 cup of milk and add 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Drink half hour before retiring.

Sleep Aid with Oatmeal
Make oatmeal as you normally would, but add milk enough to make a thin gruel. Drink this before bed as an aid in getting to sleep. This is a very relaxing way to get children to sleep. It seems to soothe them and make their tummies feel warm and full. It is also good to use during bouts of illness, as it does sooth the stomach and settle upsets, while being nutritious. Make it very special by adding sugar and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Children really do love this. It helps restless children get a good night's sleep.

Sleep Help with Apple
Eating an apple before bedtime seems to help put you to sleep.

Sedative with Catnip-Mild
Pour 2 cups of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried catnip. Cover and steep until cool. Flavor if desired. Strain and sweeten. For children, give 1 teaspoon; adults get 2 tablespoons.



Yawn Yourself to Sleep
If you suffer from insomnia, simply practice yawning. Before you know it, you will be asleep.

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Sinus Relief

Sinus congestion is no fun. Try some of these home remedies for relief.

Sinus Congestion

• Eat 2 garlic cloves 3 times a day for 1 week. Sinuses should start draining toward the end of the week.

Sinus Treatment with Epsom Salts

• Run water until very cold.
• Mix together 2 cups cold water with 1 tablespoon of epsom salts and 2 teaspoons of bicarbonate soda. 
• Dip clean cloth in the liquid and place over sinus area.
• Replace to keep area cold.
• Relieves stuffy nose fast. Good to use during a cold.

Sinus Treatment with Honeycaps

• Chewing honeycaps from the combs of honey is said to cure sinus problems.

Stuffy Nose Relief with Thyme

• Put 1/4 cup lemon thyme in 4 cups of water. 
• Boil and inhale the steam. This clears a stuffy nose.

Clear Head Cold with Apple Cider Vinegar

• Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and water.
• Bring to a boil and inhale the fumes.

Clear Stuffy Nose with Ice Cubes

• Place several trays of ice cubes in a basin of water and place only the toes in the water until numb. Sounds crazy, but it works.

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Rosemary Tincture

This tincture is good to take internally to prevent colds or to fight infections. Because of the antibiotic nature of this tincture, it is also good to use to clean cuts and scrapes. It removes bacteria and prevents infections.

Add 1/2 cup of rosemary needles to 2 cups of vodka an allow to sit for 2 weeks. 

Strain and use 1/2 dropperful every 2 hours for a couple of days. 

Then cut back to 2 times daily for about 2 weeks. 

Treats infections and colds.

Herb Of The Day: Spirulina, The Protein Powerhouse

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that grows on freshwater ponds. Respected in many cultures for centuries as an excellent source of nutrition, it found its way into the U.S. diet just a decade or two ago, and only in a limited manner. The health smoothie, Naked has spirulina in it's Green Machine smoothie. Its use was primarily restricted to those who shop in natural foods stores but now you can find it in this smoothie in all grocery and convenience stores.

Spirulina is 55 to 70 percent protein by weight. It is considered the greatest plant source of usable protein and is rich in B vitamins and gammalinolenic acid (GLA). It is second only to dried whole eggs as protein source. People often complain about the flavor but it has to be better than dried eggs!
And the Naked smoothie drink is absolutely delicious!

In health food stores you can find it in tablet and powder form. The tablets are cheaper and the taste is probably easier to consume. A recommended amount is 6 to 10 tablets or 2 tablespoons of the powder daily. If you use the powder, mix it into a blender drink or sprinkle it onto stir-fries and salads. Still I think the easiest and tastiest way is to purchase the Naked smoothie.

Here's what you will find inside the Naked smoothie drink, Green Machine:

Fruit:

• 5 3/4 apples
• 1 banana
• 1 kiwi
• 3/4 mango
• a hint of pineapple

Vegetable:

• 2600 mg spirulina
• 800 mg chlorella
• 200 mg brocolli
• 200 mg spinach
• 100 mg blue green algae
• 100 mg garlic
• 150 mg barely grass
• 150 mg wheat grass
• 100 mg ginger
• 100 mg parlsey

Wow!!

Home Remedy Tip Of The Day: Asthma

First of all let me be very clear when I say please seek immediate medical attention in severe cases.

Asthma occurs more frequently in children but no age is exempt. The wheezing is caused by a spasm of the bronchial tubes or swelling of the mucous membranes. Mental or physical fatigue, exposure of fumes or chemicals, inhaled allergens, foods, infections of the upper and lower respiratory tracts, and emotional situations can bring on attacks that can last from several hours to several days. Try several of these treatments to help control asthma attacks.


Breathing Aid at Bedtime
Take 1 tablespoon of sunflower or corn oil before retiring for the night. Helps you to breath easier during the night.

Asthma Treatment with Aloe Vera
Boil some of the aloe vera leaves in a pan of water and inhale the vapors. Put a towel over the head and pan to get the full effects of the vapors.

Asthma Treatment with Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is very good for treating asthma attacks, as it contains an ingredient that dilates the bronchial tubes.
Cook and mash cranberries. Place in a tightly closed glass container and refrigerate. When needed during an attack, add 3 teaspoons of the mashed cranberries to a cup of hot water. Sip while the water is hot.

Asthma Treatment with Horseradish
Add several teaspoons of freshly grated horseradish to 1 cup of milk. Simmer for 10 minutes and strain. Drink as necessary to obtain relief.

Asthma Treatment with Onions
Make fresh daily. Cut an onion into very thin slices and place in a bowl. Cover the onion slices with honey and let sit overnight. The next day, scrape the honey from the onion slices and take 1 teaspoon 3-4 times daily.

Cherry Treatment for Asthma
Add a handful of cherry stems to 1 pint of boiling water. Cover and steep until liquid is cool. Strain. Add 1 pint of honey and shake well. Take 1 tablespoon as needed for coughing.

Potato Treatment for Asthma
Boil several potatoes. Place in a basin and cover the head and basin with a towel to get the most from the steam.

Thyme Treatment for Asthma
Bring to a boil 2 cups of water to which you have added 1 tablespoon of thyme. Pour into a basin and cover head and basin with a towel to inhale the steam.

Herb Of The Day: Ganoderma Lucidum

I had a terrible migraine yesterday and I don't normally get them but when I do, they are pretty bad. So of course the herbalist in me is looking for natural ways to cure my migraine. I needed something fast and in fact could hardly stand and keep my eyes open. So my cousin suggested Ganoderma Lucidum Mycelium capsules.

Ganoderma Lucidum is the latin name for the reishi mushroom. And no this is not a mushroom that causes psychedelic side affects, it's consumed for health purposes and is known as the king of herbs in China. I call it the universal herb because it seems to tackle everything-all at once.

After a few hours of consuming the Mycelium, which is essentially the root of the mushroom, my migraine was gone. It takes longer, as with any herb, but it worked. Sometimes we need to have patience, and lay in a dark room with peace and quiet and just imagine the medicine working and believing that it is. When we combine this way of thinking with natural medicine, we will actually speed up recovery time. Our thoughts believe it or not, have a huge impact on our health. 

Here is a link to my website that explains in more detail the health benefits of Ganoderma.

http://www.naturallivingef.com/Ganoderma_Lucidum.html

Pet Remedies

In light of the recent photo I've seen on facebook, I feel it necessary to write a pet remedy blog to share some more natural ways of getting rid and repelling fleas and ticks. The chemicals that flea repellents use or that are put into flea collars are insecticides and not good for human or animal skin.

Cat Pillow Flea Repellent

Mix equal parts of chamomile and catnip. Add twice as much pennyroyal. Stuff a pillow with these herbs and they will love you.

Flea Powder with Pennyroyal

Mix together 2 tablespoons each of powdered wormwood and rosemary. Add 4 tablespoons of powdered pennyroyal, and 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper. Use as often as you would a commercial flea powder. Caution: Do not get this into the animal's eyes.

Flea Repellent

This is also good for treating mange. I have people who swear by this, however I've never used it. Simply apply WD-40 to the spine of the animal. It runs down the sides of the animal and keep fleas away.

Flea Wash

Add 1 cup fresh or dried rosemary to 4 cups boiling water. Cover and steep until cool. Strain. Wash the dog and rinse well. Pour the herbal liquid on the dog and work in well. Leave the rosemary tea on the dog and let it dry.

Sure Fire Way To Stop Fleas

Give your dog 1 tablet of 100 mg of thiamine daily. You can grind it add to cat food as well. It works.