As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it’s essential to take proactive steps to support our immune system during the Winter months. From incorporating immune-boosting foods and herbs into our diet to practicing stress management techniques, there are several natural ways to bolster our defenses and stay healthy all season long. Take a look at these effective strategies for winter immune support to help you navigate the colder months with confidence.
INCORPORATE IMMUNE BOOSTING FOODS
During Winter, it’s crucial to fuel our bodies with nutrient-dense foods that support immune function. Focus on incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are excellent sources of vitamin C, which plays a vital role in immune health. Additionally, include immune-boosting foods such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, and mushrooms in your meals to provide added support.
HARNESS THE POWER OF HERBAL REMEDIES
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support immune function and ward off illness. Consider incorporating immune-boosting herbs such as echinacea, elderberry, astragalus, and ginseng into your daily routine. These herbs contain potent compounds that help strengthen the body’s natural defenses and enhance overall immune function. Whether consumed as teas, tinctures, or supplements, incorporating these herbs into your winter wellness regimen can provide valuable support for your immune system.
STAY HYDRATED
Proper hydration is essential for supporting overall health and immune function, especially during the Winter months. Cold weather and indoor heating can lead to dehydration, which can compromise immune function and make us more susceptible to illness. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating beverages like herbal teas, warm lemon water, and broths into your routine. Hydrating foods such as soups, stews, and fruits with high water content can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
MANAGE STRESS
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of illness, making it essential to prioritise stress management during the Winter months. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness practices into your daily routine to help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as spending time outdoors, practicing hobbies, or connecting with loved ones, can also help alleviate stress and support immune health.
PRIORITISE YOUR IMMUNE HEALTH
As we navigate the Winter season, it’s important to prioritise our immune health and take proactive steps to support our body’s natural defenses. By incorporating immune-boosting foods and herbs into our diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress, we can strengthen our immune system and enhance our overall well-being. By adopting these natural strategies for winter immune support, we can stay healthy, happy, and resilient all season long.
Do these tips sound good to you!? Let me know what you would add.
For a few years I had my family on a gluten free diet because I was trying to heal an issue with one of my kids. It was just easier to put us all on it rather than cook different meals for different people. It helped a little, I will say that, but I’ve since discovered that gluten wasn’t actually the problem.
If you know me, you know that I am a big fan of traditional foods and how our ancestors prepared food, and as I began to dig deeper into the gluten debate I found that it was more likely the manipulation of the wheat grain and how it was being prepared that was causing the problem.
I believe now that, unless you have a serious medical condition that requires you to eliminate gluten from your diet, like celiac disease, or you have specific healing to do to restore the gut (especially the fingerlike protrusions lining the small intestine called villi), gluten and grains can be included in most people’s diet and offer vital nutrients.
I know there are other conditions like irritable bowl syndrome and allergies or sensitivities to wheat and gluten, but from my experience, these things go away once the real problem is addressed. One of the main things we need to look out for is where our grains are coming from, how are they farmed and harvested, are they sprayed with glyphosate and other pesticides, are they GMO, also how are they being stored… And then, we need to know how to prepare them properly with soaking, fermenting and sprouting.
DEBUNKING THE GLUTEN MYTH
Are you tired of hearing about the so-called evils of gluten? Let’s take a different perspective today. It’s time to explore the fascinating topic of how traditional societies prepared grains without any major health concerns!
DID YOU KNOW?
Weston A. Price, a renowned researcher, extensively studied indigenous cultures worldwide and found that grains, when prepared in certain ways, offered valuable nutrients and posed no harm to human health. Let’s dive into some of his fascinating findings, which can be found on westonaprice.org!
TRADITIONAL METHODS OF PREPARING GRAINS
By adopting traditional grain preparation techniques, we can unleash their true potential and potentially enjoy the benefits our ancestors cherished.
SOAKING
Traditional societies understood the importance of soaking grains before consumption. This practice helps break down phytic acid, a natural compound found in grains that can interfere with mineral absorption. By soaking grains in water or a natural acidic medium, enzymes are activated, mitigating potential digestive issues and boosting nutrient availability.
FERMENTING
Fermentation is an age-old technique used to enhance the digestibility and nutrient profile of grains. Traditional cultures commonly fermented grains for extended periods, triggering a biological process where natural bacteria feed on carbohydrates, making the grains easier to digest.
SPROUTING
Sprouted grains are incredibly nutritious as they undergo natural enzymatic changes. The sprouting process not only breaks down phytic acid but also increases the content of certain vitamins and minerals. Sprouted grains offer enhanced enzyme activity, making them more digestible and gentle on our bodies.
Curious to explore more about traditional grain preparation and nutrition?
Check out westonaprice.org, where you’ll find wealth of knowledge and resources on this fascinating topic! Remember, understanding the true nature of grains can help us make informed choices and regain trust in their place within a balanced, wholesome diet.
Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. This post is for informational purposes only.
Ear infections are the most common of all childhood infections and when your little one has one, you certainly know about it. It can be very distressing for your child. The usual route is to take bub to the doc and a round of antibiotics is prescribed.
In many cases, antibiotics are not necessary. A build up of fluid in the Eustachian tube can cause a lot of discomfort but it does not mean your child has an ear infection. Even redness of the ear drum does not guarantee an infection is present. Prescribing antibiotics ‘just in case’ is not only harmful but often sets the child up for recurring ear infections. This was my story with our eldest.
A BUILD UP OF PRESSURE
Children’s ear canals are horizontal in structure. They don’t slant down like they do for adults. This makes it more difficult for the body to drain lymph from the ears and nodes, down into the throat for removal. When the lymph fluid doesn’t drain as needed it moves back up into the Eustachian tubes which presses on the back of the ear drum, causing swelling and pain. This is why it is commonly mistaken for an infection. If left untreated, this can advance to an infection so taking measures to address this stage is important.
TEETHING AND EAR INFECTIONS
When babies are teething there is a lot going on in the gums and mouth.
Being close to the ears, there will naturally be some discomfort and stress in this area. Sometimes this will present as swelling, redness and irritation.
If your child is running a mild fever, you will have to be the judge whether you need to take action to stabilise body temperature or just make bub as comfortable as possible.
WHAT DOES AN INFECTION LOOK LIKE
A lot of heat! High body temperature, hot to touch on side of face and head, pus oozing from the ear.. Obviously we want to prevent this from happening by supporting the body early.
If your child is presenting with a true infection, they may need urgent medical support. It’s always best to act quickly with small children.
WHAT CAN YOU DO
The first step is to help the lymph drain from the body so it doesn’t build up in the ear canal.
Increase circulation to the area by wetting a washer with warm water and applying it over the ear and down the sides of the neck.
Gently massage behind the ear and down the sides of the neck with extremely light strokes. Don’t apply too much pressure here. The lighter strokes will help move the lymph more effectively than firmer strokes. Keep the movement in a downward motion and you are doing it right.
Use essential oils to support the immune system and promote lymph flow. I only use and recommend Young Living Essential Oils as I know their standards are extremely high and their farming and extraction processes ensure the healing potential of the oil remains intact.
LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL
Assists with congestion and helps support the immune system. Dilute 1-2 drops in a little coconut or olive oil and apply to the sides of the neck using the same light stroke massage technique as described above.
LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL
Contains properties that assist with inflammation. Apply directly to the bottom of the feet or at the site of discomfort. Dilute well for infants and small children.
COPAIBA ESSENTIAL OIL
This is THE oil for teething and discomfort. Blend with lemon and lavender or use on its own, diluted with carrier oil (coconut or olive). Apply in the same manner to help move the lymph out of the Eustachian tube. Some mummas will put a drop of Copaiba oil on their finger and rub onto swollen gums as needed.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO?
COLLOIDAL SILVER – A few drops of colloidal silver in the ear canal will help to kill off bacteria thereby reducing swelling and pain.
GARLIC OIL – Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic and olive oil helps with inflammation. Gently heat 2 tbl olive oil in a pan with 1 clove organic garlic, crushed. Keep on low heat for 20 minutes then strain. Cool to skin temperature then apply two drops into the ear. Does not store or keep so make fresh each day if needed.
MULLEIN DROPS – Make the above garlic oil, adding 2 tsp dried mullein flowers to the recipe.
BREASTFEED – If baby is still nursing, keep feeding on demand. This provides the necessary antibodies to help fight off an infection as well as providing comfort and circulation to the area.
IMPORTANT NOTES AND SAFETY
NEVER drop essential oils into the ear canal, no matter how pure. This will cause undue pain to your child and risk irritating the thin mucosal membrane that lines the ear canal.
Only ever use essential oils that are trustworthy. Message me for a referral!
What the world needs now is love, yes, more love.. but also.. more light.
Maybe they’re one and the same.
Most of us know how to express love whether that’s to the people we are closest to, or strangers on the street. But do you know how to give more light?
It starts with first recognising it within your self and then as if by magic, or more likely by divine grace, your light inspires someone else to shine too.
THINGS HAVE CHANGED
Have you noticed a change in the energy of people these days?
Truly, the last few years have knocked us all for a six.
Even for those who are usually pretty good at keeping their vibe high. It’s been hard hearing all the stories of people who have been hurt and lost so much. But there’s been a lot of growth too. A lot of reaching out and community spirit resurfacing. And that’s a good thing!
So what can you do to help boost your own mood?
LET’S TALK ESSENTIAL OILS
I know there are a lot of things you can do, and I talk more about that here but this post is supposed to be about how to boost your mood with essential oils, so that’s what we’ll talk about today.
First of all, essential oils by their very nature have a profound effect on our mental and emotional health.
Simply by inhaling them you immediately activate the limbic part of the brain which is where we process emotions and house memories.
You can’t really go wrong with choosing an essential oil to try, however there are some that are especially helpful to boost the mood.
THE POWER OF CITRUS ESSENTIAL OILS
Any of the citrus oils, hands down, will do the job.
Lemon, orange, bergamot, lime etc. They’re just so vibrant, smell so fresh and are super high in d-limonene. You can’t help but smile when you breathe these babies in.
OTHER MOOD BOOSTERS
Clary Sage (floral)
Lavender (floral)
Frankincense (balsamic/resin)
Geranium (floral)
Ylang Ylang (floral)
Eucalyptus (wood)
Ginger (spice)
Rosemary (herb)
All of these oils will help to boost the mood either by awakening the senses, reducing stress or both!
You don’t need to use all of them all at once, just intuitively choose one or two to work with and switch it up from time to time. Inhale straight from the bottle, diffuse or dilute and apply topically as needed.
NEW TO OILS?
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same top notch oils that I use.
Massage is one of those things that not everyone enjoys but everyone needs!
There are so many health benefits that I could write numerous posts on it, but for now, I’ll just list a few..
reduces stress and anxiety
reduces tension in the body
relaxes tight muscles
improves digestive function
lowers cortisol
relaxes nervous system
lowers heart rate and blood pressure
improves blood circulation
improves function of lymphatic system
improves function of immune system
improves sleep
increases energy
improves alertness
improves flexibility
I could literally go on and on and if you are someone who has experienced a wonderful massage, you will know how it feels to float off the table when it’s done.
The effects of a good massage can last for weeks, especially if taken regularly.
AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
Have you ever added essential oils to your treatment?
Aromatherapy massage has its own unique sequence, primarily to improve lymph flow and relax the body.
By adding essential oils to any massage session you will not only be gaining the benefits of the massage but also of the specific oils that are chosen.
Your therapist may already have a selection of oils to choose from, however they also may allow you to bring your own.
Here are my favourite massage blend recipes for relaxation..
Add essential oils to a 50mL glass amber dropper bottle, then top up with your chosen carrier oil.
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.
Have you ever been diligent with your water intake yet still feel a lack of hydration? There might be other factors working against you.
One of those factors could be stress.
When you experience stress, your adrenal glands produce extra cortisol, the stress hormone, and under chronic stress, your adrenal glands can become exhausted, resulting in lower electrolyte levels.
Low electrolyte levels means your body is not efficiently maintaining and regulating the correct amount of fluid in the body which leads to dehydration.
Dehydration zaps your brain’s energy, impedes serotonin production, increases stress in the body and can even elevate the recurrence of anxiety and panic attacks.
So you can see, it’s a vicious cycle of dehydration causing stress and stress causing dehydration.
SUPPORT THE KIDNEYS
Some studies have shown that frequent dehydration, even if it’s mild, may lead to permanent kidney damage. So the sooner we make hydration and support of the kidneys a priority, the better.
Here are some of the ways we can support them..
Drink more water – aim for light yellow/colourless urine
Keep active and fit
Avoid processed meats and high sodium foods
Avoid common non-prescription pills like ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDs)
Reduce stress and maintain healthy blood pressure
Increase intake of dark leafy greens, apples and berries
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Detox from heavy metals
Eat probiotic rich foods and supplement
Boost immune system
HERBS FOR ADRENAL SUPPORT
Ashwagandha – helps regulate stress, improves sleep and energy. Schisandra – tones the kidneys RhodiolaRosea- supports healthy cortisol levels HolyBasil – maintains equilibrium with the stress system in the body Eleuthero – increases the ability to withstand stress
Vytalyte Drops – ionic trace minerals and salts to improve electrolyte balance
Essential Oils – bergamot, black spruce, cardamom, cedarwood, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, peppermint, pine, rosemary and vetiver.
Dilute your favourite combo and apply topically to the kidney/adrenal area.
For an all natural and healthy electrolyte drink that you can make from home and have on hand when you need some extra hydration.. check out this post:
Electrolytes are minerals that are needed by the body to perform basic life function processes. Two of these functions in particular is to maintain electrical neutrality in the cells and to generate and conduct action potentials in the nerves and muscles.
ELECTROLYTE IMBALANCE
When electrolyte levels in the blood become too high or too low, it can cause an imbalance, which in turn can lead to issues such as:
irregular heartbeat
muscle weakness or spasms
bone disorders
convulsions and/or seizures
confusion
numbness
excessive tiredness
nervous system disorders
change in blood pressure
CAUSES OF IMBALANCE
poor diet and severe dehydration
prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea
loss of electrolytes and hydration after exercise
acidosis/alkalosis (imbalance of blood pH)
diuretics and other drugs
congestive heart failure
cancer treatment
ELECTROLYTE DRINKS
Most electrolyte drinks that you will find on supermarket shelves (and even some from healthy places like sports nutrition stores) contain ingredients that are far from being beneficial to the body. High levels of sugar, sodium, food dyes, chemical sweeteners and other additives found in these drinks contribute to health problems. Many popular electrolyte drinks, when consumed regularly, have the potential to lead to diabetes, kidney damage, tooth enamel erosion and weight gain.
Clearly it’s best to avoid this ‘health’ drink and stick to a natural source of rehydration of electrolytes.
HOMEMADE AND HEALTHY ELECTROLYTE DRINK RECIPE
1/2 cup of fresh orange juice
1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
2 cups of raw coconut water
2 tbl organic raw honey or organic maple syrup
2 pinches of Himalayan salt
METHOD
Put all ingredients in a blender and blend well.
Bottle in glass and refrigerate.
Best served on ice.
For a nice change, substitute the orange juice for 1/4 cup of lime juice!
Ever been stuck in a funk that you just can’t seem to shift?
Try one of these 10 restorative and uplifting essential oils to rebalance and improve the mood and get you moving in the right direction.
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint essential oil has a sharp, stimulating aroma that can feel like an energetic slap in the face. Breathe it in to increase vitality and motivation, especially if you are feeling disconnected with your surroundings and what you’re doing in this life. Peppermint helps us to refocus on who we are and what we want to achieve. It brings wisdom, alertness and spiritual awareness.
BASIL
Basil essential oil has a warm, peppery, aniseed-like aroma that is stimulating to the mind and emotions. Breathe it in to encourage positivity and creativity and help you to tap in to your true desires and purpose. Basil is a great oil to use when you need to make big decisions as it ‘switches’ on the mind while cleansing any lingering thoughts away that no longer serve you.
ORANGE
Orange essential oil has a fruity, fresh aroma that imbues the essence of creativity and childhood. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and create a space of lightheartedness and regeneration of spirit. Orange encourages feelings of positivity, joy and magnificence, while allowing the body and mind to let go of past experiences that may be keeping you feeling stuck.
BAY LAUREL
Bay laurel essential oil has a spicy, sweet, fresh fragrance that has traditionally been used as a symbol of victory. Breathe it in to encourage confidence and fortitude when planning and reaching for your goals. It’s also a useful oil for those times when the way ahead seems uncertain or when you need a little extra courage. Bay Laurel provides inspiration, protection and a sense of direction.
YLANG YLANG
Ylang Ylang essential oil has an intensely sweet, floral aroma that increases self-esteem and confidence. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and to awaken a feeling of enthusiasm for life. Ylang ylang helps you to forgive yourself and others and has the ability to dissipate anger. It’s calming, yet joyful, playful energy reminds you of all the beauty and wonder in the world and that you equally are a part of it.
MELISSA
Melissa essential oil has a light, fresh and somewhat citrus aroma that brings understanding and a feeling of strength. It’s a useful oil when dealing with negative and repetitive emotions as it helps us to break through these limitations and rise above what we once thought we couldn’t. Melissa brings a sense of peace and protection as you take steps forward to improve your life.
LEMONGRASS
Lemongrass essential oil has a grassy, lemony, citrus aroma that not only cleanses the physical body but also the spiritual. Use this oil to help clear negative experiences such as shame, regret and unforgiveness to encourage feelings of positivity, upliftment and progression. Lemongrass helps us to become clear with our thoughts and reminds us that all outcomes are based on the choices we make.
CARDAMOM
Cardamom essential oil has a spicy, green and sweet aroma that enlivens the spirit and increases feelings of abundance and prosperity. It can be used to clear the senses, stimulate creativity and help motivate you to reach for your heart’s desire. Cardamom helps us to connect to our higher purpose, especially during times of overwhelm and stress and can improve feelings of gratitude.
CISTUS
Cistus essential oil has a musky, sweet balsamic aroma that has traditionally been known to soothe the heart. It is a useful choice when feeling disconnected from your spirituality and life purpose. Cistus can be used to help shift from a place of fear, to a place of unconditional love and acceptance. Use it during times of loneliness, isolation and grief or when you just need some more harmony and balance in your life.
FRANKINCENSE
Frankincense essential oil has a warm, sweet and spicy, balsamic aroma that has been traditionally used in spiritual practice for thousands of years. Breathe it in to help you stay connected to spirit and help induce feelings of emotional stability and a sense of unity. Frankincense gives courage in hard times as it calms the emotions and helps you to feel grounded and secure. The ultimate comforter and protector.
So that’s my Top 10 essential oils to help you out of a funk.
Which one have you tried or which one would you like to add to your emotional home wellness kit?
Does the idea of growing your own medicine seem exciting to you?
Here are 10 plants that you can easily grow in your garden that have medicinal benefits.
COMFREY
Comfrey prefers moist soil in a sunny or partially shaded site. The leaves and flowering tops are gathered in Summer and the roots in Autumn. Wear gloves!
Due to comfrey’s rapid healing potential, use on clean wounds only.
useful in First Aid
known as ‘knitbone’
useful for sprains, strains, bruises, aches and pains, arthritis and ulcers
speeds up the healing of bones and tissues
useful expectorant
reduces gastrointestinal and bronchial inflammation
applied topically as a poultice, cream or macerated oil
Avoid during pregnancy. Not to be taken internally.
ECHINACEA (coneflowers)
Echinacea prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. The leaves can be gathered anytime during the growing season and the roots can be dug out in Autumn after flowering.
Echinacea is best taken as a tincture and combines well with elderberry for respiratory conditions.
Dilute and use as a lotion for wounds and bites.
natural antibiotic
immune booster
shortens the duration of colds and flu
useful for coughs, colds, earache, viral infections and sore throats
joint and cartilage healer
spider and snake bites
insect sting
may help prevent severe infection
Avoid high doses which may occasionally cause nausea and dizziness.
CHAMOMILE
Both German and Roman Chamomile prefer a sunny position in the garden with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The flowers are gathered in Summer.
Chamomile is best known as a calming tea but when cooled can also act as a soothing lotion to relieve hot, irritated or inflamed skin.
helps to relieve eczema, skin rashes, sunburn and hives
calms digestive system and feelings of nausea
relieves indigestion and gastrointestinal spasms
helps with feelings of nervousness
reduces stress and insomnia
may relieve menstrual cramps due to antispasmodic nature
reduces itchiness
reduces fever
soothes the nerves
Chamomile may cause contact dermatitis. Avoid if allergic to the Compositae family.
CRAMP BARK
Cramp bark prefers to grow in moist, well drained soil in sun or in dappled shade. Collect the inner bark in Spring and Summer while the plant is in flower.
It’s no surprises how this amazing plant can help you. Just look at the name!
Best used as a tincture.
relaxes the muscles
antispasmodic
useful for menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding
reduces backache and muscular spasms
Avoid during pregnancy.
CAYENNE
Cayenne (or chile pepper) loves to grow in pots with loads of good quality compost. Gather in Summer when the fruit is ripe and dry in the shade.
Cayenne is most often used in cooking but has traditionally been used as a warming remedy. Use the powder or fresh fruit (including the seeds) to make a macerated oil or tincture.
Can be used in warm water too.
stimulates the circulatory system
regulates blood flow
helps to maintain healthy blood pressure
strengthens the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves
may arrest internal and external bleeding
clears phlegm from the lungs
reduces sinus congestion
Excessive use of cayenne pepper can lead to gastric irritation. Avoid touching the eyes when handling.
YARROW
Yarrow prefers full sun and well drained soil. Flowers can be gathered as soon as they appear and the leaves and other aerial parts in Summer.
Yarrow was traditionally used to treat wounds however it is also beneficial to both the urinary and respiratory systems.
combine with lime blossoms and hawthorn for healthy blood pressure
may assist with arteriosclerosis
soaked cotton balls in tincture for nosebleed
assists with fever, promotes sweating
boosts immunity
tones blood vessels
stimulates digestion
urinary antiseptic
assists with cystitis
wound healing
reduces menstrual cramps
reduces colds and flu
yarrow root for dental pain
Avoid in pregnancy.
GRINDELIA (gumweed)
Grindelia prefers light to medium sandy soil and full sun. Collect the aerial parts as soon as the flower buds open and dry in the sun.
Traditionally Grindelia was used to treat dermatitis caused by poison ivy.
assists with asthmatic and bronchial conditions
relaxes smooth muscles and heart muscles
helps to reduce catarrh and upper respiratory congestion
useful in treating cystitis and bladder infections
may help to reduce blood pressure
may increase heart rate to assist with healing
useful expectorant
antispasmodic
antimicrobial
Grindelia is not recommended for those with heart or kidney conditions.
CALENDULA (marigold)
Calendula prefers to grow in well drained soil in full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Collect the flowers in Summer and take care when drying to prevent discolouration.
Calendula is a popular plant that is prized for its versatility. Best used as an infusion, tincture, cream or macerated oil.
stimulates healing and is soothing to the skin
useful for abrasions, rashes, eczema, ulcers and wounds
antiseptic, great for first aid
reduces inflammation on the skin
may be useful for wound healing and external bleeding
helpful when used on bruises and strains
useful cleansing agent and healing cream
apply to minor burns and scalds
use the macerated oil to prevent stretch marks
helps regulate healthy menstrual flow
helpful for digestive conditions like gastric and duodenal ulcers
Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigold, or plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.
MALLOW (common mallow)
Mallow loves well drained soil and prefers full sun, however it will tolerate dappled shade as well. Collect the flowers and leaves in Summer.
The entire plant is edible and is commonly used as a compress, tincture or infusion.
useful for bladder infections
helps to recover from gastritis and stomach ulcers
helps to treat bronchial inflammation, laryngitis and pharyngitis
aids respiratory health and reduces catarrh
used topically against abscesses, boils and minor burns
soothing to the throat due to mucilage content
soothing to wounds, rashes and insect bites
may act as a gentle laxative
relieves anxiety and nervousness
Mallow is a safe, edible plant when harvested in proper locations and not contaminated. You might even find it in your own backyard!
PLANTAIN
Plaintain enjoys moist, poor to moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade and can often be found growing in hedges, pavement cracks and grassy areas. Gather the leaves in Summer from unpolluted areas.
Plantain is a common weed that is traditionally used in first aid. Use topically in the form of a poultice or ingest as a syrup, infusion, tincture or juice!
natural antihistamine action
useful for venomous bites and stings
soothes irritation from rashes
combine with calendula to treat cuts and abrasions
treats bladder infections
reduces excess fluid in the body
useful for coughs and mild bronchitis
naturally astringent and antiseptic
supports tissue regeneration
helps in cases of diarrhoea and haemorrhoids
All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.
