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Wellness
- "99 Home Remedies Article"
Alternative Therapies
Article - "99 Home Remedies"
by Laurie Vukovic
Natural Health Magazine (May/June 1997)
From the time I was a child, I've been
fascinated with the idea that my body could heal itself. The cuts and scrapes
of childhood gave me the opportunity to witness my body's healing wisdom in
action. Even as a child, I was drawn to simple, natural remedies that
supported my body's innate healing process.
I was fortunate in that my family avoided
unnecessary pharmaceutical drugs in favor of good old fashioned home remedies.
Instead of taking antibiotics and other drugs to treat everyday ailments, we
relied on salt-water gargles to ease sore throats, ginger ale to settle upset
stomachs, and mentholated chest rubs to relieve congestion. I liked these
natural remedies. Not only did they bring relief from whatever was ailing me,
but they offered a homey comfort that no pill could ever provide.
As the years have passed, I've welcomed every
opportunity to practice the art of natural healing through home remedies, and
teaching and writing about natural remedies has become my life's work. I've
discovered that just about everyone has at least one home remedy that they
turn to for treating common ailments. In the five years that I've been writing
the Home Remedies column for NATURAL HEALTH I've been fortunate to receive
mail from readers all over the world who have shared their favorite home
remedies with me. And in turn, I've shared many of these with you. This is the
essence of healing for me listening to our bodies, working in harmony with
nature, discovering what works, and passing that knowledge along. The
following is a compilation of most of the remedies that have been submitted
over the past five years.
Choose the first letter of the therapy you are interested in:
A B C D E
F G H I J
K L M N O P
Q R S T U V
W X Y Z 1. Acne
Red clover, burdock root, and dandelion root are used by many herbalists
to treat blemished skin. Because they stimulate the eliminative functions of
the liver, kidneys, and intestines, they are called "blood
cleansers." Take one capsule each of red clover, burdock root, and
dandelion root in the morning and again in the evening.
2. Allergies
Colette Gardiner, an herbalist in Eugene, Oregon, relieves allergy symptoms
with a combination of dried mullein leaf and nettle. Mullein has traditionally
been used as a tonic to soothe the respiratory tract and promote the expulsion
of mucus from the lungs. Nettle has astringent properties and helps to dry
excessive mucus. Gardiner recommends drinking one quart of mullein-nettle tea
daily throughout allergy season. Bring one quart of water to a boil, turn off
the heat, and add three tablespoons of mullein leaf and three tablespoons of
nettle. Cover, and let steep for at least thirty minutes, or preferably,
overnight.
3. Athlete's foot
Calendula flowers have antifungal properties and make an effective footbath
for treating athlete's foot. Add one-half cup calendula to one quart boiling
water, cover, remove from heat, and steep until cool. Strain and pour into
plastic basin. Add one quart hot water, and soak feet twice a day for fifteen
minutes. Dry feet and dust with a mixture of equal parts goldenseal powder and
cosmetic clay.
4. Black Eye
"Ice is the first thing to apply to any injury," says Paul
Reilly, N.D., who practices in Tacoma, Washington. Not only does ice provide
immediate pain relief, it also reduces swelling and arrests bleeding by
constricting ~d blood vessels. Apply an ice pack to the eye for ten minutes,
take a five-minute break, and reapply for ten minutes. If the area is swollen,
apply the cold pack for ten minutes every hour or so throughout the day. After
the first one or two days, Reilly suggests taking tablets of bromelain to
relieve fluid buildup and residual swelling. Bromelain has anti-inflammatory
and pain-relieving properties. Take 500 mg two to three times a day on an
empty stomach (one hour before or two hours after eating).
5. Bleeding gums
After brushing, Dick Thom, D.D.S., N.D., of Beaverton, Oregon suggests rinsing
the mouth with a mixture of one cup of warm water and one-half teaspoon of sea
salt, which has a mild antimicrobial effect. Follow with a mouthwash of myrrh
and goldenseal, made by adding one dropperful of each tincture to one cup of
water. Myrrh and goldenseal both have powerful antimicrobial and astringent
properties, so they will help to kill bacteria and strengthen the gum tissue.
6. Blisters
When you get a blister, peel a thin slice from a leaf of an aloe vera plant,
place the inner part of the leaf directly on the blister, and cover with an
adhesive bandage. The aloe vera soothes and protects the blister and helps it
to heal faster. "An aloe vera leaf-or aloe vera gel-is a good treatment
for blisters because it is mildly astringent and promotes tissue
healing," says Debra Nuzzi St. Claire, M.H., and herbalist in Boulder,
Colorado. Change the poultice every six to eight hours.
7. Body odor
When the liver is overburdened by processed foods, fats, and chemicals, more
toxins are eliminated through the skin, which increases body odor. "Zinc
may reduce body odor by helping the liver break down toxins more
effectively," says Molly Linton, N.D., who practices in Seattle,
Washington. Take 30 mg of zinc daily.
8. Boils
Use hot compresses to help draw the boil to a head. Soak a washcloth in hot
water, and place it on the affected area; cover the washcloth with a dry towel
to retain the heat. When it cools, replace the washcloth; repeat for fifteen
minutes, three times a day. Following the hot compresses, apply tea tree oil,
which has antibacterial properties.
9. Brittle nails
For brittle nails and rough cuticles, massage castor oil into cuticles and
nails every evening. After three months of this treatment, nails will be
stronger, and cuticles smoother. "Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and
helps nourish healthy cuticles and nails," says aesthetician Stephanie
Tourles.
10. Bruises
To reduce the swelling and pain of a bruise, apply ice to the injured area as
soon as possible. Keep the ice on for fifteen minutes, then allow a
fifteen-minute break. Repeat several times. The next day, apply a menthol
ointment. This increases circulation, which speeds healing and reduces
discoloration. Rub the ointment gently onto the affected area several times a
day until the bruise begins to clear.
11. Burns
Apply cool, wet tea bags until the burning sensation subsides. If the burn is
widespread, as in a sunburn, make a quart of strong black tea and add it to a
bathtub of lukewarm water. After a fifteen-minute soak, smooth on a light
moisturizer containing vitamin E or aloe vera.
12. Canker sores: rinse
Dissolve one tablespoon sea salt in a half cup of warm water, and use as a
mouthwash several times a day.
13. Canker sores: tincture
The best remedy for canker sores is myrrh tincture. Apply the liquid to the
sores with a clean cotton swab several times throughout the day. Not only does
myrrh relieve the pain, but it helps the sores heal faster, too.
14. Carpal tunnel
When the nerves that link the wrist to the hand are pinched in the carpal
tunnel (the narrow passageway they pass through), symptoms of pain, tingling,
and numbness occur. Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually brought on by
repetitive, low intensity activities such as typing or carpentry. Two gentle
wrist exercises can help by opening up the passageway and taking pressure off
the nerves. Bend your elbows, bring your hands up into the air, and rotate
your wrists in circles for one minute. Also clench your fists gently, and then
spread your fingers wide apart ten times. It's most helpful to repeat these
exercises frequently throughout the day.
15. Chicken pox
Rosemary Gladstar, an herbalist in East Barre, Vermont, and author of Herbal
Healing for Women (Simon and Schuster, 1993), recommends giving children with
chicken pox a relaxing nervine tea such as lemon balm or chamomile. To soothe
the skin, Gladstar recommends an oatmeal bath made by grinding dry rolled oats
into a fine powder in a blender. Add one to two cups of these oats to a
bathtub of lukewarm water, and allow the child to soak for fifteen minutes.
Don't rinse off the oatmeal, but simply pat the skin dry.
16. Chilblains
"Chilblains, itchy, painful patches on hands or feet, are an indication
that you need to improve your peripheral circulation," says Janet Beaty,
N.D. who practices in Concord, Massachusetts. She recommends taking capsules
of powdered cayenne during the winter months to stimulate circulation. Begin
by taking one capsule a day, and after a few days, increase to two capsules a
day.
17. Chills
Feeling chilly? Run down? On the verge of a cold? Try a steam inhalation by
adding two drops each of tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint oil to a bowl of
steaming hot water. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and breathe in
the vapors for ten minutes, being careful not to burn yourself with the steam.
Michael Scholes, an aromatherapist in Los Angeles, California, says, "Tea
tree oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties, and peppermint and
eucalyptus help remove mucous congestion."
18. Colds: homeopathic
"Aconite is sometimes called homeopathic vitamin C because it is useful
at the first stages of many common infections including colds and flus,"
says Dana Ullman, M.P.H., president of Homeopathic Educational Services in
Berkeley, California, and author of The Consumer's Guide to Homeopathy (Tarcher/
Putnam, 1995). Follow instructions on package.
19. Colds: supplements
For any cold, flu , or infection, Christiane Northrup, M.D., the author of
Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom (Bantam Books, 1994) recommends high doses of
ascorbic acid (vitamin C). She suggests 2,000-10,000 mg daily, divided into
several doses throughout the day. "The sicker you are, the more you can
tolerate," says Northrup. She recommends taking vitamin C until you reach
bowel tolerance--you'll get diarrhea when your body is saturated with the
vitamin. Back off a bit on the amount you're taking until your stools return
to normal.
20. Colds: tincture
Talking echinacea at the first sign of a sniffle or scratchy throat often
bolsters the immune system sufficiently to help the body overcome the virus.
Take two dropperfuls, followed by an additional dropperful every hour or two
for several hours or until the symptoms subside.
21. Colds: tea
Andrew Weil, M.D., author of Spontaneous Healing (Knopf, 1995), makes a potent
ginger-garlic tea to fight off colds and the flu. Simmer one teaspoon of
grated ginger in one cup of water in a covered pot for five minutes. Strain;
add one clove crushed garlic, one tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and
one-quarter teaspoon cayenne powder. Sweeten with honey if desired.
22. Colds: capsules
Dr. Andrew Weil also uses capsules of astragalus, a powerful Chinese herb
known to improve immune functioning, to help the body overcome the flu. He
suggests taking two capsules of astragalus three times a day for the duration
of the illness.
23. Colds: soup
"Soup is the great healer and is always my first choice when I'm feeling
under the weather," says Annemarie Colbin, founder of the Natural Gourmet
Cookery School in New York and author of Food and Healing (Ballantine, 1986).
She makes a garlic miso soup by simmering a head of peeled garlic in one quart
of vegetable stock for ten minutes. Blend the garlic cloves with one cup of
the stock and one tablespoon of miso, return to the pot, and season to taste
with additional miso if desired. "If you should need to take antibiotics,
eat this soup and take acidophilus to restore the balance of friendly
intestinal bacteria," she recommends.
24. Colic
Colic, Characterized by gas pains, flatulence, and irritability, typically
occurs between the ages of one and four months. "Peppermint tea is an
excellent colic remedy," says Silena Heron, a naturopathic physician who
practices family medicine in Sedona, California. Colic is caused by gas
trapped in the digestive tract, explains Heron, and the volatile oils
contained in peppermint provide relief by promoting digestion and helping to
expel the gas.
25. Constipation
Insufficient dietary fiber and fluids and a lack of exercise are the primary
causes of most constipation. Linda Herrick, a naturopathic physician in
Ashland, Oregon, advocates a gentle and effective approach for restoring
proper bowel function. Drinking a glass of warm water mixed with the juice of
half a lemon first thing in the morning is often enough to stimulate
peristalsis. For more stubborn cases of constipation, Herrick recommends
adding one tablespoon of liquid bentonite clay or one teaspoon of psyllium
powder (or both, if desired) to the warm lemon water. Be sure to drink plenty
of fluids throughout the day when using these intestinal bulking agents.
26. Coughs: syrup
Thyme’s primary fragrant oil, thymol, is a powerful antiseptic and
antispasmodic useful for treating coughs. To make a thyme-honey cough syrup,
place three tablespoons of dried thyme leaves (not powdered thyme) into a
quart glass jar. Add one pint of boiling water, and close the lid. Let steep
until cool. Strain and add one cup of honey. Stir well. This mixture,
refrigerated, will keep for several months. Take one teaspoon every hour to
relieve a cough.
27. Coughs: plaster
If you suffer from a deep, spasmodic cough caused by a cold, try a mustard
plaster. Mix together one tablespoon of powdered mustard, four tablespoons of
flour, and enough hot water to make a thin paste. Spread the paste onto a thin
cotton or linen tea towel, and fold the towel to make a flat pack, with the
mustard paste on the inside of the pack. (Mustard stains, so use an old
towel.) Place the pack directly on the chest, and cover with a thick towel.
This second towel should cover the entire chest and the pack. Allow the
plaster to remain in place for approximately twenty minutes. Lift a corner of
the plaster every few minutes to be certain that the mustard is not burning
the skin. A feeling of warmth and a healthy pink color indicate that the
plaster is working, but if an uncomfortable burning sensation, redness, or
irritation develops, remove the plaster.
28. Coughs: steam
To relieve a cough or congestion, Dr. Andrew Weil uses a steam inhalation of
sage and eucalyptus. Simmer a small handful each of sage and eucalyptus in one
and a half quarts of water in a covered pot for five minutes. Let sit for five
minutes, remove the lid, and then make a towel tent over the pot, and inhale
the steam for ten to fifteen minutes.
29. Coughs
To make your own cough syrup, finely chop an onion, cover it with honey, and
warm it in a covered pot over low heat for forty minutes. Take this mixture by
the spoonful as often as needed.
"This is a good old fashioned cold remedy made from ingredients almost
everyone has in the kitchen," says Jill Stansbury, N.D. According to
Stansbury, who teaches botanical medicine at the National College of
Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, onions are high in resins that have
an expectorant and antimicrobial properties. In addition, the warming effect
of onions increases blood flow to the chest and throat.
30. Cuts and burns
Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar keeps in her medicine chest an all-purpose salve
made from soothing comfrey, calendula, and St. John's Wort. Only apply salves
to minor burns and superficial cuts.
31. Cuts: plant leaf
For fast wound healing, pluck a plantain leaf that is big enough to cover the
wound, wash the leaf in cold water, and apply a small amount of olive oil or
vitamin E to the back to keep it moist. Place the front of the leaf on the
clean wound, and put a Band-Aid or piece of surgical adhesive tape over the
leaf to hold it in place. Replace every day until the wound has healed. Both
narrow-leafed plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) and common plantain (Plantago
major L.) are used throughout the world in folk medicine. Studies confirm that
plantain contains substances that are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, and
that help stop bleeding.
32. Cuts: ointment
The next time you need an antibacterial ointment for a cut or wound, apply
honey. Honey contains a natural antibiotic that has proved effective against
organisms that cause infections. Unprocessed honey (unheated and unfiltered)
has been found to be the most effective type for killing a wide range of
germs.
33. Cystitis
Increased frequency of urination and pain or burning while urinating are the
primary warning signs of cystitis. If you notice these symptoms, try drinking
parsley tea. Add one bunch of parsley (preferably organic) to two quarts of
filtered water, bring the water to a boil in a covered pot, turn off heat, and
let steep until cools. Strain out the parsley, and drink the tea over a period
of about three hours. Parsley is a natural diuretic and works by helping to
flush out the bladder and the microorganisms that cause the infection.
34. Dandruff
To make an herbal hair rinse that relieves a dry, itchy scalp, brew a
strong tea of equal parts of dried nettles, rosemary, comfrey, and witch hazel
leaves. The herbal combination is antiseptic, astringent, and soothing. Add
one-half ounce (about one handful) of the combined herbs to two cups of water.
Bring to a boil in a covered pot. Immediately remove it from the heat, and let
it sit overnight. After shampooing and rinsing your hair with plain water,
apply the herbal tea to your scalp as a final rinse.
35. Diaper rash
To heal the raw skin caused by diaper rash, apply a heavy coating of liquid
lecithin to the affected areas. In two to three days the rash is usually gone.
This remedy works on an irritant type of diaper rash (rather than that caused
by yeast), says Lori Beth Stargrove, N.D., who practices family medicine in
Beaverton, Oregon. An oily emollient such as lecithin creates a barrier that
protects the baby's tender skin. "Nonpetroleum-based salves also provide
an effective barrier, and if they contain herbs such as calendula or comfrey,
they will help the skin to heal," says Stargrove.
36. Diarrhea
To stop an attack of diarrhea, shred a peeled apple onto a plate. Let the
apple turn brown (this takes about twenty minutes)then eat it. The apple must
be brown for it to have the desired effect.
37. Dishpan hands
Herbalist Jeanne Rose, the author of Jeanne Rose's Herbal Body Book (Perigee
Books, 1992), offers this treatment for dry dishpan hands: Mix together two
tablespoons of finely ground almonds (grind them in c blender or coffee
grinder), one tablespoon of honey, and enough buttermilk to make a thick
paste. Apply the mixture to the hands before going to bed, and cover them with
a pair o cotton gloves, or a pair of leather gloves with the lining ripped
out. "Leather gloves keep the ( paste moist all night and won't leak as
cotton gloves tend to do," says Rose.
38. Dry Skin
"Water is what keeps the skin moist and youthful," says Joni
Loughran, a skin-care specialist in Petaluma, California. According to
Loughran, a warm bath or shower is an excellent way of hydrating the surface
layer of the skin. She recommends applying oil or a moisturizer immediately
afterwards (preferably while the skin is still damp) to create protective
barrier that will help to prevent the evaporation of moisture from the skin.
39. Ear infections
Garlic oil is an effective remedy for middle ear infections. Garlic has
natural antibiotic properties, and the warm oil helps to relieve the pain. To
make garlic oil, chop one or two bulbs of fresh garlic. Place the garlic in a
double boiler, and cover with an inch of olive oil. Cover the pot, and warm
the oil gently over low heat for one hour. Strain the oil through a piece of
cheesecloth, and store it in a covered glass jar in the refrigerator. To use
the garlic oil, place a small amount in a metal spoon and heat it gently over
a flame until warm. Suction the oil up into an ear dropper, place a couple of
drops into each ear canal, and plug the canal with a soft cotton ball. Repeat
this every hour or as needed. Do not use garlic oil to treat an external ear
infection or if you suspect a punctured eardrum.
40. Fatigue
''Siberian ginseng is an excellent adaptogenic herb," says James
Green, director of the California School of Herbal Studies in Forestville,
California. An adaptogen is an herb that helps the body adapt more easily to
both physical and emotional stressors. Green cautions against relying solely
on herbs to mitigate the harmful effects of stress, however. "If you're
feeling fatigued, your body is trying to tell you something. You need to
listen and try to change whatever is causing the stress," says Green.
Although some people notice the beneficial effects of ginseng immediately, it
can take up to three months to experience significant results. Take one
dropperful of extract or two capsules two to three times daily. Siberian
ginseng is safe to take indefinitely.
41. Fevers: bath
Mary Bove, N.D., who practices in Brattleboro, Vermont says a fever is
generally a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. To promote
sweating, Bove recommends adding yarrow tea to a tepid bath. Yarrow increases
circulation to the surface of the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Make a strong yarrow tea by pouring sixteen ounces of boiling water over three
tablespoons of dried yarrow flowers and steeping for twenty minutes. Strain
and add the tea to a tubful of tepid water. For a sponge bath, dilute the tea
with an additional sixteen Ounces of tepid water. If a child has a fever of
over 103 degrees, or if a fever persists for more than three days, consult a
health practitioner.
42. Fevers: tea
"I include boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) in all of my fever-relieving
recipes," says naturopath Silena Heron. "Boneset promotes sweating,
which helps the body rid itself of toxins and speeds up healing from a cold or
flu virus." Although boneset can effectively be used alone, Heron often
combines it with equal parts of yarrow, elder flower, and lemon balm or
peppermint. For a complete sweat-promoting, flu-relieving treatment, she
recommends drinking a cup of boneset tea, getting into a hot bath, and
drinking another cup of the tea while in the bath. Stay in the bath for
fifteen minutes, then towel dry, put on cotton pajamas, and get into bed under
plenty of covers, she says.
43. Flat feet
Flat feet often cause feet to be sore and legs to ache. Two simple foot
exercises help relieve the soreness and aching. Twice a day, stand barefoot
and rock back and forth from heels to toes for several minutes. Also spend a
few minutes each day picking up marbles with your toes.
44. Fluid retention
Many women suffer from fluid retention prior to menstruation. Symptoms include
tender breasts, swollen fingers and ankles, abdominal bloating, and
irritability. According to David Hoffmann, author of The New Holistic Herbal
(Element Books, 1990), dried dandelion leaf tea is a safe and effective
natural diuretic. To make dandelion tea, pour one cup of boiling water over
two teaspoons of the herb. Cover and let steep for ten minutes. Drink up to
three cups a day.
45. Fungal infections
For any yeast or fungal infection, whether it be on the scalp or the soles of
the feet, apple cider vinegar rinse seldom fails as a cure. "Apple cider
vinegar is an old folk remedy that helps restore the body's pH to a healthy,
mildly acidic state," says herbalist Brigitte Mars, who practices in
Boulder, Colorado. The best type of vinegar to use is unpasteurized apple
cider vinegar, which is available at natural foods stores.
46. Hay Fever
To relieve hay fever, mince the peels and white inner rinds of grapefruits
and lemons (preferably organic) and simmer them with a small amount of water
in a covered pot for about 10 minutes. Sweeten the mixture with honey, if you
like, and eat one teaspoon three times a day. "This remedy may work by
providing a concentrated dose of bioflavenoids, which are very helpful for
relieving allergy symptoms," says K.E. Edminsten, N.D., who practices in
Newport, Oregon. "In addition, regular doses of locally produced honey
can help desensitize some people to the pollens in their environment."
47. Headache: footbath
For a painful headache, try a hot footbath along with a cold compress on the
forehead. This will constrict blood vessels in the head, reducing the volume
of blood flow and thereby reducing pain. "This technique is particularly
useful for a congestive type of headache," notes Cathy Rogers, a
naturopathic physician in Seattle, Washington.
48. Headache
When you’re hit with a sinus headache, eat a jalapeño pepper as soon as
possible. Within minutes after eating the spicy pepper, your sinuses will
start to drain and the headache will subside. Spicy foods loosen up mucus
secretions in the sinuses, relieving the congestion that causes sinus
headaches.
49. Headache: steam
A peppermint steam inhalation provides quick relief for sinus headaches.
Peppermint acts as a decongestant, and the combination of warm steam and the
essential oil is doubly effective for opening up the sinuses.
Pour one and one-half quarts of boiling water into a heatproof bowl and add a
maximum of two to three drops of peppermint oil (as it can burn your skin if
you use too much). Make a towel tent over your head and the bowl, and breathe
the steam for ten to fifteen minutes, being careful not to burn yourself. Be
sure that you inhale through your nose to get the steam up into your sinuses.
Repeat as often as needed.
50. Head lice
"Almost everything used to kill lice is toxic," says Sharol Tilgner,
N.D., president of Wise Woman Herbals in Creswell, Oregon. She considers a
shampoo with thyme essential oil to be a good alternative to chemical
preparations. Thyme oil is a potent antiseptic with natural insecticidal
properties. Because it is so powerful, it must be used with caution. It is
extremely irritating and should never be applied undiluted to the skin or
scalp. To use it as a shampoo to kill lice, add three to four drops of thyme
essential oil to one tablespoon of shampoo, mix well, and apply the mixture to
the scalp and hair. Leave the shampoo in the hair for five minutes before
rinsing thoroughly with warm water. To help soften the glue that the nits, or
eggs, use to attach themselves to the hair, follow the shampoo with a rinse of
equal parts warm water and vinegar and cover the scalp with a shower cap for
fifteen minutes. Next, comb the hair thoroughly with a special fine-toothed
nit comb (available at pharmacies), and rinse thoroughly. The entire treatment
can be repeated in a week if necessary.
51. Heartburn
Heartburn almost always occurs after a meal, when the stomach is full and
gastric secretions are forced up into the lower part of the esophagus behind
the breastbone, where they cause the characteristic burning sensation. Kit
Karson Crumb, O.M.D., who practices traditional Chinese medicine in Ashland,
Oregon, suggests drinking a cup of ginger tea after meals as an effective way
of relieving or preventing heartburn. "Ginger has antispasmodic
properties and soothes the entire gastrointestinal tract," says Crumb. He
recommends making a tea by adding two teaspoons of freshly grated ginger root
(or two teaspoons of powdered ginger) to one cup of boiling water. Steep this
combination for ten minutes in a covered pot, then take it in small sips over
a period of at least fifteen minutes.
52. Hemorrhoids
'Witch hazel is an excellent topical remedy for hemorrhoids because of its
astringency," says naturopath K. E. Edmisten. Saturate a cotton ball with
distilled witch ha~el, and apply to the hemorrhoid after each bowel movement
and several times throughout the day to help shrink the swollen vein. Edmisten
recommends leaving the witch ha~el-soaked cotton pad on the affected area for
ten to fifteen minutes whenever possihle.
53. Hiccups
Hiccups, sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, can be treated
with acupressure, according to Michael Reed Gach, author of Acupressure's
Potent Points (Bantam Books, 1990).
Lie down or sit in a chair that promotes good posture. Place your middle and
index fingers in the depression behind each earlobe. This point is often
uncomfortably tender. Press lightly and hold for one minute as you breathe
deeply from the abdomen.
54. High-altitude sickness
If you're climbing to a height of more than 6,000 feet and you experience
headache, fatigue, or nausea, you may be suffering from high-altitude
sickness. To prevent an episode or speed recovery, try taking ginger.
According to herbalist Christopher Hobbs, ginger is "good for both mild
altitude sickness and exposure to the cold." Put fifteen to twenty drops
of ginger tincture in half a cup of water and drink.
55. Hot flashes
Sage has strong astringent properties and may help relieve hot flashes. To
make a sage tea, pour three cups boiling water over two tablespoons dried
sage. Cover and steep for fifteen minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey if
desired. Drink one-half cup every couple of hours.
56. Hypoglycemia
"Licorice root can almost immediately raise blood sugar levels to normal
and can ward off an attack of hypoglycemia," says Karta Purkh Singh
Khalsa, an herbalist in Seattle, Washington. The intensely sweet licorice root
makes a delicious tea. Simmer one tablespoon of dried root in three cups of
water for fifteen minutes and strain. Drink up to three cups a day. Licorice
root helps to improve adrenal function, which is often weak in individuals
prone to hypoglycemia, says Khalsa. Because licorice may cause water retention
in susceptible individuals, people with hypertension or kidney disease should
consult a health practitioner before using licorice.
57. Indigestion
Dr. Christiane Northrup uses Swedish bitters for digestive upsets. The
bitter and pungent herbs contained in the formula stimulate digestion and
relieve intestinal gas.
58. Insect bites
To stop the itching and inflammation of mosquito or other insect bites, apply
one drop peppermint oil directly to the bite. Repeat two to three times daily.
Peppermint has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
59. Insomnia: bath
If you're having trouble sleeping, try soaking in an Epsom salts bath just
before bedtime, suggests naturopath Jane Guiltinan, chief medical officer at
Bastyr University Natural Health clinic in Seattle. Add two cups Epsom salts
to a tub of warm water, and soak for twenty minutes. Magnesium is an excellent
muscle relaxant and sedative for the nervous system. According to Guiltinan,
enough magnesium is absorbed through the skin during an Epsom salts bath to
have a relaxing effect on both the body and the mind.
60. Insomnia: tea
A favorite remedy for insomnia is passionflower tea. To make the tea, pour one
cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of dried passionflower, cover, and let
steep for fifteen minutes. Drink about one hour before bed. Rob McCaleb,
ethnobotanist and president of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder,
Colorado, suggests combining passionflower with valerian root. Mix two parts
valerian with one part passionflower, and make the tea according to the
directions given above, using one teaspoon of the herbal blend.
61. Intestinal gas
An ancient yoga posture is an effective remedy for relieving intestinal gas.
Here's how to perform this simple exercise.
- Lie comfortably on your back with your legs straight and your feet about
eight inches apart. Press your left heel away from your body, flexing your
foot and pointing your toes straight up toward the ceiling.
- Keeping your left foot flexed and your left leg resting on the floor,
bend your right knee and bring it toward your chest. Interlace your
fingers, and hug your right knee into your chest. Keep your head resting
on the floor as you press your chin down into your neck. Breathe deeply
into your abdomen for ten to fifteen seconds.
- Repeat on the opposite side, flexing your right foot and hugging your
left knee into your chest. Finish by hugging both knees into your chest,
breathing deeply for ten to fifteen seconds. Repeat the entire sequence
two or three times.
62. Itchy skin
To soothe itchy skin, try a combination of lavender and aloe vera, suggests
Katlli Keville, director of the American Herb Association in Nevada City,
California. "Lavender essential oil is both anti-inflammatory and
antibiotic, and aloe vera is soothing and healing for the skin," Keville
says.
She recommends combining twelve drops of lavender essential oil with four
ounces of aloe vera juice. Put the mixture in a spray bottle, and shake well
before using. Spritz the affected areas liberally several times a day.
63. Jet Lag
When flying across time zones, many people experience fatigue,
irritability, and difficulty sleeping. "Jet lag" is the body's
attempt to adjust its biological rhythms, such as temperature, heart rate, and
hormone levels, to a new time zone.
To help your body adapt more quickly, naturopath Steven Schechter, who
practices in Encinitas, California, suggests taking Siberian ginseng. Take
sixty drops (approximately one teaspoon) of Siberian ginseng three limes a
day, preferably on an empty stomach. For preventing jet lag, the herb should
be taken several days before leaving and for a couple of days following the
flight.
64. Low immunity: tincture
Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, calls her favorite tincture "Total
Immune Support" and takes it for any type of illness. She combines two
parts echinacea root, one part finely chopped garlic, one part usnea, one part
freshly grated horseradish, one part lomatium, and one-half part goldenseal.
Place in a quart jar, and add enough brandy or vodka to cover the herbs by two
inches. Allow the mixture to steep for four to six weeks, then strain and
rebottle. Take one dropperful three to four times daily in a small amount of
warm water.
65. Low immunity: soup
To make an immune tonic soup, simmer several slices of astragalus root, a
handful of fresh or dried shiitake and maitake mushrooms, a bulb of peeled
garlic, a sliced burdock root, two inches of sliced fresh gingerroot, and
one-third cup of brown basmati rice in eight cups of water for one hour. Sauté
two cups of sliced assorted vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions in
olive oil, add to the soup, and simmer for another half hour. Remove the
astragalus, slice the mushrooms and remove any hard stems, add light miso to
taste, and garnish with chopped scallions.
66. Lower back pain
For quick relief of lower back pain, Boston naturopathic physician Shiva
Barton suggests a vigorous acupressure massage of the Achilles tendon.
Starting at the top of the heel, grasp the tendon at the back of the heel, and
massage this point for ten seconds. Proceed up the tendon in one-half-inch
increments to three inches above the anklebone, massaging each point for ten
seconds. Continue the massage for five minutes, always beginning at the bottom
of the tendon and working your way up. Repeat the massage on the opposite
tendon.
67. Menstrual cramps
Most menstrual cramps are caused by a hormonal imbalance, the stimulatory
effect of too much estrogen in relation to progesterone, explains naturopath
Molly Linton. Caffeine interferes with the proper metabolism of estrogen. In
addition, caffeine causes fluctuations in blood sugar levels that exacerbate
PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms, breast sensitivity, and menstrual
cramps. If you want to give up caffeine, be aware that coffee, black tea,
chocolate, colas, and some over-the-counter medications (including menstrual
pain relief formulas) contain caffeine. You should even avoid decaffeinated
coffee, because it contains methylxanthines, the family of chemicals that
includes caffeine and is responsible for its problem-causing effects.
68. Morning sickness
Naturopath Linda Herrick recommends ginger to alleviate morning sickness.
However, she suggests consulting a health practitioner before taking large
amounts of ginger, especially if you have a history of miscarriage.
"Otherwise, you can take as much and as often as needed, up to
twenty-five capsules of freeze-dried ginger a day" says Herrick. In
addition, sipping on ginger tea throughout the day can provide relief. Simmer
one teaspoon of freshly grated gingerroot in one cup of water in a covered pot
for five minutes. Strain, and add lemon and honey if desired.
69. Muscle Aches
A hot salt pack is an effective treatment for backaches and menstrual cramps.
Heat one pound of salt in a heavy pan on the stovetop. Funnel the hot salt
into a clean, heavy cotton sock. Don’t overfill the sock-you want to leave
it pliable, like a beanbag. Pin the end securely, and apply the warm sock to
the painful area. Leave it in place for approximately 30 minutes, or longer if
desired.
"A hot salt pack works on the same principle as a hot water bottle,"
says Cathy Rogers, N.D. who practices in Seattle, Washington. Heat stimulates
circulation bringing fresh blood to the area to speed healing.
70. Muscle cramps
Taking 50 mg of vitamin B6 daily helps to balance sodium and potassium in the
body and maintains normal levels of magnesium in the cells. This is essential
for the proper functioning of the nerves and muscles, which may account for
the effectiveness of vitamin B6 in relieving muscle cramps.
71. Nausea
Annemarie Colbin, founder of the Natural Gourmet Cookery School in New
York, uses umeboshi paste to relieve the queasiness of motion sickness or to
settle an upset stomach from overindulgence, especially in sweets. "Umeboshi
is salty and counteracts the effects of sweet, rich foods within
minutes," she says. Dosages are highly personal. She recommends sticking
your pinkie finger into the jar of umeboshi paste, trusting that the amount
that sticks to your finger is an appropriate amount to take.
72. Nervous tension
"Valerian is widely used around the world for the relief of tension and
anxiety," says Chanchal Cabrera, director of herbal studies at Wild Rose
College in Vancouver, British Columbia. Valerian helps you relax without
unpleasant or dangerous side effects. Because it has a strong odor and taste,
you may want to use capsules of the dried herb instead of making a tea. Take
two capsules, and repeat the dosage in one hour if you still feel tense.
73. Night blindness
"Bilberry is very effective for improving night vision," says
herbalist Chanchal Cabrera. The dark purple bilberry fruit is a close relative
of the blueberry, and contains high levels of natural antioxidant compounds
that prevent the free radical damage associated with eye disorders such as
night blindness, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Bilberry also helps
strengthen the small blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen to the eyes.
"I especially like herbal medicines that can be eaten in their whole
natural form," says Cabrera. She recommends consuming at least one-half
cup of bilberries daily, and uses frozen blueberries when fresh are out of
season. If you choose to use bilberry extract, look for products that are made
from the fruit instead of the leaf, and take one dropperful three times daily.
74. Nosebleeds
The blood should flow out of the nostrils rather than into the throat, so
lying down to stop a nosebleed is not a good idea. Instead, sit down, lean
forward, and put your head down, leaving the mouth open for free breathing.
Give one vigorous blow of the nostrils, to clear anything that may hamper
normal clotting. Then firmly squeeze the sides of the nose together. Place a
cold compress on the top of the nose to further constrict blood vessels. Apply
pressure and hold for six to eight minutes, without interruption. If bleeding
persists, repeat.
75. Ovulation pain
When ovulation occurs, many women feel a mild but uncomfortable cramping
that persists for about a day. For relief, combine six drops of clary sage
essential oil with one tablespoon of vegetable oil, and massage this onto your
abdomen. Clary sage has both antispasmodic and sedative properties, and also
promotes relaxation. Also, place a hot water bottle wrapped in a thin cotton
towel over your abdomen and rest for thirty minutes. Heat helps to relax the
abdominal muscles and organs.
76. Perspiration
Witch hazel has astringent properties and acts as a mild deodorant by
helping to dry perspiration. To make a fragrant and effective natural
deodorant, add essential oils to distilled witch hazel, suggests Joan Clark,
vice president of the Michael Scholes School for Aromatic Studies in Beverly
Hills, California. Not only do essential oils smell good, but many have
antimicrobial properties that help to neutralize odors. Add two drops of
cypress, two drops of rosemary, eight drops of cedarwood, four drops of
patchouli, and two drops of lemon essential oils to four ounces of distilled
witch hazel. Store in a glass spray bottle, and shake before using. This
gentle natural deodorant can be used not only under the arms, but as a whole
body mist.
77. Pinched finger
If you've bruised your finger or toe and painful pressure is building under
the nail, you can quickly relieve the swelling with this simple technique:
- Help minimize swelling by applying ice to the affected nail as soon as
possible after the injury.
- When the blood blister becomes painful, straighten the end of a paper
clip, and heat the tip in a flame until it turns red-hot. Place the heated
tip of the paper clip against your nail; this won't be painful because
there are no nerve endings in your nail.
- Allow the paper clip to melt a hole through your nail. You don't need to
apply pressure, but you may have to repeat the procedure several times on
a tough nail. Have a tissue handy to wipe up the blood. Your nail will
heal more quickly and with much less pain.
78. Poisonings
"Every home should have activated charcoal on hand as an antidote for
poisoning," says Tori Hudson, naturopathic physician and professor of
gynecology at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland,
Oregon. Activated charcoal, available in natural foods stores and some
pharmacies, is charcoal that has been processed to be especially porous. When
ingested, the grains of charcoal adsorb and bind poisons in the stomach,
rendering them harmless until they can be excreted through the intestinal
tract.
Generally, charcoal powder is more effective than charcoal tablets. One
tablespoon of powdered charcoal (about 10 grams) adsorbs approximately 3 to 7
grams of foreign material. "Charcoal is nontoxic, so to be on the safe
side, estimate the weight of the poison ingested, and give approximately eight
to ten times as much charcoal mixed into a glass of water," Hudson says.
79. Poison ivy: paste
The itching, burning, and oozing rash caused by poison oak or poison ivy calls
for a soothing, cooling, and drying remedy. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar
recommends a simple combination of clay, sea salt, and peppermint essential
oil. "Clay and sea salt are drying, and peppermint oil is cooling,"
she explains. Mix one teaspoon of salt into one-half cup of water. Add one
tablespoon of cosmetic clay (white or green clay, obtainable in natural foods
stores) and three drops of peppermint oil, and mix until you have a spreadable
paste.
80. Poison ivy: poultice
To soothe a rash poison ivy and poison oak, apply a poultice of honey and
powdered goldenseal. Mix equal parts of raw honey and goldenseal powder into a
paste, spread onto the rash, and cover with a gauze bandage. Change the
dressing daily. "Goldenseal has powerful antiseptic properties,"
says Collette Gardiner, an herbalist in Eugene, Oregon. And because it is
highly astringent, it helps to dry and heal the weeping rash. Raw honey is a
perfect medium because it soothes skin irritations and has humectant
properties to prevent the skin from becoming dry and cracked.
81. PMS
Because the stimulatory effect of excessive levels of estrogen in relation to
progesterone can cause PMS symptoms such as irritability and mood swings,
naturopath Linda Herrick focuses on balancing the hormones. She recommends
natural progesterone cream, available from naturopathic physicians or at some
pharmacies, to help increase progesterone levels. Apply approximately
one-quarter teaspoon of the cream to the breasts or abdomen daily for one
month, and then use the cream every month from day 12 of the menstrual cycle
until menstruation begins.
82. Prostatitis
"Chronic prostate infections are often linked to a lack of dietary
zinc," says Michael Murray, N.D., author of Male Sexual Vitality (Prima,
1994). Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of zinc as well as essential fatty
acids, which are also necessary for prostatic health. For acute prostatis,
Murray recommends 60mgs of supplemental zinc daily. Do not take this amount
for more than six months because high levels of zinc can negatively affect
copper levels. For general prostate health, he suggests taking 15 to 30mg of
zinc daily.
83. Shaving rash
To soothe shaving irritation, chill wet chamomille tea bags and place them
on the inflamed skin. Chamomille contains an oil called azulene, which has
potent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and pain-relieving properties. For
larger areas of irritated skin, cold chamomille compresses are helpful. Brew a
strong tea of chamomille by pouring two cups of boiling water over four
tablespoons of the herb and steeping until cool in a covered pot. Strain, and
refrigerate for up to one week. After shaving or waxing, dip a clean washcloth
in the cold tea and apply the wet cloth to the irritated area for about 10
minutes.
84. Sinus pressure: steam
Inhaling chamomille steam will clear a stuffy nose and help relieve many sinus
problems. Place one-half cup of dried chamomille flowers (or six bags of
chamomille tea) into a large pot with two quarts of water. Cover, and bring to
a boil. Remove from heat, and let stand, covered, for ten minutes. Remove the
lid, place your face over the pot (being careful not to burn yourself with the
steam), and drape a large towel over your head and the pot to make a tent for
your face, head and neck. Breathe the warm, moist steam for about ten minutes.
If at any time the steam feels too hot, lift the towel to allow cool air to
enter the tent.
85. Sinus pressure: tonic
For quick relief of the pressure of sinus congestion, try a teaspoon of finely
grated horseradish mixed with apple cider vinegar and honey to taste.
"Just inhaling the fumes while grating the horseradish is guaranteed to
open up your sinuses," says herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. Horseradish is a
member of the mustard family and contains pungent aromatic oils that act as a
potent decongestant. Unfortunately, bottled horseradish will not have the same
effect. According to Gladstar, even freshly grated horseradish quickly loses
its decongestive properties, so the remedy should be fresh each time you need
it.
86. Skin infections
Impetigo—a bacterial infection characterized by clusters of tiny blisters
that form a honey-colored crust when they break-is often healed by diluting
one drop of tea tree oil in one cup of warm water and applying wet compresses
of this solution to the dried blisters. After soaking the lesions, apply an
ointment containing calendula.
87. Sore throat
If you are suffering from a sore throat, try carrots-in a poultice. Naturopath
Cathy Rogers says, "This cold poultice soothes and reduces inflammation,
it also stimulates circulation and lymphatic drainage." She suggests you
grate a carrot, and place it in the center of a handkerchief. Fold in two
opposite edges of the handkerchief to make a flat poultice, with the carrot on
the inside. Wrap around the that, pinning the cloth in place. Soak a dishtowel
in ice water, wring it out, and wrap it around the carrot poultice. Cover
everything with a wool scarf, and secure it with a pin. Leave on the throat
for thirty to forty-five minutes or until the poultice becomes warm. The
treatment can be repeated as needed and can be left on overnight.
88. Sore throat: tea
Thyme is a favorite herb for relieving sore throats. The aromatic oil is
antiseptic and soothing. Try drinking several cups of thyme tea a day. To make
thyme tea, pour two cups of boiling water over two teaspoons of dried thyme
leaves. Cover and steep for fifteen minutes. Strain out the herb, sweeten with
honey if desired, and drink hot. Thyme tea (sweetened or unsweetened) also
makes an excellent gargle for sore throats.
89. Sore throat: gargle
"Cayenne pepper will effectively knock out sore throat pain for up to
several hours," says naturopath Jane Guiltinan. Cayenne pepper promotes
the depletion of substance P, the pain-causing chemicals produced by nerve
endings. This provides relief until the nerves replenish their supply of
substance P.
To make a sore throat-blasting gargle, add the juice of half a lemon and one
tablespoon of salt of one-half cup of lukewarm water. Add to the mixture
one-eighth teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or more if you can tolerate it. Gargle
this mixture as long as you can, says Guiltinan, but don’t swallow it. Lemon
juice adds an astringent element to the gargle, shrinking swollen membranes,
and salt discourages bacterial growth in the throat.
90. Sour stomach
An ancient home remedy used in India to settle a sour stomach is to sip a
glass of lime-ginger juice. To make the juice, finely grate about one inch of
fresh gingerroot. Squeeze the grated ginger until you have about one-half
teaspoon of ginger juice, and add five ounces of water along with one teaspoon
of fresh lime juice.
According to Ayurveda, the traditional healing system of India, a sour stomach
indicates the accumulation of ama (undigested food or waste materials). To
reduce ama and relieve the sour stomach, it is necessary to improve agni, the
digestive fire. Ginger is warming and good for agni, while lime juice is sour
and slightly bitter and spurs the secretion of digestive enzymes.
92. Sties
A sty is a bacterial infection in an eyelash follicle; it begins as a red
swelling on the eyelid and progresses to a painful pimple. For relief from
painful sties, try this hot calendula compress. First, make a strong tea from
calendula by pouring two cups of boiling water over two tablespoons of the
dried flowers and letting the mixture steep in a covered pot for twenty
minutes. Strain out the herb, reheat the tea if necessary, soak a clean
washcloth in it, wring out the washcloth, and apply it to the eye. Keep
applying the warm compress for at least five minutes, several times a day.
"Calendula is an excellent herb to use for treating sties because of its
antibacterial and wound-healing properties," says Linda Meloche, a
Beaverton, Oregon, naturopathic physician. Heat is what brings the sty to a
head, so make the compress as hot as possible.
93. Stiff muscles
Whenever muscles are sore and stiff, try soaking in a hot rosemary bath. Fill
the bathtub with comfortably hot water, add eight drops of rosemary essential
oil diluted in one teaspoon witch hazel, mix into the water with your hand.
Soak for twenty minutes. It also helps to massage the sore muscles while you
are soaking.
94. Tendinitis
Activities that involve repetitive movement such as racquet sports,
running, or gardening can cause tendinitis or inflammation of a tendon.
Naturopath Steven Schechter, who practices in Encinatas, California,
recommends using an extract of either grape seed or French pine bark for
treating tendinitis. Both products contain a type of bioflavonoid that has
powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Schechter suggests taking
100 to 300mg daily, divided into two doses, until pain subsides-for at least
three days but for no more than three weeks. A maintenance dosage of 30 to 50
mg can be taken daily. Warming up with generous stretches before engaging in
vigorous activities is wise preventative medicine.
95. Tired eyes
If your eyes are irritated from smog, dust or allergies, or if you need a
break after hours of staring at a computer, try this ten minute routine to
relax and soothe your eyes. Bend over a sink, and splash your eyes several
times with cold water. Then place a hot washcloth over your closed eyelids,
pressing your eyes gently with your fingertips. Alternate the cold water
splash and the hot washcloth several times, ending with the cold water splash.
Rub an ice cube around each eye several times. Pat your eyes dry with a soft
towel.
Finish by lying on your back with your feet slightly elevated. Place a slice
of chilled cucumber or a cool, wet tea bag over each closed eye.
96. Upset stomach: tincture
Roy Upton, an herbalist in Soquel, California, and president of the
American Herbalist’s Guild, suggests bitter herbs such as gentian to relieve
upset stomachs. Gentian is very bitter and is best tolerated in tincture form.
Add one-quarter teaspoon to one-half cup of hot water, and sip slowly.
"You can also by herbal bitters that combine gentian and sweet-flavored
herbs," says Upton.
97. Upset stomach: tea
Catnip has a tranquilizing effect that calms a nervous stomach, helping to
relieve indigestion or heartburn, says Elson Haas, M.D., author of Staying
Healthy with Nutrition (Celestial Arts, 1992). To make catnip tea, pour one
cup of boiling water over one to two teaspoons of catnip and steep in a
covered pot for twenty minutes. Strain, add sweetener and lemon if desired,
and drink while warm.
98. Vaginal infection
Vitamin A can relieve the itching of a vaginal yeast infection. Naturopath
Tori Hudson suggests using gel capsules of vitamin A (25,000 IU) as a vaginal
suppository to soothe inflamed vaginal tissue and to stimulate immune response
in the vagina. Place a capsule into the vagina once or twice daily. The
capsules will naturally dissolve. "Do not use vitamin A suppositories if
you are pregnant," Hudson cautions.
99. Warts
Warts are caused by a virus, which usually enters through a crack in the
skin. "Garlic is a powerful antifungal, but use caution if you have
sensitive skin, because the oils in garlic can burn," says herbalist
Brigitte Mars. Apply vitamin E oil to the surrounding skin, then crush a clove
of raw garlic, place it on the wart, and cover it with an adhesive bandage.
The raw garlic causes a blister to form, and the wart generally falls off
within a week. Apply vitamin E oil to the area to help it heal.
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