The retention of body waste has an insidious effect on our health than is generally suspected, and its elimination is one of the first steps toward perceptible progress.

I am recommending Dr. Christopher’s Three -Day Cleanse to begin.

To begin the three day cleansing program, the individual is required to undergo three days of detoxification therapy, then proceed with the mucusless diet:

First thing in the morning upon arising, drink 16 ounces or more of prune juice (unsweetened, if possible). The prune juice is not primarily to empty the bowels, which it will do, but rather to draw into the intestines from every part of the body such toxic matter or body waste as may be there, and eliminate it through the bowels.

After beginning with the sixteen ounces of prune juice, within one half hour take an eight ounce glass of undiluted apple juice. Swish each mouthful thoroughly (called chewing). Then, 30 minutes later drink a glass of plain water (preferably distilled), followed 30 minutes later with more apple juice.

The general procedure is: 16 oz. of prune juice first thing in the morning, then, 8 oz. of apple juice 30 minutes later, and 8 oz. of distilled water after that; repeating the juice and distilled water each 30 minutes throughout the day. One gallon of apple juice is consumed each day for an average size adult, or one ounce per pound of body weight. (This of course is an approximate and suggested dosage, as age, ability to hold liquids, etc., determine the capacity for each specific case.)

Breaking up the mucus during the juice cleanse generally causes constipation throughout the three days. Use more prune juice or you can take a product such as Smoooth Mooove by Crooked House Herbals, or Dr. Christopher’s Lower Bowel Formula available online.

Repeat this detoxification for 3 consecutive days. Thus, approximately three gallons of mucus and catarrh will have been eliminated and will have been replaced by three gallons of juice. This has resulted in speeding up the re-alkalinizing of the system.

During the three-day cleanse, take one or two tablespoons of olive oil three times a day, to aid in lubricating bile and liver ducts, etc.

On the fourth and subsequent days, we begin taking vegetable and fruit juices, along with raw fruits and vegetables. Then follow the mucusless diet as close as possible.

Do not be concerned if you feel weak during or after this detoxification. Our bodies are using the energies for internal housecleaning, soon an increase of energy will occur as a result of a cleaner healthier body.

Here are some substitutions if you are not a fan of apple juice.

Carrot Juice Therapy:

Follow the same procedure as you would with the apple juice therapy.

Citrus Juice Therapy:

This is best for those who live in a citrus belt region. Prepare the juice fresh in the following proportions: four to six grapefruit, two to three lemons, and enough oranges to complete a total mixture of two quarts. Dilute using two quarts of distilled water, making one gallon of citrus juice mixture. Proceed as in the apple juice therapy.

Grape Juice Therapy:

Use only unsweetened grape juice containing no additives. Do not use frozen concentrate (it has been cooked). Use fresh grape juice, if possible. Proceed as in the apple juice therapy.

If nothing were done to replace something in volume equal to the quantity of matter eliminated in the body, then the body would naturally be dehydrated. Therefore, by drinking fruit juices, we replace the toxic or acrid material removed. This procedure should have an alkaline reaction on our system.

There are various types of juice therapies-apple, carrot, grape, citrus, tomato, etc.- but only use the one chosen juice for the three days, and swish each mouthful thoroughly, (called chewing), so the saliva will mix with it; therefore our bodies can get all the nutrition and healing value from it.

Do not eat anything during the three day cleanse, although if very hungry towards evening, you may take some celery. When using apple juice, an apple or two is acceptable. With carrot juice, use carrots, and so on and so forth.

Apples are one of the greatest herbs and blood purifiers known. This is why most prefer to use apple juice. Fresh apple juice is best, if obtainable, otherwise buy any bottled apple juice that has no preservatives or additives.

What’s next?

Taken from Dr. Christopher’s Mucusless Diet Program

The second step to healing the body is for an individual to eliminate the mucus-forming foods from the diet. Using this procedure, not only are the sinuses, the bronchi, and the lungs cleared but also the constipating mucus (catarrh) in the tissues of the body from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet.

If this diet is followed as outlined, we guarantee that after a short time you will have much more satisfaction from the foods we recommend, for better health, than you ever had from the food of your former diet.

Now, what can you eat?

The Do’s:

Any whole, live, raw foods. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and a small amount of fresh fish or chemical free chicken.

The Dont’s:

Salt, eggs, all refined sugars, meat, all milk products, flours and flour products.

Do not be concerned because this diet omits meat and the commercial types of protein and don’t worry about adding protein, as you will get all that you need in these foods. The gorilla is built on the same order as the human being, and he gets all the protein he needs from just fruits, nuts and seeds.

The best food to start the day is fresh fruit or a good low heated whole grain. This should be a cereal in its wholesome state (with life in it). It can be prepared in a thermos bottle: Take a thermos bottle, fill in the early afternoon or evening one-third full of grain, then finish filling the thermos bottle with boiling water. Turn the thermos over two or three times to mix the grain and water. The next morning the grain is ready for consumption.

Sprouted grains are another excellent and nutritious food source. Alternate the grains.

Almost any live seed or grain can be sprouted, find the one you like and enjoy.

Fruit and vegetable juices along with dried fruits are another wonderful source for this diet.

There are also thousands of salad combinations available, with some investigation and experimentation, you will never run short of interesting combinations. This diet can be challenging as well as rewarding. The health and wellness that will result from following this diet is reward enough.

Here are some extras if you are interested or need more!

Additional Blood Cleansing

An aid to assist in Purifying the Blood Stream, same type formula as used by Hoxey for years.
The blood stream is life itself and it is our job to keep it clean and pure so that we can have a good circulatory system for delivering food to the body properly and, in addition, to carry off the waste materials.

Herbal blood rebuilders are made up of herbs that are cleansers, but also herbs that give astringency, others aid in removing cholesterol, kill infection, or build elasticity in the veins and to strengthen the vein and artery walls.

Cayenne should be used six days a week, each week of program. This herb is, as are the others, a food and not a drug. Work up to a teaspoon of Cayenne three times a day.

Apple cider vinegar and blackstrap molasses are also beneficial. Use a tablespoon of each in a glass of distilled water three times each day. Take a tablespoon or more of wheat germ oil three times a day.

Remember to drink no less than one gallon of pure steam-distilled water for a person 130 lbs. or over, every day (less or more, one ounce of distilled water to each pound the person weighs).

Extended Herbal Cleaning Program (heavy metal detoxing, chronic conditions)

When dealing with long-standing health problems we cannot expect to totally cleanse or cure the body with one or more three-day cleansing routines. Therefore, to rid the body of chronic conditions or to prevent their occurrence, an extended herbal cleanse is an excellent path to follow. This should be used in conjunction with the aforementioned mucusless diet.

Upon arising take one or two capsules of the Smoooth Mooove Capsules.  Or Dr. Christopher’s Lower Bowel Formula. This would then be repeated one hour before lunch, and prior to retiring for the night. Increase your dosage by one capsule per day until you are having three regular bowel movements a day.

In addition take a dropperful  of the Kidney Kindness formula mid-morning and also mid-afternoon.

This routine would be followed six days, resting on the seventh. Resume taking the herbs on the second week, adding two droppers of the Liver Detox tincture or drink a cup of the Liver Detox Tea twenty minutes before each meal. Do this again for six days, resting on the seventh day.

Take these three cleansing formulas for 2 more weeks, and then on the fourth week add two capsules of the Clean Blood Formula or drink a cup of the Clean Blood Tea one hour after each meal. Do this again for six days, resting on the seventh day.

This procedure would then continue every week for six weeks, after which we would rest one week. We would repeat these intervals for six months and then rest for one entire month. At the end of this seven month program we would assess our progress and determine if another seven month program would be beneficial. This would be done for extensive blood purification and can be done in three-month intervals depending upon the severity of the situation.

There are other herbs such as bugledock and bugleweed that are particularly good for heavy metal poisoning and can be added to any stage of the cleansing process preferably after the three-day cleanse.

(I can prepare a tincture of these for you if you choose to use it).

Foods to help with Heavy Metal Detoxification

Cilantro

Brazil Nuts

garlic.

wild blueberries.

lemon water.

spirulina.

chlorella.

barley grass juice powder.

Atlantic dulse.

Curry

Green tea

Tomatoes

Foods to Avoid

Brown rice because it contains arsenic

Spring water that has not been distilled

Fish

Alcohol (is taking alcohol-based tincture dispel the alcohol in warm water before taking the tincture)

Chelation Pesto Recipe ( I love this stuff!)

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/3 cup Brazil nuts (selenium source)
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (cysteine source)
• 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (zinc, magnesium sources)
• 2 cups packed fresh cilantro (coriander, Chinese parsley) (vitamin A source)
• 2/3 cup flaxseed oil
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice (vitamin C source)
• 2 teaspoons Dulse powder
• Sea salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Process the cilantro and flaxseed oil in a blender or food processor until the cilantro is chopped.
2. Add the garlic, nuts, and seeds, dulse and lemon juice and process until the mixture is finely blended into a paste.
3. Add sea salt and pepper to taste and store in dark glass jars if possible.
4. It freezes well, so purchase cilantro in season and fill enough jars to last through the year.

The post Detoxifying and Cleansing the Body appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Rene, entranced by the story, wrote down the names of the plants and herbs used in the medicine, and kept them for herself to help if she ever developed cancer in future. As it happened, her aunt was diagnosed with cancer in the town of Brockville, Ontario. After reaching her and speaking with the doctor, who she had known previously because of patients she had nursed in the past, she requested that they try the old medicine man’s tea to see if it would help. Given that the doctor had no other medical knowledge to apply to the cancer, he consented, in the hopes of helping the woman. After taking the tea regularly, Rene’s aunt lived for 21 years after her run in with cancer and was never diagnosed with any recurring cancer again.

Upon seeing this seemingly “miracle” cure, other doctors began to request her help, and she traveled to many different patients. The results were amazing. In fact, the results were so staggering that eight of the doctors she worked under administering the treatment sent a letter to the Department of National Health and Welfare.

The letter stated as follows:

“To Whom It May Concern:

We the undersigned believe that the ‘Treatment for Cancer’ given by Nurse R.M. Caisse can do no harm and that it relieves pain, will reduce the enlargement and will prolong life in hopeless cases. To the best of our knowledge, she has not been given a case to treat until everything in medical and surgical science has been tried without effect and even then she was able to show remarkable beneficial results on those cases at that late stage.

“We would be interested to see her given an opportunity to prove her work in a large way. To the best of our knowledge she has treated all cases free of any charge and has been carrying on this work over the period of the past two years.”

The story of the Rene Cassie and Essiac is a longstanding one and can be accessed here if you would like to learn more. http://essiacfacts.com/rene-caisse/

We now have the Essiac Formula (with a few added herbs) available for you through Crooked House Herbals. It is not only good for cancer, has been used for many other types of illnesses including inflammatory diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes and even AIDS.

As with any herb or herbal formula, it is always wise to see a doctor and receive a viable diagnosis before beginning any alternative healing protocol and be sure to allow ample time for the natural healing properties of herbs to have an effect.  And it is recommended that you take the formula for 6 days and then provide 1 day off. Drink plenty of distilled water while taking Essiac Formula.

Essiac Formula contains:

Blessed Thistle, Burdock Root, Kelp, Red Clover, Sheep Sorrel Root, Slippery Elm Bark, Turkey Rhubarb Root, Watercress, Vegetable Glycerin

The post The Benefits of Essiac Formula appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Burdock is a part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family.  It is a biennial plant with large soft, light green leaves and thistle-like red-purple flowers that form burrs with hooked spines.  It can reach heights of 6-8 feet tall.  It is nicknamed the “Velcro plant” because one day when Swiss inventor, George de Mestral was walking his dog and noticed that after he and his dog had brushed by a large burdock, the plant’s “hooks” had tagged onto loops in his wool trousers and in the dog’s fur.  Using the technique of biomimicry, De Mestral made two nylon pads, one of hooks and one of loops; the more you pushed them, the more they fused, and yet they were easily pulled apart; just like the plant’s fruits do in nature. NASA later, used his idea to create many useful products for the space program and Velcro is common place in most households today.

The roots of the burdock are a very popular food in Japan and several other countries and are used medicinally here in the United States.

It likes to grow in hedgerows, wood edges and waste ground. The roots are very long sometimes over 3 feet in length and can be difficult to dig up at times but are well worth the effort. The leaves and the roots are both used.

“Burdock is a ‘deep food’ and alterative that moves the body to a state of well-nourished health, promotes the healing of wounds, and removes the indicators of system imbalance such as low energy, ulcers, skin conditions, and dandruff” – Green (2000).

Burdock is a significant detoxing herb. Crooked House Herbals sells a Burdock Tincture and uses burdock in several products such as Restore, Clean Blood Tea, Somebody Help Me! Anti-inflammatory cream, The Soother. It’s known as a blood purifier as it stimulates the release waste products from the cells. This is a powerful process at the cellular level, you then need to remove the wastes from the body.  Dandelion tea is a perfect compliment to this process as it is a natural diuretic and will help remove the toxins.

This is one reason Burdock is such a wonderful skin cleanser. It returns the system to balance and in turn improves skin conditions, from oily and scaly to acne, boils, eczema, and psoriasis.

Burdock also helps restore and maintain balance of both water and fats in the body. Modern research is showing that burdock benefits conditions such as cancer and HIV. It strongly supports the immune system. The root will break down excess uric acid in the joints that leads to gout. It also relieves arthritis and swollen prostate.

Burdock is bitter which helps stimulate the digestive fluids and promote appetite and digestion.

The leaves can be used for poultices for bruises, boils, acne, rheumatism, arthritis and gout.

The root can be used for acne, eczema, boils, psoriasis, detoxing

I hope this information inspires you to take a closer look at Burdock and introduce it into your wellness regimen.  You may obtain the tincture from www.crookedhouseherbals.com/shop. Please feel free to contact us with any further questions you may have concerning this or any other herb at info[at]crookedhouseherbals[dot]com.

Many Blessings,
Wendy

The post Herb-of-the-Week: Burdock appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Let’s just dive right in!

Since our lives seem to be becoming more and more toxic, researchers and doctors are taking a renewed interest in Myrrh because of its antioxidant properties. Myrrh oil is still commonly used today as a remedy for a variety of ailments. Researchers have become interested in myrrh due to its potent antioxidant activity and potential as a cancer treatment. It has also been shown to be effective in fighting certain types of parasitic infections.

What exactly is Myrrh?

What Is Myrrh?

Myrrh is a resin, or sap-like substance, that comes from a tree called Commiphora myrrha, common in Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh is botanically related to frankincense and is one of the most widely used essential oils in the world.

The myrrh tree is distinctive due to its white flowers and knotted trunk. At times, the tree has very few leaves due to the dry desert conditions where it grows. It can sometimes take on an odd and twisted shape due to the harsh weather and wind.

In order to harvest myrrh, the tree trunks must be cut into to release the resin. The resin is allowed to dry and begins to look like tears all along the tree trunk. The resin is then collected, and the essential oil is made from the sap via steam distillation. This is one reason myrrh essential oil is rather expensive.

Myrrh oil has a smoky, sweet or sometimes bitter smell. The word myrrh comes from the Arabic word “murr” meaning bitter. The oil is a yellowish, orange color with a viscous consistency. It is commonly used as a base for perfume and other fragrances.

Two primary active compounds are found in myrrh, called terpenoids and sesquiterpenes, both of which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Yes, we actually learn this in Herbalist school.  Sesquiterpenes specifically, also influence our emotional center in the hypothalamus, helping us remain calm and balanced. Both compounds are under investigation for their anticancer and antibacterial benefits, as well as other potential therapeutic uses.

Myrrh Oil History

Myrrh essential oil has been used for thousands of years in traditional healing therapies and in religious ceremonies. Common myrrh oil uses historically, include:

• Fragrance
• Embalming
• Flavoring for food
• Treating hay fever
• As an antiseptic to clean and treat wounds
• As a paste to help stop bleeding

The Chinese frequently used myrrh as a medicine, and it remains a part of traditional Chinese medicine to this day. The main myrrh oil use by the Egyptians was for embalming and the Jews used it to make the holy anointing oil that was used in worship services.

The most common historical myrrh oil use was to burn the resin over hot coals. This would release a mysterious, spiritual quality into any room before a religious ceremony. It has also been used in aromatherapy for its meditative quality or for prayer, usually in combination with frankincense.

The smell of myrrh has been traditionally seen as a symbol of suffering, burned at funerals or other solemn events. But, at times myrrh is blended with citrus oils to help produce a more uplifting aroma. These lighter blends have been used to help promote inspiration and emotional insight. Now that we have covered the historical information about myrrh, let’s see what some of our common uses for it are today.

The most common historical myrrh oil use was to burn the resin over hot coals. This would release a mysterious, spiritual quality into any room before a religious ceremony. It has also been used in aromatherapy for its meditative quality or for prayer, usually in combination with frankincense.

The smell of myrrh has been traditionally seen as a symbol of suffering, burned at funerals or other solemn events. But, at times myrrh is blended with citrus oils to help produce a more uplifting aroma. These lighter blends have been used to help promote inspiration and emotional insight. Now that we have covered some of the historical uses for myrrh, let’s see how it is being used today.

Myrrh Oil Benefits

Myrrh oil has many potential benefits, although further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms of how it works and dosages for therapeutic benefits. Here are some of the main benefits of myrrh oil use:

1. Potent Antioxidant

A 2010 animal-based study in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicologyfound that myrrh could protect against liver damage in rabbits due to its high antioxidant capacity. There may be some potential for uses in humans also.

2. Anticancer Benefits

A lab-based study found that myrrh also has potential anticancer benefits. The researchers found that myrrh was able to reduce the proliferation or replication of human cancer cells. They found that myrrh inhibited growth in eight different types of cancer cells, specifically gynecological cancers. Although further research is needed to determine exactly how to use myrrh for cancer treatment, this initial research is promising.

3. Antibacterial and Antifungal Benefits

Historically, myrrh was used to treat wounds and prevent infections. It can still be used in this manner on minor skin irritations such as athlete’s foot, ring worm, and acne. Apply a few drops to a clean towel first before applying it directly to the skin.

4. Anti-Parasitic

A medication has been developed using myrrh as a treatment for fascioliasis, a parasitic worm infection that has been infecting humans worldwide. This parasite is generally transmitted by ingesting aquatic algae and other plants. A medication made with myrrh was able to decrease symptoms of the infection, as well as a drop in parasite egg count found in the feces.

5. Skin Health

Myrrh can help maintain healthy skin. It can help soothe chapped or cracked skin. It is commonly added to skin care products to help with moisturizing and also for fragrance. Ancient Egyptians used it to prevent aging and maintain healthy skin.

6. Relaxation

Myrrh is commonly used in aromatherapy for massages. It can also be added to a warm bath or applied directly to the skin.

Myrrh Oil Uses

Essential oil therapy has been used for thousands of years and is the practice of using oils for their health benefits. Each essential oil has its own unique benefit and can be incorporated as an alternative treatment to a variety of ailments.

Generally, oils are inhaled, sprayed in the air, massaged into the skin and at times taken by mouth. Fragrances are strongly connected to our emotions and memories as our scent receptors are located next to the emotional centers in our brain, the amygdala and hippocampus.

1. Diffuse or Inhale It

You can purchase an essential oil distiller to use throughout the house when you are trying to achieve a certain mood. Or add a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam. Myrrh oil can also be inhaled when you are sick to help improve the symptoms of bronchitis, colds or coughs.

It can also be blended with other essential oils to create a new scent. It blends well with citrus oil, such as bergamot, grapefruit or lemon to help lighten up its fragrance.

2. Apply It Directly to the Skin

It is best to mix myrrh with carrier oils such as jojoba, almond or grape seed oil before applying it to the skin. It can also be mixed with an unscented lotion and used directly on the skin. Due to its antioxidant properties, it is great for anti-aging, skin rejuvenation and wound treatment.

You can also use myrrh to make various natural skin care products when it is blended with other ingredients. For example, consider making homemade frankincense and myrrh lotion to help treat and tone the skin.

3. Use as a Cold Compress

Myrrh oil has many therapeutic properties, therefore add a few drops to a cold compress and apply it directly to any infected or inflamed area for relief. It is antibacterial, antifungal and helps to reduce swelling and inflammation.

4. Relief for Upper Respiratory Problems

It can work as an expectorant to help relieve the symptoms of coughs and cold. It can be used to relieve congestion and help reduce phlegm.

5. Decrease in Digestive Problems

Another myrrh oil use is to help relieve digestive problems such as stomach upset, diarrhea and indigestion.

6. Helps Prevent Gum Disease and Mouth Infections

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, myrrh can help relieve inflammation of the mouth and gums caused by diseases such as gingivitis and mouth ulcers. It can also be used as mouth rinse to prevent gum disease. It can also freshen your breath and commonly used as an ingredient in mouthwash and toothpaste. Crooked House Herbals uses myrrh in their Intense Healing Mouthwash.

7. Helps Treat Hypothyroidism

Myrrh is a natural remedy for hypothyroidism, or a low functioning thyroid. Since it helps reduce stress, it can also help decrease stress on an overtaxed thyroid. Put 2–3 drops directly onto the thyroid area daily to help decrease symptoms.

8. May Help Treat Skin Cancer

As discussed above, myrrh is being studied for its potential anticancer benefits. It has been shown to be beneficial for skin cancer. Consider using it in addition to other traditional treatments, if you have been diagnosed with skin cancer. Apply a few drops per day directly onto the cancer site, always testing a small area first.

9. Treatment for Ulcers and Wounds

Myrrh has the power to increase the function of white blood cells, critical for wound healing. It was found to decrease the incidence of ulcers and improve their healing time, in one 2010 study published in the Journal of Immunotoxicology.

A primary myrrh oil use is as a fungicide or antiseptic. It can help reduce fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or ring worm, when applied directly to the affected area. It can also be used on small scrapes and wounds to prevent infection. Crooked House Herbals uses myrrh in their Foot Fixer antifungal foot spray.

Myrrh can help strengthen the body’s cells by acting as an astringent. It was used traditionally to help stop bleeding. Due to its astringent effects, it may also help prevent hair loss by strengthening the roots in the scalp.

Myrrh Side Effects

 Myrrh does have some side effects that need to be considered before using it therapeutically. As always, it is best to speak to your doctor or trusted health care provider first.

Since one of the most common myrrh oil uses is topical, people with sensitive skin should be cautious. Myrrh has been found to cause dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin, in some people. Always test it first in a small area before applying it all over the skin to make sure you don’t have any allergic reaction.

• If taken internally, myrrh may cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Although it is generally not serious, chronic diarrhea can lead do dehydration, so discontinue its use if you are experiencing gastrointestinal problems.

• Pregnant women should avoid taking myrrh because it may enhance uterine contractions.

• Another potential side effect of myrrh is heart irregularities and lowered blood pressure, although this is mostly seen at high doses of more than 2-4 grams per day. Anyone with a medical condition related to the heart should ask a doctor before using myrrh oil.

• Myrrh may lower blood sugar; therefore, it is not recommended for people with diabetes or other blood sugar conditions. Since it interacts with blood glucose it is also not recommended for people undergoing surgery and it is best to stop its use at least two weeks before surgery.

• Myrrh oil is not recommended for people using anticoagulants such as warfarin (common brand names Coumadin and Jantoven) as it may have potential interactions with this medication. It is also not recommended for people on diabetes medication as there is a potential for a drug interaction.

As with all things moderation is key, unless you have been advised by a professional to take large doses for some reason.

I hope this information has been helpful to you as you move through your journey to wellness. Knowledge truly is power, especially when it comes to our health.  There is no reason to be fearful about our mortality, when we realize our bodies are designed to heal themselves.  When given the proper nourishment and tools to work with, our bodies are magnificent healers!

Sending you many blessings,

Wendy

The post Herb of the Week – Myrrh appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

There has been a vast increase in natural remedies over the last ten years or so, and some of this is due
to the sometimes-fatal side effects of modern pharmaceuticals. It may also be due to the increasing
number of companies that are offering high quality products that can help you improve your health in a
natural way. One of the better documented herbs is Pennyroyal. This herb has been studied and used
for hundreds of years. Some of the Pennyroyal tea benefits include its qualities as a blood purifier and as
a digestive agent for spasm and pain.

While there are many pennyroyal tea benefits, it should be noted that it can be dangerous in certain
circumstances. It can cause spontaneous miscarriage, and pregnant women should not drink Pennyroyal
tea. Otherwise, it is good to promote clarity and stimulation, and has traditionally been used to revive
people who had fainted. It is especially helpful in digestive disorders and can reduce bloating and
cramps from flatulence or constipation. It is thought to be helpful in preventing nervousness and is
supposed to regulate periods or other menstrual issues. It makes a strong mint flavored tea that can
freshen the breath.

One of the more surprising Pennyroyal tea benefits includes its external applications. You can take the
wet and warm teabag and rub it on your skin to repel insects. The herb Pennyroyal was believed to be
the best flea repellent and was also used in a number of culinary dishes such as stuffing and pudding.
This plant is often used to help promote sweating to reduce a fever and is thought to have antimicrobial
effects for healing and infection prevention. It prevents many types of internal and external spasms and
was once used as a treatment for leprosy and hysteria.

The essential oil should be avoided internally, as it can cause a level of toxicity that could be fatal.
However, the Pennyroyal tea benefits include a low dose of the active compounds, which makes it safe
for consumption. It is beneficial to use externally to reduce swelling from bug bites, and can also reduce
bruising, can help treat acne and can help remove spots and scars on the skin. It contains alkaloids that
act to strengthen the gums and is believed to be an excellent and ancient remedy for whooping-cough
and can help clear the liver of toxins with its diuretic qualities.

One of the most popular uses for Pennyroyal is as a flea and pest deterrent. Here is how to use it:

As a flea deterrent. Dried pennyroyal leaves can be scattered around pets' bedding area, and you can
roll up some fresh stems in your dog’s bandana before you go tromping through the woods.
Pennyroyaloil used in flea collars has largely been phased out because it caused miscarriages in cats, so
only use the fresh leafy stuff, please. If a pet or person could be expecting, don’t use pennyroyal at all.

As a pest repellent. Crushed pennyroyal stems stuck in your hat and pockets really will repel gnats and
mosquitoes. Dog owners often see their dogs rolling in pennyroyal patches, and dog instincts can usually
be trusted.

In the garden. We’ve heard from folks who have successfully kept flea beetles off of eggplant by
underplanting the eggplant with pennyroyal, and it may be of use as a companion plant to other pest-
prone crops, too. If you have worked with pennyroyal as a companion crop, please share your
experiences in the comments section below. Should you decide to try intercropping with pennyroyal, be
aware that Pennyroyal can be invasive, though it’s not as thuggish as other mints.

Remember – Nature Heals You Best!

The post Herb of the Week: Pennyroyal appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Life can get busy and stressful, and the “common” headache is sometimes overlooked or masked with a painkiller like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen (which, especially when overused, can sometimes cause more serious health issues). A headache is a good indicator that your body is missing something – maybe you need to take a breather, drink some water or change the way you eat. You may have a vitamin or nutrient deficiency or a food sensitivity that is causing this built-up tension.

Headaches can be triggered by stress, fatigue, allergies, eyestrain, poor posture, alcohol or drugs, low blood sugar, hormones, constipation and nutritional deficiencies. Your body is telling you that something needs to change, so begin to heed those signals. You may be wondering; how do you make a headache go away?
Women suffer from this condition nearly 3 times more than men. Approximately one third of women who get migraines have them just prior to or during menstruation. Hormonal fluctuations of estrogen and progestin are thought to trigger these migraines.

In Dr. Christopher’s School of Natural Healing book, the cause of headaches is stated as the result of a disturbance in some other part of the body, such as digestive disorders in the stomach, liver or bowel; problems in the abdominal area; menstrual irregularities, impingements in the cervix; concussion, eye strain, nervousness, excitement, fatigue, etc. The headache is a mechanism which signals some serious problem elsewhere. The common headache is due to faulty elimination, and the waste matter causes problems until the toxic wastes reach the stomach nerves and affect them. Sometimes headaches are caused from panic, fear, or worrying about the unknown.

It’s all well and good to know what may cause your migraine, but what if you are looking for relief naturally without the use of drugs or other pharmaceuticals which may bring about side effects or other altering conditions? Below are some herbal treatments which have been used successfully in many cases.

Herbal treatments for Migraines

Feverfew (Tenacetum parthenium) is a well-studied herb for the treatment of migraines and has been used successfully. 1 to 4 fresh leaves can be eaten daily for prevention. Some people have noticed the fresh leaves cause mouth sores. A tea can be made of the fresh leaves to avoid getting mouth sores and capsules can also be used. Feverfew seems to work best when taken consistently over time. You may also buy Feverfew in tincture or capsule form.

Cayenne: This increases circulation to all parts of the body. Capsaicin in the juice of fresh peppers was applied to the nose of a group suffering from cluster headaches. This treatment significantly reduced the number of headaches and some were completely cured. Taking cayenne internally has also proven helpful for migraines which would be more preferable than using the fresh juice in the nostril. Crooked House Herbals has a wonderful sinus spray and snuff that contains Cayenne pepper and other healing and soothing herbs you may find beneficial. You may also obtain Cayenne Pepper Tincture from Crooked House Herbals.

Ginger: one study compared the efficacy of ginger for the treatment of migraine headaches to Imitrex a top selling drug. It turned out that only one-eighth of a teaspoon of powdered ginger worked just as well and just as fast as the drug when given at the onset of the migraine. Using ginger daily also helped prevent migraines or decrease their frequency and intensity.

Nervine herbs: Stress is one of the triggers of a migraine. It is suggested by noted herbalists to use a strong nervine tea such as valerian or skullcap with lobelia tincture added. You may purchase Skullcap tincture from Crooked House Herbals.

Science is claiming that some migraines could be due to low serotonin levels. Using herbs such as valerian root, skullcap, rosemary, gotu kola, gingko biloba, lobelia, dandelion root, mullein and st. john’s wort is helpful as well as exercise, fresh air and sunshine to naturally increase serotonin levels. These herbs are all helpful with balancing serotonin levels and may provide great relief.

Crooked House Herbals has a tonic called Active Immune Tonic which contains several of these very potent herbs including Ginger, Cayenne Pepper and Garlic.  Taking a dose of this daily to boost your immune system and provide blood flow and needed circulation to your body could be a great benefit.
You may also be able to get relief through chiropractic care from a NUCCA chiropractor. It may take a few treatments to feel the relief of the adjustments but is worth it.

Not all people who suffer from migraines will respond to one treatment because the cause can be from many sources as explained above. The important thing is to find out what triggers a migraine and work to prevent them and to help relieve the symptoms. They can be very debilitating.

As always, we support you in your desire to be well naturally by listening to your body, providing it with the tools it needs to heal itself. Because we believe, Nature Heals you Best!

Many Blessings!

The post Migraine Headaches: What Can I Do Naturally? appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Gotu Kola

Centella Asiatica

This week’s Herb of the Week is a very interesting and “who knew” herb.  I am always fascinated at how multifaceted most herbs are and how long they have been available for us to use and enjoy.  Let’s take a look at this one…

Centella asiatica, commonly known as centella, Brahmi, Asiatic pennywort or Gotu kola, is a herbaceous, frost-tender perennial plant in the flowering plant family Apiaceae. It is native to wetlands in Asia. It is used as a culinary vegetable and as a medicinal herb. It is a member of the same family as parsley and carrots.

It is regarded as the most spiritual of all herbs in India.  IT is said to develop the crown chakra and to balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain, who doesn’t need a little of that? The leaf even resembles the brain in shape.

There are many benefits of this beautiful herb but first, let’s talk about what Gotu Kola is NOT.

Gotu Kola is not related to Kola Nut.  It does not contain caffeine and is not responsible for giving you a “rush”.

Now, let’s talk about what it DOES do!

Pegged as the “herb of longevity,” gotu kola is a staple in traditional Chinese, Indonesian, and Ayurvedic medicine. Practitioners claim the medicinal plant has the power to boost brainpower, heal skin issues, and promote liver and kidney health — and some studies seem to agree. In traditional Chinese medicine, gotu kola is believed to promote longevity and, in fact, its Chinese name means “fountain of youth.”

Keep reading to learn how gotu kola may help improve your overall health and well-being.

Today in the West gotu kola is most often used to treat varicose veins.

Its main active ingredients are compounds known as triterpenes that increase strength and volume of collagen, an important building block of skin.

Gotu kola is anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, insecticidal, and antifungal — all beneficial properties for the health of your skin.

These properties make topical application useful for minor wound healing, burns, psoriasis, stretch marks, scars, cellulite, and scleroderma. But the proven benefits of gotu kola are more than skin deep.

Gotu kola is used as a brain tonic in Ayurvedic medicine and offers many neuroprotective and mental health benefits.

Gotu Kola Stimulates Growth of New Brain Cells

Gotu kola activates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that acts like fertilizer for your brain encouraging new brain cell formation.

In this way it works similarly to the “other brahmi” — Bacopa monnieri.

It takes a few weeks for gotu kola’s effects to kick in and it seems to work by encouraging dendrite branching, increasing brain plasticity and communication between brain cells.

Gotu kola also increases nerve growth factor (NGF) which stimulates the growth of new nerve cells and safeguards existing ones.

Gotu Kola Protects the Brain from Toxins and Oxidative Stress

Gotu kola protects your brain from damage incurred by the assaults of everyday life.

So far, studies show it protects the brain from neurotoxins like lead, arsenic, aluminum and monosodium glutamate (MSG), a ubiquitous food additive that causes brain fog, migraines, and mood swings.

Another way gotu kola protects the brain is by reducing the effects of free radicals.

Free radical damage, also known as oxidative stress, occurs when unattached oxygen molecules attack cells much in the same way they attack metal causing it to rust.

Antioxidants neutralize damaging free radicals rendering them harmless.

Most plants have some antioxidant capacity, but gotu kola excels as a neuroprotective antioxidant.

Gotu Kola Can Improve Your Mood

If you are one of the millions of people coping with stress, anxiety, or depression, gotu kola can help.

Gotu kola has an anti-anxiety effect in chronically and acutely stressed animals.

In human studies, gotu kola has increased calmness, contentedness, and alertness by 100% and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression by 50%.

It has been shown to lower symptoms of anxiety and stress in persons with generalized anxiety disorder.

It significantly reduces the startle response caused by sudden noises within 30-60 minutes after ingestion.

Since the acoustic startle response is a reliable way to tell if someone is anxious, this is another indicator that this herbal remedy could be useful for treating anxiety.

Gotu Kola Will Help You Sleep

Getting adequate sleep is one of the best things you can do for your brain.

Even one bad night of sleep can leave you unable to concentrate and, in a brain, fog the following day.

Insomnia is a common modern malady but the usual solution, sleeping pills, is a terrible idea since they rob you of restorative sleep and can cause significant memory loss.

Natural Sleep Aids
See Amazon for best selection and value

The popular sleep drug Ambien has been called “the amnesia drug” and sends thousands of people to the emergency room every year.

Gotu kola has safely been used as a natural sleep aid for thousands of years.

Traditionally, gotu kola tea is sweetened with a little honey as an Ayurvedic remedy for insomnia.

Gotu Kola Enhances the Brain Benefits of Vitamin E

Vitamin E is known mostly as a heart-healthy vitamin, but it’s equally important for your brain.

This fat-soluble vitamin slows down age-related mental decline, particularly when paired with vitamin C.

When taken together, “E + C” is linked to improving memory, slowing memory loss, and lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia by 60%.

Gotu kola shows similar synergistic effects with vitamin E making “E + gotu kola” another powerful brain enhancing duo.

Gotu Kola Improves Memory and May Help with Alzheimer’s

Gotu kola can enhance mood and cognition in both healthy seniors and those with Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s patients have significantly reduced levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for memory and learning.

Alzheimer’s drugs like Aricept work by blocking the breakdown of acetylcholine.

Triterpenes are steroid precursors found in gotu kola that are beneficial for Alzheimer’s in two ways.

Similarly, to Aricept, these compounds inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine.

They also prevent the formation of amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

Are you impressed yet? Wait? There’s more!

Take a look at the nutritional value of Gotu Kola.

Gotu Kola is a mild tasting plant and tastes similar to parsley and watercress.  It is a common staple in Asian cuisine. Makes you wonder if that may be one reason they do not suffer from the same “American” dis-ease that Americans do.

There’s More…

Anti-Anxiety/Antidepressant

Used for centuries in TCM to treat anxiety and depression, science has now isolated the active compounds responsible for the remarkable antidepressant effects of this herb. Two of these compounds – brahmoside and brahminoside – have sedative effects, whilst research shows that Gotu Kola reduces anxiety by around 50% in human studies.

Another study has found that Gotu Kola reduces the “startle response” caused by sudden noises within 30 – 60 minutes after ingestion. The acoustic startle response is a reliable way to measure anxiety, a greater general startle reflex being associated with higher anxiety levels.

Antioxidant/Detoxifying

Gotu Kola is a well-known super-antioxidant for the brain, helping to protect brain cells from free radical induced cell death. A powerful brain detoxifier, symptoms of toxic overload in the brain manifest as brain fog, memory loss and lack of concentration to name but a few. This powerful herb destroys toxic accumulations in the brain, including residues of heavy metals, pharmaceutical and recreational drugs, improving the blood flow, which results in a clearer mind and elevated mood.

Used for centuries in traditional medicine as a liver detoxifier, Gotu Kola helps to detoxify the rest of the body by drawing out fluid from tissues, promoting urination and helping to eliminate excess fluid from the body.

Speed Wound Healing

Gotu kola has long been used across Asia for treating wounds, thanks to its triterpenoids and other compounds. Scientific research has found that it’s these compounds that help to strengthen antioxidant levels in the body and improve blood circulation to affected areas for faster healing.

Studies have discovered that creams which include gotu kola can help minimize scarring following a burn, as well as reduce the risk of infection.

Eliminating Stretch Marks & Cellulite While Supporting Younger, Healthier Skin

As gotu kola also helps to strengthen skin, it’s been used for reducing stretch marks and the appearance of cellulite. Studies have confirmed that creams that contain the plant, or an extract of the plant, may be able to lessen the appearance of stretch marks, which are typically caused by pregnancy or weight gain due to the stretching of the skin. Research has also shown that it may reduce cellulite, which occurs when fat cells push through collagen layers.

This may also result in skin that has a more youthful appearance, thanks to improved collagen strength. Doses of 120 milligrams per day have specifically been used for this purpose, and the herb can also be incorporated into a skin cream and applied topically.

Reducing Stress & Anxiety

Gotu kola is classified as a rasayana, or rejuvenate, in Ayurvedic medicine because of its ability to restore balance and better functioning to many parts of the mind and body. It’s ideal for strengthening the nervous system and has even been shown to help repair axons that are used to transmit nerve impulses throughout the body. This makes it excellent as a natural anti-stress and anti-anxiety cure. In fact, research has shown that it managed to decrease the frequency and severity of anxiety attacks in volunteers who suffered from general anxiety disorder.

Managing Diabetes Symptoms

One of the many complications of diabetes includes deterioration of the capillaries. That can result in a slowdown of the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, a condition referred to as dysfunctional micro-circulation which can lead to serious problems like damage to the nerves, kidneys, and eyes, something commonly experienced by diabetes sufferers. Gotu kola is believed to help address this issue by lessening or eliminating these symptoms. Research published in 2001 from St Mary’s Hospital and Imperial College in London, gave gotu kola supplements to diabetic patients who were suffering from diabetic microangiopathy. The experienced significant improvements in symptoms as compared to a group who were given a placebo.

Volunteers who took gotu kola had reduced swelling in the ankles and much-improved blood flow, which led the experts to conclude the plant may help delay or even prevent these serious complications.

Relief from Joint Pain

As gotu kola is a powerful anti-inflammatory, it can also help provide relief for those suffering from joint pain related to problems like arthritis. It’s believed to improve joint function and alleviate common arthritis symptoms, according to research published in the June 2009 issue of the journal Phytomedicine. After taking an active constituent of gotu kola for 21 days, participants experienced decreased joint damage and lower levels of pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenase-2, or COX-2 enzymes, as well as reduced levels of inflammation, leaving researchers to conclude the plant may serve as an effective natural treatment for some forms of arthritis.

In another small study involving 13 women with scleroderma, gotu kola was demonstrated to decrease joint pain and reduce skin hardening, while significantly improving finger movement.

Supporting Heart Health

Gotu kola has also been found in studies to provide important benefits to the heart, something that was demonstrated in a 2007 study published in the journal Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica. The compound madecassoside was shown to inhibit the oxidation of lipids, prevent depletion of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, and prevent early death of heart cells. The experts say the plant may even help prevent stroke by preventing blood clot formation as well. It’s also known to aid in improving and preventing varicose veins and associated foot and ankle swelling by inhibiting fluid leakage from veins.

Further supporting heart health, gotu kola has also been shown to significantly reduce levels of “bad,” LDL cholesterol, while raising “good” HDL cholesterol in studies, including research published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health in March of 2009. The rats who were fed a diet supplemented with gotu kola powder had dramatically lower levels of LDL cholesterol and higher levels of HDL cholesterol, as compared to a control group that was not fed gotu kola. The rats who took the gotu kola powder also experienced a significant decrease in body weight.

Okay, I think we have provided you with a LOT of information about a fascinating herb that some may have thought was “just a pretty ground cover”.

Crooked House Herbals is continuously researching and learning about the power and potential of herbs and delights in bringing these gems to you.  These herbs have been around for thousands of years. They were used often by societies before us, but lost in the shuffle as allopathic medicine began to steer and control more and more. Isn’t it nice to know that you still have the power to make your own decisions?  Learning more about the herbs around you is a great place to begin and we at Crooked House Herbals are happy to assist you on your journey.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website as we create tinctures, oils and formulas including these beauties in the coming months.

Many Blessings!

The post Herb of the Week: Gotu Kola appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Dr. Mercola stated in one of his recent articles, “You are probably aware that castor oil is regarded by some as a remedy for constipation remedy.

But you may not be aware of its reported use as an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal, or that it has been used topically to treat a variety of skin conditions, reduce pain, and stimulate your immune system.” As always, I recommend that you use caution when exploring new herbal treatments and do not just charge in full throttle until you have done your homework. Hopefully, this article will help steer you in the right direction.

What is Castor Oil and Where Does it Come From?

History of the Castor Seed: Ricinus Communis

Castor oil comes from the castor seed, Ricinus communis, which has a very unusual chemical composition. Castor oil is a triglyceride, comprised of fatty acids, 90 percent of which is ricinoleic acid.

This unique fatty acid is found in lower concentrations in a few other seeds and oils  and is thought to be responsible for castor oil’s unique healing properties. The castor seed plant is native to India.

Centuries ago, the plant was referred to as “Palma Christe” because the leaves were said to resemble the hand of Christ. This association likely arose out of people’s reverence for the plant’s healing abilities.

It was later adopted for medicinal use in Ancient Egypt, China, Persia, Africa, Greece, Rome, and eventually in 17^th Century Europe and the Americas. Castor oil is now widely used in industry. The stem of the plant is used in the textile industry, particularly in Russia, where castor oil is known as “Kastorka.”

The oil has a very consistent viscosity and won’t freeze, which makes it ideal for lubricating equipment in severely cold climates. Modern non-medicinal uses for castor oil include:

• Food additive and flavoring agent
• Mold inhibitor
• Ingredient in skin care products and cosmetics (lipstick, shampoo, soap, and others)
• Used in the manufacturing of plastics, rubbers, synthetic resins, fibers, paints, varnishes, lubricants, sealants, dyes, and leather treatments; the lubricants company Castrol took its name from castor oil

Castor oil was first used as an aircraft lubricant in World War I. So, castor oil has a number of handy industrial uses. But did you know that the castor seeds from which castor oil is made can be DEADLY?

How can something that heals also kill

The potent toxin ricin is made from a protein in the castor seeds that, if ingested (orally, nasally, or injected), gets into the ribosomes of your cells where it prevents protein synthesis, which kills the cells. Ricin is made from the “mash” that is left over after processing castor seeds into oil. For this reason, I recommend you buy castor oil, and do not attempt to make your own.

Just 1 milligram of ricin is fatal if inhaled or ingested, and much less than that if injected. Eating just 5 to 10 castor seeds would be fatal.

Once poisoned, there’s no antidote, which is why ricin has been used as a chemical warfare agent. Even though such a toxic component is also derived from this seed, castor oil isn’t considered dangerous.

According to the International Journal of Toxicology’s Final Report on Castor Oil , you don’t have to worry about castor oil being contaminated by ricin, because ricin does not “partition” into the castor oil. Castor oil has been added to cosmetic products for many years, without incident. For example, castor oil and hydrogenated castor oil were reportedly used in 769 and 202 cosmetic products, respectively, in 2002.

The U.S. FDA gives castor oil a “thumbs up,” deeming it “generally regarded as safe and effective” for use as a stimulant laxative.

The Joint Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/World Health Organization (WHO) Expert Committee on Food Additives has established an acceptable daily castor oil intake of up to 0.7 mg/kg body weight. This amounts to, roughly, one tablespoon for adults and one teaspoon for children. Taking castor oil orally usually results in a “purging” of the digestive tract in about four to six hours.

According to the International Castor Oil Association, castor oil studies in which people were dosed with castor oil at dietary concentrations as high as 10 percent for 90 days did not produce any ill effects.

Is there a side effect with castor oil?

Of course, we have all heard about castor oil’s wonderful ability to reverse constipation, but one word to those who have Irritable Bowel Syndrome or ulcers, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, colitis, prolapses, or have recently undergone surgery, you should probably avoid castor oil due to possible reactions.  Castor oil is broken down by your small intestine into ricinoleic acid, which acts as an irritant to your intestinal lining. This effect is what gives castor oil the ability to reverse constipation—but it’s also the reason that some people report digestive discomfort, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal side effects.

Modern Medicinal Uses for Castor Oil

In general, the reported medicinal uses of castor oil fall into the following five general categories:

1. Gastrointestinal remedy
2. Antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal)
3. Labor stimulant
4. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic
5. Immune system and lymphatic stimulant

The oil’s benefits can be derived by topical application, and it appears to be useful for a variety of skin conditions like keratosis, dermatosis, wound healing, acne, ringworm, warts and other skin infections, sebaceous cysts, itching, and even hair loss. Castor oil and ricinoleic acid also enhance the absorption of other agents across your skin. And castor oil shows some promise in the treatment of cancer.  For this reason, we use castor oil in several of our skin care products including our Alive and Fresh Face Wash.

They also report that early clinical trials suggest that ricin, when combined with an antibody to confine this poison to malignant cells, shrinks tumors in lymphoma patients. In fact, castor oil has been reportedly used to treat all of the following conditions listed below. While I certainly cannot attest to castor oil’s efficacy for all of these conditions (as there is not enough research to date), I list them here as a way to illustrate the wide array of possibilities.

Studies Support Castor Oil’s Efficacy as an Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunostimulant

While castor oil has been thoroughly investigated for its industrial use, only a minimal amount of research has been directed toward its medicinal benefits. That said, the healing properties of castor oil appear to have survived countless generations of scrutiny. I believe it has enough history behind it to at least warrant greater scientific exploration, and perhaps a little careful at-home experimentation on your own. Oftentimes, modern day scientific studies end up validating thousands of years of “folklore.”

Castor Oil May Promote Healing by Boosting Your Lymphatic System

One of the more compelling health benefits, if true, is castor oil’s support of your immune system. And this healing property does not require you ingest the oil, but only apply it externally.

The benefits of castor oil packs were popularized by the late psychic healer Edgar Cayce, and then later researched by primary care physician William McGarey of Phoenix, Arizona, a follower of Cayce’s work and the author of The Oil That Heals. McGarey reported that, when used properly, castor oil packs improve the function of your thymus gland and other components of your immune system. More specifically, he found in two separate studies that patients using abdominal castor oil packs had significant increases in lymphocyte production compared to placebo packs.

Lymphocytes are your immune system’s disease-fighting cells and are produced and stored mainly in your lymphatic tissue (thymus gland, spleen, and lymph nodes). Hundreds of miles of lymphatic tubules allow waste to be collected from your tissues and transported to your blood for elimination, a process referred to as lymphatic drainage. When your lymphatic system is not working properly, waste and toxins can build up and make you sick.

Lymphatic congestion is a major factor leading to inflammation and disease. This is where castor oil comes in. When castor oil is absorbed through your skin (according to Cayce and McGarey), your lymphocyte count increases. Increased lymphocytes speed up the removal of toxins from your tissues, which promotes healing.

Castor Oil Can Work Wonders Applied Topically

When my sister’s liver was failing a few years ago, everyone had given up hope. She was at home with 24-hour nurses and doctors coming to the house to see her weekly.  She was unable to talk, confined to a wheelchair and not able to do anything for herself.  I went to see her for a week and took along my “supplies”.  For five days, I applied castor oil packs to her abdomen and liver area 3-4 times a day.  After about three days, we were beginning to see some results.  She was talking and asking for various types of foods (had an appetite), and able to spend a little longer time out of bed.  By the time I had to leave, we had agreed that the next time I came she would be dressing herself and brushing her own hair. The doctor came that morning and stated, “you are doing so much better that I am going to take you ‘out of the woods’”.  Applying castor oil packs can be very effective, here’s how to do it.

Castor oil “packs” can be an economical and efficient method of infusing the ricinoleic acid and other healing components of castor oil directly into your tissues. You would be wise to do a “patch test” prior to applying a castor oil pack to make sure you aren’t allergic to the oil.

There are several ways to use castor oil topically. You can simply rub castor oil onto an affected area of your skin. Or, you can affix a Band-Aide soaked in castor oil if only a very small area needs to be treated. For larger or more systemic applications, it can be used as massage oil, which is reported especially effective when applied along your spinal column, massaged along your lymphatic drainage pathways. But the coup de grace of castor oil therapy is the “castor oil pack.” To make a castor oil pack, you will need the following supplies:

1. High quality cold-pressed castor oil (see last section of this article)
2. A hot water bottle or heating pad
3. Plastic wrap, sheet of plastic, or plastic garbage bag
4. Two or three one-foot square pieces of wool or cotton flannel, or one piece large enough to cover the entire treatment area when folded in thirds
5. One large old bath towel

Below are instructions for making and using a castor oil pack (courtesy of Daniel H. Chong, ND):

• Fold flannel three layers thick so it is still large enough to fit over your entire upper abdomen and liver or stack the three squares.
• Soak flannel with the oil so that it is completely saturated. The oil should be at room temperature.
• Lie on your back with your feet elevated (using a pillow under your knees and feet works well), placing flannel pack directly onto your abdomen; cover oiled flannel with the sheet of plastic, and place the hot water bottle on top of the plastic.
• Cover everything with the old towel to insulate the heat. Take caution not to get the oil on whatever you are laying on, as it can stain. If necessary, cover that surface with something to protect it.
• Leave pack on for 45 to 60 minutes.
• When finished, remove the oil from your skin by washing with a solution of two tablespoons of baking soda to one-quart water, or just soap and water. (Be sure to wash the towel by itself, as the castor oil can make other clothes stink if washed together.)
• You can reuse the pack several times, each time adding more oil as needed to keep the pack saturated. Store the pack in a large zip-lock bag or other plastic container in a convenient location, such as next to your bed. Replace the pack after it begins to change color.
• For maximum effectiveness, apply at least four consecutive days per week for one month. Patients who use the pack daily report the most benefits.

One More Thing….

I mentioned earlier that I was using castor oil in my eyes.  I use our Ever Clear Eye Care daily to nourish and strengthen my eyes and help prevent macular degeneration, improve eyesight etc.  But the castor oil at bedtime is moisturizing them and really helping prevent dry eyes during the day.  Castor oil is an age old Ayurvedic remedy with quite a number of beneficial uses. Ayurveda uses castor oil eyedrops to reduce symptoms related to everything from dry, red, itchy eyes, “allergy eyes”, styes, conjunctivitis (Pink Eye), subconjuntival hemorrhage (broken blood vessel in the eye) glaucoma and cataracts. I just place a drop or two in each eye before I retire. For more information on what castor oil can do for the eyes check out this article https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/6-benefits-using-castor-oil-eyes-aishwarya-malhotra

I hope this information is helpful for those of you who are interested in the many uses of castor oil.  Isn’t it wonderful how one simple oil can be so helpful and healing.  We keep learning and digging deep because we know that Nature Heals You Best!

Sending you many blessings,

Wendy

Products and services rendered by Crooked House Herbals and its representatives are intended to assist in educating those persons interested in exploring options in wellness. They are not intended to replace the care of a medical professional. It is always advised to receive a diagnosis from a licensed health care professional before exploring alternatives.

Sources

• UCC Biology Department
• CyberLipid.org
• com
• International Journal of Toxicology May 2007
• International Castor Oil Association Inc
• eHow
• Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2001
• David Williams November 28, 2011
• Aust N Z J Obstet Gynecol. October 2009
• Complimentary Therapies in Clinical Practice May 19, 2010
• Phytother Res October 2009
• com 1999
• Mediators of Inflammation 2000
• Int J Toxicol 2007
• LymphNotes.com

The post The Skinny On Castor Oil appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

Have you or a loved one ever suffered from premenstrual or menopausal symptoms such as cramps, bloating, breast pain or hot flashes, or the embarrassment of skin conditions such as acne or eczema?  Do you live with chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis or painful diabetic neuropathy?  If so, there may be relief in sight for you.

This week’s spotlight is on Mother Nature’s remarkable gift, Oenothera biennis, known as evening primrose. Commonly called evening star, sun drop, hog weed, donkeys’ herb, fever plant, field primrose, gardeners’ ham, or German rampion, herbalists during the 17^th century referred to it as the “King’s-cure-all” and considered it a panacea for treating most ailments.  It is believed to have originated in Mexico and Central America some 70,000 years ago and subsequently spread across North America to Europe. It was wildly naturalized and can now be found growing all over the world in temperate and subtropical climates.

Evening primrose is a biennial plant that grows up to five feet tall and blooms from late spring to late summer.  The leaves are two to seven inches long, produced in a tight rosette the first year, and spirally on a stem the second year. The beautiful yellow blooms are one to two inches in diameter produced on a tall spike that only last until the following noon. They open visibly fast every evening producing an interesting spectacle, hence the name “evening primrose.”  It is the fruit, however, an oblong “hairy” capsule containing numerous long seeds that is the most prized part of this most amazing gift.

Today the most common and effective medicinal use of this herb is an oil cold pressed from the seeds of the plant.  Evening primrose oil (EPO) is either ingested in an encapsulated form as a dietary supplement or applied topically.  The oil contains one of the highest concentrations known of gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), a fatty acid that is largely responsible for the incredible healing properties of this plant, one of only a few plants that contain it at all.  The GLA, linoleic acid and other nutrients in this oil are essential for cell structure and improve the elasticity of the skin. These fatty acids also help to regulate hormones and have anti-inflammatory properties that improve nerve function aiding problems ranging from PMS to migraine headaches. The hormone balancing effect contributes to healthy breast tissue.

MEDICINAL USES.  Some of the conditions EPO may help include:

PMS, menopause, and menstruation

By interfering with the production of inflammatory prostaglandins released during menstruation, the GLA in evening primrose oil can help to lessen menstrual cramps. It may also minimize premenstrual breast tenderness, irritable bowel flare-ups, and carbohydrate cravings, and help to control endometriosis-associated inflammation. Many PMS sufferers are found to have unusually low levels of GLA in their systems, which is why supplements might help so much. In women with fibrocystic breasts, the oil’s essential fatty acids can minimize breast inflammation and promote the absorption of iodine; a mineral that can be present in abnormally low levels in women with this condition. In menopause, it is widely reported that evening primrose oil reduces hot flashes and increases feelings of wellbeing.

Eczema

In some cases, eczema develops when the body has problems converting dietary fats into GLA. Getting supplemental GLA from evening primrose oil may therefore be helpful. Some studies indicate that this oil can outperform a placebo in relieving eczema-related inflammation, as well as the itching, oozing, and flaking associated with this condition. By taking GLA, eczema sufferers may tolerate reduced doses of steroid creams and drugs, many of which cause unpleasant side effects.

Acne and rosacea

By working to dilute sebum, a thick oily substance that is overly secreted in some people with acne, the essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil may reduce the risk of pores becoming clogged and lesions developing. The oil’s EFAs help treat rosacea by reducing inflammation, controlling cells’ use of nutrients and by producing prostaglandins, which stimulate the contraction of blood vessels.

Joint pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis

Supplementation with evening primrose oil and other sources of GLA has been shown to lessen the joint pain and swelling of this crippling disease. A six-month study reported fewer signs of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis sufferers taking capsules containing GLA than in those taking a placebo. In another trial, the number of tender joints and swollen joints dropped significantly with GLA but not with a placebo.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Research indicates that the GLA in evening primrose oil can help prevent, and in some cases even reverse, the nerve damage (neuropathy) so commonly seen with diabetes. In a year-long study, such symptoms as numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in participants with mild diabetic neuropathy were less marked in those who took evening primrose oil than in those who took a placebo.

Nails, scalp, and hair

The rich stores of essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil not only prevent nails from cracking but also help to keep them generally healthy. In addition, the essential fatty acids nourish the scalp, making the supplement potentially valuable in treating a variety of hair problems.

PRECAUTIONS. Crooked House always recommends that you be mindful of possible interactions that may occur if you are under the care of a physician and taking certain drugs.  Some of those include:

Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants): EPO may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood thinners such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and clopidogrel (Plavix).

Blood pressure medications: EPO may lower blood pressure in some people, although researchers have not confirmed this link. If you take medications to treat high blood pressure, ask your doctor before taking EPO.

Phenothizines: People who take a class of medications called phenothiazines to treat schizophrenia should not take EPO because it may increase the risk of seizures.

Medications to control seizures: EPO may lower the threshold for seizures, so people who are prone to seizures should not take it.

Antidepressants: EPO may interact with some antidepressants, including selective serotonin uptake inhibitors, such as:

• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)

CULTIVATION.  Growing evening primrose is very easy.  It prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) well-drained, sandy soils and requires full sun, however, it is very hardy and will thrive in almost any soil or situation. It provides a wonderful splash of summer color in anyone’s garden, and the flowers attract pollinating insects, along with moths and bats. The seeds are also a good food source for birds. You should remember it is effectively a wild plant and once introduced, if seeds are allowed to be scattered, you may find it trying to take over.

HARVESTING AND STORAGE.  Seeds ripen from August to October and should be collected and processed then if being pressed for oil.  Harvest the flowers in full bloom, but be quick.  They will be gone the next day.  Gather leaves and stem “bark” when flowering stems have grown.  Leaves and seeds can be dried.  Dig up the roots in the second year.

CULINARY USES.   Every part of this plant is edible.  The leaves can be cooked and eaten as greens. The roots can be boiled like potatoes and allegedly taste like sweet parsnips. The flowers are sweet and can be used in salads or as a garnish. The young seedpods can be steamed, and the ripe seeds can be roasted in an oven for 15 to 20 min. at 350° and used on bread or in salads. You can also sprinkle the roasted seeds over any dish like pepper.

So there you have it.  Herbal health alternatives and options, as well as educating those who want to learn to take control of their health, is the mission of the Crooked House. If you have an interest in learning more about the incredible healing powers of plants and herbs that could be growing outside your door, check out our Herbal Life 101 online course.  You won’t be sorry you did.

The post Evening Primrose: The King’s Cure-All appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.

You can purchase the slippery elm gruel mix from Crooked House Herbals at www.crookedhouseherbals.com/shop

Formula:
Slippery Elm Gruel is made by the following Method:
1. Put 1 tablespoon of Slippery Elm Inner Bark Powder in a small Bowl. Add 1 Tablespoon of Licorice Root powder.
2. Slowly stir in 1/2 – 3/4s of a Cup of Boiling Water, making the Mixture into a Paste.
3. Add a little MORE Water to thin-out the Paste to the consistency NEEDED for a Poultice.
4. Add enough Water to make the Paste into a Gruel, that is THICK, like Cream of Wheat!

Applications & Dosages:
A. If someone can NOT HOLD FOOD DOWN and/or has WASTING SYNDROME, then he/she should:
1. Eat 1 tsp. of Slippery Elm Gruel at a time, until FULL.
2. ADD Honey, Maple Syrup for sweetening and/or Cinnamon for flavor.
3. Continue feeding, until the desired RESULTS are achieved.

1. If someone has NO Food, then he/she should:
   1. Eat Slippery Elm Gruel as a Survival Food.
   2. Add RAW Honey or Maple Syrup for sweetening and Cinnamon for flavor and/or Ginger as a digestive aid.
2. If someone has Holes in Body Tissue INTERNALLY such as Endometriosis, then he/she should:
   1. Eat Slippery Elm Gruel as a REPLACEMENT for a Meal.
   2. Continue until the desired RESULTS are achieved.

D. If someone has Holes in Body Tissue EXTERNALLY, then he/she should:
1. Fill in the Holes with Slippery Elm Gruel.
2. Wrap a CLEAN Cotton Cloth over the filled Holes.
3. Continue until the desired RESULTS are achieved.

The post Recipe: Slippery Elm Gruel appeared first on Crooked House Herbals.