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Herbal Antivirals

How Herbal Medicine Can Heal You Naturally –


Little-Known Ways Beginners Can Use Herbal
Remedies and Herbalism to Build Their Own
Apothecary

Written By
Autumn Hubert
© Copyright 2019 – Autumn Hubert
All rights reserved.

The contents of this book may not be reproduced, duplicated, or transmitted


without direct written permission from the author or the publisher.
Under no circumstances will any blame or legal responsibility be held against
the publisher, or author, for any damages, reparation, or monetary loss due to
the information contained within this book, either directly or indirectly.
Legal Notice:
This book is copyright protected. It is only for personal use. You cannot
amend, distribute, sell, use, quote, or paraphrase any part, or the content
within this book, without the consent of the author or publisher.
Disclaimer Notice:
Please note, the information contained within this document is for
educational and entertainment purposes only. All effort has been executed to
present accurate, up-to-date, reliable, complete information. No warranties of
any kind are declared or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not
engaged in the rendering of legal, financial, medical, or professional advice.
The content within this book has been derived from various sources. Please
consult a licensed professional before attempting any techniques outlined in
this book.
By reading this document, the reader agrees that under no circumstances is
the author responsible for any losses, direct or indirect, that are incurred as a
result of the use of the information contained within this document,
including, but not limited to, errors, omissions, or inaccuracies.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Chapter 1: What Everybody Ought To Know About Antivirals
Chapter 2: The Truth About Herbal Antivirals And Herbal Medicine
Chapter 3: The Most Common Herbal Antivirals That Work Like Magic
Chapter 4: Who Else Wants To Strengthen Their Immune System?
Chapter 5: Little-Known Ways Herbal Medicine Can Cure Common
Ailments
Chapter 6: How To Make Sure You Use Herbal Medicine The Right
Way
Chapter 7: Build Your Own Herbal/Natural Remedy Medicine
Collection
Conclusion
Bibliography
Introduction
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries and are the basis for most
modern medicines. The first recorded mention of herbal medicine dates back
over 5,000 years. In ancient Mesopotamia, the Sumerians documented
medicinal plants by inscribing them on clay tablets. Many of the herbs we
recognize today were found on the Ebbers (also spelled Ebers) Papyrus, an
ancient Egyptian document that lists more than 800 medicinal herbal
treatments. It was written around 1550 BCE.
The Papyrus was a vital text with a complete list of medicine from ancient
Egypt. It is also essential to modern-day herbal remedies as it shows that man
has been taking a holistic approach to restoring physiological balance for
thousands of years, even when physicians had limited knowledge of anatomy
or internal workings of the human body.
Right up to the seventeenth [LA1]century, healers used extracts of various
plants to cure ailments. One of the most prominent herbal remedies at the
time was the bark of the cinchona tree. Its active ingredient is quinine, which
was isolated and used in various medicinal applications in the late eighteenth
century. It was especially useful for treating malaria.
Plants like foxglove, which was helpful in the eighteenth century as a cure for
diseases like dropsy, is being used to treat some heart conditions nowadays.
There are quite a few old herbal remedies that have been produced into
modern-day medicines by large pharmaceutical companies. Although a lot of
them are synthetic and used by medical foundations, they are mostly derived
from natural products.
In the modern world, herbal medicine tends to take a back seat to the more
conventional medicines prescribed by medical professionals. This is
unfortunate, because the herbal medication has many health benefits to offer,
such as:
● It is more affordable and cost-effective than conventional medicine.
● Herbal medicine is obtainable without a prescription and often
stocked at local grocery stores.
● Natural medication has fewer side effects than conventional
medication.
● Most herbal medicines can strengthen the immune system as they
provide healing.
Chapter 1: What Everybody Ought to Know About
Antivirals

What Is a Virus?
A virus is a germ that can only live and regenerate inside a living organism.
They are so tiny that they cannot be seen by the naked eye. They are encased
in a protective protein coating that secures their genetic material. As viruses
do not eat, sleep, breathe, or even move by themselves, this DNA is basically
a set of instructions that helps them replicate once inside a cell.
Viruses are infectious and are known to cause diseases, such as warts, the
common cold, flu, measles, chickenpox, mumps, and rubella, to name a few.
They can also cause more serious illnesses, such as Ebola, smallpox, and
HIV.
Sometimes, the immune system can fight off a virus before it makes the host
sick.
How Viruses Spread
Even though a virus cannot move on its own, it can spread quickly when a
host passes it on unknowingly. For instance, you can get the flu virus if you
touch an infected person’s hand, or the latter sneezes or coughs in front of
you. It can also take place if you hold an object that they recently touched,
such as handrails or doorknobs, or shake their hand or sip out of their glass.
Viruses can also be passed on through saliva, sweat, and blood. If none of
them work, the virus can still float through the air and attach itself to
unsuspecting individuals.
A virus is not classified as a living thing and cannot replicate or spread on its
own. That is why it does not survive for very long outside a living host. Its
lifespan usually depends on its type. Some viruses can remain active for up to
seven days on its own; others are only active for 24 hours. Then, there are a
few viruses that die immediately when they are not attached to a host.
Viruses that spread through body fluids, such as blood or saliva, are examples
of that.
How a Virus Attacks Host Cells
The host is a living organism that the virus infects once it has been
transferred. The virus then targets a cell inside its host and, like a master
thief, it will break through the cell wall. Once it passes through, it will be able
to attack the cell’s nucleus, which is practically the core that’s responsible for
its functionality.
You can call the nucleus the mission control center of a cell. It is where its
DNA is copied in order to create new cells through a process known as
mitosis. It is also the perfect place for the virus to create exact replicas of
itself. If left undetected, it will overpower the cell’s mission control
completely and turn it into a virus replication center. As a result, the virus can
change the cell’s directive by adding its own set of instructions. Instead of
producing healthy cells, therefore, it will now generate more and more copies
of the virus.
When that one cell is too full, it will burst and deploy all the replicated
viruses into the host’[LA2]s system. In turn, they will infect other cells, and
so the process will start again, allowing the virus to replicate millions of
times.

Is a Virus Curable?
Most treatments for viral infections are developed to help alleviate or soothe
symptoms, such as fever, aches, pains, sniffs, coughs, itchy lumps, etc.,
caused by the viral infection. They do not actually cure the virus itself;
instead, the host’s immune system springs into action to fight off the virus.
When a person is dealing with a virus, a medical professional seldom
prescribes antibiotics, as they do not work in the treatment of viral infections.
Instead, they may recommend an immune booster, vitamins, and plenty of
fluids to help the body fight the infection.
The body builds immunity to some viruses after it has fought off the first
infection, such as mumps, measles, chickenpox, and rubella. After that, it is
very rare for anyone to suffer from the symptoms of these viruses again. The
only viruses that can infect people repeatedly are the ones that cause flu and
the common cold.
Although there are no definitive cures for viruses, there are vaccines and
various herbal remedies that can help prevent or treat viral infections.

Purpose of Antivirals
Antivirals are a form of medication developed to treat viral infections. There
are different types of antiviral medicine to treat all kinds of diseases brought
about by a virus. They are usually available with a prescription from a doctor.
Antivirals are designed to inhibit the development of a pathogen instead of
killing it off. Unlike antibiotics that destroy their targeted bacterial infection,
antiviral drugs fall under the medication class of antimicrobials, which
antibiotics, antiparasitic, and antifungal medications also form part of.
Antivirals should not be confused with virucides that are used to both kill and
deactivate virus particles. There are natural antivirals made from herbs,
plants, and trees, such as the popular echinacea and eucalyptus. Virucides,
however, are not medication. They are no different from disinfectants and
cleaners that usually contain chemicals to tidy up infected areas. These are
products such as bleach, Virkon, and Lysol, etc.

Usage of Antivirals
Antivirals can help alleviate the symptoms of an infection caused by a virus.
They also prevent it from replicating, which worsens the illness. The faster
the medicine can stop the virus from spreading in the host’s system, the faster
the infected person can avoid infecting others.
Antivirals target a specific enzyme called virions in the virus. They attach to
the virion, which inhibits the virus from multiplying.
Medical professionals tend to prescribe antivirals for a number of reasons,
including when someone has a compromised immune system. They may also
ask an individual to take such medication if they have a bad cold or flu that
they need to recover from quickly. A prescription is necessary as well to stop
spreading the virus to, say, a kid at school, a nurse who works in a nursing
home, a teacher, etc.
Antivirals work best if taken within the first 48 hours upon noticing the first
signs of a viral infection to potentially stop the symptoms from getting worse.
They will still be useful after the initial 48-hour window, but they may only
be able to alleviate and speed up recovery rather than stop the virus at this
point.
Some antivirals can be taken at any age, regardless of whether the patient is
an infant or a senior citizen. However, the drug should never be shared – it
should only be taken by the person it was prescribed for. The reason is that
doses vary due to a number of factors, such as age, weight, sex, and
symptoms. Usually, a person should complete the entire course prescribed by
the medical professional to get the full benefit of the medicine. Any leftover
medication should be destroyed and not taken in the future, as some antivirals
will not work on viruses that they are not developed to treat.
The side effects of antiviral products differ from person to person. They
mostly depend on how your body reacts to certain ingredients in the
medication. Some people will get nauseous while others will feel fine. This is
another reason why a person should never share their medication with
another person who may have a bad reaction to it. But for the most part, there
are very few reported incidents or side effects recorded in relation with
antivirals.

Synthetic vs. Herbal Antivirals


Viruses can cause harmful outbreaks not only to a person’s health, but can
end up costing companies, the economy, and various other institutes time and
money. For instance, an influenza outbreak in a developing country can have
near-fatal effects on the population, especially as these countries tend to have
mutated strains of various viruses that become resistant to antiviral drugs.
Antiviral drugs are also few and far between, as they are not readily available
or accessible.
In first-world countries, although antivirals can be obtained by going to a
local GP, they are also quite expensive. Synthetically created antivirals not
only come with quite a high cost, they can also have some harmful side
effects. These can include skin irritations, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, vomiting,
dizziness, and headaches, to name but a few.
While they can be quite effective when taken correctly and under the strict
supervision of a medical professional, there may still be long-term side
effects if used over a certain period of time, whereas most herbal antivirals
are easy to obtain, are affordable, and can be bought without a prescription.
They do not usually have the side effects that synthetically produced
antivirals do.
This makes a good alternative medication for anyone no matter where they
are in the world, especially as most herbal remedies are plant- or herb-based.
Most of these remedies have a few plant variants that can perform the same
function; thus, they can be made nearly anywhere in the world.
Never take herbal antivirals and prescription antivirals together, as they can
either boost the effects of each other or dilute them. If you are taking any
kind of herbal supplement, you should always let the doctor know
beforehand. Some herbal supplements can boost metabolism, which can
speed up the process of how the prescribed medication is broken down, thus
potentially making it less effective.
Although herbal antivirals are a lot safer than prescribed ones, they may be
less effective at times. Always check with a medical professional before
taking any medication, especially if symptoms seem to be getting worse.

Key Fact About Emerging Viruses


Emerging viruses are new infections that have recently started to infect the
population. Alternatively, they may have been around for some time but have
gained ground with more reported incidents of infection occurring on a wider
geographical scale. For instance, the past century saw the emergence of
Avian flu, human polyomavirus, and SARS-CoV, to name a few. Then, there
is the reemergence of dangerous strains of human influenza, Adenovirus 14,
and West Nile Virus, among others.
The world has become more connected, with traveling between destinations
becoming as easy as hopping on a plane, train, or boat. As a result, viruses
that were once confined to certain areas have an easy way to hitchhike across
the globe. What’s more is that as they travel, they have cabins full of new
potential hosts to infect. Some immigration control points have ways to scan
for potential viruses, but not all viruses have specific agent presentations.
Before long, there is a viral outbreak of diseases otherwise unheard of.
One of the most common pathogens that emerge are those that have been
passed on from animals to humans (zoonoses). The Middle East respiratory
syndrome, as well as Ebola and SARS, are transmitted by bats. The MEV, or
measles, as it is commonly known, is thought to have developed from the
interaction between cattle and humans. Rinderpest virus (RPV), which is
most commonly found in cattle, is a close relation of MEV. And of course
there’s Avian flu, which comes from birds.
Emerging viruses are a global problem in relation to public health and have
received a lot of attention in recent years. They create global epidemics that
are detrimental to health, safety, and food chains, which in turn affect trade
and industry.
But with the advancements in scientific research and various vaccinations,
they have managed to control, contain, and in some cases, eliminate, the
virus. One particular achievement was the elimination and control of
smallpox which, according to the World Health Organization (n.d.)., was
deemed completely eradicated in 1980.
Being vigilant about personal hygiene, such as washing your hands after
touching public guardrails, supermarket trolleys, and so on, helps prevent the
transmission of viruses. Always check for known diseases, etc., before going
on trips to foreign countries, and be aware of high-risk areas.
Chapter 2: The Truth About Herbal Antivirals and
Herbal Medicine

Why Information About Herbal Antivirals and


Herbal Medicine is Needed
As we work to a more self-sustainable, green world to save the planet and
help us live a healthier lifestyle, it is also time to turn back to nature to look
for solutions to various diseases and ailments.

Can Herbal Antivirals Completely Replace All


Modern Medication?
There are some diseases that herbal medicines just cannot fight or eradicate
on their own. Thus, there is still a need for stronger conventional medicines.
But that is not to say that, if used correctly, better researched, and developed
correctly, they may very well be able to replace some modern medication.
More and more people are turning to an alternative lifestyle and looking for
ways to live healthier. As such, they have started to turn to the more
traditional medications to supplement their health, relieve aches and pains,
and employ various other remedies.
As people start to question the impact modern medicine is having on society,
they are forcing research facilities to start looking deeper into the more
natural products. If our ancestors could take a plant and find ways to use it to
help heal the sick and wounded with their limited knowledge and resources,
surely scientists of today can tap into and enhance the power of traditional
medicine without degrading its herbal value and health benefits.

Alternative Medicine Statistics


According to the World Health Organization, herbal medicine has been
getting a lot more attention from the scientific world. For a long time, science
seemed to turn its back on traditional medications, with big pharma pushing
out one new synthetic drug after the other.
In 2003, the SARS outbreak was a wake-up call for scientists. The treatment
of the disease was taken from an ancient Chinese herbal medicine remedy. In
Africa, it has been estimated that 80 [LA3]percent of the population uses
traditional medicine in some form.
The global traditional medicine market is worth over $60 billion, with an
exponential growth rate each year.
Countries around the world, including the United States of America, India,
China, and Nigeria, alongside the World Health Organization, have been
pouring millions into traditional medicine research. Everyone is hoping that
the traditional medication can change the course of modern medication for a
healthier future utilizing natural resources.

Research and Evidence to Support Herbal Medicine


and Herbal Antivirals
As governments start to fund herbal medicine research, more studies on the
various uses, remedies, herbs, plants, flowers, bark, roots, etc., are being
explored by research facilities.
The goal is to find natural antivirals, antifungals, and antibacterial medicines
to enhance or even replace modern medicine as a healthier, more readily
available, and cheaper alternative. A lot of herbs and plants can be grown or
are already grown in countries that do not have access to conventional
medication.
Tapping into the natural power of this resource would ensure that everyone
has access to antivirals and other medications. Through proper research, the
quality of these products could perhaps be improved upon, allowing patients
to receive the full benefits of any potential healing properties these remedies
could provide.
Most of the research data has been done on the mainstream alternative
medicine products, such as garlic, calendula, licorice, St. John’s Wort, etc.
Scientists have come to realize both the healing properties of these natural
products, as well as their negative properties that can potentially cause side
effects.
Sadly, there is not a lot of evidential data at the moment to back up the power
of traditional herbs except for a long-standing history of their origins and
millions of faithful believers. But as a lot of countries are already on board
funding research studies, more will hopefully join. It is a huge task,
especially as there is a whole world of plants still to be discovered.
Chapter 3: The Most Common Herbal Antivirals
That Work Like Magic
A virus has to work its way through a person’s system or be fought off by the
immune system. They cannot be killed by herbal or conventional medicines,
but they can be stopped, slowed down, and have the symptoms alleviated
with antivirals. Instead of using allopathic treatments, try using natural
products that have the power of nature behind them. This is the same for
some minor bacterial infections that can be treated with natural antibiotics.

Types of Herbal Antibiotics and How They Are


Administered
Drug-resistant bacteria are on the rise, and even scientists are starting to look
towards the more natural remedies to help fight them.

Tips and Recommendations


● The first rule to follow before taking any medication is to avoid self-
diagnosing. When an antibiotic is needed, it generally means there is
an infection of some sort to be treated. Infections can turn nasty very
quickly and should first be checked by a medical professional.
● Do not give any medicine to infants or children before consulting
with a medical professional. Their developing systems react
differently to any type of drug, be it conventional or herbal.
● Always follow any instructions or recommendations carefully.

Powerful Herbal Antibiotics


● Apple Cider Vinegar
● Description
○ Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples and can
be found in vinegar form in most organic food and health
shops.
○ Apple cider vinegar is full of healthy vitamins, such as
vitamins A, B6, C, and E.
○ It also contains mineral salts, malic acid, thiamin, niacin, and
pantothenic acid. All powerful agents that combat bacterial
infections.
○ It is recommended to only use organic apple cider vinegar.

● Used for the treatment of:


○ Bacterial infections
○ Viral infections
○ Weight-loss issues
○ Type 2 diabetes (by lowering blood sugar levels)
○ Cardiovascular diseases
○ Hypertension
● Can be taken as:
○ A salad dressing

○ Tincture diluted with water


○ On its own
● Dosage and directions

○ As a salad dressing, sprinkle the apple cider vinegar to taste.


○ Taking it as a tincture, use 5 to 10 mL in a glass of water.
○ Take apple cider vinegar only once a day, as too much can
make you sick or erode tooth enamel. It must also be used
with caution when taking other medication.
● Astragalus Root
● Description

○ It is a powerful antibiotic.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Diabetes
○ Bacterial infection

○ Headaches
○ Muscle pain
○ Aches
○ Bloating
○ Earache
● Can be taken as:
○ Herb (to put over various food dishes)
○ Tincture
○ Poultice (to dress wounds)

○ Sinus

● Dosage
○ In tincture or capsule form, the directions should be followed.
○ As a wound poultice, dressing should be cleaned and
redressed twice daily.
● Clove
● Description

○ The clove comes from the clove tree and is the flower of the
tree.
○ Cloves are filled with minerals, fiber, and vitamins.
○ Vitamins found in cloves include vitamins C and K.
○ They are a rich source of manganese and are low in carbs.

○ They contain eugenol, which is a powerful antioxidant.


● Used for the treatment of:
○ Bacterial infections
○ Cancer
○ It can potentially support and improve liver health
○ Type 2 diabetes (by improving blood sugar levels)
○ Toothache
○ Stomach ulcers

○ Fungal and viral infections


● Can be taken as:

○ Herbal tea
○ Spice
○ Powder
● Dosage and directions
○ On food, they can be used two to three times a week.
Sprinkle crushed cloves into the food. Use it to taste.
○ As a tea, boil cloves in water for 5 to 10 minutes. The tea is
best consumed while it’s still hot. Serve it with a bit of
cinnamon and honey.
○ If used for toothache, whole cloves or clove oil works best.
This is applied directly to the problematic tooth.
○ As an antibiotic, it can be taken as an essential oil, tincture,
powder, or tea.

● Echinacea
● Description
○ Echinacea is a wildflower that is usually pink or purple in
color. It is also known as purple coneflower[LA4].
○ The flower and the roots of the echinacea plant are used in
herbal applications.
○ The plant contains phytochemicals that have been known to
fight off infections.
○ Echinacea has been known to boost the body’s level of
interferon, which helps prevent viruses from multiplying.

○ The plant also boosts the body’s T-cells, which are an


important part of the body’s immune system.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Bacterial and viral infections
● Can be taken as:
○ Tablet
○ Powder
○ Chewable tablets or gummies
● Dosage and directions

○ The dosage and duration of taking the tablets, powder,[LA5]


and gummy sweets will vary depending on the ailment being
treated.
○ Seek advice from a pharmacist, doctor, or herbalist.
● Garlic

● Description
○ Garlic has been around for centuries and was known to the
ancient Egyptians.
○ It is a bulbous vegetable that is well-known around the
globe.
○ Garlic is found in nearly every grocery store or fruit and veg
market. It is also found as an extract in many health shops.
○ When garlic is crushed, chopped, or even chewed raw, it
produces a compound called allicin. Allicin is a by-product
of alliin contained in a garlic clove. It is this compound that
has all the major health benefits offered by a clove of garlic.

● Used for the treatment of:


○ Bacterial infections
○ Heart disease
○ Cholesterol
○ Inflammation
○ High blood pressure

● Can be taken as:


○ Food ingredient (used in salads, dishes, or pickled)
○ Supplement

○ Poultice
● Dosage and directions
○ There is no standard recommended dosage for raw garlic.
○ Dosage and directions will differ per garlic or allicin
[LA6]supplement.

● Ginger
● Description
○ Ginger is the stem of the plant Zingiber officinale[LA7].
○ It has been used for over 5,000 years, and was once a
precious commodity and luxury spice.
○ Ginger contains phytonutrients that help boost metabolism
and fight off various bacterial and viral infections.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Bacterial infections

○ Viral infections
○ Nausea and vomiting
○ Headaches

○ Inflammation
○ Low immunity
● Can be taken as:
○ Lozenges
○ Tea
○ Food seasoning or spice

○ Health supplement
● Dosage and directions
○ Ginger is taken by mouth. There is no definitive dosage and
direction for taking ginger.
○ Supplements, gel capsules, lozenges, and tea come with
individual precautions and dosages.
● Goldenseal
● Description
○ Goldenseal is a medium- to small-sized sprawling plant. It
looks like a small palm tree and gets a single white flower
on each set of leaves.
○ This flower turns into a berry that eventually seeds.
○ The plant contains a chemical called berberine. This is the
substance that is responsible for the healing properties of the
plant.

● Used for the treatment of:


○ Bacterial infections
○ Digestive system
○ Skin problems, such as eczema, rashes, and ringworm
○ Gonorrhea, malaria, eye infections, bladder infections, and
pneumonia

● Can be taken as:


○ Dried powder or capsule form
○ Cream or salve

○ Tincture
● Dosage and directions
○ There are no definitive doses for goldenseal, but it is
recommended to follow the instructions for creams,
tinctures, and capsules.

● Honey (raw)
● Description
○ Honey is liquid gold, and made from the most amazing
creatures.
○ It is also one of the oldest known antibiotics. The ancient
Egyptians used it thousands of years ago to protect their skin
and as a natural antibiotic.
○ The high sugar content in honey has been known to inhibit
the growth of various bacterial strains.
○ The low pH of honey drains away the bacteria’s moisture it
needs to survive.
○ Parts of its antibacterial agents come from the hydrogen
peroxide that is found in raw honey.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Bacterial infections
○ Coughs and sore throats
○ Asthma

○ Diarrhea
○ Mouth ulcers
○ Stomach ulcers

○ Diabetes
○ High cholesterol
○ Menstrual cramps
○ Skin irritations

○ Burns
○ Dry eyes
○ Healing of wounds
○ Acne
○ Sinus
○ Hay fever
○ Gingivitis
○ Cold sores
○ Sunburn

● Can be taken as:

○ Raw
○ Paste
○ Wound dressing or poultice
○ Eye gel
● Dosage and directions
○ For cough or cold, take a spoonful of raw honey. Children
from ages 2 through 15 should take 2.5 to 10 mL of raw
honey before they go to sleep. Honey soothes and helps with
sleep.
○ Apply raw honey directly on a mouth ulcer, usually around
15 grams of it.
○ For wounds and burns, gauze should be soaked in honey and
then applied to the wound or burn. It can also be applied
directly to the wound or burn.

○ Eye drops or gel is usually used twice a day for no longer


than eight weeks at a time.
○ Honey can be used in conjunction with other herbs to
enhance the healing ability or add flavor.
● Horseradish
● Description
○ The horseradish looks like a white carrot, only the taste has
more of a bite to it and tastes a bit like a mix between a
radish and a turnip.
○ Its root has been used in natural medicine for many years, as
well as it being a food source.
○ It contains agents from volatile oils which have powerful
antibiotic properties.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Bacterial infections
○ Coughs and sore throats
○ Bronchitis
○ Sinus
○ Urinary tract infection

○ Skin irritations
○ Kidney stones
○ Wound healing
● Can be taken as:

○ Tincture
○ Fresh whole vegetables or grated in a salad
○ Poultice
● Dosage and directions
○ Eating 20 grams of fresh root a day is recommended for
adults.
○ The tincture average dose is 2 to 3 teaspoons in fresh water
[LA8]a day.
○ As a wound poultice dressing, it should be refreshed and
reapplied at least twice a day.

● Oregano
● Description
○ Oregano has its origins in the Mediterranean, where it is a
favorite Italian herb.

○ This herb has been a favorite herb to both cook with and
harvest for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
○ It is a member of the mint family and like mint, has many
medicinal qualities, one of these being that it is used as an
antibiotic.
○ There is a compound in oregano called carvacrol, which has
been known to have antibacterial qualities.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Diabetes
○ Bacterial infection
○ Insect repellent

○ Headaches
○ Muscle pain
○ Aches
○ Bloating
○ Earache
○ Intestinal parasites
○ Colds and sore throats
○ Toothache

○ Fatigue
● Can be taken as:

○ Herb (to put over various food dishes)


○ Tincture
○ Poultice (to dress wounds)
● Dosage and directions
○ There are no definitive dosages or directions for using
oregano. As an herb, it is quite safe to eat.
○ In tincture or capsule form, the directions should be
followed.
○ As a wound poultice, dressing should be cleaned and
redressed twice daily.
● Rosemary
● Description

○ Rosemary is an herb that is used to spice meat and


vegetables[LA9].
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Inflammation
○ Bacterial infection
○ Viral infection
● Can be taken as:
○ Tablet
○ Herb

● Dosage and directions


○ The dosage and duration of taking the tablets will vary
depending on the ailment being treated.
○ Seek advice from a pharmacist, doctor, or herbalist.

● Turmeric
● Description
○ Turmeric is a cousin of the ginger family Zingiberaceae
[LA10]and originates from Southeast Asia.
○ It comes from an herbaceous perennial plant called the
Curcuma longa[LA11].
○ The orange-yellow color of turmeric is from a compound
called curcumin, which is what gives turmeric its healing
prowess. It is also what makes it a powerful antibiotic.
● Used for the treatment of:

○ Bacterial infections
○ Inflammation
○ Brain health
○ Heart disease
○ Cancer
○ Arthritis
○ Depression
● Can be taken as:
○ Used in foods and beverages

○ Herbal supplement (has an extra impact if taken with


BioPerine)
● Dosage and directions
○ Turmeric is effective at around 1 gram a day.

The Most Commonly Used Antivirals


In conventional medication, there are three common antivirals that are given
to treat some viruses. There are vaccines for quite a few viruses that can
protect against infection.

Common Antivirals that Require a Prescription:


● RAPIVAB[LA12]
○ It is also known as peramivir.
○ It can be used by patients two years and older.

○ It is used to treat type A and type B influenza[LA13].


○ Dosage and directions of use will vary per doctor's prescription.
● Relenza
○ It is also known as zanamivir.
○ It is used to treat uncomplicated influenza.
○ It can be used by patients seven years and older.
○ Dosage and directions will be according to the direction of a
medical professional.
● Tamiflu

○ It is also known as oseltamivir phosphate.


○ There is a generic version of the medicine.
○ It can be used in patients from as young as two weeks old and
up.
○ It is used to treat acute uncomplicated influenza type A and type
B that has not persisted for more than two days.
○ A medical professional will prescribe a recommended dose and
desired usage for the medicine.
The Most Readily Available Herbal Antivirals
● Calendula

● Description
○ Calendula is a beautiful orange flower that is in the same
family as marigolds.
○ They are also known as pot marigolds and have been used
for generations as an alternative treatment for various
ailments.
○ It is gentle enough to use on babies.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections
○ Inflammation
○ Muscle spasms
○ Menstruation pain

○ Oral health
○ Wounds

○ Hemorrhoids
○ Ulcers
○ Skin irritations
● Can be taken/used as:
○ Soap
○ Moisturizing cream
○ Bath soak
○ Essential oil
○ Gel

○ Toothpaste
○ Food source
○ Health supplement
○ Tincture

○ Tea
○ Poultice
○ Salve
● Dosage and directions
○ It can be ingested as a supplement, or used as a tea, tincture,
or toothpaste.
○ As a health supplement, the recommended dosage and
directions on the pack should be followed.
○ When used as a salve or poultice, apply to the infected area
and reapply as necessary.

● Echinacea
● Description
○ Echinacea is a powerful antiviral, as well as an antibiotic,
plant.

○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in this


chapter for details on what it treats, how it is administered,
as well as what dosages and directions are recommended.
● Elderberry
● Description
○ Elderberry comes from a tree variety call the Sambucus tree.
It is a flowering plant that develops small flowers called
elderflowers and the berries eventually form in tight clusters
and have a blue/black color.
○ The berries need to be cooked before they are eaten, but the
flowers can be eaten either raw or cooked.
○ There are many different varieties of the elderberry plant.

○ Although they can be used as an herbal application, they


need to be used with caution and the instructions followed
closely.
○ If you have never made your own herbal tea or tincture
before, it is best to buy the herb from a health shop.
○ The berries and flowers can be eaten, as they are low in
calories, rich in nutrients, vitamin C, rich in anthocyanins,
and flavonols.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections

○ Bacterial infections
○ Depression
○ Inflammation
● Can be taken as:
○ Raw
○ Tea
○ Dietary supplements
○ Tinctures
● Dosage and directions

○ All directions for the use of elderberry in any form must be


followed closely.
○ It is not recommended for infants and children under the age
of 16.
● Garlic

● Description
○ Garlic is a powerful antiviral and antibiotic bulbous
vegetable.
○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in this
chapter for details on what it treats, how it is administered,
as well as what dosages and directions are recommended.
● Ginger
● Description
○ Ginger is a powerful antiviral and antibiotic that comes from
the stem of Zingiber officinale.

○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in this


chapter for details on what it treats, how it is administered,
as well as what dosages and directions are recommended.
● Green Tea
● Description
○ Green tea is an herbal tea that originates from China.
○ It is made from the leaves and buds from the Camellia
sinensis[LA14] plant. Unlike most Chinese teas, it does not
undergo an oxidation process or withering.

○ Green tea is used in many applications today, as it is full of


natural nutrients and antioxidants.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections
○ Heart disease
○ Migraines and tension headaches

○ Weight issues
○ Type 2 diabetes
○ Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea
○ Herbal Supplement
○ Skincare creams
○ Essential oil

● Dosage and directions


○ There are no definitive directions for the use of green tea.

○ Always read the pack that any supplements come in, in order
to take the correct dose.
● Honey (raw)
● Description
○ Honey is a powerful antiviral, as well as an antibiotic, and
has been used as a cure for centuries.
○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in this
chapter for details on what it treats, how it is administered,
as well as what dosages and directions are recommended.
● Licorice

Description
Licorice comes from the root of a plant called
Glycyrrhiza glabra [LA15]or licorice root. The plant
is a perennial legume that originates from Southern
Europe and parts of Asia, as well as the Middle East.
It has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy in
the treatment of various illnesses.
Although licorice has a lot of health benefits, it is
also not safe for everyone to take.
Useful for:
○ People with high blood pressure
○ People taking medication for heart rhythms
○ People who are taking corticosteroids
○ People who are on diuretics
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections

○ Sore throats
○ Low blood pressure
○ Skin irritations, infections, inflammation, and eczema
○ Stomach problems
○ Stomach ulcers
○ Hepatitis C
● Can be taken as:
○ Candy
○ Capsules

○ Tea
○ Liquid extract
● Dosage and directions
○ Although licorice can be enjoyed as a candy, it is advisable
not to have too much, as it can cause the runs.

○ Various licorice treatments will have different dosages


depending on the ailment it is being used to treat.
● Olive Leaf
● Description
○ The extract of olive leaf is just as the name describes; it is
from an olive plant.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections
○ Cancer

○ Central nervous system


○ Digestive system healthy
○ Herpes

○ Type 2 diabetes
○ Weight issues
○ High cholesterol
○ High blood pressure
● Can be taken as:
○ Supplement

○ Essential oil
● Dosage and directions
○ The recommended daily dose of olive is 500 to 1,000
milligrams that must be broken down throughout the day.
● St. John’s Wort

● Description
○ There are many tales about St. John’s Wort, as it is a favorite
addition to witch’s brews in folklore.
○ St. John’s Wort is a very green plant with bright-yellow
flowers that goes back to the time of the ancient Greeks.
● Used for the treatment of:
○ Viral infections
○ Depression
○ Bruises

○ Wounds
○ Burns
● Can be taken as:

○ Tablets
○ Tincture
○ Tea
● Dosage and directions
○ It is highly recommended that you talk to an herbalist,
homeopath, or medical professional before taking St. John’s
Wort. Even though it is a natural product, it can have some
side effects.
○ No more than 300 mg three times a day should be taken.
Chapter 4: Who Else Wants to Strengthen Their
Immune System?

The Immune System


The immune system is the first responder when an infectious organism
manages to invade the body’s systems. The immune system consists of
various tissues, organs, and most cells that each play an important role in
attacking any foreign organism that invades the body with an intent to cause
harm.
White blood cells are like the foot patrol police; they circulate throughout the
body on the lookout for any foreign organisms, like germs, that should not be
there. Leukocytes are another name for the white blood cells and they are
divided into two main types.
● Lymphocytes: These are the cells that seek out and recognize any
organisms that may have attacked the system before. This helps the
body get rid of unwanted guests or intruders.
● Phagocytes: These are the cells that eradicate the intruders, or rather,
consume them.
Leukocytes are called the lymphoid organs, and they are stored in all parts of
the body; that is why lymphoid tissue can be found throughout the system.
The lymphoid tissue, lymph nodes, and leukocytes are all related.[LA16]
As the immune system patrols the body, if any pathogens are detected, it
sends out signals to the rest of its team. Like any good response team, more
defensive cells are instantly dispatched to where the invader has been located.
Together, these cells work to fight off the pathogen.
The immune system cells are also able to store the data of the current
pathogen in order to quickly identify it should the pathogen invade the
system again. Just like the police have a criminal database, the immune
system has a pathogen recognition system. The immune system is able to
recognize any past pathogen invaders and catalogue new ones.
Antigens
An antigen is the scientific name or the medical name for the pathogen that
enters the body and triggers the immune system into action. The antigen is
the infection that causes disease and the immune system to produce proteins.
These proteins are what help the immune system stave off the virus or
bacterial infection.

Antibodies
The proteins that are produced during an immune system response are called
antibodies. When the system is fighting off a pathogen, or rather, antigen, it
has to be able to distinguish between healthy cells and infected ones. These
antibodies are specifically designed to bind with cells that have certain
markers hat identify as the antigen.
Once the antibody has determined that the cell’s markers match up perfectly
to that of the antigen it is looking for, it will bind with that cell. It then
destroys the unhealthy cell(s).

Macrophages
A macrophage is found in the tissue of major organs. When the body is not
attacking a foreign invader, these cells are usually stationary ones that lie in
wait to be called into action.
When the body has an immune system response, they are the white blood
cells that will chew up and ingest the antigen that has been destroyed by the
antibodies. They are like the cleanup crew that makes sure the antigen is no
longer floating around in the system.

Lymphocytes
There are two main types of lymphocyte white blood cells that play an
important role in identifying, triggering an immune response, and destroying
the pathogen. These are:
B Cells
Bone marrow stem cells are used to make B cells; these are the antibodies.
The body produces them when there is an immune system response. Once the
T cells have identified the antigen, the B cells get designed to target that
specific pathogen.
T Cells
The T cells are the cells that find the invasive pathogen, identify it, bind to it,
and alert the system to trouble. Bone marrow stem cells or the liver are used
to produce T cells.
There are three main types of T cells:
Cytotoxic T cells destroy the antigen-infected cell. It does this by binding to
the bad cell and then making it burst open. The process of binding to a cell
and bursting it open is called lysing.
The cytotoxic T cell is also called the killer T cell. It can be isolated from
other white blood cells. These are the cells that scientists extract, modify, and
use to treat patients with various diseases, such as cancer.
Helper T cells prompt the other T cells into action and call for the production
of the B cells.
Suppressor T cells ensure the body’s immune system is responding to a
pathogen and not the body’s own antigens. They stop the body from attacking
itself, which prevents autoimmune disease.

Phagocytes
These are the white blood cells that make sure the body is free of harmful
bacteria, viruses, toxins, foreign bodies, and poisons. They get rid of the cells
the T cells have destroyed, as they are responsible for ridding the body of
cells that are dead or dying.
Macrophages are phagocytes, which are crucial to the fight against infection
and getting rid of any cells that could potentially re-infect the body.

Memory Cells
The memory cells contain the information about the various antigens that are
attacking or have attacked the body before. These cells are responsible for the
way the body fights off the pathogen, by supplying the information needed
for the body to create the correct antibody. They are like the body’s own
CDC and science laboratory all rolled into one.

The Formation of the Immune System


Our immune system is learned over time and is formed as our body gets sick
or is introduced to some form of pathogen. Babies are born with a little bit of
immunity that is passed to them by their mother in order to protect them
during their developing stages. They also get a lot of their antibodies from
their mother’s milk during the infant stage of development. This helps their
body cope while their immune system starts to develop.

Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune disease occurs when the body mistakes part of itself as a
foreign body and attacks. This is usually an organ, like the pancreas in
diabetes, the skin, and even joints. It does this by sending autoantibodies to
fight off what it thinks is an intruder.
Some autoimmune responses can affect the whole body, causing diseases like
systemic lupus erythematosus.

The Importance of a Strong Immune System


Without a healthy immune system, your body would not be able to cope with
day-to-day germs, animals, and even coming into contact with other people.
You would be constantly sick, as your body would have no defense over the
slightest little bug.
We need a healthy immune system in order to go about our daily lives and
function normally. The immune system takes care of us on the inside and
ensures our body is able to function as it should, free of harmful germs.

Immune System Boosters


Nature has safe, natural substances that can boost your immune system and
keep it healthy. But it is not only herbs that can boost your immune system.
There are other natural ways, including:

Supplements
● Vitamin C
● It encourages the body to produce more white blood cells.
● As it is a good source of eliminating free radicals from the body; it
provides support for the white blood cells.
● Vitamin E
● Vitamin E is well-known for its cell regeneration properties.
● It gives the immune system a boost and protects cells from free
radicals.
● Vitamin B6
● Vitamin B6 is a vitamin that helps the body make blood cells.
● Vitamin D
● Vitamin D is needed in the body to help with both adaptive and
innate immune response modulation.

Meditation, Massage, and Relaxation


● Meditation
● Stress has a negative impact on the immune system. One of the best
ways to get rid of stress and get your mind into a better place is
through meditation.
● Massage
● Stress causes knots in your muscles. A way to release these knots and
tension is with a good massage.
● Back and neck massage are the most effective.
● A foot massage relieves a lot of tension, as your feet carry the full
weight of your body.
● Relaxation
● Essential oils can be used in a steamy bath, which is great to help
with relaxation after a stressful day.

Physical Exercise
● Walking
● Walking is one of the best exercises, as it gets you out into the fresh
air and works the muscles, as well as gets the heart pumping. As the
blood pumps through your system, it stimulates the immune system.
● Light exercise
● Exercise is good for the immune system, as it gets the immune
system working correctly.
● Never overdo exercise, as this can have a negative effect on the
immune system.
● Pilates is great to work on your core and help regulate your
breathing. This, in turn, oxygenates all your cells.
● Yoga helps to balance your mind, body, and soul. It is a good way to
learn various relaxing techniques to help stave off stress and anxiety.
It also encourages muscle growth and supports all-around good
health.

Good, Quality Sleep


● Lack of sleep can have a negative effect on your immune system.
● You should get at least 7 to 8 hours of good, quality sleep.
● Do not keep any devices, such as TVs, laptops, or other devices, in your
room.
● If you use a mobile phone for an alarm, turn the light down and mute any
social media or instant messaging applications.
● Read a book before going to sleep.
● Make sure the room is dark and there are no distracting noises.
● Use the correct pillow that supports your head.

Do Not Skip Meals - Especially Breakfast


Modern-day times are very busy for humans. We are always rushing off to
work, getting kids to school, carpools, early morning meetings, and so on.
Most times, a person has no chance to breathe, let alone stop for a decent
breakfast and lunch, too. That is why many adults and students often skip it,
opting for a cup of coffee instead.
For your body to stay in a healthy rhythm, breakfast is a very important part
of starting the day. But coffee or even herbal tea is not enough to kick-start
[LA17]your metabolism for the day. Too many skipped meals during the day
will start to have an impact on the immune system.
Skipped meals means that the body has to break down different fats,
glycogen, etc., to feed the body. It breaks these down to keep the brain,
muscles, and red blood cells fed and to give the body energy. With
nourishment at a low and feeding the major systems, other parts start to
suffer. The immune system starts to take a strain, which can start to lead to
health issues, such as blood pressure problems, type 2 diabetes, and insulin
resistance.
The reason why breakfast is the most important meal of the day is that while
you are asleep, your system is not. It is busy working away, repairing organs,
muscles, cells, and filing away the day’s memories. That is why, when a
person is sick or unhealthy, they are so tired. The body needs to shut down to
repair itself and that is why you sleep so much when ill. But, when you wake
up, you need to replace lost nutrients, and food, as well as kick-start your
metabolism
Your body needs enough food, nutrients, and energy to get a person through
the entire 24 hours. That is why we eat food to survive and remain healthy.
But if you do not have time for food but still want to maintain a healthy
balance, try an herbal smoothie. They can be frozen and made in advance. All
you have to do is place it in the fridge to defrost the night before. You can
have breakfast and lunch on the run.
Herbal Immune-Boosting Smoothies
All the smoothies below can be frozen for up to one week. The amounts
listed are only a guideline; mostly mix for taste, and to sweeten, use some
raw honey or a small apple, banana, or cherries.
Cilantro Smoothie Laced with Jalapeno
Not only is this smoothie a good immune system booster, but the jalapeno is
good for aches and pains. The cilantro is a great energy booster and together
they will wake you up as they stimulate the blood flow.
● Ingredients:
○ ½ a lime
○ ½ cup of kale
○ ½ cup of cucumber
○ 2 cups of purified water
○ 4 to 5 sprigs of fresh cilantro
○ ½ fresh jalapeno pepper that has been seeded
● Puree them all together for a perfect breakfast. Still, there is nothing
stopping you from having this smoothie for lunch when you feel you
need an extra boost.
Basil Smoothie with Goji Berries and Raspberries
This smoothie can have walnuts added to it, baby tomatoes, or watermelon.
But as it is, it contains goji berries, which are a superfood that pack a
powerful immune-boosting punch. They are rich in vitamins C and A, as well
as iron, which is essential for the process of cell renewal. By adding the
magic of basil, which is well-known for its bacteria-fighting properties, you
have a superfood smoothie.
● Ingredients:
○ ½ cup of fresh or frozen raspberries
○ 1 to 2 cups of pineapple or orange juice (whichever you prefer)
○ 3 to 4 fresh leaves of basil (you can put more if you want to but
remember, basil can become a bit overpowering)
○ 1½ cups coconut water
○ 1 cup purified water
● You can add a bit of mint to this mix to give the smoothie a bit of a twist.
It is ideal for both breakfast and lunch.
Mango, Sage, and Blackberries
Sage is an herb that fights fungus, viruses, and bacteria. It is filled with a
strong natural antibiotic and antiseptic called thujone. Blackberries are high
in vitamin C and full of flavanols that are well-known antioxidants. Mixing in
mango not only gives the smoothie a great tropical, sweet taste, but also adds
extra vitamin C and A.
● Ingredients:
○ ½ cup fresh or frozen blackberries
○ 1 cup orange juice
○ 2 to 3 fresh leaves of sage
○ 1½ cups of coconut water
○ 2 cups purified water
○ 1½ cups fresh mango
● A small, juicy red apple will add to the taste, texture, and give it a boost.
Wake up your taste buds with this exotic smoothie in the morning and
kick-start your metabolism.
Ginger and Carrot Smoothie Topped with Turmeric
Ginger truly has many magical qualities about it. Not only is it excellent with
sushi, but it is also a powerful antibacterial. It has been used through the ages
to cure anything from nausea to headaches. Carrots are high in vitamin C and
potassium, which aid in boosting the immune system, while turmeric adds to
the power of this smoothie’s immune-boosting punch.
● Ingredients:
○ ½ cup fresh orange juice
○ ½ cup mango juice
○ 1½ cups coconut water
○ 1 pinch salt
○ 1 pinch cayenne pepper
○ 1 teaspoon freshly chopped or grated ginger
● Mix all the ingredients together for either breakfast or a healthy,
refreshing lunch that will not leave you feeling bloated and tired.
Mint and Swiss Chard Smoothie
This smoothie is packed with superfoods to boost the immune system and
stave off the common cold and other bugs.
● Ingredients:
○ ½ cup swiss chard
○ 1 to 2 cups pineapple or orange juice (whichever you prefer)
○ 3 to 4 fresh mint leaves (you can put more to taste)
○ 2 cups coconut milk
○ 1 cup purified water
● Puree them all together for breakfast, lunch, or both.

Herbs that Strengthen the Immune System


There are herbs that can be taken as a tea, tincture, or in tablet form as a
supplement to boost the immune system.
● Andrographis
● Description
● Andrographis is an extract from the Andrographis tree.
■ It originates from Southeast Asia and is a well-known
herb that has been used in China for generations.
● How it works
○ Andrographis stimulates the immune system with a
substance called bitter constituents.
● Can be taken as:
○ Supplement in tablet form.
● Astragalus
● Description
○ Astragalus comes from the Astragalus propinquus[LA18]. It
is a green plant with palm-like leaves.
○ The roots are most useful in herbal medicine.
● How it works
○ It protects the cells against the damage free radicals can
cause.
● Can be taken as:
○ Tincture
○ Powder
○ Soup
● Echinacea
● Description
○ Echinacea is a powerful antiviral, as well as an antibiotic,
plant.
○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in Chapter 3
for details on what it treats, how it is administered, as well
as what dosages and directions are recommended.
● Elderberry
● Description
○ Elderberry comes from a tree variety call the Sambucus tree.
They have small, white edible flowers and clusters of small,
blue/black edible (when cooked) berries.
○ See the section on The Most Readily Available Herbal
Antivirals in Chapter 3 for details on what it treats, how it is
administered, as well as what dosages and directions are
recommended.
● Onion
● Description
○ Onions may not be herbs, but they are also used to flavor
foods.
○ They have very powerful immune-boosting properties.
● How it works
○ They are filled with vitamin C, selenium, zinc, sulfur
compounds, and quercetin. All these nutrients are known to
be efficient immune boosters and antioxidants.
● Can be taken as:
○ Raw in foods
○ Powder
■ Salt
● Pomegranates
● Description
○ Pomegranate seeds have been known for many years as a
powerful antioxidant and excellent source of vitamin C.
○ They are a powerful immune-boosting food.
● How it works
○ They are filled with vitamin C, which is a strong antioxidant
that has numerous health benefits. One of those benefits is
boosting and supporting the immune system by helping the
body to absorb precious nutrients.
● Can be taken as:
○ Raw
○ Powder
○ Salt
○ Supplement
○ Essential oils
○ Bath soaks
○ Tea
○ Fruit juices
● Turmeric
● Description
○ Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is
what gives turmeric its healing prowess and yellow color. It
is also what makes it a powerful antibiotic.
○ See the section on Powerful Herbal Antibiotics in Chapter 3
for details on what it treats, how it is administered, as well as
what dosages and directions are recommended.
Chapter 5: Little-Known Ways Herbal Medicine
Can Cure Common Ailments
There are quite a few illnesses, aches, pains, and various ailments that herbal
remedies can help to relieve. If your symptoms are not too severe, you may
want to give them a try. Still, it is advisable to speak to an herbalist,
homeopath, or medical professional before taking any alternative remedy or
supplement, especially if you have other prescriptions.

Common Ailments and Herbal Medicine


Let’s just be clear about the fact that most health issues can have more than
one herbal remedy. There are so many plants out there, so it is not surprising
if two or five options come up when you look for alternative medication for a
specific ailment. That is a good thing, since not every herb may be available
where you are at the moment. If you can get your hands on one of the many
natural remedies that you will see below, then you have better chances of
alleviating your condition.
The thing is, you should only try one remedy at a time, and give it at least
two to five days to work. If the first solution you have tried has no effect, you
must seek the advice of a medical professional before trying the next one on
the list. A likely reason is that most alternative treatments are useful for mild
ailments. They will not work on severe conditions, so you cannot rely on
them to cure serious health problems that you may or may not know you
possess.
You should never mix herbal medicines, either, assuming that the
combination will produce a stronger, better effect. It is important to treat
these remedies as you would do with any other medication. Take them with
care and do not overuse them. Otherwise, you may deal with more symptoms
than necessary.
These remedies have been selected mainly for adults and should not be given
to children without checking with their pediatrician first.

Acid Reflux and Heartburn


Heartburn is that terrible feeling of a fire in the pit of your stomach, chest,
and liver area.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids flow up, leaving a burning sensation
in the throat.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Licorice (Deglycyrrhizinated licorice - DGL)
● Can be taken as:

○ Liquid
○ Tablet
○ Chewable Tablet
○ Powder
○ Tea
● Directions:
○ No more than 5 g should be taken per day.
● Precautions:
○ Never exceed the daily recommended usage.

○ People who have high blood pressure or potassium levels or


are taking heart medication should not take licorice.
Marshmallow Root

● Can be taken as:


○ Tea
○ Powder
○ Lozenges
● Directions:
○ Mix 1 teaspoon of powder in a cup of warm water. Drink
two cups per day.
○ Tea can be drunk throughout the day at four-hour intervals.
○ Always read the directions for lozenges.
● Precautions:
○ Never exceed the daily consumption limit, as natural
remedies can produce side effects if not used correctly.
○ Check with a physician before administering marshmallow
root to infants and children who suffer from acid reflux.

Acne
Acne refers to an outbreak of pimples that mainly affects the facial and back
areas. It can also be found on other parts of the body, such as arms, legs,
chest, and buttocks.
Most teenagers and women going through menopause may suffer from acne.
Recommended Herbal Treatment

Honey and Cinnamon


● Can be used as:
○ Face mask
● Directions:
○ Mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of honey into
a paste.
○ Thoroughly cleanse the face before using the mixture.
○ Apply the mask all over the infected area (avoid the eyes).
○ Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it off.

● Precautions:
○ If you get the solution in your eyes, gently flush them out
with cold water or cow’s milk.
○ Use the mask two to three times a week.
Green Tea

● Can be taken/used as:


○ Tea
○ Face scrub
● Directions:
○ Green tea as an herbal drink promotes good skin health from
the inside. Drink it once or twice a day and use honey rather
than sugar to flavor the tea.
○ Make the tea as you normally do but allow it to steep for up
to 5 minutes. Drain the tea and let it cool. Apply it to the
skin with a cotton swab and leave it on for around 2 to 5
minutes before rinsing it off.
● Precautions:
○ Drinking too much green tea can cause nausea and upset
stomach.
○ Test the tea mixture on a small patch of skin before applying
it all over to ensure that you are not allergic to it.

Back Pain
Back pain is one of the worst kinds of pain to suffer from as it limits a
person’s range of motion. Lower back pain is the most common problem
related to this area due to the way people sit at a desk, where they spend most
of their working day.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Capsaicin
■ Can be used as:

● Cream
● Patch
■ Directions:
● Apply the cream several times a day or when necessary
to the affected area.
● Place the patch at the source of the pain and follow the
directions on the package properly.
■ Precautions:
● Always wash your hands when you finish using the
cream.

● Avoid getting the cream in the eyes or mouth.


Devil’s Claw
● Can be taken as:
○ Herbal extract
● Directions:

○ The recommended daily dose is 0.6 to 2.4 g. Divide and


consume it in parts throughout the day.
● Precautions:
○ Never exceed the daily limit.

○ Do not take the full daily allowance all at once.


○ Do not take devil’s claw for more than one year without
consulting a doctor.

Cold or Flu

Some of its symptoms include sore throat, runny nose, and body aches.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Echinacea
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea
○ Tincture
○ Pressed juice
● Directions:

○ Drink 6 ounces of tea three times a day.


○ Take the recommended dose of tincture as written on the
package.
○ Get 6 mm[LA19] of pressed juice a day.
● Precautions:
○ You should not take it for more than 10 consecutive days.

Constipation
The symptoms of constipation include bloating, sore stomach, passing hard
stools that cause pain, strained bowel movements, and not passing more than
two stools a week.

Recommended Herbal Treatments


Chamomile tea
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea

● Directions:
○ Drink a nice, hot cup of chamomile tea after meals and
before bed.
● Precautions:
○ Limit herbal teas to no more than three cups a day.
Dandelion
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea
● Directions:

○ Drink a cup of dandelion tea after each meal.


● Precautions:
○ Limit herbal teas to no more than three cups a day.

Peppermint tea
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea
● Directions:
○ Drink a cup of peppermint tea after each meal.
● Precautions:

○ Limit herbal teas to no more than three cups a day.

Earache
Pain in the ear is experienced when there is a bacterial infection internally or
externally.

Recommended Herbal Treatment


Olive Oil
● Can be used as:
○ Drops
● Directions:
○ Warm the olive oil to a moderate temperature.
○ Use one to two drops through a dropper into the sore ear.
● Precautions:

○ Do not use more than two drops of olive oil per ear.
○ Do not put cotton wool in the ear.
○ Make sure the oil is not too hot. Otherwise, it will damage
the ear.
Ginger
● Can be used as:

○ Drops
● Directions:
○ Warm ginger in a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, almond oil,
etc.).
○ Using a dropper, apply one to two drops into the sore ear.

● Precautions:
○ Do not use more than two drops per ear.
○ Do not put cotton wool in the ear.
○ Make sure the oil is not too hot. Otherwise, it will damage
the ear.

Eczema
Eczema usually comes with red, itchy, or inflamed skin that causes intense
discomfort for the individuals who live with the condition.

Recommended Herbal Treatment


Evening Primrose Oil
● Can be taken/used as:
○ Capsule
○ Essential oil
● Directions:
○ Take the recommended dose for the capsule as marked on
the bottle.

○ Using a dropper, apply a few drops of essential oil onto the


skin. Use a clean applicator to spread it on the inflamed
areas.
● Precautions:
○ Try not to use your hands to rub the oil into the inflamed
areas, as it can make the oil ineffective. Instead, gently rub
the skin with a soft, clean cloth.
○ Wash your hands thoroughly and try not to scratch the
inflamed parts of the skin. Your nails contain all sorts of
germs that can worsen the irritation.
Colloidal Oatmeal
● Can be used as:
○ Powder
○ Cream
● Directions:

○ The powder must be added to a warm bath. Submerge your


body in the solution for 10 to 15 minutes to cover the
inflamed areas.
○ Pat – do not rub – the skin dry when you are done bathing.
○ Apply the colloidal oatmeal cream to the skin.
● Precautions:
○ Try not to use your hands to rub the oil into the inflamed
areas, as it can make the oil ineffective. Instead, you should
use an applicator.
○ Keep all applicators clean and sterile.

Eye Dryness and Itchiness


Dry, itchy eyes can be caused by dust, change in the season, and strain.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Mint
● Can be used as:

○ Eyewash
● Directions:
○ Use about 10 to 14 fresh mint leaves.
○ Place the leaves in a water-filled saucepan and bring it to a
boil for about 2 to 5 minutes.
○ Leave the solution to cool down.
○ Use a cotton swab or clean cloth and soak it in the solution
before placing it over the eyes. Leave the cloth for a few
minutes and then reapply it with fresh solution. Gently pat
the eyes dry when you are done.

○ For a quick wash, use the same method but with an eyewash
tub to flush the eyes out.
● Precautions:
○ Always pat the eyes rather than rub them dry.
Bilberry
● Can be taken as:
○ Powder
○ Capsule
○ Tea

○ Raw
● Directions:
○ Take 160 mg of bilberry in either powdered or capsule form
twice a day.
○ Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of mashed berries to create a tea. Have
no more than two cups a day.
○ Consume no more than 20 to 60 grams of raw bilberry a day.
● Precautions:
○ The maximum limit of bilberry consumption is 220 mg per
day. This includes tea, capsules, and powders.

General Malaise / Fatigue


Fatigue can be caused by many things, such as dealing with stress, not getting
enough sleep, and worrying too much.
Recommended Herbal Treatment

Siberian Ginseng
● Can be taken as:
○ Liquid (Tincture)
○ Capsules
○ Tea
○ Powder
● Directions:
○ Use ginseng tea as recommended on the pack.

○ The application and doses will vary depending on the


severity of the condition, as well as the manufacturer of the
product.
● Precautions:
○ Take the product as prescribed. It can lead to muscle spasms
and increased heartrate if the dosage is increased.
○ Ginseng should not be taken by anyone who takes blood
thinners or has a heart or autoimmune condition.
Cordyceps
● Can be taken as:
○ Powder
○ Capsule
○ Liquid
● Directions:

○ The directions for use change depending on the weight, age,


and severity of the condition.
● Precautions:
○ Speak to a medical professional for the best results.

Hay Fever / Allergies


Hay fever is caused by the change in the seasons, high pollen count, animal
fur, and many other factors. It is usually characterized by bouts of sneezing,
but it can also affect the eyes, making them watery and swollen.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Elder Flower

● Can be taken as:


○ Tea
● Directions:
○ Steep the tea for 3 to 5 minutes and drink it while it’s still
hot.

● Precautions:
○ Do not drink too much of the tea during the day. Limit
consumption to 3 to 4 cups per day.
Anise
● Can be taken as:
○ Tea
● Directions:
○ Steep the tea for 3 to 5 minutes and add a bit of honey to it,
especially if you do not like the taste of licorice.

○ Tea is best drunk hot.


● Precautions:
○ Limit consumption to 3 to 4 cups per day.

○ Anise may cause an upset stomach if overused.

Headaches
Headaches can be described as a dull ache in the temples or at the top of the
head. They can be caused by lack of nourishment, dehydration, and lack of
sleep, to name a few reasons.

Recommended Herbal Treatment


Peppermint
● Can be taken/used as:
○ Tea
○ Essential oil

● Directions:
○ Brew 10 to 12 fresh peppermint leaves for 5 minutes. Stir in
a bit of honey to taste and sip it in a nice, quiet, relaxed
space.
○ Using the essential oil mixed with a carrier oil, rub a few
drops gently into the temples using the forefinger and
middle finger of each hand.
○ For the full benefit, try the essential oil together with a cup
of peppermint tea.
● Precautions:

○ Although the tea is relatively safe to use, too much of it can


cause nausea.
Honeysuckle
● Can be used as:
○ Essential oil
○ Powder

● Directions:
○ Rub the essential oil gently into the temples using the
forefinger and middle finger of each hand.

○ Stir a few spoons of honeysuckle powder in some water or


milk.

Joint Pain
Joint pain is experienced when the joint becomes inflamed due to injuries,
stress fractures, or more severe illness, such as arthritis.

Recommended Herbal Treatment


Frankincense or Boswellia
● Can be taken as:
○ Tablet
● Directions:
○ The dosages and directions will differ depending on the
person’s age and weight, as well as the severity of the
condition.
● Precaution:

○ Do not exceed the daily dosage requirements.


Thunder God Vine
● Can be used as:
○ Topical cream
● Directions:
○ Apply the cream directly onto the inflamed areas.
● Precautions:
○ Wash all traces of the cream from your hand when you finish
applying it.

○ Do not use the cream for a prolonged period.

Migraine
A migraine headache can be a debilitating pain that makes a person’s brain
feel like it wants to explode. It sometimes causes blurred vision, nausea, and
vomiting.

Recommended Herbal Treatment


Butterbur
● Can be taken as:
○ Tablet
● Directions:
○ Take 50 to 70 mg of butterbur twice daily.
● Precautions:
○ Do not exceed the recommended daily allowance.

○ Do not take the tablets for a prolonged period without


consulting a doctor.
Coriander Seed
● Can be taken as:
○ Seeds
○ Tea
○ Capsules
● Directions:
○ As the dosage will change depending on the person, age,
weight, and severity of the condition, always read the
directions first.
○ A teaspoon of coriander seeds can be chewed when needed.
● Precaution:
○ Overconsumption can lead to stomach upset.

Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers can be caused by stress, anxiety, and allergic reactions.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Triphala
● Can be taken as:
○ Powder
● Directions:
○ In a cup of fresh water, mix a half teaspoon of the powder.

○ Gargle with the solution at least once a day.


● Precaution:
○ Try not to swallow too much of the solution.
Tulsi Leaves
● Can be taken as:
○ Raw
● Directions:
○ Chew one to two fresh leaves and drink some water to clear
the taste from your mouth.

● Precaution:
○ The leaves may be a bit bitter, but they work wonders on
mouth ulcers.

Muscle Stiffness and Aches

Sore, tired, aching muscles can be caused by lack of or too much exercise,
injury, or stress and strain on the muscles.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Cayenne Pepper
● Can be taken/used as:
○ Spice
○ Tea
○ Cream
● Directions:

○ As a spice, it can be added to most foods.


○ Cayenne pepper can be sprinkled in coffee, tea, milk,
smoothies, and so on.
○ As a topical cream, it should be applied directly to the area
causing the pain.
● Precaution:
○ Do not get any of the cream or spice in the eyes.
Cherries
● Can be taken/used as:
○ Raw

○ Teas
○ Juice
○ Essential oil
● Directions:

○ It can be drunk as a warm tea, used in smoothies, and so on.


○ As an essential oil, it should be applied directly to the area
causing the pain. You can also add a few drops in the water
during a warm bath to soothe sore muscles.
● Precautions:
○ Do not have too many cherries or drink too much of the
juice, as it can have a laxative effect.
○ Consume less than 500 mL of juice a day.
Blueberry
● Can be taken/used as:

○ Raw
○ Tea
○ Juice

○ Essential oil
● Directions:
○ It can be drunk as a warm tea, used in smoothies, and used in
various foods.
○ Blueberries are also a natural sweetener.
○ As an essential oil, it should be applied directly to the area
causing the pain or added in warm water during a bath to
soothe sore muscles.
● Precautions:
○ Do not have too many blueberries or drink too much of the
juice, as it can cause stomach upset. A person should not
consume more than 500 mL of blueberry juice a day.

○ Be aware of food allergies, as some people can be more


sensitive to certain berries.
Nail Fungus
Nail fungus can be painful. It discolors the nails and may even cause you to
lose them.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Snakeroot Extract
● Can be used as:
○ Topical cream

● Directions:
○ Apply the cream to the affected nails every day until the
fungus is gone.
○ After that, continue applying the cream at least twice a week
for a month.
● Precaution:
○ Do not get any of the snakeroot cream in the eyes.

Vinegar
● Can be taken as:
○ Liquid

● Directions:
● Make a solution containing 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water.
● The water must be warm and the infected nail(s) should be soaked in
the solution for 20 minutes every day until the fungus is gone.
● Use it twice a week for a month after that.

● Precaution:
● Do not soak your nails in vinegar longer than the designated time
each day.

Sinus
Sinus blocks up the nose and makes the head feel stuffy and painful. Some
sinus infections are so severe that the pain can feel like a toothache.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Eucalyptus

● Can be used as:


○ Essential oil
● Directions:
○ Boil water and pour it into a heatproof dish.
○ Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the water.
○ Take a clean towel and put it over your head while breathing
in the steam.
○ Rub the oil on the chest, temples, between the eyes, and
below the nose.

○ Adding a few drops on the pillow at night can also help to


unblock the sinus cavities.
○ Put a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a clean cloth and inhale
its scent.
● Precaution:

○ Do not ingest the oil.


Rosemary
● Can be used as:
○ Essential oil
● Directions:
○ Boil water and pour it into a heatproof dish.
○ Put a few drops of rosemary oil in the water.
○ Take a clean towel and put it over the head while breathing
in the steam.

○ Rub the oil on the chest, temples, between the eyes, and
below the nose.
● Precautions:
○ Do not ingest the oil.

Sores
Scrapes, cuts, grazes, and bruises are a part of life. It is not often that a person
will go a month or two without getting a scrape or nick.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Tea Tree Oil

● Can be used as:


○ Essential oil
● Directions:
○ Mix it with a carrier oil (e.g., sweet almond oil). Grapeseed
and coconut oils can be used in the place of sweet almond
oil.
○ Once the wound has been cleaned, apply a few drops of oil
to the sore.
● Precaution:
○ Do not ingest the oil.
Cinnamon
● Can be used as:
○ Essential oil
● Directions:

○ Mix it with a carrier oil (e.g., sweet almond oil). Grapeseed


and coconut oils can be used in the place of sweet almond
oil.
○ Once the wound has been cleaned, apply a few drops of oil
to the sore.
● Precaution:

○ Do not ingest the oil.


Toothache
Toothache can be caused by a chipped tooth, tooth decay, gum disease, and
various illnesses.
Recommended Herbal Treatment
Clove
● Can be used as:
○ Oil

○ Raw
● Directions:
○ If you prefer clove oil, use a cotton wool ball and pour a few
drops on it. Dab the cotton wool ball on the sore tooth and
around the gum area.
○ If you are using a whole clove, soak it in vinegar for 5 to 10
minutes. Put it on the sore tooth and bite down for a minute.
○ You can use both clove oil and clove to create a mouthwash.
Pour a few drops of clove oil into a fresh glass of water.
Drop the cloves into the solution, cover, and let them soak
for 3o minutes up to an hour before using the liquid as a
mouthwash.
○ Use clove essential oil, raw clove, or mouthwash solution a
few times a day to combat toothache.
● Precaution:
○ Clove can make the mouth feel a little numb.
Thyme
● Can be used as:
○ Essential oil
● Directions:

○ Add a few drops of thyme essential oil on a cotton wool ball.


Dilute it with a few drops of water. Dab the cotton wool ball
on the sore tooth and around the gum area.
○ You can create a mouthwash solution by putting a few drops
of thyme essential oil into a small glass of water.

○ Use thyme essential oil or mouthwash a few times a day to


combat toothache.
Chapter 6: How to Make Sure You Use Herbal
Medicine the Right Way
Herbal medicines may be natural, but they still have an effect on the body.
They should be taken with the same care and consideration that one would do
when taking prescription or conventional remedies. Otherwise, they can
affect you negatively.

Precautions When Using Herbal Medication


● Remember that herbal medicine may not be suitable for:
○ Senior citizens
○ Pregnant women
○ Breastfeeding mothers
○ Infants and young children (any and all medication should be
kept out of reach of children)
○ Anyone taking medication for any illness
○ Anyone about to undergo or has undergone surgery, since
conventional medication may be required to aid recovery or
stave off infection
○ Anyone who has liver, kidney, or cardiovascular disease
● If you experience an uncommon effect while taking herbal medicine, you
must stop the treatment immediately.
● Herbal medication should only be purchased from reliable and reputable
sources.
● Take care when using herbal medicine, as it can affect other medications,
including conventional and natural supplements.
● It is always advisable to seek advice from a licensed medical professional
or homeopath before taking any herbal remedies. They can help you find
the best solutions and correct doses.
● It is not advisable to self-diagnose illnesses, as it may lead to
complications.
Common Side Effects of Using Herbal Medication
Everyone reacts differently to certain substances. Something that may affect
one person badly may have no effect at all on another person. Some people
sneeze a lot when they come close to roses and animal fur while others deal
with mild to severe swelling when an ant bites them.
Herbs are no different, in the sense that they can potentially cause side
effects, such as:
● Allergic reactions
● Asthma
● Diarrhea
● Dizziness
● Headaches
● Skin irritations and rashes
● Nausea
● Vomiting
Can You Overuse Herbs and Herbal Medicine?
Herbal supplements and medication play an important part in maintaining a
healthy lifestyle. Some of the vitamins and minerals they supply are
necessary to encourage optimum health. They are also used as a safer
alternative to treating stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders. However, what
most people do not realize is that some of them can be toxic. This is why
there are limitations in terms of how much of the remedy should be taken or
used and for how long.
It is also quite possible to overdose on herbal medication. Although there are
only few fatalities recorded, taking too much natural supplement can still
cause serious damage to a person’s health.

How to Avoid Overusing Herbs and Herbal


Medications
Not all overdoses are intentional. Try to avoid overusing herbs and herbal
remedies by doing the following:
● Read the product labels and directions all the time.
● Try to keep the leaflets that the products come with. All medicines,
herbal and otherwise, should be kept in the packaging they arrived in
as well.
● Conduct extensive research on the herbs used in the remedy, as well
as what other agents or substances are used to make the product.
● Try to avoid mixing solutions or supplements without explicit
instructions or under the strict supervision of a licensed professional.
● Make sure that all medication is locked away or out of sight and
reach of children.
● As mentioned earlier, seek advice from a medical practitioner before
taking any herbal medication or supplement.
How to Use Herbs and Herbal Medication Safely
All medication needs to be taken with care, regardless if it is prescription or
herbal. There are a few methods to use to ensure that you get the most out of
a remedy.

Essential Oils
Infants and children up to 12 years old
● 3 to 6 drops of essential oil to be diluted in 1 ounce of carrier oil
Adults and teenagers from 13 to 18 years old
● 30 drops of essential oil to be diluted in 1 ounce of carrier oil
● 60 drops of essential oil to be diluted in 1 ounce of carrier oil for a
stronger application.
Tips and Recommendations
● Always test the oil on a patch of skin before using the solution to
ensure that you are not allergic to it.
● Essential oils can be used as a spray or compress.
● They can be used as a bath or foot soak.
● Always read the instructions and follow them closely to get the best
results.

Teas
Some herbal teas make lovely iced teas; others just seem to work better when
they are hot.
Herbal tea is known to have many benefits that aid in maintaining a healthy
system. It improves digestion and aids in all sorts of stomach upset. It also
can do the following:
● Stop and soothe stomach cramps
● Release trapped wind and get rid of that bloated feeling
● Fight off colds and flu and reduce common aches and pains
associated with the illness
● Relieve stress and anxiety
● Allow skin to look smooth and blemish-free
● Lower blood pressure
● Promote good skin health for a brighter complexion
● Reduce inflammation in the body
● Purify the skin
Different Kinds of Herbal Teas and Their Uses
● Anise Tea
○ It is one of the best teas for stomach ulcers.
○ It helps ease stomach cramps and gets rid of fatigue, trapped
wind, congestion and sinus, colds and flu, and persistent coughs.
○ It helps to stop nausea and vomiting.
○ It has a strong licorice flavor and aroma.
○ It can be bought online and at health stores, as well as
pharmacies.
● Catnip
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps get rid of stomach pain, cramps, bloating, and trapped
wind.
○ Catnip is minty, earthy, and sweet.
○ It helps reduce acid reflux and heartburn.
○ It can relieve pain and fever.
○ It can help reduce headaches and various aches and pains.
○ Catnip tastes and smells like minty orange with its hint of mint.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and major
outlets that sell herbal teas.
● Chamomile Tea
○ It can help with stress relief and sleep problems.
○ The tea is good for soothing frayed nerves.
○ It promotes good digestive health.
○ It has immune-boosting properties.
○ It helps to fight inflammation and has antibacterial properties.
○ It is a nice, relaxing tea with a subtle flavor and aroma.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores and pharmacies.
● Cinnamon
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts both energy and libido levels, staves off fatigue,
strengthens the immune system, and has mood-enhancing
properties.
○ It can also help with stress relief.
○ Patula has a pungent taste and aroma.
○ It can be bought online, as well as in health stores and
pharmacies.
● Dandelion Tea
○ It gets rid of stomach cramps and trapped wind.
○ It helps with weight loss and increases stamina.
○ It boosts blood cells and protects the body against anemia.
○ It strengthens the bones.
○ Dandelion has a rich, warm, smoky taste that is quite sweet.
○ It can be bought in health stores, pharmacies, and online.
● Eucalyptus Tea
○ It can deal with respiratory infections, coughs, colds, flu,
congestion, and sinusitis.
○ It helps to improve blood circulation.
○ It staves off fatigue and boosts energy levels.
○ It strengthens the immune system.
○ It is good for stiff, sore, and swollen joints.
○ It helps to relieve the symptoms of stress.
○ Eucalyptus tastes a bit like a mixture of licorice, mint, and
spearmint.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Echinacea Tea
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It can help to treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can relieve hay fever and allergies.
○ It can help with bronchitis.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ Echinacea tastes and smells like a minty orange.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Fennel Tea
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It regulates stomach pain, cramps, bloating, and trapped wind.
○ It helps with acid reflux and heartburn.
○ It can relieve the symptoms of food poisoning.
○ Fennel tastes and smells like licorice.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Feverfew
○ It can help fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind,
nausea, and vomiting.
○ It can relieve fever, headaches, migraines, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ Feverfew smells and tastes like a mild orange.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Ginger Root Tea
○ It can boost the immune system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, allergies, and bronchitis.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ Ginger has a zing to it, as well as a flavor with a slight tangy
burn. It smells like ginger biscuits (because some are made from
real ginger).
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Ginseng Panax
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts the libido and immune system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, bronchitis, and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ It aids in weight loss and prevents cancer.
○ It can help to reduce the risk of getting heart disease and free
radicals.
○ Ginseng has a spicy taste.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Green Tea
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, bronchitis, and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ It aids in weight loss and prevents cancer.
○ It can reduce the risk of getting heart disease and free radicals.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Hibiscus Tea
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It aids in weight loss.
○ It helps with anxiety, prevents cancer, and reduces blood
pressure and the risk of getting heart disease.
○ Hibiscus tastes sweet and tangy, with a gentle aroma.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Hawthorn
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, bronchitis, and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ It aids in weight loss and prevents cancer.
○ It reduces the risk of getting heart disease and free radicals.
○ It helps to maintain good blood pressure levels.
○ It gives the body energy, staves off fatigue, and helps with
various skin ailments and sores.
○ Hawthorn has a strange, bittersweet tangy taste.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Jasmine
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts metabolism.
○ It can help lower cholesterol.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, and trapped wind.
○ It helps with acid reflux and heartburn.
○ It can help with migraines and tension headaches.
○ It aids in weight loss.
○ Jasmine has a tart but refreshing taste and aroma.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Juniper Berry
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, bronchitis, and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ It aids in weight loss and prevents cancer.
○ It reduces the risk of getting heart disease and free radicals.
○ It can help with skin irritations, rashes, and eczema.
○ Juniper is a bitter-tasting tea with quite a tang.
○ It can be bought online and in health stores or pharmacies.
● Kava Root Tea
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It can curb cravings.
○ It may slow down the aging process.
○ Kava has an earthy taste and smells almost like a wet forest.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Lemongrass Tea
○ It can be used to detoxify the body and boost the immune
system.
○ It helps lower cholesterol, relieve water retention, reduce blood
pressure, heal bladder infections, and promote healthy skin.
○ It can fight against viruses.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, and trapped wind.
○ Lemongrass tastes and smells like a light orange.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Oolong
○ It can be used to detoxify the body and boost the immune
system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever, bronchitis, and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It can relieve fever, headache, migraine, sinusitis, and various
aches and pains.
○ It aids in weight loss and prevents cancer.
○ It reduces the risk of getting heart disease and free radicals.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, and trapped wind.
○ It helps with acid reflux and heartburn.
○ Oolong has a strong aroma.
○ It is mainly available online, but it can sometimes be found in
health stores, pharmacies, and most outlets that sell herbal teas.
● Oregano
○ It can be used to detoxify the body and boost the immune
system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help with hay fever and allergies.
○ It can fight against bacteria.
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps with stomach pain, cramps, bloating, trapped wind, acid
reflux, and heartburn.
○ It helps with the aging process by getting rid of wrinkles, spots,
and blemishes.
○ Oregano tastes a bit like thyme, but it has a much stronger,
warmer taste.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Patchouli Tea
○ It can be used to detoxify the body.
○ It boosts both energy and libido levels.
○ It staves off fatigue, boosts the immune system, and has mood-
enhancing properties.
○ It can also help with stress relief.
○ Patula has a pungent taste and aroma.
○ It can be bought online, and in selected health stores and
pharmacies.
● Peppermint/Mint Tea
○ It can be used to help with sore eyes.
○ It is a great anti-inflammatory.
○ It is a great antioxidant.
○ It can help with acid reflux and heartburn.
○ It can help relieve the pain of headaches.
○ It has a fresh, minty flavor that can be drunk as a hot or iced tea.
○ It can be found at most stores, pharmacies, health shops, and
online.
● Rooibos Tea
○ Rooibos tea is good for digestion.
○ It can help to get rid of most headaches.
○ It is good for anti-aging.
○ It helps treat the symptoms of colds and flu.
○ It can help with sleeping problems.
○ Rooibos tea has a rich, spicy taste.
○ It can be bought online and at selected pharmacies and health
shops.
● Rosehip Tea
○ Rosehip tea is a very good immune booster.
○ It high in vitamin C.
○ It can help detox the body.
○ It helps treat the symptoms of colds and flu.
○ Rosehip tea has a fruity, flowery taste.
○ It can be bought online, as well as at health shops and some
stores.
● Rosemary
○ It boosts the immune system.
○ It can help to treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It has antioxidant properties.
○ It can help with the relief of headaches, migraines, sinusitis, and
free radicals.
○ Rosemary has a peppery, tart taste and heavy aroma.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Spearmint Tea
○ It helps to fight off infections.
○ It helps with colic and trapped wind.
○ It helps with the absorption of nutrients into the body.
○ It has been known to improve digestion and promote a healthy
digestive system.
○ It has a sweet, minty taste and a fresh aroma.
○ Spearmint can be found in most health shops and pharmacies or
it can be bought online.
● Sweet Violet Tea
○ Sweet Violet tea is high in vitamins C and A and boosts the
immune system.
○ It can treat the symptoms of colds, cough, and flu.
○ It can help fight against bacteria and viruses.
○ It has antioxidant properties.
○ It can help with the relief of headaches, migraines, and sinusitis.
○ It helps to get rid of free radicals.
○ Sweet Violet tea has an aromatic flavor and smells like a field of
flowers.
○ It can be bought online or at health stores, pharmacies, and most
stores that sell herbal teas.
● Thyme Tea
○ Thyme tea is a good immune booster.
○ It can help to get rid of most headaches.
○ It can help to reduce fever.
○ It helps treat the symptoms of colds and flu.
○ It is good to have as a tonic to treat coughs.
○ Thyme tea has a rich, woodsy, spicy taste.
○ It can be bought online, in most grocery stores, pharmacies, and
health shops.
● Turmeric Tea
○ It aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy system.
○ It is an antioxidant.
○ It can be used as a poultice on wounds.
○ It reduces inflammation.
○ It can also be used to help with headaches and migraines.

○ Turmeric can have quite a bite to it.


○ It can be bought at most health shops, drugstores[LA20],
pharmacies, and can be bought online.
● Valerian Root Tea
○ It can help to lower stress and anxiety levels.
○ It may also help in the lowering of high blood pressure.
○ It contains anti-spasmodic properties.
○ It can be used as a sedative and it contains agents that aid in
relaxation.
○ It has a bit of an earthy taste to it and a strong aroma.
○ It can be bought in health shops and online.
● Yarrow Tea
○ It has anti-inflammatory properties.
○ It helps in fighting off bacterial infections.
○ It can be a bit bitter to taste.
○ Yarrow is not a common tea and can be bought online.
Making Hot Herbal Tea
● Use the water as soon as it has boiled.
○ If you are using store-bought herbal tea bags, use 1 tea bag
per cup. It can be put directly into the cup or teapot.
○ If you are using store-bought herbal tea leaves, use one
teaspoon per cup or per two cups, depending on the type of
herb being used. You will need a strainer for loose leaves.
You can either leave them loose in the cup or strain them off
when done or put them into a strainer in the cup or teapot to
steep.
○ Fresh herbal tea leaves can be steeped the same way as store-
bought tea leaves. One teaspoon per cup to be put directly
into the teacup or teapot.
○ Fresh herbs can be left loose in the teacup or teapot or put
into a tea strainer using the same method as with loose
herbal tea leaves. Check the amounts required per cup, as
they may differ from herb to herb and the application they
are being used for. For instance, you may need a bit more of
a certain herb for sleep and less for a headache, etc. If it is
just as a soothing drink, then you would use a minimal or
standard amount.
○ Edible flowers and berries can be crushed and placed
directly into a cup or teapot. It is better to use a strainer so
there are no bits floating in the tea. Use three to four petals
or two to three berries per cup, depending on the flower and
the application they are being used for.
○ Roots and bark can be placed directly into the cup or teapot.
Once again, if you do not like bits floating in your tea, use a
strainer to steep them in. Use one to two roots per cup,
depending on the type of root being used and the application
it is being used for.
● Leave the tea to steep.
○ The longer the leaves steep, the more goodness seeps into
the beverage.
○ The time they need for steeping will vary from herb to herb
and if they are being used as a specific remedy.
○ The steep time can also be dependent on whether you are
using tea bags, tea leaves, or fresh herbs, leaves, flowers, or
roots. Talk to an herbalist or medical professional
knowledgeable in herbal remedies for recommendations on
amounts and steep times for treating various ailments.
○ Store-bought herbal tea bags usually only need 2 to 3
minutes of steep time.
○ Store-bought herbal tea leaves usually take up to 10 minutes
of steep time.
○ Fresh tea leaves, herbs, and flowers can take anywhere from
10 minutes to 30 minutes to steep.
○ Fresh berries or bark will need at least 20 minutes to steep.
○ Roots need a little longer to steep than most herbs and
should be left for around 30 minutes.
● Cover the tea while steeping.
○ The properties that make herbal medicines work are the
volatile or essential oils they contain.
○ If the teapot or teacup is not covered up while the tea is
steeping, all the goodness, the volatile oils, will float away
with the steam. Although there may still be a little left in the
teapot or cup, most of it will be lost.
○ A clean tea cozy or tea towel can be used to cover the teapot
or teacup and trap all that goodness in the tea. You can even
cover the tea with a plate or something similar that will trap
the steam in.
● Pour the tea.
○ For tea bags, you will need to squeeze the bag to get all the
excess moisture and goodness out of it. If you use compost,
these bags are really great for that.
○ When using a tea strainer, lift it out of the teacup or teapot
and let it drain. Give it a gentle shake so it will not drip, then
the leaves can be composted.
○ If the leaves, roots, berries, herbs, or flowers were put
directly into the pot or cup, use a tea strainer when you pour
the tea out of the pot. If you used a cup, simply strain the tea
through a strainer into a clean cup.
● Add a spoonful of honey.
○ Herbal teas are delicious with a spoon of honey or whatever
sweetener you use. Honey is a healthier alternative to
normal sugar and artificial sweeteners; plus, it just adds to
the taste of and goes with any herb, flower, berry, or root.

Making Iced Herbal Tea


● If you want to make a refreshing herbal iced tea, do it the same way
as you would with a hot herbal tea.
● Use the same amount of ingredients and steep it for the same amount
of time.
● Strain it the same way as you already know, too. Only, strain it into a
clean, heat-resistant pitcher or jug.
● Cover the jug or pitcher and put it somewhere out of direct sunlight
to cool down.
● Once the tea has completely cooled down, add honey, fruit juice, or
some spice to flavor the tea. There are many recipes readily available
online and in health shops that complement the different types of
herbal tea. There are also delicious herbal tea smoothie recipes to
make.
● Put it in the fridge to get nice and cold or add freshwater ice cubes to
the jug or pitcher for a nice, healthy, refreshing drink.
Tips and Recommendations
● Most adults and even young kids can drink herbal teas.
● Herbal teas are a healthier alternative for kid’s juice boxes, as they do
not contain all the additives and artificial colorings or flavorings of
store-bought drinks.
● Always check before serving some teas to kids, as toddlers may need
to have a more diluted version of the tea. Usually, teas are given to
toddlers from ages 3 and up.
● They can also be inhaled using a diffuser. They may need to be
mixed with water or heat so always read and follow the instructions
carefully.
● Never burn essential oils as a sort of incense. Burning them changes
their chemical compound. Rather use the correct incense sticks.

Tablets/Pills and Powders


Tablets/Pills
● Always read the label for the recommended daily dose or allowance.
● Take the tablets at the recommended intervals and duration as
prescribed or as per the label.
● Take herbal tablets as you would any other tablet, with a glass of
fresh water.
Powders
● Always read the label or seek professional advice on dosages and
daily allowances.
● Powders should be used as prescribed or recommended on the pack.
● Powders are normally taken by pouring them onto the tongue and
then swallowed with water.
● They may need to be dissolved in water. If this is the case, use the
recommended amount of water per dose. Dissolve the powder and
drink it right away. It is advisable to put a little more water in the
glass to get the last remnants of the powder.
Tips and Recommendations
● Seek advice before taking any medication.
● Check with a medical professional before giving any medication,
even herbal, to an infant or child.
● Always follow the recommended dose on the packaging.
● Stick to the prescribed instructions for any herbal medication.
● If you cannot swallow a tablet, you can crush it.
● It is best to take both tablets and powders with fresh water to ensure
that there are no agents that can interfere with the herbal properties.
● Essential oils can be used in massage and aromatherapy.

Herbal Tinctures or Syrups


Herbal Tinctures
● Tinctures usually come with a dropper for correct dosages.
● Some drops need to drip directly into the mouth. Most people drop
the liquid onto the tongue, but the correct way is to do it under the
tongue. Leave it for a few seconds before swallowing.
● Some drips need to be diluted in a certain amount of water. Use fresh
water and make sure it is mixed well before taking the solution.

Herbal Syrups
● Herbal syrups are usually used for coughs or to counteract heartburn,
acid reflux, colds, and flu.
● Take the recommended doses using a measuring spoon, tube, or
syringe.
Tips and Recommendations
● Always read the instructions when taking tinctures or syrups
carefully and follow the instructions.
● Never give herbal tinctures or syrups to infants, children, the sick, or
elderly without consulting a medical professional first.
● Use a clean measuring spoon or cup to properly administer the
correct dose of syrup.
● Use a dropper or small syringe to measure tinctures.
● It is best to seek advice before taking any medication.
● Check with a medical professional before giving herbal tinctures or
syrups to an infant or child.
● Always follow the recommended dose on the packaging or stick to
the instructions given by a doctor.
● Never self-diagnose, especially for kids or infants, since herbal
tinctures and cough syrups contain alcohol.
Chapter 7: Build Your Own Herbal/Natural
Remedy Medicine Collection
Collecting herbal remedies that can fill an entire medicine cabinet can
practically set you for life. After all, alternative medicine is not only a lot
healthier than its conventional counterpart, but it does not cost as much as
well. A lot of the remedies can grow in your garden, no matter how big or
small it may be. Thus, you will know exactly what goes in the medicine and
feel satisfaction when you realize that you have just concocted your own
herbal remedy.
When we talk about natural medicine, it does not merely include capsules,
tablets, or tinctures. There are also essential oils that you can put in a bath or
rub on a patient’s forehead, bruise, sprain, strain, and so on. Other types of
herbal medicine can be ingested as well, in the form of juices or teas.
The most important thing to do right now is to learn the kinds of herbs and
plants that will work for a particular ailment. To ease the process, we have
taken the liberty of categorizing the natural remedies according to the issues
they help with. We have also added information regarding dosages, duration,
possible side effects, and much more. You are more than welcome to use the
following ideas as a reference when you feel ready to create your alternative
medicine collection.

Pain
Lavender
● Best way to use it: Essential 0il
● Dosage: Use two drops of diluted lavender essential oil on the
fingertips and gently rub or massage into the area of the pain.
● Duration: Three times a day until the pain has subsided.
● Precaution/Tip: Do not take essential oil by mouth. Always do a
skin test to check for any irritation before using the oil.
● Possible side effect(s): Lavender oil must be applied with caution in
young boys who have not yet hit puberty, as it can disrupt normal
hormones and likely cause abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia).
Lavender has an effect on the central nervous system of surgery
patients. It is advisable to stop using lavender two weeks before any
surgical procedures.
If lavender oil is ingested, it can increase appetite, headaches, thirst,
and constipation.
When applied as oil, it may cause skin irritation, but this is a very
rare occurrence.
● Accessibility: It is available at most pharmacies, drugstores, and
health shops.
Ginger
● Best way to use it: Ginger extract or powdered ginger
● Dosage: Take a teaspoon of ginger extract orally or crush the ginger
to a powdered form and add to soup or iced tea.
● Duration: Small doses of ginger can be consumed daily.
● Tip: Taking encapsulated ginger may prevent heartburn.
● Possible side effect(s): The intake of ginger may interfere with
prescribed diabetes medication. It is recommended to adjust your
dosage when consuming ginger for health reasons.
Ginger can also irritate the mouth, but natural ginger has little known
side effects to most people.
● Accessibility: Powdered gingered can be bought at most local
supermarkets, as it is used as a spice in cooking. The capsulated,
powdered, or extracted form can also be purchased at pharmacies,
drugstores, and health shops.
Feverfew
● Best way to use it: Feverfew leaves, both dry and fresh
● Dosage: 50-150 mg of dried leaves or two and a half fresh leaves
with or after a meal.
● Duration: Use it as necessary. The safety period to consume it is 4
months and should not be taken longer than that.
● Precaution/Tip: Feverfew is best used to treat and prevent
migraines. However, handling the fresh feverfew leaves may cause
an allergic reaction. It is also unsafe to consume while pregnant,
since it can cause early contractions or miscarriage.
● Possible side effect(s): Swelling lips, tongue, and mucous glands,
abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and indigestion.
● Accessibility: Dried feverfew leaves can be bought online, as well as
in most health shops.
Turmeric
● Best way to use it: Powdered
● Dosage: 500–1000 milligrams of curcuminoids may be consumed a
day. Curcuminoids are the main element in turmeric. Generally,
there are 200 milligrams of curcumin in one teaspoon of either fresh
or ground turmeric.
● Duration: Depending on the intake reasons, dosages can last up to
three months. It is safe to consume turmeric orally for up to 12
months.
● Precaution/Tip: There are many factors that need to be considered
before considering this treatment, such as the person’s age, health,
the severity of conditions, etc. Nevertheless, turmeric powder can be
added to dishes for flavor and health benefits or simply consumed as
a tea.
● Possible side effect(s): Little to no side effects.
● Accessibility: Turmeric is a spice, so it can be purchased at
supermarkets, drugstores, pharmacies, and online.
Willow Bark
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: 120–240 mg of willow bark extract for back pain.
● Duration: 40 mg of salicin three to four times a day for a short
period of up to 12 weeks.
● Precaution/Tip: Consult with your doctor before use.
● Possible side effect(s): Unsafe for children and pregnant women.
● Accessibility: Willow bark essential oil can be purchased at local
pharmacies, drugstores, and online.
Cats Claw
● Best way to use it: Tincture drops
● Dosage: In a few glasses of water, mix 30 to 60 drops. Children can
take 15 drops in a glass of fresh water.
● Duration: The concoction can be taken three times a day for adults
and children. It is not recommended for extended use.
● Precaution/Tip: Cats claw should not be taken by children under the
age of 2 years old or pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, as
there is no data to support otherwise. Cats claw has properties that
can lower blood pressure, so people with hypotension should not
take it.
● Possible side effect(s): Dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
● Accessibility: Cats claw can be bought online, as well as at some
health stores and pharmacies.

Wounds
Goldenrod
● Best way to use it: Dried or extract
● Dosage: When taken as a tea, it is recommended to add 3–5 grams of
dried goldenrod per cup of water and drink 4 of these cups daily.
When consuming the liquid extract, a recommended dosage is 0.5–2
milliliters three times a day.
Goldenrod (350–450 milligrams) can also be consumed as a dry
extract 3 times a day.
● Duration: When used for a specific condition, continue usage for 2–
4 weeks.
● Tip: Goldenrod is commonly known as yellow wildflower, which is
an edible plant. The flowers are edible and can either be used as a
garnish or mixed with the leaves to make a tea.
The appropriate dosage depends on many different factors, such as
the patient’s age, health, and severity of the condition. Consult your
pharmacist or doctor before using it.
● Possible side effect(s): Not enough information is available to
confirm whether it is safe to consume goldenrod for medical
conditions or not.
Users with ragweed allergies should refrain from using goldenrod
until they have consulted a healthcare provider.
● Accessibility: Goldenrod is a rare plant. It may be most accessible
online.
Yarrow
● Best way to use it: Powdered dried leaves
● Dosage: Apply a teaspoon of powdered yarrow leaves to the
external, minor wound two to three times a day.
The powdered yarrow should be applied to bleeding wounds. The
use of yarrow reduces pain and improves healing.
● Duration: Use it until the external wound closes and a scab forms
that will fall off to reveal new skin.
● Precaution/Tip: There is not enough information about yarrow to
provide users with a professional opinion on the safety of using it as
a remedy. Follow the directions on the labels to ensure proper usage.
● Possible side effect(s): When taken orally, yarrow may cause
drowsiness. When applied externally, it may cause skin irritation.
● Accessibility: Yarrow may be found in pharmacies, but this herb is
more commonly purchased online.
Aloe Vera
● Best way to use it: Cream or gel
● Dosage: Apply aloe vera to external wounds and burns. Reapply it
two to three times a day.
● Duration: Use aloe vera until the burn or wound starts to scab and
flake off.
● Precaution/Tip: Some users reported skin irritation with the use of
aloe vera. Consult with a dermatologist or medical consultant before
use.
● Possible side effect(s): Allergic reactions to aloe vera are possible,
and usage should be halted if side effects occur.
● Accessibility: Aloe vera creams or gels can be purchased at
drugstores, supermarkets, local pharmacies, and online.
Coconut Oil
● Best way to use it: Solid or liquid form
● Dosage: Coat the wound or affected area with a generous amount of
pure coconut oil.
● Duration: Continue usage until the wound scabs over and flakes off.
● Tip: Coconut oil has antibacterial properties and helps to heal
wounds and cuts at a fast rate.
● Possible side effect(s): Skin conditions.
● Accessibility: Coconut oil can be purchased at pharmacies,
drugstores, and local supermarkets.
Limestone
● Best way to use it: Powdered
● Dosage: Heat up turmeric and chuna and mix it with the limestone
powder before applying the mixture on the wound.
● Duration: Use it until the wound has healed completely.
● Tip: Consult with a pharmacist or medical adviser before using the
limestone mixture. If any signs of discomfort or illness occur
afterward, stop its application immediately and seek professional
help.
● Possible side effect(s): Lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and gas.
● Accessibility: Limestone powder can be found at pharmacies or
online.
Neem
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: Add a couple of drops of neem essential oil on a ball of
cotton wool and dab it onto the wound. The oil should be left to soak
for at least 20 minutes. Afterward, wash it off with warm water.
● Duration: Neem essential oil should be used on the wound daily
until it has properly healed.
● Precaution/Tip: Neem oil should not be used over long periods of
time, as it could be harmful to the kidneys and liver. Consult with
your doctor if the wound is severe or does not heal properly.
● Possible side effect(s): Kidney or liver issues.
● Accessibility: Neem essential oil can be purchased at local
pharmacies, drugstores, or online.

Sleep
Valerian Root
● The best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: 450–900 mg at night before bed.
● Duration: Use valerian root if you have insomnia or find it difficult
to sleep. It can be taken as frequently as needed.
● Precaution/Tip: Valerian root interferes with some prescription
medication and increases the sedative effects of alcohol and
narcotics.
● Possible side effect(s): Headaches, stomach problems, and restless
sleep or nightmares.
● Accessibility: Valerian root can be purchased at pharmacies.
Passionflower
● Best way to use it: Tea leaves and liquid extracts
● Dosage: A cup of tea can be consumed daily. It should contain 4–8 g
of dried herbs.
When using the liquid extract, it is recommended to consume 10–30
drops three times a day.
● Duration: The tea can be consumed for up to seven nights. If used as
a medicine, it is useful for up to eight weeks.
● Precaution/Tip: Passionflower is a sedative and should not be used
in doses higher than the recommended levels.
● Possible side effect(s): Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.
● Accessibility: Passionflower can be purchased at pharmacies and
online.
Ginkgo Biloba
● Best way to use it: Extract
● Dosage: 250 mg before bed to enhance sleep and reduce stress.
● Duration: Consume ginkgo biloba for a short amount of time and
only when necessary.
● Tip: Consult a medical professional before using it.
● Possible side effect(s): There are no known side effects from the use
of ginkgo biloba.
● Accessibility: Ginkgo biloba can be purchased at local pharmacies.

Stress
Holy Basil
● Best way to use it: Dried or powdered leaves
● Dosage: For stress and anxiety, it is recommended to take 500 mg
twice a day after meals.
● Duration: Holy basil can be taken for medical purposes for up to 60
days.
● Precaution/Tip: Holy basil is safe to take orally for short periods of
time, but do not take more than the recommended dosage. Read the
instructions and warning labels at the back of the packaging.
● Possible side effect(s): Nausea or diarrhea.
● Accessibility: Holy basil can be purchased at pharmacies, health
shops, and online.
Lemon Balm
● Best way to use it: Extract
● Dosage: For anxiety, it is recommended to take 300 mg twice a day.
● Duration: A standard dosage can be taken for 15 days.
● Precaution/Tip: Lemon balm should not be used alongside
sedatives.
● Possible side effect(s): Low blood sugar level and drowsiness.
● Accessibility: Lemon balm can be purchased at pharmacies and
health shops.
Ashwagandha
● Best way to use it: Root powder or extract
● Dosage: To treat anxiety and stress, consume 500–600 mg of
ashwagandha per day.
● Duration: The recommended dosage can be taken from 6 to 12
weeks.
● Precaution/Tip: The use of ashwagandha helps to reduce
cholesterol, induce sleep, and stabilize brain cell decline. It is
generally safe to consume ashwagandha for short periods of time.
● Possible side effect(s): Headaches, drowsiness, and stomach aches
● Accessibility: Ashwagandha can be found at local pharmacies and
health shops.

Bacopa Monnieri
● Best way to use it: Capsules
● Dosage: The recommended dosage is 500 mg twice a day. Generally,
the capsules are 250 mg each, which adds up to two capsules per
day.
● Duration: The capsules can be taken to reduce stress for up to six
months.
● Tip: Avoid taking the supplements during pregnancy.
● Possible side effect(s): Flu, nausea, and muscle fatigue.
● Accessibility: Bacopa monnieri capsules can be purchased at
pharmacies and health shops.
Chamomile
● Best way to use it: Capsules, oils, and tea
● Dosage: Chamomile tea is sold prepackaged in supermarkets. The
flowers (3 to 4 teaspoons) can be added to boiling water, dry or
fresh.
Chamomile oil can also be applied to the skin or added to bathwater
to relax the muscles and combat anxiety.
The capsules are your alternative if you don’t want to drink
chamomile tea.
● Duration: Chamomile tea and oil can be taken as long as needed, as
they don’t produce long-term side effects. It is perfectly healthy and
safe to consume chamomile tea daily.
● Precaution/Tip: Chamomile tea is known to lower high blood
pressure. Some users may also be allergic to chamomile. Consult
your medical adviser before using products made out of this plant.
● Possible side effect(s): Allergic reactions to chamomile are rare.
However, when taken in large doses, it may cause drowsiness and
vomiting.
● Accessibility: Chamomile tea, oil, and capsules can be purchased at
supermarkets, health shops, and pharmacies.

Digestive Problems
Artichoke
● Best way to use it: Stalks or extract
● Dosage: Consume 300–640 mg artichoke extract three times a day.
Artichoke stalks can be added to meals.
● Duration: The recommended dosage of artichoke extract can be
consumed for up to eight weeks.
● Precaution/Tip: Artichokes are high in protein, vitamin C,
potassium, and fiber. Still, people should consult their dietitian
before using it as an ingredient.
● Possible side effect(s): Stomachache, gas, diarrhea, and allergic
reaction.
● Accessibility: Artichokes can be purchased at wholesalers and
supermarkets. The extract is found at pharmacies and health shops.
Milk Thistle
● Best way to use it: Supplements
● Dosage: 420 mg a day.
● Duration: Milk thistle can be safely consumed for up to 41 months.
● Precaution/Tip: Users who take medication for high cholesterol
should steer clear of milk thistle. The same advice goes to people
with breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and
endometriosis.
● Possible side effect(s): Diarrhea, gas, indigestion, nausea, a loss of
appetite, and severe allergic reactions.
● Accessibility: Milk thistle supplements can be bought at pharmacies
and health shops.
Slippery Elm Bark
● Best way to use it: Powdered inner bark or liquid extract
● Dosage: The appropriate dose of slippery elm depends on many
factors, such as the user’s age, health, and severity of the condition.
Currently, it is recommended to take 4–16 mL of the powdered inner
bark three times a day. It can also be added to water as a nutritional
supplement. The recommended ratio is 4g:500 mL of water, and it
should also be taken three times a day.
The liquid extract, which can be applied topically, should be mixed
with 60% alcohol at a 1:1 ratio. It is recommended to use 5 mL three
times a day.
● Duration: It is recommended to use for short periods of time, up to
two weeks, until the symptoms pass.
● Precaution/Tip: Be sure to follow the directions on product labels
and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare
professionals before using it in any form.
● Possible side effect(s): It is not recommended to consume slippery
elm during pregnancy because it can cause a miscarriage.
Slippery elm can also cause allergic reactions. Usage should be
halted if any symptoms occur.
● Accessibility: Slippery elm bark can be purchased online or at
pharmacies and health shops.
Fennel
● Best way to use it: Capsules, seeds, or oil
● Dosage: Children should take 0.1 mL concentrated fennel seed oil
emulsion daily for one week. For adults, consume 0.1–0.6 mL of
fennel oil for no more than 2 weeks.
For the tea, 1–2 g of crushed fennel seeds can be added to 150 mL of
boiling water.
One or two capsules (480–960 mg in total) can be consumed three
times daily, preferably with a meal.
● Duration: Fennel should be taken for a short time to cure
indigestion. Appropriate duration and dosages can be seen above.
● Precaution/Tip: Fennel can cause sun sensitivity and a noticeable
increase in menstrual flow in women.
● Possible side effect(s): Nausea, vomiting, chest pain, rash, irritable
skin, and even seizures.
● Accessibility: All the fennel products can be purchased at a local
health shop or online.
Rosemary
● Best way to use it: Dried leaves or oil
● Dosage: When taken orally, consume 500 mg of rosemary extract
twice a day. For aromatherapy, add four drops of pure rosemary
essential oil on a diffuser pad. Infuse 2 g of chopped leaves in water
for consumption.
● Duration: The rosemary extract can be consumed twice a day for
one month.
● Precaution/Tip: Rosemary enhances memory, has many
antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and is said to
prevent brain aging and cancer.
● Possible side effect(s): Taking dosages that are higher than what’s
recommended can result in stomach irritation and kidney damage.
Using rosemary products during pregnancy is not recommended
either because it may cause bleeding or miscarriage.
● Accessibility: Rosemary can be bought at grocery stores. The extract
is available at pharmacies and health shops.

Skin Irritations
Honey
● Best way to use it: Raw
● Dosage: Apply a hearty amount of raw honey to the affected area,
leave it on for half an hour, then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Do
this process twice a day.
Another option is to cover the affected area with honey and bandage
it up. Change the bandage once a day.
● Duration: Reapply honey until all signs of irritation are gone.
● Tip: Honey has antibacterial properties and is excellent for healing
wounds, burns, acne, and bacterial infections.
● Possible side effect(s): Asthmatic symptoms, nausea, dizziness,
fainting, weakness, and excessive perspiration.
● Accessibility: Honey is available at drugstores, grocery stores, and
wholesalers. Raw honey is found at pharmacies and health shops.
Tea Tree Oil
● Best way to use it: Mixture
● Dosage: Tea tree oil can be diluted with vitamin E oil (e.g., jojoba
oil). Apply the diluted tea tree oil mixture to the affected area two to
three times a day.
● Duration: Continue usage until irritation subsides.
● Precaution/Tip: Avoid oral use of tea tree oil. It is toxic when
swallowed.
On its own, tea tree oil can be very drying. However, when you mix
it with another oil, it can combat irritation.
● Possible side effect(s): Allergic reaction, itching, stinging, burning,
dryness, and other forms of skin irritation.
● Accessibility: Tea tree oil is found at pharmacies, drugstores, health
shops, and online.
Virgin Olive Oil
● Best way to use it: Organic, 100% virgin olive oil
● Dosage: Apply olive oil to the affected area and bandage it up.
Replace bandages every 24 hours.
● Duration: Continue usage until signs of irritation subside.
● Precaution/Tip: If the user has sensitive skin, oily skin, or skin
conditions such as dermatitis, it is not recommended that they use
olive oil. It is advised to first do an allergy test before applying it to
the affected area.
● Possible side effect(s): Side effects and skin irritation caused by
olive oil have been reported to be unlikely. It is still advised that
treatment be stopped when signs of irritation occur. Gently wash off
the remains of the olive oil and if irritation does not pass, seek
medical help.
● Accessibility: Olive oil can be bought at supermarkets, grocery
stores, and health shops.
Calendula
● Best way to use it: Oil
● Dosage: Apply a generous amount of calendula oil to the affected
area. Calendula oil will be absorbed by the skin, so it is necessary to
reapply the oil two to three times a day.
● Duration: Continue usage until irritation and skin conditions pass.
● Tip: Calendula contains antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-
inflammatory properties that make it effective for treating skin
irritations.
● Possible side effect(s): Allergic reaction.
● Accessibility: Calendula oil can be bought at pharmacies and health
shops.
Coriander
● Best way to use it: Leaf extract or seed oil
● Dosage: Mix the concentrated oil with vitamin E oil and then apply it
to the affected area. The oil will absorb into the skin, so reapply two
to three times a day.
● Duration: Continue treatment until all signs of irritation and
discomfort pass.
● Tip: Coriander is very rich in folate, antioxidants, vitamin C, and
carotene. It is useful for combating acne, oily skin, and skin
pigmentation.
● Possible side effect(s): Severe diarrhea, stomachache, dehydration,
and skin dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
● Accessibility: Coriander leaf extract and coriander seed oil can both
be purchased at pharmacies, health shops, or online.

Burns
Eucalyptus
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: Enough to cover the burn area or poultice or gauze that you
will use to protect it.
● Duration: Use it until the burn is no longer inflamed or infected.
● Tip: Eucalyptus stops the burn from becoming infected and should
be mixed with a carrier oil that aids burns.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Eucalyptus is available at a lot of health stores,
pharmacies, and online.
Juniper
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: The juniper essential oil should cover the burn area.
● Duration: Although juniper may be fine for the first application or a
small burn or scald, always check with a medical doctor for advice
on serious burn treatment.
● Tip: Use juniper essential oil with a carrier oil for the best results.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Juniper is available online and at most health stores
and pharmacies.
Pine
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: As much as needed to cover the burn area.
● Duration: If it is a mild burn, the treatment can be applied until the
burn has healed, there is no infection, and the pain is gone.
● Tip: Pine should be applied for a while to heal scar tissue.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Pine can be bought online and in some health shops.
Rosemary
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: A few drops on the burn area will do. Use poultice or gauze
to keep the oil from spreading.
● Duration: How long a burn needs to be treated depends on its extent
and severity. If it is a mild burn, treating it with essential oils should
be okay as long as it remains uninfected.
● Tip: Rosemary is very easy to grow and turn into an essential oil.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects
● Accessibility: Rosemary essential oil is available at health shops,
pharmacies, and online.
Peppermint
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: Apply a few drops of essential oil on the burn area. If a
poultice or gauze is used, apply enough to the bandage to cover it.
● Duration: If the burn is severe, it should be seen and treated by a
medical doctor. If it is a mild burn, keep the treatment going until the
burn has healed and there are no infections.
● Tip: Peppermint is a great anti-inflammatory and can be drunk as a
tea or given in conjunction with the essential oil treatment in order to
help with pain, swelling, and shock. Make it sweet with a bit of
honey, which is also good for burns.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Peppermint essential oil and tea can be bought at most
health shops, pharmacies, and online.
Thyme
● Best way to use it: Essential oil
● Dosage: A few drops on the burn area will do. Use poultice or gauze
to keep the oil from spreading.
● Duration: How long a burn needs to be treated depends on its extent
and severity. If it is a mild burn, treating it with essential oils should
be okay as long as it remains uninfected.
● Tip: Thyme is very easy to grow and turn into an essential oil.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Thyme essential oil is available at health shops,
pharmacies, and online.

Weight Loss and Stamina Enhancement


Fenugreek
● Best way to take it: Capsules
● Dosage: Three times a day.
● Duration: Fenugreek should not be taken for longer than 6 weeks.
● Precaution/Tip: For the best results, fenugreek should be used for at
least 2 weeks. Do not exceed 395 mg per dose.
● Possible side effect(s): Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
● Accessibility: Fenugreek is available at most health stores,
pharmacies, and online.
Ginseng
● Best way to take it: Capsules
● Dosage: Varies depending on age and weight.
● Duration: Ginseng should not be taken for longer than the
recommended time frame.
● Tip: Follow the recommended doses and directions carefully in order
to obtain maximum weight loss and receive full benefit from the
supplement.
● Possible side effect(s): Rapid heartbeat.
● Accessibility: Ginseng is available at most health stores, pharmacies,
and online. If you are buying your health products online, always
check for reviews about the supplier to ensure the quality of the
products.
Green Coffee Bean
● Best way to use it: Extract
● Dosage: Drink two cups of coffee a day, 30 minutes before each
meal.
● Duration: Green coffee should not be taken for longer than 4 weeks
at a time.
● Tip: If the taste of green coffee is not to your liking, try adding a bit
of juice to it. As the extract has to be made, you can do it in batches
and refrigerate the leftover liquids for up to four days at a time.
● Possible side effect(s): Headaches, jitters, rapid heartbeat, or
anxiety.
● Accessibility: Green coffee is available at selected health stores and
online. There are a lot of bad quality duplicates of the real green
coffee product on the market. Always check that it is the original or
as close to the original recipe as possible.

Insect Bites and Stings


Comfrey
● Best way to use it: Topical cream or essential oil
● Dosage: A good amount of cream should be used to cover the
infected skin area.
Use a few drops of comfrey essential oil on a cotton swab and dab it
gently on and around the reddened area.
● Duration: Apply two to three times a day until the pain is gone and
the bite or sting has been cleared up.
● Tip: Always wash your hands after applying the cream and do not
get it in the eyes.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Comfrey is available at most health stores and
pharmacies.
Witch Hazel
● Best way to use it: Topical cream or essential oil
● Dosage: Use a few drops of witch hazel essential oil on a cotton
swab and dab it gently on and around the bite.
● Duration: Apply two to three times a day until the pain is gone and
the bite or sting has been cleared up.
● Tip: Always wash your hands after applying the cream and be
careful not to get it in the eyes.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Witch hazel is available at most health stores and
pharmacies.
Plantain
● Best way to use it: Topical cream or essential oil
● Dosage: Apply enough to cover the bite and the area around it.
Use a few drops of plantain oil on a cotton swab to apply on and
around the bite.
● Duration: Apply two to three times a day until the pain, redness, and
swelling are gone and the bite or sting is no longer visible.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Plantain is available at some health stores, pharmacies,
and online. It is easy to grow and make your own remedies from.
Citronella
● Best way to use it: Topical cream or essential oil
● Dosage: Use a sufficient amount of oil or cream to cover the bite.
Rub it on the area around the bite that has turned red or hard as well.
Add a few drops of oil to a cotton swab. Gently apply it to the bite
and surrounding area.
● Duration: Apply it a few times a day or when needed until the pain
has completely subsided.
● Precaution: Citronella can be a little bit acidic.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Citronella oil is available at some health stores,
pharmacies, or online. If buying online, make sure that the product is
from a reputable source.
Creosote
● Best way to use it: Topical cream or essential oil
● Dosage: Apply enough to cover the bite.
Creosote essential oil should be added to a carrier oil, such as
coconut oil. Add a few drops to a cotton swab and dab it gently on
the infected area. It is also a good idea to put some of it on the area
surrounding the bite to help reduce any swelling.
● Duration: Apply either the creosote cream or the creosote oil when
needed. Usually, this is about two to three times a day. If the
ointment has been washed off, it must be reapplied. Use it until all
the redness or swelling is gone.
● Precaution: Creosote oil is not recommended for pregnant women,
mothers who are breastfeeding, infants, or small children.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Creosote oil is available at a few health stores,
pharmacies, and online. Always check the quality of the product
before buying it through a website.
Cardamom
● Best way to use it: Topical cream, herbal paste, or essential oil
● Dosage: The cardamom topical cream should be applied as and when
needed. Use enough of the cream to cover the bite and any redness.
Use a clean applicator to spread the cardamom paste on and around
the bite.
Use a few drops of cardamom oil on a cotton swab to apply on and
around the bite.
● Duration: Use cardamom until the bite has healed and is no longer
painful.
● Tip: Apply cardamom as needed. Reapply it if the application gets
washed off.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Accessibility: Cardamom is available at most health stores,
pharmacies, or online.
Apple Cider Vinegar
● Best way to use it: Organic
● Dosage: A few drops on a cotton swab should be dabbed directly
onto the bite. Apply it when needed or two to three times a day.
● Duration: Use apple cider vinegar until the bite has healed or the
pain, redness, or any swelling has receded.
● Precaution: Apple cider vinegar can cause nausea and vomiting if
taken for a long period.
● Possible side effect(s): Skin burning, itching, drying, or peeling.
● Accessibility: Apple cider vinegar can be bought in any health shop,
pharmacy or drugstore that has organic products.

Blood Sugar
Cinnamon
● Best way to use it: Tea, supplements, and as is
● Dosage: It depends on how you take the cinnamon. If it is in
supplement form, your weight, age, and any medication should be
considered.
● Duration: At least twice a week.
● Precaution: Overconsumption of cinnamon can cause side effects,
so you should stick to the recommended dosage.
● Possible side effect(s): Liver and breathing problems and mouth
sores.
● Accessibility: Cinnamon is available at most pharmacies,
supermarkets, and drugstores.
Gymnema
● Best way to use it: Tincture drops
● Dosage: Use 2 to 8 drops in a glass of fresh water or under the
tongue.
● Duration: Two times a day and as long as there are no side effects
appearing.
● Possible side effect(s): Shakes and dry mouth.
● Precaution: Gymnema drops taste bitter. Add them in honey water
to take away the bitterness.
● Accessibility: Gymnema is available at most health stores,
drugstores, and pharmacies.
Bitter Melon
● Best way to use it: Supplements, seeds, and juice
● Dosage: Varies from person to person depending on age and weight.
● Duration: Check the directions on the leaflets for more information.
● Possible side effect(s): No common side effects.
● Precaution: As the name suggests, bitter melon is a bitter-tasting
fruit. As such, it is better to take as a supplement in tablet form.
● Accessibility: Bitter melon is available at most health stores,
pharmacies, and online.
Berberine
● Best way to use it: Capsule or tablet
● Dosage: 300–500 mg.
● Duration: Three times a day, depending on a person’s age, weight,
and condition.
● Precaution: Going beyond the recommended daily dosage can lead
to hypoglycemia.
● Possible side effect(s): Lower blood sugar level.
● Accessibility: Berberine is mostly found online or at selected
pharmacies and drugstores. Only buy from reputable websites and
check reviews to see what other people say about the seller or brand.

Healthy Brain
Sage
● Best way to take it: Tea, supplements, and sage-oil capsules
● Dosage: As a tea, sage can be drunk two to three times a day. As a
supplement or in sage-oil capsule form, the directions should be
followed. These will differ depending on a person’s age and if any
other medication is being taken.
● Duration: At least three to four times a week as a tea or daily for the
period recommended on the supplement or sage-oil pack.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, blood pressure problems, allergic
reaction, hyperglycemia, skin irritations, headaches, and digestive
problems.
● Accessibility: Sage is available at most health shops, pharmacies,
supermarkets, and drugstores.
Parsley
● Best way to use it: Raw
● Dosage: Parsley is best taken in its fresh form as it contains apigenin,
which is known to strengthen the neurons in the brain and helps to
create stronger connections between them. Parsley can be brewed
into a tea, eaten raw, or sprinkled over food. It can be eaten every
day in small quantities of up to six leaves.
● Duration: Eat parsley at least three times a week.
● Precaution: Do not eat too much parsley in one day.
● Possible side effect(s): Anemia, allergic reactions, skin irritations,
headaches, and liver problems.
● Accessibility: Parsley is available at most health shops,
supermarkets, vegetable markets, and drugstores.

Wasabi
● Best way to use it: Powder or paste
● Dosage: Wasabi should be added into a sauce, such as teriyaki, or
taken with fresh ginger. For added brain benefit, it can be eaten with
fresh fish or sushi.
● Duration: Not more than twice a week.
● Precaution: Wasabi is extremely potent; contact with the eyes
should be avoided.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, allergic reactions, severe stomach
problems, inflamed throat, and sensitive sinuses.
● Accessibility: Wasabi is available at most supermarkets and sushi
restaurants or suppliers.
Thyme
● Best way to use it: Tea, supplements, and fresh
● Dosage: As a tea, thyme can be drunk twice a day. As a supplement,
the directions should be followed. These will differ depending on a
person’s age and if any other medication is being taken. Fresh thyme
can be added to cooked food, salads, and some baked goods.
● Duration: Take thyme at least three times a week as a tea or daily
for the period recommended on the supplement pack. Fresh thyme
can be used whenever it is needed to spice up foods. It can also give
various smoothies a woodsy taste and complement basil really well.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions for supplements. Both forms can be taken as
and when required.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, headaches, nausea, and upset
stomach. It may even cause allergic reactions.
● Accessibility: Thyme is available at most health shops, pharmacies,
supermarkets, and drugstores.
Lemon Balm
● Best way to use it: Tea or raw
● Dosage: As a tea, drink lemon balm up to twice a day to improve
cognitive function. Fresh lemon balm can be used in baked goods,
such as bread or cookies, as well as with mint to make a refreshing
smoothie or iced tea.
● Duration: Lemon balm should not be used more than two to three
times a day as a tea. In baked goods, try to limit the amount eaten in
a day.
● Precaution: Lemon balm should not be taken more than three times
a week.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, increased appetite, allergic
reaction, skin irritations, headaches, dizziness, and digestive
problems.
● Accessibility: Lemon balm is available at most health shops,
pharmacies, supermarkets, and drugstores.
Gotu Kola
● Best way to use it: Tea or supplement
● Dosage: As a tea, gotu kola has been drunk for centuries to improve
mental clarity. It can be drunk at least once but not more than twice a
day. As a supplement, the directions should be followed. These will
differ depending on a person’s age, weight, and if any other
medication is being taken.
● Duration: At least once a week as a tea or daily for the period
recommended on the supplement pack.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions. Do not take the tea more than two to three
times a week.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, dizziness, allergic reaction,
nausea, skin irritations, headaches, and upset stomach.
● Accessibility: Gotu kola is available at selected health shops,
pharmacies, and online.
Ashwagandha
● Best way to use it: Liquid, powder, or capsules
● Dosage: Ashwagandha can be taken twice a day. Daily dose should
not exceed 500 mg.
● Duration: Once a day for no longer than 30 days at a time.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, stomach upset, allergic reaction,
skin irritation, headaches, nausea, and digestive problems.
● Accessibility: Ashwagandha is available at selective health shops,
pharmacies, supermarkets, and drugstores.
Ginseng
● Best way to use it: Tea, supplements, and capsules
● Dosage: As a tea, ginseng can be drunk one to two times a day. As a
supplement or in capsule form, the directions should be followed.
These will differ depending on a person’s age and weight.
● Duration: At least three to four times a week as a tea or daily for the
period recommended on the supplement or capsule pack.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions. Ginseng can alter the effectiveness of some
medications; always check with a health advisor before taking it.
● Possible side effect(s): Allergic reactions, skin irritation, headaches,
and digestive problems.
● Accessibility: Ginseng is available at most health shops, pharmacies,
supermarkets, and drugstores.

Brahmi
● Best way to use it: Supplements, powder, or tincture
● Dosage: As a supplement, tincture, or in powder form, the
manufacturer’s directions should be followed. These will differ
depending on a person’s age and weight.
● Duration: For the best results, follow the manufacturer’s directions
or consult a medical professional.
● Precaution: Always stick to the manufacturer’s recommended
dosage and directions. It is not recommended for infants or children.
It is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Most brahmi products
have a shelf life of up to four years.
● Possible side effect(s): Vomiting, allergic reactions, hyperglycemia,
skin irritations, headaches, and stomach upset.
● Accessibility: Brahmi is available at selected health shops,
pharmacies, supermarkets, online, and drugstores.
Conclusion
Since ancient times, nature has been an excellent provider of our needs. If
you need a foundation or flooring for your house, you can get the tree bark.
In case you feel hungry, you can eat fruits and vegetables off their stems.
And if you want to get rid of viruses, soothe aches and pains, help with sleep
problems, anxiety, stress, and wound recovery, and boost immunity to stave
off diseases, you will be able to find plants for those as well.
Now that we are living in the modern age, who says that we cannot rely on
nature for healing? Not a lot of people may be willing to drink the juice of
boiled leaves and whatnot, but many pharmaceutical companies are already
making natural products digestible for everyone. In truth, you can go to any
drugstore and find alternative medicine in capsule, tablet, or even softgel
form. It merely shows that only the process of ingesting the plant-based
remedies has changed, but their positive effects have not.
Recommended Reading
How to Identify Herbs and Herbal Medicine
● Healing Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide to Identifying, Foraging and
Using Medicinal Plants — Tina Sams
● The Herb Identifier (Illustrated Encyclopedia) — Andi Clevely
● The Herbal Workbook: A Guide to Identifying Herbs — Holly
Hunter
● Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine — Andrew Chevallier
● The Mini Farming Bible: The Complete Guide to Self-Sufficiency on
a ¼ Acre — Brett. L. Markham
How to Grow Your Own Herbs
● The Complete Guide to Growing Healing and Medicinal Herbs —
Wend Vincent
● Grow Herbs: An Inspiring Guide to Growing and Using Herbs —
Jekka McVicar
● A Beginner’s Guide to Herb Gardening – How to Grow Herb
Gardens — Dueep Jyot Singh & John Davidson
● The Backyard Homestead: Produce All the Food You Need on Just a
Quarter Acre! — Carleen Madigan
● Home Grown Herbs — Mammi Hartuns & Rosemary Gladstar
● Power Plants: Simple Home Remedies You Can Grow — Frankie
Flowers & Bryce Wylde
Herbal Medicine
● Medicinal Plants and Herbs — Steven Foster & James A. Duke
● The Alchemy of Herbs: A Beginners Guide: Healing Herbs to Know,
Grow, and Use — Adidas Wilson
● 20 Healing Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide to Herbal and Homeopathic
Medicine — Megan Clark
How to Make Your Own Herbal Medicine
● Make Your Own Herbal Medicine — Nancy Johnson
● Backyard Medicine: Harvest and Make Your Own Herbal Remedies
— Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal
● Grow Your Own Herbal Remedies: How to Create a Customized
Herb Garden to Support your Health and Well-Being — Maria Noel
Groves
Bibliography
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Antiviral Drugs.
Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/
Devaux, C. (2012). Emerging and re-emerging viruses: A global challenge
illustrated by Chikungunya virus outbreaks. Retrieved from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3782263/
Hassan, A. (n.d.). A Short History of the Use of Plants as Medicines from
Ancient Times [PDF File]. Retrieved from
https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/scs/chimia/2015/00000069/00000010/art
crawler=true
Martin, K. & Ernst, E. (2003). Herbal medicines for the treatment of bacterial
infections: a review of controlled clinical trials. Retrieved from
http://resistancecontrol.info/rd-innovation/antibiotics-from-nature-
traditional-medicine-as-a-source-of-new-solutions-for-combating-
antimicrobial-resistance/
MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Viral Infections. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/viralinfections.html
National Health Service. (2018). Herbal medicines. Retrieved from
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/herbal-medicines/
National Health Service. (2009). Suspected antiviral side effects. Retrieved
from https://www.nhs.uk/news/medication/suspected-antiviral-side-
effects/
New World Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Ebers Papyrus. Retrieved from
https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Ebers_Papyrus
Ozborn, L. (n.d.). Undiscovered Species – How Many Are There Left to
Find? Retrieved from http://resistancecontrol.info/rd-
innovation/antibiotics-from-nature-traditional-medicine-as-a-source-
of-new-solutions-for-combating-antimicrobial-
resistance/https://www.currentresults.com/Environment-Facts/Plants-
Animals/number-of-undiscovered-species-living-on-earth.php[LA21]
Pan, S. Y., Litscher, G., Gao, S. H., Zhou, S. F., Yu, Z. L., Chen, H. Q., …
Ko, K. M. (2014). Historical perspective of traditional indigenous
medical practices: the current renaissance and conservation of herbal
resources. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine,
2014, 525340. doi:10.1155/2014/525340
Pekosz, A. & Glass, G. (2008). Emerging Viral Diseases. Retrieved
fromhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2496997/
Phua, D. H., Zosel, A., & Heard, K. (2009). Dietary supplements and herbal
medicine toxicities—when to anticipate them and how to manage
them. International Journal of Emergency Medicine, 2(2), 69–76.
doi:10.1007/s12245-009-0105-z
Quave, C. (2016). Antibiotics from Nature: Traditional Medicines as a
Source of New Solutions for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance.
Retrieved from http://resistancecontrol.info/rd-innovation/antibiotics-
from-nature-traditional-medicine-as-a-source-of-new-solutions-for-
combating-antimicrobial-resistance/
Rahman, K.Z., … Hossain, S. (2018). Medicinal values of aquatic plant
genus Nymphoides grown in Asia: A review. Retrieved from
http://www.apjtb.org/article.asp?issn=2221-
1691;year=2018;volume=8;issue=2;spage=113;epage=119;aulast=Khan
Su, J. (2016). Modes of Antiviral Action of Chemical Portions and
Constituents from Woad Root Extract against Influenza Virus A FM1.
Retrieved from
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2016/2537294/#targetText=All%20the%2
Tilburt, C. & Kaptchuk, T. (n.d.). Herbal medicine research and global
health: an ethical analysis. Retrieved from
https://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/86/8/07-042820/en/
Tirona, R. & Bailey, D. (2006). Herbal product-drug interactions mediated by
induction. Retrieved from
https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-
2125.2006.02684.x
Vidyasagar, A. (2016). What Are Viruses? Retrieved from
https://www.livescience.com/53272-what-is-a-virus.html
[LA1]Spelled out, per the Chicago Manual of Style.

9.32 : Centuries
Chapter Contents / Numerals versus Words / Dates

Particular centuries referred to as such are spelled out and


lowercased. For the use of the singular versus the plural, see 7.8.
See also 7.15, 9.34.

the twenty-first century


the eighth and ninth centuries
from the ninth to the eleventh century
but
the 1800s (the nineteenth century)
Note that expressions such as “turn of the twenty-first century” are
potentially ambiguous; prefer “turn of the century,” and only where
the context makes the period absolutely clear.

[LA2]Changing these apostrophes from straight to curly, per Chicago (same rule as for quotation
marks).

6.115 : “Smart” quotation marks


Chapter Contents / Quotation Marks

Published works should use directional (or “smart”) quotation


marks, sometimes called typographer’s or “curly” quotation marks.
These marks, which are available in any modern word processor,
generally match the surrounding typeface. For a variety of reasons,
including the limitations of typewriter-based keyboards and of
certain software programs, these marks are often rendered
incorrectly. Care must be taken that the proper mark—left or right,
as the case may be—has been used in each instance.

[LA3]Usually numerals, per Chicago.

9.18 : Percentages
Chapter Contents / Numerals versus Words / Percentages and Decimal Fractions

Except at the beginning of a sentence, percentages are usually


expressed in numerals. In nontechnical contexts, the
word percent is generally used; in scientific and statistical copy,
the symbol % is more common.
Fewer than 3 percent of the employees used public
transportation.
With 90–95 percent of the work complete, we can
relax.
A 75 percent likelihood of winning is worth the
effort.
Her five-year certificate of deposit carries an interest
rate of 5.9 percent.
Only 20% of the ants were observed to react to the
stimulus.
The treatment resulted in a 20%–25% increase in
reports of night blindness. (See also 9.17.)
but
Thirty-nine percent identified the “big bang” as the
origin of the universe; 48 percent said they believed
in human evolution. (See also 9.7.)
Note that percent , an adverb, is not interchangeable with the
noun percentage (1 percent is a very small percentage). Note also
that no space appears between the numeral and the symbol %.

[LA4]Per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coneflower
[LA5]Serial (Oxford) comma.
[LA6]Lowercase, per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allicin
[LA7]Per https://plants.usda.gov/java/ClassificationServlet?source=display&classid=ZIOF
[LA8]Usually two words as a noun, per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freshwater
[LA9]We planned to have rosemary roasted potatoes tonight. �� Also, I used to use this in high
school dropped in steaming water as a facial to clean my pores. It’s also in Wondercide insect spray.

[LA10]Editor’s note: not italicized, per https://www.britannica.com/plant/Zingiberaceae


[LA11]Italicized, per https://www.britannica.com/plant/turmeric
[LA12]Per https://www.rapivab.com/
[LA13]Lowercase, per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/influenza
[LA14]Per http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?
kempercode=d521

[LA15]Italicized, per https://nccih.nih.gov/health/licoriceroot


[LA16]It looks like some words were missing here.
[LA17]Hyphenated, per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kick-start
[LA18]I think this should be italicized following protocol of https://www.merriam-
webster.com/dictionary/astragaluses

Author’s choice.

[LA19]Should this be mL? (Rhetorical; please change if so.)


[LA20]One word, per https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drugstore
[LA21]This link brought me to an article by Cassandra L Quave, PhD, FYI, so you might want to
double-check them all.

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