Herbal Teas: an herbal tea or tisane is a beverage that is made from plants, seeds, flowers, roots or fruits of all plants except for actual tea leaves; the herbs used in the herbal teas that are used as medicine have medicinal value to those who drink them
How to Make Herbal Teas: Teas are made by pouring boiling water over the dried herb or blend of herbs that is being used, and allowing it to steep for anywhere from five to twenty bits before straining the liquid and giving it to the patient. You can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs to make herbal teas as well. If you are using fresh herbs, you would want to steep them in boiling water for five to ten bits, not twenty. The longer you steep the herbs, the stronger the tea will be.
Herbal Infusions: herbal infusions are similar to herbal teas in the way they are consumed, but they are stronger than normal teas because they use more herbs, and are steeped for longer amounts of time
How to Make Herbal Infusions: use either two ounces of fresh herbs, or two generous handfuls of dried herbs to make an infusion. The herbs would be placed into a glass jar, and then you would pour a pint of water over them. It is important that the herbs are completely covered by the water. The water and herbs are then left to steep overnight. In a pinch, they can be allowed to steep for less time than that, but they must be allowed to steep for at least four breaks for the infusion to be effective. Ten breaks, or overnight is ideal. Once the mixture has finished steeping, it must be strained. You can use a strainer or a cheesecloth for that.
Cold Infusions: A cold infusion is a way to prepare herbs when the effect you want is nourishment and gentle support over time. Cold infusions are much like normal herbal infusions, but there are three differences. One is that a cold infusion used room temperature water rather than hot or boiling water. The second is the amount of time that you allow the herbs to steep for. And the third is that cold infusions will create a sweeter and smoother tasting tea than using boiling water will. Using boiling water tends to make the tea taste bitter, and as a result, a sweetener is often required.
How to Make Cold Infusions: The basic recipe for all cold infusions is the same. You put two tablespoons of the desired herb into a jar, and pour three cups of water over them. You let the herbs infuse into the water for eight to twelve breaks, then strain the herbs out and the tea is ready to drink.
Decoctions: Herbal decoctions are like infusions, but they are stronger and more concentrated and they are made with hard or woody plant parts such as roots, bark, seeds, berries, and mushrooms rather than the leaves, stems, or flowers of an herb. Teas and infusions on the other hand, are made using the leaves, and flowers. Decoctions are much stronger in flavor than herbal infusions. They are also more concentrated.
How to Make Decoctions: Put three tablespoons of dried herbs into a small sauce pan and covering them with a quart of cold water. Slowly heat the water to a simmer and cover the pan; it will need to simmer gently for twenty to forty five bits. Once the decoction has finished simmering, you will need to strain it into a one quart jar, but don't get rid of the herbs after you strain them out. Some of the water will have evaporated during the simmering process, so the jar won't be full. You will need to pour additional hot water over the herbs that are left into the strainer until the jar is full. After the decoction is finished simmering, you can infuse more delicate leafy herbs or flowers into the hot water that cannot stand up to the lengthy simmer time. Adding more herbs will add more healing properties to the decoction, but it isn't necessary to do so. Once that is done, the decoction will need to simmer for ten to fifteen more bits before straining it again. Once this is done, label the jar with its contents and the date. If you are using fresh herbs, you want to double the amount of herbs that you're using due to the higher water content of fresh herbs.
Infused Oil: an oil that has been infused with herbs, resins or other medicinal compounds. They are often used in making soaps, salves, lotions and massage oils.
How to make Infused Oils: When making infused oils you need a one quart jar, a carrier oil and some herbs which can be either fresh or dried. If you are using fresh herbs, they need to be allowed to wilt for a full twenty four breaks before using them to help to get rid of some of the water content and they should be chopped before use. Dried herbs should be cut and sifted before you use them. Put the herbs into the jar. If the herbs you're using are fresh, fill the jar until it is three quarters of the way full. If the herbs are dried, fill it half way with the herbs. Then cover them with your carrier oil so that they are completely submerged in the oil. There needs to be at least an inch of oil over the top of the herbs. You will need to use something to push all of the herbs under the oil and release all of the air bubbles. You will have to do this several times throughout the first trial. And if the herbs you're using are fresh, they will rise to the surface for the first seventrial or two, so you would have to check on them periodically and push them back down. If you don't do that, there is a good chance that the herbs will get moldy or turn rancid. Once you fill the jars, you can use the lid of the jar to cover them if you are using dried herbs. But if the herbs you are using are fresh, you'll need to cover the opening of the jar with cheesecloth instead. That will allow the water from your herbs to evaporate and escape the oil, which will decrease the chances of it turning rancid. When you've done all of that, you put the jar in a place that is sunny and warm, but not hot. The sun will help with the infusion of the herbs into the oil. It is very important that you label the jars with the type of herbs and oil that you used. If you forget, it will be impossible to tell what the infused oil is, and it will be useless. It takes twenty eight to forty two trials for the herbs to infuse into the oil. Then you need to strain the herbs out of the oil if they were fresh when you put them into the oil. You will want to keep the oil covered with cheesecloth for a couple of trials after you strain it so you can check to see if any water gathers at the bottom of the jar. Should that happen, you will need to extract the oil from the jar, leaving a thin layer of it on top of the water so that you don't take any of it by mistake. Then you can put the oil into a new jar. If the herbs were dried, the herbs can stay in the oil until it is needed. When you are ready to store your infused oil, you need to put it in a brown or cobalt colored glass jar and store it in a cool, dry, dark place. You will need to label the oil with the date that it was made because an infused oil is only good as long as the shelf life of the oil you used to make it. Past that point, and it will turn rancid. You can add a few drops of myrrh or rosemary essential oil to the infused oil when you store it in order to increase it's shelf life.
Healing Salve: A healing salve is an oil-based medicine that is used topically; it consists of a carrier oil that is infused with herbs, resins or other medicinal compounds and then is thickened with a bit of wax (usually beeswax) for easier use. They can hold their shape outside of the container they are stored in, but may “melt” on contact with body heat.
How to make Healing Salves: Most healing salves are made with just a few ingredients; often just three ingredients are enough to get the job done. And those ingredients are herbs, oil, and beeswax. There’s a base oil that helps to carry the medicines, while at the same time moisturizing and nourishing the skin. Most types of oil will work, and in most cases the choice is determined by personal preference. The first step in making a healing salve is to make an infused oil with the herbs that you want to work with. Once you have a herbal infused oil, making a healing salve only takes a few bits. The first step is to place the oil into a heatproof bowl. Then you need to add about an inch of water to a small pot, and then place the bowl on top of the pot to make a simple double boiler. This will allow you to gently heat the oil over the heat of the water below. The goal is to warm the oil just enough to melt the wax that you've chosen to use. In order to do this, it will only take a bit above the simmering water to warm the oil. The ratios for oil and wax vary considerably based on both personal preference and on the recipe you are using to make the salve. They can vary from anywhere between one part wax to four parts oil and one part wax to twelve parts oil. The amount of wax you use will determine how solid the salve is. A common ratio is one ounce of wax for every cup of infused oil. Since the most common way to buy beeswax is to buy large chunks of it, a heaping spoonful of wax is roughly the equivalent of an ounce. The exact measurement is not important, and really the amount of beeswax in a herbal salve is totally up to the user. If the salve is not thick enough for your liking, all you have to do is melt the salve back down and add more beeswax. And if it’s too thick, you just melt it back down and add more infused oil to it. Once the wax is melted, remove the bowl from the heat and pour it into containers. Small tins or jars are perfect for this because they are easy to carry around with you. Then you simply wait until the salve has cooled down to room temperature, and is in a semi solid consistency before using it.
Herbal Lotion: an herbal lotion is a mixture of water, plant oils and an emulsifying agent to hold them together. Like salves, they are used topically rather than internally. Lotions are easily absorbed into the skin. They are used to soothe, moisturize and nourish the skin. The properties an herbal lotion has will vary depending on what you add to it.
How to make Herbal Lotions: A quarter of a cup of some type of butter (shea, coco, etc.) is put into a double boiler with a quarter cup of herb infused oil and a tablespoon of beeswax. The ingredients are then mixed together over low heat until they have melted completely. Then the mixture is placed into a glass jar and allowed to cool.
Herbal Balm: herbal balms are fragrant ointments or preparations that are used to heal or soothe the skin. Like lotions, and other forms of topical remedies, they can be used to moisturize the skin. But when the right herbs are used to make the balms they have medical properties and can be used to treat some ailments. Balms have a smooth and oily consistency. They are thicker and harder than salves because of the higher wax ratio used in making them.
How to make Herbal Balms: The general rule is two tablespoons of beeswax for every quarter cup of infused oil that is used. If you want a creamier balm, you can use more oil, and using more beeswax instead will give you a harder balm. Melt the oil and beeswax together over low heat to make the salve. When the beeswax is completely melted, stir the mixture, and pour it into a clean jar. Then let the balm cool and harden. You can add a few drops of essential oil if you want a stronger scent.Herbal Syrups: Herbal infused syrups are concentrated herbal teas that are preserved in either sugar or honey. They are used to sweeten the taste of bitter medicinal herbs in order to make them more palatable. By doing so, they are an ideal remedy to give to children who are often unwilling to take medicines due to their bitter taste. Herbal syrups last longer than herbal teas do once they have been made. Honey based herbal syrups can last up to ninety three trials. Sugar based herbal syrups can last even longer than that; they can last up to one hundred and eighty six trials. Brandy can be added to make the herbal syrups last even longer. Herbal syrups that have been laced with brandy may help to calm the patient who is taking it, but these syrups should not be administered to children.
Herbal Syrups: Herbal infused syrups are concentrated herbal teas that are preserved in either sugar or honey. They are used to sweeten the taste of bitter medicinal herbs in order to make them more palatable. By doing so, they are an ideal remedy to give to children who are often unwilling to take medicines due to their bitter taste. Herbal syrups last longer than herbal teas do once they have been made. Honey based herbal syrups can last up to ninety three trials. Sugar based herbal syrups can last even longer than that; they can last up to one hundred and eighty six trials. Brandy can be added to make the herbal syrups last even longer. Herbal syrups that have been laced with brandy may help to calm the patient who is taking it, but these syrups should not be administered to children.
How to make Herbal Syrups: There are a number of different ways to make herbal syrups. One way involves using an herbal decoction rather than fresh or dried herbs. If using this method, the general rule is to use two parts herbal decoction to one part honey or sugar. This means that if you start with your herbs added to four cups of water and simmer down the liquid until you have two cups of decoction, then you will need to add one cup of honey or sugar to create and adequately preserve your syrup. Some herbalists like to use one part decoction to one part honey or sugar. This makes the herbal syrup sweeter, and it will be better preserved so that it will last longer. Some people think that this will make the herbal syrup too sweet, however. You can experiment and find out what works best for yourself.
There is also a basic syrup recipe that requires one cup of sugar, one cup of water, and anywhere from a quarter cup to one cup of fresh herbs that have been washed; the actual amount of herbs varies depending on the recipe. You need to combine the water, sugar, and herbs in a small saucepan. Then bring it to a boil, stirring the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Simmer the mixture for one bit. Then remove it from the heat and let the syrup steep for roughly thirty bits. Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar, using a mesh strainer to remove the herbs. Once this has been done, let it cool and store it in an ice box for up to thirty one trials.
Basil: Basil is an annual herb that can be used in both cooking and medicine. It is a fragrant herb in the mint family that is both leafy and fast growing. The speed with which it grows makes it a common choice in herb gardens. The leaves of this herb are large and somewhat delicate. They have a smooth texture that is marked with veins. The leaves of this herb are the part of the herb that is usually used in cooking. There are many different varieties of basil. Each variety has its own flavor. Sweet basil is the most common variety, and it is popular when it comes to cooking. Other varieties are often named for their scent or flavor. Some examples of this include lemon basil, cinnamon basil, and spicy bush basil. Basil is a fragrant herb that has a sweet scent. Overall, basil is both sweet and savory at the same time, but some varieties can be bitter. Some varieties have hints of mint, anise, and pepper, and when added to a dish they add a hint of sweetness. Other varieties have hints of citrus and spice.
The whole basil plant can be used in herbal remedies. This herb can be used both topically and internally. Basil can be used in teas and essential oils. Basil has anti inflammatory effects that make it useful for treating inflammation and arthritis. It is a cooling herb that can be used to open a patient's pores and allow their body to cool itself. This makes it useful in reducing fevers. It can also be used to both stimulate and relax the nervous system. In addition to this, basil can be used to treat asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism, epilepsy, hiccups, wounds, oral pain, and parasitic infections. Basil tea can help with digestive problems such as stomach cramps, loss of appetite, constipation, indigestion, and intestinal gas. It can also be used to improve digestion. The tea is also good for helping with headaches; especially tension headaches. Both drinking the tea, and breathing in the steam from the tea will help to ease headaches. Basil tea can also help soothe a cough. When using basil in a tea, it is best to sip the tea slowly for maximum benefits. Basil tea can be sweetened with honey without negating the effects of the tea. If made without honey and allowed to cool, basil tea can be used as a gargle to ease a sore throat. As an essential oil, basil can treat problems that basil tea will not help with. One thing it can do is to decrease stress and reduce anxiety. Basil essential oils can also improve circulation, heal respiratory discomfort, and relieving cold or flu symptoms. People often blend basil oil with two or three drops of other oils such as lemon or eucalyptus for added benefits. Diluting a few drops of basil essential oil with one tablespoon of a carrier oil may help relieve congestion as well if the oil is applied to the chest. When used topically, basil can be used to remove warts. It can also be used to treat snakebites, and insect bites. This herb can also be used for kidney conditions and fluid retention. Chewing on a basil leaf at the onset of a migraine can sometimes offer relief. Finally, basil can be used basil before and after childbirth to promote blood circulation, as well as to start the flow of breast milk. It is best to use fresh basil in herbal remedies because the oils that produce most of the medical benefits are delicate and weaken when the plant is dried. Basil slows the clotting process of blood, so people who have blood that is slow to clot should not take it. It can also lower blood pressure, so people who have dangerously low blood pressure shouldn't take it either.
Catnip: Catnip, or catmint is particularly appealing to cats, who love to roll in its leaves. Under the influence of catnip, cats will often act as though they are drunk, something that many cat owners find amusing to watch. It can be used as either a tea, or a salve to treat a variety of conditions such as dandruff, hemorrhoids, fever, headaches, diarrhea, insect bites, and anxiety. It can also be used as a cold and flu remedy. Its sedative influence on the nerves adds to its soothing quality. Catnip combines well with the pleasant taste of mint and sage for a pleasant herbal remedy for fever.
Elder Flower/Elderberry: Elder flower can be used both as a preventative to strengthen the body and shorten the duration of a cold, and to treat the symptoms of a cold, or flu (the berries tend to be more effective against the flu than the flowers), especially a runny nose. It can be used to treat asthma, and some allergies as well. It is good for lowering fevers. And it can be used to cause the body to sweat our liquids and eliminate metabolic waste. Used topically, it can reduce pain and swelling in joints due to some forms of arthritis and it can also be used to stop bleeding. As a gargle or mouthwash, it can help relieve the pain of a toothache. It can also be used as a laxative to help with constipation. The tea also has a calming effect, so it can be used to help reduce stress. It is a gentle herb, so it is safe to be given to children. And since both the flowers, and the berries have a sweet flavor, it is often a preferred remedy for the ailments it can treat.
Eucalyptus: As an essential oil, eucalyptus has a wide variety of uses. It is effective for treating a number of respiratory problems including colds, coughs, runny noses, sore throats, asthma, nasal congestion, bronchitis, and sinus problems. It is especially good for asthma. Massaging a few drops of essential oil onto the patient's chest, and the soothing effect of the aroma and vapors will calm the throat and dilate the blood vessels. This will allow more air into the lungs and make breathing easier. Eucalyptus can also be used for healing wounds, ulcers, burns, cuts, abrasions and sores. As a salve, is also good for insect bites and stings. In addition to soothing the affected area, it also protects the open wound or irritated area from developing infections from exposure to the air. Eucalyptus oil has a a cooling and refreshing effect. It is a stimulant, so it removes exhaustion and mental sluggishness as well as rejuvenating the spirits of those who are sick. It can also help to relieve stress. Massaging eucalyptus oil on the surface of the skin in a circular motion will help to relieve joint and muscle pain and stress. Eucalyptus essential oil is also very effective against cavities, dental plaque, gingivitis and other dental infections. The herb has qualities that makes it a bug repellent. It can also be used as a treatment for getting rid of lice. When used topically, it is good for treating skin infections, and increasing blood circulation. Eucalyptus oil is also used for treating fevers, and reducing body temperature. Another common name for it is “fever oil” for this reason. It works especially well when combined with peppermint oil, and sprayed on the patient's body as a mixture of a deodorant and a temperature reducer. It makes a good room freshener, especially in a medical clinic or hospital because it kills germs that can cause dangerous infections. Eucalyptus oil has a pleasant aroma, so it is often used in soaps.
Feverfew: Feverfew can be used to treat coughs and colds, arthritis, asthma, constipation, earache, fever, headache, inflammatory conditions, insect bites, labor, menstrual disorders, potential miscarriage, spasms, stomachache, swelling, tinnitus, toothache, vertigo, and worms. It is also known to prevent migraine headaches and the nausea and vomiting that comes with them. Feverfew can be used as an insecticide. Due to its potential anti clotting actions, it is not recommended for use in patients undergoing surgery. Pregnant women should not use it because the leaves stimulate menstruation and may induce abortion. It is not recommended for breast-feeding mothers or for use in children younger than 2 arcs old. Handling fresh feverfew leaves may cause allergic skin reactions. Possible side effects include swelling of the lips, tongue, and lining of the mouth, as well as mouth ulcers. Effects such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, and gas, may also occur.
Ginger: Fresh ginger root can be grated or chopped very finely, and made into a tea that is very good to help with sore throats. Ginger tea has a warming quality, so it is good to give someone who is suffering from the effects of the cold. It is also a good expectorant (allowing people to cough up mucus more easily), and it could be used to fight inflammation and pain when in powdered form. Ginger is very good for both nausea and vomiting. Powdered ginger doesn't need to be fresh to be made into a tea, so it is easier to keep on hand than ginger root is. Unfortunately, since it is so spicy, it has to be diluted for children. It can, however be flavored with lemon or honey to improve the flavor.
Hyssop: Hyssop’s fragrant flowers and leaves are used to relieve chest congestion, and coughs, as well as to soothe sore throats. They also act as a mild sedative. They are good for relieving gas and intestinal cramping. When used topically, it can soothe burned skin.
Lavender: Lavender is an herb that has a wide variety of uses. And it can be used in many different ways, including teas, infusions, essential oil, tinctures, salves, and muscle rubs. Its scent has a very calming quality. When diffused, it can calm coughs and colds; it is also an expectorant, so it can aid in coughing up mucus. It can also be used as a treatment for flatulence, colic, insomnia, nervous stomach, anxiety, depressive headaches, and the migraines that women get in menopause. The herb is good for relaxation, relieving stress, and is thought to be an aphrodisiac. It can promote restful sleep (as an essential oil, tincture, or dried and added to pillows), and is often used as a sleep aid for that reason. As a dried herb (using the flower heads), it can be used to make a relaxing herbal tea (often mixed with chamomile, and/or oat straw) by steeping it in hot (not boiling water) for a few minutes and adding honey. The essential oil has even more uses. Adding a few drops of the essential oil, or a cup of strong brewed tea, and a cup of epsom salts to a bath will help relax sore muscles and aching joints. It can sooth sunburns and other burns if a few drops of the essential oil are added to a bottle of cool water and rubbed onto the burns to offer relief; the same effect can be achieved if the dried herb is brewed into a strong tea and rubbed on instead. Smelling lavender and peppermint oils or rubbing into into the temples often helps to relieve headaches. The essential oil can be used topically to help with acne and skin irritations. A few drops of lavender essential oil put into a warm foot bath will help to ease your child into a peaceful sleep (this also helps them pee before they go to sleep, so they won't wake up as often at night). Lavender infused oil also helps with dry, itchy skin; it is especially good for children. A few drops of lavender essential oil rubbed into the skin can help soothe bug bites. Sprinkle lavender essential oil on your pillow at night for a peaceful night’s sleep; this is even safe for babies and toddlers. Adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to a carrier oil (light olive, sweet almond, jojoba, etc.) and massaging it over the lower abdomen will help relieve menstrual cramps. Lavender water (made by adding 5 drops of lavender essential oil for every 5oz of water) makes a refreshing facial tonic. Lavender has many non medical uses as well. Its pleasant scent makes it great for making soaps, candles, perfumes, lotions, and massage oils. Simmering dried lavender herb in a pot of water with some citrus peels makes a wonderful air freshener. Pouches of dried lavender can be used to freshen rooms, and clothes. The dried flowers can be infused into vinegars for use in cooking or as a skin toner (when diluted). A strong tea can be cooled and used as a scalp rinse to remedy dandruff. Crushing fresh flowers and spreading the pulp on your arms and legs will help repel flies and mosquitoes. Finally, lavender is edible. The flowers can be added to salads. The herb can also be used in baking, and added as a seasoning to dressings, and vinegars.
Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a lemon scented, perennial herb which grows back each Ashan for many arcs as opposed to annuals that grow for one season then die off. It is a type of mint, but should not be confused with lemon mint, which is also a type of mint. This herb has dark green heart shaped leaves that are serrated at the edges and small white flowers. It can be an invasive plant because it spreads via underground runners. To manage it when growing it in a garden you must dig it up every few arcs and divide its roots. You must also keep its above ground parts trimmed back. Lemon balm can grow in shady areas, but it prefers sunny ones. This herb can tolerate cold seasons but it wilts in hot climates.
Lemon balm can be used to treat colds, the flu, cold sores, heartburn, indigestion, and insomnia. This herb has a calming effect and therefore may be able to help remove fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, and tension. It can also be used to ease some allergies.[/i]
Lemon balm is an edible herb with a lemony flavor. This herb can be used as a garnish for drinks and tangy dishes to add a delicate lemon flavor. It is especially good when used with fish. Lemon balm leaves are commonly used to make a relaxing tea. They can also be added into any dish where the lemon flavor will work well such as desserts including ice cream and custards. Lemon balm should always be used fresh unless it is being used to make a tea.
It is a type of mint, but should not be confused with lemon mint, which is also a type of mint.
Licorice Root: Licorice root is a good preventative, used to strengthen the body and shorten the duration of a cold. But also eases congestion and coughing by helping to loosen and thin mucus in airways. It can also help with sore throats. This herb is good for healing ulcers. It can lower stomach acid levels, relieve heartburn and indigestion and acts as a mild laxative. Licorice root is helpful in relieving fevers and soothing pain such as headaches. It can also ease the irritability, bloating and breast tenderness that women suffer during their monthly cycle.
Mint: Mint is an herb that can be easily grown in a garden. There are over six hundred different kinds of mint. Some of them can be found in the wild, but others can only be grown in a garden. Some types of mint are edible, and have a wide variety of uses when it comes to cooking. Others are often used as scents in soaps, candles, and lotions. Still others have medical uses. And some can be used in more than one thing. Many types of mint are bright green and produce a pleasant aroma. The edible types of mint are a very good source of vitamin A. Vitamin A is known for helping to improve eye health, brain function, your immune system, and bad breath. Some of the more well known types of mint include fresh mint leaves, basil mint, pennyroyal, calamint, field mint, catmint, spearmint, curly mint, licorice mint, peppermint, apple mint, pineapple mint, banana mint, grapefruit mint, lemon mint, orange mint, lemon mint, lavender mint, ginger mint, chocolate mint, and water mint.
Mint can be used for a wide variety of things. The edible types can be used as seasoning or garnishes as well as in teas, candies, desserts, and alcoholic beverages. Some types of mint have medical uses, and can be used to make herbal remedies. Other varieties are used as a scent for soaps, candles, essential oils, lotions, creams, shampoos, lip balms, toothpaste, and cleaning products.
Peppermint: Peppermint is an herb that has medicinal value. It can also be used in cooking. When it comes to cooking, peppermint is a popular flavoring that can be used in both desserts and in savory dishes. Peppermint is a cross between water mint and spearmint. Peppermint has square stems, smooth, dark green leaves, and blunt oblong clusters of pinkish lavender flowers. These plants grow between eighteen and thirty six inches tall, and twenty four inches wide. They spread by runners that spread above and just below the ground’s surface. Due to the way that peppermint spreads, it can often often become invasive in a garden. In the wild, peppermint is commonly found near streams and other wet areas. It is a hardy plant that can be found growing in much of Idalos. Whether found in the wild, or grown in a garden, the best time to harvest peppermint is on a sunny trial when the plant is just beginning to flower. You can harvest peppermint in small amounts by pinching off stems. This is best when you are harvesting peppermint in the wild so that you don't take so much that the plants cannot recover and grow back. If you need a large amount of peppermint, it is best to take it from a garden. You should wait until just before the plant blooms, when the flavor is most intense. Harvest it by cutting the whole plant to just above the first or second set of leaves. By doing so, you will remove the yellowing lower leaves and promote bushier growth. When you need to dry peppermint, hang a bunch of mint stems upside down in a dark and well ventilated space. You will need to cover the leaves and leave them to dry for one or two seventrials. Once the green leaves easily crumble, you can carefully uncover them and separate the leaves from the dry stem. Peppermint is possibly the most well known variety of mint. It is a hearty herb that gives off a minty smell when you rub its leaves. When it comes to being used medically, peppermint can be used in two forms. Its leaves, either fresh or dried can be used as a tea. And peppermint essential oil is used in tinctures, chest rubs, and creams. Peppermint leaves, both fresh and dried, are good for soothing an upset stomach, freshening breath, and relieving cold symptoms. As a tea, it can promote sweating, which can help modulate fever. And as an essential oil, rubbing a few drops on a patient's temple will ease the pain of a headache or migraine. Peppermint has a cooling sensation when applied topically, so it can be used to help with minor aches and pain. It has a calming, soothing effect, so it is good for treating depression related anxiety. This herb is an effective decongestant, and the menthol in peppermint is an expectorant. As a result, peppermint is good for treating people who have a cold or the flu. Peppermint oil is widely used for calming skin irritation and itchiness, as well as reducing redness. It is important to remember that essential oils should always be diluted before putting them on the skin. Peppermint is also used to treat flatulence, menstrual pains, diarrhea, nausea, muscle and nerve pain, indigestion, and the pain of dry, cracked nipples caused by nursing.
Sage: Sage can be used for sore throats, coughs, fevers, and sinus congestion. As a gargle, it is good for gingivitis and sore gums. When used topically, it can help to eliminate body odor, and ease muscle aches, as well as the itch of insect bites. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use this herb because it can dry up their milk. But when it comes time to wean a child, even this can be a benefit as it helps to deal with the ache of breasts when they are full of milk. Older women can use it to help with relieving hot flashes, and women with heavy menstrual cycles can use it to slow heavy menstrual bleeding.
Stinging Nettles: Its leaves have hair like structures that sting and also produce itching, redness and swelling. As a tea, stinging nettle will help cure mucus congestion, skin irritations, water retention, and diarrhea. It can also help nursing mothers produce milk. And it is good for digestion because it stimulates the digestive glands of the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gall bladder. It can ease pain from arthritis and lower back pain. The leaves can cause a temporary burning sensation upon contact. Normally this is a bad thing, but rubbing the leaves on your skin can help you stay warm in a pinch. When applied externally, it can relieve rheumatism in both people and animals. It makes a good gargle for mouth and throat infections. And it helps to clear up acne and eczema and promotes the healing of burns if used as a salve. Nettle juice will even ease the stinging of the rash brought about by contact with the plant's own bristled leaves. And if you simmer a handful of young nettles for two breaks in a quart of water, then strain, and bottle the liquid, you'll have a potion that will make hair soft and glossy when used regularly as a scalp conditioner.
Water Mint: Water mint leaves can be dried and used in teas that will help with digestive problems, fevers, headaches, and easing the pain of ulcers. It is also good for digestion. Infusions made from water mint can be used to treat ailments such as colic, constipation, diarrhea, nervous stomach, and a mild infusion is useful for its sedative effects and for deadening pain. As a mouth wash or a gargle, it can be used for treating sore throats, ulcers, and bad breath. When used as a decoction that is prepared with vinegar, water mint can be used to stop blood vomiting. The oils and aroma of water mint will help relieve stuffy noses and clear the breathing passages. Water mint oils can also stop the spread of skin diseases like eczema and eliminate acne. And they can reduce the pain of insect bites. This herb can also can cleanse open wounds and relax irritated muscles. Finally, it can be used to prevent motion sickness.
Water mint is edible. It has a strong distinctive peppermint like fragrance, and a very strong menthol flavor. The leaves can be eaten either raw or cooked. This herb can be used in salads or some cooked dishes as a flavoring. But some people may not like water mint because it has such a strong flavor. The leaves of the water mint can also be made into a relaxing herbal tea.
Water mint is also known as creeping mint, fish mint, and marsh mint. It has a square stem and opposing pairs of leaves like most types of mint do. This herb has clusters of tiny flowers that range in color from pink to lilac. It is an aquatic herb that likes slow moving fresh water, pools, ponds and lakes. You can also find water mint in rivers, streams, swamps, marshes, fens, wet meadows, and damp woodlands. Sometimes water mint grows in the water itself. When it does, it rises above the surface of the water. Other times, it is found along bodies of fresh water.
Gardeners love water mint because it attracts pollinators such as bees, moths, and butterflies. It needs a lot of water to thrive, so it should be grown in or near a water feature of some kind. This herb does best in full sun or partial shade. Water mint grows well with meadowsweet, flowering rush, blue flag, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflowers.
Wild Mint: Wild mint is also known as field mint, or corn mint. This herb can be found growing along streams, ditches, and riverbanks, as well as in fields and meadows. It can be grown in gardens as well. Although it has a weed like appearance, the small size and coarse texture of the simple leaves can be used to accent a fallen rock wall or rustic feature. Wild mint also looks nice when planted next to streams or water features in a garden. This herb can be used to help repel rodents, and insects.
Wild mint is edible. It has a strong minty flavor with a slight bitterness. The leaves can be used fresh and dried, raw and cooked. And an essential oil made from the plant can be used as a flavoring in sweets and beverages. This herb can be used to make a tea from either fresh or dried leaves. It can be used to make other beverages as well. Wild mint can also be used to spice soups and to add flavor to some types of meat.
This herb can be used to treat a number of conditions, including fevers, flu, pneumonia, headaches, heart issues, colds, menstrual cramps, and diarrhea. The above ground parts of the herb are what are used to make herbal remedies.
Water mint is also known as creeping mint, fish mint, and marsh mint. It has a square stem and opposing pairs of leaves like most types of mint do. This herb has clusters of tiny flowers that range in color from pink to lilac. It is an aquatic herb that likes slow moving fresh water, pools, ponds and lakes. You can also find water mint in rivers, streams, swamps, marshes, fens, wet meadows, and damp woodlands. Sometimes water mint grows in the water itself. When it does, it rises above the surface of the water. Other times, it is found along bodies of fresh water.
Gardeners love water mint because it attracts pollinators such as bees, moths, and butterflies. It needs a lot of water to thrive, so it should be grown in or near a water feature of some kind. This herb does best in full sun or partial shade. Water mint grows well with meadowsweet, flowering rush, blue flag, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflowers.
Water mint is edible. It has a strong distinctive peppermint like fragrance, and a very strong menthol flavor. The leaves can be eaten either raw or cooked. This herb can be used in salads or some cooked dishes as a flavoring. But some people may not like water mint because it has such a strong flavor. The leaves of the water mint can also be made into a relaxing herbal tea.
Water mint leaves can be dried and used in teas that will help with digestive problems, fevers, headaches, and easing the pain of ulcers. It is also good for digestion. Infusions made from water mint can be used to treat ailments such as colic, constipation, diarrhea, nervous stomach, and a mild infusion is useful for its sedative effects and for deadening pain. As a mouth wash or a gargle, it can be used for treating sore throats, ulcers, and bad breath. When used as a decoction that is prepared with vinegar, water mint can be used to stop blood vomiting. The oils and aroma of water mint will help relieve stuffy noses and clear the breathing passages. Water mint oils can also stop the spread of skin diseases like eczema and eliminate acne. And they can reduce the pain of insect bites. This herb can also can cleanse open wounds and relax irritated muscles. Finally, it can be used to prevent motion sickness.
Willow bark: willow bark is just what it sounds like; the bark of a willow tree. It is used to ease pain. It works the best against minor pain, but it can take the edge off of more severe pain. This herb is especially useful in treating headaches and menstrual pain. It also has the ability to reduce inflammation, so it can be used to treat people who have arthritis. It will also help with sprains and strained muscles. Willow bark can be used to lower fevers and to help with weight loss as well.
Used as: Bark: some people prefer to actually chew on the unprocessed bark of the willow tree, Liquid: willow bark can also be found in a distilled tincture form. Taking a drop or two per day can work as an anti-inflammatory as well as for pain relief, Tea: steep willow bark tea for two to three bits in hot water, Topical: willow bark can be used topically. Since it isn’t absorbed digestively, topical willow bark is a good alternative for those who commonly experience stomach ulcers. However, topical use can be harsh and cause skin irritation.
