The goodness of herbs

After a month of procrastination, here’s my blog on herbs. Tada!

I have been dreaming of a perennial herb garden since last year when dad and me lovingly dug out a section of our garden for herbs. I didn’t have much success from my last year crops, and had only Korean Licorice mint and thyme to show for it. This year my herb garden has grown, and I sincerely hope and pray that all I have planted will survive and come back next year. The list is: marshmallow, roman chamomile, echinacea, astragalus, lavendar, comfrey, lemon balm and oregano so far. I have yarrow, stinging nettles, tulsi, peppermint, ashwagandha and garden sage still in the greenhouse. The purpose of this blog is to outline the usage of these herbs for our future reference. But first some lush pics.

Herbs in the greenhouse

More herbs in the greenhouse

Lavendar, comfrey, lemon balm and echinacea

Korean Licorice mint and astragalus

Harvested herbs dry out for 2 weeks in the greenhouse

Once dry, crumble and store for winter

Now the technical stuff. After the research, I now realize that I will have to categorize the herbs according to their applications in order to ever get use out of this information. The categorization will be a part of subsequent blog. I am too herbed out at this moment to write this blog anymore!

Ashwagandha

Introductory remarks: Known as Indian ginseng. Is an effective cancer and diabetes fighter. Also reduces inflammation, arthritis, asthma, hypertension, stress and rheumatism. Boosts antioxidants and regulates immune system. Has antibacterial and anticonvulsant properties.

Uses:

Anti-carcinogenic: Reduces cancer as well as effects of radiation.

Anti-inflammatory: Usable for rheumatologic problems.

Antibacterial: Effective in urinogenital, GI and respiratory tract infections when consumed orally.

Cardio-protective: Strengthens heart muscles and controls cholesterol.

Anti-depressant: relieves anxiety and depression.

Fights diabetes and stimulates the thyroid gland: Lowers blood sugar levels, and root extract increases the secretion of thyroid hormones.

Relieves stress: Soothes and calms.

Antioxidant: Very effective in scavenging and neutralizing free radicals.

Immunomodulatory: Modulates immune system significantly.

Increases blood production: Prevents anemia.

Aphrodisiac: Used to improve vitality and fertility.

Prevents seizures

Good health: Improves muscular strength of lower limbs and weakness. Has a positive impact on neuro-muscular coordination.

Reduces ocular diseases: fights cataract.

Fights alzheimer’s disease.

How to use: Root is most useful, but you can make tea from leaves as well. 1-2 tsp of root for general well being.

One tsp of root powder along with a glass of hot milk before going to sleep.

Berries are also used for medicine.

Caution:

Can cause abortion in pregnant women, can interact with regular medications for those suffering from diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Can cause upset stomach, diarrhea and nausea.

Astragalus

Introductory remarks: Root is one of the most powerful immune building plants on the planet. Lowers cortisol, aka stress hormone and fights disease at the same time. Vital for cardiovascular health. Fights off tumors and alleviates symptoms of chemotherapy (not sure if that means the effects of chemotherapy?). Is used as an adaptogen (helps adapt to stress and exert a normalizing effect on bodily processes. Another example is ginseng). Can grow 16 – 36″ tall. Only roots are medicinal, and are harvested at 4 years. This is bad news. This plant is a perennial in zone 6-11. The best idea is to grow them separately and add plants every year, and mark to harvest every 4 years. Components beneficial to human health are saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides. Saponins lower cholesterol, improve immune system and prevent cancer. Flavanoids provide health benefits through cell signaling. They show antioxidative qualities, control and scavange off free radicals and help prevent heart disease, cancer and immunodeficiency viruses. Polysaccharides are antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

Uses: Anti-inflammatory, immune booster, slows or prevents growth of tumors, protects cardiovascular system by preventing plaque buildup in the arteries and protecting the inner walls of the vessel. Reduces blood pressure and level of triglycerides. Regulates and prevents diabetes and other illnesses related to diabetes and kidney diseases in diabetics. Antioxidant and possesses anti-aging capabilities. Heals wounds and raises efficacy of chemotherapy. Treats colds and flu (best if used to prevent illness by regular intake during susceptible periods). Is a supplemental therapy for chronic asthma. Prevents collagen degradation, promotes growth and function of new blood vessels in newborns, inhibits herpes simplex virus, prevents replication of viruses such as Coxsackie B-3 which triggers many illnesses, treats eczema, treats hepatitis, treats HIV and is a mild diuretic.

How to use: As a tincture (liquid alcohol extract), capsules and tablets, topically on skin, dried and use in tea.

Warnings: No serious side effects. Start with small dose to prevent effects from interactions with other supplements. People with autoimmune disorders should ask a doctor about the effect of immune system stimulation. Individuals with MS, rheumatoid arthritis and other immune conditions may be sensitive to astragalus.

Comfrey

Introductory remarks: Comfrey is a controversial herb. Its use in Chinese traditional medicine spans 2000 years. Comfrey baths were common during the middle ages. Comfrey is widely known as “one of nature’s greatest medicinal herbs”.

Caution: Banned from ingestion in many parts of the world due to toxic effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in comfrey. It can cause fatal damage to the liver, or also cause cancer. Although traditional herbalists dispute it, I would say better safe than sorry. So use only externally on an unbroken skin.

Uses: Comfrey is high in Calcium and Vitamin C and stimulates healing activity. Great for healing wounds and broken bones. In folk medicine it is sometimes referred to as knitbone. Externally it is an anti-inflammatory and speeds healing due to its natural concentration of allantoin. Esp good for cracks in toes or ribs which is not handled by doctors. Found an experience of someone who applied comfrey leaf + plaintain to broken toe several times a day. Instead of typical healing time of several weeks, pain reduced in days, and was virtually non-existent in a week.

Echinacea

Introductory remarks: Chemicals contained in the root differ significantly from those in the upper parts of the plant (probably true for all herbs?). Roots contain high concentrations of volatile oils, while shoot contain polysaccharides that trigger immune function (immune stimulator). Shoot is more effective than root (good news!).

Uses: Boosts immune system by cutting chances of catching a cold by 58% and reducing the duration of a cold by 1.5 days. Most effective dosage: 10 mg Echinacea per 1 kg of body weight taken daily over a 10 day period. The effect of Echinacea seem more powerful once cold symptoms start.

Other uses:

Natural Cancer cure.

Alleviates pain in bowels, headaches, pain associated with herpes, gonorrhea, measles, snake bites, sore throats, stomach ache, tonsillitis and toothache. To use as a pain combatant drink herbal tea or make a paste out of ground herb and directly apply.

Laxative. Heals stomach and entire gastrointestinal tract. Mild laxative for constipation relief. Drink as a herbal tea, a cup a day to loosen bowels and 2-3 cups for sudden bouts. Do not overuse, maybe 2 cup limit might be safe + supplement.

Anti-inflammatory: Inflammation is the root of most diseases. Regular echinacea consumption can effectively reverse and alleviate various types of inflammations. Helps with eye inflammation and chronic inflammations such as rheumatoid arthritis. If chronically inflamed, use echinacea as a herb tea.

Helps improve mental health: Natural remedy for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression and social phobias. Dosage is key. Only 20 mg at a time and no more. Taking more may cancel out the benefits.

Relieves upper respiratory issues such as acute sinusitis, all flu’s, common cold, croup, diphtheria, inflammation, strep throat, tuberculosis and whooping cough. If severe, use supplements rather than tea. For mild, use tea.

Fights infection such as vaginal infection, bloodstream infections, genital herpes, gum disease, malaria, syphilis, typhoid, urinary tract infections and vaginal yeast infections.

Improves skin problems such as arthropod bites, eczema, inflammatory skin conditions, psoriasis, snakebite, skin infections, stings and wound healing. Can be also used to regenerate skin. Use as a paste(?).

Side effects: Can cause nausea and dizziness particularly to those who have allergies. Injected echinacea can cause severe reactions.

Recommended uses: Regular daily use is beneficial for immune support and overall health. Take as soon as symptoms occur, many times a day for 7 to 10 days. Liquid form may be more effective than capsules. Use an alcohol free preparation.

Garden sage

Introductory remarks: Member of mint family. Closely related to rosemary. Grows 2 feet high.

Uses:

Natural antiseptic, preservative and has bacteria killing abilities in meat. Medicinally use for muscle aches, rheumatism and aromatherapy. Enhances mental clarity and upgrades memory. Useful for treating cognitive decline and Alzheimers. Tea made from sage called “thinker’s tea” reduces depression.

Prevents cardiovascular disease, antioxidant, fights inflammation, bronchial asthma and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Has Vitamin K, fiber, Vitamin A, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese and B vitamins such as folic acid, thiamine, pyrodixine and riboflavin plus vitamin C, E, thiamine and copper.

Reduces post menopausal hot flashes.

How to use: In cooking or as tea.

Korean Licorice mint

Considered a “warming” herb. Used in situations where there is “dampness” within the digestive system, resulting in poor digestion and reduced vitality. Leaves and stem are antibacterial, antifungal, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge and stomachic. Used to improve appetite and strengthen the digestive system. They remove symptoms such as abdominal bloating, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. Used against morning sickness, chest congestion, diarrhea and headaches. Used to treat angina pains. Folk remedy for cancer.

Lavender

Introductory remarks: This herb makes me smile! It is the most delightful herb to have in the garden for its divine smell. Lavender has antiseptic qualities that help keep pests at bay. For this reason it was historically used in Europe for linen washing. Its smell prevents attacks from moths and other insects such as flies and mosquitoes. Oil of lavender, on cotton wool, or in a bag hung in a room keeps it free from flies. Lavender is part of the mint family. Bees love lavender.

Uses: Anti bacterial and anti fungal. Place lavender sachets in drawers or closets. Remedy for digestive issues, relieves flatulence, headaches, nausea, grief and stress. Sedative, antidepressant, hypnotic, anti-microbial, cholagogue (promotes discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward).

Digestive aid: Safe for children and elderly. Other digestive aids in a similar vein are catnip, chamomile and lemon balm.

Rejuvenating, skin simulating bath, esp for pregnancy.

Preparation and Dosage: 1-2 tsp of the flower or herb with flower per 8 oz water as an infusion, drunk up to 3 times a day. Alternatively use externally as an essential oil, rubbed into the temples.

Side effects: None known, although its tonic use may be constitutionally inappropriate. For instance if skin or mucous membrane is too dry, long term internal use may be too drying.

Lemon balm

Introductory remarks: Member of the mint family. Considered a calming herb. Reduces stress, anxiety, promotes sleep, improves appetite, eases pain and discomfort from indigestion, lifts spirits, helps heal wounds and treat venemous insect bites and stings.

Uses:

Insomnia and anxiety: Lemon balm + other calming herbs (valerian, hops and chamomile) reduces anxiety and promotes sleep.

Herpes: Topical ointment with lemon balm may help heal cold sores (lips) caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). Cream helps heal oral as well as genital herpes. Helps against HIV infection.

Helps treat indigestion. Lemon balm oil has antibacterial activity and is effective against listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus auerus. Also may help improve cognitive function and decrease agitation in people with Alzheimer disease.

Essential oil from leaf contains plant chemicals called terpenes which helps in relaxation and is antiviral. Also contains tannins helping antiviral activity and eugenol which calms muscle spasms, numb tissues, and kills bacteria.

How to use: Dried leaf tea, extracts, tinctures, and oil. Can apply tea on skin with cotton balls. Use with children to treat cold sores.

Adults: 1.5-4.5 grams tea. Drink up to 4 times daily.

For cold sores, steep 2-4 tsp crushed leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10-15 min covered. Apply with cotton balls.

Caution: May interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible interactions: Sedatives and thyroid medications, or HIV medications.

Marshmallow

Leaves and root are used to make medicine. Used for pain and swelling (inflammation) of the mucous membrane the line the respiratory tract. Used for dry cough, inflammation of the lining of the stomach, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, constipation, urinary tract inflammation, and stones in the urinary tract. Apply leaf and root directly to skin for pockets of infection (abscesses) and skin ulcers, and as a poultice for skin inflammation or burns, and for other wounds. Use topically as a poultice for insect bites. Root is applied to skin as an ingredient in ointments for chapped skin as well as for pain and swelling of feet and hands do to exposure to the cold (chilblains). In food, marshmallow leaf and root can be used as a flavoring agent. Marshmallow forms a protective layer on the skin and lining of the digestive tract. It also contains chemicals that might decrease cough and help heal wounds. Root is the ultimate gut and lung protector.

Oregano

Introductory remarks: The name “Oregano” means “mountain joy”. Oregano was revered as a symbol of happiness by ancient Greeks and Romans.

Uses:

Oregano contains Vitamin A, C, E and K as well as fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium and potassium.

Oregano has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-fungal effects, and may kill MRSA, listeria and other pathogens. Contains Carvacol and thymol which as powerful antimicrobials. Essential oil kills MRSA at dilution 1 to 1000. Oil kills MRSA as liquid as well as vapor and antimicrobial activity is unaffected by heat in boiling water. Contains beta-caryophillin (E-BCP) which inhibits inflammation.

Oregano essential oil may be useful for respiratory ailments like cold and flu.

Adding oregano to meat before cooking may help reduce the amount of toxic compounds created by the cooking process.

Antioxidant for immune support – contains rosamarinic acid which is a strong antioxidant. Even a better antioxidant than food groups such as fruits, berries and vegetables.

Cancer-fighting: Oregano extract has been shown to arrest growth of colon cancer cells. Also usable against prostrate, breast, skin, leukemia and colon cancer.

Use for cold, dandruff, bloating, allergies, fatigue, muscle pain, bronchitis, headaches, intestinal parasites, repelling insects, acne, toothache, heart conditions, earache and menstrual cramps.

How to use:

Fresh or dried in food. Esp in meat prior to cooking.

Topically for athlete’s foot or nail fungus.

Inhaled to treat sinus infections or colds.

Under tongue to help treat infections or parasites.

Peppermint

Introductory remarks: Many health benefits. Grows like a weed.

Uses: Irritable bowel syndrome, reduction of colonic spasms (relaxes muscles of intestines allowing gas to pass and easing abdominal pain), peppermint + caraway oil eases functional dyspepsia, colic, prevents nipple cracks from breastfeeding, regresses tuberculosis inflammation, inhibit histamine release (alleviates hay fever symptoms), remove shingles related pain through peppermint oil application, improve memory (from aroma of peppermint), reduce chemotherapy induced nausea, inhibits prostrate cancer growth, protects against DNA damage and cell death caused by radiation exposure, inhibits herpes simplex virus type 1, mouthwash inhibits dental cavities and bad breath, acts as a decongestant, relieves headache, stress, removes dandruff and lice, relieves asthma and muscle pain.

How to use: Tea, in soups and salads, essential oil (add to home made cleaning supplies for its antimicrobial power). Use against cold and flu.

Roman Chamomile

Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, flatulence due to mental stress, morning sickness and menstrual cramps. Use against pain and swelling of the lining of nose and mouth, sinusitis and joint (rheumatic) disorders. Apply directly to skin for pain and swelling (inflammation), and in gels to treat cracked nipples, sore gums and irritation of the skin. Use topically for wounds, burns, eczema, frostbite, diaper rash, bedsores, and hemorrhoids. Sometimes mixed with other herbs (?) and taken by mouth for liver and gallbladder disease, gall stones, fatty liver, chronic heartburn, loss of appetite, digestive disturbances, a heart condition called Roemheld’s syndrome, indigestion in infants and certain types of constipation. A blood purifier and a general female tonic against irregular periods. Put in steam bath and inhale for sinus inflammation, hay fever, sore throat, ear inflammation and as a painkiller.

Depending on the dose, it can either relieve or cause nausea (?). Relaxes muscles and causes sedation.

Stinging Nettles

Introductory remarks: For more than 2000 years, healers have recognized nettles ability to stop internal and external bleeding. Can get as tall as 7 feet. Historically in Europe, fabric was woven from thick stems of nettle.

Nettles contain tannic acid, lecithin, chlorophyll, iron, silicic acid, lime, potassium, phosphorus, sulfur, sodium, chlorine, vitamin A and C.

Uses:

Stops internal and external bleeding.

Considered a blood purifier. Taken as a tea it cures mucus congestion, skin irritations, water retention and diarrhea. Helps nursing mothers produce milk. Stimulates digestive glands of the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas and gall bladder. Applied externally, nettle tea relieves rheumatism in people and animals. Makes a gargle for mouth and throat infections. Clears acne and eczema and promotes healing of burns.

Nettle juice even eases the stinging of the rash brought about by contact with the plant’s own bristled leaves. If you simmer a handful of young nettles for two hours in a quart of water, strain and bottle the liquid, you can use as a conditioner for soft and glossy hair.

How to use: As a tea, as a conditioner. Using a glove and knife gather young tender plants in April or May when they are 6″ tall. Wash them in running water. Place them still dripping in a saucepan. Steam the greens covered for about 20 mins and then chop and serve with salt, pepper and butter. Add nettle greens to soup, make a scottish nettle pudding with leeks, broccoli and rice or brew a herbal drink similar to ginger beer. Fresh leaves, when boiled in well salted water for 10 minutes, can be used (like rennet) to curdle milk for cheesemaking.

When dried, the plant is 40% protein. Nettle fodder can make cows give more milk and if crushed and given to chicken, induces them to lay more eggs. 7% nitrogen making it an excellent mulch or fertilizer.

Hang a bunch of fresh leaves to repel flies.

Thyme

Originates from Greek word “Thymus” which means “courage”. There is also a dual meaning “to fumigate”. Used primarily as a food preservative. Has been used to treat melancholia to epileptic seizures. In ancient times Thyme was used with lavendar sprinkled on church floors to eliminate odors. Used to treat intestinal worms, gastrointestinal ailments, bronchial problems, lack of appetite, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, common cold and laryngitis. In Germany it is used to treat whooping cough and emphysema. Its antiseptic qualities make it useful for a mouthwash to combat tooth decay, and also for anemia and skin cleanser. Antifungal properties can be used to treat athlete’s foot, and anti parasitic properties are useful against lice, scabies and crabs. Useful against colic, sore throats and hangover. Can loosen and expel mucus.

To use on skin inflammation, mash leaves into paste. For antifungal or anti parasitic, mix 4 oz fresh thyme + 1 pint vodka. Crush thyme slightly and let sit 12 hours or overnight. For gastric and bronchitis, make a tea with 1 teaspoon leaves to each cup of boiling water and steep for 10-15 minutes. Use only once a day.

Infusions of thyme are useful in soothing and healing muscle spasms and skin irritations. Thyme also helps prevent blood clots. Add thyme essential oil or infusion to bath water to soothe bronchial problems and rheumatism.

Burning thyme repels insects.

Tulsi or Holy Basil

Introductory remarks: Tulsi has been used in the East for 3000 years. Mentioned in Rig veda in 1500 BC, it was highly regarded in Ayurvedic medicine. A tropical plant, it is used for its healing powers.

Uses: Used to treat anxiety, adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism, acne and blood sugar.

Acne: Its antimicrobial capability makes it very potent against acne at a 3% concentration. Primary component in holy basil oil is eugenol, same as in antimicrobial clove oil. If using tulsi for natural acne treatment use unrefined virgin coconut oil.

Cancer: Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties protect against fever, pain, stress and protect vital organs like the liver. Consequently people who regularly consume tulsi are less likely to be immune-compromised and are less susceptible to developing cancer cells.

Phytochemicals in tulsi prevent chemical-induced skin, liver, oral and lung cancers because they increase antioxidant activity, alter healthy gene expressions, induce cancer cell death, prevent blood vessel growth contributing to cell growth and stop metastasis.

Extracts of tulsi protects against radiation-induced sickness and mortality and selectively protect normal tissues against the destructive effects of radiation. Additionally it prevents radiation-induced DNA damage which highlights holy basil’s widespread ability to heal.

It is actually remarkable that tulsi can kill cancer, prevent cancer and even protects the body from dangerous cancer treatments.

Diabetes: Natural diabetes remedy.

Thyroid and hormones: In addition to controlling blood sugar levels, it has the ability to regulate serum cortisol levels.

How to use: Drink a cup of tulsi tea a day.

Yarrow

Introductory remarks: According to Greek myth Archilles painted himself with yarrow to make himself invulnerable to arrows, everywhere on his body except his heel. Native Americans used it extensively. Stalk is chewed on to break a fever. Stalk was also pounded into a pulp and applied to bruises, sprains and swelling.

Uses: Fever, common cold, hay fever, absence of menstruation, dysentery, diarrhea, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal (GI) tract discomfort, and to induce sweating.

Chewing on fresh leaves relieves toothache.

Yarrow is applied to skin to stop bleeding from hemmorrhoids, for wounds, and as a sitz bath for painful, lower pelvic, cramp-like conditions for women.

Used in combination with other herbs to relieve flatulence, bloating, mild GI cramps and other GI complaints. Often combined with Echinacea, elder flower, ginger and peppermint.

Young leaves and flowers are used in salads.

Anti-inflammatory.

How to use:

Tea with mint and chamomile during illness.

As a tea, tincture or poultice on skin for rashes or itching.

Adds to skin lotions, oils or salves to help in eczema or dry skin.

Add strong yarrow tea to a child’s bath for a high fever to bring it down naturally.

Poultice of yarrow and plantain helpful on wounds

Caution: Potential allergic reaction from touching the fresh plant.

References:

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-ashwagandha-or-indian-ginseng.html

https://draxe.com/astragalus/