Many people these days know the reputation of Chamomilla recutita (chamomile) tea to help relax the body and mind. Chamomile tea bags are commonplace now on all supermarket shelves. Whilst chamomile does indeed have calming, relaxing and gentle sedative properties it is a herb with many more uses too. [Read more…] about Chamomile – one of Natures (and Herbalists) Little Helpers
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Rose – more than just a symbol of love?
February, and Valentines Day in particular are long renowned for romance, affection and love, often symbolised to our beloveds by the giving of roses! Roses are fine looking flowers, full of beauty, colour and fragrance brightening our senses, hearts, minds and countryside! The Rose, however, is much more than that and is commonly used by modern day Medical Herbalists continuing age old traditional use for its medicinal virtues. [Read more…] about Rose – more than just a symbol of love?
Herbal Corner – The Winter Chills!
When it’s freezing outside, so how can we combat those winter chills? Well, there are some things we can do that don’t involve taking herbs at all. Firstly, when you go outside wrap up warm; putting a scarf around your neck to cover your nose and mouth will help to filter the cold air and shelter your respiratory tract from the wind. Many years ago, before the days of electricity and gas, our sleep patterns were more in line with the day and night time hours. It’s during the season of long nights and short days that we need more sleep. When our body is resting it helps repair itself, sleep is indeed a great healer! [Read more…] about Herbal Corner – The Winter Chills!
Detox: “What on Earth does that Mean???”
With the new year festivities behind us we are forever being reminded what a good idea it is to ‘detox’. Many expensive and branded so called ‘health’ products, as well as juices and smoothies, are sold to us to ‘aid detox’. How many of us actually understand what ‘detox’ means?
Well, we all know how our bodies feel when we have over-indulged – tired, heavy, bloated, digestive problems. Some may develop skin problems or aches and pains. [Read more…] about Detox: “What on Earth does that Mean???”
Can’t Shift Those Winter Coughs & Sneezes?
Well, here we are at the beginning of 2012, a new year and a new start! With the festivities behind us often people feel sluggish and generally over-indulged. The body is still working hard to deal with the animal protein and fat rich foods we all love to eat over Christmas and the New Year. Not to mention the alcohol!! From a Medical Herbalists point of view, the sharp increase in illnesses such as coughs and colds we see at this time of year comes as no surprise. [Read more…] about Can’t Shift Those Winter Coughs & Sneezes?
Winter Herbs
Many of us grow herbs in our garden and only use them for cooking purposes – which is great, but wouldn’t it be wonderful to know which you can safely use to help common and simple ailments? I thought I’d share some information about things that you may find useful in these cold, winter months! Please do remember that the suggestions I make are intended as guidelines only and should not substitute medical advice, if in doubt then please contact your chosen health professional. [Read more…] about Winter Herbs