From the Herb Basket – 20

For a stronger immune system: eat garlic, onions, ginger and lots of spices such as oregano, turmeric, cinnamon and sage. Add spices and herbs to soups, stews, casseroles, meats and vegetables, as well as bean dips and sauces. Garlic and onions offer wide-spectrum antimicrobial properties.

Exactly 54 years after commercial production of antibiotics began- the first staphylococcus bacteria resistant to all clinical antibiotics had infected its first three people in 1999. From there began the devastating effects of C-diff and MRSA. Herbal medicine offers an alternative to these increasingly ineffective drugs. You may want to read this book: Herbal Antibiotics: Natural Alternatives for Treating Drug Resistant Bacteria by Stephen Harrod Buhner.

Fennel seeds are loaded with 16 analgesic and 27 antispasmodic chemicals. The seeds make a pleasant licorice flavored tea and is especially good for relieving  menstrual cramps. Avoid fennel while pregnant or nursing due to its estrogenic effects.

Now you know- peppermint essential oil is used as a local topical anesthetic in commercial ointments such as Solarcaine and Ben-Gay.

Goldenseal powder has antiseptic properties and can be sprinkled onto minor cuts or wounds to stop bleeding. It does sting a little, but only for a moment.

To alleviate mood-related PMS symptoms, place a few drops of lavender essential oil on a cotton ball and inhale for 60 seconds.

Witch Hazel is also known as “nature’s Neosporin.” A natural antibacterial that will disinfect and heal minor wounds. External use only !

According to Greek Legend, mint was originally a nymph named Minthe ; she was transformed into a plant when Persephone- the Goddess of Spring, and later the underworld- became jealous of her husband Pluto’s interest in Minthe. Unable to reverse the spell cast by his jealous wife, Pluto gave Minthe a delightful scent that filled the senses whenever anyone walked upon her in the garden.

Recent clinical studies indicate that ‘Bergamot’ Citrus extract [ a dietary supplement ] can be a powerful source of controlling HDL- triglycerides. In addition to supporting healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

When real food and herbal medicine are outlawed- only outlaws will have them.

Blessed Be, sweet ones

~ Meadow Walker