Natural Cosmetics & Skin Care

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• Bath Salts

  A simple, delightful recipe, bath salts add trace minerals to the bath water, soften the water, and gently cleanse the skin. Bath salts are made from a combination of mineral salts. Most people are surprised, and some mildly offended, to learn the major ingredient in most bath salts is Borax. Borax is a natural mineral salt mined in only a few places in the world. Put it in a large box with a picture of the 20 mule team on the front and it_used for laundry; put it in a small, fancy jar and it's used as a cosmetic.

  Ingredients for Bath Salts:

  • 2 cups Borax
  • 1/8 cup Sea Salt
  • 1/8 cup White Clay
  • Essential Oils to scent

  To Make:

  (1) Mix borax, salt, and clay together. Use a wire egg whisk to distribute all the ingredients evenly.
  (2) Scent with your favorite essential oil. The mix will absorb a lot of oil so buy your scent in a 1 oz bottle.
  (3) Cover with a porous cloth and let sit several hours to dry. Mix with egg whisk again. Package in glass bottles or fancy tins.

• Bay Rum Aftershave and Astringent

  Growing in abundance around my home in the California coastal range is the gorgeous aromatic bay tree. This recipe is an inspiration from the bay wood forest of that home. For a bracing astringent and for a perfect aftershave tonic to tighten and firm pores try this wonderful "ALL NATURAL" bay rum tonic. It makes a great gift also.

  Recipe

  • Bay Leaves (fresh works far better)
  • A few Cloves, Allspice, and Ginger
  • Rum

  To Make:

  (1) Pack a wide mouth jar full of bay leaves. Fresh leaves are really the best to use here. Add just a few cloves, allspice and ginger, enough to give it a bit of a spicy aroma.
  (2) Completely cover the herbs with rum ( an inch or two above the herbs).
  (3) Let sit for 3-4 weeks in a warm place.
  (4) Strain and rebottle the herbal liquid. You may add a drop or two of essential oil of bay to strengthen the scent; especially if using dry bay leaves.

• Beauty And The Bath

  Cosmeos' shrine is most often found in the least conspicuous room in the house, the bathroom. Here one is likely to find the anointing oils, luscious creams, the facial cleansers, and all the wonderfully scented paraphernalia so fond to the heart of this sensuous goddess. Within the confines of your bathroom, in the temple of Cosmeos, you can create ceremonies to awaken the goddess energy. One of the most satisfying of these ceremonies is the Ritual Bath. It has all the benefits of an exclusive European-style spa, but is accomplished inexpensively and conveniently in your own home. The entire treatment can be completed within an hour. The results? Glowing skin, radiant spirits, and a deep, harmonious feeling of peace.

  Step One - Getting Ready

  Begin by placing a candle in your bathroom, light some incense, and put your favorite music on your stereo.

  Step Two - Filling The Tub

  Fill your bathtub with very hot water. Use a generous portion of your favorite Bath Herb Mix (see recipe section). Add 4 tablespoons of you favorite Bath Salt mix (see recipe section). Your bath water should be richly scented and permeated with the healing essences of the herbs.

  Step Three - Anointing

  Generously apply either massage oil or creamy massage oil (see recipe section) to your entire skin. Using a luffa or natural hemp mitt, vigorously rub your entire body. This therapeutic skin treatment, called dry brush massage, is used in European style spas and sanitariums. It is both a marvelous cosmetic aid and a therapy for sluggish circulation and skin related disorders. When you have thoroughly and vigorously massaged your entire body, you are ready for immersion.

  Step Four - Immersion

  Slowly immerse yourself into your herbal bath water. Let the candle light lure your dreams; the soft music entice you. While soaking, use the bag of bath herbs as a gentle scrub. Massage it soothingly over your body.

  Step Five - Re-emergence

  After a time which should seem like forever, when you feel fully ready to re-emerge into the world, slowly step from the tub. Towel dry, then anoint your entire body with your special cream (recipe above). Dust a bit of your heavenly body powder (see recipe section) under your arms and everywhere else it feels good.

• Body Powder

  This is the nicest powder recipe I know of. It is a natural deodorizer because of its absorbent properties, can be scented with any scent you like, and is simple and inexpensive to make.

  Ingredients:

  • 1 cup White cosmetic grade Clay
  • 1-2 cups Cornstarch
  • Optional; Essential Oils
  • Optional; Lavender and Rose flowers

  To Make:

  (1) In a large bowl, using a wire whisk, mix the clay and cornstarch together.
  (2) Add essential oil. It will absorb quite a bit, so buy your essential oil in 1 oz bottles.
  (3) If you wish to use herbs, finely grind the lavender and roses (or other herbs) to a fine powder. Sift. Then grind again. They must be as powdered as possible or they will give a gritty feeling to the powder. A coffee or seed and nut grinder will work fairly well.
  (4) Cover the body powder with a porous cloth and let sit for several hours to dry. Package in powder containers, spice jars with shaker tops, or fancy tins.

• Creamy Massage Oil

  This richer, thicker oil is really half way between a cream and a massage oil. I especially like it for massaging the face, hands, and feet.

  How to Make:

  (1) Make herbal oil using recipe above.
  (2) To each cup of herbal oil add the following:
  1/4 cup Cocoa Butter
  1/2 cup Coconut oil
  1 tsp Lanolin
  (3) Warm over low heat just until all in
  gredients are melted together.
  (4) Scent with your favorite essential oil.

• Five Steps to Perfect Skin

  A. Step One - Miracle Grains

  Lightly cleanse your face and neck with Miracle Grains (see recipe section). Use the grains to gently massage and stimulate the skin. The grains will massage off dry, dead skin, increase circulation to the facial surface, and provide a nourishing "meal" for your face. Rinse the grains off with warm water.
  
  

  B. Step Two - Herbal Facial Steam

  Select an Herbal Facial Steam that's best for your skin type (see recipe section). Bring the herbs to a boil in a large pot of water. Remove from heat source. Completely cover the pot and your head with a large thick towel. It will be VERY hot under that towel. Try to steam for at least 5-8 minutes. To regulate the heat, raise or lower your head or lift a corner of the towel to let in a little cool air. If you need to come out to catch a breath of cool air now and then, do so. But it is best to stay under the towel for as long as possible. Your face should be rolling with steam. It really does feel fabulous. A facial steam is the best possible way for deep pore cleansing. Each of the herbs used are rich in nutrients that nourish and tone the skin. The aromatic oils of the plants are released by the heat and also absorbed by the skin. And best of all, it feels so good!! Your face will feel smooth and glow with radiance. Immediately after you complete your Facial Steam, rinse your face with COLD water and/or gently pat with Rose Water or Queen of Hungary's Water; ( see recipe section). Gently pat dry.
  
  

  C. Step Three - Facials

  Facials are excellent for stimulating deep circulation to the facial skin by drawing fresh blood to the surface. They are excellent for deep pore cleansing and help heal blemishes and acne. Facials also help to tone and firm the skin. There are several kinds of facials available. My favorites are made with a base of clay, honey, and/or yogurt. I find clay particularly suitable when one wants a drawing, firming type of facial. The clay is also very high in minerals and nourishes the skin. But more than the mineral content of the clay is the very substance of which it is made. Clay is mineral deposits that are thousands of years old. Those unique deposits of earth, of clay, have seen a thousand sunrises and moon sets; been washed by powerful rainstorms, impregnated by lightning and thunder. We mix that clay with a little water and put it on our faces in the name of Cosmeos. Now that is pretty powerful medicine!
  
  

  • Honey, too, has its magic. It is a marvelous cosmetic for the skin. A natural moisturizer, bacteria can not live in honey. Honey both moisturizes and cleanses the skin.
  • Yogurt has slight astringent properties and helps restore the natural acid mantle of the skin.
  • Select the facial for your skin type. If choosing a clay facial, mix with just enough water to make a nice paste. The thicker the clay/water mix, the more drying the facial, and vice versa. Apply and leave on until completely dry.
  • If choosing the honey pack, apply a fingerfull to COMPLETELY dry skin. Be sure all your hair is out of reach; it gets very sticky when full of honey! I usually "turban towel" it out of sight. Gently massage honey into the skin. Massage, Pat, and Rub on face. Let your senses tell you what strokes to use. Your skin will be so invigorated and stimulated it fairly glows.� Rinse honey off with warm water. It comes off very easily, but be sure to rinse off completely or you will fell sticky for the rest of the day. The fresh flow of blood brought to the surface of the skin by the honey facial will create a deep, warm, lasting glow.

  To Determine What Type of Facial to Use

  • For DRY SKIN: choose a white cosmetic grade clay. White clay, though lightly drawing, is very gentle to the skin. For a more nourishing facial, mix with yogurt and/or avocado.
  • For OILY SKIN: choose either green, red or yellow clay. These clays are much more drying than the white variety. They are also very high in minerals thus feeding and nourishing the skin. They are excellent for problematic skin such as acne, pimples, and oily skin types. In natural therapeutics, these clays are often used for poison oak, ivy, bee stings, and insect bites.
  • For ALL SKIN TYPES: honey makes an excellent facial. It brings fresh blood to the surface, removes impurities, smooths and softens the skin.

  D. Step Four - Tonic Astringents

  When the facial is completed, rinse off with warm water. Be gentle to your skin while rinsing. Use soft circular motions. Massage your skin, do not scrub it. The honey will rinse off easily,; the clay requires a few rinses. Immediately after rinsing the facial off it is necessary to give a final rinse with a light astringent to tone and close the pores. If you have dry skin use Rose Water, a very light, gentle astringent. If your skin is medium to oily use The Queen of Hungary's Water or Bay Rum After Shave (see recipes).
  
  

  E. Step Five - Massage and Cream

  The finishing touch is to grace yourself with a light, delicate facial massage using a special formulated cream for your skin type (see recipe).

The above treatment from steps 1-5 takes about 45 marvelous minutes and for best results, is done at least once or twice a month.

An Excellent Skin Care Program to Follow Would Be:

Daily--* Cleanse with cleansing grains

* Close pores with an astringent
* Massage in a light cream.

Weekly--* Do a honey mask or a clay mask suitable for your skin type.
Monthly--* Treat yourself!! Follow entire program for radiant skin!

All of the following recipes are made with the finest of natural ingredients. Each of the ingredients contributes to the integrity of the final product. One of the wonders of making your own skin care products is that you can have the finest quality for the least amount of money. You also have control of what goes into the product and onto your face. Do not be fooled by the many ingredients used in commercial type skin care products. Many of the natural ingredients are added only so that the consumer (us) is impressed. Notice how far down the list of ingredients the natural ones are. The further down, the smaller the amount. Also, note how many ingredients listed are preservatives, coloring agents, synthetic scents, and chemicals. It is true that all chemicals and ingredients with "synthetic" names are not necessarily harmful. But my simple advice is: if you don't know what it is or does, don't smear it on your face.

One final thing before you get started on these recipes; have fun, be creative! These recipes are meant to be played and tampered with. Add the extra pinch of herb, a new exotic scent, a touch of this or that. Just like a good cook follows an exact recipe only once, then adds her own creativity and inspiration, so these formulas are best awakened with your own dreams.

When experimenting with these recipes:

(1) Always experiment in small batches.
(2) Know what each ingredient does in and to the formula.

• Herbal Baths/Showers

  Bathing in herbs is truly like immersing one_body in a giant cup of tea. All the pores are open and receptive. The skin, our largest organ of absorption and elimination , absorbs the healing essences of herbs and you emerge renewed, refreshed.

  How to Make:
  (1) Place a large handful or two of the herbal mixture (see formulas below) in a muslin bag, handkerchief, or large tea ball. Tie the container onto the nozzle of the tub and turn water on HOT. Let the hot water stream through the herbs making a strong, healthy tea, then adjust water temperature. I like using cloth bags for the herbs so I can use the herbal bag for a wash cloth while bathing.
  (2) For shower, tie herbal container onto shower nozzle. When soaked through, untie it, and use as your wash cloth.
  
  Stimulation

  • 3 parts Peppermint
  • 1 part Sage
  • 1 part Rosemary
  • 2 parts Calendula
  • 1 part Bay leaf
  • 1 part Eucalyptus

  Relaxing

  • 2 parts Lavender
  • 2 parts Roses
  • 2 parts Chamomile
  • 1 part Hops
  • 1 part Comfrey

• Herbal Facial Steams

  The following are some of my favorite recipes for facial steams. Everybody who makes these steams has their favorite recipe which is , I suspect often based on whatever herbs they have on hand. When blending your own formulas, use herbs that have been traditionally used for the care of the skin. Know also whether the herb is slightly drying (astringents) or moisturizing (mucilaginous). Add flowers for color and texture. It is lovely to be steaming over a soup pot of simmering roses, marigold, chamomile, and lavender blossoms.

  Recipe for Dry to Normal Skin

  • 2 Parts Chamomile
  • 2 Parts Roses
  • 3 Parts Comfrey
  • 1 Part Lavender
  • 2 Parts Calendula

  Recipe for Normal to Oily Skin

  • 1 Part Sage
  • 3 Parts Comfrey
  • 2 Parts Calendula
  • 1 Part Witch Hazel
  • 1/4 Part Rosemary

  To Make:

  Mix all the herbs together, adjust amounts to suit you, and store in dry, airtight glass bottles.

  To Use:

  Bring 2-3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a healthy handful of the herb mixture and let simmer with the lid on for just a couple of minutes. Remove the pot from the heat source. With a large towel, completely cover your head and pot of steaming herbs. Enjoy this mini- sauna. It does wonders for the skin.

• Herbal Massage Oil

  (1) Use one or two ounces of herbal formula (see recipes below) to 1 pint of apricot or almond oil. Place herbs in wide mouth jar and pour oil over the herbs. Be certain the herbs are completely covered by the oil.
  (2) (a) Let sit in a warm place for two weeks, shaking the herbs and oil mixture every day. Or: (b) place herbs and oil in a double boiler and slowly heat the mixture. Bring to a low simmer (Do Not Overheat the oil or you will end up with burnt massage oil). Keep on low heat for about 30 to 45 minutes.
  (3) Whichever method you use above, after desired length of time, strain herbs from oil. Use a fine sieve with a piece of cheese cloth placed in it so that no herbal particles get mixed in with the strained oil.
  (4) You may wish to scent your herbal oil with a bit of essential oil. Carefully add a few drops of your favorite essential oils and mix in well.

  You now have one of the finest herbal massage oils available. Made with the pure essences of herbs extracted in high quality fruit and nut oil, your massage oil will serve both as an excellent lubricant for massages and as a nutrient for the skin.

  Formula 1 (for Dry Skin)

  • 1 part Chamomile
  • 2 parts Roses
  • 1 part Comfrey
  • 1 part Lavender
  • 1 part Calendula

  Formula 2 (for Oily Skin)

  • 2 parts Comfrey
  • 1 part Sage
  • 1/2 part rosemary
  • 2 parts Calendula
  • 1 part Lavender
  • 1 part Witch Hazel bark (not the extract)

  Mix the herbs together and scent with your favorite essential oil. Follow directions above. Please note: I suggest you add essential oil both while you mixing the dry herbs and at the very end of the recipe when you have strained the herb from the oil. It gives a deeper, richer scent.

• Miracle Grains

  These cleansing grains, a perfect soap replacement, are mild, nourishing, suitable for all skin types, and can be used daily.

  Recipe

  • 1 Cup finely ground Oats
  • 2 Cups White Clay
  • 1/4 Cup finely ground Almonds
  • 1/8 Cup finely ground Lavender
  • 1/8 Cup finely ground Roses

   

  To make:

  • (1) Grind all ingredients to the desired consistency. You may wish to grind the oats very fine. The almonds are nice with just a touch of "grit" left in them. Generally try to powder the roses and lavender as much as possible; they will always have a bit of coarseness or graininess left. This coarseness is desirable as it serves as the cleansing "grains". The clay is already finely powdered. I have found that electric coffee grinders work best for grinding small amounts of herbs, flowers, and spices. However, a word of wisdom, do not use the grinder you use for coffee. Your herbs will all smell like coffee, and your coffee will forever smell and taste like roses and lavender. Blenders work well, also.
  • (2) Mix all ingredients together. You may wish to add a few drops of essential oil(s) to enhance the scent and the effect of the grains. The oils must be PURE essential oils such as lavender, peppermint or orange. Do not use synthetic oils; they could possibly burn or irritate the skin.
  • (3) Your miracle grains are now ready to use. Store in a pretty glass container. A shell makes a nice scoop and mixing receptacle as well. You can also store in spice jars with shaker tops. To use, mix about one to two teaspoons of the cleansing grains with water. Stir into a paste and gently massage face. Rinse off with warm water.
  • (4) To make moist miracle grains: add enough honey and a small amount of pure distilled rose water (or plain distilled water) to the dried powdered mixture to make a nice paste. The honey serves as a natural preservative for the grains as well as adding its wonderful moisturizing quality. I usually mix only enough moist grains for a week or two to prevent spoilage from occurring. I store the remainder of the grains in dry powder form and mix as needed.
  • (5) As with each of my recipes, you are not only invited, but encouraged, to be creative. You can add cornmeal, seaweed, vitamins such as vitamin E and A, and numerous other substances into your cleansing grains. However, my favorite Miracle Grains recipe is the plain and simple formula above.

• The Perfect Cream

  This is by far the most wonderful face cream I have ever used. It is rich with natural ingredients. A real moisturizer, it provides nourishment, moisture and food for the skin. And for the final stroke, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to make. Hundreds of my students have made it using this recipe. Almost all agree it is the best skin cream they have ever used. Many have further personalized the recipe for their own unique skin type. This basic formula, though excellent as is, can be further embellished.

  Unlike many commercial creams that only coat the surface of the skin, this cream penetrates the epidermal layer and moisturizes the dermal layer of the skin. Because it is extremely concentrated, a little goes a long way. A common mistake when using this cream, is to use too much of it. You only need the smallest finger full. Take a tiny amount and gently massage into your face and skin. There will be a temporary feeling of oiliness that will, within a few minutes, disappear as the cream is quickly absorbed. Though I recommend just a small amount on your face, you can be generous on the rest of your body. Because you make this cream yourself, you can afford the luxury of using your richest face cream on your entire body.

  Though this recipe appears easy, it is also a bit challenging. You are attempting to mix (homogenize) water and oil together; and they don't normally mix. Follow the recipe closely. If it doesn't turn out the first time, don't be discouraged, try again. It is well worth the effort.

  THE RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT CREAM

  Group One

  • 3/4 cup Apricot oil and/or Almond oil
  • 1/3 cup Coconut oil and/or Cocoa butter
  • 1 tsp. Lanolin
  • 1/2 oz. grated Beeswax

  Group Two

  • 2/3 cup distilled water (can also use distilled Rose water or Orange Flower water).
  • 1/3 cup Aloe Vera gel
  • * a drop or two of essential oil
  • * Vitamins A & E as desired

  Please note:

  (1) Basically the proportions of our cream recipe should be about 1 part group one (oils) to 1 part group two (waters).
  (2) In group one, the oil proportions should be approximately 2/3 cup liquid oil (such as almond and apricot) to 1/3 cup solid oil (cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, lanolin, etc.).
  (3) In group two, the water mixture, the "waters" can include distilled water, rose water, lavender, orange and other flower waters. It can also include tap water but tap water will sometimes introduce bacteria to your cream that results in the growth of mold. The water mixture also includes your essential oils, vitamins and aloe vera gel. If using aloe vera, your cream will be heavier, but very moisturizing. It is important never to use aloe on staph or strep infections.

  There is a lot of flexibility and room for creative input in this recipe. What is essential to its success is proportions and temperature.

  To Make:

  (1) Melt group one over low heat in a double boiler. Heat just enough to melt.
  (2) Pour into a glass measuring cup and let cool to room temperature. Oils should become thick, creamy, semi-solid, and cream colored. This cooling process can be hastened in the refrigerator, however, keep an eye on it so it doesn't get too hard. When completely cool you are ready for step (3) Place group two in the blender. Turn blender on the highest speed. In a SLOW, THIN drizzle (just like making mayonnaise) pour group one (oil mixture) into the center vortex.
  (4) When most of the oil mixture has been added to the water mixture, LISTEN to the blender and WATCH the cream. When the blender coughs and chokes, and the cream looks thick and white like buttercream frosting, turn the blender off. DO NOT OVERBEAT! You should have a beautiful rich thick cream. It will thicken a bit as it sets up.
  (5) Pour into cream or lotion jars and store in a cool place.

  Please note

  * Followed as above, the cream recipe should work for you. If it doesn't and the waters and oils separate, it is most likely because of improper temperatures. The waters have to be room temperature and the oils completely cooled.
  * If the water and oil separate, you can separate them entirely and begin the process over again. Or, put a little note on your package that says "SHAKE BEFORE USING".
  * This recipe is a basic formula and is ready for all your enthusiastic ideas: vitamins A, D, & E; elastin, collagen, avocado oil, various combinations of essential oils, herbs, and etc. One caution: experiment in small batches.

• The Queen of Hungarys Water

  This wonderful astringent lotion has been hailed as the first herbal product to ever be produced an marketed. Legend has it the early gypsies formulated it and claimed it to be a cure-all for everything. Whether or not it is, I hardly know; but I do know that it is an excellent astringent for the face and a great hair rinse for dark hair. I think in some ways it is one of the world_finest cosmetic formulas. It combines gentle common herbs in a masterful way, is easy and inexpensive to make, and is a very versatile formula that serves many purposes. The Gypsies claimed it was good as a hair rinse, mouth wash, headache remedy, aftershave, foot bath and who knows what else! I have seen this exact same formula bottled in exotic little bottles and sold in expensive department stores for a fancy price. You can make it for the cost of a few herbs and a bottle of vinegar. It smells very much like vinegar, so you might wish to add more rose water.

  Recipe

  • 6 Parts Lemon Balm (also known as Melissa)
  • 4 Parts Chamomile
  • 1 Part Rosemary
  • 3 Parts Calendula
  • 4 Parts Roses
  • 1 Part Lemon Peel
  • 1 Part Sage
  • 3 Parts Comfrey
  • Vinegar to cover (apple cider or wine vinegar)
  • Rosewater and/or Witch Hazel extract (proportions follow)

  To Make:

  (1) Place all the herbs in a wide mouth jar and cover with vinegar. Be sure there is about one to two inches of vinegar above the herb mixture. Cover tightly and let sit in a warm spot for two to three weeks.
  (2) Strain. Set the liquid aside.
  (3) To each cup of herbal vinegar add 1/2 cup rosewater and/or witch hazel.
  (4) A drop or two of essential oil such as lavender or rose can be added.
  (5) Rebottle. This product does not need to be refrigerated and will preserve itself forever.

The Digestive System

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• Aromatic Digestive Herbs

  Indicated for gastric congestion, nausea, vomiting, gas, loss of appetite, diarrhea,

  Fennel

  • volatile oils, tannins, fixed oils, courmarins.
  • Warms and harmonized digestive functions; powerful carminative; local anti-inflammatory; diuretic; stimulates lactation

   

  Cardamom

  • essential oil, warm, acrid, bitter.
  • broad warming stimulant to digestion. A strong warming remedy for congestive digestion with abdominal pain and distension, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting, loss of appetite. valuable strategy in cases where poor digestion and assimilation appear to be at the root of a chronic debility.

  Dill

  • Carminative, digestive stimulant

  Cinnamon

  • Warming, stimulates circulation to the stomach

   

  Cooling Remedies Such as Bitters

  • Bitters are a powerful strategy for the treatment of a number of inflammatory and digestive disorders.
  • Good to use for both diarrhoea or constipation, scanty dark urine, thirst but little drinking,
  • biliary disorders, including gall balder disease and even some cases of high cholesterol.
  • Also for many liver conditions. And intolerance of greasy foods and alcohol
  • Previous exposure to high levels of alcohol and recreational\prescribed drugs
  • Reactive hypoglycemia

   

  Examples of digestive bitters

  • Dandelion root and leaf
  • artichoke
  • gentian (g. lutea) ~ the archetypal bitter remedy, sure safe and without side effects, is was used as a foundation for any prescription seeking to use cooling, drying and digestive stimulant effects.
  • Golden Seal, barberry, gold thread
  • Milk Thistle ~ protective against liver poisons, (notably the death cap mushroom) also shown to be effective in treating hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
  • Yellow Dock can be seen as a mild version of cascara or rhubarb, having the same bitter and choleretic properties, but less laxative action. Used for the bile-bowel axis; in other words if there is a condition that suggests liver/bowel disorder, yellow dock is an herb of choice.
  • Cascara Sagrada ~ glycosides, tannins, bitter principles, volatile oils. Stimulating laxative, .
  • Chamomile ~ mild enough for children, strong enough to be effective for the most cranky adult. used for digestive stress. relaxes the gut, regulating peristaltic movements, relieves colic, nervous hyperactive, diarrhoea and spastic colon; the volatile oils is also a carminative, reducing flatulence.

• Classification Of Digestive And Liver Herbs

  Astringents

  • increase nerve and muscle tone, are drying, remove excess moisture, can reduce bacteria, yeast, or viral over growth
  • Ex: oak bark, blackberry, black walnut

   

  Bitters

  • stimulating, tonify nerve supply to digestive organs, increase flow of secretions and enzymes
  • ex. dandelion, mugwort, wormwood, gentian, cascara sagrada

   

  Demulcent

  • coating, soothing, relaxing
  • ex. marshmallow, slippery elm, comfrey, barley, oats

   

  Antispasmodics

  • removes congestion, regulates chi
  • ex. wild yam, chamomile, yarrow, fennel, peppermint

   

  Anti inflammatory

  • heat clearing
  • chamomile, oregon grape root, golden seal, gentian, fenugreek.

   

  Aromatics, carminatives

  • cool the digestion, warm surface, release gas, relax sphincter, increase bowled peristyles.
  • Ex. peppermint, spearmint, fennel caraway, dill, cardamon

   

  Laxatives

  • Stimulate and regulate the bowels,

   

  Bitters work by:

  1. Activate the gastric secretion of hydrochloric acid and other digestive enzymes. This increases the nerve tone of the muscles in the entire digestive tact and improves blood circulation
  2. increase the strength and tone of autonomic nervous system. which energizes the entire digestive track, (without thinking about it).

   

  Bitters are used for:

  • poor fat digestion
  • poor protein digestion
  • weakness due to chronic illness
  • loss of zest for life, lowered vitality
  • poor appetite
  • anemia
  • excessive craving for sweets

   

  Laxatives and bowel tonics

  • An area where herbs really excel is in strengthening and cleansing of the bowls. They work by stimulating the bowel wall, increasing peristalsis.
  • Bowel tonics have a very mild laxative activity.
  • Laxatives such as ale, senna, buckthorn bark and butternut bark can help stimulate bowel movement during times of constipation
  • Cathartic herbs strongly clean out the bowels; use cautiously and sparingly!

• Programs for Common Digestion Related Complaints

  Poor digestion due to congested or overworked liver

  Symptoms; soreness in the liver area, painful digestion, gas pains, constipation, feeling of fullness in stomach and intestines, loss of appetite; pms; depression; aversion to oily foods

  • Dietary recommendations; rest digestive tract allowing at least 12 hour between evening and morning meal. Fast one day a week.
  • Eat lightly & of easily digested foods. Walk after meals.
  • Do the liver flush for one week.
  • Take herbs that decongest the liver, increase blood flow,
  • such as dandelion, yellow dock, fennel, ginger, burdock, chamomile, wild yam
  • Massage the area daily.

   

  Poor Fat Digestion

  Symptoms feeling nausea or soreness in gut after fatty meals, burping with an oily taste in the mouth or throat; aversion to fatty foods

  • Dietary recommendations; rest the digest tract and take liver flushes. Avoid foods fried or cooked in oil
  • Herbal recommendations; take herbs to increase bile flow ~ such as artichoke, gentian, milk thistle, dandelion root and yellow dock root
  • Warm poultices over liver area.

  Irritable Bowel Syndrome

  Symptoms; burning or uncomfortable feelings in bowels; alternating diarrhea and constipation; frequent gas and rumbling sounds in the intestines. Symptoms usually worse with stress or when tired.

  • Dietary recommendations: feed the beneficial flora in your intestines with foods such as cooked apples, steamed vegetables, and grains that are easy to digest and are non allergic.
  • Eat small simple meals. Don't do a lot of food combining.
  • Herbs high mucilaginous herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow, oat, licorice, fenugreek.
  • Christopher Hobb's formula for Irritable Bowel Syndrome,
  • flax seed
  • marshmallow root
  • licorice root,
  • fenugreek
  • caraway or fennel

  Gas/Flatulence

  Symptoms; a bloated feeling accompanied by various pains in the abdomen or side; frequent passing of gas.

  • Dietary suggestions; keep food combinations simple. Don't mix sugars (carbos) with protein. This will generally lead to fermentation and gas in the stomach.
  • Avoid food that creates gas such as legumes (or soak water a couple of days); alliums, brassaca family, nuts, nut butters, etc.
  • Herbal recommendations; peppermint oil, and other carminative herbs such as ginger, fennel, cardamon.
  • Increase intestinal microflora. Christopher Hobbs recommends 10 billion (!!) organisms per day if symptoms are severe; or 3 to 6 if less severe.
  • Enemas are one of the quickest remedies known for relieving severe gas pains.

  Skin Disorders

  Symptoms: acne, psoriasis. Bowel movement may have a strong, unpleasant odor.

  • Dietary suggestions: avoid fats, oils, sugars, carbo's. keep diet whole and natural. Focus on steamed and raw vegies. Be moderate with dairy.
  • Herbs; burdock, dandelion greens, milk thistle seed is one of the best for psoriasis. One doctor has had at least 50 % of his clients improve on just oregon grape root.
  • hydrotherapy; applications of hot and cold water.

   

  Weight Problems: Over & Under

  Symptoms: sluggish metabolism, work on thyroid gland. Increase metabolism. energy.

  • Dietary recommendations; diet of fresh fruits and vegies; eat protein in morning, have a good breakfast;
  • avoid fats and oils, small amounts of dairy, eliminate nuts.
  • Herb recommendations; bladderwrack and other sea weeds; cayenne; chickweed, burdock

Materia Medical of Herbs

Click a title below to view the definition:

• Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale)

  Comfrey has a healing and soothing effect upon every organ it contacts. It is a very good source of calcium and also contains allatonin, pantothenic acid, iron, manganese, phosphorous, the B Vitamins and Vitamins C and E. Largely because of this high nutritional content, Comfrey is known as Knitbone - it speeds and improves the healing of all bone and ligament injuries. A famous poultice herb, Comfrey helps reduce the swelling and inflammation of bruises, sprains, contusions, etc. Its demulcent (soothing, lubricating) properties make it especially valuable for the lungs. Use it whenever there is dryness, irritation and/or inflammation or the lungs. High in mucilage, it is also useful for many digestive disturbances and intestinal troubles, such as ulcers and colitis.

  Caution: This herb is not appropriate for wounds or broken skin, and should not be used for prolonged periods even on unbroken skin. Not recommended during pregnancy. There is tremendous controversy about the safety of comfrey at this time so education yourself and make up your own mind! Grows like a weed in the NE!

• Calendula Flowers (Calendula officinalis)

  Calendula is the same plant as the well-known garden Marigold. It is one of herbalism's more useful plants. It is a vulnerary, which heals the body by promoting cell repair, and an antiseptic which keeps infection from injuries. Calendula is most often used externally to heal wounds, bruises, burns, sores and skin ulcers. Internally, Calendula may be used to dissipate fevers and to heal gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, cramps, indigestion and diarrhea. It may be used as a healing wash for sore, inflamed gums. Finally, it can correct delayed or painful menstruation. Easily grown in the NE

• Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annum)

  Most herbalists would not be without this herb, a safe pure stimulant, antiseptic and toning agent which helps the system to throw off disease and establish equilibrium. For winter colds, congestion, infection and inflammation, it is excellent! It adds warmth, stimulates the immune system, helps break up congestion, clears sinuses and serves to activate other herbs in a formula. It is a natural coagulent which stops bleeding, though needless to say it can burn if used externally. It also stimulates the circulatory system, increases the pulse and tonifies the heart muscle and its blood vessels. Finally, it is a carminative which stimulates the digestive system and releases constipation. Avoid contact with the eyes or other sensitive tissues. Needs long hot summers to thrive.

• Chamomile Flower (Chamaemelum nobile)

  Now here is the case of a small, beautiful and gentle plant that also has powerful medicinal virtues. Chamomile demonstrates to us that gentle does not mean less effective. It has been used for centuries for nervous stress, stomach disorders and inflammation. I always remember the story of Peter Rabbit when I think of Chamomile tea. When little Peter returned wet and chilled from Farmer Johns garden, his mother whipped him soundly, gave him a cup of Chamomile tea and sent home to bed; in that order. Chamomile is a nerve tonic that strengthens the nervous system while calming frayed nerves and promoting relaxation and easy sleep. It is a general digestive aid which promotes smooth digestion and relieves gas, colic and ulcers. Whats more, it also has the anti-inflammatory and anti-fever agents which made it such a useful remedy for little Peter s cold. It can also cool inflammations of the eyes, throat and gums (gingivitis). Chamomile is a wonderful, fragrant herb to grow in your garden - it provides a rich, subtle odor that relaxes body, mind and spirit. Safe for children. Can be grown in the NE.

• Dandelion Leaf & Root (Taraxacum officinale)

  Is there an herbalist anywhere who does not consider Dandelion among their favorite of herbs? Beautiful and tenacious (to the chagrin of those unfamiliar with its virtues), it is an absolute storehouse of nutrients and medicinal properties. Its jagged leaves are packed full of calcium, magnesium, Vitamins A and C and iron, and they make an excellent tonic for the kidneys, liver and pancreas. Considered one of the safest and most effective diuretics, Dandelion leaf tonifies the kidneys while aiding in proper water elimination. Unlike synthetic diuretics that rob potassium from the system (often causing severe health problems), Dandelion replenishes potassium and other nutrients to the body. It is also considered one of the major alteratives, or blood cleansers. It balances the chemical composition of the blood while detoxifying and cleansing the hepatic and circulatory systems.

  Herbalists have treasured the Dandelion root for centuries as a bitter digestive aid and rejuvenating Spring tonic. Like the Dandelion leaf, the root is a nutritive diuretic (rich in potassium) and alterative, but as a digestive bitter, it is particularly stimulating to the liver, inducing the flow of bile and cleaning the hepatic system. Dandelion root is also an antacid for both the stomach and the blood, which makes it a remedy for hyperacidic conditions. Grows as a weed in the NE

• Echinacea Root and Herb (Echinacea Angustifolia, Purpurea and Pallida)

  This is one of the most important herbs of our times due to its ability to build and strengthen the immune system.It is found growing wild in central to southwestern United States and prefers wide open grasslands and prairies.Historically, Cheyenne and Comanche peoples collected and treasured this plant for use during the cold season, and it is still the remedy par excellence for healing and preventing colds and flus.Echinacea works by increasing macrophage and T-Cell activity and thereby raising the potency of the bodys protective shield. As a lung treatment, use Echinacea whenever bronchial inflammation, strep throat or chronic or acute bacterial and viral infections are apparent.Also use it for herpes and other systemic infections and for lymphatic infections.The three varieties of Echinacea that are widely used contain different levels of the therapeutic polysaccharides.Echinacea Purpurea is perhaps the most common variety in commerce and is the one on which much clinical research has been done.However, all of these varieties have their virtues.Furthermore, both the root and herb are used.Easily grown in the NE

• Elder Flower, Berry and Leaf (Sambucus nigra or canadensis)

  Many of the old herb gardens were planted around an Elder bush - the protector of the herb garden.The Elder provides shade, flowers and fruit and invites the birds and bees.It also provides a variety of usable medicines for humans.Used topically, the leaves and flowers of the Elder stimulate the healing of bruises, burns, sprains and wounds, and they may be used to clear up acne.A decoction of the leaves is said to be a good insect repellent for both you and your garden.The leaves, flowers and berries are all diaphoretic (induce sweating) and have immune supporting action.They are very useful in cooling fevers and clearing colds, flu and upper respiratory infections, and they cool upper respiratory inflammation associated with sinusitis and hay fever.Finally, Elder berry acts as alterative in cases of rheumatism. Easily grown in the NE

• Eleuthero Root/Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

  Over 1,000 scientific studies have confirmed Eleuthero Roots remarkable properties for enhancing physical and mental performance. Although it is not botanically related to Ginseng, it is often known as Siberian Ginseng because it is also an adaptogen. That is, it stimulates the whole system to adapt to diverse challenges by building vitality and endurance and by enhancing resistance to physical and emotional stress. It strengthens the nervous, hormonal and immune systems. By stimulating circulation to the brain, it improves mental clarity and quickness. Not considered kosher to call it S. Ginseng any longer because of confusion by consumers. Is not readily cultivated in the NE, but seems like it would adapt well to our winters. Large flowering bush.

• Garlic Bulb (Allium sativum)

  Garlic is one of the oldest medicinal remedies given to wo/man kind. This highly aromatic herb is heavily laden with organic sulfur. The sulfur and volatile oils in Garlic make it a potent internal and external antiseptic. It acts as a biotic (I dislike the term antibiotic, which means anti=against biotic=life), stimulating the bodys immune system to fight off most infections including colds, flus, bronchitis, and other seasonal maladies. Garlics rind expels worms and parasites. In addition, it is a very effective herb for maintaining healthy blood cholesterol levels and lowering high blood pressure. Externally, it may be used to cure ringworm. Grows easily in the NE

• Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)

  If you have only known ginger as a key ingredient in tropical and Asian cuisine, meet it now again as a medicine. One of the most versatile herbs there is, Ginger not only has a multitude of health effects in its own right, it also enhances the effects of other herbs in a formula. A specific warming herb for the lungs, it is an excellent remedy for asthma and bronchial congestion. In case of fever, it stimulates cooling perspiration. Ginger alleviates nausea including motion sickness and morning sickness, and it relaxes menstrual and stomach cramps. It also stimulates the circulatory system, quickening and enlivening blood flow to the extremities. By increasing blood flow to the pelvic region, Ginger helps relieve pelvic blockages. Lastly, it is a valued digestive aid which improves digestion and efficiently moves out the waste. Grows in the tropics

• Ginkgo Leaf (Ginkgo biloba)

  Over the course of a lifetime, most of us will notice the gradual decline in our short and long-term memories. This is particularly irking if you are starting as a forgetful person to begin with! Well, Ginkgo is a remarkable tree whose leaves can gradually take you in the other direction. It is the sole survivor of the oldest known tree genus, Ginkgoaceae. Considered a living fossil, Ginkgos history goes back over 200 million years. The fan shaped leaves work by enhancing circulation and vasodilation, particularly in the cerebral region. Regular users of Ginkgo gain improvement in memory and mental and emotional stability as well as increased energy and vitality. Although a cup of Ginkgo tea will energize you, to be truly effective Gingko must be used with consistency for a period of 2 to 4 months. Will grow well in the NE, but will take many years to mature. Plant this tree for the future.

• Goldenseal Root (Hydrastis candensis)

  Goldenseal is at the center of the strongest currents in herbalism today. It grows in shady forests in the Eastern United States and Canada, taking three years to reach maturity. The herbs yellow root can be used very effectively as a natural anti-biotic to treat colds, flus, fevers and other types of system-wide infections. For this purpose, Golden Seal is often combined with Echinacea or other herbs which stimulate the immune systems natural infection-fighting ability. Particularly effective at healing mucus membranes, Golden Seal should be used specifically in cleansing washes for eye infections, in mouthwashes for sore mouths and gums, in topical treatments for eczema and infected wounds and in remedies for urinary inflammations, intestinal problems such as colitis or ulcers and a host of respiratory infections. Because it is so effective and therefore popular and because it matures relatively slowly and has a limited range or habitat, this valuable, heroic plant is at risk in the wild. To find out more about the challenges facing Goldenseal and other valuable medicinals please read the Keepers of the Green section at the back of this book. Since Goldenseal is threatened, it should be used responsively and appropriately. There is a persistent and incorrect rumor sometimes batted around that Goldenseal helps mask drug use in drug testing. This is not true. If you use Goldenseal to mask drug use, it will not work and you will be contributing to the threat against this superb plant. Native to the NE/SE hardwood forests.

  Caution: This herb is strong. Avoid excessive or long term use. Not recommended during pregnancy.

  Organically cultivated only, please! This plant is on the UpS At Risk plant and is recommended not to be collected or purchased from wildcrafted sources.

• Hawthorn Berry, Leaf and Flower (Crataegus species)

  The Hawthorn tree has been revered and surrounded by legend for centuries. This attention is deserved, for Hawthorn berries, blossoms and leaves are truly remarkable for nourishing, strengthening and toning the heart muscle and its blood vessels. Hawthorn dilates arteries and veins, allowing blood to flow more freely and releasing cardiovascular constrictions and blockages. It lowers blood pressure while strengthening the heart muscle. It also helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Hawthorn is outstanding both to prevent heart problems and to treat heart disease, angina, edema and heart arrhythmias. Note: Hawthorn should not be taken with Digitalis.

  Caution: Do not take Hawthorn if you are using Digitalis. Work with a health care professional if using Hawthorn in conjunction with heart medication. Easily cutivated tree in the NE. many species.

• Kava Kava Root (Piper methysticum)

  The ceremonies and reverence surrounding the Kava plant and the drink prepared from it are central to numerous cultures of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia. Kava Kava, soothing and expansive, was a part of most important meetings, celebrations and inaugurations. It is a nervine which produces a state of delicious mellowness throughout the body. It relaxes tension, anxiety and stress (both physical and emotional), and it relaxes tight, fatigued muscles. It is also an analgesic which alleviates pain. Kava Kava can be intoxicating in large quantities. Caution: high doses of Kava can cause liver toxicity. Not to be used as a drug. Grows in the tropics.

• Lemon Balm Leaf (Melissa officinalis)

  A fragrant and beautiful member of the mint family, Melissa is gentle, effective and delicious. Melissas leaves, when crushed, smell like lemons. They contain medicinally valuable volatile oils, tannins and bitters which have a definite relaxing effect on the stomach and nervous system. Lemon Balm is primarily sedative and mildly anti-spasmodic. It is excellent for stomach distress, stomach cramps, depression, anxiety and general exhaustion. For a delicious nervine tonic, blend Lemon Balm with Chamomile and Oats. Is a powerful antiviral and is used for viral infections such as herpes. Grows easily in the NE.

• Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

  This sweet root is outstanding for both the respiratory and endocrine systems. An expectorant and demulcent herb, Licorice clears mucus from the bronchial passages while soothing and strengthening inflamed tissue. It is excellent for coughs, bronchitis, asthma and many types of bronchial congestion. It is also very good for coating and calming sore throats and healing intestinal conditions such as ulcers and constipation. Licorice root balances and normalizes the functions of the endocrine glands (especially the adrenals), regulating levels of estrogen and progesterone. It may therefore be helpful in cases of menstrual dysfunction or hormonal imbalances.

  Caution: Not recommended for use by people with hypertension, edema, diabetes or people on heart medication. Not recommended during pregnancy. Can be grown in the NE

• Milk Thistle Seed (Silybum marianum)

  Milk Thistle seed is an outstanding natural support for the liver, the bodys primary filter of toxins. It delivers anti-oxidant (infection-fighting) compounds to the liver, directly stimulates basic liver functions and rebuilds damaged liver tissue. Its tonifying actions make it a valuable component of cleansing programs and an important supplement for those whose livers have been compromised by illness, rich food, hepatitis or alcohol consumption. Milk Thistle seed is also helpful to the kidneys and gall bladder. Can be grown as an annual in the NE

• Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)

  Many people regard Nettle as a horrible rash-causing weed. Actually, handled properly, it is both an excellent food and a potent medicine, and it is an old friend of mine. It is delicious when stewed, pickled or baked in Spanikopita (Greek pie usually made with spinach), and it is remarkably high in Vitamin A, calcium, chlorophyll and plant digestible iron. Nettle is an alterative - an agent that gradually and favorably alters the condition of the blood. It is also a diuretic and liver tonic. Native Americans used it as a remedy for female problems, and I still recommend it for reducing water retention, easing PMS, balancing menopausal extremes and toning the whole female system. It helps control hemorrhaging, cramping and headache associated with menstruation. The ancient Greeks and Romans used Nettle as a remedy for rheumatism and gout, and it is still helpful to rub fresh Nettle juice into gouty, rheumatic or arthritic areas. Last but not least, Nettle can be a significant remedy for hay fever and allergies. Because it has so many benefits and because it is quite safe for long term use, Nettle is worth experimenting with. Grows as weed in the NE

• Oats (Avena sativa)

  Oats, both the straw and the seed, are a wonderful nutritive tonic for the nervous system and are recommended for nervous exhaustion, irritability, stress, nicotine (or other chemical) withdrawal and general debility. Because of its high mucilage content, the seed is a nerve demulcent (soothing and healing to inflamed nerve endings). It and Oat straw are recommended for anyone who is overworked or overstressed or who has frayed, inflamed nerve endings. I especially recommend Oat straw tea for the stress, tension and fatigue or pregnancy. Oat stalks are high in silica and calcium, and are sometimes used externally for chapped or damaged skin. Used for sexual exhaustion and impotency. Grows easily in the NE

• Peppermint Leaf (Mentha piperita)

  Peppermint is totally refreshing - a blast of pure green energy. It is a simplers medicine - one favored by the old time herbalists, who used simple, effective, non-toxic medicines for health. Because of its clean, fresh taste, Peppermint is often included in formulas to counter less tasty ingredients. Peppermint is also a potent digestive aid which is frequently used to steady upset, nauseous stomachs, facilitate smooth bowel movements and ease stomach cramps. A diaphoretic (which promotes perspiration) and a circulatory stimulant, peppermint can speed the natural healing process during a cold, fever or flu. It is suitable for children. Grows easily in the NE