Julie Clarke's Naturally Does It

Ginseng

Ginseng is a Greek word meaning "All Healing", and is primarily a stimulant as it helps the body to use oxygen thus aiding physical energy and mental power. It is also said that it can improve your memory and help with concentration. Ginseng has aphrodisiac properties and can be helpful in removing wrinkles and combating stress.

Note: Ginseng should not be taken with other herbal remedies containing iron, and tea, coffee and alcohol ought to be avoided whilst taking Ginseng.

Mistletoe

The Druids called it a sacred herb and thought the Mistletoe as a heal-all. Mistletoe can inhibit the growth of tumours and has been used in alternative cancer treatment clinics throughout Europe. It can also regulate the heartbeat and is used in poultices for rheumatism. Mistletoe can aid circulation problems, strengthen the capillaries and it can be used as part of the treatment for nervous debility, whooping cough, epilepsy, hardening of the arteries and blood pressure problems.

Note: Never eat the white berries.

Onions

Onions can help asthma, protect against heart attacks and can reduce the likelihood of blood clots. Onions have been scientifically proved to be effective at the site of burns and can stabalise sugar levels. They can lower blood cholesterol and act as an antibiotic especially if eaten raw. Onions can help babies with colic and be used for colds and a runny nose. An onion applied to the forehead may releive migraine and wasp or bee stings.

Natural Laxatives

If you suffer from constipation try one of the following natural remedies: Cascara Sagrasa, Anthraquiones and Aperients, Sennon, Linseed, Psyllium.

Note: Contact a qualified practitioner or your herbalist.

Horsetail

Sweaty feet, skin and tooth enamal, nails, hair and bones, all benefit from horsetail. It can also improve complexion, brittle nails and dry hair. Tea made from horsetail can be very effective in healing ulcers and chest complaints. Gargle with the tea to relieve inflamed tonsils; bathe in horsetail to help rheumatic pains and also chilblains. Some migraine sufferers could benefit from it and you can also use horsetail for cleaning as it has a high soap content.

Jojoba

One of nature's finest softeners, jojoba has a fine ability to penetrate the skin. It is non-greasy and can help people with oily skin because it tricks the body not to produce sebum. Some claim it can prevent baldness.

Stress

When the body is exposed to stress, it automatically switches to a 'fight or flight reaction.' Unless this response is followed by immediate physical exertion, say running about screaming to 'flush out' adrenaline, the body becomes severely taxed. Never be frightened to show emotion which is nature's release of pressure. To read more about how to manage stress Dr. Vernon Coleman's book Mind Power is highly recommended.

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is an antidote to Death Cap toadstool. It can help with liver disease including cirrhosis, hepatitis, jaundice and gall bladder troubles. It is also a nutritional supplement which promotes health by protecting the liver. It can help breast feeding mothers produce milk and is a good treatment for psoriasis.

Mint

Warming and stimulating mint can help flatulence. For colds it can help by raising the body's internal temperature and induce sweating. The digestive system can also benefit from mint as it stimulates bile and can reduce vomiting and nausea. Among other things, it is good for indigestion and can help insomnia as well as being a relaxant. Essential oil (peppermint) can be used to help sinusitis and period pains and prevent head colds.

Note: Do not use for infants.