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FOLK MEDICINE

AND THE OLD WAYS

uses of Herbs, Plants, ROOTS, and other common ingredients

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Plants, Herbs, Roots and other flora

ALFALFA: is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.
ALOE VERA: has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid natural resistance.
ANISE: in tea form and taken as needed, is considered by Herbalists to be another natural expectorant. Old Ways say this herb was used to increase energy but needs to be avoided by those with heart problems; and was used to dispel evil spirts because of its Star-shaped flower. Anise is found in Licorice. Anise seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal area.
BALM OF GILEAD: or American Balsam.The buds of this tree were put in whiskey, and the resulting bitters was used with good results in colic and griping pains in the stomach and bowels. This is a rather pleasant tasting bitters and we boys liked it, and ow and then we "had a pain" in order to induce father to administer to us a dose of this pleasant, sure cure. When he reached for the castor oil bottle, we forgot we had a pain and ran.
BARBERRY: nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps remove toxins from the bowels.
BAYBERRY: is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to stop a cold from forming if taken when the first symptoms appear.
BILBERRY: (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. When British Royal Air Force pilots During World War II ate Bilberry preserves before night missions and discovered that their night vision improved afterwards, this herb was investigated and found to be very beneficial for the eyes. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight. It is believed that this property is related to the high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to prevent capillary fragility and strengthen the capillaries which nourish the eyes. Other properties appear to assist in thinning the blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, also lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides support and enhance the health of collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, thus aiding in the development of strong healthy capillaries that can carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia.
BISTORT ROOT: (Adderwort, Dragonwort, Red Legs, Snakeweed). The Old Ways said that Bistort is one of the most strongly astringent of all herbs, and is used to contract tissues and staunch blood flow. It makes a valuable mouthwash and gargle for treating spongy gums, Burning Mouth Syndrome, canker sores, and sore throats, and is also useful as a wash for small burns and wounds. Good for minor cuts; clean wound and sprinkle directly on wound to stop bleeding, wrap wound with clean bandage.
BLACK COHOSH: The early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the root is reputed to soothe sore throat. They also used the root to help ease complaints associated with the skeletal system. It is a traditional approach for many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps, labor and delivery, and menstruation. When combined with other nervine herbs, it provides excellent soothing properties. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. Studies show it contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. It has also been shown in lab experiments (in vitro) to inhibit microbial activity.
BLACK SNAKEROOT-A decoction of, was employed in rheumatism, drops, and various ailments of the lungs, and to relieve coughs and colds.
BLACK WALNUT: hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites. Although this is the primary purpose of this herb, it is also used for poison oak, ringworm and skin ailments. It has antifungal properties and is also said to promote bowel regularity.
BLACKBERRY-DEWBERRY: The medical properties of these are the same. The root of which is the part used, in the form of tea; it is an astringent, and elegant tonic, and from the time of our grandmothers, to the present day, has remained in great favor; it is an elegant remedy in bowel affections, dysentery, diarrhea, for which the berries and tea of the roots were extensively used with good results, during the war 1861-65 by both Union and Confederate troops.
BLESSED THISTLE: acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system, as well as helping to balance the hormones.
BLUE VERVAIN: nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the organisms which promote flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic, which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by stimulating perspiration.
BONESET: Old Ways (and Native Americans) say to use it for all fever and general debility. Known by my people as "Ague weed," a popular remedy in fever and ague.
BURDOCK ROOT/POWDER: is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and deposits around the joints.
CATNIP-must not be omitted in this list. This herb was brought from Europe by the early immigrants and is now found all over the country, growing wild. Catnip tea is a most valuable remedy and should be used more than it is. It is a good tonic, diuretic, diaphoretic, and anti dysenteric, a valuable remedy for colic in children and adults; also in fevers, colds, dysentery, hysteria and nervousness. iT nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used also for digestion. Catnip is also said to help ease symptoms of the flu such as nausea and diarrhea.
CAYENNE: is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
CHICKWEED: helps the body eliminate mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes the gastrointestinal areas and has soothing properties. It is a natural blood cleanser, as well as an herb that addresses fat accumulations.
CLARY SAGE: Clary Sage helps alleviate the grumpiness that tends to accompany colds. Put with Lavendar Oil in bath water.
COMFREY: nourishes the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), as well as the bones and skin. It also strengthens the respiratory system and is considered to be one of nature's great healers.
CRANBERRY: contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
DANDELION: nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been used traditionally to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory and glandular systems. It was much used as a diuretic, tonic and in lung ailments; also in certain skin affections caused by disordered digestion; the root and leave were chewed constantly; or tea made of the root, and taken every hour or two, freely.
DEVIL'S CLAW: is an herb which has been well-known in Europe and Africa for hundreds of years and is gaining popularity in the United States and the entire North American continent. It is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system. Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone. It helps the body lessen the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues.
DOGWOOD: The bark of the tree, roots, flowers and ripe berries are all used.; a tea of which was employed as a tonic, more particularly as a remedy for fever and ague it was then, as it is now, a popular remedy among country people, and is the best substitute for quinine that we have.
ECHINECEA: Herbalists say to take 3 capsules at each meal for 2 weeks to boost the immune system. (Do not take Echinacea combined with Goldenseal if you have ragweed allergy). May raise blood pressure. Old Ways say that the Echinacea plant will dispel general malaise and keep dark spirits from animals who live on the property. Modern scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the immune system. The active constituents in Echinacea which are thought to bolster the body's defense are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the activity of macrophages, white blood cells which destroy bacteria, viruses, other foreign invaders, and even wayward cells. It also activates the body's production of interferon, a specific protein which protects cells against the invasion of viruses.
ELDERBERRY FLOWERS: is considered an natural antiviral tea and is found in many european formulas and cough drops - Old Ways used Elderberry to make a healing and restorative wine. Elderberry flowers can help rid the body cells of toxins, increase circulation and purify the blood. The tea of Elder fowers, highly sweetened, was used for the cure of colds, for which it is a first class remedy. COUGH SYRUP-An elegant syrup for coughs and colds they made of the juice of onions and sugar.
ELECAMPANE: A tea of the root, usually combined with Cohosh (Black Snakeroot) was used for coughs, lung trouble with a tendency to consumption; for the same, men and boys carried the roots in their pockets, and constantly chewed them, swallowing the juice, till they called themselves cured. Elecampane is a natural expectorant and nourishes the respiratory system.
FENNEL SEEDS: helps detoxify and remove waste material from the body. Add to Peppermint and chamomile to make Tummy mint tea.
FENUGREEK has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory system, and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. Fenugreek dissolves fat and is high in nutrients.
FEVERFEW: Herbalists use product standardized to contain at least 0.7% parthenolide. That is the component of this herb that reduces swelling in the sinuses. They say to take some two or three times a day. Old Ways used this herb to dispell evil intentions.
Flax Seed Oil
Flax seed oil provides omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, as well as the immune and nervous systems. It also contains some beta carotene (approximately 4,300 IU per teaspoon) and vitamin E (appproximately 15 IU per teaspoon).
FLAXSEED: It produces an emulcent tea, said to be equally effective in soothing, healing properties, as the Slippery Elm. Add ground flaxseed to cookies and muffins to reduce cholesterol.
GARLIC: provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
GENTIAN ROOT: nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the appetite, nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas, stomach and kidneys.
GINGER ROOT: is nourishing to the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body to eliminate wastes through the skin. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a catalyst for other herbs, to increase their effectiveness. It helps the body relieve congestion.
GINSING: is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy. It nourishes the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina. Many just chew on a piece of root for energy. Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which normally would alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body energy to overcome stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng may help reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance the immune system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells.
GOLDEN SEAL: is used both internally and externally to help the body fight infections with its nutritional properties. It helps the body soothe inflammations of the mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb especially nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. Golden seal helps cleanse the system of foreign organisms.
HAWTHORN BERRIES is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory system, particularly the heart. It has been used for centuries with great success, especially in Europe. Even today it remains a favorite among herbalists as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure and circulation. When used on a regular, long-term basis hawthorn exerts a continued protection to the cardiovascular system.
HOPS: helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is rich in nutrients that nourish the nervous system. The herbalist Culpeper said, "It opens obstructions of the liver and spleen, cleanses the blood, loosens the belly, cleanses the veins from gravel and provokes urine." This plant is considered both a tonic and relaxant.
HOREHOUND ROOT: is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant. Main ingredient to horehound cough drops. It was a great herbal remedy of long ago, and is still prominent in domestic practice; by our ancestors, as now, it was employed with marked benefit in coughs, colds, catarrh and chronic affections of the lungs. It ws taken in tea, well sweetened, three or four times a day.
HORSETAIL: is rich in "beauty" nutrients that nourish the nails, skin, hair, bones and the body's connective tissue. It is also benefits the glands and urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply of nutrients.
HYSSOP: has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for afflictions of the respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs.
Irish Moss
IRISH MOSS: is high in nutrients and nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland.
JUNIPER BERRIES: strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess water and toxins.
KELP: contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
LADY SLIPPER: is a member of the orchid family. This delicate flower contains in its root many nervine properties.
LAVENDER: Lavender essential oil works to relax muscles and can help soothe coughs when used in baths. Old Ways say to plant Purple Lavender for Luck in the East, and dry it in bundles upside down to preserve the purple flowers after the morning dew is goine, and use in pillows to calm nerves.
LICORICE ROOT: nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart and spleen. This herb can soothe irritated mucous membranes and help the body get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties. Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress.
LOBELIA: has been traditionally revered for its soothing properties that nourish the nervous system. Lobelia also enhances the function of the respiratory system and has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in preparations designed to lessen one's desire for nicotine.
MARSHMELLOW: has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
MILK THISTLE extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract contains silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the active ingredient of milk thistle.
MULLEIN: has been referred to as a "natural wonder herb" which soothes the lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Mullein can help remove mucus from the system. Mullein, in tea form and taken as needed, is considered by Herbalists to be a natural expectorant. Old Ways say to use Mullein to promote good sleep and decrease dreaming/nightmare problems, and
MYRRH: Traditionally, the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for soothing muscles and wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucuous membranes with its cleansing effects. The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a comforting gargle for a scratchy throat.
PARSLEY: is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
PASSIONFLOWER has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness by nourishing the nervous system. Passionflower has been traditionally used in both herbal and homeopathic medicine for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments show that passicol, an alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds, yeasts, and bacteria.
PEPPERMINT: calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It comforts the stomach and nourishes the salivary glands to help with digestion. It has astringent properties and soothes the nervous system. It was a great favorite among the Grandmother Remedies and stood high in th list, as a grateful aromatic stimulant, successfully employed in form of tea to allay nausea, relieve pains of the stomach and bowels, to expel flatus, etc. Besidesit was a favorite, healthful tea at the supper table.
PERIWINKLE: helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced circulation.
PIPSISSEWA-found in the forests all over the United States, was much used by the Indians for many ailments. It is a valuable tonic, and is aso used with benefit in scrofula and dropsy. It is used at the present time, with benefit in skn diseases, pimples and facial eruptions. It is used in the form of tea. For pimples and eruptions of the face, the tea is usd inwardly, and also as a wash on the eruptions at the same time.
PRICKLY ASH-The bark of the Pricky Ash was an Indian remedy for jaundice and toth-ache, and received fom them by our ancestors who used it like the Indians, continuously chewed the bark, and swallowed te "proceeds." Prickly Ash nourishes and enhances circulation throughout the entire body.
PYCNOGENOL: is an antioxidant derived from the bark of pine trees. Herbalists use this as a supplement during allergy seasons. Old Ways say that to plant pine trees on your property if none exist.
QUERCETIN: (a bioflavonoid found in garlic and onions) acts as a natural antihistamine and antioxidant. Other sources include red grapes, grapefruit, apples and black tea. Herbalists recommend this as a supplement during allergy season because of its natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects. The Old Ways said to eat yellow onions and garlic during allergy seasons, and grow 3 rows of yellow onions west of your home. Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.
RED RASPBERRY leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body so that diarrhea or constipation can be relieved.
RHUBARB: can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
SAFFLOWER: The flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. Safflower helps balance cholesterol in the body, and assists in eliminating excessive uric acid. It helps break up phlegm and soothes the digestive system.
SAGE-A tea of sage, well sugared, was then, as now in high favor as a remedy for colds, sore throat and for relieving night sweats. A very strong tea of sage was successfully used as a gargle in sore throat. Sage helps check excessive mucus in the body.
SARSAPARILLA: contains substances which are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and balance the glandular system.
SAW PALMETTO berry is said to nourish glandular tissue, and has been used by herbalists and others to nutritionally support the prostate gland.
SCULLCAP: is one of the most powerful herbs to help you get a better night's sleep. It calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood pressure.
SLIPPERY ELM-The tea of Slippery Elm was extensively used by our ancestors for the relief of dysentery, diarrhea, and especially in diseases of the urinary channels, to relieve and cure painful, burning micturition. If persistantly used for the latter, no more mild, nor better remedy is known. It can help the body eliminate mucus from the lungs and strengthen the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. It soothes irritated tissues and helps nourish and strengthen the body.
SQUAW VINE: strengthens the uterus, and helps relieve congestion there and in the ovaries. It may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections.
STINGING NETTLE: extract is an excellent antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. Stinging Nettle Tea has been used by native americans for centuries for colds and chest congestion. The Old Ways people say that it does not impact mother's milk, as does regular antihistamines.
SUMACH BERRIES-(Rhus Glabrum) also known as Pennsylvania Sumach, was,and is yet, by poorly informed people, regarded as a poisonous shrub. This is not the case. Some people in country-districts of the olden time, ate the berries with impunity, because they liked the sour, astringent taste. The medical propertie of Sumach berries are similar to those of Oak bark; and a tea of the berries was then, as it is now, used with great benefit as a gargle in sore throat, either simply inflamed and painful,or ulcerated sore throat; it is one of the best remedies for these ailments known. Try it.
The highly effective properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw plant have demonstrated, through centuries of usage dating back to the time of the ancient Incas, to have a profound and positive influence on the body's defense system. Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage and indicates that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known to help nutritionally support the body's defense, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.
THYME: is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic, with healing powers. It is said to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal disturbances. The patch of Thyme was found in almost every garden of the "Olden Days"; was variously employed, but did not stand high as a remedial agent. It was more frequently used as a change in tea at the table.
VALERIAN ROOT: nourishes the nervous system and has soothing properties. Valerian is a safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe rattled nerves and assists the body in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to give calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels.
VITAMIN C: Herbalists say to take 1,000 mg once or twice a day during allergy season. This should be reduced or eliminated during the off-season. *Recent studies suggest vitamin C in high doses may cause thickening of arteries and interfere with certain cancer therapy.
WHITE OAK BARK: is a marvelous herb to help nourish and strengthen injured areas of the body. It has been used successfully for many applications, including fortifying blood vessels and tissues. White Oak has astringent properties, and it also soothes the throat.
WHITE WILLOW: benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works like a mild and natural analgesic which is gentle on the stomach.
WHITEOAK BARK-The tea of Whiteoak bark was used by our ancestors as an astringent and styptic, and as such stands high to this day. It is a excellent gargle in sore thoat; as a styptic in hemorrage, especially following the extraction of teeth. They put especial value on the tea of White-Oak bark, or leaves, for the cure of incontinence of urine (bed wetting).
WILD CHERRY BARK-This bark is used to this day for the same ailments, in regular practice, exactly as it was by our ancestors a hundred years ago; it is one of the most valuable of our indigenous remedies. It possesses remarkable tonic power, uniting with this the property of calming irritation, and diminishing nervous excitability The continued use of tea of wild cherry bark, three or four times a day, is known to have reduced the pulse from seventy down to fifty strokes per minute. It is an admirable medicine for ailments involving the stomach, in the hectic fever of scrofula; is valuable in general debility in convalescents for dyspepsia. A valuable tonic syrup of Wild cherry was made by boiling the tea of the bark down very strong, then adding sugar enough, while boiling, to form a syrup; used three or four times daily, in table spoonful doses.
WILD YAM: has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes the digestive system and the nerves.
WORMWOOD: Old herbals say that this herb helps eliminate worms and parasites. It also is used to ward off evil spirits by hanging bundles of the herb beside doors and windows.
YELLOW DOCK t is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, stimulates bile production, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies the blood.

Drying Herbs
Drying needs to occur as soon as possible after picking. Herbs can be dried in shaded, warm, well-ventilated rooms that are free from moisture. Loosely tie herbs in small bunches by their stems and hang them, or hang them out of doors, out of direct sunlight. Spread sprigs of herbs, seeds, bark or root over trays, netting, or a drying frame. Spread the herbs out to allow for plenty of space between them. turn frequently once daily. Store in airtight containers, some may be frozen in vacuum sealed bags and frozen.

FORMULAS AND CONCOCTIONS

 

Herbal Decoction
1 oz. dried herbs or 2 oz. fresh herbs, put in the woody parts of the plant
2 3/4 cups cold water
Place herbs in stainless or enamel pan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat, strain and store or drink immediately
 
Herbal Infusion
1 oz. dried herbs or 2 oz. fresh
2 1/2 cups boiling water
Warm the pot with warm water and add herbs. boil water. Add it to the herbs, cover the container and infuse for ten minutes. Strain and drink or store.
 
Herbal Syrup
24 oz. mixture of thin honey and unrefined sugar, ratio of 1:1
2 1/2 cups of double strength infusion or decoction
Heat infusion or decoction with the honey, stir as it starts to thicken andskim off stuff from the surface. Cool and pour into cork-topped bottles. Drink immediately or store in refrigerator. Dosage is two teaspoons for kids, three or four times a day for chronic problems, and six to eight times a day in acute illness.
 
Herbal Salve
2 cups olive oil
Boiling Water
Muslin Bag
20 ozs. beeswax
fresh or dried herbs
Mix oil and beeswax together in a heatproof dish, add as much of your chosen herbs as the mixture will cover and mix. Heat gently over a saucepan of boiling water for two or three hours. Press through a muslin bag and discard herb. Pour warm oil into a jar and let it sit to solidify.
 
Herbal Poultice
herbs fresh or dried, bruised
Hot Water
two pieces of gauze
light cotton bandage
If using fresh herbs, bruise with mortar and pestle. If using dried, add hot water to make a paste. Place enough herb to cover the area between two pieces of gauze. Use a light cotton bandage to bind the poultice to the areas of pain or swelling. Keep it warm with a hot water bottle or heating pad.
 
Herbal Compress
Herbs of your choice, hot or cold infusion or decoction, or water with a few drops of essential oil.
Flannel or a small towel
Soak a cloth in the herbal preparation, Remove flannel or cloth from bowl and wring out excess liquid. Apply to the areas of pain or swelling, repeating several times.
 
Herbal Infused Oil
4 1/2 cups cold pressed walnut, safflower or almond oil
fresh or dried herbs, enough to pack the jar you're going to use
Pack a glass jar with herbs and cover with oil. Seal with an airtight lid and leave in a sunny place for two weeks, shaking daily. Squeeze the oil through a muslin bag into a jar. Strain and pour into a dark-colored glass bottle.
 
Protection Bath Oil
4 drops of Peppermint Oil
1 drops of Rosemary Oil
2 drops of Orange Oil (not extract)
1 drop of Sandalwood Oil
Mix well in bathwater and soak in evening bath. Old Ways say that you are to leave the water in the tub until the dawn. It is best made on the full Moon. Be sure to pour some of the bath water around the base of the house for protection. If troubled spirits come around, rub some on your feet as you walk so that your steps cannot be followed.
 
Rosemary Linament to increase circulation
25 drops rosemary essential oil
25 drops lavender oil,
10 drops marjoram oil (avoid during pregnancy)
1 drop capsicum tincture (Cayenne)
1/4 cup almond oil.
Shake well before use and rub on affected area of body. Do not use internally or use near eyes or reproductive areas.
 
Lavender/Sage Bubble Bath
1 tablespoons unscented liquid soap to emulsify the oils so for the bath water.
5 drops Clary Sage essential oil
10 drops Lavender essential oil
Mix well, and then pour under running hot water into tub - do not get near eyes or reproductive areas.
 
Sage Chest Rub
1/2 teaspoon eucalyptus essential oil
1/8 teaspoon peppermint essential oil
1/8 teaspoon rosemary essential oil
1/8 teaspoon clary sage essential oil
1/4 cup olive oil
Mix ingredients together in a glass bottle (not plastic as the essential oils will bleed into it making the rub less effective) and shake well. Massage onto chest as often as needed.
 
Bistort Mouthwash for Burning Mouth Syndrome - do not swallow
1/2 teaspoon of ground Bistort Root
1/2 cup of warm tap water.
Brush and floss prior to use and rinse mouth and teeth clean with warm water. Take Swish thoroughly in mouth and over tongue. Spit out and rise again with remainder of mouthwash until all is gone. Rrinse clear with warm tap water. This astringent mouthwash can be used daily.
 
Potato Skins Broth
To aid in recovery from a hard illness- its makes a restorative broth
skin 6 big potatoes
1 quart water
Put skins of the potato in the water and simmer 1 hour
 
Slippery Elm Drops:
Herbalists say that Slippery Elm Bark is wonderful for dry mouth and sore throats. It is found in most natural foods stores and cough drops found in pharmacies.
Melt one cough drop every 2 hours in the mouth for dry mouth followed by 1 cup of water; for sore throats, melt as needed. (Not for young kids because of a potential choking hazard.).
Old Ways say that Slippery Elm Bark is the best remedy for relieving sore throats, and a tea is made from bark and sweetened with honey.
 
Tisana Tea
1 Ricola cough drop, ground into a powder (regular flavor)
6 ounces of hot water
1/2 teaspoon of clover honey
Drink in the AM and PM - you can double the recipe for 2 people but use 3 cough drops.
 
Kalisatsu Syrup
Old Ways say that this special homemade syrup is balancing the energies of the body, and was a gift from the Sky Gods. It is said to be good for stomach ailments and especially Irritable Bowel Syndrome, intestinal upset and digestive problems. Do not use any substitutes:
2 cups water
4 regular teabags (4 teaspoons) of regular Green Tea leaves (caffienated)
10 tablespoons of Clover Honey
6 tablespoons Virgin Olive Oil
4 teaspoons of chopped fresh garlic
2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
Boil water and tea down to 1 and 1/2 cups - turn to medium heat. Strain all water from teabags, and discard teabags. Saute garlic in oil until golden, and add to brewing tea. Add honey, vinegar and cayenne. Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, until thick syrup is obtained. Cool and strain into sterile container. Discard Garlic, and refrigerate. Old Ways Dosage:1 teaspoon each morning for 2 weeks - enough for 2 people for 2 weeks.
 
Emmenagog Itch Salve
1 part flour of Sulphur
3 parts Lard
Rub together cold and place on itchy sking or other skin diseases were cured by the use of a salve made of one part of flour of sulphur to three parts lard, rubbed together cold.
 
Sticking Plaster
1 part Bees Wax
1 part Pine Resin
3 parts of Lambs tallow
Melt together and and coat well a patch of thin leather and place on the region of the pain.
 
Old sores that refuse to heal
Grate a carrot and heat thorough in hot water. Apply hot, as a poultice, on sore.
Poultices of bread and milk, flax seed, corn meal, can sometimes be used in its place. Old Ways say that praying over the poultice increasing healing.
 
Counter Irritant for pain relief:
The benefits of counter irritants were well known to our ancestors for the relief of inward disease and pain; mustard plaster was their general escharotic.
 
Headache:
Place brown paper soaked in cold vinegar on the forehead
 
Sty on the eye:
(1) make a poultice with used tea leaves ( also used for snowblindness)
(2) cross your eye with a wedding band 9 times
Boils:
Mix soap and molasses together into a paste and apply to boil
Insect bites:
Mix baking soda with a litlle water to form a paste and apply to the area
Cuts and sores:
Make poultice with home-baked bread and very hot water. Apply to the area affected.
Mix Goldenseal herb with vaseline and apply to cleaned cut.
Clean cut with apple cider vinegar, cover with cleaned cotten cloth.
Place white sugar on wound, put a few drops of turpintine, cover.
 
Uploaded 6/07