​After returning from Iraq, I found myself suffering from relentless pain from an injury. I could not sleep and there were other symptoms. The Army doctor simply gave me Motrin and sent me on my way. This continued for 9 years until I left the Army. When the VA got hold of me they made me into a lab experiment and after 6 years finally settled on a course of treatment that included Fluoxetine for PTSD, Lisinopril for High Blood Pressure, Hydrocodone for pain, and Atorvastatin for cholesterol. In my studies to become a Master Herbalist I discovered that Fluoxetine inhibits the ability for Hydrocodone to provide pain relief. Not only that but Hydrocodone combined with Fluoxetine causes high blood pressure and muscle pain.  Needless to say, I was still struggling with pain and HBP. I guess the doctor did not check for drug interactions.

     ​Adverse drug reactions (ADR) is a growing epidemic in the United States.  It is the 4th leading cause of death in the USA and affects all ages from infants to the elderly.  It is true that your risk rises as you get older.  What is the cause?  You be the judge. Here are some statistics to think about.

     Adverse drug reactions (ADR) vary in severity. Some are not very serious, others cause death, hospitalization, or serious injury of more than 2 million people in the United States each year, including more than 100,000 fatalities. In fact, adverse drug reactions are one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Most of the time, these dangerous events could and should have been avoided. Even the less drastic reactions, such as change in mood, loss of appetite, and nausea, may seriously diminish the quality of life.
     A review of patients admitted to medical wards of a hospital found that 3.8% of hospital admissions were due to  adverse drug reactions that led directly to hospitalization, 57% of these adverse drug reactions were not recognized by the attending physician at the time of admission. As in numerous other studies, many of these admissions should have been prevented. In fact, 18.6% of all drugs prescribed prior to admission were contraindicated.
     The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. (AHRQ) estimated that drug-related adverse events occurred in nearly 1.9 million inpatient stays, which include events ranging from when little to no harm is caused to events that result in death. Additionally, studies show that elderly patients and patients prescribed a greater number of medications are at increased risk for ADEs.
     So, what’s the moral to this story?  If you are on medication check to ensure that they do not interfere with each other or cause unwanted affects.  Check it for yourself, Determine your future health today, just don’t take the doctors word for it.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22253191
http://www.worstpills.org/public/page.cfm?op_id=4
https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165%2F00002018-200528010-00005
http://www.hret-hiin.org/Resources/ade/17/ADE_ChangePackage-508.pdf

after in the prevention and treatment of diabetes, inflammation, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia or increased oxidative stress, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and dementia in addition to other age-related diseases. Bilberry contains numerous phenolic compounds, including the flavonols, quercetin and catechins, tannins, ellagitannins and phenolic acids; however, the anthocyanins found in the bilberry are, by far, the largest contribution to its phytonutrient density. 

Research has found that taking bilberry extract daily for 30 days reduces symptoms associated with a circulation problem called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Research also suggests that taking 100-480 mg of bilberry daily for up to 6 months might improve swelling, pain, bruising, and burning associated with CVI.

The typical dose of the dried, ripe berries: 20-60 grams daily. These can be eaten or made into a tea.

Bilberry Tincture taken twice daily has been used in people with diseased retinas.

Bilberry leaf is commonly used as a tea. The tea is prepared by steeping 1 gram, 1-2 teaspoons, finely chopped dried leaf in 150 mL boiling water for 5-10 minutes, and then straining. Don’t use bilberry leaf long-term.

​To know comfrey is to love the plant.  I can’t get enough of this plant.  Weather you grow it in your garden, buy it or find it in the wild, I know you’ll just love it too.

Before we continue here is a down and dirty look at what Comfrey can do for you.

The common name, comfrey, comes from the Latin words “con” and “firma” meaning “with strength.” The name refers to the plant’s reputation for healing scrapes and wounds. Comfrey’s specific scientific name is Symphytum officinale.
 
Comfrey has a centuries-old tradition as a medicinal plant. Today, multiple randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of comfrey preparations for the topical treatment of pain, inflammation and swelling of muscles and joints in degenerative arthritis, acute myalgia in the back, sprains, contusions and strains after sports injuries and accidents.
 
Comfrey root contains allantoin, mucilage polysaccharides, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic glycopeptides, amino acids, triterpene, oleanolic acid, and lithospermic acid.
 
Its main component, Allantoin is a natural compound. It promotes granulation and cell formation. Allantoin promotes cell healing. Allantoin, along with a density of trace vitamins and minerals, make Comfrey the best of all plants in the herbal kingdom for cell proliferation. Scientists have also observed the plant’s anti-inflammatory effects.  Comfrey is an astringent; it can help to minimize pores. A comfrey leaf infusion can tightens the surface of skin and creates a more supple and vibrant look.
 
Rosmarinic acid is a plant-based compound that displays general anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial activity, and may protect against various forms of cancers. Additionally, it can be absorbed through the skin when in an ethanol base.
 
How does it Work:
                Comfrey carries large amounts of allantoin which can help to stimulate cell proliferation, this is why the herb is sometimes called knitbone. It literally knits your skin and bones back together for you. It also contains a keratolytic agent that will help to loosen and shed the first layer of skin to help soften and moisturize the skin. This is why it helps work as a cooling demulcent, anti-inflammatory and a wound healer.
 
How to use Comfrey
Comfrey infuses well into massage oil and does a great job at easing those tender spots. Make an olive oil infusion using comfrey leaf, let set in the sun or windowsill for 2 weeks. Then use this oil to add to beauty products, message oils, or ointments for added healing. In fresh form, mix together equal parts cleaned root and leaf in a blender, add water until it’s a real gooey mess. Use this as a poultice once daily until ailment has healed.

Caution: 
This herb should not be ingested because of it’s high levels of pyrrolizidine alkaloids and their liver toxicity.
 Don’t use this when pregnant or nursing. As with all topical products, place a tiny bit on a spot on your hand and see if you have a negative reaction.

​Hello Everyone!  This week I have had several things happen that made me reflect on depression, so I decided to write about it and how we can overcome it naturally without the extreme side effects of prescription medications.  This is a very long post so to for the benefit of everyone here is what it covers. You can scroll down to the a particular part or read the whole thing.

1. Depression, what is it?
2. Statistics on Depression.
3. Facts that we need to know.
4. Causes of Depression
5. Diet, the number one way to combat depression
6. Herbs for Depression
7. Essential Oils for Depression
8. Exercise and Activities

Depression, what is it?
Depression is a serious medical illness with mood, cognitive, and physical symptoms. Depression is associated with higher rates of chronic disease, increased health care utilization, and impaired functioning. Losing a loved one, getting fired from a job, going through a divorce, and other difficult situations can lead a person to feel sad, lonely and scared. These feelings are normal reactions to life's stressors. Most people feel low and sad at times. However, in the case of individuals who are diagnosed with depression as a psychiatric disorder, the manifestations of the low mood are much more severe and they tend to persist.
Depression can manifest with a variety of different symptoms including:

​Depression is when a person experiences low mood persistently, to the point that it starts to interfere with her daily life. Struggling with depression can be extremely painful for both the person experiencing the symptoms and their loved ones.

The Statistics
• During 2009–2012, 7.6% of Americans aged 12 and over had depression (moderate or severe depressive symptoms in the past 2 weeks). Depression was more prevalent among females and persons aged 40–59.
• Almost 43% of persons with severe depressive symptoms reported serious difficulties in work, home, and social activities.
• Of those with severe symptoms, 35% reported having contact with a mental health professional in the past year.
• More than 15% of persons living below the federal poverty level had depression compared with 6.2% of persons living at or above the poverty level

The Facts
• Depression and anxiety disorders are different, but people with depression often experience symptoms similar to those of an anxiety disorder, such as nervousness, irritability, and problems sleeping and concentrating.

      3.  Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9% of those suffering receive treatment.

• Depression occurs more often in women than men.
  1. In men it manifests often as tiredness, irritability and anger. They may show more reckless behavior and abuse drugs and alcohol. They also tend to not recognize that they are depressed and fail to seek help.
  2. In women depression tends to manifest as sadness, worthlessness, and guilt.
  3. In younger children depression is more likely to manifest as school refusal, anxiety when separated from parents, and worry about parents dying.
  4. Depressed teenagers tend to be irritable, sulky, and get into trouble in school.
• 1 out of 7 individuals will suffer from depression symptoms at some point in his or her life?
• Depression is associated with higher rates of chronic disease, increased health care utilization, and impaired functioning.
• Depression is one of the main causes of disability in developed, as well as low and medium income countries.

Conventional treatment for depression typically involves the use of medications and/or psychotherapy. The most widely used form of medication for depression is SSRIs, or selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, which include drugs like Celexa, Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil. Research shows that antidepressant medications do help patients with depression, but they work as symptom suppressors rather than cures. Once a patient is no longer taking the antidepressants, the symptoms will probably recur. In addition, antidepressant medications have serious side effects that can include suicidal thoughts, weight gain and personality changes. Another danger of psychotropic drugs like SSRIs is that they can cause neurotransmitter degradation, leading to changes in the brain.

But what are we doing to prevent and treat this life-altering mood disorder? 

The typical treatment — antidepressant medications — comes with a slew of side effects. However, sometimes people don’t know where to turn to find a treatment that won’t bring on more health problems. But, the good news is there are natural remedies for depression that are effective and address the root cause of the disease. If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your depressive symptoms, a healthy diet that provides critical vitamins and minerals for hormone balance and brain function, essential oils for depression and lifestyle changes are just some of your options.

             b. Fruits and Vegetables: A diet high in fruits and vegetables increases your intake of vital nutrients                  that support your mood. Fruits and veggies high in folate, for example, promote the brain’s                            metabolic processes and research shows that a folate deficiency can lead to depressive symptoms.

​            c. Anti-oxidant foods; A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that antioxidant                    therapy for 6 weeks significantly reduced both depression and anxiety scores in observed patients.

           d. Eat only healthy fats; Healthy fats provide important vitamins and minerals that boost energy                        levels and mood. Plus, eating healthy fats helps to prevent free radical damage that may be                            associated with depression. But it’s important to understand that not all fats are created equal. In                    fact, research shows that there’s a detrimental relationship between consuming trans fats (like                        hydrogenated oils) and depression risk.
                              1) avocados, 
                              2) grass-fed butter, 
                              3) coconut oil, 
                              4) extra virgin olive oil 
       e. Lean Protein: Eating protein is critical for supporting neurological function and balancing hormones.            Protein foods also provide energy and boost our mood. We need to consume plenty of protein                        throughout the day because the amino acids allow for many of the body’s functions. When you don’t            eat enough protein, you become fatigued, your immunity weakens and you experience moodiness.
                              1) grass-fed beef, 
                              2) lentils, 
                              3) wild fish, 
                              4) organic chicken, 
                              5) black beans, 
                              6) homemade yogurt, 
                              7) free-range eggs, 
                              8) raw cheese 
                              9) bone broth.
        f. Probiotic Foods: Eating probiotic foods increases energy levels, supports cognitive function and                    promotes mental wellness.

​Whatever you do Avoid Refined Carbohydrates and Sugars. Have you ever wondered why you crave refined carbohydrates and sugars when you’re feeling sad? If you tend to reach for the cookies or potato chips in tough moments, it’s because high carbohydrates foods trigger a release of serotonin, a natural opioid that acts in the brain similarly to the drug opium. Although these foods are improving your mood for the moment, they are also leading to weight gain, issues with sleep, candida overgrowth and low energy levels, making your depression symptoms worse. An investigation conducted at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas found that sugar consumption rates were correlated with the annual rate of major depression. And a systematic review published by the American Public Health Association found that there is a significant relationship between unhealthy dietary patterns (such as eating a “Western diet” that’s made up of mostly processed foods) and poorer mental health in children and adolescents.  Diets that are high in refined sugars are actually harmful to your brain because they promote inflammation and oxidative stress.

​Herbs
1. St. John’s Wort; Several studies show that St. John’s wort can help to fight mild to Moderate depression

​radicals. It can help to treat depression by increasing uptake of both serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters often low in those with depression.Ginkgo extract can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol .Ginkgo leaves contain long-chain alkylphenols which are highly allergenic. These are similar to the irritating compounds found in poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. If you have a known allergy to any of these plants, it’s best to avoid taking ginkgo. A typical ginkgo dose is 40 mg three times a day for a total of 120 mg. It’s usually advised to start at a low dose and take with meals to avoid gastrointestinal distress. Doses of up to 240 mg per day are often recommended for therapeutic purposes.
3. Thyme is a great source of lithium and tryptophan. Both can help as mood stabilizers and sleep and calming aids in the small doses available simply by using the spice in cooking.
4. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in the Indian spice turmeric which is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and brain-boosting properties. Curcumin works by increasing levels of two “feel good” neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine. Studies have shown it to be as effective for depression as the popular SSRI Prozac. It’s beneficial for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and major depressive disorder. Both turmeric and curcumin supplements can be taken for depression indefinitely. And unlike some natural depression remedies, curcumin not only can be safely combined with antidepressant drugs it actually enhances their effectiveness.
5. Saffron is one of the rarest and most expensive culinary spices in the world. It comes from the tiny red stigmas of the purple saffron crocus and must be harvested by hand. saffron natural remedy for depression 

​Essential Oils
1. Lavender Oil; Lavender oil helps to relieve stress, promote a feeling of peace and improve sleep. It actually has a long history of medicinal use for mood disorders because it has sedative and calming properties. Studies show that lavender oil also has neuroprotective effects. It enhances dopamine receptors and works as an antioxidant. To use lavender oil as a natural remedy for depression, add 5–10 drops to warm bath water, diffuse 5–10 drops in your bedroom at night to promote sleep, and apply 2–3 drops topically to the temples, chest and wrists in the morning.
2. Bergamot oil is a great antidepressant because it’s very stimulating. Bergamot can create a feeling of joy, freshness and energy by improving the circulation of your blood. It’s also shown the ability to work as a natural remedy for anxiety, as a 2011 study in Thailand found. You can use bergamot oil by rubbing two to three drops into your hands and cupping your mouth and nose. Breathe in the oil slowly. Try rubbing the oil on your feet and stomach, too.
3. One valuable benefit of vanilla essential oil is its natural anti-depressant activity. Vanillin, a compound found in vanilla essential oil, has been shown to have anti-depressant like effects similar to Prozac in a recent study.
4. Clary sage essential oil promotes feelings of hopefulness, increases confidence and is a very uplifting oil. In a 2010 study, clary sage oil was proven to be an effective anti-depressant by modifying dopamine pathways in the brain. The oil can also help alleviate feelings of fear and anxiety and evoke feelings of calm and relaxation.

​Exercise 
Exercise gives you a boost of energy, helps you to sleep better and builds confidence. These benefits of exercise will improve depressive symptoms and promote feelings of happiness and self-worth. A 2012 systematic review found that exercise can help to reduce the symptoms of depression, especially when its done in combination with psychological therapies. Aim to exercise three to five days a week for 20 minutes 

References:
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression
https://draxe.com/natural-remedies-depression/
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db172.htm
http://www.teaanswers.com/nettle-tea-health-benefits-side-effects/
​

Free radicals can be complicated they affect our immune system and your body’s energy production. We get free radicals both from our body and the environment.  Stress can trigger your body to make them in abundance, and we all know that stress is prevalent in out modern society. The pollutants produced by modern technologies often generate free radicals in the body.  Processed foods frequently contain high levels of lipid peroxides, which produce free radicals that damage the cardiovascular system. Alcohol is a potent generator of free radicals. Believe it or not extreme exercise causes an increase in free radicals. Antioxidants are the key to fighting free radicals.

​The American Heart Association, along with the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, recommend getting antioxidants naturally from whole foods, an unprocessed diet with a wide variety of fruits and veggies, rather than from supplements. 

​Determine your future health, Read More

​Humans need oxygen to live. For humans to sustain normal functions, the percentage of oxygen required to sustain life falls within a small range. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, determined the optimal range of oxygen in the air for humans runs between 19.5 and 23.5 percent. Serious side effects can occur if the oxygen levels are too low or too high.  Higher-than-normal oxygen levels are harmful to life. High levels of oxygen cause oxidizing free radicals to form. These free radicals attack the tissues and cells of the body. The effects from short exposure can most likely be reversed, but lengthy exposure can lead to disease and death. Free radicals and oxidants play a dual role since they can be either harmful or helpful to the body. They are produced either from normal cell metabolisms in stress or from external sources such as pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation and medications. When free radicals accumulate in the body they cause a phenomenon called oxidative stress. This process plays a major part in the development of chronic and degenerative illness such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, aging, cataract, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Free radicals also serve a vital role in the body's normal function. Among other things, they help kill invading bacteria and also play a role in cell signaling, telling cells to start or stop making various proteins.

​stress may cause disease. A stressful life mass-produces free radicals.
​
4. Pollution and other external substances:  The pollutants produced by modern technologies often generate free radicals in the body. The food most of us buy contains farm chemicals, including fertilizers and pesticides, that produce free radicals when we ingest them. Prescription drugs often have the same effect; their harmful side-effects may be caused by the free radicals they generate. Cigarette smoke generates high free-radical concentrations; much of the lung damage associated with smoking is caused by free radicals. Air pollution has similar effects.

powder or a wide range of various ones. There are plenty of “snake blood sellers” out there, as I call them, that create programs that make you feel that you need to buy lots of supplements. When vitamins and minerals occur naturally in foods, they exist in amounts that your body can easily manage. Many vitamins are water soluble, and thus if you take excess amounts, your body will flush them out naturally when you urinate. Essential Vitamins A, D, E, and K, however, are fat soluble and stored in your body. Because your body does not naturally excrete them, they can build up to toxic levels. Some trace minerals can also have 

​7.  Extreme exercise: Your body has a limited capacity to increase its antioxidants and control free radicals. Some researchers believe that long, intense exercise (especially endurance training) may cause more oxidative stress than humans can handle. “Heavy and sustained exercise training generates large quantities of free-radicals that likely outstrip the buffering capacity of the system, leaving these individuals susceptible to oxidative stress…” writes Harshal R. Patil, the author of a recent review on this topic. This is thought to be true “even in superbly trained individuals.” In theory, your body runs out of antioxidants 

​     The body has several mechanisms to counteract oxidative stress by manufacturing its own antioxidants (endogenous antioxidants), or getting them externally supplied through foods (exogenous antioxidants). The roles of antioxidants are to neutralize the excess of free radicals, to protect the cells against their toxic effects and to contribute to disease prevention. When an antioxidant destroys a free radical, this antioxidant itself becomes oxidized. Therefore, the antioxidant resources must be constantly restored in the body.
How do we fight Free radicals?
​

1. Diet: A well balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is important and will help, but alone it’s just not enough. Factory processing, additives and pesticides all work to destroy antioxidants within our foods and nutrient depleted soils no longer provide us with the nutrient rich foods that our grandparents enjoyed.  The following list of antioxidants play an important role in free radical protection, especially for the active athlete: vitamins A, C and E; beta-carotene; bioflavonoids; CoQ10; selenium; and zinc. Copper and manganese have roles in antioxidant production as well.

2. Exercise: Regularly getting moderate amounts of exercise. Keep in mind that while being sedentary is definitely not helping you to age any slower, either is overworking yourself. Exhaustion, mental fatigue and burnout also cause the immune system and body more damage.

3. Avoid Toxins and Pollutants: Besides improving your diet, here are other ways to start reducing free radical damage:
     a. Avoiding environmental pollutants in water
     b. Reducing chemical exposure in household and cosmetic products, such as by purchasing those that               are natural and made from essential oils
     c. Avoiding overuse of medications and antibiotics
​
4. Don’t supplement: Because of the complexities of how antioxidants work in the body to combat free radicals, some scientists believe that only in food form do phytonutrients or antioxidants interact beneficially with our bodies. the American Heart Association, along with the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, recommend getting antioxidants naturally from whole foods, an unprocessed diet with a wide variety of fruits and veggies, rather than from supplements. With the invention of anti-aging supplements, experts now worry that people may rely on supplements to counteract unhealthy lifestyle choices and poor nutrition. There’s also the risk that consuming high doses of concentrated antioxidants from supplements may compromise the defensive role of free radicals in the immune system or have other problematic effects like interfering with proper exercise recovery. The bottom line is that according to studies, isolating specific antioxidants and consuming them from pills to lower free radicals isn’t very helpful, especially compared to eating whole foods. Variety and interaction of many different antioxidants as they exist in food seem to be most beneficial for longevity and optimal health.

References:

American Chemical Society. (2004, June 14). Largest USDA Study Of Food Antioxidants Reveals Best Sources. ScienceDaily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/06/040617080908.htm

Axe, J. (2018). Fighting Free Radicals & Free Radical Damage. Retrieved from Dr. Axe: Food is Medicine: https://draxe.com/fighting-free-radical-damage/

Benson, J. (2016, January 18). Health Ranger warns: 'Chemicals from China sold in over-hyped pills is NOT nutrition! Retrieved from NaturalNews: https://www.naturalnews.com/052670_supplement_industry_adulterated_products_ingredients_from_China.html

Compounding Pharmacy . (2017, August 23). Compounding Treatment For Stress. Retrieved from The Compounding Pharmacy of Beverly Hills: https://www.compoundingexpert.com/compounding-treatment-for-stress/

Glazier, M. (2012). Is Exercise Causing Damage to Your Body? Retrieved from NutraBio: http://www.nutrabio.com/News/news_free_radicals.htm

James, K. (2018, February 18). 15 Antioxidant Rich Foods to Fight Free Radicals Damage. Retrieved from Natural Food Series: https://www.naturalfoodseries.com/15-antioxidant-foods-fight-free-radicals/

Lien Ai Pham-Huy, H. H.-H. (2008). Free Radicals, Antioxidants in Disease and Health. Internationasl Journal of Biomedical Science, 4(2), 89-96. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614697/

Malesky, M. (2017, May 31). Minimum Oxygen Concentration for Human Breathing. Sciencing. Retrieved from https://sciencing.com/minimum-oxygen-concentration-human-breathing-15546.html

Riley, K. (2017, April). Extreme Exercise, Anger, and Your Heart. Retrieved from ExperienceL!fe: https://experiencelife.com/article/extreme-exercise-anger-and-your-heart/

Snyder, K. (2012, June 14). The Scary Risks of Taking too Many Vitamins and Supplements. Retrieved from Kimberly Snyder: https://kimberlysnyder.com/blog/2012/06/14/the-scary-risks-of-taking-too-many-vitamins-and-supplements/

Stern, V. (2008, October 1). The Oxygen Dilemma: Can Too Much O2 Kill? Scientific American. Retrieved from Scientific American: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-oxygen-dilemma/

Szalay, J. (2016, May 27). What Are Free Radicals? Retrieved from Live Science: https://www.livescience.com/54901-free-radicals.html

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2011, June 17). Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from National Institutes of Health (NIH) : https://ods.od.nih.gov/HealthInformation/DS_WhatYouNeedToKnow.aspx

University of Michigan. (2015, October 20). Want pizza, chocolate, French fries? Highly processed foods linked to addictive eating. Retrieved from ScienceDaily: www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150220110126.htm

Wong, S. (2009, November 3). Scientists expose vitamin C's pro-oxidant alter ego. The Gaurdian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/science/blog/2009/nov/03/vitamin-c-pro-oxidant-blood-pressure

​Freshen your home. Use dried herbs to create scent packets that will add a nice aroma to closets, drawers or cabinets. Simply fill a small cloth bag halfway with your favorite dried herb. Tie the packet closed tightly with a ribbon or string. Last, crush the dried herbs slightly before placing the herb packet . 

Directions: Start by sanitizing a glass bottle or jar  and allow to air-dry completely. Just one drop of water can cause your oil to go rancid quickly.

There are two methods that can be used to infuse the oil: cool or hot. 

Cool Method:  fill sterilized bottles ¼ of the way with dried organic herbs or spices and then top with oil.  Allow the oil to infuse for 2-4 weeks, or until the desired flavor has developed.  Oil infused utilizing the hot method can be used right away. 

Hot Method: heat the oil to 180 degrees, turn off the heat, and add spices or herbs while the oil is still hot.  Once cool, the herbs can either be strained out or left in the oil for a stronger flavor.  When finished, pour the infused oil into sterilized bottles or jars. 

Dried herbs and spices can be added before sealing to make the bottle more attractive and to further enhance the flavor.  Label with the ingredients and date. Store infused oils in the refrigerator once ready and be sure to use within 1-3 months.

Ice infusion. Place mint, lemon balm, sage, rosemary or other favorite herb into your ice try, fill with water and place it in the freezer, allowing it to freeze. These infused ice cubes will make any drink praise worthy. 

In a bath. Taking a hot bath can be one of the healthiest things we do with our day. Throw in some healing herbs and you're well on your way to combating everything from sore muscles to stress and anxiety right from the tub. Add herbs like lavender, chamomile and dandelion directly into the bathwater to promote healthy, happy skin, or boil these herbs in water first and then add the herbal water into the tub as it fills up.

• Chamomile relieves pain and provides relief from insect bites.
• Ginger enhances blood flow to all parts of your body.
• Hops relieve insomnia and will leave you sleepy.
• Jasmine enhances your mood and refreshes your skin.
• Lavender calms your nerves and rejuvenates your skin.
• Lime Leaf and Flower aid in relaxation and could stifle a cold before it takes hold.
• Meadowsweet relieves sore muscles and improves your mood.
• Mint stimulates and heals your skin.
• Rosemary promotes relaxation.
• Sage prevents stiff, sore muscles after a workout.
• Stinging nettle promotes circulation and heals aching joints.

Herb-Infused Hair Rinse.  Did you know that rosemary is recommended for all hair types, and lavender is great for oily hair? Now you can put those herbs to some good use right on your scalp. Apple cider vinegar can also give your hair a major boost. Vinegar smooths the hair cuticle creating lots of shine and balances the pH of your scalp and hair. 
​
​Ingredients

• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup dried chamomile or rosemary (Note: Chamomile may lighten your hair)
• 1/4 cup dried lavender
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions
Bring water to a boil and remove from heat. Add herbs and let them steep for at least 30 minutes.  Strain the herbs and pour into a bottle with a lid. Add the apple cider vinegar and shake to combine. To use, pour onto your hair (a squirt bottle makes this much easier) and massage into hair. Let it sit for a a couple of minutes and finish with a quick rinse. Don't worry, you won't smell like vinegar.  The vinegar smell goes away as your hair dries.

​Burning herbs can eliminate bacteria and provide a quick way to administer herbal medicines. This practice has been around for a thousand years and has recently seen a comeback due to scientific evidence.  Hospitals in Eastern Europe use smoldering Bearberry to rid hospital rooms of harmful bacteria, which has reduced the infection rate among their patience’s. The idea is not to burn the herbs but let them smolder to give off the smoke which contains the medicinal benefits. It only takes a little bit of smoke not a lot.  Research shows that burning herbs for just 60 minutes cleans the air for 24 hours and reduces bacteria for up to 30 days.
There are three ways to do this in your own home. Use loose herbs, smudge sticks and herbal incense. I recommend herbal incense or smudge sticks.  Loose herbs do not stay smoldering and require constant attention.
Here is one of our recipes for an herbal incense cone, that we use for getting rid of harmful germs that cause us to get sick during the cold and flu season.
 

• ¾ teaspoon Makko powder
• 1 teaspoon bearberry powder
• 1 teaspoon silver sage powder
• ¼ teaspoon sandalwood

 

1. Combine all powders in a small mixing bowl. 
2. Add small amounts of water to the mix until the powders can be formed into a paste. I do this using an eye dropper so that I can add water very slowly to avoid adding too much.
3. Mix until it becomes the consistency of dough
4. Using a teaspoon of mixture, shape into cones and place on parchment paper, let dry 2-3 days.
5. Once they are completely dried they can be stored in an air-tight container until ready to use.
6. To use, place cone on a fire safe surface and light with a match or lighter. Blow flame out so only a smoldering ember is left.

      There are many combinations of herbs that can be used in incense form that will help with common health concerns, like; anxiety, stress, high blood pressure and others.

Smudging (burning herbs and plant resins for medicinal and spiritual use) has been used since ancient times, by cultures all over the world for healing and to clear the buildup of emotional or spiritual negativity. Smudging is often viewed as some sort of magical practice, however recent studies at the National Botanical Research Institute have shown that there is scientific evidence that medicinal smoke is a powerful antiseptic that can purify the air of 94% of harmful bacteria for up to 24 hours and drastically decreased pathogenic bacteria for more than 30 days. These bacteria include those responsible for urinary tract infections, septic arthritis, sepsis and staph infections.
            The authors of a 2006 study called “Medicinal Smokes” have concluded that smudging indeed has the ability to purify the air and that this practice is very efficient in delivering the medicinal substances to the brain promptly. When they are released through smoke, these substances are also absorbed by our organism faster and more effectively than through other methods. This analysis can be found in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Although smudging and similar practices have been classed as “new age” or dismissed as fantasy or spiritual nonsense by those attempting to discredit them, research is scientifically proving that there are great benefits to the rituals that the Native Americans (along with many other indigenous groups) have inherently known of and practiced with faith throughout time.
 
Here are some herbs used in smudging.

them to be passed out of the body. Artemisinin, also known as qinghao su by the Chinese is used against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It was discovered by Tu Youyou, a Chinese scientist, who was awarded half of the 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine for her discovery. Treatments containing an artemisinin derivative are now standard treatment worldwide for P. falciparum malaria.

​Bay leaf (Laurus nobilis) has been used for a long time to prevent common colds and flu. The bay leaf contains a compound called linalool. A study by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists found that linalool decreases anxiety and enhances social interaction. Bay leaves contain mycrene and eugenol. Both of these compounds possess great anti-inflammatory properties and are, in fact, used heavily in stress reduction therapy. When you burn a bay leaf, these compounds become airborne. Once inhaled, they will reduce any respiratory inflammation. This can work wonders if you suffer from allergies or have a bad cold.

Cedar smudge has a very powerful cleansing ability. It contains over 20 different constituents. The major constituents in cedar smoke are acetic acid, limonene, elemol, α-cadinol, hexadecanoic acid, and kaur-16-ene. The cedar tree has been revered for its spiritual significance for thousands of years. Its wood was used for the doors of sacred temples and burned in cleansing ceremonies for purification. Cedar has a long history of use in indigenous sweat lodge ceremonies and the tree was thought to house important gods and to be an entrance to higher spiritual realms.
 
Sweetgrass contains coumarins which are antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antioxidant. It is especially among the native tribes of North American that there are traditions of using this herb not only for religious ceremonies but also to a certain extent for medicinal purposes. The smoke of burning sweet grass was inhaled to treat colds and also used to keep insects at bay.
 
Rosemary activates and refreshes the body and soul and dispels negative forms of energy with its sharp aromatic vapor. It also boosts one’s self-confidence. Rosemary smoke has antioxidant, anti-infection properties. Rosemary constituents include About 1% volatile oil, camphor, camphene and cineole, diosmin, apigenin, diosmetin, genkwanin, 6-methoxygenkwanin, hispidulin, sinensetin, luteolin and derivatives, rosmarinic acid, carnosilic acid, carnosol, rosmariquinone; ursolic acid, oleanic acids, and carnosic acid (rosmaricine). 

Mullien smoke has been considered as an effective remedy for a wounded soul. Its fragrance has a very relaxing effect on the nervous system. It has also been used extensively for lung issues including bronchitis. Mullein constituents include hesperidin, verbascoside and aucubin. Verbascoside has an antimicrobial activity notably against Staphylococcus aureus. It can also have anti-inflammatory properties and has 

​Its 2018 and the Cold and Flu Season is the worst I can remember.  It seems that the vaccines are only partially helpful.  The good news is there are other ways, Natural Ways, to boost our immune systems and help prevent and or shorten the illness.  While there are many herbs that can help, my favorite is Elderberry Syrup. The flowers and berries of the Elderberry plant are nutritious, rich in flavonoids, and high in vitamin C, vitamin A, bioflavonoids, betacarotene, iron, and potassium. Elderberries are known to be effective against eight strains of influenza. This suggests that elderberries are superior to vaccines in preventing flu, because flu vaccines are only effective against known strains of flu, whereas the virus is continually mutating to new strains.” Elderberry has demonstrated its ability to prevent flu and colds when taken before infection. Taken after infection, it prevents spread of the virus through the respiratory tract. In a clinical trial, 20% of study subjects reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% by 48 hours, and 90% claimed complete cure in three days. In contrast, subjects receiving the placebo required 6 days to recover.”
To read about other herbs that can help go to http://www.bearberryessentials.com/holistic-blog/archives/09-2016

Instructions
In an Insta pot combine all dry ingredients and 4 cups of distilled water, close top and on Manuel cook for 12 minutes then Quick Release and change to saute' mode for 10 minutes (Water should be reduced by 1/2)(In  slow cooker cook until dried Herbs have softened then reduce water by 1/2.)  smash, strain, and when cooled add  about 1 cup of raw honey. ​

Bearberry Essentials has put together a Elderberry Syrup Kit that has all the ingredients except water and honey.  Click the link below to order the kit. 

Bearberry Essentials also has an Immune Boost Tincture.  

​Essential oils have powerful therapeutic properties, and despite the critics, there are lots of scientific studies to back it up.

They are concentrated solutions of natural occurring chemicals.  As such, they are only safe when used properly. The wide range of benefits include health, beauty, cleaning, insect control, and more.  There is a reason they are popular.
​
However, they do come with risks.  Essential oils are highly concentrated. Just a single drop has the quality of many cups of herbal tea from the same plant.

For example, did you know that it takes...
•256 pounds of peppermint leaf to make one pound of peppermint essential oil
•150 pounds or more of lavender flowers to make one pound of lavender essential oil
•Thousands of pounds of roses to make 1 pound of rose essential oil
 
There are many oils that come with warnings.  Below are a few.

​Increasing Photosensitivity
Certain oils can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which can set you up for a sunburn, even with just minor exposure. Never apply any of these essential oils to your skin exposure to UV rays. They do not promote tanning. Instead they are likely to cause pain, blistering, swelling, and irreparable damage to your skin. If you have used any of those oils on your skin, wait a minimum of four hours after applying before being exposed to the sun. Here is a list of these oils:
​
                •Lemon essential oil
                •Lime essential oil
                •Grapefruit essential oil
                •Orange essential oil
                •Bergamot essential oil

​2. Pregnant or Nursing
Everyone knows that while pregnant or nursing you should be careful about what you eat and do.  Essential oils can affect hormones, gut bacteria, and other aspects of health and extreme care should be used when taking them while pregnant or nursing. There is evidence that essential oils can cross the placenta and get to the baby. The effects of essential oils can be compounded in uterus. I’m not saying they should not be used during pregnancy, but that extreme care should be taken and research done first. I personally do not recommend taking essential oils internally during pregnancy (or even while nursing). During pregnancy and nursing, I recommend using essential oils for aromatherapy and 2X diluted use of approved essential oils for topical application.

Many oils are considered safe during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. A good rule is to always check with a professional and use caution with any herbs used during pregnancy.

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), recommends that pregnant women avoid the following essential oils:
​

• Wintergreen essential oil
• Sage essential oil
• Mugwort essential oil
• Tarragon essential oil
• Birch essential oil
• Aniseed essential oil
• Camphor essential oil
• Hyssop essential oil
• Parsley essential oil (seed or leaf)
• Pennyroyal essential oil
• Tansy essential oil
• Thuja essential oil
• Wormwood essential oil

 
If you’re nursing, you may want to avoid peppermint essential oil as it can decrease milk supply. On the other hand, if you’re in the process of weaning, it can be helpful when used topically on the breasts.

3. Potential Medication Interactions
If you take a prescription drug, it’s important to find out if the essential oil you plan to use may interfere. If you’re uncertain about whether to use the oil with a medication you’re taking, don’t use it. Individuals with liver disease, renal disease, a compromised immune system, or those taking multiple medications, should consult with a qualified, professional before using essential oils. There are currently no national standards that define who is a qualified professional when it comes to essential oils and herbs. This means you need to ask questions. That includes looking into where the practitioner was trained, how many hours of class time they have, do they have a degree and was their school an accredited institution. Here are some common herbs/essential oils and the medications they interfere with.

• Wintergreen                    Warfarin; intensifies blood thinning

 

• Lemon Balm                   all; affects the livers ability to metabolize drugs.   

 

• Cinnamon, clove            Aspirn, Heparin, Warfarin; Inhibits platelet adhesion                                                                               and intensifies blood thinning
• Lavender                        morphine, oxycodone, lorazepam, diazepam, and alprazolam.  Due to the                                             relaxing qualities of lavender, this herb could potentially enhance the effects                                        of central nervous system depressants, including narcotics and anti-anxiety                                          agents.

There are many more so do your homework

4. Children or babies
 Never, Never Never treat children as an adult.  This includes treatment with essential oil, herbs, and tinctures.  Children are smaller, have much thinner, more delicate skin than adults and are in the process of still growing. They tend to be more sensitive to essential oils. Most experts’ recommend that the oils should never be given internally to a child and should be diluted at least two times more than an adult.  In addition, you should use Clark’s Rule when administering herbs and tinctures to a child. 

​6. Internal Use of Essential Oils
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy does not support the indiscriminate internal use of essential oils. Read more about their official stand at NAHA. The only time you should use essential oils internally is under the advice of a qualified professional. Remember, the effects of some oils can range from being highly irritating to fatal when swallowed.
​
7.  More is not Better!
The biggest mistake one can make with essential oils and other herbal medicines is using too much and or using it too often. Treat essential oils like you would a medication and be sure to consult an expert. In many cases, the actions on the body of essential oils and herbal medicines can dramatically change depending upon the dosage taken.  Just because you can’t smell it anymore does not mean it’s not still in your system. 
 
8. Essential Oil Quality
To really benefit from essential oils, it is imperative to use oils that are 100% pure, free from adulterants, additives, and dilutions. To read more about the term "Therapeutic Quality" see my Blog post titled The Truth about Therapeutic Grades of Essential Oils.

​     It doesn’t absorb the toxins. Instead it works through the chemical process of adsorption.  Adsorption is the chemical reaction where elements bind to a surface. The porous surface of activated charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positive charged toxins and gas to bond with it. The nooks and crannies in activated charcoal are created through a heating process. This process is also why it has side effects (5).

     ​Whenever you take activated charcoal, it’s imperative to drink 12-16 glasses of water per day. Activated charcoal can cause dehydration if adequate amounts of water aren’t consumed in tandem. In addition, this helps to flush out the toxins quickly and prevents constipation experienced by some individuals (5).

     Using activated charcoal it’s generally deemed safe for most individuals. However, it’s always good to be aware of any medical conditions such as intestinal bleeding or blockages, holes in the intestines, chronic dehydration, slow digestion, or a recent abdominal surgery, as they may affect how activated charcoal reacts in your body (2).

                                             Dangers of using Activated Charcoal
     Activated charcoal interferes with the absorption of nutrients, supplements and prescription medications including birth control. Charcoal can also cause; inflammation of the digestive tract, constipation and even intestinal blockages.  Research recently published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine detailed a case of charcoal causing a lung infection. If the charcoal goes down the wrong way and gets into your respiratory system, it’s like giving yourself coal miner’s lung (4).

​     Other side effects include diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, black tongue, black mouth, and stained teeth (1).

References:

1. https://www.superfoodly.com/activated-charcoal-uses-side-effects/
2. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/activated-charcoal-uses-risks#1
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/charcoal-activated-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20070087
4. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/drinking-charcoal
5. ​https://draxe.com/activated-charcoal-uses/