• More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year
• Nearly 55% of all US citizens test positive for one or more allergens

What is to blame?  There are many sources of allergens.

• Pollen, which comes from many different plants, is a chronic irritant to many people and contributes to seasonal allergies and hay fever.
• Mold and mildew from both inside and outside your home can cause allergic reactions in many people.
• 52% of households have at least 6 detectable allergens!
• Animal dander, dust mites, mold, scented candles, cleaning products, cigarette smoke

And don’t forget the other common sources such as food you are eating!

• Milk and other dairy products create mucous throughout the body.
• Foods not appropriate for your blood type can lead to reactions.  Do  you know what your blood type is?  Come see us if you don’t know.
• Processed foods & sugars
• Wheat, gluten, MSG, alcohol, medications

What are some other contributors to allergies?

• Stress
  • Depletes vitamins
  • Weakens your immune system
• Antibiotics
  • Leads to resistant bacterial infections
  • Kills good bacteria
    • 70% of immune system is stimulated by good bacteria so be sure to take probiotics daily

• Poor digestive function, not breaking down foods properly, and poor assimilation.
  • Not enough enzymes

What are some of the allergy symptoms?  The symptoms are basically a natural immune response of your body.  It’s just that your body is reacting to something it should not be and this becomes a chronic cycle.

• Cleansing mechanisms – watery and itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, even a mild fever, diarrhea and bloating can be a response from food allergens.
• Skin irritations, rash, hives, swelling, can also be due to allergies.

What can you do for allergies?  We’re assuming that your are reading this blog post because you are interested in natural remedies.  We are also assuming that you realize that the traditional allergy drugs bought over the counter or by prescription have an immediate effect, but have many dangerous side effects.  Have we assumed correctly?  Good because here is what you can do…

Of course you must avoid foods that you know cause a reaction in you.  After you have spent some time enhancing your health, you may possible go back to the food but why bother unless it’s a healthy food!  For example, if you give up sugar, why go back to eating it.

Eat right.  Not only avoiding those allergy foods but be sure to primarily eat healthy food.  Eating for your blood type is an excellent and simple guide to eating healthy and avoiding potential allergy causing foods.

Drink pure water.  We prefer steam distilled.  We recommend this to all of our clients and drink distilled water every day.  How much?  Take your body weight in pounds, divide this in half, this is the number of ounces of water to drink each day.  For example, if you weigh 140 lbs.  You should drink 70 ounces of water per day.  Not all at once!  Spread it out throughout the day.  If you weigh 200 lbs. or more, stick with 80 to 100 ounces of distilled water per day.

Exercise helps improve your health, immunity, and reduces stress.  Be sure you make time for yourself each day to exercise and de-stress yourself.

Herbs and nutritional supplements can be a vital force in overcoming allergies of all types (food-borne, airborne, and even contact).

Here are some popular supplements that support the respiratory system, the immune system, and contain natural anti-histamine ingredients and herbs such as stinging nettles.

Bulk herbs available in our store, The Herb Peddler:

• Bee Pollen
• Cat’s Claw
• Elder Flowers
• Hyssop
• Kudzu Root
• Mullein
• Stinging Nettle
• Yerba Santa

Herbal Supplements:

ALJ® (100 caps) 

•Helps soothe irritated tissues.
•Encourages the entire respiratory tract to gently cleanse itself.
•Assists the body in neutralizing allergens by nutritional means.

ALJ® [Respiratory] is the key product for the respiratory system. Airborne particles are everywhere. When particles enter the respiratory system via the nose or the mouth, the body turns on its cleansing mechanisms, and the immune system is put on active duty. Herbal nourishment supports a healthy respiratory system that can be challenged by inhaled irritants.

You may take ALJ every hour while symptoms linger.  Take along with Histablock prior to going outdoors if you are prone to seasonal allergies and/or hay fever.

HistaBlock® (90 caps)

HistaBlock® [Respiratory] supports the body in times of respiratory stress. A powerful combination of  stinging nettle, quercetin, bromelain and immature orange peel (which contains synephrine). HistaBlock provides nutritional support for the respiratory system.

Seasonal Defense (90 caps) 

Seasonal changes can be quite stressful to the body. That’s why it is important to support your immune system. Seasonal Defense combines andrographis with other immune-supporting herbs, including Fructus aurantia (six percent synephrine extract), thyme, oregano and eleuthero root for complete immune support.

Please see our Nature’s Sunshine site for a more complete and descriptive listing of these and other products to support and help you overcome allergies!  VISIT HERE

Don’t forget, we mentioned that you should have good digestive function and healthy good bacteria to help you avoid and overcome allergies.  By taking digestive enzymes and probiotics every day you can help yourself digest food better and improve elimination of waste.

For a detailed description and products list please see our product page on Digestive Health products.

We hope this information at least gets you started on your way to overcoming allergies.  YES, it is possible to overcome your allergies.  I did!!!

In good health,
Charlotte Test, ND, MH

The Herb Peddler
Drs. Charlotte and Timothy Test, Naturopaths, owners

Myrrh is in the same family as the balm of Gilead, referenced in the Bible.  It is familiar to most as one of the gifts of the Magi to the newborn Christ.  Since ancient times Myrrh has been prized for the many medicinal, as well as sacred, uses it has.  It is commonly used in its original resin form or as an essential oil.  Myrrh is obtained as the dried oleo gum resin of a variety of Commiphora species of trees.  The resin is secreted by the tree when the bark has been cut or injured into the sapwood.  In resin form or as a pure essential oil, Myrrh has been used internally and externally, alone or synergistically blended with other ingredients.

Other names:
Commiphora myrrha, Balasmodendron myrrha, Hirabol myrrh, Heerabol Myrrh, Mu-Yao.

History:

Myrrh has a rich, smoky, and earthy aroma.  It is a favorite ingredient of natural medicines among all cultures going back to its early discovery in the far reaches of time.  A native to Ethiopia and Somalia, Myrrh has been used historically as long ago as 3000 BCE by the Egyptians for embalming.  Into the 15^th century, Myrrh has been burned as incense during cremations and funerals to cover up the foul odors of the dead.  Myrrh was also used to anoint kings and to scent fabrics for use by those on a spiritual journey to holy places.  Myrrh is reported to be one of the key ingredients in the mythical Egyptian perfume Kyphi.  Like Frankincense, the ancient Romans considered Myrrh to be as valuable as gold, often using it as security for monetary debts.  Without a doubt Myrrh is one of the most famous natural ingredients in the world used by many cultures and religions for medicinal and spiritual uses.

Historical Uses:

Traditionally Myrrh has been used for the treatment of spasms and infections.  Its most common use medicinally is for oral hygiene as a mouthwash for treating the gums.  Today it is found in many natural brands of toothpaste and mouthwashes.  It is known for its soothing effect on the upper respiratory system relieving coughs and the symptoms of colds.  It is also known to be helpful in failure of menstruation and in chronic fatigue.  In addition to problems with the teeth and gums, Myrrh has been used for the digestive system and skin.  In Ayurvedic medicine, Myrrh is a desirable addition to the rasayanas for rejuvenation and disease prevention.  Myrrh Gum is commonly found to be a primary ingredient in many traditional Middle Eastern, Chinese, and Tibetan formulas, in addition to the numerous natural oral health remedies and salves for the skin.

Common Applications:

Myrrh gum has a stickier consistency than Frankincense tears.  Just as with Frankincense, Myrrh can be burned in a dish made for burning incense.  Soap-stone or a shell lined with a layer of sand provides a nice dish to burn Myrrh.  Myrrh essential oil can be diffused in an open diffuser as it is too thick and sticky for a nebulizer, unless it is mixed with other oils.  In aromatherapy, Myrrh, which is associated with inspiration, strength, and endurance, helps the individual move forward in their life both spiritually and emotionally.  It is considered to be centering and calming, as it instills mental tranquility.  Myrrh is used to impart peace as it helps to ease feelings of sorrow and grief.  In use during meditation Myrrh helps one to connect to their inner self and to the realization of dreams.  To use as a disinfecting external poultice for skin eruptions, chicken pox, bedsores, and minor cuts, a known herbal formula combines Myrrh with comfrey leaf, slippery elm, and lobelia.

Charlotte Test, ND, MH

The Herb Peddler – Gettysburg, PA

This works great when feeling nauseous.

Ingredients:

• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Peppermint

Combine 1 ounce of each herb.

To Brew Tea:

1. Combine 1 teaspoon of mixture with 1 cup boiling water.
2. Steep 5 minutes.
3. Strain.
4. You may add honey and/or lemon to taste if desired.

To order these herbs in loose form for making teas visit our websitehttp://www.peaceeagleherbs.com/singleherborderform.html.

Introduction to Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular as a valuable way to promote both physical and emotional well-being by using essential oils extracted from plants.  The benefits have been known for ages, however, it was not given a name until the 1920′s when the term aromatherapy was coined in France.

Essential Oils

An Essential Oil is defined as a product obtained from natural raw material, either by distillation with water and steam, or from the epicarp (outer layer) of citrus fruits by mechanical processing, or by dry distillation.  Essential oils are frequently referred to as the “life force” of plants. Unlike fatty oils, these “essential” oils are volatile, highly concentrated, substances extracted from flowers, leaves, stems, roots, seeds, bark, resin or fruit rinds. The amount of essential oils found in these plants can be anywhere from 0.01 percent to 10 percent of the total. That’s why literally tons of plant material are required for just a few hundred pounds of oil.

Essential oils have a specific affinity for the nerve tissues of the body. The olfactory membranes located within the sinus cavity is the most immediate point of nerve contact with essential oils.  The nerve membranes contained in these membranes, are responsible for our sense of smell.  These nerves connect directly to the olfactory bulb which is a part of our brain that has direct connections to many other areas of the mind.

One of these connections is to the hypothalamus, the stalk of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, which in turn controls the rest of the glandular system.  Therefore aromatherapy is able to have a powerful affect on our endocrine system.

The sense of smell is also intimately connected to that part of the brain called the limbic system which is known as the area of memory.  The limbic system involves responses such as fight or flight, pain and pleasure, and perceptions of bad and good.  Because of this the sense of smell also has a powerful and immediate affect on both memory and emotion.

Because only natural plants are able to convey the whole complex set of signs and complete information, the essential oils used for Aromatherapy must be truly natural and genuine.

To protect these benefits of genuine essential oils, please store them in a dark-colored glass bottle (never plastic) that is protected from heat or sunlight.

Preparation for Use

Suggested Dilutions for Essential Oil Blends

Base/Carrier Oils

Grapeseed is a light, non-greasy fruit oil, free of scent; it is easily absorbed, inexpensive and available in most health shops and supermarkets.

Sweet almond is a nut oil, light with a mild fragrance.

Coconut, native to Polynesia and Malaysia the coconut palm produces a light nut oil with a mild fragrance, it solidifies when cooled but readily melts in a hot hand.

Applications of Essential Oils

“Neat”

The use of essential oils directly on the skin without diluting them first with a carrier oil. Essential oils that can be applied to the skin neat include tea tree and lavender.

Always carry out an allergy test by placing one drop of oil in a teaspoon of water and rub into the arm near the elbow. Wait for two hours. If irritation occurs, find an alternative oil. The same test can be carried out with any base oil although there is no need to dilute first.

Inhalation

Essential oil blends can be inhaled gently yet directly from the bottle for a quick emotional lift.

For a deeper and more powerful inhalation, place 6-8 drops of your chosen essential oil or oil blend in a bowl of almost boiling water. Place a towel over your head and inhale for 5 minutes.

Bath

Draw your bath, then add 10 drops of your essential oil or blend to the bath. Agitate the water in a figure eight motion. Soak for 15 minutes. For a lightly bubbly, cleansing bath, add 1 teaspoon of Sunshine Concentrate. For relaxation, detoxification, or the folk remedy for sore joints, you can mix the oils with 1/2 to 1 cup of Epsom salts or sea salt and add to your bath water. To spread the oils evenly in the bath water, use it lecithin. Or try a sitz bath with just enough water to cover your lower body, and add 5 drops of essential oil.

Many pregnant women experience lower back pain due to the extra weight and changing posture. A simple way to enjoy aromatherapy is an aromatic bath, which can be enjoyed from 12 weeks onwards. This can be one of an expectant mother’s greatest luxuries.

In a relaxing bathroom setting enhanced by candles and music, run a tepid bath. Before entering, add two drops of neroli and two drops of mandarin essential oil, dispersing them into the bath water by hand. Once in the bath, close your eyes and concentrate on deep, rhythmic breathing, positive affirmations and relaxation. One drop of lavender can also be added as an alternative.

Diffusion

The best way to properly diffuse therapeutic grade oils is to use a cold-air nebulizing diffuser. I offer  quiet, high quality nebulizing diffusers of various sizes (ask for pricing).  This type of diffuser disperses a fine mist of essential oils sufficient to fill a room in a few minutes, without rendering the oils less therapeutically beneficial, by heating them.  Diffusing therapeutic grade oils, you will receive the therapeutic effects of the oils, plus they can (1) reduce bacteria, fungus, and mold in the room; (2) help relax, relieve tension, and clear the mind; (3) help in weight management; and (4) improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity.

Place 10 to 25 undiluted drops of your chosen essential oil or blend into the diffuser.  When you cold-air diffuse, you should start out by diffusing the oils for only 10-30 minutes a day. As you become used to the oils and their effects, you can increase the time.

Massage

Mix approximately 21-25 drops of essential oil into 2 ounces (30ml) of base oil.  Apply externally, massaging towards the heart.

Humidifier

Put 10 drops of essential oil or oil blend into the water of the unit.

Spritz Spray

Add 10 to 15 drops of the essential oil or blend to 8 ounces of distilled water. Shake well before use.

Gargle or Mouthwash

Add 3 drops of an essential oil to a teaspoon of vodka or water and gargle.

Compresses

Add 4 – 6 drops of an essential oil to 1 cup of hot water. Using a clean muslin cloth, soak in the infused water and apply to affected area four times daily. A good method for healing wounds and reducing inflammation.

Oil Burner

Using a ceramic oil burner, use 4-8 drops of essential oil in water and light the tea light. Burn for 15 minutes at a time.

Essential oils have many, many uses.  For some ideas of what to use them for please see our web page on essential oil use for the skin.

The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, Valerie Ann Worwood, ISBN 0-931432-82-0

The Scents of Health, A User Friendly Guide to Aromatherapy, L. Carl Robinson, ISBN 1-890855-08-1

www.TheHerbPeddler.com

Eleuthero, which was once known as Siberian Ginseng, is a traditional Chinese remedy that is similar to Panax Ginseng.  It is known as an adaptogen herb which restores vitality and energy balance, increases stamina, support memory function, and acts as a tonic to improve overall health. Research has also revealed that active compounds in Eleuthero work to ease PMS and menopausal symptoms, restore sexual energy, and nourish adrenal gland function. These actions are also beneficial to those under stress. Some prefer Eleuthero over Panax Ginseng because it is not as strong.

Common Uses:
Support energy balance; help body adapt to physical & mental stress; boost stamina & vitality; restore sexual energy; enhance athletic performance; improve mental performance; support hormone balance; occasional sleeplessness; immune system support.

Peace and Good Health!
Charlotte Test, ND, MH
www.TheHerbPeddler.com

[The contents of this article are meant to provide education, not to provide medical diagnosis or treatment of medical diseases. Having control of your own health and well-being includes knowing when to seek medical help. It's recommended that you consult with a competent health practitioner with professional background in natural healing before attempting to treat yourself. Please consult with your licensed medical professional for medical concerns. Use common sense to help keep you safe and healthy.]

Corn Silk

aka se-lu si-li-gi, Indian Corn, Maize, Maize Silk, Mother’s Hair, Yu Mi Shu, Yu Shu-Shu, Zea.

Corn Silk, is the silky-looking fiber that surrounds the corncob.  As a natural remedy, corn silk is commonly and safely used for health of the urinary system and its functions.  Traditionally known for its soothing effects on the kidney, bladder and urinary tract, this herb has other amazing benefits as well.  Corn Silk helps maintain the body’s natural water balance.  As a result it also promotes health of the prostate for men by supporting normal urinary flow.  This water balance benefit is also helpful in the case of high blood pressure.  Corn silk’s actions maintain sodium while excreting potassium.  This is especially helpful for those with chronic fatigue and adrenal burnout or insufficiency.  Corn silk is also very helpful for inflammation that is caused by bacterial infection.  This natural remedy also works in neutralizing fungi and yeast that cause infections.

Common use:

Promotes healthy urinary function; supports normal urinary flow; promotes fluid balance; kidney & bladder health; calming effect on bladder; promotes prostate health; supports healthy blood pressure; chronic fatigue; adrenal burnout.

Best wishes for your good health!

Charlotte Test

www.TheHerbPeddler.com

Stinging Nettles

The nutrient-rich Stinging Nettle plant has been used as both food and medicine for centuries. The leaf is primarily used for allergy reactions and as a diuretic to relieve temporary water weight gain and also to promote urinary tract health.

Nettle is an incredible source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, trace minerals, flavonoids and a many other nutrients. It is rich in nutrients such as chlorophyll, beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium, calcium, plant-based iron, and more! It’s no wonder Nettle’s list of therapeutic benefits fills the pages of herbal guides and that the herb is included in many formulas. In addition to alleviating any type of allergy, this mineral-rich tonic is hailed as a remarkable blood cleanser and builder, as well as a rejuvenating spring tonic. Nettle Leaf also supports healthy kidney function in addition to joint health for comfort and flexibility.

Common Uses:

Allergies (teary eyes, runny nose); hay fever; increase flow of urine; urinary tract health; supports kidney/bladder health; nutrient-rich tonic; blood builder; blood purifier.

More on Nettles:

What is Stinging Nettles? Many people that traipse around nature already know what Nettles are. Their first experience was probably touching the plant. The sting of Nettles is not to be forgotten feeling very similar to a bee sting. The stem of this plant is covered with tiny “hairs” that release a burning fluid made of histamine and formic acid. Touching this results in inflammation and pain. Stinging Nettle is one of the most nutrient-rich plants providing us with calcium, magnesium, iron, silicon, sulfur, sodium, copper, manganese, chromium, zinc and vitamins A, C, D, E, F, and P, antioxidants to help fight cancer and is also rich in chlorophyll. You can prepare young Nettle tops as you would spinach and also substitute in recipes that call for spinach. A Nettles rinse can be used in the hair to restore its color. Many people around the world believe the sting of Nettles will relieve arthritis. You may have heard of using Bee stings for this. I’d rather be stung by Nettles! The list continues of Nettles benefits.

But where do Stinging Nettles shine? As a remedy for hay fever! This one plant has provided much needed relief for many people that suffer from allergies. Hay Fever is such a common allergy problem this time of year. How convenient to find Stinging Nettles along the roadside! By the way, it’s good to know you don’t need to expose Nettles to the naked skin to receive the benefits. They lose their sting once they’re dried or boiled and remain a very effective remedy.

NSP product that contains stinging nettles:  HistaBlock stock number 776-1

Excellent references used for the content of this newsletter:

Herbal Hour Blog – theherbpeddler.com/herbalhour

Nature’s Field – vol. 17 no. Stinging Nettle, article by Steven Horne, AHG

The Ultimate Healing System, by Donald Lepore, N.D.

Herbs of the Bible, 2000 Years of Plant Medicine, by James A. Duke, Ph.D.

Advanced Herbology Capstone, National Association of Certified Natural Health Professionals

[The contents of this article are meant to provide education, not to provide medical diagnosis or treatment of medical diseases. Having control of your own health and well-being includes knowing when to seek medical help. It's recommended that you consult with a competent health practitioner with professional background in natural healing before attempting to treat yourself. Please consult with your licensed medical professional for medical concerns. Use common sense to help keep you safe and healthy.]

http://www.theherbpeddler.com