Guest Post by Kimberly of Fertility Flower

Continuing on from yesterday's post on the safe use of essential oils in pregnancy, and the first two oils, Lavender and Bergamot.

Using Neroli, Chamomile and Geranium

Like bergamot, Neroli is part of the family of citrus essential oils. Also known as 'orange blossom,' it requires 1000 blossoms to arrive at 1 pound of oil making it one of the most precious essential oils available. Neroli essential oil is fantastic for skin regeneration making it an excellent choice for dealing with anything skin-related from acne to stretch marks. As an antispasmodic, neroli is also excellent for gastro-intestinal upset (by relaxing the smooth muscle of the intestine).

Feeling nauseous? Try aerosolized neroli: Add 5 drops of neroli essential oil to a spray bottle with distilled water and mist the air to help relieve nausea.

Chamomile-- There are two different species of plant that take the name 'Chamomile'. There's German Chamomile (the most common sort) and Roman, or English Chamomile. The essential oil, like the tea, is made of the daisy-like flowers of the small perennial herb. While they are different species, their effect is the same.

They soothe irritability and frayed nerves. Chamomile is another antispasmodic (like neroli) which means that it's appropriate for the treatment of a variety of digestive disorders as well as muscle spasms and skin irritations. Do an inhalation of Chamomile to relieve cough. One note on allergies - if you are sensitive to ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums or asters, you may also be allergic to Chamomile.

Did the summer mosquitoes really do a number on you tonight? Try chamomile: Add a few drops of Chamomile essential oil to a full bathtub to relieve the itch of mosquito bites.

Last but not least, Geranium is all about balance. Made from the leaves of the plant, the South African native works by stimulating the adrenal cortex which is the hormonal center. Thus, it is widely used in the treatment of both anxious tension and depression as it has the unusual quality of being both a sedative when you need to relax (as in tension) and a stimulant when you need a lift (as in depression). And, what it does for the psychology, it also does for the skin as well – tempering both the oily and dry.

Do you have breast tenderness? Try a compress with geranium essential oil: add a drop or two to some hot water, submerge a hand towel. Wring it out and lay the warm towel over your chest for 10 minutes.

A word on combining essential oils...

One can achieve wonderful effects by combining two or more essential oils. As long as the ratio of essential oil to carrier oil is maintained, there is no reason to avoid combining different oils for different effects. Some lovely combinations include:

Lavender – Chamomile: Blend 2 drops of each with 1 TBSP (15mL) of carrier oil and gently massage into the breast to alleviate tenderness. Add 4 drops of each to a bath to relieve sunburn.

Bergamot – Geranium: Add 4 drops of each to a bath and disperse well. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, inhaling the vapors to relieve anxiety. Lavender can also be added to this combination as long as the overall count of essential drops remains between 8 and 10 drops in a warm bath.

Geranium – Lavender: Add 2 drops of each to a large bowl of very warm water and soak aching feet for 10 minutes for a lift.

Chamomile – Neroli: Blend 4 drops of Chamomile and 2 drops of Neroli essential oils with 1 TBSP (15mL) of carrier oil and massage into your upper chest as a mild sedative when your mind is racing. You can swap out Chamomile for Lavender for a difference aroma profile with a similar effect.

One final word of caution...

While essential oils are natural, they are not inert. They are alternative forms of medicine with real effects on the body. Some have hormone-like compounds, like fennel seed, which should be avoided during pregnancy. Other essential oils have emmenagogic properties which among other things can be used to regulate menstrual periods. To take anything that promotes menstruation during pregnancy is obviously a very bad idea.

Still others contain compounds that can either be harmful to the developing baby or in some cases contribute to the start of contractions. The point is, exercise caution if you decide to try essential oils, particularly during pregnancy. The wisest course of action would be to consult your doctor or some other qualified practitioner before you do.

Sources:

AltMD, Amazing Healing, Aroma Web, Baby Centre UK, Birth.com.au, Essentials of Aromatherapy, National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, Natural Bloom, Northdays Image, Sun Spirit

Disclaimer: Neither Keeper of the Home nor its contributing authors are medical professionals, nor do we claim to be able to give medical advice. This information is merely to educate, inspire and motivate you to look into these issues more on your own, or to speak with your own medical practitioner for more information.

Kimberly is behind Fertility Flower, a website promoting natural fertility and healthy living. She has one daughter, Blanka, age 8 months and hopes to have more children someday.

Image by eggybird

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You might also enjoy:

1. A Year of Herbs: Pregnancy and the Use of Essential Oils
2. A Year of Herbs: Ginger
3. A Year of Herbs: Garlic
4. Healthy, Natural Pregnancy: Sciatica

Guest Post by Kimberly of Fertility Flower

**Stephanie's note: I had originally intended to put up a tomato canning tutorial tomorrow, but this post was long, and yet so full of good information, whether you are pregnant or simply want to learn more about the use of essential oils! So it will continue tomorrow, and you can expect the canning post on Monday... see you then!**

As botanical products, essential oils smell divine but I'm not sure how much weight people place on their power to effect real change. Absorbed into the blood stream via the skin (massage, creams, compresses) or through the lungs via steam inhalation, essential oils can promote stress reduction and cure ailments associated with pretty much all of our bodily systems.

What about using essential oils during pregnancy?

That's a contentious issue. There are classes of oils which contain compounds that have been known (via animal studies as a human trial of this nature would be wholly unethical) to induce contractions or cause hemorrhaging. In reality, one would probably need to absorb very large amounts of these compounds before the situation would devolve to that level. However, prepared in dilutions appropriate to the pregnant state (weak) and avoiding exposure prior to the 2nd trimester (just to be conservative), different oils or combinations of oils have the potential to be highly beneficial during pregnancy.

Essential oils are highly concentrated. One would dilute an essential oil for general use anyway. During pregnancy, the recommended amount of essential oil is halved creating even more dilute preparations. This translates to the following:

For massage, about 2-3 drops per 1TBSP (15mL) of carrier oil (such as almond or grape seed oil – although I've been known to use even olive oil);

For an aromatherapy bath, 6-10 drops mixed into a full tub; and

For a compress or for steam inhalation, 2-4 drops in 2-3 cups of steaming hot water (for a compress, submerge a cloth, wring it out and place it on the effected body part; for inhalation, position your head over the bowl and breathe).

So, which oils are we talking about?

I compared 10 different websites and constructed a matrix, noting what each website put forward as a safe essential oil for use by a pregnant woman. There was agreement among the websites with regard to the following oils (% of time that the oil was named as 'safe' for use during pregnancy).

• Lavender (90%)
• Bergamot (80%)
• Neroli (70%)
• Chamomile (60%)
• Geranium (60%)

Lemon, patchouli, sandalwood and ylang ylang were deemed safe during pregnancy by 50% of the websites that I saw, however, I'm not going to go more deeply into the characteristics of those oils here.

Image by audreyjm529

At the top of the list are Lavender and Bergamot.

Lavender is an ingredient that we are all likely to be well familiar. It's in our creams and bath soaps. Some people even cook with it.

Lavender essential oil, made by steam distilling the flowers themselves, is the mother of all essential oils and considered the safest. I've seen it referred to as ˝an angel of healing from the floral realm, and an expression of the earth’s compassion.˝ and indeed it is. Faced with anything from fatigue to depression to sleep disturbance...even a single drop rubbed between your palms and inhaled will restore you (try it!).

Can’t take an aspirin for a headache? Why not try a Lavender inhalation: Mix 4 drops of lavender essential oil with 2 cups of steaming hot water and inhale the vapors for a natural treatment for headache.

Image from Emporium Naturals

Bergamot is perhaps less well known. It's a small citrus tree with long oval leaves and white flowers that was first cultivated in Italy (bergamot is what gives Earl Grey tea its characteristic aroma). The oil is extracted by cold expression from the peel of the fruit.

This oil has great anti-depressant properties that almost constitute a 're-booting' of the nervous system. It has antiseptic properties that make it suitable in moderation for skin and scalp irritations (acne, eczema, etc) as well as bladder infection/cystitis which is more common during pregnancy than any other time (that’s one of the reasons they check urine at every visit).

Want to prevent a bladder infection or treat an existing one? Try Bergamot: Blend 4 drops of Bergamot essential oil with 1 TBSP (15mL) of carrier oil (almond, grapeseed, etc.). Massage the skin over the bladder area (lower abdomen) once daily.

More to come in the second installment of this post...

Disclaimer: Neither Keeper of the Home nor its contributing authors are medical professionals, nor do we claim to be able to give medical advice. This information is merely to educate, inspire and motivate you to look into these issues more on your own, or to speak with your own medical practitioner for more information.

Kimberly is behind Fertility Flower, a website promoting natural fertility and healthy living. She has one daughter, Blanka, age 8 months and hopes to have more children someday.

Top image by eggybird

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You might also enjoy:

1. A Year of Herbs: Ginger
2. A Year of Herbs: Garlic
3. Healthy, Natural Pregnancy: Sciatica
4. A Year of Herbs

**Have you been following A Year of Herbs? Learn more about common herbs and ways that you can use them as simple remedies in your own home.**

I joked last year about how my husband was trying to convince me to view the yearly explosion of dandelions in our yard as a "harvest season".

Ahem. Last week the members of our church small group came over to our home and my dehydrator was busily whirring away in the background. A friend asked what I had going in there. Face reddened, I admitted that I was drying dandelions.

I'm already known as the kooky, health extremist in my church. I think I just sealed my fate, and will forever be known as "the one who eats all sorts of really weird stuff".

What are the benefits of dandelions?

They are nutritive.

This is a fancy way of saying that they have lots of great nutrients in them, such as beta-carotene, Vitamins C, E and K, as well as many B vitamins (1, 2, 6, 12), and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur and zinc. They may also contain vital trace minerals such as copper, cobalt, boron and molybdenum.

They have many uses in natural healing.

• Supporting liver and gallbladder function
• Cleansing the bloodstream
• Can be used as a diuretic (for fluid retention)
• Aids in digestion, and the function of the pancreas, spleen and stomach
• Helpful for skin disorders, including eczema and acne
• May help to protect from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cancer and diabetes
• High iron levels are useful for treating anemia
• Aid in bowel function, and can be equally useful for both constipation and diarrhea
• White sap from root/stem may be used as a topical remedy for warts
• Can provide relief from menstrual cramps and menopause symptoms

They are abundant and free!

Never thought you would be happy to see them rear their yellow heads each spring? Now you can enjoy going out to your yard and picking them with relish. Instant weed control AND a way to gather medicinal herbs, all in one. Beautiful, right?

Foraging for wild foods like dandelions is definitely a frugal food option and a valuable way to add a nutrient-dense ingredient to your kitchen.

How to use dandelions

I am not yet an expert as this is my first year to actually take advantage of the harvest right outside my back door. So far, I have dried many leaves for the purpose of using in homemade herbal teas.

Leaves

• Use fresh, tender, spring leaves in salads
• Fresh leaves can also be used in juicing (minimally, though, as they do have a diuretic effect- add a small handful of leaves in with other fruits and veggies)
• Steam or saute them
• Dry them to use in teas

Flowers

• Dandelion Flower Fritters (this looks so interesting, I think my kids will love these!)
• Dandelion Wine (I discovered this last year in The Backyard Homestead)
• Easy Dandelion Flower Cookies (pictured above- image from this recipe)
• Dandelion Jelly
• Fresh in salads

The main trick is to make sure you pull off just the flower and not any of the green stem, because that is where the bitterness begins. If you pop off just the flower top, there should be no bitter taste.

Roots

• Harvest in fall (try to find large, well-established plants). Roots can be dried and roasted then ground up to be used as a coffee substitute. They are a common ingredient in many herbal/grain coffee substitutes in health food stores.
• Can also be boiled to make a nutritious tea
• Add them to soup broth for added nutrients

More resources on using dandelions:

Dandelions are Super Foods

Health Benefits of Dandelions

Dandelion Root Health Benefits

Have you picked and used dandelions as a food or nutrition source? What are your favorite ways to use them?

Image credit  katjohnston

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• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

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1. A Year of Herbs
2. A Year of Herbs: Ginger
3. A Year of Herbs: Garlic
4. Preserving Summer’s Bounty: Drying and Grinding Herbs

This year I've committed myself to studying up on herbs in greater detail, learning how to use them for treating sicknesses, discomforts and other ailments, as well as for boosting our overall health. It's been fascinating so far and I just love the in-depth learning that I am doing.

However, in-depth personal study on the topics of herbology and natural remedies certainly isn't for everyone. I know that many moms are looking instead for some sort of easy reference for natural and herbal remedies. The Handbook of Vintage Remedies really fits the bill, with information that is suited to the whole family, including pregnant and breastfeeding moms, infants, children, and the elderly.

It is not only a great go-to guide, but it also spends some time teaching in the early chapters about the concepts of natural and alternative medicine, about herbs, homeopathy, botanicals, nutrition and more. Author Jessie Hawkins, MH, works hard in the beginning of the book to really lay a foundation for why and how a family might want to use these types of remedies and how to pursue good health in a holistic way, and not just by treating symptoms of illness. Jessie is an ideal person to learn from, as she has completed numerous herbal programs herself, and has additional education in midwifery, childbirth education, environmental health, childhood health and modern disorders and birth doula certification. Best of all, she approaches natural health from a Christian perspective, which is so very needed with the vast array of options that are out there today!

The main section of the book works alphabetically through all sorts of common symptoms and conditions, such as Acne, Bed-Wetting, Canker Sores, Colic, Eczema, Gallstones, Pink Eye, Sinus Infection, and Urinary Tract Infections. I didn't count, but there are probably more than 100 ailments included. There are a few more chronic conditions listed as well, like Autism, ADHD, Diabetes and Ulcers. It's honestly hard to try to come up with something that isn't covered in the book!

Following this, Jessie goes into about 30 herbs and botanicals in more detail (focusing on ones that are used repeatedly throughout the remedies in the book), telling you briefly about the history of a herb, how it is usually used, some dosage tips, and when to avoid it. Lastly, there are a couple of short chapters with recipes for non-toxic, homemade cleaning supplies and beauty/skin care, which look wonderful and many of them are quite simple to make.

Now, I am one of those people who has umpteen books on natural remedies, alternative health, nutritional therapy and naturopathic treatments. Most of them are virtual encyclopedias of information, but that's actually part of the problem. When I go to look up a specific illness or complaint, I find pages and pages of information, and often a list of anywhere from 10-40 different supplements and herbs that might be useful. Filtering through it all can be very confusing and daunting, especially to those who are newer to alternative medicine.

What I appreciate about The Handbook of Vintage Remedies is that Jessie, who happens to be a mom herself, has written it specifically for moms. It doesn't bog you down, but succinctly and simply steers you in the right direction!

You may have noticed the advertisement for The Handbook of Vintage Remedies on my sidebar this past month or so. Although I have not received any compensation for writing this review (except for a book to review), I gladly chose to run the ad because this is a book that I would be happy to recommend to other moms. I love tools that give you a good foundation and some confidence in your own ability to make wise, natural choices for treating illnesses in your family. You'll also note that the ad includes a coupon code for free shipping when you buy the book, by using the word "KOTH" when you check out.

I have one copy to give away as well! Who would like to add The Handbook of Vintage Remedies to their own arsenal of tools for keeping their family healthy, naturally?

Here's how you can earn yourself some entries:

1. Leave a comment telling us either why you'd like to win this book, or a favorite natural remedy that you already use.
2. Follow Jessie on Twitter (@VintageRemedies)
3. Become a Facebook fan of Vintage Remedies
4. Follow myself on Twitter (@KeeperHome)
5. Tweet or Facebook the giveaway.
6. Subscribe to Keeper of the Home.
7. Strike up a new topic in the Forum, or join in on a conversation that's already happening (or become a member if you aren't one yet).

*Please remember to leave each entry as a separate comment!

Giveaway will end Saturday, February 20th at 3:00pm. Giveaway has now ended!

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• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

You might also enjoy:

1. A Year of Herbs
2. A Year of Herbs: Ginger
3. Herbal Art Prints Giveaway!
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Image by vieuxbandit

As I went to write this next post for my Year of Herbs series, I had been thinking of doing comfrey or yarrow. However, I've really been enjoying learning about herbs that we all have right at our fingertips (like garlic and onion, or fennel and dill). Ginger seemed a perfect choice to study up on next!

Truthfully, I had never, ever thought of ginger as a "herb" (or at least, a medicinal one) until I began studying up on herbs. Suddenly I was just floored to realize it's useful qualities and the fact that it was readily available at any old grocery store!

One little caveat- based on my current commitment to spend a bit less time blogging and writing complex posts, this hasn't been nearly as thoroughly researched as my Garlic post. This is just what I was able to come up with in a more reasonable amount of time (and it took me several weeks!) and some of the ways that I have been learning to use it personally. I hope you still find it helpful to encourage you along in your own studies and use of herbs!

History

Ginger originates from tropical Asia but has been used in the West for at least 2000 years. It has traditionally been used as a warming herb, and in the 18th century began to be added to remedies to help reduce irritation on the stomach. It is still sometimes used this way in Chinese medicine, to reduce the toxicity of some of the more harsh herbs.

General Qualities and Uses

Ginger is known to: improve circulation, aid digestion, reduce nausea, help heartburn, reduce aches and pains, increase warmth, decrease congestion. Also known to be anti-inflammatory, relaxing, detoxifying.

Active ingredients in ginger are turpines (yes, similar to turpentine) and oleo-resin compounds called Gingerols. They are antiseptic, lymph-cleansing, circulation-stimulating, and mild constipation-relieving qualities, and potent perspiration inducing action.

It is also a good "carrier herb" which means it helps to bind several herbs together and help the entire formula to work more deeply and effectively. Great to add in to a combination with other herbs.

So maybe ginger snaps aren't medicinal...

Image by rusvalpauke

Methods of Use

Powder- Ensure that you're using high quality ginger powder (even the stuff from the grocery store is fine if it's actually fresh).  I have a nice big bag of very fresh ginger powder from Oregon Spice Company that works well, and another great place to purchase fresh ginger would be Mountain Rose Herbs.

Fresh ginger root-Buy one that looks particularly fresh from the market or grocery store. It will stay nicely in the fridge for several weeks. Just cut off chunks as needed.

Capsules- These are basically just powdered ginger in a capsule, but some people may find it easier to take. These are available at pretty much any health food or supplement store.

Dried whole or chunks- These can be used similarly to powdered, or could also be boiled just like fresh ginger root.

Ginger Oil- It is also available as an essential oil, though I will confess that I have not tried it in this form and have no found a lot of information on how to safely use it, as oils are much more concentrated than these other forms.

Particular Uses

Low Blood Pressure- Take ginger in any form daily. This is only a temporary help, so underlying issues should definitely still be looked into.

Circulation- Ginger really speeds up circulation, brings warmth and helps to flush different areas of the body. Excellent to use a hot cup of ginger tea for this purpose (with lemon and honey is nice), or a bath is a great option (see bath description under Fevers). I tried this the last time I had some mild fever/chills with a bad cold, and the bath was so soothing and definitely helped to warm me up and relax me enough to go to sleep quickly.

Colds/Flus- Really soothing to symptoms of colds/flu (congestion, chills, fever, aches and pains). With that same cold, I made for myself a "winter sickie tea" as I called it, and it included a heaping dose of ginger. Sipping on my tea throughout the day helped so much to warm and decongest me and allow me to function as well as possible while getting over my cold. You can make a tea like this using any form of ginger (fresh, dried, powdered) by simmering it in boiling water.

Congestion- Ginger helps in two different sort of ways. Very helpful for general congestion within the body, particularly the build up of toxins or when major organs (like the liver or the digestive system) are rather congested and not functioning well. It helps to speed up the circulation, break down congestion and flush toxins to get things working more smoothly again. In regards to congestion from a head cold, it breaks up mucus and helps to flush it out. Whenever I would get too congested with my last head cold, a big mug of tea with ginger would do the trick. Within less than a half hour, I would start to notice that I was blowing my nose more frequently and then within 15-20 minutes, suddenly I began to feel very noticeably less congested.

Constipation- Acts as a stimulant to the digestive system and helps to get things moving, but without the harsh action of a laxative. One option for desperate times is a ginger enema (and quite frankly I have no clue how to administer an enema nor tips for you on how to do so, but have only read that it is helpful!). Taking it orally is generally useful enough, mixing either powdered ginger with water and drinking 2-3 times a day, or simmering fresh ginger to make a tea (and simmering with flax seeds, and also honey or molasses adds to the effectiveness of this brew). This is considered quite safe for children as well as adults (though as always, use a much smaller/weaker dose when giving anything herbal to children).

Digestion- Ginger stimulates the digestive juices which is why it is so helpful for cases of indigestion. It relieves gas, cramping, heartburn. It can be taken either before OR after a meal to improve digestion. If a meal is sitting heavily with you, sipping on a mug of ginger tea afterwords will likely be very helpful. I have used it over and over again in this regard, especially while pregnant, with excellent results.

Fever- Because it increases circulation and stimulates perspiration, it flushes out toxins and can help a fever to leave the body faster. One excellent way to use ginger with a fever is a soothing ginger bath. You can use anywhere from 2-6 Tbsp of ginger  or even up to 1/2 a cup (though you should work up the amount slowly if you are not used to it). Just toss the powdered ginger right in the tub as it's filling up and then soak in the tub while sipping on a glass of water. You will definitely notice the warmth, but will also find that fever and chills will most likely decrease after a while.

Ginger Bath- Described above. Good for fever/chills/aches/pains. Also for detoxifying, increasing circulation of the body in general.

Ginger Poultice- Used externally, over an area of congestion or for inflamed, aching, sprained or stiff skin, muscles or appendages. Mix the powder into a past with water and spread it about 1/8 inch thick on a cloth (like cotton or wool). Put it over something to catch the drips and add enough boiling water to wet and heat the herbs (but not wash them away). When it's cool enough for the skin, apply and secure using a towel, etc. to hold it in place. Can add a hot water bottle or heating pad on top to increase it's effectiveness.

Headaches and Migraines- Often helpful because many headaches apparently have their root cause in poor digestion and circulation (something I'd never heard before until studying ginger!). One great way to use ginger is this case is to soak your feet in a strong ginger bath. Ginger can also be taken in capsule or tea form for a headache, but may take longer to work that way.

Heartburn- Aside from Slippery Elm (which I take in lozenges made by a company called Thayer's), ginger is my go-to herb when I am pregnant and dealing with heartburn. I assume the reason it helps so much is because the heartburn is stemming from indigestion, which is worsened in pregnancy by hormones that slow down digestion and by increasing pressure on the stomach as the uterus expands. Whatever the reason, sipping on ginger tea throughout the day, but especially before and after meals, is sooo helpful for me in keeping the heartburn to a manageable level!

Inflammation- Can be very helpful for things like arthritis, tendonitis, sprains, etc. It is very anti-inflammatory and can be used externally (as a poultice, as mentioned above (Ginger Poultice) or taken internally. One suggested internal dose for inflammation is 1/3 tsp powdered ginger 3 times a day.

Lungs- Ginger can be taken both internally and externally (in a poultice put over the chest) to help with lung irritations (like asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia) or any kind of congestion.

Menstruation- Helpful for cramps especially, because of antispasmodic properties and because of the increase circulation and blood-flow. Could use as a tea/capsule, or take a bath or use a warm poultice on lower abdomen.

Mumps (or swollen lymph glands)- Ginger baths are very helpful for relieving the swelling, and can also be used internally.

Nausea- Pregnant women take note! Ginger is your friend if you suffer from morning sickness! Sipping on ginger teas can be very helpful for mild nausea that comes and goes. For more persistent nausea, try taking ginger  either in capsules, or just 1/2 to 1 tsp of powdered ginger with some water. I've also known someone who just ate small chunks of fresh ginger directly and said it really did the trick. Taken directly in the mouth it helps to give much more immediate relief. Sometimes it helps to take several doses 15 minutes apart to soothe extended nausea. If you struggle with motion sickness, taking a dose of ginger before your begin to travel and also while you are traveling can help to keep the nausea at bay. You could also mix the ginger powder with a little honey or molasses to get it down more easily. One book noted that while ginger will help with nausea in about 9/10 people, there are some who don't find it effective. For those people, peppermint may be a more effective nausea remedy.

Skin Issues- A ginger bath can be helpful for rash or other skin irritations. Because it increases the circulation and flushes out toxins, it can clear out what is happening on the inside of the body that is being eliminated through the skin (because often our skin is just showing that there is something happening inside the body- it's a symptom of something else).

Stimulant and Tonic- Ginger can be invigorating, when lacking energy or for those in cold climates during the winter. Something like a ginger tea or bath will icnrase circulation and warmth and act as a pick-me-up.

Sore Throat- One book suggested using a mixture of ginger powder and clove powder in equal parts (ginger for anti-inflammatory properties and clove for pain relief), then take 1 tsp of the mixed powders and stir into 2 Tbsp of olive oil. Use 1/2 tsp of this herbal oil, swallowing slowly to allow it to coat throat. Or gargle with ginger tea, or the ginger/clove mixture in water as a gargle. Could also make small balls with honey and ginger to suck on.

Ok, ok, candied ginger may not be medicinal either, but it's pretty, no?

Image by thedeliciouslife

Warning/Contraindication

*Ginger can sometimes be too stimulating for some people. Start with lower doses, whether orally or in a ginger bath or whatever, and work up if it is well tolerated.

*Because of it's mild laxative-resembling qualities, taking too much can be too stimulating for the intestines in some people. Start slow on doses and work up as your body tolerates it.

*If the stomach is already upset or over-producing acid (or in an ulcerous state) avoid too much ginger as this may cause more irritation.

*Though ginger is safe in pregnancy and useful for nausea, still use it with respect and do not use extremely large doses. If in doubt, ask your midwife or naturopath. Sticking with fresh ginger teas makes it hard to take in too much.

Have you tried using ginger in a medicinal or healing manner? What have you found it to be useful for? Have you ever thought of ginger as a "herb", for that matter?

Our Sponsors:

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• Experience God as Your Provider: Does Your Financial Future Feel Like a Crumbling Sand Castle?
• Learn to Cook With Sourdough: "Pay What You Can" Classes in Sourdough and Traditional Cooking
• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

You might also enjoy:

1. A Year of Herbs: Garlic
2. A Year of Herbs
3. Homemade Cough and Cold Syrup
4. Herbs for the Fussy Baby

Since mentioning and tweeting (@keeperhome) about this syrup I made, I've had many requests to share the recipe, so here it is!

It comes from a book I mentioned briefly before called 10 Essential Herbs by Lalitha Thomas. This is a rare (I believe because it's out of print) book from 1996 that my mother-in-law stumbled upon somewhere. It's very interesting because Lalitha is not a "certified" anything when it comes to herbs, but it's clear as you read through the book that they are very much a part of her daily life and that her own personal study and use of herbs is extensive. Personally, I'm very happy to read a book by someone who doesn't have letters after her name but has devoted much of her life to learning a craft, and Lalitha is incredibly skilled at communicating how to use herbs in a down-to-earth way for anyone who is just learning. I love this book in particular because it focuses on 10 easily acquired herbs (cloves, chaparral, cayenne, comfrey, ginger, garlic, onion, peppermint, slippery elm and yarrow) and shows you how to treat almost anything with only these 10 herbs. Amazing!

This recipe I'm sharing comes from her chapter on Onion, which I confess I had sort of skipped over at first to read the other chapters on more "interesting and useful" herbs. The laugh is on me, because when I finally got around to reading about the humble onion, I was astounded at how useful it is! I made this recipe in 20 minutes yesterday while puttering around the kitchen making other things and Abbie and I have been using it since then. It seems to be keeping her coughing to a minimum, as well as helping to ease my sore throat and minimizing my stuffiness. I feel like it's helping to decongest my sinuses, which is such a relief, even if it means I'm going through tissue by the boatload.

Ingredients:

1 cup freshly chopped onion

About 1/2 cup raw honey

Plus any of the following (optional):

1 tsp. Cloves (whole or powdered)- specifically good for pain relief

1-2 Tbsp. Comfrey or Slippery Elm (dried or powdered)- Comfrey is particularly good for healing, and Slippery Elm has more of a reputation for soothing and coating the throat

1-2 Tbsp. fresh chopped Ginger root OR 1 tsp. Ginger powder- Ginger increases warmth, circulation (important for healing) and the overall effectiveness of the syrup

**You can include all of these optional herbs, but at a maximum of 2 Tbsp. extra herbs total

Directions

Put chopped onions and any herbs of choice into a small stainless steel or glass pot (not alumnimum). Add enough honey to cover the onions ( for me, this seemed to be about 1/2 a cup, though I didn't measure exactly).

Turn the pot on low heat and slowly simmer. The honey will soften and become liquidy, and you want to keep the temperature very low while allowing the herbs to steep in the honey. It's best to keep a lid on to help keep all of the medicinal properties of the herbs in the syrup, and just take the lid off to give it a quick stir every few minutes to ensure it doesn't burn at all (though the temp. should be low enough to prevent this).

Give it 20 minutes of simmering, then remove it from the heat. Strain the onions and herbs out and store the remaining honey (which might have flecks of herb in it and this is fine) in a small glass jar with a lid and keep it in the fridge.

The syrup can be used as often as needed, up to every half hour. Here are the dosages:

1 tsp. for a younger child

1 Tbsp. for anyone 10 years and older

Image by thenss

While we're on the topic of using onions medicinally, I thought I should mention another use I learn yesterday. A commenter said that when her children are sick, she puts chopped onions in a small bag around their neck when they go to bed and in the morning, they wake up well. First I had ever heard of it, but I've heard stranger things. Wouldn't you know it that later yesterday, as I was reading about onion in the book, I read that breathing the fumes of an onion will help with congestion from a cold or other illness!

Since both Johanna and I have been plugged up lately (her more at night, me all the time) I decided to chop a large onion into chunks and put it in a bowl on the night table near where we both sleep. I couldn't quite bring myself to actually put it in bed with me, but I could still smell it, for sure! Well, last night was the best sleep I have had in a few nights and the first time that I woke up without feeling all plugged up! Three cheers for the onion!

Has anyone else been using onion as a herbal remedy? How do you use it and do you find it effective?

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Wouldn't you know it, that within days of posting on garlic and all of its healing properties, we would come home from a weekend away with several sickies (including myself)?

I've spent the last 4 days on a computer fast, as suggested by my wise and loving husband. He knew that I was a bit burnt out and needed some screen-free time to just regroup and rest. I thoroughly enjoyed taking a break and was eager to come back from the weekend with lots of energy and inspiration for new posts. Instead, I'm going to spend the next day or two putting all of my herb and natural healing studies to good use, as I nurse myself and my daughter through a yucky cold and help everyone else to stay well!

Sometimes it is nice to see how others use herbs to promote healing, so I thought I'd give you a glimpse into what I'm doing so far:

• Got my daughter to eat a small clove of raw garlic with applesauce. Made a delicious piece of raw garlic toast for myself and my husband (I had 3 cloves, he had 2).
• Made a tea with comfrey and ginger. The ginger is especially good for circulation and warming the body, the comfrey is great for the immune system, and both are helpful for decongestion and to draw out the toxins (since a cold is one of the body's ways of healing itself and detoxifying). From what I've read, they work well together, as well as when used with raw garlic. We (my daughter, husband and I) drank our tea with just a bit of raw honey to sweeten it. Both comfrey and ginger are fascinating herbs that I've been studying, so you can look forward to a post on at least one (or both) or them in the next few months.
• I also added a few sprinkles of Cayenne powder to my tea, also excellent for decongestion and circulation. Not enough to make it hot, though. I'm a wimp!
• We took an extra dose of our fermented Cod Liver Oil/Butter Oil from Green Pastures, for all the good fats and the boost of Vitamin D (helpful for immunity).
• Made a bed for our daughter on the floor of our bedroom and set up the humidifier (so that the 3 of us who need it- her, myself and the baby who has a mild case of the sniffles) can share it. The warm, moist air will help to clear our sinuses and chests so that we can sleep well, and I added a few drops of Eucalyptus essential oil to help us breathe even more easily.
• I'm about to take a Ginger bath before bed. The warmth from the ginger helps to relieve chills and aches, and speeds up circulation to promote healing, and will also help to clear my nose a little bit more so that I won't have too hard of a time falling asleep. Plus, it sounds relaxing. :)
• Tomorrow, I'll bring out the chicken broth and make a huge pot of steaming, delicious, nourishing soup for lunch (and maybe dinner, too)!

You can see this older post of mine for some other examples of what I do to naturally help myself get over a cold quicker, or at least feel better (without the use of medication) while I'm in the midst of it.

What types of herbs or other natural treatments do you use to deal with a cold?

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• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

You might also enjoy:

1. A Year of Herbs: Garlic
2. A Year of Herbs
3. Preserving Summer’s Bounty: Drying and Grinding Herbs
4. Herbs for the Fussy Baby

Image by Muffet

In light of flu/cold season, garlic with all it's wondrous antibacterial properties seemed like the perfect herb for kicking off the real, official start of A Year of Herbs!

(Okay, I sort of started it already with Herbs for the New Mama and Herbs for the Fussy Baby. But this time, I'm actually studying individual herbs... my original goal!)

History

It seems that almost every ancient culture had a place for garlic in their traditional healing remedies. Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians ate garlic often for strength and endurance. Chinese texts refer to it's use back to 2000 B.C. and it's been reported that Chinese prisoners were fed one clove daily to keep them healthy, energized and able to work. It was even sometimes used as a form of payment in various cultures! It was frequently used during times of plague, as well as for many diseases and infections. There is a story in France folklore of 4 thieves required to deal with dead bodies during a particular plague, who ate garlic-infused vinegar to keep themselves healthy. More recently, it was used during WWI as a natural antiseptic and antibacterial when clinics were low on medical supplies.

General Qualities and Uses

Garlic is most known for it's abilities to cleanse, heal, expel metals and toxins, kill yeast and parasites, help arthritis sufferers (anti-inflammatory), warm the body and increase circulation, balance blood sugar, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent heart problems, and mostly for it's potent anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties.

Garlic contains alliin, which converts to allicin when crushed or minced. Allicin has antibiotic effects, which I have read can be equivalent to anywhere from 1% to 20% of a standard penicillin dose. It also contains sulphur compounds (where much of it's healing power is), as well as vitamins C and B, flavanoids (antioxidants), and the trace minerals selenium and germanium (excellent for cancer prevention among other things).

The active components in garlic are heat sensitive and fairly volatile, and therefore most of it's benefit will be lost if the garlic is cooked. Please, by all means, continue to cook with lots of garlic just because it tastes amazing and still contains some benefits. But for medicinal use, it must be kept raw to truly be effective.

Methods of Use

Fresh, Raw Garlic Cloves

This is my favorite way to use it. Try to choose the freshest, nicest looking bulbs you can (organic is best if it's available). Make sure to peel and wash them well, as the peels can have bacteria or mold in them. They can be eaten whole, swallowed in chunks, sliced or minced and added to foods, etc. Personally, my husband and I love to make toast and butter it, then mince garlic and spread it on top for a "raw" garlic toast. My daughter will even eat it this way, though I make hers more mild. Other ways to consume it raw: in a sandwich where the toppings help hide the strong flavor, with a teaspoon of honey, in homemade guacamole, in salad dressings, etc.

Garlic Oil

I found this recipe in 10 Essential Herbs, one of the books that I'm studying:

1/2 cup minced fresh garlic

1/2 cup olive oil

Blend thoroughly, then add 1/4 cup more olive oil. Stir and put in a covered glass jar on a sunny windosill and let it sit 10 days. Gently shake the jar about 3 times a day. On the 10th day, strain it through a cloth and store the oil in a well-sealed glass container in the fridge. (I have made less of it, and stored it in an old glass Stevia bottle with a dropper lid).

Garlic Powder

You can use any dried garlic powder, but it will be most potent if you buy it from a reputable spice company who's spices and herbs are very fresh and not irradiated (like Oregon Spice Company, or from somewhere like Mountain Rose Herbs). It can be the very same dried garlic you use for cooking, but it's great to have it around for medicinal uses as well!

Image by photofarmer

Garlic Poultice

To make a garlic poultice, simply put either crushed raw garlic or garlic powder directly over the body part you wish to use a poultice on (a poultice is just a fancy word for any moist application put on the skin for healing purposes). Cover with a clean cloth or bandage. You can also warm the poultice with a hot water bottle to help it penetrate more.

On sensitive skin (such as the face, or on a young child or baby's skin) use a light coating of oil or cream underneath. Petroleum jelly was suggested in one book, but I prefer to avoid petroleum products, so I would suggest something like coconut oil or a natural lotion instead. When garlic goes on the skin, it is absorbed and enters the blood and lymph system (this is how it is able to work and heal!), and you may actually begin to taste it in your mouth! This is just fine, but you might want to chew or sip on something to mask the flavor (mint, parsley, etc.).

Garlic Water

Simply add fresh crushed garlic and mix well with the water. You can add more or less depending on how potent you want it and may need to experiment. I wasn't able to find any particular dose suggestions, but I would just start with a couple cloves and add more if needed.

Garlic Capsules

For those wanting to take it in a more palatable form (though I think you might learn to like it more if you try!), you can also take odorless garlic capsules. It is important to buy a very high-quality brand, as most garlic supplements are not made carefully enough to retain the maximum healing benefits. A few particularly good brands out there include: Kyolic (which I've tried may times- easy to take, truly doesn't smell), Arizona Natural and Kwai. You can buy these at pretty much any reputable health food or supplement store.

Particular Uses

High Blood Pressure/High Cholesterol: Garlic contains a compound called "methyl allyl trisulfide" which gently dilates congested/restricted blood vessel walls. It also calms nerves and strengthens the heart. It should be taken daily, either about 3-5 capsules (check the brand for dosage), or 1-3 fresh cloves, or 1/4 tsp. powdered. It may take up to 3 months to begin to see effects, but there have been numerous scientific studies done (Loma Linda and Tulane University were two I ran across) showing significant decreases in both blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

Heart Attacks: It also thins the blood by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which reduces the risk of blood clots and heart attacks. Can be used in the same manner as for blood pressure, as a preventative.

Amoebic Dysentery: This is the fancy term for when you go on a trip somewhere (esp. third world countries) and you get an stomach upset, diarrhea, etc. This is from parasites or bacteria that your body is unfamiliar with, often from drinking the local water. Taking garlic several times a day (either raw or capsules would work well) will help to kill any bugs in your system and clear up the digestive upset.

Colds/Flus: Take garlic every 2-3 hours as an antibiotic (raw, capsules, oil, etc.- however you can get it in!). For children it can be taken with honey, or even applied to the bottoms of their feet as a poultice (remember to use a layer of oil or cream first). In addition to all the regular cold/flu remedies (rest, liquids, vitamin C, etc.) this can help to significantly boost your body's ability to fight off the virus that has you down.

Coughs/Sore Throats: Can be taken as for colds and flus. I did this while fighting my recent throat infection and even though I ultimately ended up with a secondary infection, it actually seemed to clear up the first infection quite well. Another way to use it for the throat is by making a "cough syrup". One method of doing this that I read was to crush a whole bulb's worth of cloves into a bowl and then cover the crushed garlic with honey (just enough to cover it). Cover and let it sit overnight (you could probably use some after even a few hours). Take by the spoonful as needed, as you would a cough syrup.

Image by Milena Mihaylova

Bug/Insect Bites: Cut a slice of raw garlic and rub the bite with the wet, juicy side. This is very effective if the bite has become slightly infected as well.

Earache/Ear Infection: Place a few drops of Garlic Oil (see above) in each ear (even if the earache is in only one ear), and then hold in place with a cotton ball. Repeat several times a day til better. Our children have never had a full blown ear infection, but a couple months ago Abbie had the beginnings of one and I did this and it went away completely.

Pimples: Rub a small slice of garlic (again, the wet side) directly onto the pimple before bed.

Footbath: Use warm Garlic Water (see above) to soak feet in for about 20 minutes. This draws out toxins, soothes tension, helps to treat fungal infections like Athletes Foot or any sort of fungal nail issues, etc. as well as supposedly being quite relaxing (I wouldn't know as I haven't tried it yet!).

Insect Repellant: I'm not sure how stylish this would look, but I'm sure it would be effective! I read that you can make a string of garlic cloves for camping, hiking, etc. and wear it around your neck or hat brim. I'm sure you could also attach it to your backpack or somewhere a little less visible. :) Another idea was to make a pouch with raw garlic cloves and put it near your bed when sleeping somewhere rustic.

Arthritis: When taken regularly (daily, either in raw or capsule form, as for High Blood Pressure, above), garlic acts as an anti-inflammatory and has been known to offer signigicant relief from arthitic pain.

Boils: Use a Garlic Poultice (see above) to draw the boil out more, then drain it using a sharp, sterile needle. Reapply a fresh poultice until the boil is healed.

Skin Infections: The anti-bacterial qualities of garlic will also work externally, even by sprinkling garlic powder on top of an infected area (you can put a bandage over it if needed or preferred). I think that you could also try mixing the powder with something like coconut oil (which also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities) and rub it on like a cream.

Warts: Put a slice of raw garlic on the wart (wet side down) and cover with a bandaid. Keep replacing the slice each morning and evening until it is gone (keep it on overnight as well). The wart will decrease in size, but still leave behind black dots on the skin (these are somewhat like a root). Keep applying the garlic until these black dots go away as well to ensure that the wart is entirely gone and cannot return.

Candida/Yeast Infections: Taking garlic daily (your preferred form) will aid in decreasing the yeast and improving the efficacy of whatever else you are doing to get rid of the yeast (Candida diet, other supplements, etc.). This is because of garlic's anti-fungal properties.

Wounds: First of all, use garlic water to rinse off an open wound and clean it out. Then apply garlic powder as a poultice before dressing the wound, to help speed healing and prevent infection.

Thrush: (related to Candida/Yeast Infections). For adults, either eating raw garlic or taking capsules will help to overcome a thrush infection (which is basically just yeast overgrowth inside the mouth). It would be particularly effective to be able to chew some of the garlic if you are able. For a child or baby, you can give garlic oil instead (using a smaller dose depending on how small the child is). A couple of drops for a young child, and perhaps 1 drop at a time for an infant (and I don't know if I would use it for a newborn- I would probably take extra garlic myself as a nursing mom).

Warnings/Contraindications

• Garlic is very heating and can irritate the stomach. It's best to consume with food, rather than on an empty stomach, and if you're not used to eating it much then work your way up slowly
• Though generally considered to be safe in both pregnancy and breastfeeding, use more minimally. It can cause digestive problems (ie. heartburn) and very excessive use has some possible links to bleeding in pregnancy/childbirth (keep in mind- this is only excessive use- not a bit here and there to boost immunity which would be considered quite safe), and some babies may not like the flavor of too much in breastmilk.
• If you eat garlic, you'll smell like garlic. It can't really be avoided! But you can freshen your breath by eating things like fresh mint or parsley, chewing on a piece of cinnamon stick, drinking lemon water, etc. If this really turns you off, try using the odorless capsules instead of fresh.

Can you believe all of the incredible uses for such a simple herb that most people already have in their kitchens? As I did this research, I found myself continually making notes for myself on ways that I would use garlic from now on, as well as turning to my husband and saying, "And honey, I think you should use garlic for..." at least five times. I already believed in garlic for immunity again colds and flus, for earaches, etc. but I am just thrilled to know about all of the other incredible uses for this God-given herb!

Have you ever used garlic for treating any ailments or for any other sort of medicinal purpose? Do these uses sound feasible to you? Which ones do you think you'd be most likely to try?

Note: In the next week or two, I plan to post about the books that I am using as resources for my herb studies. That is where the bulk of this information is coming from and I want to make sure to give credit to the authors of the books, as well as give you some starting places for your own studies of herbs.

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• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

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Johanna at about 1 month old, during the worst of her colic and baby acne

Colic and fussiness in young babies just isn't fun for anyone. Not for the baby. Certainly not for the parents. It can be downright exhausting, and it's difficult to see your baby in such pain and discomfort and to feel that you can't do anything about it.

There are a lot of products out on the market for colic in babies. Unfortunately, most of them use substances that only treat the symptoms, such as sodium bicarbonate which is used in antacid relief (like Tums or Rolaids), or gas suppressing medications such as Simethicone which are used in over-the-counter remedies like Ovol (basically a child's version of Maalox or Mylanta), not to mention the alcohol that is so often used in commercial infant Gripe Water.

Personally, I chose to go with herbal remedies that I felt would
support and improve my baby girl's digestion, which was where her fussiness
seemed to be originating. She was also dealing with a lot of baby acne,
which I noticed was very related to her digestion. When she had a less
fussy day and less stomach pain, the acne decreased, and on her worst
days, the acne flared up badly.

By using herbs that promote
better digestion we have seen a remarkable difference in our sweet
girl. In the course of a week of me taking a herbal tea that I put
together we saw her colic decrease immensely, to the point where she
would happily sit in an infant seat for up to 20 minutes at a time
(whereas before she constantly needed to be held, bounced, patted,
rocked, etc.). We've also seen her acne completely clear up. The change has really been amazing!

How Should Herbs Be Used With Babies?

I am still bit torn on whether to try giving something to baby directly, such as small amounts of diluted herbal tea. My basic concern is that a newborn or young baby's digestive system is just so incredibly sensitive and immature (hence the reason that they are fussy and colicky to begin with!), and the risk of introducing something to them that their systems cannot handle or may react to is very real.

In my experience with Johanna, I did try giving her some very small amounts of weak tea. I tried both a yarrow tea and a fennel tea. With the yarrow, I didn't specifically notice any difference, though I might not have tried it for long enough to really see it. With the fennel, I definitely did notice a difference. It was the first breakthrough we had in bringing some level of calm to our distraught baby.

However, I continued to feel a little bit unsettled about giving it to her, even though I know that many practitioners (such as midwives, naturopaths, herbalists, even doctors) would consider it safe. I'm not convinced that it isn't either, and I will be the first to admit that it can be very effective.

After my experience these past couple of weeks, however, my personal preference is taking stronger herbal teas myself. This way the soothing and digestion-easing properties of the herbs can be present in my milk, but have gone through the filter of my body first, rather than going into hers directly. I have found this to be equally as effective in helping my little girl, if not more effective, than giving her the herbal teas orally.

That said, if you would like to try giving them to your baby as a weak tea, here are some guidelines:

Simple vs. Combination

In my recent studies, I've learned that herbs are used both as "simples", meaning on their own, and also in combination with other herbs (and most herbs can be used in either way). When giving herbs to any infant or young child, it is always best to introduce each herb first as a simple, before giving it in combination. As with new foods, it is always possible (though not highly likely) that a baby could react to what they are being given, and if this happens you would want to know exactly what they reacted to in order to avoid giving it to them again. Once you know that baby does not react to several simple herbs, it would be fine to try them in combination.

Dosage

It is important to remember how much smaller an infant's body is than ours. At 7 weeks old, my 10 lb baby is a mere 1/13 of my body weight, and as a 7 lb newborn she was even that much smaller. Anything you give an infant needs to be in a much weaker, diluted form than what you would take yourself. In The Complete Medicinal Herbal
by Penelope Ody, she recommends giving any child under 1 year a dose that is one twentieth (1/20) of what would be a full adult dose. With something like fennel tea, if I were to make myself a tea I would probably use 1 Tbsp of fennel seas to 8 oz. of hot water. To make it for an infant (for example only- not all herbs use the same dose), I might use only 1 tsp. per  8 oz. to make a weaker brew, and then only give a 1/2 an ounce to 1 ounce at a time.

When the nursing mom is taking the herb instead, she simply needs to stick to what would be a reasonable amount of any herb (ensuring that the herb is safe for baby, of course). With the tea that I am currently drinking for post-partum health, I consume about 3-4 cups of full strength tea (1 Tbsp to 8 oz. water) throughout the course of the day. Usually 1-2 cups before noon, and another 2 cups in the evening. With this amount, we have seen nothing but excellent results in Johanna (and myself) and not a speck of a negative reaction.

Do Your Research

As I am only beginning my personal study in herbology, I would not dare tell you exactly which herbs you ought to take and in which dosage. I am learning from many different sources and am continually looking for new information and using things cautiously as I proceed.

One excellent resource that I have just come across in my studies is on kellymom.com (a fantastic resource for breastfeeding moms in general). Here you will find an alphabetized list of herbs and remedies, and whether they are safe for the nursing mother, as well as some dosage suggestions and possible uses. I would suggest that in your own research it is best to be more on the cautious side than to quickly accept ideas and suggestions from any old source. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Our sweet girl with her skin cleared up, and feeling so much happier!

Specific Herbs That are Helpful for the Fussy Baby

• Fennel seed
• Dill seed
• Catnip
• Chamomile
• Caraway
• Anise or Aniseed (not to be confused with Star Anise, which should not be given to babies)

As well, for more information on herbs that may be harmful for baby or for nursing mothers, here is more info on the topic from kellymom.

As with most natural remedies, what works for one person doesn't always work for someone else, and vice versa. Sometimes it's necessary to try a few different things before you find what works for you. Though they can be very effective in some situations, herbs may not always solve a baby's fussiness or digestive struggles. Many babies simply need more time to grow and mature and their issues will work themselves out with time. So hang in there, mama! You are doing an incredible job nurturing and caring for your little one and remember that this too shall pass! :)

Have you successfully used herbs to help a fussy or colicky baby? Tell us about your experience, or any other tips you have for helping a fussy baby!

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• Learn to Cook With Sourdough: "Pay What You Can" Classes in Sourdough and Traditional Cooking
• Holy Ambition: If you're thinking, God can't use me, think again! YOU can make a difference.

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Though I am eager to begin to study about individual herbs and their specific uses, my formal study of herbs has begun in a much more practical manner... finding and learning to use herbs that are helpful for both mother and baby in the early weeks and months after birth!

I've mentioned a couple of times that life has been particularly busy and stressful over the last month or so, just with some current circumstances, recovering from giving birth, and adjusting to life with a new (and fussy) baby in general and I have been feeling quite worn out as a result. In the midst of all this I was beginning to really struggle with my emotions-- sad and weepy one minute, angry and very irritable the next. I felt perpetually overwhelmed and like I was breaking a bit under the pressure of it all. In speaking with my husband and midwife, I recognized that what I was experiencing was the beginnings of post-partum depression.

I am so grateful to have realized this before things got any worse. My midwife encouraged me to discuss with my husband how I could find more times for rest and just ways to feel more like myself again and remove some of the stress I was feeling (which we did, and he was so supportive and loving to allow me to do that). She also gave me the go-ahead to do some research into herbs that I could try, that might assist my body in coping with the stress, bringing my hormones and emotions more under control, and just continuing to strengthen and rejuvenate my body so that I could better handle the demands that were on me.

I borrowed a book from the library called Natural Health after Birth by Aviva Jill Romm, a practicing midwife and herbalist. The focus of the book is on the post-partum period, a season of life that is often overlooked by most people, including new moms (and yes, especially me!). A wonderful aspect of the book is the use of herbal remedies to aid the mother's body in recovering physically and emotionally, as well as for increasing milk supply, helping fussy and colicky babies and more (though I can't recommend the book in it's entirety, as she is not a believer and there are some new age aspects of the book in some chapters). 

With the blessing of my midwife, I decided last week to put together one of the herbal tea mixes in the book, intended for helping with the symptoms of post-partum depression. Here is what I put together, partly from one of the book's specific recipes, and with some of my own substitutions (due to not being able to easily purchase all of the exact suggested herbs).

Keeping-Your-Balance Blend (slightly altered)

2 parts chamomile flowers (for relaxation)

2 parts nettle (for nutritive purposes, includes trace minerals and vitamins, to treat anemia, weakness and stabilize blood sugar. Also helpful for those feeling stressed and physically or emotionally drained)

2 parts peppermint (to energize and also soothe the nerves at the same time)

2 parts red raspberry leaves (rich in minerals, tonifying to the uterus, aids in balancing hormones, as well as adding a nice flavor to the tea)

1 part dandelion leaves (highly nutritive with trace minerals and iron)

I also added in:

2 parts catnip (a nervine herb, meant to relax and de-stress)

1 part yarrow (for reproductive organs and hormone balancing, immune boosting and digestion)

I mixed all of the dry herbs together in a glass jar and keep it on the counter with a measuring spoon. Whenever I want to make some, I boil some water and place 1 Tbsp of tea per cup of water into a french press. I let the kettle sit for a moment after turning it off so that it is no longer at a rolling boil (because this can damage the volatile oils in many herbs and reduce their effectiveness), then pour it over the herbs. With the lid on (but not pressed down), I let it sit and steep for 10-20 minutes before pressing it and pouring myself a mug. I aim to drink 2-4 cups of this tea a day.

**The original recipe did not include the catnip or yarrow, and also includes 2 parts of chrysanthemum flowers (for anger, stress and related emotions), oatstraw (nutritive, provides vigor and energy) and strawberry leaves (as a tonic and for nerves), and 1 part of both gingerroot (improves and stimulates circulation) and rose petals (relaxation, taste and possibly hormonal balancing). One substitute for oatstraw is to simply eat more oats, as they also contain most of the same qualities.

I am amazed at how much better I am feeling after only a week! Of course, it is not just the herbs. I have really been crying out to the Lord in prayer, playing worship music and meditating on Scripture truths, talking about how I'm doing with my husband and several friends, as well as just trying to take little breaks whenever I feel my emotions starting to rise up and become out of control.

I do feel, though, that the herbs I've been taking this past week have contributed to feeling much more calm and emotionally steady and more physically well than I did before. There have been many trying moments, but in general, I don't feel as overwhelmed as I did before and am more able to use self-control in how I respond to difficult situations.

As I've been reading and studying more about herbs lately, I've also been coming across some others that may be particularly useful for new mamas:

Nutritive (herbs with nourishing qualities, including protein, vitamins, minerals, etc.): Alfalfa, Ashwaganda, Gotu Kola, Hawthorn berries (and leaves and flowers), Milky oats (and oats in general), Nettle, , Red Raspberry leaf, Rose hips.

Nervines (herbs which support the nervous system, have a calming effect and help to relieve stress and tension): Ashwaganda, Catnip, Chamomile, Hops, Lavender, Lemon balm, Milky oats, Motherwort, Skullcap, Vervain

Galactagogues (herbs which support the nursing mother, particularly with maintaing an ample milk supply): Blessed thistle, Dandelion leaf, Fennel, Fenugreek, Nettle, Saw palmetto, Vervain, Vitex (this one is a little more controversial)

Herbs to AVOID while nursing:

Alkanet, Aloe Vera (externally is fine, but not internally), Aloes, Basil (as a food seasoning it's fine), Black Cohosh, Bladderwrack, Borage**, Bugleweed, Cascara sagrada (again, externally is fine), Chinese rhubarb, Coltsfoot, Comfrey**, Elecampane, Ephedra, Garlic (as with basil, fine for use as a food seasoning or ingredient), Joe Pye, Licorice, Male fern, Pugring buckthorn, Senna, Stillingia, Wormwood.

**I have seen conflicting information about comfrey and borage. Some books say they are fine, and even recommended for use as galactagogues. However, Romm suggests in Natural Health after Birth that they should not be used, though no specific reasons are given and I cannot seem to find any in my own research. I will have to continue to study, and so I can't really recommend them to you, one way or the other. Use your discernment in choosing whether to use them or not. 

I am currently also taking a herbal nursing tea, made by Rhea's Herbals Extractions (the products are great, but the site doesn't offer much information). I began taking it right after Johanna was born, to help establish a really solid milk supply, something which I struggled with a bit after Caden's birth for various reasons. It includes:

Red Raspberry, Chamomile, Lemon Grass, Borage Leaf, Fenugreek Seed, Star Anise, Marshmallow, Coriander, Fennel Seed, Galega. 

I have found that, despite feeling quite stressed and busy (usually not helpful for maintaining a good milk supply), I haven't really had any problems with having enough milk. There have been only a few days (and really, only one or two feeds on those days) where I felt it was a bit lacking, and I usually felt that was in response to me being too on-the-go, and not having had enough to eat and drink. 

For more great information on maintaining a good milk supply and a wonderful recipe for homemade mother's milk tea, check out this post. 

My next herb post will focus on some things that I have been learning about herbs for soothing the fussy, colicky or restless baby!

Has anyone else found herbs to be helpful in recovering after giving birth, for post-partum depression or for increasing milk supply? 

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