HealtyDayS

Herbalist Susun Weed recognizes the possibility of biological warfare and she is ready to cope with it. With her help, you too can be prepared with herbs and home remedies that you can use now to help avoid infection and to build a strong immune system. You can feel safer in these troubling times by learning about herbs that are effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and that can be used in conjunction with, or in place of (should there be a lack of) modern antibiotics.

Anthrax bacteria (Bacillus anthracis) enter the body through breaks in the skin or through the nose and lungs. Early symptoms (which may take up to a week to occur) include reddish-black sores on the skin or in the lymph nodes around the lungs. Hemorrhagic fever and death follows. Treated early, anthrax succumbs to antibiotics and most people (75-80 percent) recover completely. Even without treatment, according to some sources, more than half of those infected survive (genetically-engineered varieties may kill up to 90 percent of untreated victims). The inhaled variety is more lethal because the early symptoms of infection are easily ignored, delaying treatment past the point of most effect, and because pneumonia infections frequently complicate the recovery. Anthrax is not contagious; that is, it is not passed from person to person.

The antibiotic Cipro is one of the treatments approved by the US government for those definitely exposed to anthrax, but neither it nor any other antibiotic can prevent infection. It is dangerous to take antibiotics “just in case” for then they may not work when actually needed. Instead, try these home remedies.

Salt is lethal to bacteria. The simplest home remedy for those worried about exposure to anthrax is to rinse your nose with salt (any kind will do) mixed into water. Taste your mixture to be certain it is very salty. Getting this up your nose can be accomplished by putting your nose into the salt solution and snorting it in, or you may wish to buy a “neti pot,” a device from India used to rinse the nasal passages. Afterwards, blow your nose and spit out any residue that runs into the mouth.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has been scientifically shown to kill all gram positive and gram negative bacteria. A small spray bottle of the tincture of the flowering tops can be used to spray the inside of the nose, killing any bacteria lurking there. Spraying tincture in your nose does sting a little and makes the eyes water, but don’t dilute it - the alcohol is antibacterial too.

Garlic has been used to prevent infection for thousands of years; and it still works! No need to upset your stomach (and loved ones) by eating it raw; cooked garlic retains its antibacterial powers, so long as you eat enough of it. During plague times, healers in some areas wore a “bird’s beak:” a stiff cone was made of paper or bark, stuffed with garlic and spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg), and tied on over the nose to help prevent contagion. That’s a little cumbersome for modern times, but inhaling the aroma of a cup of spicy tea (there are many blends available, or make your own) could help forestall anthrax.

Medicinal mushrooms are not only immune system tonics, they possess antibacterial properties which make them ideal for preventing anthrax infection, according to expert Paul Stametes. A tincture or strong infusion of any shelf fungus with pores can be used, he says. If you prefer to buy your mushrooms, rather than hunt for them, look for reishii (Ganoderma lucidum) or shiitake (Lentinus edodes). Both are adaptogenic, revitalizing, regenerative, and able to directly suppress infection. Side effects, even from large doses, are rare.

Essential oils are antibacterial, and some sources suggest rubbing them inside the nose or spraying the air with these extremely concentrated oils to counter anthrax infections. I don’t. Essential oils are likely to cause a variety of side effects (such as damage to the mucus surfaces of the nose and lungs, and stress to the lymphatic system) that could, paradoxically, make infection more likely and more virulent.

Cayenne and golden seal are antibacterial, but too strong to be used as preventatives. Snuffing hot pepper up your nose would kill anthrax, but at the risk of irritating your nose and respiratory passages, damaging their protective mucus surfaces, and stressing your immune system. I rarely use golden seal, not only because it can cause severe side effects, but also because it is approaching extinction in the wild.

I prefer safer antibacterial herbs such as Echinacea, usnea, or poke root, which not only kill infection, but also help us keep our immune systems strong. That, of course, is the desired result from immunization: to strengthen the immune system and alert it to the possibility of anthrax infection. Anthrax vaccines currently available for animals are not suitable for humans, and one prepared for people is in short supply (and only 93 percent effective). To achieve full immunity, one must have immunization shots every two weeks for six weeks, then again at 6, 12, and 18 months. Given that, herbs seem a superb alternative: they have an extensive history of countering resistant bacteria and strengthening the body’s natural defenses.

Echinacea root is the all-American immune system strengthener. It triggers production of white blood cells, interferon, leukocytes, T-cells, and B-lymphocytes, as well as directly inhibiting the growth of most bacteria and viruses. Peter Holmes, author of Energetics of Western Herbs, cites it as being effective against anthrax. Echinacea tincture is my first choice for countering infection. (Capsules and pills of Echinacea, if used for lengthy periods, may be counter-productive). A dose of the tincture is one drop for every pound of body weight. I take this several times a week as a preventative, several times daily when there is active infection. If I were exposed to anthrax, I would take a dose every hour for at least ten days.

Usnea, a common lichen, is especially rich in a powerful antibacterial bitter called usnic acid (also usinic acid). I use the tincture of Usnea barbata (a dose is 1-2 dropperfuls), but other lichens show similar immune-enhancing and tonifying properties. There are no side effects reported from use of even large amounts of usnea tincture.

Poke root tincture (Phytolacca americana) kicks the immune system into gear incredibly fast. I have seen chronic infection of many years’ standing resolve after only one dose, and acute infection subside in a matter of hours. Poke’s effect seems to be focused on the lymphatic and glandular tissues of the throat and chest, making it the perfect counter to inhaled anthrax, which attacks the lymph nodes around the lungs. Poke is a specific against pneumonia and a protector of the lungs. It contains an antibacterial
alkaloid and a special antiviral protein. It magnifies the effects of Echinacea and they work wonderfully well together.

Poke root is powerful medicine - in fact a potential poison - and the dose is very small. One drop of poke tincture may be taken daily for no more than three months as a counter to possible infection. Those with a positive diagnosis could use a single drop as frequently as six times a day. Alkaloids in poke root tincture can accumulate in the kidneys, making extended use risky, though some people have taken doses of 15 drops a day for a year or more without apparent harm. Caution: You can feel spacey and out of your body when taking poke, especially at higher doses. The first few times, take it after dinner and stay home so you can judge your reaction.

To be assured of a supply of poke tincture, you may need to make it yourself, as it is rarely found for sale. Poke is a common garden and roadside weed of northeastern North America, tall (5-7 feet) with conspicuous dark purple berries and magenta-hued stalks.

Dig roots after hard frost, when tops are dead and yellowed, and tincture, fresh, for six weeks in 100 proof vodka.

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus) is widely considered the single most effective immune tonic and adaptogen in the herbal realm. Safe and inexpensive, it helps the immune system respond quickly to infection and mitigates the effects of stress. Astragalus root is also an excellent ally for building powerful immunity. Both, or either, may be taken daily for extended periods with no ill effects. I throw several pieces of these roots in every pot of soup I cook. Tincture is less effective as a tonic; and I avoid capsules completely.

Ginseng root (Panax quinquefolius or Panax ginseng) is another exceptional ally for the immune system, especially when there is physical or emotional stress. In any form (tincture, tea, extract) it nourishes production of interferon, phagocytes, antibodies, and killer T-cells. So long as you need ginseng, there’s no overdose; if you take it when you don’t need it however, it may produce an unpleasant, jittery, speedy sensation.

But herbs alone are not enough. What we think, and what we consume, are also important parts of building strong immunity. Candace Pert, visiting professor of neuroscience at Rutgers University, has proven that every cell of the body participates in the immune system through an integrated network of chemical, electrical, and hormonal signals. The immune system is a network, she says, which resonates with the vibrations that surround it. It is as affected by emotions as by bacteria, as impacted by thoughts as by drugs.

Long-standing low-level depression, smoldering anger that is never expressed, bitterness and vengeance projected into the future are all known to depress immune functioning. Prayer, affirmations, positive thinking - no matter what you call it - talking lovingly to yourself builds powerful immunity. One of the fiercest old women I know, healer Margo Geiger, taught me to not only think good thoughts but also to unthink immune system stressing phrases like: “This is killing me,” or “I am dying to…” (”Let’s live for it,” she’d say.)

Specialized cells which eliminate bacterial and viral infections are made as needed by the immune system. Richly supply your immune system with nutrients, and it easily counters infection, building healthy white blood cells to kill anthrax and other germs. Starve your immune system and it will falter, leaving your lymph nodes and other tissues open to infection and destruction.

My favorite foods for nourishing the immune system include beets, carrots, garlic, medicinal mushrooms, seaweeds, and dark leafy greens (including nettle infusion). For rapid results, try miso soup with seaweed and wild mushrooms. Try Immune A Go Go Soup from Susun Weed’s book Breast Cancer? Breast Health!

Carotenes strengthen and activate all parts of the immune system, especially the thymus (the “master gland of immunity”). A half-cup of dandelion greens, two cups of nettle infusion, a small baked sweet potato, or two large cooked carrots or beets is a “dose”; but ten times that much can be consumed safely. Repeated doses provide a cumulative effect starting about a week after you begin.

Selenium is a trace mineral with special abilities for building a healthy immune system. Best sources are organic garlic, medicinal mushrooms, and astragalus.

Zinc helps build energetic white blood cells (which eliminate bacterial infections). Best sources are Echinacea, nettles, and seaweed.

The B-vitamin complex, especially B6 (pyridoxine), is critical to immune system health. Best sources are potato skins, broccoli, prunes, and lentils.

Virtually all drugs depress the immune system. This includes caffeine and nicotine, alcohol, prescribed drugs, “recreational” drugs, and vitamin/mineral supplements. For a healthy immune system, eat nourishing food and forgo the pills.

Both light and dark are necessary for a strong immune system. For optimum immune system strength, sleep in a totally dark room at night, and spend at least 15 minutes a day outside without glasses or contacts. Full spectrum sunlight is needed to trigger the production of important immune system components.

Exercise is an excellent way to tonify the immune system. A number of clinical trials have shown regular exercise to be strongly linked to heightened immunity. The emphasis is on regular. It is better to walk one mile four times a week for a month than to jog 16 miles once a month.

In Summary: Strengthen your immune system with a good diet, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, emotional well-being, and a few of the recommended herbal allies of your choice. Always remember to use herbs and herbal preparations simply and safely. Avoid immune compromising substances such as coffee, tobacco and medications. With a strengthened immune system you will not only enjoy better health, but you will be less likely to be susceptible to infection and possible death from bacterial and/or viral invasions. Faith in your body’s ability to protect itself will continue to bolster and reinforce the immune system as your mental well-being improves. Enjoy the upward spiral of health as you follow the path of the Wise Woman Way

1. Prepare your body for meditation

Your physical condition has a tremendous influence on your mind. This is true for your day to day activity, but even more so when it comes to meditation. You can prepare your body for meditation by eating the right food, and by coming to meditation with an empty stomach. Eating the right food, means food which strengthens the body but doesn’t have any adverse affect on the mind. If you consume products that make the mind dull or over-stimulated then it will be much harder to meditate. And whatever your diet is, when you sit down to meditate, it should be on an empty stomach. That is why one of the best times to meditate is in the morning, before you have had your breakfast. Another good time is in the evening, before the evening meal.

2. Prepare Your Mind for Meditation

Just as your body must be prepared, so must your mind. Before you start meditation you must convince yourself, that this period of meditation is your time for personal growth, and that it is important, as important as anything else in your life. When you close your eyes to meditate, you should not jump up to answer the phone, or get ready to leave your meditation due to some slight disturbance. If you convince yourself of the importance of meditation, then your example will also convince others around you and they won’t disturb you during meditation. So, remember your periods of meditation are
one of the most important parts of your daily routine, and treat them as such.

3. Sing Before Meditation

The Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore once said, “God respects me when I work, but He loves me when I sing. ” That explains the place ofsong and music in all the great spiritual traditions. Before you begin meditation you can sing spiritual songs, whose meaning elevates your mind. It doesn’t matter if you have “good” voice or a “bad” voice, sing from the heart, and your mind will go to a point that will be the ideal starting point for your meditation.

4. Sit in a Proper Position

Remember when you were in school and the teacher looked around and saw someone slumping in his or her seat, and she said “sit up straight!” She had a good point; when the back is straight the mind is alert. Sit in a position that will keep the back straight. Sit with cross legs in a simple position, or a half-lotus or a full lotus. In addition to making the mind more alert, these positions help you to rest the various motor organs, and provide a peaceful physical base for your meditation.

In the beginning these positions may seem difficult or uncomfortable, but if you can get used to them, they will help you to deepen your meditation.

5. Follow the Meditation Instructions Exactly

Remember carefully what your meditation instructor taught you and do your best to carry it out, exactly according to the instructions. Don’t experiment and make up your own method. The various systems of meditation are based on thousands of years of experience, so you don’t have to try to figure out what to do. Take advantage of the age-old knowledge of the past, and you will make rapid strides towards a bright future. If you have forgotten any part of your meditation method, go and see your instructor and get a review of your lesson.

6. Be Regular in Your Meditation Practice

This is one of the key factors to success. Meditation works, if you work. If you only do meditation once a month or on whim, when you feel like it, then it will be impossible to be successful and realize the benefits of meditation: mental clarity, inner peace, love for others and spiritual awareness. Make meditation a part of your daily routine. Just as surely as the sun comes up each day, do your meditation without fail. Fix a time for it in the morning and evening and do it on a regular basis. If you get into the habit of doing your practice regularly, then you have taken one of the single most important steps towards success in meditation, and indeed, in your life.

7. Be Patient

“Rome wasn’t built in a day,” and similarly you cannot make miraculous changes in your personality or in your spiritual life in just one sitting of meditation. Don’t be discouraged if you feel that nothing is happening. Meditation is a subtle art, the changes come slowly but surely. Keep on practicing and your meditation is sure to deepen and you will indeed be successful

Recently, someone asked me, what does it mean to be grounded? My response was, let’s look at what it means to be ungrounded first.

To be ungrounded means the soul is not in the body. It means someone is upset, angry, spacey, frustrated, or emotional in some form or another. This person is not experiencing the now. Typically, when we are ungrounded, we are thinking about something else besides what we are doing or being right now. It’s usually experienced in a seemingly negative way, but not always. Sometimes we can just not be here - our soul is off somewhere else.

Think about traffic. How many people are driving around every day thinking about something else and not about their driving? Probably most drivers. This is why we have so many accidents. People are not paying attention to what they are doing. They are not grounded.

There is an easy exercise we all can do at any time, even while driving, that will pull our souls back into our bodies immediately. Anyone trying this exercise may have to do it a few times for it to work, but it will be worth it.

1. Imagine that when you inhale, your breath comes in through the top of your head and stops at your hips.

2. As you exhale, the breath goes down through the center of your legs into the earth and wraps itself around a tree root (or a stone or anything in the center of the earth).

What this does is it automatically yanks your soul into your body. Many have claimed that this has actually calmed them down enough to have drastic effects on their lives. Their lives are calmer because they can live in the now.

Try this for a week and journal about it. See what a difference staying grounded can make in your life

Learning About Herbs
Information on herbs and their uses has been passed down to us in many ways: through stories, in books, set to music, and incorporated into our everyday speech. Learning about herbs is fun, fascinating, and easy to do no matter where you live or what your circumstances. It is an adventure that makes use of all of your senses. Reading about herbal medicine is fascinating, and a great way to learn how others have used plants. But the real authorities are the plants themselves. They speak to us through their smells, tastes, forms, and colors.

Anyone who is willing to take the time to get to know the plants around them will discover a wealth of health-promoting green allies. What stops us? Fear. We fear that we will use the wrong plant. We fear poisoning ourselves. We fear the plants themselves.

These fears are wise. But they need not keep us from using the abundant remedies of nature. A few simple guidelines can protect you and help you make sense of herbal medicine. This series of short articles will offer you easy-to-remember rules for using herbs simply and safely. When you have completed all eight parts of this series, you will be using herbs confidently and successfully to keep yourself and your loved ones whole/healthy/holy.

Survival is a Matter of Taste
Virtually all plants contain poisons. After all, they don’t want to be eaten! Because we have evolved eating plants, we have the capacity to neutralize or remove (through preparation or digestion) their poisons. Not all poisons kill, and even poisons that are deadly often need to be taken in quantities far larger than can easily be obtained from foods (Apple seeds contain a lethal poison but it takes a quart of them to cause death).

Our senses of taste and smell are registered in the part of the brain that maintains respiration and circulation - in other words, the survival center. Plants (but not mushrooms) advertise their poisons by tasting bad or smelling foul. Of the four primary kinds of poisons found in plants -alkaloids, glycosides, resins, and essential oils - the first two always taste bitter or cause a variety of noxious reactions on the oral tissues,
and the last two usually do, especially when removed from the plant or concentrated.
Sometimes the taste of the poison in a plant is hidden by large amounts of sweet-tasting starch. Fortunately, human saliva contains an enzyme that breaks down these carbohydrates, exposing the nasty taste of the poison. Since even tiny amounts of some poisons can have large effects, for safety sake, take your time when tasting.

Safety First
Because our sense of taste protects us against poisonous plants, it is always best to take herbs in a form that allows one to taste them. Consuming just one plant at a time, with as little preparation as possible, gives us the greatest opportunity to taste poisons and is therefore the safest way to use herbs.

One herb at a time is a “simple.” When we ingest a simple herb - raw, cooked as a vegetable, brewed fresh or dried in water as a tea or infusion, steeped in vinegar or honey, dried and used as a condiment - we bring into play several million years of plant wisdom collected in our genes. When we ingest many plants together, or concentrate their natural poisons by tincturing, distilling, or standardizing, we increase the possibility of harm. Powdering herbs and putting them in capsules is one of the most dangerous ways to use them, especially those containing poisons. For ultimate risk, play with essential oils; they are far removed from the plant, very concentrated, and
as little as one-quarter ounce can kill.

Safety Second, Too
In the next installments we will continue to learn how to use herbs simply and safely. We will explore nourishing and tonifying herbs, the difference between fixing disease and promoting health, how to apply the three traditions of healing, and how to take charge of your own health care with the six steps of healing.

Experiment Number One
You will need the following plants, all of which contain poisons that you can taste: a head of lettuce (taste the leaves and the core separately), some black or green tea (unbrewed), a fresh dandelion leaf, strong chamomile tea (steep it overnight), a can of asparagus, some fresh mint, a spoonful of mustard seeds, and a bottle of vanilla extract.

Approach tasting a plant as you would tasting a wine. Begin by inhaling the aroma. Release the bouquet by squeezing the plant until your fingers are moist (or chew briefly and spit into your hand). Do you feel enticed, repelled, or neutral? Does your mouth water? Does your throat clench? Observe how you react to the smell. Does it sting your eyes? Irritate your nasal tissues? Do you want to taste it?

We do not gulp our wine, nor do we merely wet our tongues; for best effect, taste and smell a reasonably large piece, but don’t stuff your mouth. As you chew, move the plant material around in your mouth. Roll it around with your tongue. Make contact with it for a full minute but DO NOT SWALLOW. No, no, spit it upon the ground, or into your hand, or the sink, or wherever you can, but do not swallow. SPIT IT OUT.

What do you feel now? In your stomach? Your throat? Your head and nose? What is your gut feeling? What sensations accompany the taste of this plant?

It is best to wait until the previous taste is completely gone before going on to the next plant. If you are doing advanced work with wild plants, wait at least a day before you use or consume the plant in case you have a delayed reaction to some component.

Experiment Number Two
Taste as in experiment one, but use these inedible (poisonous) parts of common foods: lemon inner rind, apple seeds, rhubarb leaves, lettuce root, the inner soft pit of a peach.

Experiment Number Three
Taste as in experiment one, these poisonous plants (fresh or dried): wormwood leaf, goldenseal root, yellow dock root, Echinacea root, eucalyptus leaf, motherwort leaf.

Experiment Four
Aromatic plants are rich in essential oils. We often use them to season and preserve food. In small quantity, these oils are not harmful, but concentrated, they threaten the liver, kidneys, and life itself. Smell and taste, as in experiment one, as many aromatic plants as you can: thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender, sage, orange peel, cloves, cinnamom, nutmeg. Brew strong teas (steep overnight) of these plants and taste. Can you see,smell, or taste more essential oils? Smell or taste one drop of the extracted essential oil of any of these plants.

Further study

1. What is an alkaloid? Medicinal plants often contain groups of alkaloids. Name seven plants rich in alkaloids (specify the part); then name at least three of the alkaloids in each plant.

2. What are glycosides? Name at least four glycosides and describe the effect each has. Name seven plants rich in glycosides; specify the part of the plant and the kind of glycoside.

3. What are resins? Name four or more plants (specify part) rich in resins.

4. What are essential oils? Name a dozen or more plants rich in essential oils (specify part).

5. What is the difference between a poison and a medicine? Are all drugs poisons?

Advanced work
І Give the botanical name (genus and species) for each plant you named in the further study section.

І Taste a variety of plants that grow around you. Warning: It is possible to experience uncomfortable or harmful effects from this experiment. A book on poisonous plants can reassure you that the plants you taste will not kill you. It is best not to put plants such as poison ivy or poison oak in your mouth. DO NOT TASTE HOUSEPLANTS

Herbal medicine is the medicine of the people. It is simple, safe, effective, and free. Our ancestors knew how to use an enormous variety of plants for health and well-being. Our neighbors around the world continue to use local plants for healing and health maintenance, and you can too.

In your first lesson, you learned how to “listen” to the messages of plant’s tastes. And you discovered that using plants in water bases (teas, infusions, vinegars, soups) - and as simples - allows you to experiment with and explore herbal medicine safely.

In this lesson, we will learn how to make effective water-based herbal remedies and talk more about using simples.

Tea for You?

Teas are a favorite way to consume herbs. Made by brewing a small amount of herbs (typically a teaspoonful to a cup of water) for a short time (generally 1-2 minutes), teas are flavorful, colorful drinks.

Herbs rich in coloring compounds - such as hibiscus, rose hips, calendula, and black tea - make enticing and tasty teas. They may also contain polyphenols, phytochemicals known to help prevent cancer. Since coloring compounds and polyphenols are fairly stable, dried herbs are considered best for teas rich in these.

Herbs rich in volatile oils - such as ginger, chamomile, cinnamon, catnip, mint, lemon balm, lemon grass, lavender, bergamot, and fennel, anise, and cumin seeds - make lovely teas, which are effective in easing spasms, stimulating digestion, eliminating pain, and inducing sleep. Since much of the volatile oils are lost when herbs are dried, fresh herbs are considered best for teas rich in these, but dried herbs can be used with good results.

I enjoy a cup of hot tea with honey. But teas fail to deliver the mineral richness locked into many common herbs. A cup of nettle tea, for instance, contains only 5-10 mg of calcium, while a cup of nettle infusion contains up to 500 mg of calcium. For optimum nutrition, I drink nourishing herbal infusions every day.

Infusion for Me

An infusion is a large amount of herb brewed for a long time. Typically, one ounce by weight (about a cup by volume) of dried herb is placed in a quart jar, which is then filled to the top with boiling water, tightly lidded and allowed to steep for 4-10 hours. After straining, a cup or more is consumed, and the remainder chilled to slow spoilage. Drinking 2-4 cups a day is usual. Since the minerals and other phytochemicals in nourishing herbs are made more accessible by drying, dried herbs are considered best for infusions. (See experiment 2.)

I make my infusions at night before I go to bed and they are ready in the morning. I put my herb in my jar and my water in the pot, and the pot on the fire, then brush my teeth (or sweep the floor) until the kettle whistles. I pour the boiling water up to the rim of the jar, screw on a tight lid, turn off the stove and the light, and go to bed. In the morning, I strain the plant material out, squeezing it well, and drink the liquid. I prefer it iced, unless the morning is frosty. I drink the quart of infusion within 36
hours or until it spoils. Then I use it to water my houseplants, or pour it over my hair after washing as a final rinse, which can be left on.

My favorite herbs for infusion are nettle, oatstraw, red clover, and comfrey leaf, but only one at a time. The tannins in red clover and comfrey make me pucker my lips, so I add a little mint, or bergamot, when I infuse them, just enough to flavor the brew slightly. A little salt in your infusion may make it taste better than honey will.

Having trouble finding herbs in bulk at your local health food store? Try ordering online:

• Mountain Rose Herbs - http://www.mountainroseherbs.com

• Pacific Botanicals - http://www.pacificbotanicals.com

• І Frontier Herbs - http://www.frontierherb.com/

• Garden Medicinals - http://www.gardenmedicinals.com

Simple Messages

When we use simples (one plant at a time), we allow ourselves an intimacy that deepens and strengthens our connections to plants and their green magic. There are lots of interesting plants, and lots of herbalists who maintain that herbal medicine means formulae and combinations of herbs. But I consider herbs as lovers, preferring to have only one in bed with me at a time.

When I use one plant at a time it is much easier for me to discern the effect of that plant. When I use one plant at a time and someone has a bad reaction to the remedy, it is obvious what the source of the distress is, and usually easy to remedy. When I use one plant at a time, I make it easy for my body to communicate with me and tell me what plants it needs for optimum health.

I even go so far as to ally with one plant at a time, usually for at least a year. By narrowing my focus, I actually find that I learn more.

Coming Up

In our next lesson we will learn more about the difference between nourishing, tonifying, stimulating/sedating, and potentially-poisonous plants; how to prepare them; and how to use them. In the following installments we will explore the difference between fixing disease and promoting health, how to apply the three traditions of healing, and how to take charge of your own health care with the six steps of healing.

Experiment Number One

Make and drink a quart of nourishing herbal infusion made with stinging nettle, oatstraw, red clover, raspberry leaf, or comfrey leaf. If you wish, flavor it with mint. On the same day, make a tea from the same herb, using dried herb. Compare and contrast the colors, flavors, and sensations.

Experiment Number Two

Make an infusion of stinging nettle, oatstraw, red clover, raspberry leaf, or comfrey leaf, using one ounce of dried herb as usual. At the same time, make a quart of “brew” using the same herb, but fresh, not dried. To make it fair, use 4 ounces of fresh herb. After one hour of steeping, look at both jars, taste and compare/contrast. Repeat three more times at hourly intervals.

Minerals are released slowly into water. They darken the color of the water and give it a dense, rich taste. Oil-soluble vitamins float to the top and make a thin glaze of swirls.

Experiment Number Three

Buy, or grow, a tasty, aromatic herb, like ginger, peppermint, or rosemary. For this experiment you will need one tablespoon of fresh herb, and one teaspoon of the same herb dried. Place the fresh herb in a cup or mug and the dried herb in another. Fill both to the top with boiling water. After one minute, taste, smell, compare the teas. Wait another minute and compare again. Then wait five minutes and try each one again.

Experiment Number Four

Make a tea with aromatic seeds - anise, caraway, coriander, cumin, fennel, or fenugreek. Use a teaspoon of seeds in a cup of water. At the same time, brew some using a tablespoon of seeds per cup. After a minute, taste, smell, contrast. Repeat in five minutes, then in thirty minutes, then after an hour, then after four hours. Teas and infusions of dried seeds are almost the same.

Further Study

1. Drink 2-4 cups of nourishing herbal infusion for a month and see if your health changes in any way. Best if you don’t drink coffee or tea during this month.

2. Choose a green ally to focus on this year.

3. Read Healing Power of Minerals by Paul Bergner.

4. Read about stinging nettle and oatstraw in my book Healing Wise.

5. Write out the botanical names of the herbs you used in making your teas and your infusions.

Advanced Work

• Learn more about essential oils in plants. Grow several plants rich in essential oils.

• Learn more about tannins. Make an oakbark infusion.

• If you want to be your own herbal expert then you may want to start a correspondence course! See www.susunweed.com for information on courses available.

Water is something we all have easy access to and tend to take for granted, but it can be a convenient, inexpensive way to make ourselves feel better.

Try this invigorating treatment to help banish or ease the symptoms of colds, pneumonia, and bronchitis. After a hot bath or shower, dip a terry washcloth or towel into cold water, about 50-60 degrees F. Wrap the cloth around your fist and use it to rub your other arm vigorously, starting at the fingers and working up to your shoulder. Switch the cloth to your other fist and repeat the rubbing on your opposite arm. Then move on to your feet, legs, abdomen and chest. Dry off with a towel, using the same vigorous movements. Skin should be pink, and you should feel totally refreshed.

An extra benefit of this treatment is the exfoliating of the top layer of dull, dead skin cells, which will make you look as well as feel better! To improve circulation and increase the exfoliation benefit, add sea-salt to the cloth as you rub.

The water from your tap can also be used to treat insomnia, menopausal hot flashes, and agitation. For these conditions, try a ‘neutral’ bath, immersing yourself in a tub of water slightly below body temperature. Soak for about 20 minutes, adding water occasionally to maintain the temperature, if necessary

Our circulatory system is made up of a complex web of arteries and veins. Our arteries carry oxygen rich blood to the cells of our bodies, while the veins are designed to pump oxygen poor blood back to the heart. This is accomplished through a series of one-way valves that do not allow blood to flow backwards into the vein. When someone suffers from varicose veins, the one-way valves of their veins do not close adequately, resulting in the inefficient transport of blood back to the heart. This causes the blood to flow backward within the vein, creating pressure and causing the vein to become swollen and distended.

While rather benign, this health condition affects about 15% of all adults worldwide. Most people recognize varicose veins because of their knotted, twisted, swollen and often bluish of these veins. In addition to any cosmetic concerns they may pose, these veins can cause discomfort in the form of dull nagging aches and pains, night cramps, ankle swelling, feelings of burning or leg fatigue after prolonged standing.

There are a number of factors that play a part in the development of varicose veins including heredity, gender, lifestyle, occupation and age. They are also known to form during pregnancy due to the dilating effect progesterone has on the veins. Because they are associated with lack of circulation, the formation of varicose veins is more common in people who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time, habitually sit with their legs crossed and those who lack regular exercise.

Recommendations For Wellness

Avoid standing for prolonged periods of time. If this is unavoidable, move your legs often. Stretching and flexing your ankle will work to pump the blood out of your legs and get it circulating again.

If you find yourself sitting for extended periods of time, get up and move around every 35 to 45 minutes.

Take regular walks to help exercise the muscles of the legs and increase blood flow.

Avoid clothing that may restrict blood flow.

Keep your weight down. This can help to reduce pressure on your legs.

To help prevent leg and ankle swelling, reduce your salt intake.

Elevate your legs whenever possible especially when sitting.

Topically, witch hazel can be applied to the legs to ease discomfort.

Butcher’s broom has historically been used when dealing with circulatory ailments such as varicose veins.

Supplements such as ginkgo biloba, gotu kola or capsicum have been shown to improve circulation.

Coenzyme Q10 also improved tissue oxygenation and increases circulation.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids and rutin can help this condition by reducing blood clotting tendencies, promoting healing and helping to strengthen the blood vessels.

White oak bark can be used to help reduce inflammation of the veins as well as to tighten tissues and strengthen blood vessels.

Essential fatty acids such as omega 3 or flax seed oil can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with varicose veins.

© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer 2004. All rights reserved.

Free your mind, body, and spirit naturally at SoulHealer.com

Make a decision today to place your intuitive vision upon canvas. This deeply meditative experience will have profound healing properties upon your spirit and physical body. Technical artistic skill is not essential to the process. You simply need to trust your own heart and begin to paint.

When you pick up a brush and hold it in your fingers, you will at first feel a combination of emotions. You might experience excitement, anticipation and thrill combined with the fear of judging yourself and abilities. As emotions emerge, spend a few moments with each emotion. Listen to your body. Examine how your body physically feels. Then, put your brush, paint and canvas to work as you dip into the hues of your intuition. Allow your hand to guide you and you will find your own correct use of color and artistic style.

Begin to fill your canvas with paint. Allow your brush to glide through the wet mixture as if your own body were present upon the canvas. Close your eyes if you find yourself feeling restrained. And, have fun.

As you practice this procedure, you will find your self walking toward a spectrum of sensations. Be present with each thought, memory and dream that drifts into your spirit. Intuitive insights will be the payoff.

As an intuitive and artist, I use the creation of art as a tool to heal and enhance my own being. And, as a spiritual and inspiration teacher and guide, I ask all of my students to paint on a regular basis. The end product is not the function of the artistic process. The process is the purpose of the process, just as a life well lived is the purpose of a well lived life.

During my own evolution as an artist and spiritual teacher, the artistic process became the avenue of which intuitive and spiritual guides spoke with me. And today, the very same guides reach out to those who view and purchase my artwork. They speak through color, image and mood. They share emotions and pleasure as they inspire more and more individuals to find joy in life.

I encourage the use of the simple tools of brush, canvas and paint to be used as a vehicle of personal healing and spiritual development. Through such effortless work intrinsic attributes will flourish and new curing sensations will emerge and healing will begin.

How Do I Start?

• Purchase inexpensive materials including paint brushes of different sizes, canvases ranging from 2 to 4 foot in size, and acrylic paint.
• Prepare a comfortable and private work environment.
• Dress as if you don’t care who sees you.
• Place lovely music while you work.
• Find paper towels and clean water for clean up.
• Dim any artificial light.
• Dip brushes in paint and begin to slosh, slide, dab and stroke your canvas.
• Allow your arm to relax and be free to move in big or small movements.
• Mix colors and watch for results.
• Work while it is fun.
• Stop working when you want to stop.
• Clean up your work area.
• Allow your paint to dry.
• Spend time looking at your art.
• Pretend you are peering into clouds.
• Look for images.
• Begin again when you feel ready.
• Using your paint and brush, attempt to place upon your canvas the images you see.
• Like a good shampoo, repeat as needed

Acute bronchitis is one of the most common diagnoses made by primary care physicians. It is a condition of the upper respiratory tract where the mucus lining of the bronchial tubes, the large delicate tubes in the lungs, become inflamed.

Bronchitis usually develops rapidly and lasts fewer than 2 to 3 weeks and is characterized by a painful and persistent cough. At first, a dry hacking cough is present. After a few hours or days, the cough turns into a loose cough that produces thick mucous. Sufferers may find that they begin to cough up small amounts of thick green or yellow-green mucus or phlegm.

In most cases, acute bronchitis stems from a cold, the flu or a sore throat, where the infection spreads into the lungs. Thus, bronchitis is seen more often in the winter months than at other times of the year. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after an upper respiratory tract infection and can include a sore throat, runny nose, chills, fever and back or muscle pain. Breathing through congested airways can also produce a wheezing sound. Pain below the sternum or breastbone may be experienced as well.

Bronchitis, however, can also result from inhaling the fumes from acids, solvents, cigarettes or other environmental toxins. These too can irritate the mucus membranes of the bronchial tubes and cause inflammation. It can also be brought on by food allergies as well as environmental allergies to substances such as mold, pollen or dust.

Bronchitis can be particularly dangerous for elderly and those with compromised immune systems. If left unchecked, acute bronchitis can get worse or turn into pneumonia.

Recommendations For Wellness

Eating a diet high in fatty acids such as those found in fish, or supplementing with Omega 3 oil has been shown to reduce both the number and duration of reoccurrences of bronchitis.

• Eliminate dairy products. Dairy products are believed to increase mucus production in the body.

• If you are exposed to environmental toxins, supplementation with Antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E and selenium) may protect you against free radical damage and reduce the risk of developing chronic bronchitis.

• Reduce your exposure to environmental toxins including second hand smoke whenever possible.

• Incorporate herbal supplements such as fenugreek and thyme.

Fenugreek contains mucilagins which are known for soothing and relaxing inflamed tissues, while thyme has antiseptic qualities which are ideal for treating infections of the respiratory system. Thyme is also great for relieving chronic coughing and muscle spasms.

Lobelia has a long history for relaxing respiratory muscles and reducing spasmodic coughing. It can also be used as an expectorant, where it helps to expel phlegm from the lungs, thus relieving congestion that is typically related to bronchitis. Lobelia should be used cautiously, because it may cause nausea and vomiting.

Red clover is known to calm bronchitis related coughs and relieve sore throats as well. Its antispasmodic properties are a good sedative to relax the muscle cramping and nervous exhaustion that can be associated with bronchitis.

If you have a dry cough, herbs such as mullein, marshmallow root or slippery elm can be taken to sooth irritated tissues.

Vitamin C has been shown to decrease the duration and severity of a cold, thus helping reduce your risk of contracting bronchitis.

Echinacea can be taken to help boost the body’s immune system and help fight off infection.

Eucalyptus oil can be applied externally to the chest to help to expel mucus and fortify the respiratory system

Pleasant and inexpensive. Not a cure-all by any means but a good start. One to put on your table that is pleasant to eat as well. An herb of many talents, Parsley. That sprig of green that I see so many leave on their plate in restaurants.

This herb supplies important vitamins and minerals, for instance, just ј cup of fresh organic parsley provides a third of your daily vitamin C requirement. It’s high vitamin C and A content also helps fight cancer. Parsley ranks higher than most vegetable in bistidine an amino acid that inhibits tumors. In addition, parsley is an excellent source of potassium, which is important in lowering blood pressure. Also supplies folic acid, which helps prevent cardiovascular disease. It also contains calcium, manganese and iron.

Is it any wonder that a Mediterranean diet is one of the known healthy diets? The average Mediterranean inhabitant eats lots of parsley in a lot of different dishes.

The Medieval German herbalist St Hildegard of Bingen prescribed parsley wine to improve blood circulation. It was believed to help heart conditions. To make parsley wine, combine 10 - 12 large sprigs of parsley with 1 quart of red or white wine and 2 teaspoons of white-wine vinegar. Boil for 10 minutes then add 9 ounces of honey. Strain the mixture and pour into bottles. Take 1 Tbsp. Three times a day is said to keep the blood circulating.

WARNING: If you are taking blood pressure medications do Not drink parsley wine as your blood pressure may go too low.

Tips:

• Parsley contains essential oils; the most important one, apiole, is a kidney stimulant. Because these essential oils can stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women should avoid eating large quantities of it. BUT, after the baby is born, parsley can help tone the uterus and promote lactation.

• Don’t cook parsley, because heat destroys its valuable vitamins and minerals. To retain parsley’s flavor, chop the herb just before using and add it to hot foods at the last minute.

• Avoid dried parsley, it is far less tasty and less healthful than the fresh herb.

• Try the flat leaf variety, also called Italian parsley, It has more nutrients and a better flavor than curly parsley.

• Add parsley to compliment a dish, such as potatoes, smoked salmon, trout, poultry, pasta and vegetables.

• Freeze fresh parsley to save preparation time in the kitchen. Wash, zip seal plastic bag. You can then remove the amount you need with each recipe.

• To keep parsley fresh, sprinkle it with water, wrapping it in paper towels and refrigerating it in a plastic bag. Or place parsley stems in a glass of water, like a bunch or flowers, and refrigerate