Friday, December 31, 2010
Happy New Year 01/01/2011
Cheers to all that went RIGHT in 2010, to all that I learned from what went wrong in 2010 and here's to building upon those things in 2011 to acheive our dreams! Happy New Year Everyone!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Our tea's NOW Buy one Get one!
615-321-4040... Also Tea's BOGO! We have over 35 different kinds of green, white, honeybush, rooibos and herbal blends made just taste great while assisting with ailments!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Perfume oils Available by Kiki's Garden.. offered at Symmetry
*Anointing*
Use for rituals, ritual and altar tools, and for anointing candles and the self for rituals. A general oil blend for all magickal purposes. Contains sandalwood, cedarwood, orange, and lemon oils.
*Aunt Flo’s Remedy*
It’s Mothers Nature’s Midol! This aromatherapeutic oil blend will help ease cramps and soothe mood swings. Add a few drops to a bath or rub on your belly! Contains chamomile herbs; rosemary, coconut, frankincense, and peppermint oils.
*Citrus ‘N’ Cream*
Let’s put the lime in the coconut at the Copa Cabana! A creamy blend of vanilla, almond, orange. lime, and lemongrass oils to make a delicious and refreshing fragrance. A scent that will bring you to a tropical, sunny place.
*Come and See Me*
A blend that just screams "I'm humming with loving and romantic energies!" Worn to attract the opposite sex. Contains patchouli and cinnamon essential oils.
*Dessert de Paris*
A decadent and luscious blend of almond, tonka, coconut, and vanilla oils that will make you feel like you are indulging in a delicious dessert from a café in the Marais. With spiritual connections to communication and the moon, use this scent for romance and inspiration.
*Dude Oil*
Strong enough even for your hippie boyfriend. An earthy blend to replace any inklings for Old Spice and Irish Springs, and may even remind you of Grandpa. Contains pine, cedarwood, rosewood, tea tree, and fir needle oils.
*Earth Essence*
Feel like a sprite in the forest! This is an earthy blend that will remind you of the forest after a fresh rainfall. Excellent for working with the element of earth and animals. Contains fir needle, patchouli, honeysuckle and oakmoss oils.
*Faerie Flower Garden*
A floral scent that will remind you of a sunny garden at Midsummer. These are wild flower fragrances said to attract faeries. Anoint silver coins, or blend with rosemary and carry in a sachet. Even better: wear to feel like a faerie of the forest! Contains lilac, lily of the valley, oakmoss, and calendula petal.
*Fast Money*
A great blend for anointing on green candles and dollar bills. Great when gambling, great for the register at your business, great for your wallet. And yes, Anna Riva, you can use it for bingo, too. Contains patchouli, cedarwood, vetivert, and ginger oils.
*Goddess Oil*
To connect you with the powers of the moon, fertility, psychic abilities, and dreams. A divine and exotic fragrance that will make you feel like a Goddess! Excellent for esbat work and Goddess magick. Contains sandalwood, frankincense, lemongrass, rose, jasmine, and amber.
*Habit Halter Blend*
Kicking a nasty habit? This blend of essential oils is believed to assist in halting habits. Carry this with you instead of a cigarette! This plucky scent contains ylang ylang, eucalyptus, thyme, rosemary, and frankincense oils.
*Healing Blend*
Bring that spring back into your step with this comforting blend of cedarwood, fir needle, lavender, and sandalwood oils. This blend will bring healing energies into your life. Anoint on blue candles and wear for healing energies.
*Kiki’s Paradise Blend*
Drift into paradise with this exotic blend of orange, heliotrope, coconut and gardenia oils. The perfect balance of sun energies for protection and vitality and moon energies for gentleness and psychic abilities. Kiki's favorite blend to wear while working as an intuitive reader.
*Love Oil*
Looking to bring love and romance into your life? Anoint on pink or red candles, or wear to feel loving energies through the day. Smells wonderful in an oil burner! Contains vanilla, frangipani, ylang ylang, and rose oils.
*Masterpiece*
This potent blend will draw out the creativity and inspiration in you. Sniff out of the box with this scent for success in creative projects. It's like muse in a bottle. Anoint on orange and yellow candles, wear before a test or while playing music. Contains almond, rosemary, and lemongrass.
*Peace & Tranquility*
For feeling calm, serenity, and peace. This highly floral scent can be worn, anointed on crystals and candles, or uses on an oil burner. Contains gardenia, lilac, lily of the valley, and lavender oils.
*Priestess Blend*
A beautiful, exotic blend for the lady who wants to call on the inner priestess. Excellent for working with the element of water, intuition, and the Goddess. Contains sandalwood, gardenia, tonka, and benzoin oils.
*Protection*
A blend to help you feel secure, grounded, and protected. Anoint on black candles or wear to feel white light energy all around you. Contains dragon's blood, rose, and lime oils.
*Prosperity*
A blend for attracting abundance and prosperity into your life. Excellent for prosperity and money magick. Contains honeysuckle, oakmoss, vetiver, fir needle, patchouli and basil oils. Anoint on green candles or a green crystal to draw energies of abundance and prosperity to you.
*Psychic & Intuition*
Feeling like you need to jumpstart your sixth sense? This oil blend will do just that. A stirring blend that will open up your third eye and assist in your psychic abilities. Wear, anoint on purple candles, or use in an oil burner. Contains heliotrope, peppermint, and lemongrass oils.
*Sexy Kitten Oil*
Meow! Down kitty! This fragrance incorporates oils associated with love, lust, and sensuality. Wear this aphrodisiac blend to turn heads, feel sexy and beautiful. Contains ylang ylang, cinnamon, ginger, coconut, vanilla, sandalwood, jasmine, and fragipani.
*Sweet Dreams Oil*
Forget about counting sheep! This perfect blend will help soothe your way into dreamland. A mixture of lavender, peppermint, and jasmine oils that will help relax you, allow you to rest and sleep better, and give you sweet dreams. Anoint on blue candles, wear before going to sleep or burn in an oil burner!
*Troll Repellent*
Ever feel like the sketchiest people are bugging you? Have a boss that resembles a troll more than a person? This banishing blend keeps negative energies out and away from you and your well-being. Contains vetivert, basil, rose, and frankincense oils.
****CUSTOM BLENDS ARE AVAILABLE!***
Use for rituals, ritual and altar tools, and for anointing candles and the self for rituals. A general oil blend for all magickal purposes. Contains sandalwood, cedarwood, orange, and lemon oils.
*Aunt Flo’s Remedy*
It’s Mothers Nature’s Midol! This aromatherapeutic oil blend will help ease cramps and soothe mood swings. Add a few drops to a bath or rub on your belly! Contains chamomile herbs; rosemary, coconut, frankincense, and peppermint oils.
*Citrus ‘N’ Cream*
Let’s put the lime in the coconut at the Copa Cabana! A creamy blend of vanilla, almond, orange. lime, and lemongrass oils to make a delicious and refreshing fragrance. A scent that will bring you to a tropical, sunny place.
*Come and See Me*
A blend that just screams "I'm humming with loving and romantic energies!" Worn to attract the opposite sex. Contains patchouli and cinnamon essential oils.
*Dessert de Paris*
A decadent and luscious blend of almond, tonka, coconut, and vanilla oils that will make you feel like you are indulging in a delicious dessert from a café in the Marais. With spiritual connections to communication and the moon, use this scent for romance and inspiration.
*Dude Oil*
Strong enough even for your hippie boyfriend. An earthy blend to replace any inklings for Old Spice and Irish Springs, and may even remind you of Grandpa. Contains pine, cedarwood, rosewood, tea tree, and fir needle oils.
*Earth Essence*
Feel like a sprite in the forest! This is an earthy blend that will remind you of the forest after a fresh rainfall. Excellent for working with the element of earth and animals. Contains fir needle, patchouli, honeysuckle and oakmoss oils.
*Faerie Flower Garden*
A floral scent that will remind you of a sunny garden at Midsummer. These are wild flower fragrances said to attract faeries. Anoint silver coins, or blend with rosemary and carry in a sachet. Even better: wear to feel like a faerie of the forest! Contains lilac, lily of the valley, oakmoss, and calendula petal.
*Fast Money*
A great blend for anointing on green candles and dollar bills. Great when gambling, great for the register at your business, great for your wallet. And yes, Anna Riva, you can use it for bingo, too. Contains patchouli, cedarwood, vetivert, and ginger oils.
*Goddess Oil*
To connect you with the powers of the moon, fertility, psychic abilities, and dreams. A divine and exotic fragrance that will make you feel like a Goddess! Excellent for esbat work and Goddess magick. Contains sandalwood, frankincense, lemongrass, rose, jasmine, and amber.
*Habit Halter Blend*
Kicking a nasty habit? This blend of essential oils is believed to assist in halting habits. Carry this with you instead of a cigarette! This plucky scent contains ylang ylang, eucalyptus, thyme, rosemary, and frankincense oils.
*Healing Blend*
Bring that spring back into your step with this comforting blend of cedarwood, fir needle, lavender, and sandalwood oils. This blend will bring healing energies into your life. Anoint on blue candles and wear for healing energies.
*Kiki’s Paradise Blend*
Drift into paradise with this exotic blend of orange, heliotrope, coconut and gardenia oils. The perfect balance of sun energies for protection and vitality and moon energies for gentleness and psychic abilities. Kiki's favorite blend to wear while working as an intuitive reader.
*Love Oil*
Looking to bring love and romance into your life? Anoint on pink or red candles, or wear to feel loving energies through the day. Smells wonderful in an oil burner! Contains vanilla, frangipani, ylang ylang, and rose oils.
*Masterpiece*
This potent blend will draw out the creativity and inspiration in you. Sniff out of the box with this scent for success in creative projects. It's like muse in a bottle. Anoint on orange and yellow candles, wear before a test or while playing music. Contains almond, rosemary, and lemongrass.
*Peace & Tranquility*
For feeling calm, serenity, and peace. This highly floral scent can be worn, anointed on crystals and candles, or uses on an oil burner. Contains gardenia, lilac, lily of the valley, and lavender oils.
*Priestess Blend*
A beautiful, exotic blend for the lady who wants to call on the inner priestess. Excellent for working with the element of water, intuition, and the Goddess. Contains sandalwood, gardenia, tonka, and benzoin oils.
*Protection*
A blend to help you feel secure, grounded, and protected. Anoint on black candles or wear to feel white light energy all around you. Contains dragon's blood, rose, and lime oils.
*Prosperity*
A blend for attracting abundance and prosperity into your life. Excellent for prosperity and money magick. Contains honeysuckle, oakmoss, vetiver, fir needle, patchouli and basil oils. Anoint on green candles or a green crystal to draw energies of abundance and prosperity to you.
*Psychic & Intuition*
Feeling like you need to jumpstart your sixth sense? This oil blend will do just that. A stirring blend that will open up your third eye and assist in your psychic abilities. Wear, anoint on purple candles, or use in an oil burner. Contains heliotrope, peppermint, and lemongrass oils.
*Sexy Kitten Oil*
Meow! Down kitty! This fragrance incorporates oils associated with love, lust, and sensuality. Wear this aphrodisiac blend to turn heads, feel sexy and beautiful. Contains ylang ylang, cinnamon, ginger, coconut, vanilla, sandalwood, jasmine, and fragipani.
*Sweet Dreams Oil*
Forget about counting sheep! This perfect blend will help soothe your way into dreamland. A mixture of lavender, peppermint, and jasmine oils that will help relax you, allow you to rest and sleep better, and give you sweet dreams. Anoint on blue candles, wear before going to sleep or burn in an oil burner!
*Troll Repellent*
Ever feel like the sketchiest people are bugging you? Have a boss that resembles a troll more than a person? This banishing blend keeps negative energies out and away from you and your well-being. Contains vetivert, basil, rose, and frankincense oils.
****CUSTOM BLENDS ARE AVAILABLE!***
Oils available at Symmetry and their properties
Essential Oil General Description and Uses Safety Precautions
Anise – (pimpinella anisum) Sweet, licorice like scent often used during the hunting season to mask the human scent. Also applied to bait to attract fish. Cheering, euphoric, energizing, sense enhancing, antibacterical, coughs, deodorant, menopause. Parts used: seed pod Dilute well before use. Do not use during pregnancy.
Bergamot – (citrus bergamia) Citrusy, fresh, woodsy scent. Cheering, concentration, aggression, confidence, grief, nervous tension and stress. Said to help with the stress of Parkinson’s Disease and PMS moodiness. Good for withdrawals. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Do not expose applied area of skin to direct sunlight or
tanning bed for 24 hours.
Cedarwood – (cedrus atlantica) Dry, sweet, woodsy balsamic scent. Balancing, grounding and strengthening. Often used to promote self-control and to balance spirituality. Possible uses: acne, dry hair, rheumatism, oily skin, immunity booster. Parts used: wood Avoid during pregnancy. May irritate extra sensitive skin.
Cinnamon Leaf – (cinnamomum zeylancium) Hot, spicy scent — richer in aroma than ground cinnamon. Invigorating,
refreshing, warming, aphrodisiac properties. Often used by those with low blood pressure. Good for exhaustion & fatigue. Antifungal. Parts used: leaf. Avoid if you have high blood pressure. Dilute well before use.
Citronella – (cymbopogon nardus) Slightly fruity, fresh, lemony scent. An oil that is known to be refreshing, stimulating, soothing & vitalizing. Most popular for being a powerful insect repellent. Antiseptic properties,
good when you have a cold. Parts used: grass. Avoid during pregnancy.
Clary Sage – (salvia sclarea) Earthy, herbaceous & slightly fruity scent. Known as the “woman’s oil.” Good for use as an antidepressant, for PMS and Menopause. Also good for fatigue, fear & stress. Is often used to help promote vivid dreaming. Parts used: flowering tops, herb. Avoid with a history of breast or ovarian cysts or estrogen-dependent cancer. Do not overuse while drinking alcohol.
Clove Bud – (eugenia caryophyllata) Spicy, warming, rich but slightly bitter scent. Possible uses: memory loss, stimulating, energizing, warming. Also known for use as an antiseptic, for sprains, strains and is often used (in part) by dentists for toothache. Parts used: flower buds. A possible mucous membrane irritant. Not to be used by alcoholics, haemophiliacs or those with prostate cancer.
Cypress – (cupressus sempervirens) Fresh, slightly woody aroma. Helpful with aggression, nervous tension, stress & restlessness. Said to be good for hot flashes, menopause and bruising as well as a circulatory stimulant. Parts used: leaves (needles), twigs. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of estrogen-dependant cancer. Avoid
constant use with high blood pressure.
Eucalyptus – (eucalyptus globulus) Clean, fresh, medicinal scent. A balancing, cooling & stimulating oil often used with colds, coughs, muscular fatigue & sinusitis. Also helpful when you have bronchitis, the flu or slight fever. Parts used: leaves & twigs. Avoid with a history of epilepsy or if you have using homeopathic remedies.
Do NOT take internally — toxic.
Fir Needle – (Abies alba) Woody, earthy, fresh scent. Known for stimulating circulation. Often used for muscle pain, arthritis & rheumatism as well as elevating the emotions and helping with stress. Parts used: leaves (needles), twigs. Dilute well before use.
Frankincense – (Boswellia carterii) Spicy, woody, fruity & fresh smell. For the mind, frankincense is often used for anxiety, exhaustion and for focus. Reported to help with scars and wrinkles. Has been used in history for blessing and consecration. Parts used: resin. Avoid during pregnancy. Regarded as generally safe.
Geranium – (Pelargonium graveolens) Floral but sweet smell with fruity undertones. Often used for nerves, stress and for relaxed, intense focus (such as self-hypnosis). Has been known to calm those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and Muscular Dystrophy. Parts used: flowers, leaves, stalks. Avoid if a history of estrogen-dependant cancer or hypoglycemia.
Ginger – (Zingiber officinale) Smoky, spicy, woody scent. For the mind, used for memory loss and to anchor the emotions. Good for nausea, motion sickness, aches & sprains and the nausea associated with migraine headaches. Parts used: roots (stems). May irritate extra-sensitive skin. Dilute well before use.
Jasmine Absolute – (Jasminum officinalis) Exotic, floral, rich, sweet scent. Used often in the perfume industry. Has relaxing, sedative properties and is said to be an aphrodisiac. Also good as an antidepressant, for PMS & Menopause. Parts used: flowers Avoid during pregnancy. Extended use has narcotic-like properties.
Juniper Berry – (juniperus communis) Crisp, sweet & herbaceous with a fruity note. Often used for gout, jet lag and hangovers as well as for memory loss, clearing the mind and exhaustion. Said to have detoxifying and toning properties. Parts used: berries Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid if a history of kidney disease or high blood pressure.
Lavender – (lavandula officinalis) Floral, fresh, light, herbaceous scent. Is said to bring about love and peace. Good for insect bites, to calm the nerves, help with sleeping — soothing & relaxing. Also good for burns, bruises, itching and headaches. Parts used: flowering tops. Avoid during first trimester of pregnancy.
Lemon – (citrus limonum) Rich, fresh smell similar to fresh lemon rinds. Used to uplift the spirits as it is balancing, cheering and refreshing. Often used to reduce warts, for fainting and hayfever. Good ingredient in cleaning and dish washing. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Do not expose applied area of skin to direct sunlight or tanning bed for 24 hours.
Lemon Eucalyptus – (eucalyptus citriodora) Sweet, lemony smell with a woody note. Known to be calming and purifying. Reported by the CDC to be a good, natural substitution for DEET in combating mosquitoes. Contains some of the same properties as regular eucalyptus. Parts used: leaves, twigs. Dilute before use.
Lemongrass – (cymbopogon citratus) Fresh, lemony, grassy scent. For the mind, used for irritability, mental fatigue, stress & nervous exhaustion. Often used as a mild insect repellent, for light cases of athlete’s foot
and reported to be good for cellulite. Parts used: grass, leaves. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of
high blood pressure.
Lime – (citrus aurantifolia) Green, fresh, citrusy, sweet scent. Stimulating, uplifting & cheering, lime is know for helping raise the spirits and makes a good antidepressant. Good for skin toning as an astringent and is said to help with dandruff. Parts used: peel of fruit. Mildly phototoxic. Try to avoid direct exposure to sunlight where lime has been used on the skin.
Palmarosa – (cymbopogon martini)A floral, grassy, rose-like scent. Good for creativity, aggression & anxiety. Said to work quite well for wrinkles, dermatitis, hair loss & PMS symptoms. Associated with healing and love. Parts used: whole plant Avoid with a history of high blood pressure. Essential Oil General Description and Uses Safety Precautions
Patchouli – (pogostemon cablin) Rich, earthy, woody aroma. Known as a general aphrodisiac. Good for relaxation as well as concentration. Said to be good for wrinkles, acne, dandruff and athlete’s foot. Best known as the incense commonly used in the 1960’s. Parts used: leaves Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally.
Peppermint – (mentha piperita) Minty, strong peppermint candy smell. Cooling, refreshing, revitalizing and stimulating. Is good for headaches, nausea & jet lag. Mixed in base oils or lotions, is good for muscular aches and rheumatoid arthritis. Parts used: whole plant Avoid during pregnancy or a history of high blood pressure. Use in small amounts. Avoid contact with eyes.
Pink Grapefruit – (citrus paradisi) Citrusy scent, similar to a grapefruit rind. A good uplifting oil — good for concentration and to promote happy thoughts. Reported to be good for migraines, hangovers, PMS symptoms & hair loss as well as being antibacterial. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Avoid contact with the sun or
tanning beds after using oil on skin.
Ravensara – (ravensara aromatica) Slightly medicinal, yet, a fruity, candy-like smell. Mind clearing and relaxing. Best known for it antiviral properties and is often used as an air purifier during the flu season. Other properties include antibiotic and anti-infectious. Parts used: leaves. Do not take internally.
Rosemary – (rosmarinus officinalis) Sweet, fresh, herb-like, medicinal scent. Good for grief and fatigue as well as clearing out the mind. Often used as an antiviral, a decongestant and for muscular aches. Also known as an immunity stimulant. Parts used: leaves. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of high blood pressure or epilepsy.
Rosewood – (aniba rosaeodora) Sweet, woody and fruity with a floral scent. Good for mild cases of depression and
clearing out confusion. Often used for headaches, PMS, scars, sensitive skin and stretch marks. Parts used: wood, twigs. Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally.
Sandalwood – (santalum album) Woodsy, balsamic, deep perfume-like scent. Used to center the thoughts and also used in meditation and as an aphrodisiac. Known for being used for wrinkles, chapped skin, dry hair and dandruff. Parts used: wood. Do not take internally.
Spearmint – (mentha spicata) Fresh, minty, sweet smell — less potent than peppermint. Often used for sniffing during times of morning sickness. Also good for stimulating and reviving as well as asthma, headache and nausea. Parts used: leaves. Use in small amounts. Large amounts may irritate mucous membranes.
Sweet Orange – (citrus sinensis) Citrusy, sweet, strong scent like orange peels. Good antidepressant and uplifting oil. Has been used for drug withdrawal symptoms, stress and for its slight sedative properties. Often associated with joy, luck and money. Parts used: peel of fruit. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
Tangerine – (citrus reticulata) Bright, deep citrusy smell like tangerine peels. Relaxing, cheering & soothing. Astringent, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antidepressant. Parts used: peel of fruit. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
Tea Tree – (melaleuca alternifolia) An herbaceous, green, earthy scent — slightly medicinal. The scent has cleansing and cooling properties. Has been used for centuries for burns, bug bites, scrapes and cuts. Also good for athlete’s foot, blisters, boils and sunburns. Parts used: leaves, twigs. Do not take internally. Can be used neat (undiluted) in small amounts on many people. Test patch first.
White Camphor – (cinnamonum camphora) Fresh, vibrant, cool smell. Clarifying to the mind as well as cooling. Good for helping to think clearly and logically. Also known to help with colds, coughs, flu and as a decongestant. Parts used: wood Avoid if pregnant or epileptic. May counteract certain homeopathic remedies.
Ylang-Ylang – (cananga odorata) Floral, slightly fruity, delicate, perfume-like scent. Promotes euphoria, relaxation and is often thought of as an aphrodisiac. Lowers blood pressure. Good for its sedative properties and for shock. Parts used: flowers. Avoid if a history of apnea or low blood pressure.
Special Oil Blends made Locally in Nashville by Green Pergola http://www.greenpergola.com/
Cold & Flu Season – (Green Pergola blend) (ravensara, cajeput, eucalyptus, bergamot) use in home, car or office during the cold & flu season to help protect from viral infections. Do not take internally. Avoid if epileptic.
Prayer & Meditation – (Green Pergola blend) (sandalwood, frankincense, myrrh, clove, cedarwood atlas) a combination of oils used for centuries for prayer. spirituality & meditation. Avoid use on skin during pregnancy.
Sore Muscles – (Green Pergola blend) (sweet marjoram, cypress, coriander, peppermint, lavender, lemongrass) useful for sore, overworked muscles and arthritis. Avoid during pregnancy. Keep away from eyes.
Headache Relief – (Green Pergola blend) (peppermint, ginger, lavender, grapefruit) this combination is good for both tension and migraine headaches & the nausea associated with migraines. Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally. Dilute well.
Study & Concentration – (Green Pergola blend) (basil, black pepper, clove, rosemary, lime) this combination of oils aids in concentration and mental thought – good for students & professionals. Avoid skin contact during pregnancy or a history of estrogen-dependent cancer.
Calm & Relaxed – (Green Pergola blend) (lavender, chamomile, clary sage, palmarosa, mandarin) a balanced blend of oils that leave you feeling calm, relaxed and may aid in a better nights sleep. Use with caution on skin if a history of breast or ovarian cysts.
Blemish & Boo-Boo – (Green Pergola blend) (lavender, tea tree, palmarosa, patchouli, lemongrass) apply directly to insect bites, small cuts & scratches as well as acne blemishes. Do not apply to large wounds. Test patch
one acne blemish before using over entire face.
Stress & Anxiety – (Green Pergola blend) (geranium, bergamot, rosemary, juniper, lemongrass, lavender) blend of oils that are good for stress, depression, grief & anxiety to lift the spirits. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of kidney disease of hypoglycemia.
Hikers & Campers – (Green Pergola blend) (citronella, lemon eucalyptus, cedarwood, lavender) used as a natural insect repellent, effective against mosquitoes and ticks. Do not use on cats. Dilute before use.
Uplifting – (Green Pergola blend) (five-fold orange, pink grapefruit, tangerine, bergamot, spearmint) blend of oils that are good for lifting the spirits helping one to feel energized and alive. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
taken from Green Pergola's Essential Oil Reference Guide
Anise – (pimpinella anisum) Sweet, licorice like scent often used during the hunting season to mask the human scent. Also applied to bait to attract fish. Cheering, euphoric, energizing, sense enhancing, antibacterical, coughs, deodorant, menopause. Parts used: seed pod Dilute well before use. Do not use during pregnancy.
Bergamot – (citrus bergamia) Citrusy, fresh, woodsy scent. Cheering, concentration, aggression, confidence, grief, nervous tension and stress. Said to help with the stress of Parkinson’s Disease and PMS moodiness. Good for withdrawals. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Do not expose applied area of skin to direct sunlight or
tanning bed for 24 hours.
Cedarwood – (cedrus atlantica) Dry, sweet, woodsy balsamic scent. Balancing, grounding and strengthening. Often used to promote self-control and to balance spirituality. Possible uses: acne, dry hair, rheumatism, oily skin, immunity booster. Parts used: wood Avoid during pregnancy. May irritate extra sensitive skin.
Cinnamon Leaf – (cinnamomum zeylancium) Hot, spicy scent — richer in aroma than ground cinnamon. Invigorating,
refreshing, warming, aphrodisiac properties. Often used by those with low blood pressure. Good for exhaustion & fatigue. Antifungal. Parts used: leaf. Avoid if you have high blood pressure. Dilute well before use.
Citronella – (cymbopogon nardus) Slightly fruity, fresh, lemony scent. An oil that is known to be refreshing, stimulating, soothing & vitalizing. Most popular for being a powerful insect repellent. Antiseptic properties,
good when you have a cold. Parts used: grass. Avoid during pregnancy.
Clary Sage – (salvia sclarea) Earthy, herbaceous & slightly fruity scent. Known as the “woman’s oil.” Good for use as an antidepressant, for PMS and Menopause. Also good for fatigue, fear & stress. Is often used to help promote vivid dreaming. Parts used: flowering tops, herb. Avoid with a history of breast or ovarian cysts or estrogen-dependent cancer. Do not overuse while drinking alcohol.
Clove Bud – (eugenia caryophyllata) Spicy, warming, rich but slightly bitter scent. Possible uses: memory loss, stimulating, energizing, warming. Also known for use as an antiseptic, for sprains, strains and is often used (in part) by dentists for toothache. Parts used: flower buds. A possible mucous membrane irritant. Not to be used by alcoholics, haemophiliacs or those with prostate cancer.
Cypress – (cupressus sempervirens) Fresh, slightly woody aroma. Helpful with aggression, nervous tension, stress & restlessness. Said to be good for hot flashes, menopause and bruising as well as a circulatory stimulant. Parts used: leaves (needles), twigs. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of estrogen-dependant cancer. Avoid
constant use with high blood pressure.
Eucalyptus – (eucalyptus globulus) Clean, fresh, medicinal scent. A balancing, cooling & stimulating oil often used with colds, coughs, muscular fatigue & sinusitis. Also helpful when you have bronchitis, the flu or slight fever. Parts used: leaves & twigs. Avoid with a history of epilepsy or if you have using homeopathic remedies.
Do NOT take internally — toxic.
Fir Needle – (Abies alba) Woody, earthy, fresh scent. Known for stimulating circulation. Often used for muscle pain, arthritis & rheumatism as well as elevating the emotions and helping with stress. Parts used: leaves (needles), twigs. Dilute well before use.
Frankincense – (Boswellia carterii) Spicy, woody, fruity & fresh smell. For the mind, frankincense is often used for anxiety, exhaustion and for focus. Reported to help with scars and wrinkles. Has been used in history for blessing and consecration. Parts used: resin. Avoid during pregnancy. Regarded as generally safe.
Geranium – (Pelargonium graveolens) Floral but sweet smell with fruity undertones. Often used for nerves, stress and for relaxed, intense focus (such as self-hypnosis). Has been known to calm those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and Muscular Dystrophy. Parts used: flowers, leaves, stalks. Avoid if a history of estrogen-dependant cancer or hypoglycemia.
Ginger – (Zingiber officinale) Smoky, spicy, woody scent. For the mind, used for memory loss and to anchor the emotions. Good for nausea, motion sickness, aches & sprains and the nausea associated with migraine headaches. Parts used: roots (stems). May irritate extra-sensitive skin. Dilute well before use.
Jasmine Absolute – (Jasminum officinalis) Exotic, floral, rich, sweet scent. Used often in the perfume industry. Has relaxing, sedative properties and is said to be an aphrodisiac. Also good as an antidepressant, for PMS & Menopause. Parts used: flowers Avoid during pregnancy. Extended use has narcotic-like properties.
Juniper Berry – (juniperus communis) Crisp, sweet & herbaceous with a fruity note. Often used for gout, jet lag and hangovers as well as for memory loss, clearing the mind and exhaustion. Said to have detoxifying and toning properties. Parts used: berries Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid if a history of kidney disease or high blood pressure.
Lavender – (lavandula officinalis) Floral, fresh, light, herbaceous scent. Is said to bring about love and peace. Good for insect bites, to calm the nerves, help with sleeping — soothing & relaxing. Also good for burns, bruises, itching and headaches. Parts used: flowering tops. Avoid during first trimester of pregnancy.
Lemon – (citrus limonum) Rich, fresh smell similar to fresh lemon rinds. Used to uplift the spirits as it is balancing, cheering and refreshing. Often used to reduce warts, for fainting and hayfever. Good ingredient in cleaning and dish washing. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Do not expose applied area of skin to direct sunlight or tanning bed for 24 hours.
Lemon Eucalyptus – (eucalyptus citriodora) Sweet, lemony smell with a woody note. Known to be calming and purifying. Reported by the CDC to be a good, natural substitution for DEET in combating mosquitoes. Contains some of the same properties as regular eucalyptus. Parts used: leaves, twigs. Dilute before use.
Lemongrass – (cymbopogon citratus) Fresh, lemony, grassy scent. For the mind, used for irritability, mental fatigue, stress & nervous exhaustion. Often used as a mild insect repellent, for light cases of athlete’s foot
and reported to be good for cellulite. Parts used: grass, leaves. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of
high blood pressure.
Lime – (citrus aurantifolia) Green, fresh, citrusy, sweet scent. Stimulating, uplifting & cheering, lime is know for helping raise the spirits and makes a good antidepressant. Good for skin toning as an astringent and is said to help with dandruff. Parts used: peel of fruit. Mildly phototoxic. Try to avoid direct exposure to sunlight where lime has been used on the skin.
Palmarosa – (cymbopogon martini)A floral, grassy, rose-like scent. Good for creativity, aggression & anxiety. Said to work quite well for wrinkles, dermatitis, hair loss & PMS symptoms. Associated with healing and love. Parts used: whole plant Avoid with a history of high blood pressure. Essential Oil General Description and Uses Safety Precautions
Patchouli – (pogostemon cablin) Rich, earthy, woody aroma. Known as a general aphrodisiac. Good for relaxation as well as concentration. Said to be good for wrinkles, acne, dandruff and athlete’s foot. Best known as the incense commonly used in the 1960’s. Parts used: leaves Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally.
Peppermint – (mentha piperita) Minty, strong peppermint candy smell. Cooling, refreshing, revitalizing and stimulating. Is good for headaches, nausea & jet lag. Mixed in base oils or lotions, is good for muscular aches and rheumatoid arthritis. Parts used: whole plant Avoid during pregnancy or a history of high blood pressure. Use in small amounts. Avoid contact with eyes.
Pink Grapefruit – (citrus paradisi) Citrusy scent, similar to a grapefruit rind. A good uplifting oil — good for concentration and to promote happy thoughts. Reported to be good for migraines, hangovers, PMS symptoms & hair loss as well as being antibacterial. Parts used: peel of fruit. Phototoxic. Avoid contact with the sun or
tanning beds after using oil on skin.
Ravensara – (ravensara aromatica) Slightly medicinal, yet, a fruity, candy-like smell. Mind clearing and relaxing. Best known for it antiviral properties and is often used as an air purifier during the flu season. Other properties include antibiotic and anti-infectious. Parts used: leaves. Do not take internally.
Rosemary – (rosmarinus officinalis) Sweet, fresh, herb-like, medicinal scent. Good for grief and fatigue as well as clearing out the mind. Often used as an antiviral, a decongestant and for muscular aches. Also known as an immunity stimulant. Parts used: leaves. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of high blood pressure or epilepsy.
Rosewood – (aniba rosaeodora) Sweet, woody and fruity with a floral scent. Good for mild cases of depression and
clearing out confusion. Often used for headaches, PMS, scars, sensitive skin and stretch marks. Parts used: wood, twigs. Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally.
Sandalwood – (santalum album) Woodsy, balsamic, deep perfume-like scent. Used to center the thoughts and also used in meditation and as an aphrodisiac. Known for being used for wrinkles, chapped skin, dry hair and dandruff. Parts used: wood. Do not take internally.
Spearmint – (mentha spicata) Fresh, minty, sweet smell — less potent than peppermint. Often used for sniffing during times of morning sickness. Also good for stimulating and reviving as well as asthma, headache and nausea. Parts used: leaves. Use in small amounts. Large amounts may irritate mucous membranes.
Sweet Orange – (citrus sinensis) Citrusy, sweet, strong scent like orange peels. Good antidepressant and uplifting oil. Has been used for drug withdrawal symptoms, stress and for its slight sedative properties. Often associated with joy, luck and money. Parts used: peel of fruit. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
Tangerine – (citrus reticulata) Bright, deep citrusy smell like tangerine peels. Relaxing, cheering & soothing. Astringent, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antidepressant. Parts used: peel of fruit. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
Tea Tree – (melaleuca alternifolia) An herbaceous, green, earthy scent — slightly medicinal. The scent has cleansing and cooling properties. Has been used for centuries for burns, bug bites, scrapes and cuts. Also good for athlete’s foot, blisters, boils and sunburns. Parts used: leaves, twigs. Do not take internally. Can be used neat (undiluted) in small amounts on many people. Test patch first.
White Camphor – (cinnamonum camphora) Fresh, vibrant, cool smell. Clarifying to the mind as well as cooling. Good for helping to think clearly and logically. Also known to help with colds, coughs, flu and as a decongestant. Parts used: wood Avoid if pregnant or epileptic. May counteract certain homeopathic remedies.
Ylang-Ylang – (cananga odorata) Floral, slightly fruity, delicate, perfume-like scent. Promotes euphoria, relaxation and is often thought of as an aphrodisiac. Lowers blood pressure. Good for its sedative properties and for shock. Parts used: flowers. Avoid if a history of apnea or low blood pressure.
Special Oil Blends made Locally in Nashville by Green Pergola http://www.greenpergola.com/
Cold & Flu Season – (Green Pergola blend) (ravensara, cajeput, eucalyptus, bergamot) use in home, car or office during the cold & flu season to help protect from viral infections. Do not take internally. Avoid if epileptic.
Prayer & Meditation – (Green Pergola blend) (sandalwood, frankincense, myrrh, clove, cedarwood atlas) a combination of oils used for centuries for prayer. spirituality & meditation. Avoid use on skin during pregnancy.
Sore Muscles – (Green Pergola blend) (sweet marjoram, cypress, coriander, peppermint, lavender, lemongrass) useful for sore, overworked muscles and arthritis. Avoid during pregnancy. Keep away from eyes.
Headache Relief – (Green Pergola blend) (peppermint, ginger, lavender, grapefruit) this combination is good for both tension and migraine headaches & the nausea associated with migraines. Generally regarded as safe. Do not take internally. Dilute well.
Study & Concentration – (Green Pergola blend) (basil, black pepper, clove, rosemary, lime) this combination of oils aids in concentration and mental thought – good for students & professionals. Avoid skin contact during pregnancy or a history of estrogen-dependent cancer.
Calm & Relaxed – (Green Pergola blend) (lavender, chamomile, clary sage, palmarosa, mandarin) a balanced blend of oils that leave you feeling calm, relaxed and may aid in a better nights sleep. Use with caution on skin if a history of breast or ovarian cysts.
Blemish & Boo-Boo – (Green Pergola blend) (lavender, tea tree, palmarosa, patchouli, lemongrass) apply directly to insect bites, small cuts & scratches as well as acne blemishes. Do not apply to large wounds. Test patch
one acne blemish before using over entire face.
Stress & Anxiety – (Green Pergola blend) (geranium, bergamot, rosemary, juniper, lemongrass, lavender) blend of oils that are good for stress, depression, grief & anxiety to lift the spirits. Avoid during pregnancy or a history of kidney disease of hypoglycemia.
Hikers & Campers – (Green Pergola blend) (citronella, lemon eucalyptus, cedarwood, lavender) used as a natural insect repellent, effective against mosquitoes and ticks. Do not use on cats. Dilute before use.
Uplifting – (Green Pergola blend) (five-fold orange, pink grapefruit, tangerine, bergamot, spearmint) blend of oils that are good for lifting the spirits helping one to feel energized and alive. Avoid use in sun. May irritate sensitive skin if not diluted properly.
taken from Green Pergola's Essential Oil Reference Guide
Herbal Blends offered at Symmetry
Buckthorn
Spiritual Energies: Used for protection, wishes and legal matters. Protects a home if placed near doors and windows. Buthorn is used to bring good luck to legal matters. Ruled by Saturn, Buckthorn is a purifying herb and helps with domestic matters. Holistic Properties: A serious real-deal laxative that gets rid of waste lickidy-split.
Burdock:
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Burdock is used for protection and healing. Cast around the house to keep away negative energy. Add to protection incenses and sachets. Holistic Properties: Burdock has both antifungal and antibiotic properties. It has been used to help alleviate blood disorders and restore liver and gallbladder function. It is said to help strengthen the immune system has been used in treating respiratory infections. It also helps to clear acne, boils, poison ivy and poison oak.
Calendula:
Spiritual Energies: Used for psychic abilities, prophetic dreams, protection and legal matters. In incense it can be used for divination and the consecration of divination tools. In tea it is used to enhance psychic abilities, intuition, and meditation. It can also be used in love magick. Add to bath water to help win the admiration of everyone you meet. Holistic Properties: Calendula is an excellent herb to help in the treatment of skin disorders. Use a calendula tea to wash over cuts and sores. As a tea, it helps soothe digestion problems. Calendula is also said to have anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Catnip:
Spiritual Energies: Add to simmering potpourris to promote peace and happiness. Use in love sachets, especially with rose petals. Feed to your cat for an entertaining show. Holistic Properties: The tea helps to break a fever, soothe an upset stomach and digestive system. Drink catnip tea to help ease tension from nicotine and alcohol withdraw symptoms. It also eases anxiety, calms crying, relieves PMS and helps with restful sleep.
Chamomile:
Spiritual Energies: Used to love, meditation, and prosperity. Add to incenses to bring on restful states for meditation and opening the third eye for psychic powers. Use in prosperity charm bags to draw in money. Chamomile brings the power of the sun to magick work, and can be used in love potions, money spells, and can be sprinkled around the house for protection. Holistic Properties: Chamomile tea has a soothing effect, which is an excellent aid for restful sleep and sore menstruation cramps. It also calms a nervous stomach and cures insomnia and anxiety. When used topically, it soothes skin. Add to an oil to help soothe aches, sore muscles and bruises.
Cinquefoil
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Jupiter, cinquefoil can be used for wealth, protection, and prophetic dreams. The five points are said to represent love, money, health, power and wisdom- carrying cinquefoil is said to grant these things. Cinquefoil also draws in energies of eloquence, favors granted, and the ability to dream prophetically. It is believed that carrying cinquefoil will make you feel a deep connection with nature. It has a reputation for being a very magickal herb in Medieval folklore. Holistic Properties: Cinquefoil can be used as a gargle, although it has a bitter taste. Topically it makes an excellent astringent for the skin.
Cleaver's Herb:
Spiritual Energies: Cleaver's Herb is associated with the element of water and Venus. Also known as bedstraw, it is used in love spells. Holistic Properties: Cleaver's Herb tea cleanses the skin when topically applied. It is also a diuretic tea and a lymph gland cleanser (which is important for immunity). It can be used as a hair rinse.
Damiana Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Mars, Damiana has energies used for love, lust, and visions. Holistic Properties: A natural aphrodisiac, damiana is said to helps both men and women in reproductive matters. For men, it helps fight impotence and sterility. For women, it helps fight infertility, balances hormones, assists in healthy menstruation cycles, and helps ease side effects of menopause. Damiana is also said to be a stimulating nervine tonic which helps to treat depression.
Dandelion Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Jupiter, it is used for divination and psychic abilities. Scatter around purple candles, or burn with peppermint oil to enhance intuition. Holistic Properties: Dandelion leaf contains iron, potassium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is a great cleansing herb, and in teas can be used as a diuretic and mild laxative. It helps to promote liver and gallbladder function, and can stabilize blood sugar. It is a diuretic that also cleanses the kidneys.
Eucalpytus:
Spiritual Energies: Used for healing, protection and purification. Use in healing or protective sachets, potions, simmering potpourris, and incense blends. Put a small amount in a bath to help energize the mind and heal the body. Holistic Properties: Although not recommended for internal use, its fragrance can help clear congestion.
Galangal:
Spiritual Energies: Use for protection, lust, health, money, and psychic powers. Galangal has been used for a variety of magickal needs. If it is carried it is said to bring good luck, good health, and aid in psychic development. It is sprinkled around the house to promote lust. It is excellent in money sachets and bottles, and said to give extra power to prosperity spells.
Ginger Powder:
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, lust, money, and courage. Put in love and lust sachets, spell bottles, and potions. In simmering potpourri and incense it promotes courage, confidence, abundance and magickal energy. Holistic Properties: Ginger warms the body, which promotes healing and circulation. Add to tea to aid in healing from the cold or flu. Ginger also calms a nauseous stomach, and works well in capsules or in tea if to calm a nervous stomach or travel sickness.
Ginkgo Leaf
Holistic Properties: Ginkgo is said to help improve mood, stimulate brain function, and have strong antioxidant qualities. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it has also been used in treatment for ADHD, memory loss, respiratory disease, and disorders related to poor circulation. It is excellent to add to teas when trying to combat allergies and asthma. Drinking a cup of ginkgo tea a day will keep you youthful, fit, and full of awareness.
Honeysuckle
Spiritual Energies: Used for healing, money, protection, psychic awareness and spirituality. The flowers are said to attract money and excellent for prosperity spells. Place in a vase in the home or around green candles to attract money. Place around a purple candle or in a purple sachet to strengthen psychic abilities. Ruled by Jupiter, honeysuckle also enhances spirituality.
Jasmine
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, spirituality, psychic abilities, peace, dreams, gardening, and astral projection. When used in love spells, it attracts spiritual love. Surround Jasmine around a red candle for love spells, or place in love spell bottles and sachets. It is said that burning jasmine before bed can bring prophetic dreams.
Kava Kava
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Kava Kava is used for visions, protection, and luck. Sprinkle around an area or burn for protection. Drinking Kava Kava is said to enhance psychic abilities. Holistic Properties: Kava Kava is a mild sedative that creates a tranquil feeling without loss of concentration. It relieves stress, tension and anxiety. It can also assist in alleviating insomnia, PMS, and feelings of depression. It is also said to have mild aphrodisiac qualities.
Lavender:
Spiritual Intent: Ruled by Mercury, lavender is used for love, longevity, happiness, and protection. Use in purification incense, soak in a lavender bath for good health, or use in sachets to attract love. Holistic Properties: Lavender is soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress and anxiety. In studies, lavender has shown to lower blood pressure and promote antibacterial activity. In baths, it promotes relaxation and relief from headaches and joint diseases.
Lemon Balm
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by the moon, it is used to bring in energies of love, success and healing. It can be used in a love charm to bring love and romance into your life. Holistic Properties: When ill, lemon balm tea helps you “sweat out” toxins and bacteria in the body. Iced lemon balm tea relieves tension and aids in respiratory function. It can also help in digestion and relieving nervousness. The fragrance is said to lift spirits and ease tension.
Marshmallow Root
Holistic Properties: Marshmallow root makes a wonderful tea that soothes sore throats and coughs, upset stomachs, colitis, and urinary tract infections. It contains a vitamin A, which helps to boost healing abilities.
Mugwort
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Mugwort is used for psychic powers, protection, prophetic dreams, love, healing, and astral projection. A tea or pillow of it helps with psychic visions and reams, and helps one to contact the astral realm. It can be used to help with scrying, and as an incense can cleanse magick mirrors and crystal balls. Carry mugwort to increase lust and fertility. Holistic Properties: Mugwort has been used in treating colds and can be used in a bath soak to relieve cold and flu symptoms. As a tonic and tea, mugwort can be used to help regulate periods and any severe pain that comes with them.
Mullein
Spiritual Energies: Mullein is used as a protective herb and is worn in safety amulets. It is associated with the element of fire and can be burned in incense to bring the magickal energies of fire to you. Carry to instill courage and line doors and windows in your home for a protective barrier. Holistic Properties: Mullein is an excellent addition to a tea for relieving respiratory problems. Mullein tea is also a great hair rinse. Off the Record: People come in and buy this stuff by the pound to smoke?!
Patchouli
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, it is used for love, lust, fertility, and prosperity. It can be used to attract people and promote lust. Use in incenses, simmering potpourris, green sachets, or scattered around green candles to bring in energies of abundance and wealth. Holistic Properties: In Asia, the fragrance of patchouli is said to be a stimulant and anti-depressant.
Pau D’Arco
Holistic Properties: Pau D’Arco has been used to help assist in the treatment of infections, candida, yeast infections, liver disease, and cancer. It has many anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. It has iron in it, which helps to build red blood cells. It is an excellent candida cleanser and helps to fortify immunity. It also clears mucous infections, which makes it a great herb to have on hand during colds and flus.
Peppermint Leaves or Peppermint Powder
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Mercury, peppermint is used for purification, sleep, healing, love, and psychic abilities. Use in a dream pillow to help bring on peaceful sleep and dreams. Use in a tea or a small amount in a bath soak for healing. Scatter around red candles to bring in energies of love. Holistic Properties: Peppermint helps soothe the stomach and intestines, therefore is excellent in tea to help fight indigestion. Peppermint tea is said to help ward off colds and flu, soothe sore thoats, and ease stomach aches. The fragrance of peppermint is said to help ease headaches and anxiety. The herb also helps to freshen breath.
Red Raspberry Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, raspberry leaf is used to bring in energies of protection and love. The leaves are carried by pregnant women to alleviate pregnancy and childbirth pains. Holistic Properties: Red raspberry can be used to help with menstrual irregularities, nausea, and female complaints. Although only mild dosage is recommended during pregnancy, red raspberry leaf can help with morning sickness, lactation, and childbirth. It can help to promote tissue healing and healthy skin as well.
Red Sandalwood
Spiritual Energies: Used for spirituality, healing, protection, purification, and astral projection. Its bold red color has the glow of creativity, and as an incense it raises a highly spiritual vibration. Burn alone, or add to a spiritual incense blend.
Rose Petals & Buds
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, luck, protection, and psychic powers. Burn in love incense or place in a love sachet. Wonderful in a loving bath soak and for scattering to draw in energies of love. In the home, rose brings high spiritual vibrations, love, and calmness.
Rosehips
Spiritual Energies: Rosehips are used to bring in energies of love and health. Put into a red sachet or carry to attract love to your life. Holistic Properties: Rosehips tea has an incredible number of nutrients that help fight aging, assist the immune system and help general well-being. It is an excellent tonic for energy and helps to fight illness. They fight infection, help digestion and help keep your skin hydrated. It has an incredible amount of vitamin C in it and can help to shorten the duration of a cold. New studies suggest it may help fight wrinkles.
Rosemary:
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by the sun, rosemary is used for healing, love, lust, purification, energy, creativity and concentration. Add to purification bath soaks, love sachets, and protection incenses. When hung up, it is said to ward off thieves. Drink rosemary tea before an exam since it promotes powerful mind function. Rosemary stimulates creativity, and is an one-herb incense for protection, healing, purification, exorcism, and to induce sleep. Holistic Properties: Rosemary helps to ease nervousness, stimulate memory, and soothe aches and pains. When taken as a warm tea, it helps ease headaches and nervousness It is also a circulatory stimulant and aids in warming the body.
Scullcap
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Scullcap is used for love, fidelity, and peace. Carry with you to bring a feeling of relaxation and peace. It is often an herb used in marriage and hand fasting ceremonies. Holistic Properties: Scullcap is a natural sedative which assists in alleviating insomnia and nerves. It has also been used help with drug or alcohol withdraw, relieve headaches, insomnia and menstrual cramps.
Slippery Elm
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Slippery Elm is used to stop gossip. According to Scott Cunningham you can “Burn slippery elm and throw into the fire a knotted yellow cord or thread. Any gossip against you will stop.” Holistic Properties: Slippery Elm is very helpful in treating diarrhea, colon disorders, sore throats, and intestinal ulcers. It is great in a tea for soothing sore throats and calming coughs. It is also helpful in relieving heart burn and ulcers.
Thyme
Spiritual Energies: Thyme thyme is used for purification, healing, psychic abilities, love, courage, energy, health, and clairvoyance. Thyme in a dream pillow eases nightmares and is said to bring restful sleep. It is is burned or simmered to attract good health, and can be put into sachets for relieving depressing and healing. As an incense, thyme is said to have protective properties. It is also to assist in seeing Otherworldly creatures, such as faeries. Carry or add in incense for clairvoyant rituals, or to purify magickal space. Holistic Properties: As a tea, thyme is used to help digestive complaints and respiratory issues. It is also suggested that thyme tea is helpful for urinary health, relieving menstrual cramps, and relieving headaches. Thyme also has antiseptic properties, and is often an ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes. In essential oil form, thyme can be applied to the skin to soothe and relax, as well as help alleviate coughing.
Uva Ursi
Spiritual Energies: Add to sachets to increase psychic abilities. This was a religious herb to Native Americans, who included it in Shamanic smoking mixtures to assist in skills of divination and prophecy. Holistic Properties: Uva Ursi is a diuretic which can help to balance the pH of urine and work as a tonic in the kidneys and bladder. It is often used to help treat urinary tract infections.
Vervain
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Vervain is used for love, purification, healing, money and protection. It is said to bring love a protection to those who carry it. It is used in ritual baths or scattered to bring peace. It can be added to personal safety amulets and to attract wealth. Carry in a red sachet to bring love into your life, or in a green sachet to bring prosperity into your life. It is an herb of poets, bards, and singers, and has energies of inspiration. Holistic Properties: Vervain has aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash, and is excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.
White Oak Bark
Spiritual Energies: Used for protection, health, money, healing, potency, fertility and luck. Oak brings fertility to ideas, projects and harvest magick. Oak has powerful protective powers and is sacred to Brigid and Dagda. Carrying oak in sachet or spell bottles is said to bring good luck and healing. Surround white oak around a blue candle for healing. Holistic Properties: A small dose of white oak bark can be added to teas to help combat yeast infections and other reproductive tract infections.
White Sage
Spiritual Energies: Commonly used in a smudge stick, white sage is an one-herb incense used for purification and spirituality. White Sage is commonly burned to clear spaces of stagnant energy and creates a sacred space. It can also be used for spirituality, promoting healing, meditation, animal magick, Shamanic work, and manifesting wishes.
Wormwood
Spiritual Energies: Having a reputation for its power, wormwood is not to be used by the beginner herbalist. It is not be be ingested or inhaled. It is used for clairvoyant and psychic abilities. Wormwood is associated with Samhain and can adorn black candles. Combine with mugwort and amethyst in a sachet for strong psychic abilities.
Yarrow
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, yarrow is used for love, courage, and psychic powers. It is an all-purpose botanical and a common ingredient in love spells. Yarrow can also be used to attract friendship. It is useful in divination incenses and sachets. Infused in tea, yarrow is said to improve psychic powers. When held in the hand, yarrow is said to help stop fear and heighten courage. Holistic Properties: Yarrow is a blood-purifier and can clean toxins out of the blood. It fights infections in the stomach and intestines, and can help soothe digestion problems. Use yarrow tea while fighting fevers and colds, as it breaks fevers and coughs, and fights infection. Soak a bandage in cool yarrow tea and wrap it around a wound for fast healing.
Also!!! HERBAL BLENDS!! These are combined with oils and can be used in sachets, spell bottles, charms, incenses and simmering potpourris.
Written by Kiki Dombrowski
Spiritual Energies: Used for protection, wishes and legal matters. Protects a home if placed near doors and windows. Buthorn is used to bring good luck to legal matters. Ruled by Saturn, Buckthorn is a purifying herb and helps with domestic matters. Holistic Properties: A serious real-deal laxative that gets rid of waste lickidy-split.
Burdock:
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Burdock is used for protection and healing. Cast around the house to keep away negative energy. Add to protection incenses and sachets. Holistic Properties: Burdock has both antifungal and antibiotic properties. It has been used to help alleviate blood disorders and restore liver and gallbladder function. It is said to help strengthen the immune system has been used in treating respiratory infections. It also helps to clear acne, boils, poison ivy and poison oak.
Calendula:
Spiritual Energies: Used for psychic abilities, prophetic dreams, protection and legal matters. In incense it can be used for divination and the consecration of divination tools. In tea it is used to enhance psychic abilities, intuition, and meditation. It can also be used in love magick. Add to bath water to help win the admiration of everyone you meet. Holistic Properties: Calendula is an excellent herb to help in the treatment of skin disorders. Use a calendula tea to wash over cuts and sores. As a tea, it helps soothe digestion problems. Calendula is also said to have anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Catnip:
Spiritual Energies: Add to simmering potpourris to promote peace and happiness. Use in love sachets, especially with rose petals. Feed to your cat for an entertaining show. Holistic Properties: The tea helps to break a fever, soothe an upset stomach and digestive system. Drink catnip tea to help ease tension from nicotine and alcohol withdraw symptoms. It also eases anxiety, calms crying, relieves PMS and helps with restful sleep.
Chamomile:
Spiritual Energies: Used to love, meditation, and prosperity. Add to incenses to bring on restful states for meditation and opening the third eye for psychic powers. Use in prosperity charm bags to draw in money. Chamomile brings the power of the sun to magick work, and can be used in love potions, money spells, and can be sprinkled around the house for protection. Holistic Properties: Chamomile tea has a soothing effect, which is an excellent aid for restful sleep and sore menstruation cramps. It also calms a nervous stomach and cures insomnia and anxiety. When used topically, it soothes skin. Add to an oil to help soothe aches, sore muscles and bruises.
Cinquefoil
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Jupiter, cinquefoil can be used for wealth, protection, and prophetic dreams. The five points are said to represent love, money, health, power and wisdom- carrying cinquefoil is said to grant these things. Cinquefoil also draws in energies of eloquence, favors granted, and the ability to dream prophetically. It is believed that carrying cinquefoil will make you feel a deep connection with nature. It has a reputation for being a very magickal herb in Medieval folklore. Holistic Properties: Cinquefoil can be used as a gargle, although it has a bitter taste. Topically it makes an excellent astringent for the skin.
Cleaver's Herb:
Spiritual Energies: Cleaver's Herb is associated with the element of water and Venus. Also known as bedstraw, it is used in love spells. Holistic Properties: Cleaver's Herb tea cleanses the skin when topically applied. It is also a diuretic tea and a lymph gland cleanser (which is important for immunity). It can be used as a hair rinse.
Damiana Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Mars, Damiana has energies used for love, lust, and visions. Holistic Properties: A natural aphrodisiac, damiana is said to helps both men and women in reproductive matters. For men, it helps fight impotence and sterility. For women, it helps fight infertility, balances hormones, assists in healthy menstruation cycles, and helps ease side effects of menopause. Damiana is also said to be a stimulating nervine tonic which helps to treat depression.
Dandelion Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Jupiter, it is used for divination and psychic abilities. Scatter around purple candles, or burn with peppermint oil to enhance intuition. Holistic Properties: Dandelion leaf contains iron, potassium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is a great cleansing herb, and in teas can be used as a diuretic and mild laxative. It helps to promote liver and gallbladder function, and can stabilize blood sugar. It is a diuretic that also cleanses the kidneys.
Eucalpytus:
Spiritual Energies: Used for healing, protection and purification. Use in healing or protective sachets, potions, simmering potpourris, and incense blends. Put a small amount in a bath to help energize the mind and heal the body. Holistic Properties: Although not recommended for internal use, its fragrance can help clear congestion.
Galangal:
Spiritual Energies: Use for protection, lust, health, money, and psychic powers. Galangal has been used for a variety of magickal needs. If it is carried it is said to bring good luck, good health, and aid in psychic development. It is sprinkled around the house to promote lust. It is excellent in money sachets and bottles, and said to give extra power to prosperity spells.
Ginger Powder:
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, lust, money, and courage. Put in love and lust sachets, spell bottles, and potions. In simmering potpourri and incense it promotes courage, confidence, abundance and magickal energy. Holistic Properties: Ginger warms the body, which promotes healing and circulation. Add to tea to aid in healing from the cold or flu. Ginger also calms a nauseous stomach, and works well in capsules or in tea if to calm a nervous stomach or travel sickness.
Ginkgo Leaf
Holistic Properties: Ginkgo is said to help improve mood, stimulate brain function, and have strong antioxidant qualities. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it has also been used in treatment for ADHD, memory loss, respiratory disease, and disorders related to poor circulation. It is excellent to add to teas when trying to combat allergies and asthma. Drinking a cup of ginkgo tea a day will keep you youthful, fit, and full of awareness.
Honeysuckle
Spiritual Energies: Used for healing, money, protection, psychic awareness and spirituality. The flowers are said to attract money and excellent for prosperity spells. Place in a vase in the home or around green candles to attract money. Place around a purple candle or in a purple sachet to strengthen psychic abilities. Ruled by Jupiter, honeysuckle also enhances spirituality.
Jasmine
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, spirituality, psychic abilities, peace, dreams, gardening, and astral projection. When used in love spells, it attracts spiritual love. Surround Jasmine around a red candle for love spells, or place in love spell bottles and sachets. It is said that burning jasmine before bed can bring prophetic dreams.
Kava Kava
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Kava Kava is used for visions, protection, and luck. Sprinkle around an area or burn for protection. Drinking Kava Kava is said to enhance psychic abilities. Holistic Properties: Kava Kava is a mild sedative that creates a tranquil feeling without loss of concentration. It relieves stress, tension and anxiety. It can also assist in alleviating insomnia, PMS, and feelings of depression. It is also said to have mild aphrodisiac qualities.
Lavender:
Spiritual Intent: Ruled by Mercury, lavender is used for love, longevity, happiness, and protection. Use in purification incense, soak in a lavender bath for good health, or use in sachets to attract love. Holistic Properties: Lavender is soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress and anxiety. In studies, lavender has shown to lower blood pressure and promote antibacterial activity. In baths, it promotes relaxation and relief from headaches and joint diseases.
Lemon Balm
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by the moon, it is used to bring in energies of love, success and healing. It can be used in a love charm to bring love and romance into your life. Holistic Properties: When ill, lemon balm tea helps you “sweat out” toxins and bacteria in the body. Iced lemon balm tea relieves tension and aids in respiratory function. It can also help in digestion and relieving nervousness. The fragrance is said to lift spirits and ease tension.
Marshmallow Root
Holistic Properties: Marshmallow root makes a wonderful tea that soothes sore throats and coughs, upset stomachs, colitis, and urinary tract infections. It contains a vitamin A, which helps to boost healing abilities.
Mugwort
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Mugwort is used for psychic powers, protection, prophetic dreams, love, healing, and astral projection. A tea or pillow of it helps with psychic visions and reams, and helps one to contact the astral realm. It can be used to help with scrying, and as an incense can cleanse magick mirrors and crystal balls. Carry mugwort to increase lust and fertility. Holistic Properties: Mugwort has been used in treating colds and can be used in a bath soak to relieve cold and flu symptoms. As a tonic and tea, mugwort can be used to help regulate periods and any severe pain that comes with them.
Mullein
Spiritual Energies: Mullein is used as a protective herb and is worn in safety amulets. It is associated with the element of fire and can be burned in incense to bring the magickal energies of fire to you. Carry to instill courage and line doors and windows in your home for a protective barrier. Holistic Properties: Mullein is an excellent addition to a tea for relieving respiratory problems. Mullein tea is also a great hair rinse. Off the Record: People come in and buy this stuff by the pound to smoke?!
Patchouli
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, it is used for love, lust, fertility, and prosperity. It can be used to attract people and promote lust. Use in incenses, simmering potpourris, green sachets, or scattered around green candles to bring in energies of abundance and wealth. Holistic Properties: In Asia, the fragrance of patchouli is said to be a stimulant and anti-depressant.
Pau D’Arco
Holistic Properties: Pau D’Arco has been used to help assist in the treatment of infections, candida, yeast infections, liver disease, and cancer. It has many anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. It has iron in it, which helps to build red blood cells. It is an excellent candida cleanser and helps to fortify immunity. It also clears mucous infections, which makes it a great herb to have on hand during colds and flus.
Peppermint Leaves or Peppermint Powder
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Mercury, peppermint is used for purification, sleep, healing, love, and psychic abilities. Use in a dream pillow to help bring on peaceful sleep and dreams. Use in a tea or a small amount in a bath soak for healing. Scatter around red candles to bring in energies of love. Holistic Properties: Peppermint helps soothe the stomach and intestines, therefore is excellent in tea to help fight indigestion. Peppermint tea is said to help ward off colds and flu, soothe sore thoats, and ease stomach aches. The fragrance of peppermint is said to help ease headaches and anxiety. The herb also helps to freshen breath.
Red Raspberry Leaf
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, raspberry leaf is used to bring in energies of protection and love. The leaves are carried by pregnant women to alleviate pregnancy and childbirth pains. Holistic Properties: Red raspberry can be used to help with menstrual irregularities, nausea, and female complaints. Although only mild dosage is recommended during pregnancy, red raspberry leaf can help with morning sickness, lactation, and childbirth. It can help to promote tissue healing and healthy skin as well.
Red Sandalwood
Spiritual Energies: Used for spirituality, healing, protection, purification, and astral projection. Its bold red color has the glow of creativity, and as an incense it raises a highly spiritual vibration. Burn alone, or add to a spiritual incense blend.
Rose Petals & Buds
Spiritual Energies: Used for love, luck, protection, and psychic powers. Burn in love incense or place in a love sachet. Wonderful in a loving bath soak and for scattering to draw in energies of love. In the home, rose brings high spiritual vibrations, love, and calmness.
Rosehips
Spiritual Energies: Rosehips are used to bring in energies of love and health. Put into a red sachet or carry to attract love to your life. Holistic Properties: Rosehips tea has an incredible number of nutrients that help fight aging, assist the immune system and help general well-being. It is an excellent tonic for energy and helps to fight illness. They fight infection, help digestion and help keep your skin hydrated. It has an incredible amount of vitamin C in it and can help to shorten the duration of a cold. New studies suggest it may help fight wrinkles.
Rosemary:
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by the sun, rosemary is used for healing, love, lust, purification, energy, creativity and concentration. Add to purification bath soaks, love sachets, and protection incenses. When hung up, it is said to ward off thieves. Drink rosemary tea before an exam since it promotes powerful mind function. Rosemary stimulates creativity, and is an one-herb incense for protection, healing, purification, exorcism, and to induce sleep. Holistic Properties: Rosemary helps to ease nervousness, stimulate memory, and soothe aches and pains. When taken as a warm tea, it helps ease headaches and nervousness It is also a circulatory stimulant and aids in warming the body.
Scullcap
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Scullcap is used for love, fidelity, and peace. Carry with you to bring a feeling of relaxation and peace. It is often an herb used in marriage and hand fasting ceremonies. Holistic Properties: Scullcap is a natural sedative which assists in alleviating insomnia and nerves. It has also been used help with drug or alcohol withdraw, relieve headaches, insomnia and menstrual cramps.
Slippery Elm
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Saturn, Slippery Elm is used to stop gossip. According to Scott Cunningham you can “Burn slippery elm and throw into the fire a knotted yellow cord or thread. Any gossip against you will stop.” Holistic Properties: Slippery Elm is very helpful in treating diarrhea, colon disorders, sore throats, and intestinal ulcers. It is great in a tea for soothing sore throats and calming coughs. It is also helpful in relieving heart burn and ulcers.
Thyme
Spiritual Energies: Thyme thyme is used for purification, healing, psychic abilities, love, courage, energy, health, and clairvoyance. Thyme in a dream pillow eases nightmares and is said to bring restful sleep. It is is burned or simmered to attract good health, and can be put into sachets for relieving depressing and healing. As an incense, thyme is said to have protective properties. It is also to assist in seeing Otherworldly creatures, such as faeries. Carry or add in incense for clairvoyant rituals, or to purify magickal space. Holistic Properties: As a tea, thyme is used to help digestive complaints and respiratory issues. It is also suggested that thyme tea is helpful for urinary health, relieving menstrual cramps, and relieving headaches. Thyme also has antiseptic properties, and is often an ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes. In essential oil form, thyme can be applied to the skin to soothe and relax, as well as help alleviate coughing.
Uva Ursi
Spiritual Energies: Add to sachets to increase psychic abilities. This was a religious herb to Native Americans, who included it in Shamanic smoking mixtures to assist in skills of divination and prophecy. Holistic Properties: Uva Ursi is a diuretic which can help to balance the pH of urine and work as a tonic in the kidneys and bladder. It is often used to help treat urinary tract infections.
Vervain
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, Vervain is used for love, purification, healing, money and protection. It is said to bring love a protection to those who carry it. It is used in ritual baths or scattered to bring peace. It can be added to personal safety amulets and to attract wealth. Carry in a red sachet to bring love into your life, or in a green sachet to bring prosperity into your life. It is an herb of poets, bards, and singers, and has energies of inspiration. Holistic Properties: Vervain has aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash, and is excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.
White Oak Bark
Spiritual Energies: Used for protection, health, money, healing, potency, fertility and luck. Oak brings fertility to ideas, projects and harvest magick. Oak has powerful protective powers and is sacred to Brigid and Dagda. Carrying oak in sachet or spell bottles is said to bring good luck and healing. Surround white oak around a blue candle for healing. Holistic Properties: A small dose of white oak bark can be added to teas to help combat yeast infections and other reproductive tract infections.
White Sage
Spiritual Energies: Commonly used in a smudge stick, white sage is an one-herb incense used for purification and spirituality. White Sage is commonly burned to clear spaces of stagnant energy and creates a sacred space. It can also be used for spirituality, promoting healing, meditation, animal magick, Shamanic work, and manifesting wishes.
Wormwood
Spiritual Energies: Having a reputation for its power, wormwood is not to be used by the beginner herbalist. It is not be be ingested or inhaled. It is used for clairvoyant and psychic abilities. Wormwood is associated with Samhain and can adorn black candles. Combine with mugwort and amethyst in a sachet for strong psychic abilities.
Yarrow
Spiritual Energies: Ruled by Venus, yarrow is used for love, courage, and psychic powers. It is an all-purpose botanical and a common ingredient in love spells. Yarrow can also be used to attract friendship. It is useful in divination incenses and sachets. Infused in tea, yarrow is said to improve psychic powers. When held in the hand, yarrow is said to help stop fear and heighten courage. Holistic Properties: Yarrow is a blood-purifier and can clean toxins out of the blood. It fights infections in the stomach and intestines, and can help soothe digestion problems. Use yarrow tea while fighting fevers and colds, as it breaks fevers and coughs, and fights infection. Soak a bandage in cool yarrow tea and wrap it around a wound for fast healing.
Also!!! HERBAL BLENDS!! These are combined with oils and can be used in sachets, spell bottles, charms, incenses and simmering potpourris.
Written by Kiki Dombrowski
Symmetry has the widest variety of herbs and herbal blends in Nashville! Below is a list of herbs we carry and their common properties.
Alfalfa Leaf (Herbal Energy and Staying Power) Helps in eliminating retained water, relieves urinary and bowel problems, used in treating anemia, fatigue, kidney, peptic ulcers, pituitary problems and for general health.
Astragalus Powder (Energy and Metabolism) Increases energy levels; builds resistance to disease by strengthening the immune system; aids in the prevention of atherosclerosis, insomnia, and hypertension; aids adrenal gland function; increases metabolism
Black Cohosh (A Sedative Root) Relieve Premenstrual pain and symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes, and may be helpful in treating rheumatic joint pain.
Blessed Thistle (A Special Affinity to Women) Excellent stimulant tonic for the stomach and heart, aids circulation and helps with liver problems, takes oxygen to the brain which may help strengthen memory, and may help with menopause and menstrual cramping.
Burdock Leaf (Natural Blood Purifier and Detoxifier) Helps improve metabolism and reduce cravings and hunger. Helps with severe skin problems, Urinary and Respiratory System, Helps balance Hormones. Good for removing toxins, strong blood purifier and cleanser and may help with arthritis.
Butcher's Broom (The Clean Sweeper) Improves circulation especially in the legs. Used to prevent fluid retention in Legs and ankles, helps remove toxins & renews energy.
Buckthorn Holistic Properties: A serious real-deal laxative that gets rid of waste lickidy-split.
Calendula It is said that Calendula flower gives off bright sparks during thunderstorms. In ancient Rome, yellow was the color of prosperity and wealth, so calendula was often part of wealthy gardens. Calendula is an excellent herb to help in the treatment of skin disorders. Use a calendula tea to was over cuts and sores. As a tea, it helps soothe digestion problems. Calendula is also said to have anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Cascara Sagrada Bark (A mild Laxative) Effective treatment for chronic constipation and symptoms relating to constipation.
Catnip (A Natural Anti-acid and Anti-stress Herb) Often used to treat colds and insomnia, helps lower fevers, dries up postnasal drip, gets rid of bad headaches and relieves sore aching bones due to colds and flu. The tea helps to break a fever, soothe an upset stomach and digestive system. Drink catnip tea to help ease tension from nicotine and alcohol withdraw symptoms. It also eases anxiety, calms crying, relieves PMS and helps with restful sleep.
Chamomile (The All-Around Comforter) Known for its calming effect on smooth muscle tissue, good for nervous stomach, menstrual cramps, and other common problems often related to stress and nourishes the respiratory tract. Chamomile tea has a soothing effect, which is an excellent aid for restful sleep and sore menstruation cramps. It also calms a nervous stomach and cures insomnia and anxiety. When used topically, it soothes skin. Add to an oil to help soothe aches, sore muscles and bruises.
Chaste Berry (A Women's Balance) Helps with PMS, Irregular periods, Menstrual Pain, Menopause, and other hormone, related problems in women. Has a calming effect.
Cinnamon Chips (Spice for Blends) Widely used to prevent infection and indigestion. Helps break down fats during digestion. A great aid for lowering Blood Sugars & helps control Type 2 Diabetes.
Cinquefoil Cinquefoil can be used as a gargle, although it has a bitter taste. Topically it makes an excellent astringent for the skin.
Cleavers (Lymph Cleanser) A lymphatic tonic valuable for diuretic properties. Dissolves kidney and urinary sediment. Helps overcome infection and an Anti inflammatory. Cleaver's Herb tea cleanses the skin when topically applied. It is also a diuretic tea and a lymph gland cleanser (which is important for immunity). It can be used as a hair rinse.
Comfrey Leaf (A Herb for Repairs) ONLY TO BE USED TOPICAL. A poultice of comfrey heals wounds, burns, sores and bruises.
Damiana Leaf Used to regulate the female cycles. It is also used to stimulate the sexual appetite. Good for urinary problems and nervousness' as hypertension. A natural aphrodisiac, damiana is said to helps both men and women in reproductive matters. For men, it helps fight impotence and sterility. For women, it helps fight infertility, balances hormones, assists in healthy menstruation cycles, and helps ease side effects of menopause. Damiana is also said to be a stimulating nervine tonic which helps to treat depression.
Dandelion Leaves (The Little Plant that Roars) Nourishes the liver and contains vital nutrients. Used to purify the blood, benefits the circulatory and glandular systems. Dandelion leaf contains iron, potassium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is a great cleansing herb, and in teas can be used as a diuretic and mild laxative. It helps to promote liver and gallbladder function, and can stabilize blood sugar. It is a diuretic that also cleanses the kidneys.
Dong Quai Powder (The Supreme Woman's Root) A powerful help for female reproductive system. A powerful uterine tonic and hormonal regulator. Used in premenstrual and menopausal syndrome formulas
Echinacea Angustifolia (Fights Infection & Detox) Helps removes toxins and fights infections and with stomach disorders
Echinacea Pallida (Lymph System Cleanser) Stimulates production of white "killer" cells and regulates red blood cells and a lymph system cleanser.
Echinacea Purpurea (Immune System) Used to enhance the immune system.
Eucalpytus Although not recommended for internal use, its fragrance can help clear congestion.
Fennel Seed (The Regulator) Helps take away the appetite. Improves Digestion, helpful with coughs, Natural Diuretic, Helps with gas, acid stomach, gout, cramps and spasms.
Feverfew (Migraines and Allergies) Helps fight against Migraines. Helps reduce inflammation in arthritic joints and has been used to restore liver to normal function.
Galangal Root Used for protection, lust, health, money, and psychic powers. Galangal clearly has been used for a variety of magickal needs. If it is carried it is said to bring good luck, good health, and aid in psychic development. It is sprinkled around the house to promote lust. It is excellent in money sachets and bottles, as it is said to give extra power to prosperity.
Ginger Root (The Hot Root) Arthritis, Rheumatism, Osteoporosis, Gout, Cold and Chills, Cold Hands and Feet, Heart Health, Nausea, Motion Sickness, Weight Control and Digestion. Ginger warms the body, which promotes healing and circulation. Add to tea to aid in healing from the cold or flu. Ginger also calms a nauseous stomach, and works well in capsules or in tea if to calm a nervous stomach or travel sickness.
Ginkgo (Life Enhancer) Effective in nutritionally supporting the body's systems through its antioxidant properties, A very potent free radical scavenger. Ginkgo is said to help improve mood, stimulate brain function, and have strong antioxidant qualities. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it has also been used in treatment for ADHD, memory loss, respiratory disease, and disorders related to poor circulation. It is excellent to add to teas when trying to combat allergies and asthma. Drinking a cup of ginkgo tea a day will keep you youthful, fit, and full of awareness.
Ginseng (King of Tonics) Excellent to build resistance against stress, both mental and physical fatigue, and .improves working ability, may help slow the aging process and improve stamina.
Gotu Kola (Herb for the Brain) Stimulates circulation to the brain, helps increase learning ability and considered one of the best nerve tonics which promotes relaxation.
Hibiscus (Enhancer for Blends) Member of the mallow family with a mellow, sweet taste and Vitamin C Enhance the flavor and bring harmony to a blend. It has a calming nature.
Honeysuckle Used for healing, money, protection, psychic awareness, and spirituality. The flowers are said to attract money and excellent for prosperity spells. Place in a vase in the home or around green candles to attract money. Lightly crush the flowers and rub on the third eye, or on an amethyst and carry for enhanced psychic abilities . Ruled by Jupiter, honeysuckle also enhances spirituality.
Hops Leaf (The "Good Night" Flowers) Is a sedative and useful in treating insomnia and nervous tension, coughs, bladder ailments, liver ailments. Externally used to treat itching skin rashes.
Hyssop (The Breathe of Life) Used in treating lung ailments, soothe sore throats, respiratory system cleanser, and bronchial congestion.
Kava Kava A mild sedative that creates a tranquil feeling without loss of concentration. It relieves stress, tension and anxiety. It can also assist in alleviating insomnia, PMS, and feelings of depression. It is also said to have mild aphrodisiac qualities.
Lavender (The Herb of Harmony) Excellent combined with other herbs that have a strong taste. Helps relax the body. May help with depression, nervous tension and stress. May also be used as a headache remedy. Lavender is a soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress, and anxiety. In tea, lavender is a tonic for toxins in the stomach. Lavender in the home brings peace, joy, and healing. Lavender is soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress and anxiety. In studies, lavender has shown to lower blood pressure and promote antibacterial activity. In baths, it promotes relaxation and relief from headaches and joint diseases.
Lemon Balm (Nature's Antihistamine) Used to treat fever, colds, flu, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia, nervous stomach, herpes simplex, hyperthyroidism, and indigestion. When ill, lemon balm tea helps you “sweat out” toxins and bacteria in the body. Iced lemon balm tea relieves tension and aids in respiratory function. It can also help in digestion and relieving nervousness. The fragrance is said to lift spirits and ease tension.
Lemongrass (Good for the Digestion) Fever reducer, stomach cramps, flatulence and colic, easing arthritic pain and general digestive aid, Suited for digestive problems in children.
Lemon Peel (Enhancer for blends) Is a digestive aid, used for abdominal bloating, nausea, cough and discomfort in the chest, heartburn, rheumatism, gout and swelling.
Licorice Root (The Soother) Relieves coughs and sore throats, Improves digestion, Eases menstrual cramps, Believes to increase libido, Reduces seasonal allergies and congestion
Marshmallow Root (Herb of Plenty) Does much to help, heal and soothe inflamed areas of the body helps with throat inflammation, larynx, laryngitis, bronchitis, and muscle aches and pains sinews. Works well for poor kidneys and bladder, & helps to lower blood sugar levels. Marshmallow root makes a wonderful tea that soothes sore throats and coughs, upset stomachs, colitis, and urinary tract infections. It contains a vitamin A, which helps to boost healing abilities.
Meadowsweet (The Acid Reliever) Helps to relieve stomach acidity and calms the digestive tract. Over time it will gently restores health to your digestive tract.
Milk Thistle (Liver detoxifier) For all liver disorders, fights pollutants and prevents free radical damage, Helps common skin conditions related to poor liver functions
Motherwort (Menopausal Friend) Helps relieves symptoms of PMS and menstrual disorders and other female troubles; helps tone the liver, reduces nervous anxiety and quiets the nervous system, and good for chest colds.
Mugwort Mugwort has been used in treating colds, and can be used in a bath soak to relieve cold symptoms and fever. As a tonic and tea, mugwort can be used to help regulate periods, and alleviate any severe pain that may come with them. It is also said to aid in digestion.
Mullein Mullein is an excellent addition to a tea for relieving respiratory problems. Mullein tea is also a great hair rinse. Off the Record: People come in and buy this stuff by the pound to smoke?!
Nettle Leaf (Build Your Energy) Blood Tonic and Circulatory Stimulant, Energy Builder, Good for Respiratory weakness, Helps regulates Moods, High blood pressure, Gout, PMS, and good for fever and colds.
Oat straw (Body Tonic) Contains high amounts of bone-building materials, effective herbal calcium and silica source. Strengthens nerves, and helps correct sugar use imbalances.
Orange Peel (A Blend Enhancer) In Chinese medicine, used as a diuretic, for digestive properties, & has Vitamin C.
Papaya Leaf (The Digestive Regulator) Very useful as a digestive stimulant, relieves sour stomach, helps cleanse the lymph system and fights infection, helps with weight loss.
Passion Leaf (The Herb of Tranquility) Used to treat hyperactivity and insomnia. A pure and mild sedative. Very relaxing. Useful to calm nerves and blood pressure. A mildly sedative to relieve pain, antispasmodic to relieve muscle spasms and mild relaxant.
Patchouli In Asia, the fragrance of patchouli is said to be a stimulant and anti-depressant.
Pau D'Arco (The Divine Bark) Antifungal, hypotensive, anti-diabetic, bitter tonic, digestive, antibacterial, used to treat autoimmune diseases, provides energy and strength to the body, build and protects the immune system, and a natural blood builder and cleanser. Pau D’Arco has been used to help assist in the treatment of infections, candida, yeast infections, liver disease, and cancer. It has many anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. It has iron in it, which helps to build red blood cells. It is an excellent candida cleanser and helps to fortify immunity. It also clears mucous infections, which makes it a great herb to have on hand during colds and flus.
Peach Leaf (Herbal Digestive Aid) Calms nervousness helps with chest congestion, a mild laxative, & rids toxins.
Peppermint (Leaves or Powder) (Marvel of Menthol) Excellent for upset stomach, gastrointestinal disturbances, anxiety, restlessness, tension and tension headaches. A mild relaxant for children and the elderly. Peppermint helps soothe the stomach and intestines, therefore is excellent in tea to help fight indigestion. Peppermint tea is said to help ward off colds and flu, soothe sore thoats, and ease stomach aches. The fragrance of peppermint is said to help ease headaches and anxiety. The herb also helps to freshen breath.
Plantain (Herbal Star) Used to clear mucous from the body, to neutralize poisons, treat lung problems, treat stomach ulcers, diarrhea, and bladder infections.
Red Raspberry Leaf (Gravity Reliever-A Woman's Friend) Strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. Nourishes reproductive organs, soothing astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Helps balance the body so diarrhea or constipation can be relieved. Red raspberry can be used to help with menstrual irregularities, nausea, and female complaints. Although only mild dosage is recommended during pregnancy, red raspberry leaf can help with morning sickness, lactation, and childbirth. It can help to promote tissue healing and healthy skin as well.
Red Clover (Herb that Met a Tempest) Excellent for bronchial congestion. Relaxing to nerves and entire system. Used for rheumatoid arthritis and as a treatment for whooping cough and bronchitis.
Rose Hips (The Queen of the Flowers) Nutrient Tonic, Plain and Simple Protection, Skin and Soul. "From Skin to Spirit, the Perfect Rose, For Young and Old, the Perfect Rose, A Wealth of Health, the Perfect Rose. Rosehips tea has an incredible number of nutrients that help fight aging, assist the immune system and help general well-being. It is an excellent tonic for energy and helps to fight illness. They fight infection, help digestion and help keep your skin hydrated. It has an incredible amount of vitamin C in it and can help to shorten the duration of a cold. New studies suggest it may help fight wrinkles.
Rosemary Rosemary helps to ease nervousness, stimulate memory, and soothe aches and pains. When taken as a warm tea, it helps ease headaches and nervousness It is also a circulatory stimulant and aids in warming the body.
Sage (Hot Flash Fighter) May reduce sweating and the severity and frequency of hot flash. May calm nerves, improve digestion and ease lung congestion and coughs.
Sarsaparilla Root (The Deep-Cleaner) A natural steroid and progesterone precursor, helps improve sports performance, is a female toner, and helps relieve arthritic pain. Helps balance hormonal levels & used for parasitic infections of the skin.
Saw Palmetto (The Fat Fighter) Hormone Balance, Nervous System, Prostate, Fatigue, Urinary Tract Infections, Women's Life Cycle, and Fat Fighter, Has the enzyme lipase that breaks fats down.
Senna Leaf (A Potent Laxative) A very effective laxative, often used as a cleanser during a fast. It is STRONG, so you should combine it with fennel or ginger. Don not use for prolonged periods to avoid bowel becoming dependent, and do not use in cases of dehydration.
Scullcap Scullcap is a natural sedative which assists in alleviating insomnia and nerves. It has also been used help with drug or alcohol withdraw, relieve headaches, insomnia and menstrual cramps.
Shave grass (Healing stems) Helps with brittle nails and hair, part of treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Often used in treating urinary tract infection.
Slippery Elm (Barrier to Disease) Neutralize stomach acids, boost adrenal glands, draws out impurities, heals all parts of the body, most useful for respiratory system, helps in the healing of burns, skin cancers, poison ivy , and wounds. Slippery Elm is very helpful in treating diarrhea, colon disorders, sore throats, and intestinal ulcers. It is great in a tea for soothing sore throats and calming coughs. It is also helpful in relieving heart burn and ulcers.
Spearmint (The Flavoring Mint) Aids in colds, flu, gas, colic, and stopping vomiting during pregnancy.
Stevia (A Dietary Supplement) A Natural Non-Caloric Sweet-Tasting Leaf. **1/4 tsp per cup **
St. John's Wort (The Restorer) Useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, healing wounds, eases depression, headaches, hysteria, neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause, useful in swellings, abscesses and bad insect sting.
Thyme (The Knockout Infection Fighter) Powerful antiviral, antibiotic, diuretic properties, helps eliminate wastes from the body, used in treating whooping coughs, warts, rheumatism and acne. Fever breaker, headache reducer and to be rid of intestinal worms. As a tea, thyme is used to help digestive complaints and respiratory issues. It is also suggested that thyme tea is helpful for urinary health, relieving menstrual cramps, and relieving headaches. Thyme also has antiseptic properties, and is often an ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes. In essential oil form, thyme can be applied to the skin to soothe and relax, as well as help alleviate coughing.
Turmeric Powder (Indian Saffron) Powerful Anti-inflammatory, Menstrual difficulties, chest pain and Colic, inflammatory Bowel Disease, Relief for rheumatoid/Arthritis, Helps for Cystic Fibrosis sufferers, Improve liver function, and Cardiovascular Protection
Uva Ursi Uva Ursi is a diuretic which can help to balance the pH of urine and work as a tonic in the kidneys and bladder. It is often used to help treat urinary tract infections.
Valerian (Natural Sleeping Aid) Is a relaxant herb which has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system. For insomnia drink before bedtime to help induce sleep quickly. Vervain has aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash, and is excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.
Vervain Vervain was regarded as an aura-healing herb to the Druids. It grew in Jerusalem, and said to be the herb that was used to stop the bleeding and heal the wounds of Jesus. In 77 CE, Pliny said that Magi claimed that people who are rubbed with Vervain “obtain their wishes, banish fever, and cure all diseases.” Priests in ancient Rome used vervain to cleanse altars of Jupiter. Vervain as aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.Ruled by Venus, Vervain is spiritually used for love, purification, healing, money, and protection. It is traditionally gathered on Midsummer. A powerful herb of blessing and consecration when used to ritually “sweep” the altar. Brings love and protection when carried. It is used in a ritual bath or scattered to bring peace. Can be added to personal safety amulets and to attract wealth. For magickal baths, purification incenses, personal safety amulets. Used in love and protection sachets. Can also use to attract wealth. It is an herb of poets, bards, and singers, and has energies of inspiration.
White Oak Bark Used for protection, health, money, healing, potency, fetility, and luck. Oak brings fertility to ideas, projects and harvest magick. Oak has powerful protective powers, and is sacred to Brighid and Dadga. Carrying oak in sachet or spell bottle is said to bring good luck or healing. Surround white oak around a blue candle for healing magick. As a tea, white oak bark may be useful in fighting inflammation and aid in kidney function. A small dose of white oak bark can be added to teas to help combat yeast infections and other reproductive tract infections.
White Willow (An Anti-Inflammatory) Useful in all stomach troubles, especially sour stomach and heartburn. Mostly used for minor aches and pains in the body. Neuralgia, Arthritis, Rheumatism, Bursitis, Lumbago, Inflammatory Skin Condition, Strengthen Digestive Organs,
Wild Yam (Menopausal Friend) Very relaxing to muscles, soothing to nerves, and good for glands. Contains plant progesterone which aids in menopause. Good for arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Wood Betony (The Herb of Sanctity) Head Clearing Relieves Congestion That Can Hang On After A Cold Or Sinus Condition, Digestive Disorders Soothes Indigestion, Heartburn, Dyspepsia, Colic And Gas, Headaches, Circulatory Tonic, Liver Enhancer, Helps Lower High Blood Sugar Levels, Neuralgia, Sciatica, Arthritis, Gout, Rheumatism, Helps Fight Skin Infections, helps clean impurities from the blood, urinary tract inflammation, varicose veins and intestinal worms.
Yarrow (The Wound Healer) Blood Purifier, Digestive System, Fevered Colds, Menstruation, Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, Wounds, High Blood Pressure, Calm an Irritable Bladder, Soothe Painful Joints, Helps eliminate toxins, aids in arthritis symptoms such as swelling and inflammation and aching, sore muscles, stiff joints and back pain. Yarrow is a blood-purifier and can clean toxins out of the blood. It fights infections in the stomach and intestines, and can help soothe digestion problems. Use yarrow tea while fighting fevers and colds, as it breaks fevers and coughs, and fights infection. Soak a bandage in cool yarrow tea and wrap it around a wound for fast healing.
Yellow Dock Root (The Cool Cleanser) Most useful blood purifier, therefore good in all skin problem. Helps tone entire system, soothes the stomach and bowel lining, fights fatigue, removes toxins, reduce inflammation and lymph buildup, aids in decongesting the liver, reducing inflammation, cleaning the blood and increasing the bile flow, used in the treatment of chronic skin complaints such as psoriasis.
*Written in part by Bonnie Taylor (the tea lady!) and Kiki Dombrowski
Astragalus Powder (Energy and Metabolism) Increases energy levels; builds resistance to disease by strengthening the immune system; aids in the prevention of atherosclerosis, insomnia, and hypertension; aids adrenal gland function; increases metabolism
Black Cohosh (A Sedative Root) Relieve Premenstrual pain and symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes, and may be helpful in treating rheumatic joint pain.
Blessed Thistle (A Special Affinity to Women) Excellent stimulant tonic for the stomach and heart, aids circulation and helps with liver problems, takes oxygen to the brain which may help strengthen memory, and may help with menopause and menstrual cramping.
Burdock Leaf (Natural Blood Purifier and Detoxifier) Helps improve metabolism and reduce cravings and hunger. Helps with severe skin problems, Urinary and Respiratory System, Helps balance Hormones. Good for removing toxins, strong blood purifier and cleanser and may help with arthritis.
Butcher's Broom (The Clean Sweeper) Improves circulation especially in the legs. Used to prevent fluid retention in Legs and ankles, helps remove toxins & renews energy.
Buckthorn Holistic Properties: A serious real-deal laxative that gets rid of waste lickidy-split.
Calendula It is said that Calendula flower gives off bright sparks during thunderstorms. In ancient Rome, yellow was the color of prosperity and wealth, so calendula was often part of wealthy gardens. Calendula is an excellent herb to help in the treatment of skin disorders. Use a calendula tea to was over cuts and sores. As a tea, it helps soothe digestion problems. Calendula is also said to have anti-fungal and anti-viral properties.
Cascara Sagrada Bark (A mild Laxative) Effective treatment for chronic constipation and symptoms relating to constipation.
Catnip (A Natural Anti-acid and Anti-stress Herb) Often used to treat colds and insomnia, helps lower fevers, dries up postnasal drip, gets rid of bad headaches and relieves sore aching bones due to colds and flu. The tea helps to break a fever, soothe an upset stomach and digestive system. Drink catnip tea to help ease tension from nicotine and alcohol withdraw symptoms. It also eases anxiety, calms crying, relieves PMS and helps with restful sleep.
Chamomile (The All-Around Comforter) Known for its calming effect on smooth muscle tissue, good for nervous stomach, menstrual cramps, and other common problems often related to stress and nourishes the respiratory tract. Chamomile tea has a soothing effect, which is an excellent aid for restful sleep and sore menstruation cramps. It also calms a nervous stomach and cures insomnia and anxiety. When used topically, it soothes skin. Add to an oil to help soothe aches, sore muscles and bruises.
Chaste Berry (A Women's Balance) Helps with PMS, Irregular periods, Menstrual Pain, Menopause, and other hormone, related problems in women. Has a calming effect.
Cinnamon Chips (Spice for Blends) Widely used to prevent infection and indigestion. Helps break down fats during digestion. A great aid for lowering Blood Sugars & helps control Type 2 Diabetes.
Cinquefoil Cinquefoil can be used as a gargle, although it has a bitter taste. Topically it makes an excellent astringent for the skin.
Cleavers (Lymph Cleanser) A lymphatic tonic valuable for diuretic properties. Dissolves kidney and urinary sediment. Helps overcome infection and an Anti inflammatory. Cleaver's Herb tea cleanses the skin when topically applied. It is also a diuretic tea and a lymph gland cleanser (which is important for immunity). It can be used as a hair rinse.
Comfrey Leaf (A Herb for Repairs) ONLY TO BE USED TOPICAL. A poultice of comfrey heals wounds, burns, sores and bruises.
Damiana Leaf Used to regulate the female cycles. It is also used to stimulate the sexual appetite. Good for urinary problems and nervousness' as hypertension. A natural aphrodisiac, damiana is said to helps both men and women in reproductive matters. For men, it helps fight impotence and sterility. For women, it helps fight infertility, balances hormones, assists in healthy menstruation cycles, and helps ease side effects of menopause. Damiana is also said to be a stimulating nervine tonic which helps to treat depression.
Dandelion Leaves (The Little Plant that Roars) Nourishes the liver and contains vital nutrients. Used to purify the blood, benefits the circulatory and glandular systems. Dandelion leaf contains iron, potassium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It is a great cleansing herb, and in teas can be used as a diuretic and mild laxative. It helps to promote liver and gallbladder function, and can stabilize blood sugar. It is a diuretic that also cleanses the kidneys.
Dong Quai Powder (The Supreme Woman's Root) A powerful help for female reproductive system. A powerful uterine tonic and hormonal regulator. Used in premenstrual and menopausal syndrome formulas
Echinacea Angustifolia (Fights Infection & Detox) Helps removes toxins and fights infections and with stomach disorders
Echinacea Pallida (Lymph System Cleanser) Stimulates production of white "killer" cells and regulates red blood cells and a lymph system cleanser.
Echinacea Purpurea (Immune System) Used to enhance the immune system.
Eucalpytus Although not recommended for internal use, its fragrance can help clear congestion.
Fennel Seed (The Regulator) Helps take away the appetite. Improves Digestion, helpful with coughs, Natural Diuretic, Helps with gas, acid stomach, gout, cramps and spasms.
Feverfew (Migraines and Allergies) Helps fight against Migraines. Helps reduce inflammation in arthritic joints and has been used to restore liver to normal function.
Galangal Root Used for protection, lust, health, money, and psychic powers. Galangal clearly has been used for a variety of magickal needs. If it is carried it is said to bring good luck, good health, and aid in psychic development. It is sprinkled around the house to promote lust. It is excellent in money sachets and bottles, as it is said to give extra power to prosperity.
Ginger Root (The Hot Root) Arthritis, Rheumatism, Osteoporosis, Gout, Cold and Chills, Cold Hands and Feet, Heart Health, Nausea, Motion Sickness, Weight Control and Digestion. Ginger warms the body, which promotes healing and circulation. Add to tea to aid in healing from the cold or flu. Ginger also calms a nauseous stomach, and works well in capsules or in tea if to calm a nervous stomach or travel sickness.
Ginkgo (Life Enhancer) Effective in nutritionally supporting the body's systems through its antioxidant properties, A very potent free radical scavenger. Ginkgo is said to help improve mood, stimulate brain function, and have strong antioxidant qualities. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it has also been used in treatment for ADHD, memory loss, respiratory disease, and disorders related to poor circulation. It is excellent to add to teas when trying to combat allergies and asthma. Drinking a cup of ginkgo tea a day will keep you youthful, fit, and full of awareness.
Ginseng (King of Tonics) Excellent to build resistance against stress, both mental and physical fatigue, and .improves working ability, may help slow the aging process and improve stamina.
Gotu Kola (Herb for the Brain) Stimulates circulation to the brain, helps increase learning ability and considered one of the best nerve tonics which promotes relaxation.
Hibiscus (Enhancer for Blends) Member of the mallow family with a mellow, sweet taste and Vitamin C Enhance the flavor and bring harmony to a blend. It has a calming nature.
Honeysuckle Used for healing, money, protection, psychic awareness, and spirituality. The flowers are said to attract money and excellent for prosperity spells. Place in a vase in the home or around green candles to attract money. Lightly crush the flowers and rub on the third eye, or on an amethyst and carry for enhanced psychic abilities . Ruled by Jupiter, honeysuckle also enhances spirituality.
Hops Leaf (The "Good Night" Flowers) Is a sedative and useful in treating insomnia and nervous tension, coughs, bladder ailments, liver ailments. Externally used to treat itching skin rashes.
Hyssop (The Breathe of Life) Used in treating lung ailments, soothe sore throats, respiratory system cleanser, and bronchial congestion.
Kava Kava A mild sedative that creates a tranquil feeling without loss of concentration. It relieves stress, tension and anxiety. It can also assist in alleviating insomnia, PMS, and feelings of depression. It is also said to have mild aphrodisiac qualities.
Lavender (The Herb of Harmony) Excellent combined with other herbs that have a strong taste. Helps relax the body. May help with depression, nervous tension and stress. May also be used as a headache remedy. Lavender is a soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress, and anxiety. In tea, lavender is a tonic for toxins in the stomach. Lavender in the home brings peace, joy, and healing. Lavender is soothing and calming herb that can be used to assist in alleviating headaches, sleeping problems, stress and anxiety. In studies, lavender has shown to lower blood pressure and promote antibacterial activity. In baths, it promotes relaxation and relief from headaches and joint diseases.
Lemon Balm (Nature's Antihistamine) Used to treat fever, colds, flu, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia, nervous stomach, herpes simplex, hyperthyroidism, and indigestion. When ill, lemon balm tea helps you “sweat out” toxins and bacteria in the body. Iced lemon balm tea relieves tension and aids in respiratory function. It can also help in digestion and relieving nervousness. The fragrance is said to lift spirits and ease tension.
Lemongrass (Good for the Digestion) Fever reducer, stomach cramps, flatulence and colic, easing arthritic pain and general digestive aid, Suited for digestive problems in children.
Lemon Peel (Enhancer for blends) Is a digestive aid, used for abdominal bloating, nausea, cough and discomfort in the chest, heartburn, rheumatism, gout and swelling.
Licorice Root (The Soother) Relieves coughs and sore throats, Improves digestion, Eases menstrual cramps, Believes to increase libido, Reduces seasonal allergies and congestion
Marshmallow Root (Herb of Plenty) Does much to help, heal and soothe inflamed areas of the body helps with throat inflammation, larynx, laryngitis, bronchitis, and muscle aches and pains sinews. Works well for poor kidneys and bladder, & helps to lower blood sugar levels. Marshmallow root makes a wonderful tea that soothes sore throats and coughs, upset stomachs, colitis, and urinary tract infections. It contains a vitamin A, which helps to boost healing abilities.
Meadowsweet (The Acid Reliever) Helps to relieve stomach acidity and calms the digestive tract. Over time it will gently restores health to your digestive tract.
Milk Thistle (Liver detoxifier) For all liver disorders, fights pollutants and prevents free radical damage, Helps common skin conditions related to poor liver functions
Motherwort (Menopausal Friend) Helps relieves symptoms of PMS and menstrual disorders and other female troubles; helps tone the liver, reduces nervous anxiety and quiets the nervous system, and good for chest colds.
Mugwort Mugwort has been used in treating colds, and can be used in a bath soak to relieve cold symptoms and fever. As a tonic and tea, mugwort can be used to help regulate periods, and alleviate any severe pain that may come with them. It is also said to aid in digestion.
Mullein Mullein is an excellent addition to a tea for relieving respiratory problems. Mullein tea is also a great hair rinse. Off the Record: People come in and buy this stuff by the pound to smoke?!
Nettle Leaf (Build Your Energy) Blood Tonic and Circulatory Stimulant, Energy Builder, Good for Respiratory weakness, Helps regulates Moods, High blood pressure, Gout, PMS, and good for fever and colds.
Oat straw (Body Tonic) Contains high amounts of bone-building materials, effective herbal calcium and silica source. Strengthens nerves, and helps correct sugar use imbalances.
Orange Peel (A Blend Enhancer) In Chinese medicine, used as a diuretic, for digestive properties, & has Vitamin C.
Papaya Leaf (The Digestive Regulator) Very useful as a digestive stimulant, relieves sour stomach, helps cleanse the lymph system and fights infection, helps with weight loss.
Passion Leaf (The Herb of Tranquility) Used to treat hyperactivity and insomnia. A pure and mild sedative. Very relaxing. Useful to calm nerves and blood pressure. A mildly sedative to relieve pain, antispasmodic to relieve muscle spasms and mild relaxant.
Patchouli In Asia, the fragrance of patchouli is said to be a stimulant and anti-depressant.
Pau D'Arco (The Divine Bark) Antifungal, hypotensive, anti-diabetic, bitter tonic, digestive, antibacterial, used to treat autoimmune diseases, provides energy and strength to the body, build and protects the immune system, and a natural blood builder and cleanser. Pau D’Arco has been used to help assist in the treatment of infections, candida, yeast infections, liver disease, and cancer. It has many anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. It has iron in it, which helps to build red blood cells. It is an excellent candida cleanser and helps to fortify immunity. It also clears mucous infections, which makes it a great herb to have on hand during colds and flus.
Peach Leaf (Herbal Digestive Aid) Calms nervousness helps with chest congestion, a mild laxative, & rids toxins.
Peppermint (Leaves or Powder) (Marvel of Menthol) Excellent for upset stomach, gastrointestinal disturbances, anxiety, restlessness, tension and tension headaches. A mild relaxant for children and the elderly. Peppermint helps soothe the stomach and intestines, therefore is excellent in tea to help fight indigestion. Peppermint tea is said to help ward off colds and flu, soothe sore thoats, and ease stomach aches. The fragrance of peppermint is said to help ease headaches and anxiety. The herb also helps to freshen breath.
Plantain (Herbal Star) Used to clear mucous from the body, to neutralize poisons, treat lung problems, treat stomach ulcers, diarrhea, and bladder infections.
Red Raspberry Leaf (Gravity Reliever-A Woman's Friend) Strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. Nourishes reproductive organs, soothing astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Helps balance the body so diarrhea or constipation can be relieved. Red raspberry can be used to help with menstrual irregularities, nausea, and female complaints. Although only mild dosage is recommended during pregnancy, red raspberry leaf can help with morning sickness, lactation, and childbirth. It can help to promote tissue healing and healthy skin as well.
Red Clover (Herb that Met a Tempest) Excellent for bronchial congestion. Relaxing to nerves and entire system. Used for rheumatoid arthritis and as a treatment for whooping cough and bronchitis.
Rose Hips (The Queen of the Flowers) Nutrient Tonic, Plain and Simple Protection, Skin and Soul. "From Skin to Spirit, the Perfect Rose, For Young and Old, the Perfect Rose, A Wealth of Health, the Perfect Rose. Rosehips tea has an incredible number of nutrients that help fight aging, assist the immune system and help general well-being. It is an excellent tonic for energy and helps to fight illness. They fight infection, help digestion and help keep your skin hydrated. It has an incredible amount of vitamin C in it and can help to shorten the duration of a cold. New studies suggest it may help fight wrinkles.
Rosemary Rosemary helps to ease nervousness, stimulate memory, and soothe aches and pains. When taken as a warm tea, it helps ease headaches and nervousness It is also a circulatory stimulant and aids in warming the body.
Sage (Hot Flash Fighter) May reduce sweating and the severity and frequency of hot flash. May calm nerves, improve digestion and ease lung congestion and coughs.
Sarsaparilla Root (The Deep-Cleaner) A natural steroid and progesterone precursor, helps improve sports performance, is a female toner, and helps relieve arthritic pain. Helps balance hormonal levels & used for parasitic infections of the skin.
Saw Palmetto (The Fat Fighter) Hormone Balance, Nervous System, Prostate, Fatigue, Urinary Tract Infections, Women's Life Cycle, and Fat Fighter, Has the enzyme lipase that breaks fats down.
Senna Leaf (A Potent Laxative) A very effective laxative, often used as a cleanser during a fast. It is STRONG, so you should combine it with fennel or ginger. Don not use for prolonged periods to avoid bowel becoming dependent, and do not use in cases of dehydration.
Scullcap Scullcap is a natural sedative which assists in alleviating insomnia and nerves. It has also been used help with drug or alcohol withdraw, relieve headaches, insomnia and menstrual cramps.
Shave grass (Healing stems) Helps with brittle nails and hair, part of treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Often used in treating urinary tract infection.
Slippery Elm (Barrier to Disease) Neutralize stomach acids, boost adrenal glands, draws out impurities, heals all parts of the body, most useful for respiratory system, helps in the healing of burns, skin cancers, poison ivy , and wounds. Slippery Elm is very helpful in treating diarrhea, colon disorders, sore throats, and intestinal ulcers. It is great in a tea for soothing sore throats and calming coughs. It is also helpful in relieving heart burn and ulcers.
Spearmint (The Flavoring Mint) Aids in colds, flu, gas, colic, and stopping vomiting during pregnancy.
Stevia (A Dietary Supplement) A Natural Non-Caloric Sweet-Tasting Leaf. **1/4 tsp per cup **
St. John's Wort (The Restorer) Useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, healing wounds, eases depression, headaches, hysteria, neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause, useful in swellings, abscesses and bad insect sting.
Thyme (The Knockout Infection Fighter) Powerful antiviral, antibiotic, diuretic properties, helps eliminate wastes from the body, used in treating whooping coughs, warts, rheumatism and acne. Fever breaker, headache reducer and to be rid of intestinal worms. As a tea, thyme is used to help digestive complaints and respiratory issues. It is also suggested that thyme tea is helpful for urinary health, relieving menstrual cramps, and relieving headaches. Thyme also has antiseptic properties, and is often an ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes. In essential oil form, thyme can be applied to the skin to soothe and relax, as well as help alleviate coughing.
Turmeric Powder (Indian Saffron) Powerful Anti-inflammatory, Menstrual difficulties, chest pain and Colic, inflammatory Bowel Disease, Relief for rheumatoid/Arthritis, Helps for Cystic Fibrosis sufferers, Improve liver function, and Cardiovascular Protection
Uva Ursi Uva Ursi is a diuretic which can help to balance the pH of urine and work as a tonic in the kidneys and bladder. It is often used to help treat urinary tract infections.
Valerian (Natural Sleeping Aid) Is a relaxant herb which has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system. For insomnia drink before bedtime to help induce sleep quickly. Vervain has aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash, and is excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.
Vervain Vervain was regarded as an aura-healing herb to the Druids. It grew in Jerusalem, and said to be the herb that was used to stop the bleeding and heal the wounds of Jesus. In 77 CE, Pliny said that Magi claimed that people who are rubbed with Vervain “obtain their wishes, banish fever, and cure all diseases.” Priests in ancient Rome used vervain to cleanse altars of Jupiter. Vervain as aphrodisiac properties. It can also calm irritability. Vervain tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Excellent for soothing fevers and easing phlegm-based coughing.Ruled by Venus, Vervain is spiritually used for love, purification, healing, money, and protection. It is traditionally gathered on Midsummer. A powerful herb of blessing and consecration when used to ritually “sweep” the altar. Brings love and protection when carried. It is used in a ritual bath or scattered to bring peace. Can be added to personal safety amulets and to attract wealth. For magickal baths, purification incenses, personal safety amulets. Used in love and protection sachets. Can also use to attract wealth. It is an herb of poets, bards, and singers, and has energies of inspiration.
White Oak Bark Used for protection, health, money, healing, potency, fetility, and luck. Oak brings fertility to ideas, projects and harvest magick. Oak has powerful protective powers, and is sacred to Brighid and Dadga. Carrying oak in sachet or spell bottle is said to bring good luck or healing. Surround white oak around a blue candle for healing magick. As a tea, white oak bark may be useful in fighting inflammation and aid in kidney function. A small dose of white oak bark can be added to teas to help combat yeast infections and other reproductive tract infections.
White Willow (An Anti-Inflammatory) Useful in all stomach troubles, especially sour stomach and heartburn. Mostly used for minor aches and pains in the body. Neuralgia, Arthritis, Rheumatism, Bursitis, Lumbago, Inflammatory Skin Condition, Strengthen Digestive Organs,
Wild Yam (Menopausal Friend) Very relaxing to muscles, soothing to nerves, and good for glands. Contains plant progesterone which aids in menopause. Good for arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Wood Betony (The Herb of Sanctity) Head Clearing Relieves Congestion That Can Hang On After A Cold Or Sinus Condition, Digestive Disorders Soothes Indigestion, Heartburn, Dyspepsia, Colic And Gas, Headaches, Circulatory Tonic, Liver Enhancer, Helps Lower High Blood Sugar Levels, Neuralgia, Sciatica, Arthritis, Gout, Rheumatism, Helps Fight Skin Infections, helps clean impurities from the blood, urinary tract inflammation, varicose veins and intestinal worms.
Yarrow (The Wound Healer) Blood Purifier, Digestive System, Fevered Colds, Menstruation, Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, Wounds, High Blood Pressure, Calm an Irritable Bladder, Soothe Painful Joints, Helps eliminate toxins, aids in arthritis symptoms such as swelling and inflammation and aching, sore muscles, stiff joints and back pain. Yarrow is a blood-purifier and can clean toxins out of the blood. It fights infections in the stomach and intestines, and can help soothe digestion problems. Use yarrow tea while fighting fevers and colds, as it breaks fevers and coughs, and fights infection. Soak a bandage in cool yarrow tea and wrap it around a wound for fast healing.
Yellow Dock Root (The Cool Cleanser) Most useful blood purifier, therefore good in all skin problem. Helps tone entire system, soothes the stomach and bowel lining, fights fatigue, removes toxins, reduce inflammation and lymph buildup, aids in decongesting the liver, reducing inflammation, cleaning the blood and increasing the bile flow, used in the treatment of chronic skin complaints such as psoriasis.
*Written in part by Bonnie Taylor (the tea lady!) and Kiki Dombrowski
List of our Teas.. offered at Symmetry
FLAVORS OF WHITE TEA FLAVORS
Peachy White
Silver Leaf White
Strawberry White
FLAVORS OF GREEN TEA
Cherry Green
Dragon Well #4
Green Tea
Green Tea Powder
Gunpowder Green
Jasmine Pearls
Margarita Green
Medley Green
Minted Green
Orange Green
Paradise Green
Sweet Lemon Green
Yun Wu
FLAVORS OF OOLONG TEA
Almond Oolong
Formosa Oolong
Green Oolong
Minted Oolong
Peach Oolong
Vanilla Oolong
FLAVORS OF BLACK TEA
Ambrosia
Apricot Black
Chai Blend
China Black
Cinnamon Spice
Coconut Delight
Cream Earl Grey
English Breakfast
Irish Breakfast
Jamaican Rum Royal
Keemum
Lapsong Souchong
Orange Spice
Oriental Blend
Pu-erh loose leaf
Toucha Tea Balls
Tropicana
Yunnan
FLAVORS OF ROOIBOS
Berry Rooibos
Capetown
Caramel Rooibos
Chai Rooibos
Chocolate Delight Rooibos
Coconut Delight
Earl Grey Rooibos
Honeybush
Key Largo Green Rooibos
Lemon Chiffon Rooibos
Licorice Spice
Mint-Coco Rooibos
Minted Rooibos
Nutty Rooibos
Orange Rooibos
Peach Rooibos
Pecan Pie Rooibos
Rooibos
Simba
Sweetheart
Tiramisu Rooibos
Vanilla Rooibos
FLAVORS OF YERBA MATE
Fiesta Yerba Mate
Minted Yerba Mate
Roasted Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate Powder
FLAVORS OF FRUIT BLENDS
Blood Orange Fruit Tea
Blueberry Blend
Fruit Blend
Fruit Punch
Hawaiian Tropical Fruit
Hibiscus Punch
Masaia Chai Tea
Plum Delicious
Strawberry Apricot
Strawberry Cream
TYPES OF HERBAL BLENDS
AFW
Bladder Cleanse
Calming
Cleansing Blend
Detox Aid
Diet Aid
Diuretic Blend
Energy Blend
Fasting Tea
Fertility Tea Blend
Fourteen Herb
Head and Chest
Helping Heart
Herbal Energizer
IBS Blend
Inflammation and Pain Blend
Liver Cleanse
Menopause Blend
Mind Clearing Mojo
Refreshing Blend
Relief Blend
Sleep Aid - Relaxing Blend
Stress Reducer
Weight Loss
Women's Friend
Peachy White
Silver Leaf White
Strawberry White
FLAVORS OF GREEN TEA
Cherry Green
Dragon Well #4
Green Tea
Green Tea Powder
Gunpowder Green
Jasmine Pearls
Margarita Green
Medley Green
Minted Green
Orange Green
Paradise Green
Sweet Lemon Green
Yun Wu
FLAVORS OF OOLONG TEA
Almond Oolong
Formosa Oolong
Green Oolong
Minted Oolong
Peach Oolong
Vanilla Oolong
FLAVORS OF BLACK TEA
Ambrosia
Apricot Black
Chai Blend
China Black
Cinnamon Spice
Coconut Delight
Cream Earl Grey
English Breakfast
Irish Breakfast
Jamaican Rum Royal
Keemum
Lapsong Souchong
Orange Spice
Oriental Blend
Pu-erh loose leaf
Toucha Tea Balls
Tropicana
Yunnan
FLAVORS OF ROOIBOS
Berry Rooibos
Capetown
Caramel Rooibos
Chai Rooibos
Chocolate Delight Rooibos
Coconut Delight
Earl Grey Rooibos
Honeybush
Key Largo Green Rooibos
Lemon Chiffon Rooibos
Licorice Spice
Mint-Coco Rooibos
Minted Rooibos
Nutty Rooibos
Orange Rooibos
Peach Rooibos
Pecan Pie Rooibos
Rooibos
Simba
Sweetheart
Tiramisu Rooibos
Vanilla Rooibos
FLAVORS OF YERBA MATE
Fiesta Yerba Mate
Minted Yerba Mate
Roasted Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate Powder
FLAVORS OF FRUIT BLENDS
Blood Orange Fruit Tea
Blueberry Blend
Fruit Blend
Fruit Punch
Hawaiian Tropical Fruit
Hibiscus Punch
Masaia Chai Tea
Plum Delicious
Strawberry Apricot
Strawberry Cream
TYPES OF HERBAL BLENDS
AFW
Bladder Cleanse
Calming
Cleansing Blend
Detox Aid
Diet Aid
Diuretic Blend
Energy Blend
Fasting Tea
Fertility Tea Blend
Fourteen Herb
Head and Chest
Helping Heart
Herbal Energizer
IBS Blend
Inflammation and Pain Blend
Liver Cleanse
Menopause Blend
Mind Clearing Mojo
Refreshing Blend
Relief Blend
Sleep Aid - Relaxing Blend
Stress Reducer
Weight Loss
Women's Friend
We have over 30 different types and blends of Incense NOW offered at Symmetry
Focusing on incense produced in USA and blends created at Symmetry!
We carry the most popular scents and blends of incense, focusing on those that burn cleanly.
Below is a list of incense blends created locally here at Symmetry, by Kiki of Kiki's Garden!
Healing Blend
A soothing blend of herbs and oils to assist in healing energies. Use as an incense, simmering potpourri, or in a blue sachet to promote healing. Contains peppermint, lavender, lemon balm, rosemary and oils: lavender, lemon grass, and lime.
Intuition Blend
This enchanting blend of herbs and oils can assist you with opening your third eye. Excellent in psychic spells and can be burned as an incense. Place in a purple sachet with amethyst to enhance intuitive abilities, and keep on hand while doing divination or clairvoyant work. Contains calendula, dandelion leaf, arabic gum, jasmine, and yarrow.
Love Blend
Looking to attract loving energies into your life? This exotic blend of herbs has loving vibrations that will help bring love and romance to you. Use as an incense, simmering potpourri, or in a red sachet to carry with you. Contains rose, lavender, patchouli, damiana, yarrow, and oils: vanilla, gardenia, and frangipani.
Prosperity Blend
Use this earthy blend of herbs and oils to bring prosperity and abundance into your life. Excellent for money spell sachets and bottles, as an incense, or simmering potpourri. Contains patchouli, chamomile, honeysuckle, vervain, and oils: fir needle, patchouli, honeysuckle, and cedar.
Sacred Incense
A blend of frankincense resin and rosemary that will surely bring peace and purity to your sacred space. Also contains fragrant amber resin and myrrh essential oil to add to the divine scent. Please note: due to the resins in the blend, it can be sticky! Simply break it apart and add a small amount on burning charcoal to raise vibrations and purify the energy of an area.
Written by Kiki Dombrowski
We carry the most popular scents and blends of incense, focusing on those that burn cleanly.
Below is a list of incense blends created locally here at Symmetry, by Kiki of Kiki's Garden!
Healing Blend
A soothing blend of herbs and oils to assist in healing energies. Use as an incense, simmering potpourri, or in a blue sachet to promote healing. Contains peppermint, lavender, lemon balm, rosemary and oils: lavender, lemon grass, and lime.
Intuition Blend
This enchanting blend of herbs and oils can assist you with opening your third eye. Excellent in psychic spells and can be burned as an incense. Place in a purple sachet with amethyst to enhance intuitive abilities, and keep on hand while doing divination or clairvoyant work. Contains calendula, dandelion leaf, arabic gum, jasmine, and yarrow.
Love Blend
Looking to attract loving energies into your life? This exotic blend of herbs has loving vibrations that will help bring love and romance to you. Use as an incense, simmering potpourri, or in a red sachet to carry with you. Contains rose, lavender, patchouli, damiana, yarrow, and oils: vanilla, gardenia, and frangipani.
Prosperity Blend
Use this earthy blend of herbs and oils to bring prosperity and abundance into your life. Excellent for money spell sachets and bottles, as an incense, or simmering potpourri. Contains patchouli, chamomile, honeysuckle, vervain, and oils: fir needle, patchouli, honeysuckle, and cedar.
Sacred Incense
A blend of frankincense resin and rosemary that will surely bring peace and purity to your sacred space. Also contains fragrant amber resin and myrrh essential oil to add to the divine scent. Please note: due to the resins in the blend, it can be sticky! Simply break it apart and add a small amount on burning charcoal to raise vibrations and purify the energy of an area.
Written by Kiki Dombrowski
#1 Anti-Cancer Beverage.. GREEN TEA!
Check out this article about Green Tea... the Anti-Cancer Beverage...
http://www.healthy.net/scr/Column.aspx?Id=656
BREAST HEALTH TIP #2: Green Tea Drinking 8-10 cups of green tea a day or taking a daily green tea supplement significantly lowers the risk of breast cancer, and if you have breast cancer, it improves your prognosis. Research shows that green tea inhibits the growth of breast cancer and lowers the risk of breast tumors metastasizing or recurring. Green tea has also been shown to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, while protecting against its dangerous side effects.
Over 4,000 years ago the Chinese began brewing the leaves of a plant and drinking it as a hot beverage. They called the infusion tea. More tea is now consumed everyday by people all over the world than any other liquid -- except water. Research shows drinking tea, especially green tea, is a wise choice because green tea has been found to have many potent health benefits.
THE #1 ANTI-CANCER BEVERAGE
Research shows green tea is very effective in hampering the growth of at least 11 different types of cancer: cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, bladder, prostate, skin, ovaries, and breast. It also reduces the risk of leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and lung cancer in smokers. That’s why green tea is considered the #1 anti-cancer beverage. You may think the impact of drinking a few cups of tea each day on lowering the risk of these cancers is small. It’s not. Cancers of the digestive tract are as much as 68% lower in tea drinkers.
Part of the reason why green tea reduces the risk of so many cancers, is because it contains an exceptional blend of powerful anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. It also holds within it, the remarkable ability to amplify the power of enzymes in our liver that detoxify toxins and carcinogens. Researchers believe most of the health benefits of tea come from substances in it called "polyphenols." There are 3 polyphenols that are considered most important: gallocatechin (GC), epigallocatechin (EGC), and epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC). Of the three, ECGC is the most potent.
LOW LOWERING THE RISK OF BREAST CANCER
Japanese researchers found that women who drink green tea have a lower risk of breast cancer, and women with breast cancer, live much longer than women who don’t drink this miraculous health tonic. For instance, women with stage 1 or 2 breast cancer, who were green tea drinkers before they were diagnosed, were found to have a much better prognosis. A 1998 study found drinking green tea lowers the risk of breast tumors metastasizing, and stops them from recurring, or coming back, after they have been treated. Several studies show the polyphenol in green tea, ECGC, inhibits the growth of breast cancer, and decreases the incidence of the cancer metastasizing to the lungs. A Japanese study of rats with mammary tumors found that 93.8% of the rats given green tea survived, compared to only 33% of the rats who weren’t given green tea. The rats that were given green tea also had smaller tumors than the other rats.
Scientists have mapped out 7 different ways that green tea combats breast cancer. This stellar brew increases the number of protein binders in the blood so that less estrogen is available to attach to receptors in the breast. It also lowers estradiol levels, and increases the number of estrogen and progesterone sensitive receptors in breast cancers found in post-menopausal women. This is important, because tumors with receptors sensitive to these hormones respond better to treatment and have a better prognosis. This extraordinary elixir also helps to block the growth of new blood vessels into the tumor -- a quality that is technically referred to as “anti-angiogenic.” If you are on chemotherapy, green tea is able to enhance the effectiveness of your chemotherapy while at the same time protecting against many of its dangerous side effects. Japanese researchers, Sugiyama and Saduka, published several studies between 1998 and 2003, showing that green tea and some of the individual components in green tea, increase the concentration of chemotherapeutic agents like doxorubicin and Adriamycin in tumors 2.1 -2.9 times, while decreasing their levels in normal tissue. The results are that when green tea in consumed while taking these chemotherapy drugs, tumors have been found to shrink more than they usual do when these pharmaceutical chemicals are given alone. In addition, the organs that are commonly damaged by these anti-cancer drugs, like the heart and liver, are protected from injury by drinking this dynamic green decoction.
MAJOR HEALTH BENEFITS
Hundreds of studies show this verdant beverage has many other impressive health benefits. Green tea decreases your risk of heart attacks and strokes by decreasing cholesterol, blood pressure, and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. It is also superb at killing certain bacteria, especially in the bladder. It’s flair for stopping the propagation of these bladder bugs is revealed by this statistic: tea drinkers have a 40% lower incidence of urinary tract infections. Green tea is a thermogenic. Thermogenics speed up your metabolism and help you lose weight. If you’re concerned about osteoporosis, drink this healthy brew often. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in April 2000 found that women ages 65-75, who drank at least one cup of tea a day, had significantly higher bone densities than women who didn't drink tea. Green tea also aids digestion by increasing the beneficial bacteria in our intestines and decreasing the harmful ones.
MAKING GREEN TEA
Green tea comes from the tea plant, or Camellia sinensis of the family Theacea, for you biologists. It is processed by steaming the leaves at high temperatures. When the leaves are prepared in this way, the important health-promoting substances in the tea, called polyphenols, are preserved. Remember, polyphenols are thought to be responsible for most of green tea's health benefits. Some of these polyphenols are destroyed during the processing of black tea. This is the most probable reason why green tea has been found to have more potent medicinal properties than black tea. To create the best tasting and highest medicinal quality cup of tea, it is recommended to steep your tea bag or loose tea in hot water for about 3-5 minutes.
HOW MUCH TO DRINK
For the maximum protection, it’s recommended to drink 8-10 cups of green tea a day. If you were wondering, green tea does have some caffeine. But there are substances in the tea that seem to modify the effects of the caffeine. Most people don't experience the side effects of caffeine when drinking green tea. The caffeine also appears to be an important component in enhancing green tea's anti-tumor effects. If you don’t think you can drink this much green tea each day, you can take a green tea supplement. Two 250 mg tablets a day are recommended.
THERE'S A GOOD REASON TO BUY ORGANIC
When you are selecting a green tea, it's important to buy "organically grown" tea. As you may recall, organically grown, means that the plant was raised without synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. It also has not had its DNA genetically modified. There is a good reason to be concerned and to favor organic. A recent analysis of several brands of green tea found that they contained traces of the banned estrogenic pesticide, DDT. Although DDT has been banned in this country for over 30 years, other countries still use it. You don’t want to drink something to reduce your risk of cancer, if it contains something that may increase your risk of cancer! Be safe and favor organically grown foods.
http://www.healthy.net/scr/Column.aspx?Id=656
And we have it! Tea for two, organic and locally produced GREEN TEA. NOW at Symmetry, in Nashville, off West end, next to cafe coco!
Dragon Well #4 ~ Most famous Green Tea in China. with a clear yellow infusion & a mellow flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste.
Medley Green ~ Contains milk and nut products. Green tea, almonds, chocolate bits, macadamia nuts,Roman chamomile flowers, pistachios, cracknel bits, cocoa kernels.
Minted Green ~ Spearmint, Peppermint, and Green Tea.
Orange Green ~ Green Tea, Orange Peel, Marigold Petals and Natural Orange Flavor.
Paradise Green ~ Green Tea, Blue Mallow Blossoms, Rhubarb bits and Red Currants
Sweet Lemon Green ~ Green Tea , Lemongrass and Lemon Peel
Tropical Green Storm ~ Green Sencha and green Assam with heavenly mango, passion fruit,pineapple flavor,
blended with hibiscus, rose petals, blue mallow blossoms, sunflower petals,cornflower blossoms and English
Chamomile
Yun Wu Green "Cloud Mist" ~A classic green tea with a pleasant flavor with slight astringent finish.
Tea for two is a local Nashville producer of tea's.. for more information on Miss Bonnie and her mobile tea bar, see http://teafortwoandmore.com
http://www.healthy.net/scr/Column.aspx?Id=656
BREAST HEALTH TIP #2: Green Tea Drinking 8-10 cups of green tea a day or taking a daily green tea supplement significantly lowers the risk of breast cancer, and if you have breast cancer, it improves your prognosis. Research shows that green tea inhibits the growth of breast cancer and lowers the risk of breast tumors metastasizing or recurring. Green tea has also been shown to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, while protecting against its dangerous side effects.
Over 4,000 years ago the Chinese began brewing the leaves of a plant and drinking it as a hot beverage. They called the infusion tea. More tea is now consumed everyday by people all over the world than any other liquid -- except water. Research shows drinking tea, especially green tea, is a wise choice because green tea has been found to have many potent health benefits.
THE #1 ANTI-CANCER BEVERAGE
Research shows green tea is very effective in hampering the growth of at least 11 different types of cancer: cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, bladder, prostate, skin, ovaries, and breast. It also reduces the risk of leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and lung cancer in smokers. That’s why green tea is considered the #1 anti-cancer beverage. You may think the impact of drinking a few cups of tea each day on lowering the risk of these cancers is small. It’s not. Cancers of the digestive tract are as much as 68% lower in tea drinkers.
Part of the reason why green tea reduces the risk of so many cancers, is because it contains an exceptional blend of powerful anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. It also holds within it, the remarkable ability to amplify the power of enzymes in our liver that detoxify toxins and carcinogens. Researchers believe most of the health benefits of tea come from substances in it called "polyphenols." There are 3 polyphenols that are considered most important: gallocatechin (GC), epigallocatechin (EGC), and epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC). Of the three, ECGC is the most potent.
LOW LOWERING THE RISK OF BREAST CANCER
Japanese researchers found that women who drink green tea have a lower risk of breast cancer, and women with breast cancer, live much longer than women who don’t drink this miraculous health tonic. For instance, women with stage 1 or 2 breast cancer, who were green tea drinkers before they were diagnosed, were found to have a much better prognosis. A 1998 study found drinking green tea lowers the risk of breast tumors metastasizing, and stops them from recurring, or coming back, after they have been treated. Several studies show the polyphenol in green tea, ECGC, inhibits the growth of breast cancer, and decreases the incidence of the cancer metastasizing to the lungs. A Japanese study of rats with mammary tumors found that 93.8% of the rats given green tea survived, compared to only 33% of the rats who weren’t given green tea. The rats that were given green tea also had smaller tumors than the other rats.
Scientists have mapped out 7 different ways that green tea combats breast cancer. This stellar brew increases the number of protein binders in the blood so that less estrogen is available to attach to receptors in the breast. It also lowers estradiol levels, and increases the number of estrogen and progesterone sensitive receptors in breast cancers found in post-menopausal women. This is important, because tumors with receptors sensitive to these hormones respond better to treatment and have a better prognosis. This extraordinary elixir also helps to block the growth of new blood vessels into the tumor -- a quality that is technically referred to as “anti-angiogenic.” If you are on chemotherapy, green tea is able to enhance the effectiveness of your chemotherapy while at the same time protecting against many of its dangerous side effects. Japanese researchers, Sugiyama and Saduka, published several studies between 1998 and 2003, showing that green tea and some of the individual components in green tea, increase the concentration of chemotherapeutic agents like doxorubicin and Adriamycin in tumors 2.1 -2.9 times, while decreasing their levels in normal tissue. The results are that when green tea in consumed while taking these chemotherapy drugs, tumors have been found to shrink more than they usual do when these pharmaceutical chemicals are given alone. In addition, the organs that are commonly damaged by these anti-cancer drugs, like the heart and liver, are protected from injury by drinking this dynamic green decoction.
MAJOR HEALTH BENEFITS
Hundreds of studies show this verdant beverage has many other impressive health benefits. Green tea decreases your risk of heart attacks and strokes by decreasing cholesterol, blood pressure, and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. It is also superb at killing certain bacteria, especially in the bladder. It’s flair for stopping the propagation of these bladder bugs is revealed by this statistic: tea drinkers have a 40% lower incidence of urinary tract infections. Green tea is a thermogenic. Thermogenics speed up your metabolism and help you lose weight. If you’re concerned about osteoporosis, drink this healthy brew often. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in April 2000 found that women ages 65-75, who drank at least one cup of tea a day, had significantly higher bone densities than women who didn't drink tea. Green tea also aids digestion by increasing the beneficial bacteria in our intestines and decreasing the harmful ones.
MAKING GREEN TEA
Green tea comes from the tea plant, or Camellia sinensis of the family Theacea, for you biologists. It is processed by steaming the leaves at high temperatures. When the leaves are prepared in this way, the important health-promoting substances in the tea, called polyphenols, are preserved. Remember, polyphenols are thought to be responsible for most of green tea's health benefits. Some of these polyphenols are destroyed during the processing of black tea. This is the most probable reason why green tea has been found to have more potent medicinal properties than black tea. To create the best tasting and highest medicinal quality cup of tea, it is recommended to steep your tea bag or loose tea in hot water for about 3-5 minutes.
HOW MUCH TO DRINK
For the maximum protection, it’s recommended to drink 8-10 cups of green tea a day. If you were wondering, green tea does have some caffeine. But there are substances in the tea that seem to modify the effects of the caffeine. Most people don't experience the side effects of caffeine when drinking green tea. The caffeine also appears to be an important component in enhancing green tea's anti-tumor effects. If you don’t think you can drink this much green tea each day, you can take a green tea supplement. Two 250 mg tablets a day are recommended.
THERE'S A GOOD REASON TO BUY ORGANIC
When you are selecting a green tea, it's important to buy "organically grown" tea. As you may recall, organically grown, means that the plant was raised without synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. It also has not had its DNA genetically modified. There is a good reason to be concerned and to favor organic. A recent analysis of several brands of green tea found that they contained traces of the banned estrogenic pesticide, DDT. Although DDT has been banned in this country for over 30 years, other countries still use it. You don’t want to drink something to reduce your risk of cancer, if it contains something that may increase your risk of cancer! Be safe and favor organically grown foods.
http://www.healthy.net/scr/Column.aspx?Id=656
And we have it! Tea for two, organic and locally produced GREEN TEA. NOW at Symmetry, in Nashville, off West end, next to cafe coco!
Dragon Well #4 ~ Most famous Green Tea in China. with a clear yellow infusion & a mellow flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste.
Medley Green ~ Contains milk and nut products. Green tea, almonds, chocolate bits, macadamia nuts,Roman chamomile flowers, pistachios, cracknel bits, cocoa kernels.
Minted Green ~ Spearmint, Peppermint, and Green Tea.
Orange Green ~ Green Tea, Orange Peel, Marigold Petals and Natural Orange Flavor.
Paradise Green ~ Green Tea, Blue Mallow Blossoms, Rhubarb bits and Red Currants
Sweet Lemon Green ~ Green Tea , Lemongrass and Lemon Peel
Tropical Green Storm ~ Green Sencha and green Assam with heavenly mango, passion fruit,pineapple flavor,
blended with hibiscus, rose petals, blue mallow blossoms, sunflower petals,cornflower blossoms and English
Chamomile
Yun Wu Green "Cloud Mist" ~A classic green tea with a pleasant flavor with slight astringent finish.
Tea for two is a local Nashville producer of tea's.. for more information on Miss Bonnie and her mobile tea bar, see http://teafortwoandmore.com
TEA's.. White, Green, Black, Roobios, Oolong..
So many types of tea... here's an outline from Teafortwoandmore.com on the different types
White Tea
White Tea is the most delicate of all teas. It was originally grown in the Northern Fijian province of China where it flourished for thousands of years.
It is rare and produced on a very limited scale. It is harvested during a very short period in early spring. Only the new leaf buds of distinct varieties of the tea plant are used to produce White tea. Only the youngest leaves still covered with short white hair (down) are selected for the production of white tea. . The silvery-white down found on the underside of the budding leaf gives white tea its name.
White tea goes through processing similar to green tea, which is to say very minimal. Buds are picked before they open, allowed to wither slightly, and then dried with hot air to prevent any oxidation. The selected leaves are steamed and dried in the sun. The absence of fermentation, withering, rolling and oxidation of the leaves allows white tea to contain great concentrations of polyphenols, a possible anti-cancer agent.
White tea is famous for its sweet aroma and delicate, fresh flavor. When brewed, the tea leaves float vertically near the top of the brew and then slowly sinks down. It is packed full of antioxidants and naturally low in caffeine.
Green Tea
All Tea comes from the same plant (Camellia Sinensis), but the difference is in the processing. Green tea is dried, but not fermented. The shorter processing gives green tea a lighter flavor. It also helps keep all the beneficial chemicals intact, which is why green tea is so good for you. Green was given its name because the tea leaves retain most of their color; it is as close to the natural state of the Camellia Sinensis leaf as is possible.
After being picked the leaves are immediately steamed or fired (heated.) The leaves are allowed to wither only slightly after picking and are then rolled and dried. This kills the fermentation enzymes so none takes place due to the stopping of any oxidation in the leaves. After withering, the leaves are pan fried or fired but not fermented preserving the nutrients and vitamins found in green tea.
The last step is to roll the leaves and dry them one last time for its final shape. Many finer teas are still rolled and shaped by hand. This subsequent rolling of the leaves allow the tea to fully release its aroma and taste that has made green tea the most popular tea in Asia. That is why the leaves are green, the liquor so light and the flavor so vegetal or mild
Don't expect green tea to taste like your regular tea. All the different kinds of green tea have different flavors, but they do have a taste in common. The flavor of green tea can be described as: fresh, light, green, or grassy. Some varieties of green tea have a bit of sweetness to them, and some are a little astringent. The health benefits of green tea are seemingly endless. Since the leaves are not fermented, the taste is pleasantly fresh and herbal.
Green tea is rapidly gaining popularity in the Western Culture due to its health benefits. It is high in nutrients, anti oxidants and minerals. It has low caffeine. Green Tea also contains Vitamin C, which helps strengthen our immune system and promote good health. It has fluoride, which helps strengthen our bones and prevent cavities by protecting our teeth.
Green Tea should be appreciated for the subtler taste and light aroma and color.
Oolong Tea
Oolong Tea is a cross between green tea and black tea. They are allowed to oxidize, but only partially as long as black teas. Oolong is a semi-fermented tea that's made from large, mature leaves to produce a full-bodied taste.
After being picked, the leaves are withered to remove moisture. The leaves are allowed to dry in the shade before the semi-fermentation process begins. The first two steps are withering and rolling. Instead of rolling, sometimes shaking is done to bruise the outer edges of the leaves. The oxidation period for oolong is half that of black tea. Once the veins become clear and the edges of the leaves become reddish brown (while the center remains green) the oxidation process is stopped by firing.
For oolong tea, the leaves are heated at a higher temperature so that they can be kept longer due to the lower resulting water content. Oolong Tea encompasses all the tea that is partially fermented. Skillful timing and careful handling during the manufacture process determine the final outcome in your cup.
Oolongs are primarily made in China and Taiwan and can be found with all degrees of oxidation. The teas can range from 8% oxidation levels, to 80% oxidation levels. This wide variance creates a spectrum of flavors, colors, and aromas that range from very green to dark full brews. Oolongs from China tend to be oxidized longer, creating a tea with a fuller body. Taiwan’s Oolongs are oxidized less and have less body however they generally have a greater range of flavor.
Oolongs are designed to be infused several times, each infusion yielding its own special flavor and characteristic. Oolong is known for its pleasant aftertaste and its fruity, sweet aroma and flowery notes are its trademark. . Oolong may be effective with indigestion and helps lower cholesterol
Black Tea
Often used in English tea blends, black tea is the most popular tea in the Western world. Black tea goes through full fermentation during in which the leaf color darkens to give it the black color.
Black Tea is allowed to oxidize before the heat process takes place. Black tea undergoes the most steps in processing to fully oxidize the leaf, allowing natural and robust flavors to emerge. The leaves are allowed to wither/dry on racks for a day after picking, and then they are rolled which bruises and crushes the leaf releasing the juices and enzymes locked inside.
After the leaves are rolled, oils from the leaves are brought to the surface. These aromatic oils aid in the oxidation process, which last for several hours. Fermentation begins during the rolling period, after which the leaves are spread thinly and allowed to oxidize fully. When fermentation is considered
complete, the tea is then fired to stop further oxidation.
The last step consists of placing the leaves in an oven with temperatures reaching up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. When the leaves are 80 percent dry, the leaves complete their drying over wood fires. The resulting product is brownish (sometimes black) in color and is sorted accordingly to size, the larger grade is considered "leaf grade," and smaller "broken grade" are usually used for tea bags. The oxidation that takes place during fermentation is largely responsible for the flavor, color and strength of black tea. The flavor of black tea differs and ranges from flowery and fruity to spicy and nutty and depends on where it’s grown.
Tannin (a puckering quality) is often evident in black tea. A high concentration of flavonoids is found in black tea. This compound helps reduce clotting of arteries and act as an antioxidant that reduces levels of damaging free radicals in the human body.
Rooibos
Rooibos does not qualify as tea. The true definition of Tea is a beverage made from the Camellia Sinensis leaf. Rooibos (Aspalathus Linearis ) is an Afrikaans word for red bush, and it is pronounced ROY-boss.
Rooibos only grows in its natural habitat the Cedarburg mountain area of South Africa, as a unique shrub-like plant. This area takes us back to a world without polluted air or soils; Rooibos is extravagantly rich in naturally-occurring nutrients. It was the locals of the area who first discovered that the fine, needle-like leaves of the ROOIBOS plant made a tasty, aromatic drink. Rooibos has more anti-oxidant properties than Green tea without the caffeine and oxalic acid which can contribute to kidney disease. South Africans were the first to harvest the wild-growing plants. They would chop them with axes and then bruise the leaves and steams right after they were picked with hammers, leaving them to naturally ferment in heaps before drying them in the sun. At a particular point in the plant's ripening process, the leaves develop a deep reddish brown color with a naturally sweet smooth and nutty taste, thus the name "red bush". Rooibos is the only tisane tea that readily accepts cream or milk and is delicious either hot or cold, with sugar or without.
Rooibos comes in two varieties - red (fermented) and green (unfermented). Naturally green, the plant turns red while fermenting. Some studies suggest green rooibos has a higher concentration of many of the nutrients found in the red variety--more flavonoids, anti-oxidants, and minerals. Most people know of the wonderful antioxidant properties of green tea. As great as green tea is, Rooibos leaves its Asian cousin in the dust where nutritional value is concerned. For the record, black tea can't match it for nutritional value either.
Rooibos is widely used for its refreshing taste, and many people believe that it has beneficial effects on health. It first gained popularity as a health drink in South Africa when it was discovered that Rooibos had a soothing effect on babies suffering from colic and restlessness. More and more evidence is now coming to light that Rooibos has favorable medicinal effects.
Health / Ingredient Facts
Beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, high blood pressure, irritability, headaches, stomach cramps, disturbed sleeping patterns, insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression or hypertension, liver diseases, allergies, cataracts, skin irritations and other conditions (especially when applied directly to the affect area), mellitus, atherosclerosis, and colic and feeding problems in infants. The list continues: nausea and vomiting, constipation, stomach ulcers, heartburn.
Low tannin content.
Acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Replenishes iron levels, which is especially helpful to breast-feeding or pregnant women.
No negative side effects ever reported.
Fresh from nature, meaning it is 100% organic, with no additives, preservatives, or colorants.
Completely caffeine-free!
Free from any harmful stimulants.
Boosts the immune system.
Can be mixed with milk, unlike other teas.
Has a natural hint of sweetness, but also tastes great with honey, lemon, and many others!
Contains no oxalic acid, allowing those suffering from kidney stones to drink it freely.
Aids your body's natural schedule, relaxing you at night and stimulating you in the day.
Delicious flavor!
It's also Kosher!
Contains the following nutrients:
NUTRIENT FUNCTION IN THE BODY
Iron (Fe) - Essential for transport of oxygen in the blood
Potassium (K) - Necessary for metabolic function
Copper (Cu) - Necessary for different metabolic processes
Calcium (Ca) - Necessary for strong teeth and bones
Manganese (Mn) - Necessary for metabolic processes and for bone development
Fluoride (F) - Necessary for healthy teeth and bones
Zinc (Zn) - Necessary for normal growth and development and a healthy skin
Magnesium (Mg) - Necessary for a healthy nervous system and for metabolic processes
Sodium (Na) - Necessary for fluid and acid-base balance
White Tea
White Tea is the most delicate of all teas. It was originally grown in the Northern Fijian province of China where it flourished for thousands of years.
It is rare and produced on a very limited scale. It is harvested during a very short period in early spring. Only the new leaf buds of distinct varieties of the tea plant are used to produce White tea. Only the youngest leaves still covered with short white hair (down) are selected for the production of white tea. . The silvery-white down found on the underside of the budding leaf gives white tea its name.
White tea goes through processing similar to green tea, which is to say very minimal. Buds are picked before they open, allowed to wither slightly, and then dried with hot air to prevent any oxidation. The selected leaves are steamed and dried in the sun. The absence of fermentation, withering, rolling and oxidation of the leaves allows white tea to contain great concentrations of polyphenols, a possible anti-cancer agent.
White tea is famous for its sweet aroma and delicate, fresh flavor. When brewed, the tea leaves float vertically near the top of the brew and then slowly sinks down. It is packed full of antioxidants and naturally low in caffeine.
Green Tea
All Tea comes from the same plant (Camellia Sinensis), but the difference is in the processing. Green tea is dried, but not fermented. The shorter processing gives green tea a lighter flavor. It also helps keep all the beneficial chemicals intact, which is why green tea is so good for you. Green was given its name because the tea leaves retain most of their color; it is as close to the natural state of the Camellia Sinensis leaf as is possible.
After being picked the leaves are immediately steamed or fired (heated.) The leaves are allowed to wither only slightly after picking and are then rolled and dried. This kills the fermentation enzymes so none takes place due to the stopping of any oxidation in the leaves. After withering, the leaves are pan fried or fired but not fermented preserving the nutrients and vitamins found in green tea.
The last step is to roll the leaves and dry them one last time for its final shape. Many finer teas are still rolled and shaped by hand. This subsequent rolling of the leaves allow the tea to fully release its aroma and taste that has made green tea the most popular tea in Asia. That is why the leaves are green, the liquor so light and the flavor so vegetal or mild
Don't expect green tea to taste like your regular tea. All the different kinds of green tea have different flavors, but they do have a taste in common. The flavor of green tea can be described as: fresh, light, green, or grassy. Some varieties of green tea have a bit of sweetness to them, and some are a little astringent. The health benefits of green tea are seemingly endless. Since the leaves are not fermented, the taste is pleasantly fresh and herbal.
Green tea is rapidly gaining popularity in the Western Culture due to its health benefits. It is high in nutrients, anti oxidants and minerals. It has low caffeine. Green Tea also contains Vitamin C, which helps strengthen our immune system and promote good health. It has fluoride, which helps strengthen our bones and prevent cavities by protecting our teeth.
Green Tea should be appreciated for the subtler taste and light aroma and color.
Oolong Tea
Oolong Tea is a cross between green tea and black tea. They are allowed to oxidize, but only partially as long as black teas. Oolong is a semi-fermented tea that's made from large, mature leaves to produce a full-bodied taste.
After being picked, the leaves are withered to remove moisture. The leaves are allowed to dry in the shade before the semi-fermentation process begins. The first two steps are withering and rolling. Instead of rolling, sometimes shaking is done to bruise the outer edges of the leaves. The oxidation period for oolong is half that of black tea. Once the veins become clear and the edges of the leaves become reddish brown (while the center remains green) the oxidation process is stopped by firing.
For oolong tea, the leaves are heated at a higher temperature so that they can be kept longer due to the lower resulting water content. Oolong Tea encompasses all the tea that is partially fermented. Skillful timing and careful handling during the manufacture process determine the final outcome in your cup.
Oolongs are primarily made in China and Taiwan and can be found with all degrees of oxidation. The teas can range from 8% oxidation levels, to 80% oxidation levels. This wide variance creates a spectrum of flavors, colors, and aromas that range from very green to dark full brews. Oolongs from China tend to be oxidized longer, creating a tea with a fuller body. Taiwan’s Oolongs are oxidized less and have less body however they generally have a greater range of flavor.
Oolongs are designed to be infused several times, each infusion yielding its own special flavor and characteristic. Oolong is known for its pleasant aftertaste and its fruity, sweet aroma and flowery notes are its trademark. . Oolong may be effective with indigestion and helps lower cholesterol
Black Tea
Often used in English tea blends, black tea is the most popular tea in the Western world. Black tea goes through full fermentation during in which the leaf color darkens to give it the black color.
Black Tea is allowed to oxidize before the heat process takes place. Black tea undergoes the most steps in processing to fully oxidize the leaf, allowing natural and robust flavors to emerge. The leaves are allowed to wither/dry on racks for a day after picking, and then they are rolled which bruises and crushes the leaf releasing the juices and enzymes locked inside.
After the leaves are rolled, oils from the leaves are brought to the surface. These aromatic oils aid in the oxidation process, which last for several hours. Fermentation begins during the rolling period, after which the leaves are spread thinly and allowed to oxidize fully. When fermentation is considered
complete, the tea is then fired to stop further oxidation.
The last step consists of placing the leaves in an oven with temperatures reaching up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. When the leaves are 80 percent dry, the leaves complete their drying over wood fires. The resulting product is brownish (sometimes black) in color and is sorted accordingly to size, the larger grade is considered "leaf grade," and smaller "broken grade" are usually used for tea bags. The oxidation that takes place during fermentation is largely responsible for the flavor, color and strength of black tea. The flavor of black tea differs and ranges from flowery and fruity to spicy and nutty and depends on where it’s grown.
Tannin (a puckering quality) is often evident in black tea. A high concentration of flavonoids is found in black tea. This compound helps reduce clotting of arteries and act as an antioxidant that reduces levels of damaging free radicals in the human body.
Rooibos
Rooibos does not qualify as tea. The true definition of Tea is a beverage made from the Camellia Sinensis leaf. Rooibos (Aspalathus Linearis ) is an Afrikaans word for red bush, and it is pronounced ROY-boss.
Rooibos only grows in its natural habitat the Cedarburg mountain area of South Africa, as a unique shrub-like plant. This area takes us back to a world without polluted air or soils; Rooibos is extravagantly rich in naturally-occurring nutrients. It was the locals of the area who first discovered that the fine, needle-like leaves of the ROOIBOS plant made a tasty, aromatic drink. Rooibos has more anti-oxidant properties than Green tea without the caffeine and oxalic acid which can contribute to kidney disease. South Africans were the first to harvest the wild-growing plants. They would chop them with axes and then bruise the leaves and steams right after they were picked with hammers, leaving them to naturally ferment in heaps before drying them in the sun. At a particular point in the plant's ripening process, the leaves develop a deep reddish brown color with a naturally sweet smooth and nutty taste, thus the name "red bush". Rooibos is the only tisane tea that readily accepts cream or milk and is delicious either hot or cold, with sugar or without.
Rooibos comes in two varieties - red (fermented) and green (unfermented). Naturally green, the plant turns red while fermenting. Some studies suggest green rooibos has a higher concentration of many of the nutrients found in the red variety--more flavonoids, anti-oxidants, and minerals. Most people know of the wonderful antioxidant properties of green tea. As great as green tea is, Rooibos leaves its Asian cousin in the dust where nutritional value is concerned. For the record, black tea can't match it for nutritional value either.
Rooibos is widely used for its refreshing taste, and many people believe that it has beneficial effects on health. It first gained popularity as a health drink in South Africa when it was discovered that Rooibos had a soothing effect on babies suffering from colic and restlessness. More and more evidence is now coming to light that Rooibos has favorable medicinal effects.
Health / Ingredient Facts
Beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, high blood pressure, irritability, headaches, stomach cramps, disturbed sleeping patterns, insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression or hypertension, liver diseases, allergies, cataracts, skin irritations and other conditions (especially when applied directly to the affect area), mellitus, atherosclerosis, and colic and feeding problems in infants. The list continues: nausea and vomiting, constipation, stomach ulcers, heartburn.
Low tannin content.
Acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Replenishes iron levels, which is especially helpful to breast-feeding or pregnant women.
No negative side effects ever reported.
Fresh from nature, meaning it is 100% organic, with no additives, preservatives, or colorants.
Completely caffeine-free!
Free from any harmful stimulants.
Boosts the immune system.
Can be mixed with milk, unlike other teas.
Has a natural hint of sweetness, but also tastes great with honey, lemon, and many others!
Contains no oxalic acid, allowing those suffering from kidney stones to drink it freely.
Aids your body's natural schedule, relaxing you at night and stimulating you in the day.
Delicious flavor!
It's also Kosher!
Contains the following nutrients:
NUTRIENT FUNCTION IN THE BODY
Iron (Fe) - Essential for transport of oxygen in the blood
Potassium (K) - Necessary for metabolic function
Copper (Cu) - Necessary for different metabolic processes
Calcium (Ca) - Necessary for strong teeth and bones
Manganese (Mn) - Necessary for metabolic processes and for bone development
Fluoride (F) - Necessary for healthy teeth and bones
Zinc (Zn) - Necessary for normal growth and development and a healthy skin
Magnesium (Mg) - Necessary for a healthy nervous system and for metabolic processes
Sodium (Na) - Necessary for fluid and acid-base balance
Epsom Salts for Detox!
Epsom salts can draw toxins out of your body. Start with a very clean tub, take a shower first, then fill the tub with the hottest water you can stand. Begin with l/4 cup of epsom salts, work up gradually to 4 cups, and as long as l/2 hour. If you experience light-headedness, drain the tub, and wait until you feel steady to leave the tub. Otherwise, take a shower after and dry off with a clean towel.
With dry skin brushing, essential oils and soothing music, this can be a luxurious, yet inexpensive detox technique.
With dry skin brushing, essential oils and soothing music, this can be a luxurious, yet inexpensive detox technique.
Herbal Medicine vs. Allopathic Medicine
Written by Anita Burns
I want to start out by first stating that I am not anti-modern medicine. I have great faith in our modern medical system for most things. If I were to break a bone, or require emergency surgery, I wouldn’t want to stick strictly to herbal medicine. I believe that both systems have a right and good place in healing.
For centuries Europeans and Asians viewed disease as a dysfunction of the whole body, or a whole system. Cures were aimed at bringing the body back into balance so that it could heal itself.
Although traditional thought on disease also included superstition, ignorance of anatomy, and in some places unhealthy beliefs about hygiene, much that was useful about medicine was known and practiced.
In both East and West, disease was often cured with plants that were either proven or intuited to have an effect on a particular system in the body that was injured or unbalanced. In Europe, the "Five Humors" theory was developed. In the near east, the "Three Dosha Ayurvedic" system was the basis of medicine. In the Far East, the "Five Elements" theory was practiced.
Superstition about demons, curses, and in Europe, lack of basic knowledge of hygiene aside, these systems were mostly effective. In the opinion of some alternative health researchers today, they were as effective as modern allopathic method for many diseases.
Not much is known about medical practices of Africa (except for ancient Egypt), and the ancient Americas, but they too, used herbs and plants, along with surgery and other medical techniques.
In the last two centuries, there has been a rise in the “scientific method,” a way of investigating and “proving,” in the Newtonian sense, whether a substance really works as a medicinal or not and in what way.
In the western world, especially North America, allopathic medicine took root and holistic medicine, viewed as old fashioned and unscientific, was pushed more and more into the background. In Europe and Asia, with centuries more behind them of holistic practices, both schools of though and medicine practices are accepted and sometimes integrated. However, in the United States, allopathic medicine has taken hold and has tried—and is still trying—to stamp out any other form of health care.
Allopathic medicine promotes the belief that most disease is caused by a pathogen invading the body and that an anti-pathogen can destroy the invader to heal the body. Although great strides have been made in the cure of many diseases, often the allopathic medicines create side effects almost as disastrous as the disease itself.
With the possible exception of cancer and aids, we are no longer in a disease crisis in the United States as we were when smallpox, polio, fatal influenza, TB, and more were rampant. However, we are in a health crisis. By ignoring the whole body in favor of allopathic specificity, we have swung the pendulum too far to one side.
Health is not just the absence of disease. It is vitality, energy, clear thought, immunity, and strength. How we treat our minds and bodies has an effect on health. We are ultimately responsible for the health and well being of our bodies. However, somewhere along the way, we seemed to have abandoned that belief.
We have adopted a code that says we put the responsibility for health in the hands of a select few who have legal and actual power over our life and death. Unfortunately, even Medical Doctors (MDs) have been caught in their own trap. For an MD to recommend any form of holistic medicine—acupressure, chiropractic, herbs, homeopathies, and such, is often to risk their reputation and their future as licensed doctors that they worked so long and hard to achieve.
The public has made this worse by relinquishing any responsibility for their own care and well being. If a doctor recommends herbs or another form of card and the patient isn’t cured, he/she can sue the doctor. Doctors live in constant dread of malpractice lawsuits, which is one factor in the high cost of malpractice insurance that runs up the cost of medical care.
Granted, there are tons of MDs who are so incompetent that they deserve the lawsuits but many are simply doing what they can in an atmosphere of a sue-happy public. They trap works both ways. Laws in the United States often take away our right to choose health care and force us into the form of health care that has gained the most power through government lobbying and economic considerations. This led to a massive public outcry in 1993 that resulted in some concessions by the government to allow more freedom of choice where over the counter herbs are concerned. Nevertheless, it really did very little to open the field in an equitable way.
An herbalist in the United States cannot legally diagnose nor prescribe an herb for anything, even as simple as white willow bark for a headache. Nor can an herbalist suggest that you take an aspirin.
Herbalism is a system that takes into account pathogens, whole body balance, body chemistry, tradition, and scientific proof of the herb’s effectiveness in treating disease. In many places in Europe, herbalism is an accepted health care choice, as is naturopathy, homeopathy, and aromatherapy. In the United States, the FDA is gaining more and more power to tell us what we need to do for our well being, and what we can’t do.
Originally, health regulation was intended to protect us from charlatans pushing “snake oil cures” and bogus cancer cures. But, when economics entered the picture, Pandora’s box was opened. In 1993, the spark that flamed the public outcry was a proposed regulation that would require all herbs and vitamins to be dispensed only through prescription by licensed physicians. It would have made it a crime to take vitamin C or by garlic capsules without a prescription from a doctor. The prices for herbs and vitamins would probably have soared and we would have been cut off from one more avenue of health care.
Even with the current trend in insurance companies covering or offering discounted alternative health care services, we must not relax. WE must take back our right to have dominion over our own bodies and have the right to choose our health care. If regulation of herbs comes in the way, the FDA has made it clear it wants it to, herbal companies will be forced to spend millions of dollars in testing for each herb before the FDA would approve their use as a medicinal. Previous testings or centuries of proven efficacy in use would not be accepted.
Herbal companies would then have to recoup their expenditures by increasing their prices. Imagine spending $80 for a bottle of Milk Thistle tincture instead of $5-$12. In addition, many useful herbs would simply disappear because they are too easy to obtain cheaply in the wild (like milk thistle) or can be homegrown. Herbal companies couldn’t risk not recouping their losses and would likely drop them from their inventory.
Herbalism has a long history. We don’t know when humans first decided and discovered that some plants did more than nourish the body by feeding the belly. Perhaps it was by watching what some animals did when feeling ill, or by “divine intervention.” We don’t know.
However, as far back as we have written evidence of medical practices, we have reports of herbs and plants successfully used as medicine. Garlic may be the oldest known medicinal plant. Garlic cloves have been found in caves inhabited 10,000 years ago. A prescription for garlic was found on a Sumerian clay tablet from 3000 B.C. Chinese doctors mentioned Cinnamon as a medicinal as far back as 2700 B.C. Since then, there has been a lot of scientific testing on herbs including testing by the United States government.
Herbalism works closely with the body’s own immune system. You may be surprised to learn that the American Medical Association (AMA) has only recently recognized the body’s immune system at al in relation to health. It has also come as a recent surprise to the AMA that nutrition, exercise, and mental/emotional attitudes affect health.
Preventing ill health and disease has been a longstanding tradition among holistic health practices but has arrived as a new and innovative—if somewhat suspicious—concept to modern U.S. allopathic physicians.
It is finally coming to light (again) that we can only defeat illness by paying more attention to health and less attention to treating disease. However, there is also a trend for some MDs and some lay people to want herbs to act as a lateral substitute for allopathic medicines—to treat pathogens and ignore the rest of health. In other words, they are trying to pound a square peg into a round hole.
With herbs, the whole system must be taken into account and they generally do not work quickly and miraculously to erase symptoms as do many allopathic medicines. Most herbs work more slowly, and in combination with other herbs, to help the body regain health on its own. Sometimes this comes quickly, sometimes slowly, but true health is regained, not just a suppression of symptoms without examining lifestyle and emotional causative factors.
In a “natural supplement” retail where I once worked, we had customers who made the same mistake. They would come in and ask me “What do you have for energy?” They may work 14 hours a day, take care of a family and spouse, sleep four hours a night, eat mostly caffeine, fat, and sugar but they wan the magical pill that will eliminate fatigue. A suggestion of seeing a physician for a check up, proper diet, and rest as a possible relief from fatigue would be rejected and they would buy a bottle of Guarana. Guarana a natural source for strong caffeine. It can be useful for a burst of energy but if proper rest and nutrition are ignored, the body can be depleted even further possibly resulting in more serious health problems.
Herbs are not drugs. However, by their complex structures, medicinal foods (herbs) create many of the same benefits as drugs—mostly without unpleasant side effects.
For example, in a Nutrilite press release dated January 7, 2000, researchers conducted a six-month study of lutein. In the study, “blood levels of lutein increased by 28% in 21 participants, closely matching levels found in individuals who consume lutein-rich diets incorporating yellow and green fruits and vegetables. The rise was small but still significant. Researchers believe this may lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects roughly 1.7 million people over the age of 65.”
There have been numerous studies on garlic’s power to lower cholesterol in contrast to prescription drugs such as cholestyramine. Garlic has been proven to lower cholesterol and any herbalist worth his/her salt would combine garlic with other supporting herbs for a cholesterol lowering formula. But because cholestyramine is economically a money maker and garlic is not, pharmaceutical companies are not going to recommend that doctors prescribe garlic. Doctors who do—assuming they are aware of garlic’s ability in that area—risk ridicule and expulsion from membership in professional organizations such as the AMA.
How to get proof that herbs work as they are reputed to work and how to separate unfounded folklore and placebo from actual medicinal uses of plants is a problem. However, it is less so thanks to the open mindedness of many new researchers in the world. Studies done in France, Germany, China, England, and more abound. Much folklore about herbs has proven true, but much as also been discovered to be false. For example, boneset—eupatorium perfolatum—may sound like an herb to heal bones and some folklore prescribes it for that but it’s name comes from a traditional use as a cure for breakbone fever. It has proven to be useful in treating minor viral and bacterial infections by stimulating the white blood cells into action.
Folklore prescribes juniper for sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea. However, scientific testing shows it to be ineffective. Juniper does act as a diuretic and is included in an over-the-counter PMS medicine. It is effective as a part of an overall treatment for high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. High doses, over a long period of time can irritate the kidneys.
Be cautious of herbal books that do not take modern findings about the nature and action of herbs into account. Some recommended authors are Michael Castleman, Daniel B. Bowrey, Leslie & Michael Tierra, and David Hoffman.
Keep in mind that you are ultimately responsible for your health. No herb will make you healthy as long as you engage in unhealthy lifestyle habits such as eating a diet containing mostly foods devoid of proper nutrition, smoking, lack of exercise, and emotional stress. Herbs counteract pathogens and help your body heal itself but are not an excuse to engage in a disastrous, indulgent lifestyle.
http://www.metastudies.com/store/product.php?xProd=182
I want to start out by first stating that I am not anti-modern medicine. I have great faith in our modern medical system for most things. If I were to break a bone, or require emergency surgery, I wouldn’t want to stick strictly to herbal medicine. I believe that both systems have a right and good place in healing.
For centuries Europeans and Asians viewed disease as a dysfunction of the whole body, or a whole system. Cures were aimed at bringing the body back into balance so that it could heal itself.
Although traditional thought on disease also included superstition, ignorance of anatomy, and in some places unhealthy beliefs about hygiene, much that was useful about medicine was known and practiced.
In both East and West, disease was often cured with plants that were either proven or intuited to have an effect on a particular system in the body that was injured or unbalanced. In Europe, the "Five Humors" theory was developed. In the near east, the "Three Dosha Ayurvedic" system was the basis of medicine. In the Far East, the "Five Elements" theory was practiced.
Superstition about demons, curses, and in Europe, lack of basic knowledge of hygiene aside, these systems were mostly effective. In the opinion of some alternative health researchers today, they were as effective as modern allopathic method for many diseases.
Not much is known about medical practices of Africa (except for ancient Egypt), and the ancient Americas, but they too, used herbs and plants, along with surgery and other medical techniques.
In the last two centuries, there has been a rise in the “scientific method,” a way of investigating and “proving,” in the Newtonian sense, whether a substance really works as a medicinal or not and in what way.
In the western world, especially North America, allopathic medicine took root and holistic medicine, viewed as old fashioned and unscientific, was pushed more and more into the background. In Europe and Asia, with centuries more behind them of holistic practices, both schools of though and medicine practices are accepted and sometimes integrated. However, in the United States, allopathic medicine has taken hold and has tried—and is still trying—to stamp out any other form of health care.
Allopathic medicine promotes the belief that most disease is caused by a pathogen invading the body and that an anti-pathogen can destroy the invader to heal the body. Although great strides have been made in the cure of many diseases, often the allopathic medicines create side effects almost as disastrous as the disease itself.
With the possible exception of cancer and aids, we are no longer in a disease crisis in the United States as we were when smallpox, polio, fatal influenza, TB, and more were rampant. However, we are in a health crisis. By ignoring the whole body in favor of allopathic specificity, we have swung the pendulum too far to one side.
Health is not just the absence of disease. It is vitality, energy, clear thought, immunity, and strength. How we treat our minds and bodies has an effect on health. We are ultimately responsible for the health and well being of our bodies. However, somewhere along the way, we seemed to have abandoned that belief.
We have adopted a code that says we put the responsibility for health in the hands of a select few who have legal and actual power over our life and death. Unfortunately, even Medical Doctors (MDs) have been caught in their own trap. For an MD to recommend any form of holistic medicine—acupressure, chiropractic, herbs, homeopathies, and such, is often to risk their reputation and their future as licensed doctors that they worked so long and hard to achieve.
The public has made this worse by relinquishing any responsibility for their own care and well being. If a doctor recommends herbs or another form of card and the patient isn’t cured, he/she can sue the doctor. Doctors live in constant dread of malpractice lawsuits, which is one factor in the high cost of malpractice insurance that runs up the cost of medical care.
Granted, there are tons of MDs who are so incompetent that they deserve the lawsuits but many are simply doing what they can in an atmosphere of a sue-happy public. They trap works both ways. Laws in the United States often take away our right to choose health care and force us into the form of health care that has gained the most power through government lobbying and economic considerations. This led to a massive public outcry in 1993 that resulted in some concessions by the government to allow more freedom of choice where over the counter herbs are concerned. Nevertheless, it really did very little to open the field in an equitable way.
An herbalist in the United States cannot legally diagnose nor prescribe an herb for anything, even as simple as white willow bark for a headache. Nor can an herbalist suggest that you take an aspirin.
Herbalism is a system that takes into account pathogens, whole body balance, body chemistry, tradition, and scientific proof of the herb’s effectiveness in treating disease. In many places in Europe, herbalism is an accepted health care choice, as is naturopathy, homeopathy, and aromatherapy. In the United States, the FDA is gaining more and more power to tell us what we need to do for our well being, and what we can’t do.
Originally, health regulation was intended to protect us from charlatans pushing “snake oil cures” and bogus cancer cures. But, when economics entered the picture, Pandora’s box was opened. In 1993, the spark that flamed the public outcry was a proposed regulation that would require all herbs and vitamins to be dispensed only through prescription by licensed physicians. It would have made it a crime to take vitamin C or by garlic capsules without a prescription from a doctor. The prices for herbs and vitamins would probably have soared and we would have been cut off from one more avenue of health care.
Even with the current trend in insurance companies covering or offering discounted alternative health care services, we must not relax. WE must take back our right to have dominion over our own bodies and have the right to choose our health care. If regulation of herbs comes in the way, the FDA has made it clear it wants it to, herbal companies will be forced to spend millions of dollars in testing for each herb before the FDA would approve their use as a medicinal. Previous testings or centuries of proven efficacy in use would not be accepted.
Herbal companies would then have to recoup their expenditures by increasing their prices. Imagine spending $80 for a bottle of Milk Thistle tincture instead of $5-$12. In addition, many useful herbs would simply disappear because they are too easy to obtain cheaply in the wild (like milk thistle) or can be homegrown. Herbal companies couldn’t risk not recouping their losses and would likely drop them from their inventory.
Herbalism has a long history. We don’t know when humans first decided and discovered that some plants did more than nourish the body by feeding the belly. Perhaps it was by watching what some animals did when feeling ill, or by “divine intervention.” We don’t know.
However, as far back as we have written evidence of medical practices, we have reports of herbs and plants successfully used as medicine. Garlic may be the oldest known medicinal plant. Garlic cloves have been found in caves inhabited 10,000 years ago. A prescription for garlic was found on a Sumerian clay tablet from 3000 B.C. Chinese doctors mentioned Cinnamon as a medicinal as far back as 2700 B.C. Since then, there has been a lot of scientific testing on herbs including testing by the United States government.
Herbalism works closely with the body’s own immune system. You may be surprised to learn that the American Medical Association (AMA) has only recently recognized the body’s immune system at al in relation to health. It has also come as a recent surprise to the AMA that nutrition, exercise, and mental/emotional attitudes affect health.
Preventing ill health and disease has been a longstanding tradition among holistic health practices but has arrived as a new and innovative—if somewhat suspicious—concept to modern U.S. allopathic physicians.
It is finally coming to light (again) that we can only defeat illness by paying more attention to health and less attention to treating disease. However, there is also a trend for some MDs and some lay people to want herbs to act as a lateral substitute for allopathic medicines—to treat pathogens and ignore the rest of health. In other words, they are trying to pound a square peg into a round hole.
With herbs, the whole system must be taken into account and they generally do not work quickly and miraculously to erase symptoms as do many allopathic medicines. Most herbs work more slowly, and in combination with other herbs, to help the body regain health on its own. Sometimes this comes quickly, sometimes slowly, but true health is regained, not just a suppression of symptoms without examining lifestyle and emotional causative factors.
In a “natural supplement” retail where I once worked, we had customers who made the same mistake. They would come in and ask me “What do you have for energy?” They may work 14 hours a day, take care of a family and spouse, sleep four hours a night, eat mostly caffeine, fat, and sugar but they wan the magical pill that will eliminate fatigue. A suggestion of seeing a physician for a check up, proper diet, and rest as a possible relief from fatigue would be rejected and they would buy a bottle of Guarana. Guarana a natural source for strong caffeine. It can be useful for a burst of energy but if proper rest and nutrition are ignored, the body can be depleted even further possibly resulting in more serious health problems.
Herbs are not drugs. However, by their complex structures, medicinal foods (herbs) create many of the same benefits as drugs—mostly without unpleasant side effects.
For example, in a Nutrilite press release dated January 7, 2000, researchers conducted a six-month study of lutein. In the study, “blood levels of lutein increased by 28% in 21 participants, closely matching levels found in individuals who consume lutein-rich diets incorporating yellow and green fruits and vegetables. The rise was small but still significant. Researchers believe this may lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects roughly 1.7 million people over the age of 65.”
There have been numerous studies on garlic’s power to lower cholesterol in contrast to prescription drugs such as cholestyramine. Garlic has been proven to lower cholesterol and any herbalist worth his/her salt would combine garlic with other supporting herbs for a cholesterol lowering formula. But because cholestyramine is economically a money maker and garlic is not, pharmaceutical companies are not going to recommend that doctors prescribe garlic. Doctors who do—assuming they are aware of garlic’s ability in that area—risk ridicule and expulsion from membership in professional organizations such as the AMA.
How to get proof that herbs work as they are reputed to work and how to separate unfounded folklore and placebo from actual medicinal uses of plants is a problem. However, it is less so thanks to the open mindedness of many new researchers in the world. Studies done in France, Germany, China, England, and more abound. Much folklore about herbs has proven true, but much as also been discovered to be false. For example, boneset—eupatorium perfolatum—may sound like an herb to heal bones and some folklore prescribes it for that but it’s name comes from a traditional use as a cure for breakbone fever. It has proven to be useful in treating minor viral and bacterial infections by stimulating the white blood cells into action.
Folklore prescribes juniper for sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea. However, scientific testing shows it to be ineffective. Juniper does act as a diuretic and is included in an over-the-counter PMS medicine. It is effective as a part of an overall treatment for high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. High doses, over a long period of time can irritate the kidneys.
Be cautious of herbal books that do not take modern findings about the nature and action of herbs into account. Some recommended authors are Michael Castleman, Daniel B. Bowrey, Leslie & Michael Tierra, and David Hoffman.
Keep in mind that you are ultimately responsible for your health. No herb will make you healthy as long as you engage in unhealthy lifestyle habits such as eating a diet containing mostly foods devoid of proper nutrition, smoking, lack of exercise, and emotional stress. Herbs counteract pathogens and help your body heal itself but are not an excuse to engage in a disastrous, indulgent lifestyle.
http://www.metastudies.com/store/product.php?xProd=182
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