Healing Herbs - Part 1

There are literally thousands of herbs that are used for healing around the world. Most herbs can be taken in capsule, tablet or liquid forms as well as in teas. Here are just five of some of the most popular healing herbs and instructions for using them. Of course, if you are pregnant or have serious health problems, be sure to talk to your doctor before using medicinal herbs.

1. Anise:

Eases hot flashes and other menopausal problems. Helps relieve gas.

Crush 1 tsp. of seeds and steep in boiling water to make a tea.

2. Chamomile:

Good for indigestion and gas and for easing sore throat.

Pour boiling water over 1-2 Tbsp. of herb and steep to make a tea.

3. Echinacea:

Strengthens the immune system.

Take 1/2 tsp. of tincture 3 times a day at the first sign of a cold. Or pour boiling water over 1/2 tsp. of coarsely powdered dried herb and steep to make a tea.

4. Fennel:

Eases hot flashes and other menopausal problems. Helps settle the stomach.

Crush 1-2 tsp. of seeds and steep in boiling water to make a tea.

5. Feverfew:

Helps prevent and relieve migraines.

Eat 2-3 fresh leaves a day.

Source: The Doctors Book of Food Remedies: The Newest Discoveries in the Power of Food to Treat and Prevent Health Problems-From Aging and Diabetes to Ulcers by Selene Yeager and the Editors of Prevention Health Books.
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Is Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil beneficial for your health?

I've heard that coconut oil (the good kind) is supposed to be good for the thyroid, and now I'm starting to believe it. I've been using about 3 Tablespoons of extra-virgin coconut oil in my smoothies, not every day but probably at least 4 to 5 times a week, and I'm not feeling as tired as I was. In fact, I've had some trouble going to sleep for the past two nights because I have my smoothie late in the evening, and then I'm not tired when I go to bed. I guess I should change my smoothie times.

I've also noticed I'm not feeling as cold as I was, and I think I'm actually gaining some fat underneath my skin on my face. This is a good thing for me because I was looking kind of gaunt, and my chiropractor said he could use me as his skeleton since I am so skinny. A symptom of hypothyroidism is supposed to be weight gain but this has never been the case for me.

I'm anxious to see if my hair stops falling out in the shower and if my skin is dry this winter. In the meantime, I think I'll keep using the coconut oil because I think it's having a positive impact on my health. Read more!