Category: Herbal Recipes

This cooling and anti-inflammatory poultice helps relieve itching, reduce inflammation, and draw out toxins caused by poison ivy exposure.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Jewelweed leaves or stems (Impatiens capensis) – Best natural remedy for poison ivy; neutralizes urushiol (the irritant in poison ivy)
• 1 tablespoon Plantain leaves (Plantago major) – Soothes itching and promotes healing
• 1 tablespoon Bentonite clay – Draws out toxins and dries oozing blisters
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda – Reduces inflammation and neutralizes irritation
• 1 teaspoon Aloe Vera gel – Cools and soothes the skin
• Enough cool water or Witch Hazel to form a paste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herbs:
   • If using fresh Jewelweed and Plantain, chop or crush them into a paste.
   • If using dried herbs, grind them into a fine powder or rehydrate them with a small amount of water.
2. Make the Poultice:
   • Mix the herbs with bentonite clay and baking soda in a small bowl.
   • Add aloe vera gel and a little witch hazel or cool water until a thick, spreadable paste forms.
3. Apply to Affected Area:
   • Spread the poultice directly onto the poison ivy rash in a thick layer.
   • Cover with a clean cloth or gauze to keep it in place.
   • Leave on for 20–30 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
4. Repeat as Needed:
   • Apply 1–3 times daily until symptoms improve.

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Alternative Additions:

• Colloidal Oatmeal – Reduces itching and inflammation.
• Lavender or Tea Tree Essential Oil (1–2 drops) – Helps with skin healing and prevents infection.
• Chamomile Tea (cooled) – Can be used instead of water for extra soothing properties.

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Precautions:

• Do NOT scratch the affected area, as it can spread the rash.
• If severe blistering or signs of infection appear, consult a healthcare provider.

This cooling, anti-inflammatory poultice helps reduce itching, redness, and irritation associated with eczema and other skin rashes.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried or fresh Plantain leaves (Plantago major) – Anti-inflammatory, soothes irritation
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh Calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis) – Heals and reduces redness
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh Chamomile flowers (Matricaria chamomilla) – Calms inflammation and relieves itch
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) – Anti-inflammatory, supports healing
• 1 teaspoon Bentonite clay (optional, for drawing out toxins)
• Enough Aloe Vera gel or cooled Chamomile tea to form a paste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herbs:
   • If using fresh herbs, chop them finely or grind into a paste using a mortar and pestle.
   • If using dried herbs, mix them in a small bowl.
2. Make the Poultice:
   • Add aloe vera gel or cooled chamomile tea to the herb mixture, stirring until a thick paste forms.
   • If using bentonite clay, add it last and mix well.
3. Apply the Poultice:
   • Spread the paste directly onto the affected skin in a thick layer.
   • Cover with a clean cloth or gauze to keep it in place.
   • Leave on for 20–30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
4. Repeat as Needed:
   • Use 1–2 times daily until symptoms improve.

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Alternative Additions:

• Oat flour (Avena sativa) – Soothes itching and irritation.
• Lavender essential oil (1–2 drops) – Calms inflammation and promotes healing.
• Honey – Adds moisture and has antibacterial properties.

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Precautions:

• Do a patch test before applying to ensure no allergic reaction.
• Avoid using on open wounds or oozing eczema without consulting a doctor.

This tea blend is formulated to help ease migraine symptoms, reduce tension, and support circulation, which can help prevent and alleviate headaches.

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Ingredients (per cup):

• 1 teaspoon Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) – Helps prevent and reduce migraine severity
• 1 teaspoon Peppermint leaves (Mentha × piperita) – Soothes headaches and relieves nausea
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Balm leaves (Melissa officinalis) – Calms the nervous system and reduces stress
• 1 teaspoon Ginger root (Zingiber officinale) – Reduces inflammation and supports circulation
• 1 teaspoon Willow Bark (Salix alba) – Natural pain reliever similar to aspirin (optional)
• 1 cup boiling water

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Instructions:

1. Combine the Herbs:
   • Mix all the dried herbs together in a small bowl.
   • Store in an airtight container for future use.
2. Brew the Tea:
   • Place 1 tablespoon of the tea blend in a teapot or infuser.
   • Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herbs.
   • Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain & Serve:
   • Strain out the herbs and drink warm.
   • Optional: Add honey or lemon for taste.

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How to Use:

• Drink at the first sign of a migraine and up to 2 cups per day as needed.
• For prevention, drink 1 cup daily if migraines are frequent.

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Alternative Additions:

• Lavender flowers (Lavandula angustifolia) – Provides additional relaxation benefits.
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Helps reduce inflammation associated with migraines.
• Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) – Improves circulation and has mild pain-relieving properties.

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Precautions:

• Feverfew may cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to ragweed.
• Willow Bark should be avoided if allergic to aspirin or taking blood thinners.
• Always check with a healthcare provider before use if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.

This tea blend is designed to gently stimulate digestion, soften stool, and promote regularity without causing cramping.

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Ingredients (per cup):

• 1 teaspoon Senna leaf (Senna alexandrina) – Gentle laxative effect (use sparingly, as excessive use can cause dependency)
• 1 teaspoon Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – Soothes the digestive tract and helps with bowel movements
• 1 teaspoon Fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare) – Reduces bloating and gas while aiding digestion
• 1 teaspoon Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) – Helps lubricate the digestive tract for easier bowel movements
• 1 teaspoon Peppermint leaves (Mentha × piperita) – Calms the stomach and supports digestion
• 1 cup boiling water

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Instructions:

1. Combine the Herbs:
   • Mix all the dried herbs together in a small bowl.
   • Store in an airtight container for future use.
2. Brew the Tea:
   • Place 1 tablespoon of the tea blend in a teapot or infuser.
   • Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herbs.
   • Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain & Serve:
   • Strain out the herbs and drink warm.
   • Optional: Add honey or lemon for taste.

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How to Use:

• Drink 1 cup before bedtime to promote a morning bowel movement.
• Do not use Senna for more than 7 consecutive days, as it can cause dependency.

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Alternative Additions:

• Ginger root (Zingiber officinale) – Stimulates digestion and relieves bloating.
• Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) – Supports liver function and acts as a mild laxative.
• Flaxseed (ground) – Adds fiber and promotes softer stools.

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Precautions:

• Avoid Senna if pregnant, breastfeeding, or experiencing chronic digestive conditions.
• Licorice root may raise blood pressure—if you have hypertension, use it in moderation.

This herbal tincture is designed to support adrenal function, improve energy levels, and reduce stress, which is crucial for those with adrenal insufficiency.

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Ingredients:

• 1 part Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera) – Adaptogen that helps balance cortisol levels and reduce stress
• 1 part Eleuthero root (Eleutherococcus senticosus) – Supports adrenal glands and enhances stamina
• 1 part Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – Helps prolong cortisol activity and supports adrenal function
• 1 part Rhodiola root (Rhodiola rosea) – Improves mental clarity and energy levels
• 1 part Holy Basil (Tulsi) leaves (Ocimum sanctum) – Reduces stress and supports adrenal health
• 80-proof (40%) vodka or brandy (enough to cover herbs)
• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Dark glass dropper bottles for storage

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herbs:
   • If using dried herbs, chop or crush them slightly.
   • Fill a clean glass jar halfway with the dried herbs.
2. Add Alcohol:
   • Pour vodka (or brandy) over the herbs until fully covered.
   • Make sure the liquid sits at least 1 inch above the herbs.
3. Infusion Process:
   • Seal the jar tightly and shake well.
   • Store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain & Bottle:
   • After at least 4 weeks, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
   • Squeeze out all liquid from the herbs.
   • Pour the tincture into dark glass dropper bottles for storage.
5. Dosage & Use:
   • Take 30–60 drops (1–2 droppers full) in water or tea 1–2 times daily.
   • Best taken in the morning and early afternoon to support adrenal function.

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Alternative Methods:

• If alcohol is not preferred, substitute with vegetable glycerin for a non-alcoholic tincture.
• If making a tea, steep 1 teaspoon of the dried herb blend in hot water for 10–15 minutes and drink 1–2 cups daily.

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Additional Notes:

• Licorice root can raise blood pressure if used in excess—if you have hypertension, consult a doctor before use.
• Always check with a healthcare provider before using adaptogenic herbs, especially if you are taking corticosteroids or other medications.

Ingredients:

• 1 part dried Ginkgo biloba leaves (improves circulation to the inner ear)
• 1 part dried Açaí berries (antioxidant, supports vascular health)
• 1 part dried Baikal Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis, supports nervous system and reduces inflammation)
• 1 part dried Chamomile flowers (calming, reduces stress-related tinnitus)
• 80-proof (40%) vodka or food-grade alcohol (enough to cover herbs)
• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Dark glass dropper bottles for storage

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herbs:
   • Chop or crush dried herbs slightly to increase surface area.
   • Fill a clean glass jar halfway with the dried herbs.
2. Add Alcohol:
   • Pour vodka (or another high-proof alcohol) over the herbs until completely covered.
   • Ensure there is about 1 inch of liquid above the herbs.
3. Infusion Process:
   • Seal the jar tightly and shake well.
   • Store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to ensure even extraction.
4. Strain & Bottle:
   • After at least 4 weeks, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl.
   • Squeeze out all liquid from the herbs.
   • Pour the tincture into dark glass dropper bottles for storage.
5. Dosage & Use:
   • Take 30–60 drops (about 1–2 droppers full) in water or tea 1–3 times daily.
   • Best taken before meals for better absorption.
   • Consistency is key—use daily for at least 4 weeks to notice effects.

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Notes:

• Always consult a healthcare provider before starting herbal treatments, especially if taking medications for blood pressure or circulation.
• If alcohol-based tinctures are not preferred, a glycerin-based tincture can be made using the same method but replacing alcohol with food-grade vegetable glycerin.

This tincture combines herbs traditionally used to relieve menstrual pain, reduce cramping, and balance hormones.

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus): A powerful antispasmodic to ease muscle tension and cramping.
• 2 parts Black Cohosh Root (Actaea racemosa): Known for its hormone-regulating and pain-relieving properties.
• 1 part Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale): Reduces inflammation and stimulates circulation.
• 1 part Chamomile Flowers (Matricaria chamomilla): Soothes the nervous system and provides mild pain relief.
• 1 part Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca): Helps regulate menstrual flow and relieve uterine cramps.
• High-proof alcohol (like vodka or brandy, at least 40%)

Tools:

• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (preferably amber or dark glass)
• Fine strainer or cheesecloth
• Amber tincture bottles with droppers for storage

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the herbs: If using dried herbs, ensure they are finely chopped or powdered to maximize extraction.
2. Fill the jar: Place the herbs into the glass jar, ensuring they take up no more than 1/2 of the jar’s capacity.
3. Add alcohol: Pour enough alcohol over the herbs to fully submerge them, leaving about an inch of liquid above the herbs.
4. Seal and shake: Secure the lid tightly and give the jar a good shake.
5. Steep: Place the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake it gently every few days to encourage extraction.
6. Strain: After the steeping period, strain the liquid through a fine strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container, squeezing the herbs to extract as much liquid as possible.
7. Bottle: Transfer the tincture into amber glass bottles using a funnel.

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Dosage:

• Take 1-2 dropperfuls (about 20-40 drops) in a small amount of water or tea, up to 3 times a day during menstruation or as needed.

Precautions:

• Not suitable for pregnant individuals.
• Consult a healthcare professional if you’re on medication, have underlying conditions, or are unsure about any herb.