Sandalwood As Alternative Medicine

Sandalwood As Alternative Medicine

Sandalwood is used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines as an alternative medicine to treat skin disorders, stomach pains, vomiting, sexual dysfunction and sexually transmitted diseases and in both female and male.

1. It stimulates the growth of white blood cells to boost up the immune system.
2. It eases tension, insomnia, anxiety, grief and stress.
3. It is a remedy for acne, oily or dry and chapped skin.
4. It is often combined with ginger or peppermint to give relief to diarrhea, heartburn, vomiting, dysentery and nausea.
5. It is a treatment for fungal infections such as thrush and tinea.
6. It is effective in treating dry coughs, bronchitis, urinary tract infections and sore throat.

Sandalwood is available as powder or oil. To treat digestive complaints it is often blended with rice-water, honey and sugar. The oil is good for bladder inflammation and painful urination. In Ayurvedic medicine the powdered wood is made into a paste to treat fevers and snakebites. The oil can sometimes cause outbreak of dermatitis in people who are highly sensitive. These are the three common forms that sandalwood is used as an alternative medicine.

Stinging Nettle As Alternative Medicine

Stinging Nettle As Alternative Medicine

For centuries herbalists have used stinging nettle as an alternative medicine to treat many health disorders. It is one of the most highly regarded herbs for medicinal purposes. Every part of this plant can be used as medicine and better result is achieved with the leaves than the root.

1. It is a remedy for urinary tract inflammation and kidney stones.
2. It is a treatment for baldness.
3. It is used for treating digestive disorders such as diarrhea, indigestion and dysentery.
4. It is an effective remedy for gout, arthritis and rheumatism.
5. It is used to treat hay fever, asthma and allergies.
6. It is a treatment for poor circulation and anemia.
7. It is used as a remedy for high blood pressure.
8. Its root is often used with other herbs such as saw palmetto to treat benign prostate enlargement.
9. Due to its high content of iodine, it is a treatment for goiter.

Stinging nettle is available in the form of tea, dried leaves and root tincture. Standard dosage is between 50 to 100 mg twice a day. To treat wounds, eczema, burns and insect bites use this herb as a wash. An infusion is used to treat diarrhea, kidney inflammation and hemorrhoids. This herb is non toxic when the dosage is adhered to. Today in Germany stinging nettle root is accepted as an alternative medicine to treat benign prostate hypertrophy.

Meadowsweet As Alternative Medicine

Meadowsweet As Alternative Medicine

Meadowsweet has been used as an alternative medicine by herbalists for hundreds of years. To the Celtic people such as the Druids this herb is very sacred. In Europe it is used to fight obesity and cellulite. In Germany it is an approved herb for medicinal uses. Meadowsweet and willow bark are the two common herbs often used in place of aspirin.

1. It is the best remedy for digestive problems such as heartburn, peptic ulcers, diarrhea, gastritis and indigestion.
2. It is used to ease pains associated with sore joints, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, menstrual cramps and headache.
3. It is a treatment for colds, flu and respiratory complaints such as cough and bronchitis.
4. It is a diuretic used to treat water retention.
5. It is a sedative that promotes sleep and eases insomnia.

Every part of the meadowsweet plant including the flowers is used for medicinal purposes. This herb is available in tea, capsules and dried form. An infusion is the best way to use meadowsweet. It is gentler and does not irritate the stomach as aspirin. Very often it is used in combination with other herbs to treat irritable bowel syndrome.

Meadowsweet is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women and asthma sufferers. Those people who are taking Warfarin and other blood thinning medicine must also refrain from using it. In addition anyone who has an allergy to Aspirin must avoid this herb. Taking this herb in excess or for long period can cause kidney damage or stomach upset. Meadowsweet is another alternative medicine that needs to be used with caution.

Horsetail As Alternative Medicine

Horsetail As Alternative Medicine

Horsetail is an alternative medicine dating back to the times of ancient Roman and Greek cultures. It was used to treat ulcers, wounds, tuberculosis, kidney disorders and also to stop bleeding.

1. It is a powerful remedy for osteoporosis, arthritis, torn ligaments and broken bones due to its high content of silicon.
2. It is a treatment for nosebleed, hemorrhage and menstrual clots.
3. It is used for the treatment of urinary tract infections, bladder stones and kidney stones.
4. It is an effective remedy for lung problems such as bronchitis and tuberculosis.
5. It is a treatment for eye infections such as inflammation and conjunctivitis.
6. It is a remedy for hair loss and unhealthy hair.
7. It is a diuretic to treat water retention such as swelling in the legs.

Horsetail is usually taken as a tincture, capsules or tea. The tea is good for strengthening nails, teeth, bones and hair. It is also used to heal ulcers in the stomach. This herb can be used together with Hydrangea to treat prostate problems. Standard dosage for tea is 3 to 4 grams of leaves a day. Continue with the treatment until the sickness or injury is healed.

When use in small amounts and not over a long period horsetail is safe. However, young children, expectant and nursing women must avoid using it. I have not personally tried this herb. However, after reading an article on what silicon can do to repair cartilages I now look at horsetail as an alternative medicine from a new perspective.

Mugwort As Alternative Medicine

Mugwort As Alternative Medicine

Mugwort has been used as an alternative medicine for thousands of years by different cultures. Both its root and leaves are used for medicinal purposes.

1. It is an effective remedy for a range of digestive complaints such as indigestion, dyspepsia, vomiting, flatulence, stomach acidity, diarrhea and cramps.
2. It is powerful in expelling intestinal parasites from the body.
3. It is a sedative to calm nervousness and tension.
4. It is a tonic for the liver and spleen.
5. It is a remedy for gynecological problems such as vaginal pain, menstrual cramps, uterine bleeding and heavy menstrual bleeding.
6. It is used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine to treat fungal infection.

Mugwort is available as teas, capsules, tablets, tinctures, dried leaves and roots. For pinworm infestation, use an infusion of this herb. It can also be used as a poultice for topical use. This herb is toxic if taken in large dosages and taken over long period. Pregnant and nursing women must avoid using mugwort. Those people who suffer from pelvic infection or uterine inflammation also should not take it. When the plant gets in contact with your skin it can also cause dermatitis in some people.

Mugwort is a very useful alternative medicine but make sure you do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Elderberry As Alternative Medicine

Elderberry As Alternative Medicine

Elderberry is an alternative medicine that has been used for centuries since the times of Hippocrates. This herb is derived from the fruit of the black elder plant to treat colds, influenza and sinus. In Israel elderberry is sold as Sambucol an herbal medicine for flu and colds symptoms.

1. It is an effective treatment for upper respiratory infections.
2. It is a laxative and cleanser for the intestines.
3. It is an immune system booster.
4. Its inner bark is a remedy for epilepsy.

Elderberry is available as capsules, tablets, extract, tea and tinctures. This herb is usually safe and has few known reactions with prescribed drugs. To make a tea from the flowers add 3 to 5 g of the petals to 250 ml of boiling water and steep for 15 minutes. Drinking this tea can ease twitching and eye inflammation. Very often this herb is used in combination with Echinacea to boost the body’s immunity.

Elderberry can reduce the duration of a cold or flu. However, the leaves, bark, raw berries and seeds are highly toxic due to their cyanide content. Elderberry is a powerful alternative medicine but caution must be exercised.

Horseradish As Alternative Medicine

Horseradish As Alternative Medicine

Horseradish is a common condiment and an alternative medicine. It is an ancient herb that dates back to biblical times. This herb was one of the bitter herbs used during the Jewish Passover.

1. It is a tonic for the liver and the spleen.
2. It is effective in expelling worms in children.
3. It is used to treat food poisoning.
4. It clears the skin of blemishes and spots.
5. It gives relief for rheumatism, arthritis and gout.
6. It is an excellent remedy for sinus and lung congestion.
7. It is a treatment for kidney infections and kidney stones.

Horseradish is available as capsules, tincture and tea. The standard dosage in tincture form is 2 or 3 ml three times a day. It is an herb that is safe to use over long term. Poultice can be used to heal infected wounds. Expecting or nursing women and young children should avoid taking this herb. Those people who suffer from peptic ulcer and gastritis should also refrain from using it.

I have personally used this herb for my sinus problem with satisfactory results. It is very often combined with garlic. Horseradish is an alternative medicine for many health disorders but its value is still greatly undervalued.

Coltsfoot As Alternative Medicine

Coltsfoot As Alternative Medicine

For centuries coltsfoot has been a favorite alternative medicine for chest problems such as bronchitis, coughs, colds, pleurisy and asthma. It is also effective for throat irritation, hoarseness, sore throat and laryngitis.

Coltsfoot is usually taken as a tea. It is more potent when combined with thyme, wild cherry and liquorice. Very often a decoction is made from coltsfoot, marshmallow and horehound as a treatment for coughs. You can make a tea by adding 5 to 10 grams of the leaf or flower to 250ml of boiling water and steep for 10 to 20 minutes.

This herb must not be taken longer than 4 weeks at one time. It is believed that coltsfoot can increase the chance of liver tumors and damage due to the toxicity potential of the herb. Pregnant or nursing women and young children should refrain from taking this herbal remedy. Studies show that coltsfoot does not interact with any prescription drugs.

In Europe coltsfoot remains as one of the most used alternative medicine for respiratory and chest problems.

Plantain As Alternative Medicine

Plantain As Alternative Medicine

Plantain is an ancient alternative medicine used by the North American Indians with yarrow to treat internal bleeding. It is also known as ‘White man’s foot’ in many countries such as Ghana and Nigeria. The Anglo-Saxons also considered it as a very useful medicinal herb.

1. It is a remedy for enlarged prostate.
2. It is a treatment for stomach complaints such as peptic ulcers, gastritis, irritable bowel, diarrhea and dysentery.
3. It is excellent for chest congestion, bronchitis and coughs.
4. It is used to treat impotence in males in Chinese Traditional Medicine.
5. It is a diuretic effective for the treatment of urinary tract infection.
6. It is a very powerful poisons antidote such as bee sting.
7. It is a remedy for skin disorders such as wounds, bruises and rashes.

You can buy plantain in capsules or liquid extract form from health food stores. Standard dosage for liquid is one teaspoonful 3 times a day or 6000 milligrams per day in capsules. For bee sting or insect bite apply its juice onto the affected area to soothe and heal. It is a very safe herb with hardly any side effects and can be taken over long period.

In Germany this herb is a government approved remedy for coughs and skin inflammation. Most people including myself have been ignorant of the fact that plantain is an alternative medicine.

Yarrow As Alternative Medicine

Yarrow As Alternative Medicine

Yarrow is an age old alternative medicine used by many cultures to treat a wide variety of health complaints. The North American natives such as the Chippewa, Blackfoot and Cherokee used its tea for headache, fever, childbirth and restful sleep.

1. It is an effective remedy for heavy menstrual bleeding.
2. It is a treatment for digestive problems such as indigestion, flatulence and bloating.
3. It is used to treat skin irritations such as cuts, measles, small pox, chicken pox and bruises.
4. It promotes perspiration.
5. It lowers blood pressure and purifies the blood.
6. It is useful for cramps, sprains and strains.
7. It can help with kidney disorders such as blood in the urine.
8. It is very effective for colds and flu.
9. It promotes hair growth.

Yarrow is available in extracts, capsules and tinctures. It is non-toxic and non-irritant. However, side effects such as sores, fever and nervous tension are found in some people. Yarrow tea is the most effective form of the herb. The tea can be drunk up to three times a day. The North American natives used it with plantain to treat internal bleeding. To clear up a cold mixed the tea with peppermint or elderberry blossoms. Take this at the first sign of a cold.

Yarrow is an herbal medicine of many uses. The herbalist Matthew Wood and herbal author Michael Moore both wrote about the many therapeutic uses of this herb. Yarrow is an alternative medicine that I have personally used for female problems with good results.

Flaxseed Oil As Alternative Medicine

Flaxseed Oil As Alternative Medicine

Flaxseed oil from the flax plant seeds is an alternative medicine to treat a range of ailments. It is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids similar to that found in fish oil.

1. It is an effective treatment for bowel disorders such as constipation, colon inflammation, irritable bowel and stomach inflammation.
2. It is a remedy for dry skin, eczema, acne and psoriasis.
3. It is often used as a treatment for hormone problems such as mood swings and PMS.
4. It is a preventive for heart diseases such as angina, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
5. It is effective in preventing dry eye after LASIK operation.
6. It is also found to be useful in weight control, allergies, multiple sclerosis and depression.

Flaxseed oil is available as capsule or liquid. It is easily affected by light and heat hence it must be refrigerated. It does not have many side effects when not taken in excess. Nausea, diarrhea and gas are some of the likely reactions. However, those that suffer from diarrhea, breast cancer, ovary cancer, uterus cancer and endometriosis should refrain from taking this oil. Studies show flaxseed oil to be an alternative medicine just as effective as doxycycline in combating dry eyes after laser eye surgery.

Cowslip As Alternative Medicine

Cowslip As Alternative Medicine

Do you know that cowslip a food of the wild rabbits is also used as an alternative medicine? It is a very versatile herb that is effective in treating a range of ailments. Cowslip is usually used together with other herbs.

1. It is a diuretic that can give relief to kidney disorders
2. It is a treatment for nervousness and related trembling.
3. It is combined with Lady’s Slipper and Skullcap to treat anxiety.
4. It is used with Coltsfoot as a remedy for respiratory complaints such as pneumonia, coughs, mucous congestion, bronchitis and colds.
5. It is often used with Valerian Root as a treatment for hysteria.
6. When combined with Passion Flower and Hops it is a remedy for insomnia, headache and nervous tension.

Cowslip is available as powder, tea bags and leaves from most health food stores. To make a tea from the flowers brew 2 teaspoonfuls of petals and steep for about 15 minutes. An infusion can also be made from the root. Just add 1 teaspoonful of the root into 250 ml of water and bring it to the boil. Cowslip works best as an alternative medicine when blended with other herbs.

Basil As Alternative Medicine

Basil As Alternative Medicine

Basil is well known as an herb but not as an alternative medicine. In Roman legend it was used to counter the venom from the Fire Dragon – Basilisk. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine this herb is a treatment for snakebites and many other ailments.

1. It alleviates earache and headache.
2. It is a treatment for indigestion, stomach disorders such as cramps, stomachache and vomiting.
3. It is a skin problems and thrush remedy.
4. It relieves constipation.
5. It is effective for cough, fever, chills, colds and flu.
6. Basil tea is effective eyewash for tired eyes.
7. It eases menstrual pains.

When used as a medicine basil is usually taken as an infusion. It is safe, non toxic with zero side effects. Herbalists have used basil infusion to treat bad breath, stomach cramps and digestion problems for years.

Before we use any herbal treatments, we should be fully informed and be aware of any possible reactions and side effects. Taking herb as an infusion is very potent. Some herbs generally do not affect others may cause an allergy in you. If you have any concerns consult your health doctors. Basil is more than an herb for seasoning it is also an economical and powerful alternative medicine.

Bedstraw As Alternative Medicine

Bedstraw As Alternative Medicine

In Europe bedstraw is a popular alternative medicine used to heal sores and wounds. In the olden days it was used by women for uterus disorders. In Germany it is used to treat kidney and bladder stones.

1. Poultice made from crushed leaves is a treatment for skin inflammation, skin tumor, age spots, wounds and bleeding.
2. Juice of bedstraw is a remedy for scurvy.
3. Bedstraw tea is a remedy for urinary tract infections such as painful urination and fever.
4. The tea is also effective in treating intestinal and stomach inflammation.

To make a bedstraw tea brew 3 to 4g of leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Standard dosage is 2 to 3 cups of tea a day. It is non-toxic and generally well tolerated.

A poultice is made by crushing 10 g of fresh leaves. Apply this topically to the affected areas. Bedstraw is traditionally used to stuff mattress. However, little do we realise that it is also a potent alternative medicine.

Hawthorn As Alternative Medicine

Hawthorn As Alternative Medicine

Hawthorn is one of Europe’s oldest plants used as an alternative medicine. It has been used to treat heart problems since the Middle Ages. Today in Europe hawthorn is prescribed as a remedy for heart conditions such as angina.

1. It is a treatment for high blood pressure.
2. It reduces the build up of cholesterol and fats in the blood.
3. It is used as a remedy for insomnia and nervousness.
4. Use it as a gargle for sore throat.
5. It helps to protect joints from damage due to arthritic inflammation
6. It gives relief to indigestion and bloating.
7. It is a diuretic and a treatment for bladder and kidney stones.

You can buy hawthorn in liquid, capsules, tinctures, extracts and tea from health food stores. It normally takes six to eight weeks to feel the effects. This herb is safe when used over a short period. However, for angina it must be taken over a longer period. Children must not take hawthorn as a remedy. Some possible side effects are dizziness, palpitations, headache and gastrointestinal upsets. This herb can react with blood pressure and heart prescription drugs.

Hawthorn is a popular herb used by herbalists worldwide to promote normal heart functions and circulation. In Ayurvedic medicine it is used to strengthen muscle of the heart and to improve blood flow. Clinical studies show that hawthorn is an effective alternative medicine for cardiovascular disorders in the early stages.