Poultices and Compresses

Many herbal remedies are applied directly to the skin as poultices - usually on rashes and wounds and as topical pain-relieving remedies. Poultices are prepared in various ways  chewing up fresh leaves or roots and spitting them out onto the skin, to mashing up fresh leaves or roots by hand or with a mortar and pestle. Sometimes just enough hot water is poured over dried or fresh plant material to soften them. Then the wet herbs are placed directly on the skin or between two pieces of cloth and laid on the skin. A light cotton bandage to bind the poultice to the area is generally used (or in the woods, a nice large flexible leaf is commonly employed and tied with a bit of twine). Compresses are simply soaking a cloth in a prepared infusion, tincture or decoction and laying the cloth onto the affected part of the body/skin. Since most people will only have access to dried plant materials to work with, using compresses instead of poultices will suffice for poultice remedies.For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Healing Crisis

During a fast healing comes in many forms.It is hard to predict who will have which symptoms, and most people will have none.The most common are in the first 3 days, when we experience withdrawal and superficial symptoms of breaking our habits of eating and digesting solid food. For some, later in a fast they may experience what is sometimes called a healing crisis, where the body starts to heal a deeper illness.

Common symptoms are one of discharge: runny nose, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, vaginal discharge, urinary symptoms, bad breath, coated tongue(you can just about count on this one),
withdrawal: headache, irritability, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, sleepiness, impatience
inflammation: fever, abscess, flu symptoms, skin disease, any kind of inflammation symptoms
you may experience exacerbation of chronic illnesses, such as kidney stones, urinary infection, sore throats, etc.
These are all temporary. Just take a deep breath, say thank you to your higher self for being smart enough to heal you, and LET GO.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Digestion

 All cells and all organs are dependent upon    
a well-functioning digestive system. When
digestion is off, even good food can become
toxic. Continuation of this problem can cause
our bodies to weaken and become more prone
to deficiencies, congestion, and disease.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Feverfew

 Feverfew a beautiful flowering plant and a member of the daisy family, is edible and medicinal. This camphor-scented herb was once known as featherfew because of the plant's lacy leaves. Used medicinally since at least the early 1800s, it is said to be exceedingly effective in controlling migraine headaches, and for relief from arthritis, psoriasis and tension. An infusion made from the whole plant is used in the treatment of arthritis, colds, fevers, as a sedative and to regulate menses. Also used as a foot bath for swollen feet. Applied externally as a tincture, the plant is used in the treatment of bruises. Chewing several leaves a day has proven to be effective in preventing some migraine headaches. Feverfew’s sedative properties make it useful in hysterical complaints, nervousness, low spirits, and is a general tonic. Also said to be good as a syrup for coughs, wheezing and breathing difficulties. The dried flower buds are said to have the same properties as pyrethrum, and used as an insecticide. An essential oil from the plant is used in perfumery.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Rosemary

 Rosemary
Not just a culinary herb for cooking, traditionally, rosemary has been used medicinally to improve memory, relieve muscle pain and spasm, stimulate hair growth, and support the circulatory and nervous systems. It is also believed to increase menstrual flow, act as an abortifacient (causing miscarriage), increase urine flow, and treat indigestion. Easy to grow in your yard, take advantage of this herb for culinary or medicinal . Applied topically (to the skin), rosemary oil is sometimes used to treat muscle pain and arthritis, and to improve circulation.

Historically, rosemary has been used to stimulate hair growth. Rosemary is often used in aromatherapy to increase concentration and memory, and to relieve stress.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

FYI

FYI
Western medical science says there is no cure for the common cold, the problem is if you start with a wrong premise your conclusion will never be right. Science says that the cold is caused by a virus, and they are looking for "Drugs" to kill this virus, they say that the reason a cure is difficult to find is because the virus mutates "changes form."

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Diabetes/ Blood Pressure

Diabetes is a DIS-ease that is caused by eating too many processed foods, starch and sugar. Contrary to western science the main purpose of the Pancreas is to release insulin into the blood stream to balance the blood sugar. The pancreas performs this function out of necessity because of the S.A.D. ( standard American diet). The result is the pancreas becomes overworked and enlarges( people in the US pancreas' size on average is twice the size it is suppose to be). The first step in healing both conditions is to detoxify. Detoxification helps elimination organs such as the liver and kidneys, to remove toxins, so they can help to remove waste from the body. Once the waste and toxins are removed the body can balance the blood sugar, and normalize the pressure. We have products that are 100% plant based to assist the body in this process: Gluco-Aide and Blood Pressure Relief. Cayenne by itself will not normalize the pressure because it not just about circulation, High pressure in the blood is the result of waste material in the blood stream that is not being eliminated properly. The waste causes the blood to get thick making the heart have to pump harder. The extra burden on the heart creates pressure in the system and causes the heart to enlarge, another organ that is being overworked due to SAD, this is the short version of why!!!!
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Hyssop

 Hyssop is in the mint family as evident by its square stem. Hyssop bears blue to purplish blue colored flowers and these bloom from the month of July in the summer through October in the fall. Hyssop and its oil are mainly used to treat respiratory problems. Hyssop is used for the treatment nasal congestion and mild irritations of the respiratory tract, and bronchitis.The active ingredients of Hyssop facilitates the expectoration of mucus.

It is very mild and has been safe to when dealing conditions of the lungs.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Lacinato Kale

  Lacinato  also called Dinosaur Kale

An original Italian heirloom that dates back to the eighteenth century.  'Dino' kale has deep blue-grey, super-savoyed long and narrow leaves, excellent flavor.  Extremely winter hardy variety becomes sweeter after a hard frost This plant has twice the level of anti-oxidant carotenoids compared to hybrid varieties of Kale. Best eaten when leaves are small and tender.


For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Pennyroyal

 Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a plant in the mint genus, within the family Lamiaceae. Crushed Pennyroyal leaves exhibit a very strong fragrance similar to spearmint. Pennyroyal is a traditional culinary herb, folk remedy, and abortifacient. (abort fetus) The essential oil of Pennyroyal is used in aromatherapy,  a highly toxic volatile organic compound affecting liver and uterine function.
Strongly aromatic with a menthol-mint aroma. A hardy ground cover used as an insect repellant.

The most popular current use of the tea is to settle the stomach. Other reported medicinal uses through history include treatment for fainting, flatulence, gall ailments, gout, and hepatitis (presumably Hepatitis A), and as a lung cleanser, a gum strengthener and, when ground with vinegar, a tumor remedy.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Hopi Red Dye Amaranth

An ancient starchless grain with an outstanding flavor. Its deep red baby leaves and rosettes brighten salad mixes; young plants make nutritious steamed greens; flowers can be used in bouquets; and the seeds are ground into a high protein, gluten-free(starch-less) flour. Traditionally used by the Hopis as a ceremonial food dye to produce red cornbread.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Alkaline Water

Alkaline Water
It is important to hydrate the body with alkalizing water. Like the earth on which we live, our bodies are 70% water. Food cravings are often the body's cry for water. A thirst for water will begin as one begins to hydrate with water.

A diet high in acid foods such as meat, dairy, grains, high sugar fruits and bread, causes acid wastes to build up in the body. When acid wastes enter our blood stream, the blood system will attempt to dispose of these wastes in liquid form through the lungs or the kidneys. If there are too many wastes to handle, they are deposited in various organ systems like the heart, pancreas, liver, colon, and other locations.

The breakdown of this disposal process of acid waste could also be called "the aging process". To slow down and reverse this process, one must begin by removing this over-acidification of the blood and tissues by including liberal amounts of alkaline water in the diet. Alkaline water has a pH between 9 and 11, and will neutralize harmful stored acid wastes and gently remove them from the tissues. Your water filter can alkalize your drinking water and also create acid water, both beneficial:

Benefits of Alkaline Water – Internal Use
• Regulates blood pressure
• Helps digestive problems
• Balances body's pH
• Reduce acidosis
• Reverse Aging
• Increased Energy
• Urea stones dissolved
• Good antioxidant source
• Cooked foods and beverages requiring water taste better


For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Autumn Hawkbit

Autumn Hawkbit
Often times mistaken for Dandelion, but the leaves are finer and the deep lobes are symmetrical. Also the flower stalks are not hollow and may be branched, both are in the Compositae family. It closely resembles Cat's Ear, except it does not have the hairs on the stems and leaves.

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Sassafras "root beer" herb
Sassafras grows at the edges of forests, in thickets, and along residential streets in the eastern half of the U.S. It's in season all year. If you tear or crush the leaves, they smell like root beer. You can make tea with the leaves by pouring boiling water over a handful, letting them sit covered, away from the heat, 20 minutes, then straining out the leaves. The root is has a stronger favor, and can be used as a blood purifier. You can also chew on sassafras twigs to freshen your breath.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Catsear

Cat's Ear
Also known as "false" Dandelion, it is often mistaken for dandelion, but there are a few small differences , Catsear flowering stems are forked and solid, Dandelions possess un-forked stems that are hollow. Both plants have leaf grouped together and a central taproot. The leaves of dandelions are jagged in appearance, whereas those of catsear are more lobe-shaped and hairy. Both plants have similar uses, although dandelion has higher mineral content.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Purslane

Purslane
A common edible weed with a mild, sweet-sour flavor and a chewy texture. Purslane just happens to contain alpha-linolenic acid, one of the highly sought-after Omega-3 fatty acids. Why pay money for fish oil when you can grow your own Omega-3 fatty acids as part of your edible landscaping? Not only does purslane have leaves in Omega-3 fatty acid, but it also has stems high in vitamin C. Omega-3 fatty acids are instrumental in regulating our metabolism. Purslane contains a very high concentration of alpha-linolenic acid, several times the concentration in spinach.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

WILD SENNA

"Wild" Senna
Its lovely bright yellow flowers blooming in July and August attract bees and butterflies; followed by beautiful fall foliage. This is the infamous herbal laxative, the whole plant is used, the pods have the strongest laxative effect, can cause gripping if not used with a Carminative.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Wormwood

Wormwood
Grows wild in the Midwest, it is a bitter plant that can be used to treat digestive issues. It keeps the digestive system stimulated and moving smoothly. Wormwood improves digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acid and bile. It helps to relieve gas and bloating and can help convalescing patients gain their strength. As its name implies it also helps to expel intestinal parasites. In addition, it can be used to repel or kill insects.

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Catnip

Catnip
A member of the mint family, as its name implies cats simple love this plant, when they rub against it, it's like "cat-crack" to them!!! Tea made from catnip has been used to relieve intestinal cramps and gas discomforts, also they have been applied to sore breasts of nursing mothers and to the neck for tonsillitis. Has a mild calming effect, can be combined with chamomile for a restful night sleep. A great herb to gather in the "wild."

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MINT FAMILY

If you pick a plant with a distinctly square stalk and simple, opposite leaves, then it is very likely a member of the Mint family. Be sure to smell it too, since many species of the family are loaded with aromatic volatile oils. Some mints include Basil, Rosemary, Lavender, Marjoram,Thyme, horehound, and Horehound to name a few!

Medicinally this family is rich in volatile oils, especially menthol, often used as the penetrating vapors in cough drops. These spicy oils are stimulating and warming, causing the body to open up and sweat; so most of these plants are listed as diaphoretic in herbal books. This property can help you break a fever. A fever is the body's way of "cooking" the microorganisms that cause infections. Using a diaphoretic herb can help raise a mild fever just high enough to "cook" a virus, thus "breaking" or ending the fever. Volatile oils are also highly lethal to microorganisms

For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com

Minerals

Minerals are utilized by the body for virtually every function the body undergoes to maintain life. Only plants have the ability to convert dead, inorganic minerals gathered from the soil to organic, living minerals utilized by the animal kingdom.  The plant kingdom can bond a protein molecule with an inorganic mineral. How can we put a dead, inorganic substance in our body and expect it to grant us life?  If we could, we would be naturally attracted to consume, with delight, soil, sand, and powdered rocks.
For more information on natural health and wellness go to http://ancestralmedicinals.com