Learn about the wonderful world of herbs with our ABCs of Herbs series.
In our ABCs of Herbs series, we want to give you a bit of background about the herbs we use in our blends. This will focus more on what the herb is for, and not about identification.
All information has been learned through the years by me through study and certification.
Echinacea
(Echinacea purpurea)
Echinacea supports and regulates the immune system. Most herbalist agree that it helps best during the first days of cold and flu, and can help reduce fevers. It is one of the most effective herbs for fighting bacterial and viral infections. This means, pay attention to your body and when you notice those first signs of 'ick' reach for this supportive herb. This powerful little herb stimulates the production of white blood cells, helps strengthen and clear lymph nodes; inhibits spread of infection, fights viral infections, promotes blood circulation, and promotes the flow of saliva.
When used as a tincture, it can make your tongue feel slightly numb, or fuzzy, and make you salivate. This is normal. But to lessen the effect, we recommend adding drops to water, tea, or other liquids.
Can be used as a salve for infected wounds, acne, boils, abscesses, and warts.
This herb is an alterative for the circulatory system.
Use with caution if you have an autoimmune disorder. (It can be VERY effective, but must be used under the guidance of a qualified herbalist.)
Elder Berry aka Elderberries
(Sambucus nigra)
Used for thousands of years for it's potent medicine, it is promoted during cold and flu season. Especially good for upper respiratory infections; if taken for prevention they have shown to be very successful, and as show in in several studies, if taken during the course of illness, they cut the duration of the illness down considerably. We love to add a bit of elderberry syrup to our teas during the winter. This adds a lovely flavor AND all the natural benefits of the berry. Note: Our organic elderberry syrup is for pick up only because we don't use any preservatives and it must be refrigerated.
Generally regarded as safe, but don't eat the berries raw as they can cause nausea and vomiting.
Eucalyptus Leaf
(Eucalyptus globulus Labill.)
Another helpful herb during cold and flu season, Eucalyptus leaf is especially beneficial when you have a cold that involves mucous. It is an expectorant, so it helps get that gunky blockage up and out. Highly antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory, it aids in stopping the spread of illness. It is particularly effective against bacterial bronchitis. When combined with fennel honey it soothes sore throats and can help lower fever. Best used as herb in a tea, do not use the essential oil to make tea as it can lead to serious problems.
Avoid using eucalyptus leaf (oil) near the faces of young children, or if you suffer from inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts, or if serious you have liver disease. Do not use more than directed, as large doses can cause serious distress and even death. Although the herb is safe as a tea, in lozenges, and tinctures, the essential oil is NOT safe to consume! It is highly toxic.
Our Blends
Looking for one of our E herbs in a ready made blend? Look no further.