Sunday, February 24, 2013

It's cold time again...

...and I am reminded of herbs that can be really helpful.

In addition to herbs it's a good idea to eat well, sleep well, drink plenty of water, avoid sugar, wash hands, and avoid touching face.

Some favorite cold herbs include:

Thyme and Oregano
  • help immune system
  • clear sinuses
  • anti-microbial

Sage (garden variety)
  • dries wet and drippy colds (put in salt water gargle)
  • anti-microbial
  • use in mouth wash for gum & tooth health
  • astringent

Red Cedar (the Pacific Northwest LOVES Cedar)
  • immune stimulant 
  • anti-microbial
  • respiratory health

Golden Rod
  • mouth health
  • wound care
  • respiratory, lungs & throat

Usnea (this lichen family fungi & agli mix only grows inch per year)
  • anti-microbial
  • UTI

Mullein Leaf
  • respiratory tonic
  • sinus, throat, lungs (strain tea really well due to fluffy hairy leaves)

Cherry Bark (any cherry tree)
  • coughs; the ones that linger & keep up
  • bronchitis
  • also an astringent; may make you hungry


Source: Missy Rohs of Arctos School of Herbal and Botanical Studies