I’ve got a preference for certain herbal supplement manufacturers.  I’ve never tried to conceal that. Now my favorite manufacturer has finally released their CBD! I’m so excited!

 

The energy center located between the eyebrows is Ajna. It is thought this sixth chakra is concerned with an individual’s perception, reality, intuition, and ability to manifest. In short, this center has to do with a person’s ability to see, both inner sight (insight) and outer sight.

The pineal and pituitary glands have both been associated with ajna.

The Pineal

The pineal is about the size of a Lima bean or so and sits right behead the skull at this brow location. It was misunderstood for a very long time and research in recent years is just beginning to scratch the surface of its function. We do know it produces melatonin and is very receptive to light. This is one reason experts suggest avoiding blue light emitting screens, etc at bed time.

The pineal is thought by some to be the true third eye.  Some believe the nuerotransmitters made by the pineal gland are the key to transcending the physical plane. We do know the nuerotransmitters it produces seem to be helpful in the management of pain. Unfortunately,  certain minerals and compounds, like flouride, can cause the pineal to harden and diminish in function.

The Pituitary

The pituitary gland is considered to be the “master gland.” It sits about center of the brain and us approximately the size of a large pea. It produces hormones which trigger the release of other hormones from other glands – almost acting as the conductor of an orchestra. From alternative practitioner’s perspective I can say both glands associated with ajna seem to be highly reactive to various alternatives including herbals and essential oils. 

Essential oils for the third eye chakra

Sandalwood essential oil is considered beneficial for the sixth chakra, as well as frankincense essential oil. Isn’t it wonderful that these two are the base scents in much of the incense used in religious temples and churches throughout the world! They calm the mind and are used to spur contemplation through meditation. 

Herbs for ajna

Gotu kola is very nourishing for the brain. It has been studied extensively for its promise in aiding or boosting the memory. This is due to its ability to boost oxygen supplies to the brain. A common name for it, Brahmi, indicates its godlike nature.  

Ginkgo also has been studied for similar features. The law of signatures is often sited due to the gingko leaves looking like the lobes of a brain. 

 

 

 

Both of these herbs can be found as single supplements or in blends. I like to suggest Nature’s Sunshine’s Gotu Kola,  available in the shop, here on this site. You can find a time released Gingko in my shop as well.  The blend Master Gland also supplies many nutrients and trace minerals blended with herbs often used to support the glandular system.

**purchasing items from the shop section of this site does help to supply me with an income and keeps the information coming. I appreciate all those who decide to become a customer.

Meditation

The third eye is associated with meditation. Since it is the chakra associated with self reflection, it is only fitting to suggest taking a moment each and every day to reflect on the inner self as well as the outer self. There are many YouTube videos supplying tonal wavelengths thought to enhance the experience.  

As I sit here, typing this post, I am overcome by just how much I have been at a loss of words as of late. I have been neglecting writing this post. I have said I was going to post it. I have planned on posting it. I have stared at the blank text box where I type the content for hours. It is not like me to struggle for words. I was gifted the the ability to “shoot the shit,” as my regular gas station customers would claim back in th’day. I feel it is this ability that always put me in a position to find out the stories people had to tell and compose them into articles for the local newspapers. Use words to get words. However, the words have been difficult to string together. I feel as if I have dropped the proverbial ball on this one. That’s when I finally was able to see the difficulty.

The energy center of your words

Vissudha is the energy center associated with the area of the throat, ears, mouth, shoulders, and neck. Also known as Shekhem in some ancient Egyptian healing traditions, it has to do with words. Words are just sounds strung together in order to have a uniform means of communication. This center has to do with speaking words, hearing words, listening and processing those words. It is literally where each being produces sounds of communication and takes in the sounds around us to be processed. This energy center is all about finding the truth in those sounds – finding what resonates within each of us as a unique individual.

Let me paint this picture for you: I was let go from my job. This is something that has never happened to me before. I began experiencing swollen glands in my neck, stiff neck, cold sores, itchy ears, sore throats, and a variety of other physical symptoms centered around the throat and neck area. I bombed some interviews – also not like me. I was not able to get my point across and I really don’t want the jobs anyway. There was at least one question at every single interview where I swear I heard crickets chirping because I had absolutely no answer for the interviewer. Every rejection email added to the voices in my head telling me what a terrible person I am for not being productive enough to stay employed. I must be the absolute most useless human being on the planet, right? I found myself lashing out some days. Other days I would just stay in and cry. The most heartbreaking thing of all was not being to craft my words.

I

could

not

write!

I tried so hard. I would read and research. Everything would seem perfect, yet when I sat in front of the keyboard, I would get sucked into the time vortex of despair. I was (and in some ways, I still do) sucking in all of the negative and hard-wiring it into my psyche. There are no words to write when you truly believe no one wants to read your writing. There are no words to speak when there is no one to listen to your sounds.

A small request

This is where I have to thank a reader. I don’t know who it is. I don’t know why they sent the comment. But I received a feedback form form my site, here. Usually they spam…not going to lie. Internet spam constitutes a huge quantity of the bullshit on the internet. It is the junk mail of the cyber world. Mixed in with the many emails guaranteeing me increased web traffic and foolproof sales funnels and all of the straight gimmicky shit out there, was one small message: “Make a more new posts please :)”

This message is why I forced myself to re-read about the throat chakra. This one positive, tiny request is what led me to see I was suffering from a blocked Vissuddha or Shekmet. I owe that reader a thank you.

In depth

This chakra is associated with the color blue. It is thought to be closely aligned with the thyroid and parathyroids. The thyroid gland is butterfly shaped and sits at the base of the neck, close to the voice box. It controls much of the functions of metabolism. The parathyroids are tiny granular balls that sit atop the “wings” of the thyroid. As far as it is known at this time, the parathyroids play a large part in regulating various minerals, most notably calcium.

This is the chakra, or energy center, of creativity and communication. The challenge associated with this center is “do I have the the right to communicate”. Animals often associated with this area include the elephant, bull, and lion (think of loud, throaty, vocal animals).

Essential oils that may be beneficial

Frankincense: regarded as Holy oil; beneficial in cases of under active thyroid. Rich, deep, and sweet, it is said it increases spiritual awareness and connection with the divine within.

Geranium: Sweet and citrus-rosy, it is used to calm down sore throats, clear oily skin, and move stagnant energy in the body. Creates a feeling of safety and security; used to ease nervous tension and promote a sense of well-being.

Jasmine: has a beneficial effect on the voice. It is used in cases of hoarse voice. It is said to penetrate the deeper layers of the soul and open us up to repressed emotional pain, allowing energy flow through the throat chakra. Enhances greater communication of our feelings, enhancing relationships and intimacy.

Sage: ancient sacred herb and a master healer. Traditionally used to heal gum disease. It is said to ease depression and mental fatigue, opening up channels in the upper body and chest area and allowing for energy to flow more freely.

Cypress: decongestant and detoxifying properties; used to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, clearing build up toxins. traditionally used for bleeding gums, bronchitis, and respiratory congestion. Fresh, herbaceous, slightly woody, it is thought to aid with transformation and inner renewal.

Peppermint: Minty and sharp; long used to freshen breath, for respiratory infections, and to ease headaches due to congestion; invigorates and stimulates the mind and has a direct action on the intellect. It promotes creativity and self expression.

Eucalyptus: Fresh, medicinal, with a woody scent; historically used to calm inflammation of the nasal passages, clear sore throat, and sinusitis. It is said to promote well-being and opens inner space when we feel overwhelmed or constricted by our environment. It promotes the feeling of inner freedom and expansiveness.

Clove: very strong, spicy oil that has been traditionally used for mouth, tooth, and gum tissue healing. It has been said to be used to assist in regulation of the thyroid gland, dissolving blood clots, and removing stagnation in the blood. It is thought to  help to create feelings of protection and safety and promote good sleep.

Tea Tree: fresh, medicinal aroma; used for thousands of years to treat a variety of fungal, bacterial and viral infections; strong antiseptic and has immune building properties. It is said to enhance, harmonize, and possibly promote cleansing and purity.

Affirmations that may be of use

  • I am open, clear, and honest in my communication.
  • I have a right to speak my truth.
  • I communicate my feelings with ease.
  • I express myself creatively through speech, writing, or art.
  • I have a strong will that lets me resolve my challenges.
  • I nourish my spirit through creativity.
  • I live an authentic life. I have integrity.
  • I love to share my experiences and wisdom. I know when it is time to listen.
  • I express my gratitude towards life.
  • I listen to my body and my feelings to know what my truth is.
  • I take good care of my physical body.
  • I am at peace.

Herbs that may be of assistance

Chamomile

Kelp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Irish Moss

Dulse

Herbal Trace Mineral Blend

 

**DISCLOSURE: any products ordered from the links to The Herbchick’s Shop do pay me a small commission. These commissions, along with selling my books, paid speaking events, and so-forth, are how I make a living. I thank you for your purchase(s). 

If you follow my blog you’ll notice that I’ve had quite the break in between posts. It’s because I’ve been wanting to post about the heart chakra for a while, but I was feeling that my heart was not in the right place to do so. You see, I took a job that I thought would allow me more freedom and it was in the arena of what I went to school to do. However, what happened was I started to feel as though I was losing myself. Everyday became more stressful. My days became consumed with worry about making sales goals. And honestly, I really just don’t feel that my heart was in it.

 

I’ve been gone from that job a little over a month now. I’ve gone through a grieving and mourning process. I’ve worked through my feelings of failure. I kind of feel like I’m starting to ReDiscover what brings me joy in life. That, is very good for my heart.

 

So this inkling of joy leads me here, to my happy place…to my blog….to my business. It is, after all, where I want to be. When i went through all of the health issues way back at age 16 and 17, i wasn’t very joyful. I was depressed and melancholy and generally felt like shit on a daily basis. When herbs and natural methods made me feel good, I wanted to share this success with others so they could feel good, too.

 

This is where the heart chakra comes in. Anahata is the sanskrit word for the heart chakra.  Its associated with the color green and is thought to be located in the center of the chest. So perhaps it is best to think of it as being just behind the breast bone. Anatomically,  this is the location of the thymus, and the anatomical heart sits just slightly to a person’s left of that.

Anahata sits right behind the breast bone.

 

 

 

Anahata is the energy center that allows us to connect with unifying forces in the universe. It aids in each person realizing they are a part of a greater whole. It’s where bonds with other living things are created. It houses caring, compassion, self-love,  altruism, generosity,  kindness and respect – for self and others. It can be destroyed by grief.

 

When these are in balance there is joy, warmth, and love about a person. You can imagine the expressions of imbalance, can’t you? Note, this is also the chakra that allows people to say no, with grace, and not over extend him or her self.

It is associated with the element of air…amazing since the lungs are in this area, too. The color green is assigned to it. Yarrow,  an herb looked to as an “attitude adjuster” is often associated with Anahata, as are the scents of jasmine, lavender and rose. (Yarrow, as well as lavender, jasmine and rose essential oils are available for order in the The Herbchick’s Shop)

 

 

Affirmations for the heart chakra

  • I am open to love.
  • Love resides within my heart.
  • I completely love and accept myself.
  • I am wanted and loved.
  • I live in balance, in a state of gracefulness and gratitude.
  • I love the beauty of nature.
  • I am open to love.
  • I am connected with others.
  • I feel one with nature and animals.
  • I am peaceful.

 

 

 

The solar plexus energy center is slightly below the stomach level of the human body. When it comes to chakras, this energy center is referred to as Manipura.

 

Manipura is the center of the ego, or willpower. Muladhara (root) is centered around existence and survival. Svadhisthana (second/sacral) is about creative force and experiencing pleasure. Manipura is the development of a sense of self. It is the seat of actions and behaviors like self control and self empowerment. It is associated with the subtly of the element of fire.

 

Manipura in balance

When this energy center is balanced, a person seem to move about others in an effortless manner. He/she has a self-confidence and a relaxed nature. When this energy center is not in balance, the person is harried or constantly stressed. When it is out of balance toward the over-active the individual seems as if s/he is dragging the world about on her/his shoulders. When it is under active the person may seem overly meek and too timid to live.

Physically, this energy center is seated in the digestive system.  The digestive system takes in, breaks down and assimilates the nutrients in food. It may be beneficial to think of Manipura as the center at which a person assimilates life. Is it a fight (over active)? Is it just another function that happens (balanced)? Or is life a force that runs the person over (under active)?

Digestion is also thought of as a hot process in the body. Heat and acid digest foods while it is being churned in the stomach and then moved through to the beginning of the small intestine where chyme is added to neutralize the burning acids. So if you think about it, it is where you would find fire (heat, burning) in the human body.  Digestive functions of the liver, gall bladder, gut are associated with this chakra.

Yellow is the assigned color to this chakra. This is also the color of flames as they lick up from a roaring fire. The endocrine glands of the adrenals and pancreas are also tied into this chakra. This would indicate there is a sweetness associated with being secure in one’s self, or feeling secure in the development of one’s ego.

Let’s boil this down a bit

I know all of the stuff above seems like gobbledy gook…new age drivel. However, let’s look at it this way: This chakra is your fire in life. It is effected by how much zeal you have for living. If you are secure in yourself, you go for the gusto in a realistic manner and with realistic expectations/fears. If this center if off balance, you have excess stress which may effect the gut and digestion, and/or your body’s ability to manage stress (adrenals and pancreas). Does this mean everything can be simplified down to just utilizing some tools for Manipura and all your ills will go away? Heck no! But they could help, so maybe give them a shot!

Affirmations that may help

  • I love and accept myself.
  • I am secure in my own power.
  • I am strong and courageous.
  • I am worthy of love, kindness, and respect.
  • I choose the best for myself.
  • I express myself in a powerful way.
  • I am proud of my achievements.
  • I honor my self.
  • I choose to engage in healthy relationships.
  • I am authentic.
  • I am the director of my own life.
  • I value my strengths.
  • I stand up for myself.
  • I am free to choose in any situation.
  • I seek opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.
  • I am at peace with myself.

Essential oils that may be of assistance with Manipura:

  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger
  • Sandalwood
  • Rosemary
  • Myrrh
  • Frankincense
  • Rose
  • Jasmine
  • Citrus essential oils

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Herbs that may benefit Manipura:

  • Saffron
  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger
  • Mint
  • Lemon Balm
  • Fennel
  • Marshmallow
  • Slippery Elm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

**Please know that that any products purchased from my shop or from links I post supply me with either direct or passive income (affiliate marketing links). I appreciate each and every purchase. You, as a customer, help to support me and my business and keep this website going.

We covered the root chakra, which is considered the base chakra. That is the foundation upon which all of one’s energy is based. Next is the second chakra called Svadhishthana. It is said to be located two inches below the navel. It is represented by the color orange and it’s symbol includes a crescent moon.

 

This chakra is the energy center of sweetness. It is said to sit in the pelvic area and corresponds to pleasure and enjoyment. This is a step above the concerns of survival attached to the root chakra. It is thought to be associated with feelings and sensations, most notably the feelings and sensations of pleasure, sensuality, intimacy and connection. These are feelings associated with “living in the moment.” How many people so you know who are always thinking about the past and dealing with depression; or those people who are experiencing anxiety about the future? A counselor I once saw told me, “when you have one foot in yesterday and the other in tomorrow, all you do is piss all over today.” This is so very true.

Svadhishthana is also the energy center associated with creativity. I like to remember this as the pelvis being the “cradle of creation.” Really – it is! The uterus is there. It is where the egg and sperm unite to create life. It is also the energy used to “birth” new ideas, works of art, inventions, and so forth. So really, this energy center has to do with connecting to the creative power and power to create change within ourselves.

Obviously there are physical issues that are associated with this energy center. Dysfunctions of the sex organs and urinary system are tied to Svadhishthana. Emotionally, it is tied to feelings of disconnectedness. So while the root is all about feeling like you will survive, the next one up is all about feelings of being connected to those around you (family, friends, significant other, etc). Enjoying the emotions associated with this center are often misunderstood and we are taught at an early age they should bring feelings of guilt. Guilt is a huge challenge associated with Svadhishthana.

I am a huge fan of affirmations. Self-talk, as many refer to the thoughts we run through our minds, can leave lasting results. Negative self-talk results in negative feelings toward our selves; defeatist attitudes can arise; depression and anxiety can then follow. It only then stands to reason that affirmations can result in some positive self-talk. And this positive self-talk can illicite responses that are more positive in nature. This then just snowballs and results in well-being.

Some affirmations that may help:

  • I love and enjoy my body.
  • I have healthy boundaries.
  • I am open to experiencing the present moment through my senses.
  • I am passionate.
  • I feel pleasure and abundance with every breath I take.
  • I nourish my body with healthy food and clean water.
  • I know how to take care of my needs.
  • I value and respect my body.
  • I am open to touch and closeness.
  • I allow myself to experience pleasure.
  • My sexuality is sacred.
  • Emotions are the language of my soul.
  • I take good care of my physical body.
  • I am at peace.

 

Essential oils that might be of assistance:

  • geranium
  • ylang ylang
  • rose
  • lavender
  • blood orange
  • pink grapefuit
  • red mandarin

Ylang ylang is one of the essential oils associated with the second chakra.

 

Herbs that may help to feed Svadhishthana:

  • cinnamon
  • hibiscus (tea)
  • licorice
  • ginger
  • black cohosh

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now YOU can be added to a digital STUDY GROUP led by Lori, The Herbchick. Currently, the group is using the Facebook group format to teach a monthly “live” class. Also included is discussion threads and posts relating to the “topic of the month.”

 

The first month of membership to the group is FREE. After that, the subscription rate is $17.79/month. If you’d like to join the group and learn some traditional and folk wisdom with added scientific research, like The Herbchick LLC on Facebook and contact us (either through this website’s contact me options OR by messaging on the Facebook business page).

Energy centers are not a new concept in alternative healing. For thousands of years traditional modalities like Ayurveda (Indian in origin) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have acknowledged these energy centers. In the west, they are becoming increasingly popular. The New Age popularity of chakras (energy centers) has almost trivialized the existence of them. Many now consider the idea of various energy centers in the body as “hippy nonsense” or “psuedo-guru goobledy gook.”

Chakras are not made up

Chakras, as they are laid out in Traditional Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, do have certain placements which correspond to what we now know are major endocrine organs. Given the time of the development of the ideas of a chakra system, it is entirely plausible that the healers of the time knew there was something in this area, but not exactly what. The endocrine system function and mechanisms are still being studied and new things are discovered all the time. It is not unusual that people gave their best understanding of something when attempting to understand. Let’s face it! It hasn’t been that too long ago since doctors suggested the root cause of disease was bad blood and utilized leeches.

It can be a difficult task to visualize energy. Throughout the ages, chakras have been assigned locations and colors and so forth. In order to better understand the chakra system and why it could possibly be important to you in our modern times, I figure the best place to start would be the root.  The root chakra is located at the base of the spine. It is though to  encompass the very bottom of the pelvic area and the first three vertebrae (from bottom to top). It’s energy is associated with the color red because of the frequency associated with its energy. For now, I’m not going to go just too deep in to the frequencies, etc. In Sanskrit the name for this chakra is Muladhara. It is thought to govern a person’s relationship with physical needs (i.e. food, water, shelter); the feelings of trust, acceptance, mental health…..those mental health aspects that make a person “well grounded.”

The root chakra is called Muladhara. It encompasses the pelvic area and the base of the spine.

 

Disfunction in the Muladhara (root chakra) may manifest as one of the following:

-Kidney function, bladder irritation

-Foot & knee pain

-Anxiety and extreme fears

-Addictive behaviors and/or a lack of self esteem

-Lower back pain

-Reproductive issues

-Gynaecological issues, accompanied with bleeding or circulatory issues

Food and herbs to feed Muladhara

Red foods are thought to support this chakra. Red beets, acai berries*, and so forth can be delicious additions to your diet. Some red anti-oxidant packed juices* may be of assistance. Warm, nurturing foods that provide sustenance are excellent supporters of this chakra (think along the lines of steel cut oats or quinoa porridge). Red Raspberry* has often been used as a toning herbs for the uterine muscles and is highly encouraged by herbalists (including me) throughout pregnancy. It is high in iron, too. Red Clover* is used as a blood purifier. (See the color hint there?)

Supplements high in iron can feed the body’s need for iron. Low iron is considered to be one issue that could be effected by a week root chakra. Liquid drinks high in copper chlorophyllins* can be sued as they supply easily bio-accessible iron.

The kidneys filter waste from the blood. They are thought to be closely associated with the emotion of anger or extreme fear. Increasing one’s water intake can aid in kidney function. It would, in a way, be supplying your body with its basic needs instead of denying them. Lemon added to the water can act as a light diuretic. Astringent herbs like Uva Ursi* (a.k.a bearberry) and Juniper Berries* can help to pull more fluids through the kidneys.

Mental and emotional practices

Meditation and similar techniques (like guided imagery) have been used to try to work on the mental aspects associated with this chakra. It is common in some practices to focus upon a symbol for this chakra while meditating. While this is not my strong area of expertise, I find it interesting that the symbol corresponding to Muladhara is square, much liek the sturdy foundation of a house that makes conenction to the earth and supplies the support for the rest of the structure. It is not a far stretch to think of the functions associated wiht this chakra as being foundations of life. This is the chakra upon which all others are built.

“Rooting” is sometimes suggested. This is where a person works on imagining the root chakra connecting with the earth. Some people refer to this as “grounding” or “earthing.” It is making a physical connection with the earth. Many do this by walking barefoot upon soil. Some find benefit through imagining a root anchoring him/her to the ground. Whichever method(s) you choose, it is clear why this energy center is important.

To truly gain a solid foundation in your own health and wellbeing, addressing the care of the root chakra is important. Whether you think of this energy center as a literal or a figurative thing is not where the emphasis should lie – but instead think of the wonderful ways you can work to build a better foundation for your body, your mind and your spirit.

 

*This asterisk identifies hyperlinks which lead you to products in The Herbchick’s Shop. While my blog reflects no one brand in particular, I have included these links to make purchasing or trying these products easier for you, my reader. I do make a commission from my sales. It is one way I make a living. You are under no obligation to use the products I sell, but if you do, I sincerely appreciate your business and know that you are supporting one more small business in America. Thank you

 

You know what? Sometimes I just want people to be happy. I want them to be giddy. I want them to shut up, drop the everyday drama B.S. and just BE HAPPY! That’s right, DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY! I understand. There’s some awful shit going on in the world. But, you are breathing. You are alive another day to try to improve things for yourself and those around you!

How does a person ditch the “hell in a hand-basket” mood?

I mean, really. How does a person even attempt to get him or herself dislodged from that emotional shitty wasteland? There’s a mix of opinions out there. Of course, I have one, too.

There are a ton of supplements touted as being mood brighteners. Certain amino acids can be of assistance. Many supplements available in the USA are considered neurotransmitters in countries like Canada. Therefore, some of those supplements are not legally allowed to be sold. Personally, I am not convinced the best way to deal with mood issues are by directly tinkering with a person’s neurotransmitters. I prefer to use as many plant substances as possible.

Enter Damiana

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is an herb I have suggested people use as a mood “brightener.” I feel it is an often overlooked gem of herbal tools. This plant is a native of Mexico, southern Texas, California, New Mexico and other south western areas. It is a shrub like bush with yellow flowers. The Mayan people used this plant for various reasons. It seems to have an overall tonic effect on the body (enhances digestion, etc). Because it is close, geographically, to where I live (the Great Lake region of the USA), it is AFFORDABLE!

Damiana is in the same botanical family as Passion flower. Incidentally, like Passion flower, it has long been prized as an anxiolytic.  Anxiolytic is a fancy word meaning it helps to lessen anxiety symptoms.

“..it (Damiana) has long been prized as an anxiolytic.  Anxiolytic is a fancy word meaning it helps to lessen anxiety symptoms.”

There has been research in to Damiana being an efficient aphrodisiac. Scientists have shown it increases the potency of “tired” rats, among other sexual side effects. Some of the studies I have read indicate this is due to Damiana increasing the nitric oxide in the blood stream.

Damiana acts as an aromatase inhibitor. This means it inhibits androgen from being made into estradiol (an estrogen sometimes linked to some types of cancers).

Damiana liqueur has a long history of use in Mexico and some claim it was used in the original recipe for Margaritas.

 

How do I use Damiana?

Damiana is very popular as a tea. It has a mild flavor. I do not add sweeteners to my teas, so it is nice this herb is not super bitter in flavor.

Encapsulated herbs is a simple and effective way to incorporate Damiana into one’s daily regimen. Be sure to find your Damiana from a company reputable for strict quality control and an excellent safety record.

*Note: excessive quantities of Damiana may cause loose stools (diarrhea). 

You can find Damiana in the Herbchick’s Shop*.

*The studies mentioned  and cited do not directly mention Nature’s Sunshine Products. Any Nature’s Sunshine Products purchased via the Herbchick’s Shop provide commissions for Lori the Herbchick….and she thanks you 😉

 

References

Damiana Benefits & Information (Turnera Diffusa). (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-damiana.html

MIND-BLOWING BENEFITS OF DAMIANA HERB. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://globalfoodbook.com/benefits-of-damiana-aphrodisiac

Szewczyk, K., & Zidorn, C. (2014). Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana—Turnera diffusa. Journal of Ethnopharmacology152(3), 424-443. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.019

Turnera diffusa – Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved September 15, 2017, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turnera_diffusa

“Time, time, time
See what’s become of me
While I looked around
For my possibilities
I was so hard to please”

(The Bangles – Hazy Shade Of Winter Lyrics | MetroLyrics)

 

Oh the possibilities!

It is time for me to talk about Thyme. Many people have heard for this plant, but few have first hand knowledge or use it. I feel it is an often neglected plant as it can be easily disregarded as “just a kitchen herb.” But what an herb it is! It holds the potential to be a huge immune booster in this time of anti-biotic resistance. You see, thyme has long been used in respiratory ailments. The ancient Romans used it for this purposes and are thought to be the ones who introduced it to Britain. During the time of the plague of Black Death, small bouquets of thyme were sniffed to aid those hoping to avoid catching the illness. IT has been noted by the herbalist Culpepper to be “…a noble strengthener of the lungs, as notable a one as grows, nor is there a better remedy growing for hooping cough. It purgeth the body of phlegm and is an excellent remedy for shortness of breath. It is so harmless you need not fear the use of it. An ointment made of it takes away hot swellings and warts, helps the sciatica and dullness of sight and takes away any pains and hardness of the spleen: it is excellent for those that are troubled with the gout and the herb taken anyway inwardly is of great comfort to the stomach.” Gerard, a notable herbalist in the Middle Ages,  suggested its use for pains in the head, leprosy and the “falling sickness.”

Have you used Listerine? One of the ingredients in the popular mouthwash is Thymol. This is the oil of thyme. While many sources insist the active ingredients in Listerine have no benefit at all, I beg to differ, All of the active ingredients have been shown to be bactericidal to some degree. Not only does it taste great with lemon on baked white fish, but it has been long used in the meat industry during the preservation process. Studies as recent as 2016 show thyme has a bactericidal effect on the the strains of bacteria causing meat born pathogens, like listeria, etc.

At a time where a lot of us are coming out the “Hazy Shades of Winter,” Thyme is one natural tool in the chest to combat those seasonal illnesses which seem to crop up.

Thyme to use it

I, personally, love to use thyme for respiratory illness. There is a blend I particularly suggest to my family and clients, called Fenugreek & Thyme, which may help to reduce the inflammation of the sinus mucous membranes and relieve that feeling of pressure in the head.

A tea (decoction) of thyme herb may be sipped to help when there is sore throat and/or inflammation of the tonsils.

Thyme has been used as a carmative, as well. This means it relaxes smooth muscles and allows for the alleviation of indigestion like feelings.

Some studies suggest that using Thyme may enhance the effect of some other antibacterial substances. In an age of antibiotic resistant infections, this is good to know.

The essential oil of thyme (thymol) has been shown to be antimicrobial in many studies. I like to add a few drops of thyme oil to my mop water and to the solution I use to clean my bathroom. I have seen the essential oil of thyme included in many blends used as deodorants, both for the armpits and the house. Making a rinse containing a few drops of thyme essential oil may help to prevent skin rashes and/or infections. Studies have been done on the decoction of thyme used as a wash, of sorts, to deter acne. In one such study, it outperformed OTC acne remedies.

**Thyme oil may be irritating to some. It is suggested to do a patch test when investigating using the essential oil for yourself. It is contraindicated in times of pregnancy.

Isn’t about Thyme you use it, too?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/t/thygar16.html, accessed 2/21/2017

 

http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-thyme.html, accessed 02/21/2017

http://www.healthline.com/health/health-benefits-of-thyme, accessed 02/21/2017

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-823-thyme.aspx?activeingredientid=823&activeingredientname=thyme, accessed 02/21/2017

http://www.offthegridnews.com/alternative-health/medicinal-uses-of-thyme/, accessed 02/21/2017

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266016.php, accessed 02/21/2017