Herb box
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Herb boxes are a great way to keep some simple home remedies handy and they double up as a great looking display. Naturopath Jennifer McLennan gives her favourite combinations.
"Settle the nerves box" –contains herbs that have been traditionally used to settle the nervous system.
Lemon balm - belongs to the mint family. It has traditionally been used to help soothe and calm the nerves. Pick the fresh top leaves of the plant which are highest in the volatile oils, and infuse 1.5-4.5 grams in hot water 2-3 times per day. It may also assist with cognition and memory.
Lavender is an aromatic herb with a long history of use traditionally used to help with the relaxation of the nervous system. Pick the fresh flowers and put 1.5 grams in 150ml of hot water and drink 2-3 times a day. The flowers can also be dried and made into a small pillow. Place the pillow under your bed at night to help with sleep.
Chamomile is an all rounder when it comes to its uses. Internally it is helpful as a calming herb for both the nervous system and digestion. Use the flowers dried or fresh in a tea, or use the infused flowers externally on inflamed skin.
"Beauty box" for external skin care.
Aloe Vera is a succulent plant that loves dry hot conditions. It is used externally to help with minor wound healing, sun burn, inflamed or irritated skin. Break off a fleshy leaf and rub the clear gel on the affected area, it's cooling and soothing.
Calendula is a well known yellow flowering plant which belongs to the daisy family. The flowers are used internally and externally to help relieve inflammation. Often calendula is made into an ointment or cream for skin healing, but at home you can make a poultice with the fresh flowers and apply to the affected area wrapped in muslin. Calendula may help to relieve minor cuts, grazes, and wounds, and historically it has been used for acne lesions.
Rosemary has traditionally been used for healthy hair. Although it is the oil which has been used for this purpose, at home you can crush a handful of the leaves in a pestle and mortar to release the essential oils. Rub this thoroughly into the scalp and leave for a few moments before shampooing out.
"Kitchen cupboard first aid" box
Peppermint is very easy to grow, preferring partial shade. Peppermint is carminative and antispasmodic, and great to have on hand when a bout of indigestion, excess wind and bloating hits. Add to a salad direct from the garden for flavour and digestive benefits, or simply infuse in hot water.
Sage likes a dry sunny location for best results. It is best used in a gargle to help relieve sore throats.
Brahmi is a small creeping herb that likes damp conditions and sunshine. It is an Indian herb, traditionally used for its assistance with cognition, and memory. This herb is great to have around for when you need that extra brain power, uses the leaves in a salad or steeped in hot water.
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