learn the medicinal uses of herbs

I own and have owned LOTS of books on herbal and alternative healing. My very favorite book, which has been revised a few times, is “Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements” by Phyllis A. Balch and James F. Balch.

I like to use this as a guidebook because it lists herbs, vitamins, minerals, and all manner of nutritional healing for just about any infirmity. Then I go to other books for more details on any one particular herb or natural healing item. This is the one book I would never want to be without. All other books are supplemental reading.

Here is information about the book (which you can buy from just about any bookstore).

Product Details:
ISBN: 1583331433
Format: Paperback, 304pp
Pub. Date: September 2002
Publisher: Avery

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Prescription for Nutritional Healing, now in its third edition, has long been America’s bestselling book on natural health, with nearly 6 million copies in print. Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements draws on that respected resource to present authoritative information about some three hundred fifty of the most important supplements available today in a handy, pocket-sized format. Revised and expanded from the first edition, which sold nearly 400,000 copies, it covers how these supplements work, how to use them, and what to look for when choosing supplement products. Here is a straightforward, easty-to-understand guide to vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, antioxidants, phytochemicals, herbs, and more.

Author Biography: Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, has been a leading nutritional counselor and advocate of natural therapies for more than two decades. She is the founder and owner of a health-foods store, Good Things Naturally, in Greenfield, Indiana, and frequently lectures on the subject of nutrition and natural healing.

James F. Balch, M.D., is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the author of five books on health and nutrition.

Here is some info I have saved on herbal preparation methods.

CAUTIONS: Herbal remedies should not be used by the elderly, small children, or pregnant or nursing mothers, except under the direction of a physician. Observe cautions for individual herbs. Do not begin taking herbal remedies without consulting your healthcare professional.

Herbal Preparation Methods:

• Leaves, flowers, roots, and other herb parts – Keep for about a year after harvesting in cool place. Store in sterilized, dark glass containers with airtight lids. (May also store in new brown paper bags which must be kept dry and away from light.) Herbs frozen in freezer bags keep up to 6 months.
• Infusions – Make fresh daily. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
• Decoctions – Consume within 48 hours. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
• Tinctures, syrups, and essential oils – Keep for several months or years. Store in dark glass bottles in a cool environment away from sunlight. * Store syrup in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
• Ointments, creams, and capsules – Keep for several months. Store in dark glass jars (or plastic containers.)

• Infusion:
  Place 1 tsp (2 to 3 g) dried or 2 tsp (4 to 6 g) fresh herb in the strainer of the tisane cup and place the strainer in the cup. Fill the cup with 1 cup of freshly boiled water. Cover the cup with the lid and infuse for 5 to 10 minutes before removing the tisane strainer. (Add 1 tsp honey to sweeten, if desired.) Dosage: Take 3 to 4 doses (500 ml) each day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
  Use up to 1 ounce dried herb in 1 pint water. (Source: Growing and Using the Healing Herbs Gae Weiss Shandor Weiss)
  See also HerbFest Seminar Notes: Herbal Tea Workshop
• Hot Infused Oil:
  Stir 250 g dried or 500 g fresh chopped herb and 750 ml olive, sunflower, or other vegetable oil together in a glass bowl over a saucepan of boiling water. Cover and simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool, then pour into the wine press (or jug if not available) with a jelly bag in place. Collect the strained oil in a jug, pressing all the liquid out of the herb. Pour the infused oil into clean, dark glass bottles, using a funnel. Seal and label each bottle. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Cold Infused Oil:
  Place 250 g dried or 500 g fresh herb in a clear glass jar. Pour in oil until it completely covers the herb, close the jar and shake well. Place the jar in a sunny spot, such as on a windowsill, and leave for 2 to 6 weeks. Pour the oil and herb mixture into a jelly bag, secured to the rim of a jug or bowl with string (or use a wine press). Allow the oil to filter through the bag. Squeeze out the remaining oil from the bag. Pour the infused oil into dark glass bottles, label and store. Alternatively, repeat the whole process with the infused oil and fresh herbs. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Decoction:
  Place 20 g dried or 40 g fresh herb in a saucepan. Cover with 750 ml cold water and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the liquid is reduced by about 1/3 (to about 500 ml). Strain the liquid through a sieve into a jug. Pour the required amount into a cup, then cover the jug and store in a cool place. Dosage: Take 3 to 4 doses (500 ml) each day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
  Use up to 1 ounce of dried herb to 1 pint of water. (Source: Growing and Using the Healing Herbs Gae Weiss Shandor Weiss)
• Cold Maceration:
  Pour 500 ml of cold water on to 25 g of herb and leave to stand overnight. Strain and use as you would a decoction. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Tincture:
  Place 200 g dried or 300 g fresh herb chopped into small pieces in a large, clean glass jar and pour on 1 litre of alcohol (Vodka of 35 to 40 % is ideal), ensuring that the herb is covered. Close and label the jar. Shake well for 1 to 2 minutes then store in a cool dark place for 10 to 14 days, shaking the jar every 1 to 2 days. Set up a wine press, placing a muslin or nylon mesh bag securely inside. Pour in the mixture and collect the liquid in the jug. Slowly close the wine press, extracting the remaining liquid from the herb until no more drips appear. Discard the leftover herb. Pour the tincture into clean, dark glass bottles using a funnel. When full, stopper with a cork or screw top and label the bottles. Dosage: Take 1 tsp (5 ml) diluted in 25 ml of water or fruit juice. 2 to 3 times a day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Capsules and Powders:
  Pour a small amount of powdered herb into a saucer and slide the size 00 capsule halves towards one another, scooping up the powder (approximately 250 mg of powdered herb per capsule.) (Or use a capsule-making tray.) When the halves of the capsule are full of powder, slide them together without spilling the powder and store in airtight, dark glass containers in a cool place. Dosage: Take 2 to 3 capsules twice a day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Syrup:
  Pour 500 ml of infusion or decoction into a pan. Add 500 g honey or unrefined sugar. Gently heat, stirring constantly until all the honey or sugar has dissolved and the mixture has a syrupy consistency. Remove from the heat and cool. Pour the cooled syrup into sterilized glass jars using a funnel and store in a cool dark place. Seal the jars with cork stoppers, as syrups are prone to ferment and may explode if kept in screw-topped bottles. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
  Combine 2 ounces dried herb with 1 quart water in a large pot. Boild it down until it is reduced to 1 pint, then add 1 to 2 ounces honey. Double the amount of herb if using fresh fruit, leaves or roots. (Source: Growing and Using the Healing Herbs Gae Weiss Shandor Weiss)
• Ointment:
  Melt 500 g of petroleum jelly or soft paraffin wax in a glass bowl set in a pan of boiling water, or use a double boiler. Add 60 g dried or 150 g fresh finely cut herb and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring continuously. Pour the herb mixture into a jelly bag secured to the rim of a jug with string, and allow the liquid to filter through. Quickly pour the molten ointment into jars before it sets in the jug. Place the lid on each jar without securing it firmly. When cool, tighten the lids and label. Application: Apply topically 3 times a day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Cream:
  Melt 150 g of emulsifying wax in a glass bowl set in a pan of boiling water or a double-boiler. Add 70 g glycerine, 80 ml water, and 30 g dried or 75 g fresh herb while stirring, and simmer for 3 hours. Strain the mixture through a wine press or a jelly bag. Stir slowly but continuously until it cools and sets. With a small knife or spatula, place the set cream into dark glass jars. Tighten the lids and label. Store in a refrigerator as soon as possible. Application: Apply topically to the affected area 2 to 3 times a day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Poultice:
  Simmer enough herb to cover the affected area for 2 minutes. Squeeze out any excess liquid, rub some oil on to the affected area to prevent sticking and apply the herb while hot (but not so hot as to burn the skin). Bandage the herb securely in place using gauze or cotton strips. Leave on for up to 3 hours, as required. Application: Apply a new poultice every 2 to 3 hours. Repeat as often as required. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Compress:
  Wash your hands thoroughly and soak a soft cloth or clean flannel in the lotion, which consists of 500 ml infusion or decoction, or 25 ml tincture in 500 ml water.. Wring out the excess liquid. Before applying, rub some oil on the affected area to prevent sticking. Place the compress against the affected area. For pain and swellings, secure the compress with plastic film and safety pins and leave for up to 1 to 2 hours. Re-apply as required. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Steam Inhalation:
  Pour 1 litre of freshly boiled water into a large bowl, add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil and stir well. Alternately, make an infusion of 25 g of herb to 1 litre of water, brew for 15 minutes, and pour into a bowl. Cover your head and the bowl covering the bowl also with a towel, close your eyes, and inhale the steam for about 10 minutes or until the preparation cools. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Gargle & Mouthwash:
  Make an infusion but allow it to stand for 15 to 20 minutes in order to increase its astringency. Strain, then gargle, or rinse the mouth with a cupful. Alternately, use a decoction or dilute about 5 ml of tincture in 100 ml of hot water and use in the same way. Repeat as often as required unless otherwise specified. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Herbal Bath:
  Add 500 ml of strained infusion or 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to a running bath. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Skin Wash:
  Make an infusion, strain it and bathe the affected area. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)
• Eyebath:
  Make a small quantity of an infusion or use an herbal teabag. Strain the liquid carefully into a sterilized eyebath. Alternately, add 2 to 3 drops of tincture to an eyebath filled with water that has just boiled. Allow to cool and place the eyebath firmly over the eye. Tip the head back and bathe the eye by continuously blinking. Repeat up to 3 times a day. (Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants Andrew Chevallier)

Measurements:

1 drop = 0.05 ml
1 ml = 20 drops
5 ml = 1 teaspoon
10 ml = 1 dessertspoon
15 to 20 ml = 1 tablespoon
30 ml = 1 ounce
70 ml = 1 sherry glass
150 ml = 1 wine glass

I wish I knew everything I once knew about herbal healing. Here is some info I have saved on putting together an herbal first aid kit.

Herbal Remedy Kit – Dry Herbs

NOTE: Herbs are natural healing products with relatively few side effects that help the body to heal itself without the adverse effects of chemical agents; but there are warnings and cautions to be observed with herbs. Consult your physician before starting any new health care regime, and make certain that your physician is aware of what home remedies you are using. As with any other medicine, herbal remedies should be reported to Emergency Medical Technicians who transport you to a hospital in a medical crisis because certain herbs may be contraindicated or interfere with certain medications.

Grinding dry herbs – You can make a powder of dry herbs by chopping large plant parts into small pieces, then crushing them with a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)

• Basil is used topically to treat acne and taken internally to stimulate the immune system and for intestinal parasites. Use as an infusion or tincture. Basil contains antioxidants that help prevent cell damage; but it also contains estragole that has been shown to produce liver tumors in mice. Basil is considered safe by the FDA; but caution should be noted. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Basil is used to prepare holy water and pots of basil are placed below church alters in some churches. Basil is reported to have been found growing in Christ’s tomb after his resurrection. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Tender annual grown best in full sun with ordinary, well drained soil. Propagates by seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat athlete’s foot, bad breath, body odor, cough (expectorant), headache, warts. In some countries, people rub the leaves on their skin as insect repellent. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Bay may be added to bath water for relaxation, used topically as an infusion or tincture as a mld antiseptic on minor cuts and scrapes, and used as a household product to repel cockroaches. Bay should be avoided by pregnant women and topical use may cause a rash in those with sensitive skin. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Apollo’s temple at Delphi had a roof made entirely of bay leaves, which was believed to protect it against disease, witchcraft, and lightning. NOTE: All laurels except sweet bay (Laurus nobilis) are poisonous. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Tender shrub grown best in full sun or partial shade with well drained soil. Propagates by cuttings or seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Helps prevent migraine. Use to treat altitude sickness. Use with diabetes (helps the body use insulin more efficiently.) (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: B-complex vitamins, iron, vitamins A and C. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Celery seed can be taken internally in the form of an infusion or tincture as a diuretic to treat hypertension and CHF, and to reduce blood sugar levels. CAUTION: Diuretics cause the loss of essential electrolytes with water loss, and should never be taken (especially by pregnant women) without consulting your physician. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Use to treat amenorrhea, angina, arthritis, cardiac arrythmias, hypertension, high cholesterol, dizziness, gout. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Antheme, anthemic acid, anthesterol, apigenin, calcium, chamazulene, essential oils, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, tannic acid, tiglic acid, vitamin A. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Chamomile may be taken internally in the form of an infusion or tincture as an antispasmodic to treat digestive disturbances, to heal stomach ulcers, and to stimulate the immune system. It can be taken as an infusion for relaxation as it depresses the Central Nervous System. It is effective topically as an infusion or a compress for wound infections. Chamomile may be contraindicated by those who are allergic to ragweed. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Egyptians held chamomile above all other herbs for its healing properties. Greek physicians prescribed chamomile for fevers and female disorders. Infused flowers are used as a tea as a general tonic and a sedative. It may also be used in a bath to relieve sun or wind-burned skin. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Hardy perennial best grown in full sun or partial shade with any soil, even poor soil Propagates by division or seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat allergies, athlete’s foot, bunions, carpal tunnel syndrome, diverticulitis, fungal infections, gingivitis, heartburn, hives, indigestion, insect bites and stings, insomnia, psoriasis, skin problems, sores, sties, and ulcers. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Cinnamic aldehyde, essential oils, eugenol, metholeugenol, mucilage, sucrose, starch, tannin. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Cinnamon kills many decay- and disease-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and it contains eugenol, which acts as a natural anesthetic. It can be sprinkled into minor wounds before they have been washed. As a digestive aid, cinnamon helps to break down fats in the digestive system. Pregnant women should exercise caution, and only use cinnamon in small amounts in their food. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Use to treat athlete’s foot, gas and heartburn, and nausea. Use for diabetes (helps control blood sugar levels). (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Caryophyline, eugenol, eugenyl acetate. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Clove may be used as an infusion for digestive upsets. Clove contains antioxidants that help prevent cell damage, and also contains eugenol, which has been found to be a weak tumor promoter. Until further research can establish how this balance tilts, those prone to cancers should not use clove medicinally. Clove cigarettes are NOT recommended for those trying to stop smoking, as clove cigarettes contain 50 to 60 percent tobacco, and clove releases many carcinogens when it burns. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Use to treat altitude sickness, bunions, cuts and wounds, diabetes (helps control blood sugar levels), intestinal worms, nausea, pain, toothache. Helps prevent macular degeneration. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Allantoin, consolidine, mucilage, phosphorus, potassium, pyrrolizidine, starch, tannins, vitamins A, C, and E. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Comfrey contains allantoin which promotes the growth of new cells in wound healing. Comfrey roots contain more than twice as much allantoin as the leaves, and powdered root can be sprinkled on clean cuts and scrapes after washing. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Planting: Hardy perennial best grown in full sun or partial shade with fertile, moist soil. Propagates by division or seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat bruises, carpal tunnel syndrome, dandruff, heartburn, hemorrhoids, sores, vaginitis, and wounds. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Arabinose, betaine, copper, echinacen, echinacin B, echinacoside, echinolone, enzymes, fructose, fatty acids, galactose, glucose, glucuronic acid, inulin, inuloid, iron, pentadecadiene, polyacetylene compounds, polysaccharides, potassium, protein, resin, rhamnose, sucrose, sulfur, tannins, xylose, vitamins A, C, and E. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Echinacea kills a broad range of disease-causing viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. It contains the natural antibiotic, echinacoside. It also contains echinacein that counteracts germs’ tissue-dissolving enzyme, to help the body fight off infection. Echinacein also encourages fibroblasts to work more efficiently, thus helping broken skin to heal faster with new tissue growth. Echinacea helps to boost the body’s immune system by increasing the macrophages’ ability to destroy germs. Echinacea may be used as a tincture or a decoction. The tingling sensation of echinacea on the tongue is a normal occurrence, and it is not considered harmful. No evidence of echinacea toxicity is known. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Use to treat athlete’s foot, bladder infections, burns, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, earache, gingivitis, herpes, HIV, laryngitis, Lyme disease, pneumonia, sinusitis, sties, tendinitis, tonsillitis, tuberculosis, viral infections, wounds, and yeast infections. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Anethole, calcium, camphene cymene, chlorine, dipentene, essential oils, fenchone, limonene, oleic acid, petroselinic acid, phellandrene, pinene, 7-hydroxycoumarin, stigmasterol, sulfur, vitamins A and C. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Fennel seeds may be chewed, or an infusion or tincture used to treat digestive upsets. A fennel infusion or tincture may also bring on menstruation. Fennel has a mild estrogenic effect. Pregnant women should not use medicinal amounts of fennel. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Fennel was one of the nine herbs held sacred by the Anglo-Saxons because of it’s believed power against evil. Charlemagne declared in AD 812 that fennel was essential in every imperial garden because of its healing properties. Note: Do not take excessive doses. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Tender perennial best grown in full sun with any well drained soil. Propagates by seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat amenorrhea, asthma, heartburn, hypertension, and respiratory ailments. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Allicin, allyl disulfides, calcium, copper, essential oils, germanium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, phytoncides, potassium, selenium, sulfur, unsaturated aldehydes, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Garlic can be chewed, chopped, bruised, or crushed to turn inert alliin into antibiotic allicin. It is a powerful antibiotic, and has also been used to lower blood sugar levels. Garlic is used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent blood clots. It is shown to help eliminate lead and other toxic heavy metals from the body. Garlic enters the breastmilk; so should be avoided by nursing mothers. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• The builders of pyramids and Roman soldiers on long marches were fed a daily ration of garlic because it was believed to have remarkable healing powers and to protect against black magic. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Hardy perennial best grown in full sun with fertile loam. Propagates by segments of bulb “cloves”. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat allergies, altitude sickness, angina, arthritis, athlete’s foot, bronchitis, burns, cardiac arrythmias, diabetes, earache, fungal infections, headache, herpes, high cholesterol, HIV, hypertension, insect bites & stings, Lyme disease, pneumonia, sinusitis, sore throat, sties, tonsillitis, tuberculosis, ulcers, vaginitis, viral infections, worms, wounds, and yeast infections. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Essential oils, menthol, menthone, methyl acetate, tannic acid, terpenes, vitamin C. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• Peppermint may be taken internally as an infusion for digestive upsets and a decongestant. It may also be used in an herbal bath. Avoid internal use of pure peppermint oil, as it can be toxic. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Planting: Hardy perennial best grown in full sun or partial shade with moist, fertile soil. Propagates by division, runners. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat athlete’s foot, backache, bad breath, earache, emphysema, fever, gallstones, gingivitis, headache, heartburn, hives, indigestion, morning sickness, nausea, pain, scabies, and sinusitis. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: Bitters, borneol, camphene, camphor, camosic acid, camosol, cineole, essential oils, pinene, resin, tannins. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• An infusion or tincture of rosemary may be used to settle the stomach or to clear a stuffy nose. Large amounts of rosemary can cause poisoning. Avoid internal use of rosemary oil. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Rosemary was once burned in sick chambers to purify the air, and branches were strewn in law courts to protect against typhus, known as “jail fever”. Rosemary was carried in neck pouches to be sniffed while traveling through areas where the plague was prevalent. Rosemary leaves stimulate circulation and eases pain by increasing blood supply where applied, and it aids in the digestion of fats. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Tender perennial best grown in full sun or partial shade with light, well drained soil. Propagates by cuttings. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat Alzheimer’s Disease, amenorrhea, arthritis, hair loss, depression, fainting, pain, and wrinkles. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

• Chemical and Nutrient Content: B-complex vitamins, borneol, cavacrol, chromium, essential oils, fluorine, gum, iron, silicon, tannins, thiamine, thyme oil, thymol, triterpenic acids, vitamins C and D. (Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical A-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements James F. Balch & Phyllis A. Balch)
• A thyme tincture may be used as an antiseptic on minor wounds. An infusion may help settle the stomach, soothe a cough, or relieve menstrual symptoms. Never take thyme oil internally, as it can be toxic. Thyme may cause a rash in sensitive individuals. (Source: Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines, Michael Castleman, Prevention Magazine, Editor)
• Roman soldiers bathed in thyme water for vigor. Egyptians used thyme in embalming because of its powerful antiseptic and preservative properties. It is still an ingredient of embalming fluid, and will also preserve anatomical and herbarium specimens and protect paper from mold. Thyme is the first herb listed in the Holy Herb Charm recited in the Middle Ages, and is featured in a charming recipe from 1600 “to enable one to see the Fairies.” A sweet infusion of thyme can be used for coughs, colds, and sore throats. (Source: Herbs by Lesley Bremness)
• Planting: Hardy evergreen subshrub best grown in full sun with any soil. Propagates by cuttings, layers, seed. (Source: Herb Bible Peter McHoy & Pamela Westland)
• Use to treat athlete’s foot, amenorrhea, headache, and sties. (Source: Green Pharmacy James A. Duke, Ph.D.)

Measurements:

1 ml = 20 drops
5 ml = 1 teaspoon
10 ml = 1 dessertspoon
20 ml = 1 tablespoon
70 ml = 1 sherry glass
150 ml = 1 wine glass

Storage:

Leaves, flowers, roots, and other herb parts – Keep for about a year after harvesting in cool place. Store in sterilized, dark glass containers with airtight lids. (May also store in new brown paper bags which must be kept dry and away from light.) Herbs frozen in freezer bags keep up to 6 months.

• Infusions – Make fresh daily. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
• Decoctions – Consume within 48 hours. Store in refrigerator or cool place.
• Tinctures, syrups, and essential oils – Keep for several months or years. Store in dark glass bottles in a cool environment away from sunlight.
• Ointments, creams, and capsules – Keep for several months. Store in dark glass jars (or plastic containers.)