Burns and scrapes are common events in households that spend a lot of time outside or households with a number of children. In fact, if you cook a lot, you may experience moderate to severe burns on occasion. In these situations, you likely reach for cold water, ice, and some kind of over the counter burn ointment. Continue reading →

Basil is one of the herbs that can be easily overlooked when you are talking about herbs for medicine or herbs for health of any kind. In fact, most people consider basil to be a cooking herb or diffused in an oil mixture for aroma. The truth is, there are several benefits to using basil in your natural medicine recipes. Here are a few of those benefits and information on each.

Pain Reduction

Pain reduction is one of the leading reasons that people use basil. Basil can help with tension headaches, minor aches and pains, and muscle aches. The ideal way to do this is by infusing oils and lotions with fresh basil and applying the mixture topically. You can also infuse oil and use basil oil directly on the area. Though it can be used in tea, it will likely not be a flavor you would enjoy. If topically is not an option, consider using dehydrated basil in capsules.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation can happen to anyone, and it can cause a multitude of problems. For example, inflammation can increase headaches, joint problems, and tension throughout the body that can lead to anxiety. Basil can be taken orally in either a tea, food, or capsule form to help reduce inflammation. This can be done daily, several times a day, or as needed. You can even mix basil with various other herbs that help fight inflammation, like turmeric. Continue reading →

You may already be growing this herb and not realize it. If the weather is warm where you’re at, there’s a good chance that this medicinal herb – which is more often than not considered a pesky weed – is now growing in your very own yard or somewhere close by. Continue reading →