basil – Earth to Kathy

January 8, 2018

Do Essential Oil Diffusers Really Work?

So, do essential oil diffusers really work? There are many different types of essential oil diffusers dispersing aroma into the air. Here is a review of the varieties: Cool Mist Diffusers Cool mist essential oil diffusers, also called ultrasonic diffusers, typically involve adding about 5 ounces of water and a […]

April 3, 2018

Absorption Enhancement

Some drugs are administered as a patch or ointment thru the skin. Certain plant substances have shown potential in aiding cutaneous absorption enhancement / transdermal delivery of medicines. Essential oils with their fat soluble structure have been studied as a potential skin penetration enhancer. Absorption Enhancement Recipes Blog Articles […]

April 3, 2018

Acne

Acne results from blocked skin follicles, encouraging bacteria, and resulting in infection and pimples. During puberty, hormonal changes result in increased sebum production that can cause the blocked pores. Here are a few basic suggestions: Keep the face clean, but don’t over-wash. Don’t touch the face with unclean hands and spread […]

April 3, 2018

Analgesic / Pain

Analgesic substances reduce pain in a variety of ways: as a local anesthetic or anti-nociceptive, and also via the nervous system. The menthol constituent in peppermint has shown topical anti-nociceptive activity, lavender aromatherapy has shown to calm nerves after surgery to help reduce pain, and comfrey has been used for […]

April 3, 2018

Anti-inflammatory

Inflammation is our body’s response to infection and injury. Its purpose is to clear out foreign cells and dead cells from the local area. Inflammation is characterized by increased redness, heat, pain, and swelling to an area. Anti-inflammatory herbs reduce inflammation in various ways. For example, spices like turmeric, ginger, […]

April 3, 2018

Antibacterial

There are many types of bacteria, and not all bacteria are bad. Some good bacteria in the body help aid in digestion and fight infection. Pathogenic bacteria can cause disease. Wikipedia does an excellent job of categorizing and listing the most common types of bacteria: Pathogenic Bacteria List. Antibacterial herbs […]

April 3, 2018

Anti-fungal

Certain herbs are known for their anti-fungal actions. Most research studies have been in vitro; more human studies are necessary. Recipes to Help with Fungal Infections Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description […]

April 3, 2018

Antimicrobial

Herbs and essential oils are known for their antimicrobial potential, and have been studied for their abilities to inhibits or kill microbes including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and yeast. It is important to understand therapeutic margin for each botanical, the amount at which a substance is both safe and effective to […]

April 3, 2018

Antioxidant

Antioxidant herbs, fruits, and vegetables have the potential to reduce oxidation, which can cause free radicals to form. This can then contribute to aging and disease. Eat Your Colors! Antioxidants protect your cells! They are found in the richly colorful fruits and vegetables that we eat. Here are some examples: RED […]

April 4, 2018

Anti-parasite

Also called anthelmintic, anti-parasitic herbs can help the body eliminate or destroy worms and parasites such as tapeworm. Significant essential oils studied include oregano and thyme, and herbs include wormwood and hyssop. Caution is necessary when using herbs as anti-parasitics, related to their low therapeutic margin. Recipes to Help with […]

April 4, 2018

Antiviral

Antiviral herbs and essential oils may help reduce viral infections. Echinacea has proven noteworthy in helping with prevention of common cold viruses. For most botanicals, more research is needed to determine safe and effective amounts. Antiviral – Recipes Blog Articles Can essential oils offer antiviral activities against the flu? Read […]

April 5, 2018

Alteratives

Alteratives are blood cleansing, and help the body to improve metabolic processes and thus work more efficiently absorbing nutrients, and removing wastes. Examples of herbs include garlic, burdock, echinacea, dandelion, turmeric, holy basil, and yellow dock, plantain, and red clover. Alterative herbs are best to be taken in small doses over […]