geranium – Earth to Kathy

February 6, 2017

Explaining the Ingredients: Skin Moisturizing Herbal Lotion or Oil Recipe

As a massage therapist, in the Winter months, I see many clients come in with super dry skin, even to the point of being cracked and itchy. Time to whip up some thick and soothing Skin Moisturizing Herbal Lotion! First, I created a tincture of burdock root, yellow dock, plantain, and calendula. Then, […]

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

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

Anti-allergy / Anti-histamine

Allergies can be topical, respiratory, or digestive, and result in an immune system overreaction to a substance. This can release histamines, which cause wheezing, rashes, sneezing, vomiting, and even anaphylactic shock. People can be allergic to specific foods, plants, animals, and chemicals. Human studies are lacking, and more research is […]

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

Aphrodisiac

Aphrodisiac substances may promote passion and sexual arousal. Here is a link to an interesting review of aphrodisiac herbs written by Cathy Wong, ND: Devil’s Claw and Other Natural Aphrodisiacs Aphrodisiac Recipes Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with […]