Chamomile

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomile) is an annual herb belonging to the
Compositae family and is native to Europe. However, now it grows wild across
The world. Its hollow, erect, branching stem grows 20 inches tall. The plant bears
Light green feather-like leaves and daisy-like flowers and smells like pineapple or
apple


Chamomile herb and flowers are said to have several medicinal uses including
Tonic, stomachic, anodyne, antispasmodic, laxative, diaphoretic, analgesic,
Carminative, anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Chamomile flower tea is



A popular herbal tea and is good for treating insomnia and other such nervous
Conditions. Because of the anti-inflammatory properties of the herb it is
Considered good for rheumatism, arthritis, and other painful swellings. It is also
An antispasmodic for intestinal and menstrual cramps, relieving gas pains and
Acts as a very mild but efficient laxative and loosens tight muscles.

The herb is also used extensively in manufacturing lotions, massage oils and
Other beauty products as it can help reduce eczema itching and other skin
Inflammation. Chamomile preparations are mild enough for using on sensitive
Young skin of infants suffering from skin conditions. Chamomile mouthwash can
Be used for soothing mouth sores and gum disease.

Chamomile flower infusion can be applied externally as a wash or compress for
Skin inflammations, sunburn, burns, and added to the bath for relaxing tired, achy
Muscles and feet and softening the skin. The flowers are made into a salve for
Treating hemorrhoids and wounds. The dried flowers are used in potpourri,
Scented candles, incense sticks, linen pouches, herb pillows, and are also used
As insect repellents.

Apart from its extensive use for making a delightful and beneficial herbal tea,
Chamomile flowers are also used in salads.

Ginseng

Ginseng herb has a long history of use as an alternative medicine going back over 5,000 years, and appears on several continents (origin unknown); it is and was used extensively in Native American medicine. The root is adaptogen, cardio tonic, demulcent, panacea, sedative, sialagogue, stimulant, tonic and stomachic, its remarkable ability to help the body adapt to mental and emotional stress, fatigue, heat, cold, and even hunger is confirmed and documented! The major constituents in Ginseng are Triterpenoid saponins, Ginsenosides, Acetylenic compounds, Panaxans, and Sesquiterpenes. Taken over an extended period it is used to increase mental and physical performance. It is medicinal and therapeutic for the whole body. A very powerful medicinal herb, it both stimulates and relaxes the nervous system, encourages the secretion of hormones, improves stamina, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels and increases resistance to disease. The ginsenosides that produce these effects are very similar to the body’s own natural stress hormones. It is used in the treatment of debility associated with old age or illness, lack of appetite, insomnia, stress, shock and chronic illness. Ginseng also increases immune function, resistance to infection, and supports liver function. The leaf is emetic and expectorant. The root is candied and used as a an edible medicinal kind of candy.Ginseng stimulates and increases endocrine activity in the body. Promotes a mild increase in metabolic activity and relaxes heart and artery movements. Stimulates the medulla centers and relaxes the central nervous system.




Ginseng is said to be highly good for the metabolism, and promotes general well being. It has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, but this seems to be totally based on the fact that it relaxes the overly tense person a bit. If you suffer from back pain or TMJ adding this to a tea of Catnip and slippery elm may help. It is also presumably useable as an ingredient in a Meade or magewine

Goldenseal

Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) is a perennial herb indigenous to Canada
and eastern United States. Also known as ‘Yellow root’, it belongs to the
Ranunculaceae family. The stem is hairy and purplish above the ground and
yellow below the ground where it connects to the yellow rhizome. The dark green
toothed leaves contain 5 to 7 lobes. Its small greenish-white flowers are erect
and terminal with no petals but numerous stamens. Fruit appears similar to the
Raspberry but it is not edible.



Goldenseal is essentially a healing herb and does not have any culinary usage.
The rhizome and roots of this herb is used for several herbal medications. This
herb is believed to have several medicinal properties including hepatic, alterative,
anti-catarrhal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, laxative, emmenagogue, and
oxytocic.

Goldenseal has been traditionally used to treat skin disorders, digestive
problems, liver conditions, diarrhea, wounds, sore and inflamed gums, ulcers and
eye irritations. Herbal tea made using this herb is said to help in sore throats.
Goldenseal tincture can be used as a mouthwash or gargle for inflamed gums
and mouth ulcers. The herb is used as an expectorant and stimulates the
secretion and flow of bile. Goldenseal is also used in topical anti-microbial
ointments to cure skin irritations, wounds and rashes.