The Herb Stop Blog
Good Herbal Choices In May
Now that we have cleaned, scrubbed and organized our homes (see Good Herbal Choices in April) we feel like kicking up our heels, wanting to go outside. For gardeners, May is the month when planting begins. For others, it is a time to take out the convertibles or motorcycles. Some folks like to go for picnics, take walks in the woods or by the seashore. To make all those outdoor activities most enjoyable our herbal friends lend their support.
Allergies
Nettles have been used for hundreds of years as a food as well as a medicine to treat rheumatism, arthritis, eczema, gout and anemia. The center for integrative medicine at the University of Maryland confirms that nettles may also be effective for treating certain individuals with hay fever. The stinging hairs on nettle are sharp polished spines that contain histamine and formic acid that act as an antihistamine when taken internally. Nettles have no known side effects, unlike many over-the-counter antihistamine preparations.
Dry Skin
Protect your skin from sun and wind with natural skincare products, such as Softening Olive lotion and cream to protect, soften and nourish your skin. Love My Face is a fine oil/serum which contains nourishing precious oils and essential oils, such as damask rose, neroli, myrrh, etc. to revitalize dry and weathered skin. Dry Skin Formula is for super dry skin, enhancing moisture in the skin. To keep your skin hydrated throughout the day spray Sea Mineral Toner on your face and hair.
Insects
Catnip essential oil is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the compound used in most commercial insect repellents, researchers have found at Iowa State University. Catnip essential oil is better than citronella, as the lather attracts bears! A Search and Rescue Team member told me he only uses catnip essential oil. He is pleased with the results and the fact that it is non-toxic. To keep your summer bug-free all you need to do is add 25 drops of catnip essential oil to 4 oz of water. Spray it on you or add it to your lotions, body mists, shampoo, conditioner, or bathwater. This essential oil is totally non-toxic, and completely safe, even for children. The Herb Stop Bug Spray has a beautiful scent, keeps you cool and relaxed, and is known to be an effective insect repellent.
Got Stung, Now What?
I’ve found that lavender essential oil applied “neat” (undiluted) works extremely well. Lavender essential oil has the capability of neutralizing poisons, containing antiseptic and pain-relieving properties. It is exceptionally effective for stings/bites from mosquitoes, spiders, scorpions, poisonous fish, and all other known and unknown poisonous critters. As soon as you notice you have been stung or bitten apply lavender essential oil directly to the site of the sting. You can re-apply the lavender every minute, or you can simply place a few drops on a clean cotton ball and leave it on the affected area. For bee and wasp stings, make sure to remove the stinger first before applying lavender essential oil. Sting Stop was blended with all pokes, bites, stings and small cuts in mind. Remember to gently pull the stinger out (if applicable) before applying Sting Stop to your boo-boos. Make sure to shake very well before applying.
Thirst Quenchers
Besides being incredibly delicious, Rooibos teas are refreshing and excellent body and skin hydrators. Another delicious tea is the Herb Stop Cooling Tea, refreshing and thirst quenching. Make herbal cool aide for kids and adults. They will love it and will keep them cool. Mix equal parts of rosehips, mint, and linden, sweeten lightly. You may add a little lemon juice or, on special occasion, add sparkling water or lemon-lime soda to taste.
Scent For May
This is an easy to make and very effective personal insect repellent spray. In addition, this blend hydrates and cools the skin.
- Distilled water 4 oz
- Lavender 5 drops
- Peppermint 5 drops
- Catnip 5 drops
Blend together and spray exposed skin areas as often as needed (avoid the area around the eyes).
Lavender is famous for its relaxing properties, used for nervous tension, depression, headaches, insomnia, impatience and irritability. Soothes sunburns too! Peppermint is cooling, refreshing and stimulating. Catnip has mild sedative properties useful for cramps and upset stomach.
May 21st – June 21st Birthday People
If your birthday falls between May 21st and June 21st your astrological sign is Gemini. Gemini people have a tendency to have problems with their arms and shoulders, respiratory and nervous system, including the brain. Herbs and foods for Gemini are calming nervines and respiratory tonics: almond, aspen, brazil nut, caraway, celery, dill, elecampane, fennel, flax, horehound, lavender, lemon verbena, marjoram, pomegranate, summer savory. The Herb Stop Gemini tea is a tea blend created just for Geminis, carefully designed by Leilah and Natalie, to encourage digestion and awaken personal power of the assertive Gemini.
AZ Rim Country Tree Mix
Do you suffer from seasonal allergies, especially to juniper, pine and oak? We have received many testimonials confirming a high success rate with AZ Rim Country Tree Mix. These homeopathic style drops have shown to relieve allergy symptoms, such as watery eyes, runny nose and itchy feeling.
Written By Leilah