The use of herbal medicine is one of the basics of human life.  It is conscious of the whole person, easy to use, gentle, safe and inexpensive.  While being a very viable alternative to the overuse of harsh pharmaceutical drugs, because the herbs do indeed act as natural medicine, it is extremely important to be very careful using them in conjunction with prescribed drugs since interactions could occur.

     Nature has blessed us with a bounty of  beautiful and medicinal plants, and these are some of my springtime favorites:

1. Alfalfa - "father of foods" - This plant reaches deepest into the soil, absorbing many minerals and trace minerals.  It contains chlorophyll and helps with oxygenation, acts as a blood purifier, and alkalizes and detoxifies the body.  It is good for arthritis, ulcers, asthma, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis.

2. Chamomile - This was Peter Rabbit's favorite herb.  His mother gave it to him after a stressful day in Mr. McGregor's garden.  It is a wonderful anti-spasmodic, especially for nervous stomachs, also good for anxiety.  It is anti-inflammatory and is an antihistamine.  If you suffer from hay fever you might be allergic to Chamomile.

3. Chickweed - Considered a nuisance by many gardeners, it is a source of many nutrients, and is used for respiratory problems such as bronchitis, coughs, colds and congestion.  It helps to liquify and remove mucous from the respiratory tract.  It works as an appetite suppressant and helps dissolve fat in the body.  Externally it is used for warts, pimples, cuts and other wounds.

4. Dandelion - Another nuisance of spring, this is one of the most powerful blood builders and purifiers.  It is a very effective liver cleanse, and helps with anemia and constipation.  The Native Americans ate the greens as salad to cleanse their lungs, blood, liver and kidneys.

5. Hyssop - The Bible tells us "Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean."  It expels mucous from all parts of the body, regulates high and low blood pressure, dispels gas, and is good for circulatory problems, gout and weight control.

6. Milk Thistle - A powerful liver cleanser and rejuvenator, it is beneficial for those suffering from hepatitis, cirrhosis, psoriasis and yeast infections.  It helps balance cholesterol, protects the kidneys, and is good for gall bladder and adrenal disorders.  It also has anti-cancer properties, especially for the prostate and breast.

   7. Mullein - The Native Americans used the large soft leaves of this plant inside their moccasins to cushion their feet - sort of the original Dr. Scholl's. They also would burn a piece of the stalk and inhale the vapors when having respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and throat irritations.  It acts on the central nervous system to clear phlegm out of the body.

 8. Nettle - One of the very best herbs for controlling seasonal allergies by increasing T-cells that affect allergic reaction, it is also good for expelling gravel and stones from any organ, particularly, the kidneys. It is an excellent diuretic, and cleanses the lungs of mucous.

9. Parsley - One of the overlooked nutritional powerhouses, it is the #1 natural breath freshener and internal deodorizer.  Also an excellent diuretic, it will move fluids, expel worms, relieve gas and aid digestion.  It helps kidneys, liver, lungs, stomach and thyroid and brings oxygen to the bloodstream.

10. Red clover - One of our best local blood purifiers, it helps to inhibit the formation of and to break up growths, cysts and tumors in the body.  It is used in many herbal cancer remedies and is excellent for all skin disorders.

11. Valerian - One of the finest natural muscle relaxers and tranquilizers, it helps lower high blood pressure, improves circulation, helps relieve anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, irritable bowel, muscle cramps, pain, spasms, and panic attacks that may occur at night.

 12. Yarrow - Used since the dawn of civilization, it has been found in Neanderthal caves 40,000 to 60,000 old.  It is good for blurred vision, strengthens the muscles around the eyes, and is a stomach tonic that increases bile production and supports digestion.  It is also good for the lungs and respiratory system by helping to dispel mucous, and is good for circulation, skin and sore throats.

     Because the herbs do work as gentle medications, I would not want to suggest overusing them, just like with any form of medicines.  I recommend taking these herbal medicines at the first sign of distress and discontinue when symptoms are relieved.

     Good luck using these 12 wonderful plants. Your good health is my happiness!

                                                  Love and Peace,