Tourmaline

Gemstone of the Day

 

Tourmaline

 

Causes the wearer to be more flexible, more understanding and more objective in purpose and reason. Calming. Each person has a different response to this stone. Causes a reaction in the intestinal tract. Black and Crystal- removes negativity and cleanses. Some say it should not be worn as jewelry. Electric and magnetic properties

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Balm

 

Herb of the Day

 

BALM

 

(Melissa officinalis)

To grow: Perennial herb. Grows to 2 ft. It’s leaves are heavily veined, light green leaves with a lemony scent. It’s white flowers are unimportant and need to be cut occasionally to keep compact. Spreads rapidly. Grow in rich, moist soil in sun or part shade. Balm is very hardy and you can propagate from seed or root divisions. Self sows.

Uses: Balm is an excellent carminative herb that relieves spasms in the digestive tract and is used in flatulent dyspepsia. The gently sedative oils relieve tension and stress reactions, therefore, acting to lighten depression. It has a tonic effect on the circulatory system and heart, thus lowering blood pressure. It can be used in feverish conditions such as flu.

Parts used: Dried aerial parts or fresh in season. Pick the leaves two or three times a year between early summer and early fall. Cut off the young shoots when they are approximately 12 in long. They should be dried in the shade at a temperature not more than 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 2-3 teaspoons of the dried herb or 4-6 fresh leaves and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes, well covered. Drink a cup in the morning and the evening or when needed.

Tincture: Take 2-6 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Marshmallow

Herb of the Day

MARSHMALLOW (Althaea officinalis)

 

To Grow:

No directions to grow.

 

Uses:

The root is used primarily for digestive problems, inflammations of the digestive tract and on the skin. The leaves are used for the lungs and urinary system. The leaf can also be used for bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, and irritating coughs. Externally, the root is indicated in varicose veins, ulcers, abscesses and boils.

 

Parts used:

Roots and leaves. Collect the leaves in summer after flowering and dig up the root in late fall. Clean the root of root fibers and cork and dry immediately.

 

Decoction:

Put 1 tsp. of chopped root into 1 cup of water and boil gently for 10-15 minutes. Drink three times a day.

 

Infusion:

Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1-2 tsp. of the dried leaves and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Drink three times a day.

Tincture:

Take 1-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

 

This herb can be used as a compress also.