It’s ideal to use 1 herb at a time, especially at first. Try one, see how you feel, and then determine if you want to attempt to mix herbs. Taste-wise they tend to be better on their own. Mixing them doesn’t always taste too good! You can rotate through them easily though- just make a few quarts of your favorite each week and enjoy 2-4 cups a day.

When first starting out add only one herb at a time. Wait two weeks and add another herb. Slow and steady wins the race.

2) Use flannel or cotton-wool blend fabrics.

3) Easy to use and care for Castor oil packs can be purchased online.

4) Castor oil can stain fabrics so use old clothing in case of compress leaking.

5) A castor oil pack can be reused up to 7 times. Just reactivate by adding a dab of fresh oil. Store in a glass sealed jar between uses.

6) Castor oil packs can be applied over night while sleeping.

7) Castor oil can be used in and on the eyes.

Note. You can get sick doing castor oil if you do not start off slow. Work your way up to overnight. Start at maybe 30min to 1 hour increments.

 More about chickweed can be found here. https://www.sassyholistics.com/chickweed-health-benefits/

• Comfrey is one of the few herbs that should be avoided while pregnant or nursing.

• Comfrey is packed with zinc, B12, protein, beta carotene, tannins, trace minerals and more.

Learn more about comfrey leaf uses and about other plants for infusions here. http://nourishingherbalinfusions.com/Comfrey.html

For sinus infections and colds:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of goldenseal powder with warm distilled water in a neti pot or nasal spray bottle. Use up to 2x a day.

• Watch this video on how to use a neti pot or nasal pray bottle to irrigate your sinuses. https://youtu.be/IpTVVwEny30?si=t_ygxM-ttMg-4W-I

For a mouthwash or rinse. Recipe. Other herbs are recommended to be added with it:

1. Boil two cups of water on the stovetop.

2. Add a good-size pinch of goldenseal, thyme, sage, and calendula to the mesh infusion basket in your teapot

3. Pour water that has just been removed from heat into the teapot as well.

4. Let infuse for about 5-7 minutes.

5. Pour infused liquid into mason jars and let cool to room temperature without the lids on.

6. Add 5-10 drops of peppermint essential oil and tea tree essential oil and stir.

7. Swish around mouth 2-4 times a day when infection is present or once daily for overall oral health.

You can also use it like a snuff and inhale it. Do not do this more than 2x daily upon inital use for 2-3 days. Only use once day after.

Additional goldenseal uses:

• Contains Berberine which can fight cancer

• Natural antibiotic and immune system booster

• Can improve digestive issues

• Can improve eye and mouth problems

• Improves heart health

1. Remove the fresh or dried herbs off of the stalks. If using freshly dug roots, wash and scrub them of dirt.

2. Chop fresh herbs and grind dried herbs to increase the surface area for the maceration. Place herbs into a clean, dry jar with a wide mouth.

3. Pour high proof alcohol (vodka or brandy) over the herbs until the alcohol level is an inch above the top of the herbs. Dry herbs may absorb the liquid, so check and add alcohol as needed.

4. Cover tightly with a lid and place the jar in a dark cupboard and allow to soak or macerate for 4-6 weeks.

5. During this time period, give the jar a shake every 2-3 days. Keep an eye on the alcohol level to ensure all your herbs are still covered.

6. Once macerating is complete, layer cheesecloth a few times over top of a clean bowl and secure with rubber band if possible.

7. Strain the mixture through the cheesecloth and with clean hands, gather the cloth up and squeeze strongly so every bit of possible liquid is drained from the herbs.

8. Allow material to settle overnight and strain again, or decant, through a smaller filter such as filter paper or a thin wire screen.

9. Use a funnel to transfer into labeled, amber bottles and store out of the light.

A healing salve is an oil-based medicine, generally used topically.  A carrier oil is infused with herbs, resins or other medicinal compounds and then it’s thickened with a bit of wax (usually beeswax) for easier application.

Chapstick is one example, as many commercial chapsticks are simply herbal salves poured into an easy-to-apply tube.  Some even come in tins, as they did long before inexpensive plastics became available.

Commonly used oils

• Olive Oil

• Grapeseed Oil

• Almond Oil

• Jojoba Oil

• Coconut Oil

MATERIALS

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

• 1 1/2 cups carrier oil (olive, almond, grapeseed, etc)

• 1/2 to 1 cup dried herbs

HEALING SALVE

• 1 cup (8 Ounces) Herbal Infused Oil

• 1 ounce (or 1 heaping tablespoon) Beeswax Pistils

TOOLS

• Pint Mason Jar

• Fine Mesh Strainer

• Double Boiler

• (or saucepan & heatproof bowl)

• Salve Tins

• (or other containers)

INSTRUCTIONS

HERB INFUSED OIL

1. Add dried herbal material to a pint mason jar. Cover completely with about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups of oil.

2. Allow the oil to infuse at room temperature for 3 to 6 weeks before straining through a fine-mesh strainer. (Note: Some of the oil will absorb into the herbal material, so starting with slightly more than 1 cup of oil should yield about 1 cup for making a herbal salve.)

HERBAL HEALING SALVE

1. Measure about 1 cup of herb infused oil. Place it in a heat proof bowl (or double boiler). Add about 1 inch of water to a small saucepan and then place the bowl over the water. Turn the heat on low and gently heat the oil.

2. Add in about 1 ounce of beeswax pistils (roughly 1 heaping tablespoon). Stir gently until melted.

3. Remove the oil/wax mixture from the heat and pour it into containers.

4. Allow the salve to cool to room temperature and reach a semi-solid state before using it.

2. Use Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

3. Drink Fluoride-Free Tea And Coffee. Avoid prepackaged teas.

4. Avoid Using Teflon Coated Cookware (Non-Stick)

5. Try To Avoid Medication Containing Fluoride

6. Go To Fluoride-Free Dentists

Valerian root helps calm the nervous system when it is overactive. It can do this by affecting levels of neurotransmitters involved in rest and sleep. For example, it increases the amount of a certain neurotransmitter called GABA, which has calming properties. That is likely why people find it helpful for battling anxiety and restless sleep.

How it is used: You can take valerian root as a supplement or else drink it as a tea. It is best used before bedtime, as it has sedative-like effects. Tincture form is best.

• Tea: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoonful (2 to 3 grams) of dried root, steep 5 to 10 minutes.

• Tincture (1:5): 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoon (4 to 6 mL)

• Fluid extract (1:1): 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (1 to 2 mL)

• Dry powdered extract (4:1): 250 to 600 milligrams

Additionally it may fight breast cancer, and lower blood pressure.

Although valerian root is generally regarded as safe, side effects such as headache, dizziness or stomach problems can occur. Sometimes people may have a reaction to valerian that’s the opposite of what they were aiming for — feeling anxious and restless instead of calm and sleepy. Valerian can also interfere with some prescription medications, and it may interact with or increase the effects of other natural supplements, like St. John's wort, Kava, and melatonin.

Common Side Effects that can be felt from lemon balm may be: Headache

• Nausea

• Bloating

• Gas

• Vomiting

• Indigestion

• Dizziness

• Stomach pain

• Anxiety

• Agitation

Should not be used if you have low thyroid hormones with conditions like Grave's Disease, use antiretroviral prescriptions. Ivermectin does not fall into this category regardless of what a doctor tells you.

How to use: Herbal tea infusion, or in a salve or balm.

Modern life is full of stress triggers. And that stress contributes to physical and mental illness. During stressful moments, the cortisol levels in your body become elevated, and this causes your heart to pump harder and faster. You breathe rapidly and your body generates more glucose for a quick burst of energy. Your mind becomes hyper-focused on any threats, and your body goes into fight or flight mode. When the stressful event is over, cortisol levels normalize and the associated symptoms resolve.

Can also help reduce cancer risk, and can aid in anti-aging.

How to use: Best taken in powder form in a capsule, loose, or in a tincture. 500 mg twice a day is the max dosage.

Possible side effects:

• Diarrhea.

• Vomiting and nausea.

• Also not good for hyperactive thyroid issues.

Best taken in a capsule.

Common side effects of rhodiola reported in some studies include the following:

• Nervousness

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Stomach upset

  Should not be used if you have bio-polar with mania, high anxiety, or take stimulant prescriptions.

Previous studies of rhodiola have reported long-term supplementation of up to 680 mg is safe and tolerable.

 Like some of the other herbs on this list, passionflower regulates the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA. That is likely why people report feeling more relaxed and calm with this herb, and why it may help with conditions such as insomnia.

It’s common to see passion flower combined with other calming herbs, such as valerian root, lemon balm, chamomile, hops, kava and skullcap.

Additionally passion flower can help with menopause symptoms, lower blood pressure, and help address ADHD symptoms, lower insulin levels, reduce cancer risk, and treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Can help control coughing.

Side effects: If you experience nausea, vomiting, drowsiness or any other odd symptoms, even if after a few days, please seek the help of a physician. Do not take if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have medical problems.

Dosage: up to 1,000mg daily for max dosage. Best taken in capsule or a tincture.

Ginkgo likely works by altering levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, and also by lowering inflammation in the nervous system. This makes it really helpful for boosting nervous system function and preventing deterioration and damage.

Dosage: A 2020 mini-review of studies on ginkgo biloba found that taking at least 240 milligrams (mg) of the leaf extract daily for more than 24 weeks may improve cognitive function in people with mild dementia. Shorter-term use with lower doses did not show significant benefits.¹

It can also be drank in an herbal infusion tea.

Side Effects of Ginkgo Biloba

Although consuming moderate amounts of ginkgo biloba seems to be safe for most people, there are some potential side effects to be aware of, including:

• Headache

• Upset stomach

• Dizziness

• Palpitations

• Constipation

• Allergic reactions

There are no official recommendations on how much ginkgo biloba a person should take. However, most studies have used daily doses of 60 to 240 mg, often divided into smaller doses throughout the day without significant side effects.

It can be drank in an herbal infusion tea or taken by capsule or tablet.

According to a review published in 2010, preliminary research suggests that turmeric may boost brain health and stave off Alzheimer's disease by clearing the brain of beta-amyloid (a protein fragment). The buildup of beta-amyloid is known to form Alzheimer's-related brain plaques. In addition, turmeric may shield brain health by inhibiting the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.²

Researchers thought that the reduction in brain inflammation and curcumin’s antioxidant properties led to less decline in neurocognition, which is the ability to think and reason. It can also help fight cancer, detox free radicals, low risk of heart disease, fight depression, and lower pain levels.

Dosage: While doctors commonly recommend taking 500 milligrams twice daily with food, the dose that’s right for you depends on your overall health. More isn’t always better, so talk to your doctor. It’s safe to take up to 8 grams per day maximum. It can be taken in an herbal infusion tea, in a tincture, or by capsule. Obviously, it can be used traditionally as a spice in food dishes.

According to a review published in 2018, scientists have observed that ginsenosides may help reduce brain levels of beta-amyloid in preliminary lab studies.

One meta-analysis found that supplementing ginseng did not lower hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Ginseng did improve fasting glucose and postprandial insulin but not postprandial glucose and fasting insulin. It can also lower LDL-cholesterol.

To lower inflammation: A systematic review of the effects of ginseng on inflammatory markers found that ginseng may lower interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (alpha TNF-α) but not C-reactive protein (CRP).¹

Possible side effects:

• Headaches

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Blood pressure changes

• Mastalgia (breast pain)

• Vaginal bleeding²

Dosage: 500–2,000 mg per day if taken from the dry root. When taken in capsules, dosages can range from 100–600 mg per day in divided doses.³

Another randomized, double-blinded controlled study compared cineole against a herbal formula (that included 5 different ingredients) in individuals with viral rhinosinusitis. One hundred and fifty patients (75 patients in each treatment group) were given either 600mg of cineole daily or the herbal combination formula, which consisted of 12mg Gentianae radix, 36mg Primulae Xos cum calycibus, 36mg Ramicis herba, 36mg Sambuci Xos, and 36mg Verbenae herba. The researchers discovered that the cineole group was more effective in treating viral rhinosinusitis.

Possible side effects

Severe allergic reaction: A severe allergic reaction is a serious side effect possible with any medication or natural product. If you're having a severe allergic reaction, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash. It may also drop blood pressure in some patients.

• Seizures: Large amounts of eucalyptus oil taken by mouth may increase your risk of seizures.

• Slow breathing rate: Too much eucalyptus oil by mouth may dangerously slow your breathing rate, increasing the risk of death.

• Slowing effects on the central nervous system (CNS): The CNS includes your brain and spinal cord. Taking excessive eucalyptus oil by mouth may slow down the activity of your CNS, and this will likely worsen eucalyptus oil's other side effects, such as a slow breathing rate.

Tea tree has strong antimicrobial properties and these properties are carried over into manuka honey. Thus, manuka has potent antibacterial activity, which is attributed to its high concentration of methylglyoxal, hyperosmolarity, hydrogen peroxide, and low pH.

On lab-based study discovered that manuka honey has bactericidal activity against biofilms formed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. It’s antibacterial effects were found to be higher than commonly used antibiotics. It’s thought that these antibacterial properties may have implications for treating chronic rhinosinusitis.

A clinical trial looked at the impact of manuka honey in individuals with allergic fungal sinusitis. In this study, 34 patients were topically treated with manuka honey in one nostril daily for 30 days. The participants reported improvements in sinus health at the end of the study.

Additionally it can help soothe sore throats and coughs. The honey can help with inflammation and fight against the bacteria that cause pain. Research shows that those who use manuka honey have a decrease in Streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria that causes sore throats.

Dosage: There is no maximum dosage. it can be taken plain by spoon or stirred into a hot beverage.

In test tube studies, yarrow’s active ingredients have been shown to work as antibiotics, antioxidants, antiproliferatives (slowing cell growth), and more.¹

These properties make yarrow a supplement of interest for almost everything from multiple sclerosis to cancer.

Dosage: There's no established standard dosing for yarrow, although daily dosing of up to 500 mg has been used safely for up to a year in one human study

• Active ingredient(s): phenols, flavonoids, sesquiterpenoids²

• Alternate name(s): Achillea millefolium, devil’s nettle, old man’s pepper, woundwort

• Legal status: Over-the-counter herbal supplement

• Suggested dose: Depends on the condition

• Safety considerations: Contraindicated (use is discouraged) in pregnancy; ³ no data available in children

• While data in humans are lacking, some people also use yarrow for:

  • Bacterial infections⁴

  • Respiratory viruses like COVID-19⁵

  Additionally it can:

  • help regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes

  • treat anxiety

  • Protecting the liver and gallbladder

  • prevent Cancer

  • clear up Chemotherapy-related toxicities

  • be used for cosmetics

  Severe Side Effects:

  In one case report, a woman who consumed five cups a day of yarrow tea for one week went to the emergency room complaining of blurry vision, dry mouth, fatigue, and heart palpitations.

  These symptoms are consistent with anticholinergic toxicity (a harmful effect caused by halting the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine), which can cause hallucinations, seizures, or coma in severe cases. 

  Importantly, there is no data to confirm that yarrow has anticholinergic effects. However, if you experience these or any other symptoms after taking this supplement, head to the emergency room to be safe. Allergies:

  If you're allergic to plants that are members of the Asteraceae/Compositae family, you may also be allergic to yarrow. Other plants in the family include:

  • Chrysanthemums

  • Daisies

  • Marigolds

  • Ragweed

• Common Side Effects:

  Yarrow is generally considered safe to use medicinally, but possible side effects may include:

  • Skin irritation when used topically: Sesquiterpenes (a type of metabolite) in yarrow may cause contact dermatitis or skin rash.

  • Increased urination: Yarrow can have a diuretic effect

    
    

    
    

    
    

*Important note about cinnamon:

There are two major types of cinnamon for culinary use: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, whereas cassia cinnamon is native to Burma and also grown in China and Vietnam. Ceylon cinnamon is often referred to as "True cinnamon."

You are more likely to find Cassia cinnamon in the United States and Canada which is less expensive. While both Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, Ceylon cinnamon is preferable.

You can get more information about this subject (including how to distinguish between the two types) in the article on how to use cinnamon as a medicine.

How to Tell the Difference Between Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon has a sweeter and more delicate flavor whereas cassia cinnamon is slightly darker in color and has a stronger flavor. The problem is that there is no way to distinguish between Ceylon cinnamon and cassia powders. So when you purchase cinnamon powder, try to find on the product label the source of the cinnamon or call the customer service or manufacturer to find this information.

If you buy a cinnamon stick, Ceylon cinnamon has a different appearance than cassia stick. The bark of Ceylon cinnamon is thinner and the stick will show multiple layers of a thinner bark. Cassia stick, on the other hand, is thicker, comes in one piece and doesn’t show multiple layers of any kind.

Cinnamon Nutrition

Cinnamon is so good for your overall health because it contains many antioxidants and is low in calories. One teaspoon (2.6 g) of ground cinnamon contains just 6 calories and about 1.4 grams of fiber.

Cinnamon Contains Antioxidants and Strengthens Your Immune System

Starting your day with a delicious cup of cinnamon tea is good to boost your immunity because cinnamon contains a lot of antioxidants.

Scientists have found that cinnamon is one of the spices with the highest number of antioxidants. Cinnamon extracts contain phenolic compounds that have a potent antioxidant activity. Cinnamon also affects immune responses in the body and helps to improve the body’s natural defenses against microorganisms.

Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon are one of the most important anti-inflammatory foods. Cinnamon extracts contain cinnamaldehyde which can help treat age-related inflammatory conditions. A study from 2017 found that cinnamon bark essential oil can help reduce inflammation on human skin. Cinnamon oil helped to boost the number of cells that allow the skin to recover from injury.

Cinnamon is Good for a Helping to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease Consuming cinnamon tea every day is a good way to boost your cardio health and help prevent heart disease.

Using cinnamon bark powder for its medicinal purposes can improve cardiovascular health. A review of Indian spices found that cinnamon boosts heart health by stimulating circulation, reducing total cholesterol, and lowering fasting glucose levels.

Cinnamon Increases Antioxidants That Help Protect Your Brain Health

You can use cinnamon sticks to make an antioxidant-rich cinnamon tea that helps boost cognitive function.

Ceylon cinnamon tea has proven to help reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists found that “true cinnamon” extracts help inhibit proteins in the brain which are associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Cinnamon Can Assist in Managing Autoimmune Disorders

Regularly taking cinnamon tea or increasing the amount of cinnamon in your diet is good to help manage the symptoms of certain autoimmune conditions.

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are toxins that cause inflammation and can result in autoimmune diseases. Scientists found that oral supplementation of cinnamon water extracts on mice helped to lower levels of LPS. This had an anti-inflammatory effect in the body.

There is also research to suggest that compounds in Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon have a neuro-protective effect on the central nervous system. Scientists have revealed that certain cinnamon extracts could play a role in treating multiple sclerosis.

Cinnamon Has Anticancer Properties

Cinnamon powder tea contains many compounds such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that have anticancer potential.

Herbs and Spices in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Cinnamon has many cancer-fighting properties. Cinnamon extracts can help to reduce the effects of oxidative stress that can lead to cell DNA damage and cancer. Cinnamon bark extracts can help protect the gastrointestinal lining from various cancers. Other laboratory trials have found that polyphenols from cinnamon can inhibit the spread of cancer cells.

How to Make Cinnamon Tea

To get the many health benefits of cinnamon, you can put a 3-inch long piece of Ceylon cinnamon stick in a pan of water. Bring the water to the boil, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes. Take off the heat and leave to stand for 20 minutes.

Your delicious cinnamon tea is now ready to drink. Pour the tea into another cup, add a teaspoon of raw honey, and enjoy all the health benefits of cinnamon tea.

Another option is to mix 1/2 tsp. cinnamon powder in a glass of hot water. Let it infuse for a few minutes and drink to enjoy the medicinal health benefits of cinnamon.

Some medical journals report that taking too much cinnamon can result in gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. If you are taking medication for blood pressure or diabetes, you should monitor your conditions closely if taking cinnamon tea for therapeutic purposes.

1) If you have high iron or ferritin in your blood you should avoid supplementing with vitamin C and iron.

2) If you are on blood thinners you should avoid NAC supplements and cinnamon, unless its Ceylon cinnamon.

*Important note about cinnamon:

There are two major types of cinnamon for culinary use: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, whereas cassia cinnamon is native to Burma and also grown in China and Vietnam.

You are more likely to find Cassia cinnamon in the United States and Canada which is less expensive. While both Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, Ceylon cinnamon is preferable.

You can get more information about this subject (including how to distinguish between the two types) in my article on how to use cinnamon as a medicine.

3) If you have diabetes, you might need to use less metformin or insulin when using things like berberine and burdock root. Always check your sugar levels when trying something new.

4) Many vaccine injury protocols recommend nattokinase. Nattokinase cannot be used by everyone. If you take it and think you are getting worse instead of better, stop its use immediately.

5) It is best to have a test done to see what you are lacking, like a hair follicle test. If you cannot afford one always add herbal supplements in one at a time. Wait 2-3 weeks to make sure it doesn't make you sick before you add another herbal item.

6) Learn how to spot the signs of an autoimmune disease and find out how what to do.

7) This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified functional medicine doctor, naturopathic doctor, or a certified herbalist.

• Hydrogen peroxide, a naturally occurring antibiotic that is found in all honey.

• Methylglyoxal (MG). A powerful antibiotic compound which is found in large quantities in Manuka honey.

• Manuka Honey – Precautions

  There are a few precautions with Manuka honey for treating various ailments and health conditions. Any kind of honey isn’t suitable for babies under 12 months of age because it is a known source of the bacteria spores that cause botulism. Also, if you have an allergic reaction to pollen, or other bee-related allergies, then honey can cause allergic reaction.

• What is Unique Manuka Factor (UMF)?

  The UMF signifies the antibacterial strength of Manuka honey and is directly related to the amount of MG in the honey, not hydrogen peroxide.

  In order to get the health benefits of Manuka honey, you should look for a UMF rating of at least 10+. However, for the best medicinal benefits, you should buy Manuka honey with a UMF of at least 16+.

  At this point it is worth noting that some honey is sold as Manuka honey, but only contains a little amount of MG. So, make sure when you buy Manuka honey that it has the UMF trademark on it with the UMF factor. Also, to be classed as Manuka honey, it has to come from New Zealand. ometimes you may see the term MGO used in place of UMF. The MGO rating also indicates the amount of Methylglyoxal in the honey. Therefore, the higher the MGO rating, then the more antibacterial properties are in the honey. An MGO rating of 100+ is the equivalent to UMF 5+ and MGO 550+ is the same as UMF 15+.

• 1. Manuka honey has strong antibacterial properties

  Honey has been used since ancient times as a topical treatment for wounds and other skin infections.

  Scientific research into the healing properties of Manuka honey has established that it certainly is a powerful antibacterial agent.

  For example, Manuka honey has been shown to have 100 times more MG than other conventional honeys and effective against 60 species of bacteria.

• 2. Manuka honey for MRSA infection

  Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bug, which is sometimes known as a hospital super bug. It has developed from the overuse of antibiotics and conventional antibacterial treatments are ineffective.

  Research published in The Journal of Applied Bacteriology showed that Manuka honey was able to inhibit the growth of the bacteria that causes the MRSA infection. In fact, when a higher concentration of Manuka honey was used, it was able to effectively treat the major wound-infecting types of bacteria.

  The MRSA bug highlights one problem facing the medical community; bacteria are becoming more and more resistant to antibiotics. Manuka honey can actually help antibiotics be more effective and can even reverse antibiotic resistance.

• 3. Manuka honey for strep throat

  Strep throat is an infection that manifests in a painful and inflamed throat. The cause of strep throat is bacteria known as Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus.

  It’s not just anecdotal evidence that point to the fact that Manuka honey can help soothe a sore throat, research has also shown that it can actually cure a sore throat as it can inhibit the bacteria causing a strep throat.

• 4. Wound, Burns, and Skin Ulcers

  Because of Manuka honey’s powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, it is excellent as a topical treatment for damaged skin and is one of the recommended treatments for minor burns.

  Diabetic wounds. Manuka honey can even help people who suffer from diabetic wounds. These wounds are usually much harder to heal because of how diabetes affects the body. Manuka honey may reduce the healing time and killed the infection in diabetic foot ulcers.

• 5. Manuka honey for Stomach Ulcers

  One of the causes of stomach ulcers is a certain type of bacteria known as H. Pylori. These bacteria are also responsible for other types of gastric problems. Research has shown that Manuka honey contains compounds which are effective against H. Pylori^.

  An imbalance of bacteria in the stomach and intestines and also having low stomach acid can cause various gastric problems like diarrhea, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. In some cases this is caused by a condition called Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) which is an increase in the number of bacteria, and/or changes in the types of bacteria present in the small bowel. One common factor in these gastric problems is the Clostridium difficile (C. diff), bacteria. Manuka honey may be effective at treating infections caused by C. diff bacteria. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

  Manuka honey a may reduce inflammation in the colon.

  Although no clinical trials have been carried out on Manuka honey and IBS, many people say that it has helped reduce their IBS symptoms.

• 6. Cancer

  Clinical trials have also shown that Manuka honey may have a positive effect in the treatment of various cancer tumors. The honey was effective in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and also proved to increase the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments.

• 7. Manuka honey for shingles

  Because Manuka honey is an effective antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory topical treatment for skin problems, it is also excellent for treating shingles.

  One study showed that both Manuka and clover honey, were able to treat the virus that causes shingles. For more information on that study, you can read the article on how to treat shingles with Manuka and clover honey.

  It is clear that Manuka honey has many health benefits when it comes to treating conditions that are caused by inflammation and bacterial infections.

• Learn about other kinds of honey here. https://www.liveeatlearn.com/types-of-honey/

• learn about bees consuming honey for healing infections and longevity here. https://greekreporter.com/2023/12/18/bees-eat-honey-healing-infections-longevity/

Part 1: Cinnamon is one of the top foods and spices that can control type 2 diabetes. Since most of us have cinnamon and honey readily available in the kitchen cupboard, the potential to protect our families from diabetes could be life-changing. If you are on blood thinners be sure to check the warning pinned post to the left of this section. You need to use Ceylon cinnamon instead.

Even though honey is high in carbohydrates, it has a moderate glycemic index and is healthier for diabetics than sugar. A study of the benefits for diabetic patients drinking honey water found that, when compared with dextrose or sucrose, honey was a healthier alternative. In diabetics, honey caused a lower increase in plasma glucose levels.

Another study has shown that consuming raw honey can have a beneficial effect on the blood lipids of diabetics. In an 8-week randomized clinical trial, diabetics who consume honey had lower cholesterol levels and reduced body weight. Make sure to check your blood sugars often if you are diabetic and using honey.

Honey also helps to control a number of the factors that have been linked to type 2 diabetes including insulin resistance and blood sugar levels.¹ It can help to regulate blood sugar levels, which is a crucial factor in controlling diabetes or preventing it and is more tolerable than most common sugars or sweeteners according to the International Journal of Biological Sciences.

Part 2: Cinnamon for allergies

Dust mites are one of the greatest sources of allergies in your home and getting rid of these annoying little critters often includes chemicals that are sometimes more dangerous than the critters themselves.

Dust mites have been found to be responsible for dermatitis, asthma, rhinitis, and they have even been found to be responsible for some sudden infant death syndrome cases.

You can use cinnamon to get rid of dust mites! In a study published by the World Academy of Science, cinnamon was found to be effective at killing dust mites.⁴ Cinnamon bark oil and cinnamon leaf oil were two and a half times more effective at killing dust mites than benzyl benzoate (chemical used to treat lice and scabies infestations),⁵ and cinnamon oil is far less toxic than most of the other chemicals used for dust mites.

Cinnamon bark oil has many health benefits and you can easily make it at home – just follow my instructions in the article about the best health benefits of cinnamon bark oil.

A teaspoon of raw honey can help to boost your immune system. Honey and cinnamon can therefore help you fight allergies from the inside and from the outside.

Part 3: Honey and Cinnamon for the Common Cold

As mentioned above, both honey and cinnamon offer powerful antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Cinnamon and honey also contain an abundance of antioxidants that protect you from free radical damage.

Honey is a natural cough suppressant for children and adults. Honey is also one of the ingredients in my DIY syrup recipe to relieve cough and sore throat.

Honey contains other vitamins and minerals that can help to boost the immune system and treat flu.

Honey and cinnamon tea for cold and flu

To take advantage of the healing properties of cinnamon and honey for colds and flu, prepare a tea using these ingredients (as mentioned previously, don’t add honey to boiling water to prevent nutrient loss). For children, a teaspoon before bedtime can help children and their parents get a good night’s rest.

Part 4: Honey and Cinnamon for UTI

he Iran Journal of Medical Sciences published a study that evaluated 28 plant extracts against Gram-negative such as E. coli (the main cause of urinary tract infections). Cinnamon was ranked in the top 4 most potent.

Preventing urinary tract infections by taking cinnamon supplements could decrease pain and reduce antibiotic use. You can also combine it with a moderate consumption of Manuka honey which has powerful antibacterial properties.

For other natural ways to treat UTI read my post on how to naturally treat UTI.

Part 5: Honey and Cinnamon for Digestive Issues

Honey and cinnamon have always been popular in managing digestive issues such as constipation, nausea, and ulcers. Because honey is predigested nectar, it is easy for the body to break it down, which can soothe an aggravated system.

Cinnamon, has antimicrobial characteristics that can help people with bacterial overload in their digestive system; especially with people suffering from an E. coli infection as you just read in the study out of Iran. Cinnamon is also one of the edible herbs that are thought to help control H. Pylori bacteria (which can cause peptic ulcers).

Part 6: Honey and Cinnamon to Treat Gingivitis

Honey has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Researchers from the School of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand discovered that chewing/sucking on a Manuka honey product not only caused a 35% decrease in plaque, it led to a 35% reduction in bleeding sites in people suffering from gingivitis!

You can combine it with the powerful antimicrobial cinnamon and regular use of the amazing mixture can do wonders to your smile! Honey and cinnamon benefits are proving to be a winning combination.

Part 7: Cinnamon to Prevent Clogged Arteries

According to a study published in the Journal of Diabetes Technology Society 2010, cinnamon oil could reduce harmful triglycerides in the blood by 30% and LDL or bad cholesterol by 27%. The build-up of fatty triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood and arteries is considered to be one of the causes of cardiovascular disease. You can also reduce your risk of developing heart disease by consuming a certain natural ingredient or by consuming my recommended foods for healthy heart.

Part 8: Honey and Cinnamon for Increased Energy

Chinese folk medicine has used cinnamon to promote a healthy flow vital energy for centuries, and because of its insulin-boosting property, cinnamon has been known to give people energy as it stabilizes your blood sugar.

Honey is composed of a unique carbohydrate composition of natural sugars and trace amounts of antioxidants, enzymes, minerals, vitamins and amino acids, making it a natural energy-filled afternoon snack.

*Important note about cinnamon:

There are two major types of cinnamon for culinary use: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, whereas cassia cinnamon is native to Burma and also grown in China and Vietnam.

You are more likely to find Cassia cinnamon in the United States and Canada which is less expensive. While both Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, Ceylon cinnamon is preferable.

You can get more information about this subject (including how to distinguish between the two types) in my article on how to use cinnamon as a medicine.

*Important note about cinnamon:

There are two major types of cinnamon for culinary use: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, whereas cassia cinnamon is native to Burma and also grown in China and Vietnam. Ceylon cinnamon is often referred to as "True cinnamon."

You are more likely to find Cassia cinnamon in the United States and Canada which is less expensive. While both Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon are derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, Ceylon cinnamon is preferable.

You can get more information about this subject (including how to distinguish between the two types) in the article on how to use cinnamon as a medicine.

How to Tell the Difference Between Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon has a sweeter and more delicate flavor whereas cassia cinnamon is slightly darker in color and has a stronger flavor. The problem is that there is no way to distinguish between Ceylon cinnamon and cassia powders. So when you purchase cinnamon powder, try to find on the product label the source of the cinnamon or call the customer service or manufacturer to find this information.

If you buy a cinnamon stick, Ceylon cinnamon has a different appearance than cassia stick. The bark of Ceylon cinnamon is thinner and the stick will show multiple layers of a thinner bark. Cassia stick, on the other hand, is thicker, comes in one piece and doesn’t show multiple layers of any kind.

Cinnamon Nutrition

Cinnamon is so good for your overall health because it contains many antioxidants and is low in calories. One teaspoon (2.6 g) of ground cinnamon contains just 6 calories and about 1.4 grams of fiber.

Cinnamon Contains Antioxidants and Strengthens Your Immune System

Starting your day with a delicious cup of cinnamon tea is good to boost your immunity because cinnamon contains a lot of antioxidants.

Scientists have found that cinnamon is one of the spices with the highest number of antioxidants. Cinnamon extracts contain phenolic compounds that have a potent antioxidant activity. Cinnamon also affects immune responses in the body and helps to improve the body’s natural defenses against microorganisms.

Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon are one of the most important anti-inflammatory foods. Cinnamon extracts contain cinnamaldehyde which can help treat age-related inflammatory conditions. A study from 2017 found that cinnamon bark essential oil can help reduce inflammation on human skin. Cinnamon oil helped to boost the number of cells that allow the skin to recover from injury.

Cinnamon is Good for a Helping to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease Consuming cinnamon tea every day is a good way to boost your cardio health and help prevent heart disease.

Using cinnamon bark powder for its medicinal purposes can improve cardiovascular health. A review of Indian spices found that cinnamon boosts heart health by stimulating circulation, reducing total cholesterol, and lowering fasting glucose levels.

Cinnamon Increases Antioxidants That Help Protect Your Brain Health

You can use cinnamon sticks to make an antioxidant-rich cinnamon tea that helps boost cognitive function.

Ceylon cinnamon tea has proven to help reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists found that “true cinnamon” extracts help inhibit proteins in the brain which are associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Cinnamon Can Assist in Managing Autoimmune Disorders

Regularly taking cinnamon tea or increasing the amount of cinnamon in your diet is good to help manage the symptoms of certain autoimmune conditions.

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are toxins that cause inflammation and can result in autoimmune diseases. Scientists found that oral supplementation of cinnamon water extracts on mice helped to lower levels of LPS. This had an anti-inflammatory effect in the body.

There is also research to suggest that compounds in Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon have a neuro-protective effect on the central nervous system. Scientists have revealed that certain cinnamon extracts could play a role in treating multiple sclerosis.

Cinnamon Has Anticancer Properties

Cinnamon powder tea contains many compounds such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that have anticancer potential.

Herbs and Spices in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Cinnamon has many cancer-fighting properties. Cinnamon extracts can help to reduce the effects of oxidative stress that can lead to cell DNA damage and cancer. Cinnamon bark extracts can help protect the gastrointestinal lining from various cancers. Other laboratory trials have found that polyphenols from cinnamon can inhibit the spread of cancer cells.

How to Make Cinnamon Tea

To get the many health benefits of cinnamon, you can put a 3-inch long piece of Ceylon cinnamon stick in a pan of water. Bring the water to the boil, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes. Take off the heat and leave to stand for 20 minutes.

Your delicious cinnamon tea is now ready to drink. Pour the tea into another cup, add a teaspoon of raw honey, and enjoy all the health benefits of cinnamon tea.

Another option is to mix 1/2 tsp. cinnamon powder in a glass of hot water. Let it infuse for a few minutes and drink to enjoy the medicinal health benefits of cinnamon.

Some medical journals report that taking too much cinnamon can result in gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. If you are taking medication for blood pressure or diabetes, you should monitor your conditions closely if taking cinnamon tea for therapeutic purposes.