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Corn Doll

Monday, January 30th, 2012

How to make a corn doll for your altar, this is the doll I made for Lughnasadh.

Next time you’re having corn for dinner, keep your husks. Be sure to dry them in the sun for one to three days. If you’re using dried-out husks, soak them for a couple of hours to soften. (There is no special preparation if using fresh husks).

Materials:

  • Corn husks (Available in grocery store)
  • Scissors
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Twine or string
  • Cotton Balls

Instructions:

Fold a husk in half, place two or three cotton balls in the middle. Twist the husk, tying it with string to make a head. There should be a bit of husk in the front and back, below the head, to create a torso.

Make a pair of arms for your doll. There are a couple of ways to do this. I decided to cut and husk in 3 pieces and braid, tying the ends to make hands. Slip the arms between the husks that form the torso, then add a cotton ball to plump the torso (insert a few pipe cleaners into torso to keep standing) tie off at the waist.

Arrange a few husks around the doll’s waist, (overlapping them) then tie in place with twine. After you’ve tied the waist, trim the hem of the skirt so it’s even. You can add a shawl (see 1st pic) and let the doll dry completely.

Once your doll has dried, you can leave her plain or give her a face and some hair. (use hair form husks or yarn)

Be creative and have fun with it! You can add clothing, an apron, bead-work, etc!

I hope this was helpful, feel free to email me with any questions.

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Oak

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

Oak

Botanical Name: Quercus Alba

Folk Names: Jove’s Nuts, Juglans (Latin)Duir, White Oak

The oak is revered as a sacred tree, to the Greeks, Romans, Celts, Slavs and Teutonic tribes it was associated with the supreme god in their pantheon. Also, sacred to Zeus, Jupiter, Dagda, Perun and Thor, each of these gods had dominion over rain, thunder and lightning. It is no coincidence that oak trees seem to be more prone to lightning strikes than other trees, whether it be because of the wood’s low electrical resistance or the fact that they are often the tallest in the landscape.

Today, many believe that the Yule log should be made from it. When it is but ashes, those are strewn on one’s land to bring good fortune and wealth in the coming year. Oak leaves’ connection with rainfall is also survived in more recent folklore in a rhyme about which tree’s leaves appeared first, such as the Irish saying:

If the oak before the ash,
Then we’ll only have a splash.
If the ash before the oak,
Then we’ll surely have a soak!


Photo by Tie Guy II

“A tree as long-lived and strong as the oak naturally offers magical protection.”

Deities: Cybele, Dagda, Dianus, Erato, Hecate, Heme, Janus, Jupiter, Pan, Rhea, Thor, Zeus

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Protection, Strength)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Jupiter (Money, Prosperity, Legal Matters, Luck, Protection)

Powers: Protection, Health, Money, Healing, Potency, Fertility, Luck

Magical Uses:
Decorate altars with leaves as early as Lammas and Samhain.

  • Acorns are beaded and worn for fertility
  • Carrying any piece of the oak draws good luck.
  • Plant an acorn in the dark of the Moon to receive money.
  • Carrying an acorn increases fertility and strengthens sexual potency.
  • If you can catch a falling oak leaf you shall have no colds all winter.
  • The bark may be gathered and dried, then ground and used as an incense to invoke or honor any of the deities associated with the it.
  • The oak’s association with Vesta and fire festivals lends itself to working with this herbal tree in conjunction with elemental fire.
  • When a person is sick, place oak wood in the fireplace to “draw off” the illness.
  • Make a charm from oak. Take two equal lengths of twig or of a small branch and bind them together in a cross. This represents keeping one’s self in balance with the four elements. It can also be hung in the house for protection.
  • Acorns may be adapted into amulets and tokens. (Highly appropriate for the Samhain celebration)
  • It is believed there is no wand as sacred as one made of oak.
  • Collect an acorn and empower it throughout the winter, then plant it before the snow melts so that the new tree will be one of magic and power.
  • Acorns placed in windows guard the entrance against lightning, and a piece of oak wood, carried, protects its bearer from all harm.
  • Oak is used to bring protection against the ferocity of the elements and the dangers of life, and we use oak to ask for divine assistance in having our needs met.

Ritual Uses:

  • Include oak in the fire for your Midsummer ritual.
  • The bark may be dried and powdered and used to unite one with the gods and goddesses.
  • The Druids (traditionally) would not meet for rituals unless an oak was present, and the very words “oak” and “Druid,” some say, are related. Religious idols were fashioned from oak wood, and Witches often danced beneath the tree.

Medicinal Uses: Native Americans used White oak medicinally, it was valued for its antiseptic and astringent properties and used in the treatment of many complaints. The inner bark contains 6 – 11% tannin, and can be boiled and the liquid drunk in the treatment diarrhoea, intermittent fevers, coughs and colds, consumption, asthma, lost voice etc. The bark has been chewed as a treatment for mouth sores. Externally, it is used as a wash for skin eruptions, burns, rashes, bruises, ulcers etc and as a vaginal douche. It has also been used as a wash for muscular pains. The bark is best collected in the spring.

References:

  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • umm.edu
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Chamomile Tea

Monday, January 23rd, 2012

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is one of the most widely used flowers and effective medicinal teas known. The gentle action of this herb makes it suitable for children and adults, and can be safely used on a regular basis. It is widely used for stomachaches, insomnia, sore throats, cramps and teething children. Matricaria recutita, or German chamomile contains the highest concentration of the essential oils responsible for giving chamomile its healing power. The medicinal use of chamomile dates back to the Romans, who relied on its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also said that the Egyptians dedicated Chamomile to their sun god and valued it over all other herbs for its healing qualities. Except for the small risk of allergy, Chamomile is one of the safest herbs to use.


Photo by Justin and Elise

Preparation of Tea:

  • In a teapot, place 1 tsp. of chamomile flowers per cup of water.
  • Boil the water, then let it cool slightly (using boiling water will cause the various therapeutic compounds in chamomile to evaporate).
  • For best results, steep the tea less than 5 min.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • The healing effect of chamomile is primarily due to the chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol in its essential oil.
  • Chamomile has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antibacterial effects.
  • It calm the nerves and induces sleep.
  • Chamomile tea can be used in healing compresses or added to bathwater.

For treatment of gastric problems:

  • The essential oils in chamomile combined with other ingredients, such as sulfur and calcium, help relieve gastrointestinal inflammation.
  • To ease pain and stimulate the digestion, drink 3 or 4 cups of freshly prepared tea daily for a period of several weeks.

For relief of intestinal cramps:

  • The flavonoids in chamomile tea can prevent gas and relieve cramps.
  • For menstrual cramps, a chamomile tincture is better because its flavonoid concentration is a third higher than that of the tea.

Medicinal Uses:

For eye problems:
A Chamomile tea compresses helps relieve eye pain, eye strain and eyelid inflammation.

  • Soak 2 cotton pads in lukewarm tea and place them on the eyes for a few minutes.

Warning: Strain the tea thoroughly to remove any pieces of chamomile flower.

For inflammation, restlessness and insomnia:
A chamomile tea bath provides quick relief from skin inflammations, restlessness and insomnia.

  • Add 1 qt. of chamomile tea to a bathtub full of warm water.
  • For insomnia, take the bath before bedtime.

For menstrual cramps:
A chamomile tincture can alleviate menstrual cramps.

  • Add 2/3 oz. of chamomile flowers to 1 ½ oz. of 100 proof alcohol and let it steep for 1 week.
  • Strain and store in a dark vial.
  • Take 10 drops in a glass of water.

For flu and cough:
The germicidal effect of a chamomile vapor helps destroy the germs that cause flu and alleviates coughing.

  • Pour 2 qt. of hot water over 2 cups of chamomile flowers.
  • Cover your head with a towel and inhale the vapors.

Warning: Do not use if you suffer from cardiovascular disease.

Healing Tea mixtures:

For gastric complaints:

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 2/3 oz peppermint
  • 1 oz. caraway seeds
  • 2/3 oz. angelica

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep the mixture 10 min and strain. This soothes the gastro intestinal tract and stimulates digestive activiy, making it useful for stomachaches or a too full feeling.

For Cystitis:

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 1 oz. yarrow
  • 1 oz. sage

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep the mixture 5 min and strain. The anti-inflammatory components relieve bladder pain and urinary discomfort. Drink as much as you wish daily until the inflammation has healed.

For skin problems

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 1 oz. dandelion
  • 2/3 oz. fennel

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep 5-10 min and strain. This medicinal tea blend stimulates metabolic activity, which helps promote the healing of inflammatory skin conditions, such as abscesses, boils and acne.

Warning: Chamomile has been known to cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed or other members of the daisy family.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Friday’s Food For Thought – Hash Brown Quiche

Friday, January 13th, 2012

Happy Friday!

I love this recipe, it gives quiche a whole new taste. Hubs does NOT like quiche, but fell in love with it. Enjoy, and let me know what you think if you get a chance to make it.

Hash Brown Quiche


Prep time: 34 minutes
Baking time: 25 to 30 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cup chopped cooked ham
  • 1 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation:

  • Preheat the oven to 425ºF.
  • Press hash browns between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Press onto bottom and sides of an 8-inch pie plate. Drizzle with butter. Bake for 25 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350ºF.
  • Combine ham, Cheddar and bell pepper in a medium bowl and mix well. Spoon into the hash brown crust.
  • Beat eggs in a small bowl. Add milk, salt and black pepper and mix well.
  • Pour egg mixture over ham mixture. Bake until set, about 25 to 30 minutes. (I like to broil it for about a minute when done)
  • Variation: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped onion to the ham mixture.

Tip: To double the recipe, use a 13 × 9-inch baking dish. Press the potatoes into the baking dish as directed, then mixed and baked the quiche according to the recipe. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.

Enjoy! Have a great weekend!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Wild Strawberry

Monday, January 9th, 2012

Wild Strawberry

Botanical Name: Fragaria Vesca

Native Americans used Wild Strawberries in tea for stomach ailments, jaundice and profuse menses, and the botanist Linnaeus is said to have used the wild berries to relive gout. Until recently the plant’s medicinal uses were forgotten. They are also used in love rituals. If a double strawberry is shared with someone, the two will fall in love. The Strawberries are a symbol for Venus, the Goddess of love.


Photo by dnhoshor

Plant fact: Native to North America, Wild Strawberries are a member of the rose family. They grow to about 8 inches high, and begin to develop in June. The berries are very fleshy with an outer skin that contains the plant’s actual fruits, the bard and tiny yellow seeds.

Parts used: The leaves, berries and roots are used for therapeutic purpose. (Keep dried plants parts protected from humidity)

Components:

  • The leaves and roots contain tannin. (which has an astringent action)
  • The leaves are composed of triterpene alcohols, flavonoids, citral (a lemony substance) and traces of essential oils.
  • The berries contain a great amount of vitamin C (60 milligrams per 100 grams fruit), as well as fruit acids and minerals-such as potassium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, calcium and iron.

Indications: Since the leaves provide an astringent action, they can be used to make a tea that reduces inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth. Fresh strawberries, on the other hand, soothe gastritis and are also helpful in curing anemia.

Methods of Administration:

Fresh root decoction:

  • Add 1 gram wild strawberry root parts to about ½ cup of cold water.
  • Heat, and allow to steep for about 30 min.
  • Drink 2 cup daily before meals for diarrhea relief.

Infusion for gargling:

  • Add about ¼ cup of chopped wild strawberry leaves to ½ cup boiling hot water.
  • Step for 30 min.
  • Rinse and gargle several times a day to reduce inflammation of oral mucous membranes.

Infusion:

  • Add about 1/8 oz, of chopped leaves to ½ cup boiling water
  • Steep for approximately 15 min.
  • Three to four cups daily will strengthen the blood.

Soothing bath:

  • Add 2 handful fresh or 1 cup of dried leaves to your bathwater.
  • You’ll find dried leaves at your local natural-food stores.

Poultice:

  • Apply crushed berries to sunburned areas-or other skin inflammations-and cover with a damps cloth.
  • Allow the poultice to work for 10-20 min
  • Gently wash off the berries with warm water.

Tip: The fresh or dried leaves infused in tea offers relief from diarrhea and other digestive upsets.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Friday’s Food For Thought – Chocolate Almond Yule Log

Friday, December 9th, 2011

Chocolate Almond Yule Log


Photo by apaloosa

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 6 large eggs, separated
  • 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar – divided use
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup ground almonds
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon almond or cherry-flavored liqueur, optional
  • Chocolate frosting (about 2 cups)
  • Sliced blanched almonds, optional
  • Cinnamon candies, optional
  • Sliced green glace cherries, optional
  • Confectioners’ sugar for dust (Powdered)

Preparation:

  • Lightly grease 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1-inch jelly roll pan. Line bottom with waxed paper, grease again. (Set aside)
  • In small saucepan, boil 1/2 cup sugar and water. Reduce heat, simmer 1 minute. (Set aside to cool)
  • In large mixing bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar at high speed until foamy. Add 1/3 cup of the sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating constantly until sugar is dissolved and whites are glossy and stand in soft peaks.
  • In small mixing bowl, beat egg yolks at high speed until thick and lemon-colored. (About 3 to 5 minutes) Gradually beat in remaining 1/3 cup of the sugar until blended. Beat in vanilla, almond extract and salt. In small bowl, stir together ground almonds and flour. Sprinkle over whites. Add beaten yolk mixture. Gently, but thoroughly, fold yolk mixture and almond mixture into whites. Spread evenly into prepared pan.
  • Bake in preheated 400°F oven until top springs back when lightly touched with finger. (About 10 to 12 minutes) Dust clean tea towel with confectioner’s sugar. With spatula, loosen cake from sides of pan and invert onto prepared towel. Carefully pull waxed paper off bottom of cake. Trim all edges with serrated knife.
  • Stir in liqueur, (If desired) into cooled, reserved sugar syrup. Spoon evenly over inside surface of hot cake. Starting from short edge, roll up cake, rolling towel with cake. Place wrapped roll seam-side down on wire rack until cool, (About 30 minutes)
  • Carefully unroll cake. Spread with about 1 cup chocolate frosting. Reroll. Place seam-side down on serving platter. Spread with about 1 cup additional frosting, using small spatula to create tree-bark effect.

DECORATE! You can find decorations at any baking supply store.

Tip: If prepared in advance, cake may be frozen without filling. (Make sure cake is cooled) Wrap well with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Thaw, wrapped cake stand at room temperature about 1 hour.

Enjoy! Have a Great Weekend!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Acupuncture

Monday, December 5th, 2011

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an alternative medicine in which fine needles are inserted in the skin at specific points along what are considered to be lines of energy (meridians) and is used in the treatment of various physical and mental conditions.

Acupuncture increases the immune response by balancing the flow of life energy throughout the body and alleviates pain. It is a complete system of healing and provides effective treatment for numerous conditions, from the common cold and flus to addiction and chronic fatigue syndrome. It is also effective as an adjunctive treatment for AIDS.

Uses:
A treatment for pain – 50-70 percent of patients receive temporary relief, however some experience long term relief.

  • Lower back pain
  • Headache and migraine
  • Joint pain
  • Dental pain
  • Insomnia
  • Fatigue
  • Post-operative pain
  • Post-operative nausea and vomiting
  • Allergies, including hay fever and eczema
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Menstrual cramps, carpal tunnel syndrome and fibromyalga
  • Chronic pain, including neck and back pain
  • Digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Infertility and menstrual disorders
  • Reduces nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, chemotherapy and anesthesia
    • Current research is being done to use acupuncture in easing withdrawal from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Another possibility is that acupuncture therapy may speed rehabilitation and limit damage after a paralyzing stroke.

Procedure for Treatment

Tiny needles are inserted at very specific points on the surface of the body. The treatments can vary, depending on the practitioner and style of acupuncture. There are several “schools”, including Chinese, Korean, Japanese and a Westernized version (based on neurology, not Oriented medical philosophy) called trigger-point therapy. Practitioners of Oriental- style acupuncture will usually perform a partial physical examination at the first visit (including extensive pulse-taking and, possibly, examination of the tongue and palpation of the abdomen). They maytake a very detailed medical history, including nutritional habits and other environmental factors. The actual insertion of the needles has been described as feeling like a mosquito bite. After insertion, the needles may be stimulated by twirling them or connecting them to a mild electrical current. This stimulation can cause a tingling or aching sensation referred to as de qi. The needles can be inserted from a fraction of an inch to about one inch deep. They may be withdrawn after a few seconds or kept in place for up to 30 minutes.

Treatment Time:

Allow 20 minutes to 1 hour per session. (The initial visit may take longer)

Treatment Frequency:

This can vary according to your problem. You may start with several treatments per week, then weekly treatments and taper to less often. The duration of therapy can range from a few treatments for acute, temporary problems to regularly scheduled treatments over several months for chronic conditions.

Benefits

Acupuncture has been practiced in China for several thousand years. According to ancient Chinese medical theory, the life force called qi (literal translation of “qi” is breath, air, or gas) flows through the body via 14 invisible channels (called meridians), regulating all physical and mental processes. Opposing forces within the body, called yin and yang, must be balanced to keep qi flowing properly. The meridians are said to run deep within the body’s tissues and organs, that transpire at some 360 places identified as acupuncture points. (also called acupoints) Certain meridians are correlate with specific organs. (such as the bladder or liver) The points all along these meridians, even in the hands or feet, are believed capable of affecting the associated internal organs. Stimulating these points is said to balance and restore the flow of qi. Western scientists proposed that acupuncture may trigger the release of natural pain-killing substances within the body called endorphins, thus reducing pain. It may also alter the body’s output of neurotransmitters (serotonin and norepinephrine) and of inflammation-causing substances such as prostaglandins.  Whatever the cause, the pain-relieving effects of acupuncture seem to have a delayed onset; the effects increase slowly and may become more evident after several treatments. They may diminish after acupuncture treatments are ended.

Who Should Avoid This Therapy?

People at risk of easy bruising or excessive bleeding (patients with clotting disorders and those taking a blood thinners) would be prudent to avoid acupuncture. (there is a slight risk of damage to blood vessels) Pregnant women should avoid needle insertion on or near the abdomen.

Side-effects

Acupuncture generally has no inherent side-effects. However, it is important to consult with a skilled and reputable practitioner. Careless application of the technique can present certain hazards. Hepatitis B and serious bacterial infection have been reported due to improperly sterilized needles. A problem that has been controlled by the widespread use of disposable needles. Improperly performed acupuncture can also cause bleeding (if a blood vessel is punctured) or injury to organs, nerves or tissue.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Friday’s Food For Thought – 4-Cheese Stuffed Shells

Friday, November 18th, 2011

4-Cheese Stuffed Shells


Photo by Sivodd

Prep time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 to 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon minced dried garlic
  • 1 1/2 cups chunky tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
  • Salt and black pepper

Preparation:

  • Cook pasta shells for 10 to 12 minutes, drain. Rinse with cool water, drain again. (Set aside) Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Combine ricotta, provolone, grated Parmesan, parsley, egg, basil and garlic in medium bowl. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Spread 1/2 cup tomato sauce evenly on bottom of 8-inch square baking pan. Place shells in baking pan and fill with ricotta mixture. Spread remaining 1 cup tomato sauce over shells. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Bake, covered for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until sauce becomes bubbly. (about 15 to 20 minutes)
  • Remove from oven and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Place back in oven until cheese is melted. (1 to 2 minutes)

With meat: In large skillet, brown hamburger while shells are boiling, add onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Drain and set aside.  (Put meat in shells first, spread extra in sauce around baking pan)

Enjoy! Have a Great Weekend!

Lisa

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Taking the week off…kind of

Sunday, October 23rd, 2011

Happy Sunday, I hope you all had a great weekend!

Just a quick note to let you know, I won’t be around much this week. I’m going to be busy playing catch up and gearing up for Samhain.

There will also be some changes made to the site. I’m interested in hearing from you, what would you like to see added or changed? Is there anyone interested in guest blogging? I would like to have a weekly/monthly blog from people of different paths of paganism, explaining what it is you believe, why and what it’s all about.

Keep a look out for upcoming GIVEAWAYS!

I will try to pop in and say hello when I get the chance. Have a great week!

Lisa

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Medinical Monday – Echinacea

Monday, October 17th, 2011

Echinacea

(Echinacea Augustifolia)

Echinacea is a Perennial plant from the the daisy family, Asteraceae. Native to North America, it grows to a height of 2-3 feet.

It was widely used by the Plains Indians for its medicinal qualities as a treatment for symptoms caused by the common cold. In the 1930s it became popular in both Europe and America as a herbal medicine.


Photo by BarefootGardener

Echinacea is produced in a variety of forms:

  • Pills, liquid, chewable tablets and instant tea.
  • Echinacea may be combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
  • A combination of Echinacea, wild indigo, water hemp and arnica have been proven to be especially effective for boosting immunity.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Echinacea contains several ingredients that exert an overall stimulating effect on the immune system.
  • It activates the liver, lymph nodes and mucous membranes, that enhances the body’s overall ability to fight infections.
  • Echinacea also contains substances that have wound healing and germicidal properties.

Components: (2 main ingredients)
Store-bought preparations are usually made from the flower, leaves and root.

  • echinacosides (in the flower and root)
  • polysaccharide heteroxylan (in the leaves)

Echinacea compresses
Echinacea possesses germ killing and wound healing properties.

  • Soak a damp cotton cloth in a solution containing 1 part Echinacea to 2 parts water and apply gently to the affected area.
  • A compresses can help to relieve swollen glands, inflammations of the veins (phlebitis), infected cuts, skin abrasions, burns and inflamed insect bites.

Side effects:
There have been no reports of side effects. However, take caution when taking Echinacea. Many preparations contain alcohol to increase shelf life, children should be given pure pressed juice, lozenges or chewable tablets.

Latest research findings:
Extreme physical exertion can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Many sports physicians recommend that anyone undergoing endurance training take Echinacea for a day or so after extreme physical exertion to strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used for the treatment of coughs, sneezing, hoarseness, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus infections, skin inflammations, minor wounds, bladder or kidney infections, gynaecologic infections and general immune deficiency.

Duration of use:
Continuous use is not advised. Some studies suggest that it is only effective up to 10 days.

Tip: As soon as fever blisters begin, treat with Echinacea. Place a few drops of pressed Echinacea juice on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply  to the infected area. This remedy can halt the progression of the lesions or prevent them all together.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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