Luminescents & The Natural Herbalist

RED POPPY PETALS - PAPAVER RHOEAS

2018-11-26T18:55:00.000+00:00

Papaver rhoeas from which Red Poppy Petals are obtained are also called the common poppy, corn poppy, corn rose, field poppy, Flanders poppy or just red poppy is an annual herbaceous species of flowering plant in the poppy family, Papaveraceae. This poppy is commonly thought ofas an agricultural weed (hence the common names including “corn” and “field”) but after World War I, The Great War, as a symbol of armistice and remembrance (but not in all countries)

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Usage for Red Poppy Petals:-

The flowers of the corn poppy have a very long tradition of medicinal usage, especially for ailments in the elderly and young children.

They are mainly regarded (in syrup) as a mild pain reliever and as a treatment for irritable coughs but also help to reduce children’s nervous over-activity. Unlike the related opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) they are non-addictive. However, the plant does contain alkaloids, which are still under investigation, regarded as very very slightly narcotic and so should only be used under the supervision of a qualified herbalist.

The flowers and petals are anodyne, emollient, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypnotic, slightly narcotic and sedative.

An infusion is usually taken internally in the treatment of bronchial complaints and coughs, insomnia, poor digestion, nervous digestive disorders and minor painful conditions. The flowers are also used in the treatment of jaundice.

The petals are harvested as the flowers open and are dried for later use. They should be collected on a dry day and can be dried or more frequently made into a syrup. The latex in the seedpods is narcotic and slightly sedative. It can be used in very small quantities, and under expert supervision, as a sleep-inducing drug. The leaves and seeds are tonic. They are useful in the treatment of low fevers.

They are frequently used in Pot Pourri simply because they are pretty and keep their colour well when dried properly.

Constituents:-

Papaver Rhoeas is very slightly narcotic. The chief constituent of the fresh petals is the red colouring matter, which consists of Rhoeadic and Papaveric acids. This colour is much darkened by alkalis.

All parts of the plant contain the crystalline non-poisonous alkaloid Rhoeadine. The amount of active ingredients is very small and rather uncertain in quantity. There is great controversy as to the presence of Morphine. Also it has not been determined whether Meconic Acid, which is present in opium, is a constituent.

2018-11-21T15:55:00.003+00:00

LOGWOOD (AKA BLOODWOOD)

Logwood is obtained from a tree in the legume family that has been, and to a lesser extent, remains of great economic importance. It is sometimes known as Bloodwood for its ability to produce a deep red colour as a dye and from its classification. It has a multitude of other parochial names such as Blackwood, Bloodwood Tree, Bluewood, Campeachy Tree, Campeachy Wood, Campeche Logwood, Campeche Wood, Jamaica Wood, or Logwood Tree

It grows throughout Central America and even led to the founding of the modern nation of Belize, which grew from British logging camps of the 17th century.

The tree’s scientific name (Haematoxylum campechianum) means Bloodwood (haima being Greek for blood and xulon for wood). In fact, the name is also used for many other species, such the Spiny logwood and White logwood, that are not true logwoods but really belong to the genus Xylosma. Its always important, therefore, to check on the latin name for the wood to ensure you are buying the right one which, of course, is an important method to follow for almost all plant material.

Traditional Uses for Logwood:-

The wood was used for a long time as a natural source of dye, and still remains an important source of haematoxylin which is used in histology for staining.

The bark and leaves are also used in various medical applications. In its time, Logwood was considered a versatile dye, and was widely used on textiles but also for paper. The dye’s colour depends on the mordant used as well as the pH balance. It has a brownish hue in a neutral environment; a yellowish-red hue in an acidic environment and a blue to purple hue in an alkaline one.

#wood #dye #histology #herbs

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ARJUNA BARK

2018-11-05T17:09:00.002+00:00

ARJUNA BARK – Terminalia arjuna

Terminalia arjuna from which the bark known simply as Arjuna bark is obtained, is a tree of the genus Terminalia. It is commonly known as Arjuna or Arjun Tree Bark in English, Thella Maddi in Telugu, Kumbuk in Sinhala, Marudha Maram in Tamil and Neer Maruthu in Malayalam. It is known as Matthimara in Kannada and Kohda in Rajasthan.

The tree grows to around 20 to 25 metres in height and is distinguished by a prominent buttressed trunk. It forms a wide and large canopy at its crown and the branches drop downwards. It has oblong, conical leaves which are green on the top and brown below. It has smooth, grey bark and pale yellow flowers which appear between March and June.

its smooth and hairless but fibrous woody fruit is around 2 to 3 centimetres in size and divided into five wings which appears between September and November.

Distribution and Habitat:-

The tree is usually found growing on river banks or near dry river beds in Bangladesh and central India. It has been introduced to northern parts of South America.

There are three species of Terminalia all of which are used for traditional medicinal purposes. These species are Terminalia arjuna (this product) , Terminalia bellerica, and Terminalia chebula both of which have been traditionally used to help with high level of cholesterol.

Traditional Uses for Arjuna Bark:-

The bark of the tree was introduced originally into Ayurveda as a treatment for heart disease by Vagbhata (c. 7th century CE). who is one of the principal Ayurvedic classical commentators.

It was traditionally prepared as a milk infusion but was also mentioned in many ancient Indian vedas, and was a known practice for thousands of years, passed down by tradition, before vagbhata mentioned it in his writings. Vagbhata mentions Arjuna in the treatment of wounds, haemorrhages and ulcers, applied topically as a powder. The bark has traditionally been used to treat heart disease for centuries, which is why it got the nickname “Guardian of the heart.” The hero of the famous epic “Mahabharata”, was named after this tree because of its protective effects.

In Buddhism

In Theravada Buddhism, Arjuna is said to have been used as the tree for achieved enlightenment, or Bodhi by tenth Lord Buddha called “Anomadassi.

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TULSI ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-12-03T18:27:00.000+00:00

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TULSI ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Ocimum tenuiflorum

SCENT: Tulsi essential oil has a refreshing, invigorating, meditative aroma and is a sacred oil from India where it is planted around sacred places to protect them against negative influences.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium to Strong

PLANT PART USED: Whole Plant

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation

ORIGIN: India

COLOUR: Tulsi essential oil is light green in hue.

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Middle

Tulsi is refreshing, invigorating, meditative – is a sacred oil from India where it is planted around sacred places to protect them against negative influences.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:-

The oil has a very high eugenol content and should not be confused with Ocimum basilicum, the culinary basil – use it with caution and even then in very low concentrations for aromatherapy massage. The oil is wonderful for inhaling and in a room diffuser. It is a component in many ayurvedic treatments, and has its main action as a support for the respiratory, immune and digestive systems.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Citrus and floral oils

SELF HEAL HERB

2015-12-02T21:38:00.000+00:00

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SELF HEAL HERB

Prunella vulgaris

Also known as Western Isles Wildflowers, Square stem, Thimble flower, Sickle-heal, Sicklewort, Slough-heal, Hookweed, Panay, Proud carpenter, Herb carpenter, Hercules’ all-heal, Hook-heal, Carpenter’s herb, Heart of the earth, Brunel, Caravaun bog, Carpenter grass, Blue curls, Brownwort, Heal-all, All-heal, Bumble-bees, Herb, Fly Flowers, Heart of the Earth, London Bottles, Pick Pocket, Pimpernel, Prince’s Feather.

The self Heal plant is known as the heal-all and cure-all plant as it is thought to have all manner of properties that can be of assistance in healing in general. Self-heal has a reputation for keeping people well during an outbreak of infectious diseases. It is said to have an antibiotic effect. The plant is widely used in China – South America. In New Zealand it is used in ointments to heal stubborn cuts and bruises that will not heal on their own. In Ireland it is thought to be useful to treat heart complaints.

Of course all this is traditional and historical usage and there is no evidence that the plant contains any constituents that would support the historical and traditional claims made buts thats just the point for many people – If a plant has been used for centuries for any number of reasons by thousands of people in many different cultures then maybe there is something to it – and after all thats why the plant bears its common name of Self Heal!

TAILED PEPPER ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-12-02T08:53:00.000+00:00

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TAILED PEPPER ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Piper Cubeba

SCENT: Tailed Pepper essential oil has a strong ,bitter and woody aroma.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium to Strong

PLANT PART USED: Berries

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: Java

COLOUR: Tailed Pepper essential oil has a pale to dark yellow hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Middle

Tailed Pepper also known as the Cubeb Pepper or Java Pepper of the pepper family, is grown in Indonesia, particularly Java, also in The Congo and Sierre Leone in Africa. The berries from the woody vines are used to make the essential oil.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:-

carminative, diuretic, stimulant and antiseptic.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Bergamot, Clary Sage, Clove, Coriander, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lavender, Juniper, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin, Sage, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang.

HISTORY:

Tailed Pepper is mentioned in alchemical writings by its Arabic name. In his Theatrum Botanicum, John Parkinson tells that the king of Portugal prohibited the sale of cubeb in order to promote the black pepper (Piper nigrum) around 1640. It experienced a brief resurgence in 19th century Europe for medicinal uses, but has practically vanished from the European market since. It continues to be used as a flavouring agent for gins and cigarettes in the West, and as a seasoning for food in Indonesia and Africa.

FEVERFEW HERB

2015-11-30T19:47:00.001+00:00

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Effective migraine relief and fever reducer.

Tanacetum parthenium; syn. Chrysanthemum parthenium (L.) Pers., Pyrethrum parthenium Sm.

Feverfew is a traditional medicinal herb which is found in many old gardens, and is also occasionally grown for ornament; the plant grows into a small bush up to around 18 inches high, with citrus-scented leaves and is covered by flowers reminiscent of daisies. It spreads rapidly, and they will cover a wide area after a few years. It is also commonly seen in the literature by its synonyms, Chrysanthemum parthenium (L.) Bernh. and Pyrethrum parthenium (L.) Sm.

USES

Feverfew has been used for reducing fever and for treating headaches, arthritis and digestive problems. Modern work has supported the use of feverfew as a treatment for migraine headaches. By inhibiting the release of serotonin and prostaglandins, both of which are believed to aid the onset of migraines, feverfew limits the inflammation of blood vessels in the head. This stops the blood vessel spasm many believe contribute to headaches.

The active ingredients in feverfew include parthenolide and tanetin, both of which offer relief from migraine. Capsules or tablets of feverfew generally contain at least 205 mcg, parthenolide; however, it might take four to six weeks before they become effective, and feverfew is not a remedy for acute migraine attacks. Feverfew is found around the world and in the U.S. particularly in western states such as California. Adverse effects include: GI distress, mouth ulcers, and antiplatelet actions.

PARSNIP ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-11-28T21:09:00.000+00:00

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PARSNIP ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Pastinaca sativa

SCENT: Parsnip essential oil has a fresh and sweet, slightly herbaceaous aroma

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

PLANT PART USED: Root

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distilled

ORIGIN: India

COLOUR: Parsnip Essential Oil is pale green in hue

CONSISTENCY: Medium

NOTE: Middle

Parsnip essential oil is extracted from the root of the plant by steam distillation and has a long historical and traditional use in Europe but not widely used today.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Apart from its historical and largely inneffective use for treating obesity, Parsnip oil was once also used to treat kidney disorders, blood pressure and heart problems, asthma, anaemia, and to help support liver function and blood circulation. It is still used to help with the pain of rheumatism.

CAUTIONS: Not to be used in aromatherapy since it will cause skin sensitivity, especially to mucous membrane, however, well diluted and massaged into painful rheumatism affected areas it has no sensitivity issues

PALMAROSA ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-11-27T19:46:00.000+00:00

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PALMAROSA ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Cymbopogon martinii

SCENT: Palmarosa has a sweet, floral fragrance with a hint of rose.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium to Strong

PLANT PART USED: Grass

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation

ORIGIN: India

COLOUR: Palmarosa Essential Oil is pale yellow in hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin to Medium

NOTE: Middle

Palmarosa Grass is a wild growing plant has long slender stems and terminal flowering tops. The grassy leaves from which the essential oil is derived is extremely fragrant.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Palmarosa properties include use as an antiseptic, bactericidal, cicatrizant, digestive, febrifuge, hydrating, stimulant (digestive, circulatory), and tonic. It is used extensively as a fragrance component in cosmetics, perfumes and especially soaps due to its excellent tenacity. Aroma therapists recommend it as an oil to diffuse during flu epidemics. Its action against viral illnesses and bacteria – coupled with the attractive smell – make it a great oil to use to disinfect a room. Maggie Tisserand, in her book “Stress: The Aromatic Solution” recommends Palmarosa for acne, alopecia, lack of concentration and depression with apathy and despair.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Cananga, Geranium, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Guaiacwood, Cedarwood and floral oils.

HISTORY:

Palmarosa was known as Indian Geranium Oil and used in combination with the more expensive rose oils.

PEREIRA BRAVA ROOT

2015-11-27T19:10:00.000+00:00

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PAREIRA BRAVA ROOT

Also known as Ice Vine, Pareire, Pereira Brava, or Velvet Leaf.

Pareira Brava Root (Chondrodendron tomentosum) is sometimes known as Ice Vine, Pareire, Pereira Brava, or Velvet Leaf.

It is usually used for fluid retention and menstrual regulation but contains tubocurarine, an ingredient in modern intravenous (IV) anesthetics used to block nerve signals and paralyze muscles. However, very little, if any, of the tubocurarine in pareira gets absorbed into the body when taken by mouth. It has also been used historically in chronic inflammation of the bladder.

CAUTIONS

It is not safe to use pareira if you are pregnant. It might start your menstrual period and cause a miscarriage. It’s also best to avoid pareira if you are breast-feeding. Not enough is known about how it might affect the nursing infant.

Some people might try to inject pareira into the bloodstream, but this is UNSAFE AND SHOULD NOT BE ATTEMPTED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES

VALERIAN ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-11-26T18:35:00.000+00:00

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VALERIAN ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Valeriana faurieri

SCENT: Valerian essential oil has an earthy, slightly sweet scent characteristic of an oil derived from a root. Many find it a distasteful aroma.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium

PLANT PART USED: Roots

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation

ORIGIN: France

COLOUR: Valerian essential oil is yellow in hue.

CONSISTENCY: Medium

NOTE: Base

Valerian is native to Europe, North America, and the northern part of Asia. Altogether, the genus contains about 150 different species. These are widely distributed throughout the temperate zones. Both the root and the rhizome are highly prized for their healing properties. The major healing components found in the valerian root are valepotrits, valeranic acid, valeranone, valereal. These are all volatile oils that are found only in valerian.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Its aromatherapy applications are limited.

Valerian Root as a herb has been used to combat insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, tension, agitation, headaches as the result of nervous tension, and panic attacks. It has also been used on muscle spasms, palpitations of the heart, cardiovascular spasm and neuralgia.

Valerian Root is also believed to be a suitable replacement for catnip

based on similar chemical components.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Valerian Root essential oil blends well with Patchouli, Pine, Lavender, Cedarwood, Mandarin, Petitgrain and Rosemary.

HISTORY:

Valerian Root is gaining in popularity as a natural alternative to commercially available sedatives.

CAUTIONS:

May cause some skin sensitivity issues in some.

TICK BUSH ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-11-26T16:03:00.000+00:00

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TICK BUSH ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Kunzea ambigua

SCENT: Tick Bush Essential Oil has has a fragrance that is said to be refreshing, clean, stimulating and invigorating. Tick Bush is one of Australia’s newest oils. Tick Bush has a clean balsamic scent with fresh invigorating undertones.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

PLANT PART USED: Leaves and Flowers

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: Australia

COLOUR: Tick Bush Essential Oil is yellow to pale orange in hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Middle

Kunzea ambigua is a tall shrub with abundant white or pink flowers, which grows in the coolest coastal areas of Australia (Southern New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania).

TRADITIONAL ATTRIBUTES:

Kunzea ambigua is registered with the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration for the relief of symptoms of influenza, arthritis, rheumatism, muscular aches and pains, and to help relieve nervous tension, stress and mild anxiety. In skin care, Kunzea has been found to help serious skin conditions such as eczema and rashes.

The essential oil of Kunzea ambigua has been found effective against several bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and Candida albicans. In many cases, Kunzea ambigua has helped improve severe skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, ulcers and chillblains.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Blends well with other Australian natives and with most essential oils including peppermint, lemon myrtle and lavender

HISTORY:

Native animals are often found sleeping under Kunzea ambigua plants, where they seek relief from ticks and other parasites – hence the popular name of “tick bush”.

WINTERGREEN ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-11-26T12:36:00.000+00:00

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WINTERGREEN ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Gaultheria procumbens

SCENT: Wintergreen Essential Oil has a strong pleasing mint aroma.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium

PLANT PART USED: Leaves

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: India

COLOUR: Wintergreen Essential Oil is pale yellowin hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Top

Wintergreen is a small evergreen herb which grows up to 15cm high with slender stems, leathery serrated leaves, drooping white flowers followed by fleshy scarlet berries.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:-

It now has no known western aromatherapy associations and is generally used nowdays for its aroma.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Wintergreen blends well with Ylang Ylang, Peppermint, Marjoram Sweet, Lavender, Birch and Vanilla.

HISTORY:

Wintergreen and Sweet Birch oil are both nearly identical in chemical composition and aroma; similarly, both have been used in traditional folk remedies. This tradition has led to the discovery of Methyl Salicylate, its main ingredient, as a pain reliever. Wintergreen is a traditional native North American remedy, used for aches and pains and to help breathing while hunting or carrying heavy loads.

Wintergreen has a history of use as a pain reliever. It is also believed to increase the speed of healing for skin disorders, and when added to lotions, acts as a natural moisturiser.

CAUTIONS:

Safety in young children, nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not documented.

KELP POWDER

2015-09-22T21:32:00.000+01:00

KELP POWDER

A truly wonderful source of minerals, especially sea minerals for glandular health

Kelp (Laminaria digitata) is a large seaweed (algae), belonging to the brown algae and classified in the order Laminariales.

Despite their appearance they are not grouped with the normal aquatic or land plants (kingdom Plantae), but instead are included in either kingdom Protista or Chromista. There are about 30 different genera. Kelp grows in underwater forests (kelp forests) in clear, shallow, oceans, requiring nutrient rich water below about 20 °C, it offers a protection to some sea creatures, or food for others. It is known for its high growth rate – the genus Macrocystis grows up to 30 cm per day, to a total length of over 60 meters.

Through the 19th Century, the word “kelp” was closely associated with seaweeds that could be burned to obtain soda ash (primarily sodium carbonate). The seaweeds used included species from both the orders Laminariales and Fucales. The word “kelp” was also used directly to refer to these processed ashes.

USES

Kelp (Laminaria digitata) is a good source of marine minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. It is also an excellent source of iodine. Kelp also contains vitamins and cell salts essential for good nutrition and often a better source than meat, whole milk or eggs.

Kelp is a good promoter of glandular health, especially the thyroid, pituitary and adrenal glands. It has been credited with improved cardiovascular health and is used to balance the thyroid and lower blood pressure.

Due to its iodine binding ability in the thyroid, it acts as a radiation antagonist.

Kelp is rich in iodine and alkali. Kelp can be used in soap and glass production. Until the Leblanc process was commercialized in the early 1800s, burning of kelp in Scotland was one of the principal industrial sources of soda ash (predominantly sodium carbonate). Alginate, a kelp-derived carbohydrate, is used to thicken products such as ice cream, jelly, salad dressing, and toothpaste, as well as in manufactured goods.

#herbs #seaweed

2015-09-17T21:49:00.000+01:00

THUJA LEAVES

Thuja is a genus of coniferous trees in the Cupressaceae (cypress family). There are five species in the genus, two native to North America and three native to eastern Asia. The genus is monophyletic and sister to Thujopsis. They are……..

Thuja koraiensis – Korean Thuja
Thuja occidentalis – Eastern Arborvitae, Northern Whitecedar (this product)
Thuja plicata – Western Redcedar
Thuja standishii – Japanese Thuja
Thuja sutchuenensis – Sichuan Thuja

Thuja is an immunomodulator and is used effectively in the treatment of respiratory infections and bacterial infections.

Thuja is comsidered an excellent treatment for the common cold Thuja in combination with other herbal immunomodulator herbs like echinacea is thought to act even more effectively to stimulate the immune system.

A tea made from the leaves is used as a stimulating expectorant that is useful for treating bronchitis, colds and other respiratory problems. Externally the infusion is used as a skin wash for skin diseases like psoriasis, and fungal infections. Thuja may also be used in hot compresses and steam baths to ease rheumatism, arthritis, and achy muscles. an infused oil of the leaves made into a balm is soothing and effectve for aches, pains and to clear the nasal passages if used as a rub.

CAUTIONS

Thuja leaves are an abortifacient and irritant for digestive, urinary and reproductive systems and can produce nervous afflictions and convulsions when taken in large doses since the component Thujone is present which is a potent neurotoxin. It should not be taken during pregnancy.

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PELLITORY BARK

2015-09-16T16:49:00.000+01:00

PELLITORY BARK

Botanical name Zanthoxylum americanum it is also and sometimes known as Toothache Bush, Toothache Tree, Angelica Tree, Yellow Wood, Northern Prickly Ash, Suterberry, Suterberry Bark, Yellow Wood Berries, Pellitory Bark, Prickly Ash Berry

Pellitory is native to North America, and the bark (and sometimes the berries) of these American trees have been traditionally used medicinally. There are many other trees in this genus that grow on other continents, including Chinese Prickly Ash, which grows in Asia. The genus name, Zanthoxylum, is said to be derived from the Greek words, zanthos and xylum, meaning “yellow wood.”

Many eastern Native American tribes once valued Pellitory Bark as a means to stimulate saliva flow and as a remedy for upset stomach, sore throats, aching muscles, skin infections and various other conditions.

The bark was also widely used by herbalists to treat rheumatic conditions.

The primary chemical constituents of Pellitory Bark include essential oils, fat, sugar, gum, alkaloids (fagarine, magnoflorine, laurifoline, nitidine, chelerythrine), tannin, lignin (asarin), coumarins and phenol (xanthoxylin). It has a stimulating effect upon the entire body, including the lymphatic system and mucous membranes.

Pellitory Bark is said to stimulate sluggish digestion and help destroy toxins, worms and yeast overgrowth. It is considered to be as strong a stimulant as Cayenne Pepper, but is slower acting and longer lasting. Due to its stimulating effect on the lymphatic system, circulation and mucous membranes it has been used in the holistic treatment of many specific conditions, a few of which have included arthritis, candida, chilblains, cholera, diarrhoea, fatigue, fever, flatulence, lumbago, paralysis, Raynaud’s disease, rheumatism, Sickle-cell anaemia, sore throat, typhus and varicose veins.

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CROTON ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-09-14T19:13:00.001+01:00

CROTON ESSENTIAL OIL

A very rare plant, the entire parts smelling strongly of aniseed. Consequently the essential oil of which is both rare and expensive but equally highly prized. It is not the same as CASCARILLA which is even rarer, even mlre expensive and does belong to the same family of plants but is Croton eluteria

BOTANICAL NAME: Croton anisatum

SCENT: The Essential Oil has a strong aniseed aroma

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

PLANT PART USED: Wild Collected Bark

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: Madagascar

COLOUR: The essential oil has a light to medium yellow hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Top

CAUTIONS:

Use well diluted as with all essential oils. Avoid during pregnancy. As with all essential oils, they should not be used during pregnancy and never ingested (taken internally) and should be kept away from children and pets. No medicinal claims are made for this product and the notes above are provided for guidance purposes only. Essential Oils are powerful plant extracts and should be used with extreme caution. You should seek the advice of a qualified practitioner should you be in any doubt. Essential Oils from one of Europe's most trusted suppliers

KAFFIR LIME RIND ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-09-14T16:50:00.000+01:00

KAFFIR LIME RIND ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Citrus hystrix

SCENT: The Essential Oil has a light citrus like and green aroma

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Medium

PLANT PART USED: Wild Collected Fruit

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: Thailand

COLOUR: Kaffir Lime Rind essential oil has a light to medium yellow hue

CONSISTENCY: Thin

NOTE: Top

BLENDS WITH: Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Petitgrain, Cedar and Frankincense

Kaffir Lime is a fruit native to Indochina, India, The Philippines, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, and adjacent countries. It is used in Southeast Asian cuisine. The Essential oil distilled from its leaves contains very different chemical ingredients to the rind or fruit however.

USES:

It has been used as an antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic, antiviral, and insect repellent but also in hair products and ambient deodorisers.

HISTORY:

The juice and rinds of this fruit are used in traditional Indonesian medicine; and often spoken of as jeruk obat which means medicine citrus in Indonesia. The oil from the rind has strong insecticidal properties. Pure water with slices of the fruit floating in it is used in ceremonies throughout the Far East. A gel is made of kaffir lime extract in Thailand as a hair product because it is reputed to make the hair shine.

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CANANGA ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-08-30T12:23:00.000+01:00

CANANGA ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Cananga odorata

SCENT: Cananga essential oil has a sweet, exotic, deeply floral and heady scent with a creamy note. Cananga oil extracted from the flowers of plants growing in Java is said to contain fewer esters and more sesquiterpenes than ylang-ylang oil extracted from flowers growing in R้eunion, Madagascar, and the Comorro Islands. The main aromatic component of cananga is methyl anthranilate.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

PLANT PART USED: Flowers

EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam Distillation.

ORIGIN: Indonesia

COLOUR: Cananga Essential Oil has a yellow to orange hue

CONSISTENCY: Light

NOTE: Top

Cananga is a tall tropical tree up to 20m high with large, tender, fragrant flowers, which can be pink, mauve or yellow. The yellow flowers are considered best for the extraction of essential oil. The oil extracted from the tree in the western Indian Ocean is known as Ylang Ylang whilst in Malaysia and Indonesia, it is known as Cananga and is thought to have entirely different properties and whilst the fragrance is familiar it is more resinous than the, perhaps, more familiar Ylang Ylang.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:-

It is an aphrodisiac, anti-depressant, anti-infectious, antiseborrheic, antiseptic, euphoric, hypotensive, nervine, regulator, sedative (nervous), stimulant (circulatory), & tonic.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Rosewood, Jasmine, Vetiver, Opopanax, Bergamot, Mimosa, Cassia and Rose.

HISTORY:

The Cananga is a common village tree in Malaysia. Its fragrant flowers are worn for personal adornment. Long used for its sensual and aphrodisiacal properties, the fresh flowers are strewn on the beds of newly married couples. It was introduced to the island of R้eunion in the western Indian Ocean in the late 18th century, and from there to Nossi-B้ and the Comorro Islands about a century ago. The oil distilled from the flowers is known as cananga oil.

MUKKUL MYRRH - Commiphora Mukul

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MUKKUL MYRRH

Also known as Guggul and gum guggulu are the names given to a yellowish resin produced by the stem of the plant

CAUTIONS

Guggul should be used with caution by persons with liver disease and in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhoea. A physician should be consulted for any case of elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides.

The mukkul myrrh tree is a small, thorny plant distributed throughout India. This resin has been used historically and is also the source of modern extracts of guggul.

USES

The resin originates from the stem of the Mukkul myrrh tree, a thorny plant that grows throughout India where it has been used in the management of arthritis, rheumatism, boils, cardiovascular problems, dermatitis, eczema, high cholesterol, obesity and psoriasis.

It wasn’t until the 1960s that attention was first focused on guggul’s cholesterol-lowering abilities. It was then that Indian researchers discovered an ancient Sanskrit medical text that described the symptoms and treatment of high cholesterol – guggul was one of the main treatment recommendations.

Since then, both animal and human studies have confirmed guggul’s effectiveness in this area. In fact, the Indian Government has now approved guggul as a treatment for high cholesterol.

AMBER ESSENTIAL OIL

2015-08-24T21:45:00.000+01:00

AMBER ESSENTIAL OIL

Amber essential oil is a conundrum so read carefully

The industry calls this oil Amber and indeed it is made from the resin of one of the trees that, millions of years ago, was the source of the resin that eventually fossilised to produce the semi precious stone we all seem to like. This oil HAS NOT BEEN MADE FROM FOSSILISED AMBER. There would be no point. The semi precious resinous stone contains no essential oil. Any that it once did would have evaporated off or degraded millions of years ago. This oil is made from new resin. Don’t be fooled by people saying it is made from the resin of ancient trees. In essence, they mean the species is ancient but are using emotive descriptions to convey something not true.

Also, if it were possible to make an essential oil from fossilised Amber it would be considerably more expensive than this oil is. Fossilised Amber is a finite resource.

Fossilised resin has been subjected to extreme heat treatment by many in order to extract something from it – largely unsuccessfully.

Amber listed in natural perfume ingredients is made up of several precious oils like Cistus to create a substance known as Amber. For mass produced designer perfumes – a synthetic substitute is employed.

Having put the record straight and as a final word on the matter – it does smell divine!

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:- Useful for dull skin, so used in skincare preparations especially for mature skin and it is reportedly considered an aphrodisiac. Good when vapourised for bronchial conditions. It has no real aromatherapy attributes

BOTANICAL NAME Pinus succinefera

ALSO KNOWN AS:- Amber Pine

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

SCENT: The essential oil of Amber has a distinctly resinous aroma with prominent woody and earthy notes.

PLANT PART: Resin

EXTRACTION METHOD: CO2 Extraction

ORIGIN: Lithuania

COLOUR: Pale yellow to orange brown as it ages

CONSISTENCY: Medium

NOTE: Middle

BLENDS WELL WITH

Rose; Any wood oils, like Cypress or Fir; Ylang Ylang; Jasmine; Sandalwood; Lavender; Thyme

Cautions

As with all essential oils, they should not be used during pregnancy and never ingested (taken internally) and should be kept away from children and pets. No medicinal claims are made for this product and the notes above are provided for guidance purposes only. Essential Oils are powerful plant extracts and should be used with extreme caution. You should seek the advice of a qualified practitioner should you be in any doubt. ml

COFFEE ESSENTIAL OIL

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COFFEE ESSENTIAL OIL

BOTANICAL NAME: Coffea arabica

SCENT: Coffee essential oil has an aromatic and warming aroma.

STRENGTH OF AROMA: Strong

PLANT PART USED: Coffee Beans

EXTRACTION METHOD: Food Grade Solvent

ORIGIN: France

COLOUR: Coffee essential oil has a dark brown hue

CONSISTENCY: Thick and Viscous

NOTE: Base

Coffee essential oil is a warm and comforting aromatic oil with honeyed undertones, similar in scent to Cedar wood Virginian, but with a more lingering richness and exotic complexity and, of course, coffee.

REPORTED ATTRIBUTES:

Traditional and Emotional uses reportedly include:-

Used in Aromatherapy for mental clarity, sluggish digestion, and convalescing from debilitating illness.

BLENDS WELL WITH

Cedarwood Atlas, Clove bud, and Blood Orange for digestion insufficiencies. With Rosemary, Basil and Lemon for Mental clarity. And with Frankincense, Ginger grass, and Lime for recovery.

RASPBERRY LEAF

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RASPBERRY LEAF CUT

RASPBERRY LEAF GROUND

Raspberry is native to many parts of Europe and Northern America. The leaves of the raspberry plant have been used as a medicinal herb for centuries. It is thought to have many varied properties including those that are beneficial for pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. It is believed that raspberry leaf, if taken regularly through pregnancy and labour can:-

Ease the symptoms of morning sickness.
Sooth and prevent bleeding gums which many pregnant women often experience.
Relax the smooth muscles of the uterus when it is contracting (Burn & Withell, 1941).
Assist with the birth of the baby and the placenta.
Calm cramping of the uterus.
Provide a rich source of iron, calcium, manganese and magnesium. The magnesium content is especially helpful in strengthening the uterine muscles.
Raspberry leaf also contains vitamins B1, B3 and E which are valuable in pregnancy.
To promote a plentiful supply of breastmilk.
To help stop excess bleeding after birth.
To treat diarrhoea.
To regulate irregular menstrual cycle and decreases heavy periods.
To relieve sore throats.
To reduce fever.

It is thought that around one fifth of pregnant women take some form of raspberry leaf. Some women believe that it will shorten labour and make the birth easier. The use of this herb for remedial purposes dates back to the sixth century and its benefits in childbirth have been recorded as a proven aid in maternity in the most ancient of herbal books.

GALINGAL POWDERED

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POWDERED GALINGAL

Galanga languas

also known as Blue Ginger, Laos (its Indonesian name), Galanggal, and, somewhat confusingly, Galingale.

Most known as a spice in SE pastes for curry, adding earthiness and the slight zing of citrus ad tingle - its use even in cooking is primarily for health in the way that garlic is used for flavour but is known to be good for the heart and circulation.

Galangal is a rhizome with culinary and medicinal uses, best known in the west today for its appearance in Southeast Asia cuisine but also common in recipes from medieval Europe.

It resembles ginger in appearance but it tastes unlike ginger completely. In its raw form, galangal has a soapy (like coriander), earthy aroma and a pine-like flavour with a faint hint of citrus.

A mixture of galangal and lime juice is used as a tonic in parts of Southeast Asia. It is said to have the effect of an aphrodisiac, and act as a stimulant.

Galangal is grown in most Southeast-Asian countries, but was first harvested for use in cooking and medicine in China and Java. By the Middle Ages, Galangal was already in common use throughout Europe. Referred to as “the spice of life” by St. Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179), Galangal was, in fact, one of her favourite remedies. This famous herbalist used Galangal to treat everything from deafness and heart disease to indigestion.

During the 13th-14th centuries, Galangal was used by the Turkic peoples (who occupied much of present-day Russia) as a tea, and by the Arabs as a stimulant for their horses. It was used extensively throughout the East as a snuff for nasal infections, and in both Europe and Asia as an appetite stimulant and aphrodisiac.

Today, Galangal is still in use in Russia, where it is used to make vinegars as well as liqueurs. It also has a thriving market in India, where it is not only valued as a spice but also as a perfume to make deodorants.

Galangal is prescribed today by homeopathic practitioners, veterinarians, and other health care professionals and natural healers. It has been found effective as a remedy for the following ailments and conditions:

indigestion and stomach complaints
seasickness and motion sickness, including nausea
ulcers and inflammation of the stomach
rheumatism
colds, flu, and fevers
dementia
bad breath
poor blood circulation, especially in hands and feet

SUMAC

2015-08-17T16:44:00.000+01:00

SUMAC

Often mentioned by Chefs on TV but is it difficult to find in the stores? Well not if you know where to look......... Plus there is a recipe for its use

The drupes of the Genus Rhus are harvested, the hairy coating removed and then ground to a deep-red to purple powder, used in Middle Eastern cuisine as a spice with a sour taste, particularly with salads.

In North America, the smooth sumac, Rhus glabra, and the staghorn sumac, Rhus typhina, are sometimes used to make a beverage, termed “sumac-ade” or “Indian lemonade” or “rhus juice”. This drink is made by soaking the drupes in cool water, rubbing the active principle off the drupes, then straining the liquid through a cotton cloth and sweetening it. Native Americans also used the leaves and berries of the smooth and staghorn sumacs combined with tobacco in traditional smoking mixtures.

Species including the fragrant sumac Rhus aromatica, the littleleaf sumac, R. microphylla, the skunkbush sumac, R. trilobata, the smooth sumac, and the staghorn sumac are grown for ornament, either as the wild type or as cultivars.

The leaves of certain sumacs yield tannin (mostly pyrogallol), a substance used in vegetable tanning. Leather tanned with sumac is flexible, light in weight, and light in colour, even bordering on being white.

Dried sumac wood glows under UV lighting (blacklight) or so it is reported.

Rhus is a genus of approximately 250 species of flowering plants in the family Anacardiaceae. They are commonly called sumac or sumach. The name derives from the Greek name for sumac, rhous.

Sumac has a glorious colour and a delicious tangy, sour, slightly salty flavour. Sumac powder is the ground berries of a sumac bush, native to the Middle East. The ground sumac is used liberally sprinkled over rice in Turkey and Iran and also used as a dry seasoning on salads in the Middle East. When used to flavour meats or fish, the sour flavour of sumac mellows slightly on cooking and is a great flavour enhancer.

Recipe for Fattoush

Toasted pitta bread pieces are tossed with crisp cos or iceberg lettuce, spring onions, cucumber, fresh tomatoes and the very tangy Middle Eastern Sumac dressing in this salad.

ingredients

2 pitta breads
8 leaves cos lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces
2 spring onions, chopped
1 cucumber, chopped
3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
A handful chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons sumac powder
4 tablespoons lemon juice
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
small handful chopped fresh mint leaves

preparation method

Preheat oven to 180 C / Gas mark 4. Toast pittas 5 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, until crisp. Remove from heat, and break into bite size pieces. In a large bowl, toss together toasted pitta pieces, cos lettuce, spring onions, cucumber and tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix the parsley, garlic, sumac powder, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper and mint. Pour over the pitta mixture, and toss just before serving.