Herbal Collective Aug'16

The Better living with herbs and natural health

August, 2016

Make a Lavender Wand Blackberry Salad What is Herbalism?

Keep Cool with Herbs What Essential Oils Do

www.herbalcollective.ca

What George Teaches Us About Learning It’s halfway through summer and I always feel a bit of melancholy when that Publisher’s Note happens.

It’s as if everyone is saying it’s time to stop having fun, put that behind you and get serious now!

The colder weather is on its way.

Time for learning and getting back to school.

While we think we need to get serious, learning can also be fun.

Take, for instance, the lavender wand I learned to make while at a lavender festival in July.

That was fun. I had always wanted to make one but wasn’t quite sure how.

So I finally learned, was proud of the results and am happy to share the instructions with you in this issue so you can make one or several yourself.

Hopefully you’ll still be able to access fresh lavender stems to make this enjoyable craft.

Learning about herbs is fun and exciting.

It’s not just herbs - it’s also about essential oils, homeopathy, Ayurveda – an ancient method of using herbs based in India, as well as healthy food, digesting food properly through the gut and more.

Mid-summer is a great time to look at taking herbal courses to broaden your knowledge or to consider a career with. Or perhaps do something related such as massage therapy.

Many people who go into this industry find it very rewarding learning about it and helping other people as yourself.

I wish for the same with you.

Hopefully you will benefit from what you learn in this issue.

We always look forward to your feedback.

Tribute to George

I have a simple message, one that pains me somewhat but something I need to share after my youngest brother George passed away in early July.

The life lessons I learned from George are what I want to share as I know it will benefit you.

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Herbal Collective Aug,’16

He suffered from Marfan’s Syndrome, which is characterized by long limbs and affects the eye and heart. He was also a special person who lived in a home with similar people but he was happy and had a caring heart.

Everyone who knew him was touched in some way as the funeral service was filled to overflowing. Here is what I want to share about how George impacted people’s lives.

1. Never be afraid to laugh loudly and from the gut – George loved a good joke, riddles and funny stories.

2. Always be learning – there is a whole wide world out there of interesting things to learn. George collected binders full of anything that interested him, cut out articles from newspapers and often knew all about people before they met him.

3. Always be curious – George loved the story of Curious George and George of the Jungle. Being curious about life leads you to experience interesting things in life. With the help of a friend, George helped rebuild an old Essex truck, painted it bright yellow and now it looks beautiful.

4. Keep asking questions – this ties in with being curious. George was never afraid to ask questions about the things in life he wanted to know about.

5. Care about others – George cared about others and they in turn cared about him. His caring showed in his questions. One of the questions he asked is, “why do people have to suffer when they die?”

Feel free to comment on the Herbal Collective blog, follow us on our Facebook fanpage or send us an email at info@herbalcollective.ca or herbalcollectivemagazine@gmail.com

Contents The Theme: Learning about herbs, homeopathy, ayurveda and more.

Columns and Departments In the Kitchen Watermelon mint cooler, Blackberry salad..................................................11

Ayurveda way to stay cool.................................4 Jal Jeera summer beverage...............................5 Did You Know?

Did you know?.......................................................5 What are the best herbs for?............................5 What is herbalism?...............................................8 The power of learning homeopathy............14 Herb Gardening Mid summer herb garden tips..........................6 Features Your brain and the gut instinct........................7 What essential oils can do for you................12 Lavender wands, beautiful, useful...............15

The Herbal Collective published by Pro Write Publishing Publisher/Editor - Marilyn Zink Contact: 250-729-1593 info@herbalcollective.ca, www.herbalcollective.ca Contributors

Klaus Ferlow,Tawnya Ritco, Colin Gillies, Neelam Toprani, The Herbal Collective is published every month by Pro Write Publishing and distributed through social media, various platforms and the Herbal Collective blog and email list. Advertising deadline is around the 21 of every month. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the editor. Different viewpoints are welcome. All editorial material is copyrighted. Any medical advice is given solely for information purposes only and no responsibility is assumed on the publisher’s part.

Copyright © 2016

Herbal Collective, Aug,’16

3

Ayurveda Way to Stay Cool on Hot Summer Days

By Neelam Toprani

A

ccording to Ayurveda hot days of summer in June to September is a Pitta season. Pitta dosha is a one of the three psycho-physiological elements that govern the different activities of mind and body.

Composed of fire and water, Pitta dosha governs metabolism and transformation in the body, including digestion. Signs of an aggravated Pitta include excess stomach acid, heartburn, skin eruptions and irritability.If we already possess a Pitta prakriti ( nature), we are at an even higher risk of becoming out of balance.

5 Top Cool tips from Sewanti

`DIET: Following a Pitta-pacifying diet can help keep this fiery element in balance. Eat more of the sweet, bitter and astringent tastes, and less of the sour, salty and pungent tastes.

Sweet juicy fruits like melons, pears and grapes, vegetables like broccoli, cucumber and zucchini, dairy products like milk and Ghee and grains like rice are all excellent choices. Avoid sour foods like sour cream, vinegar and ketchup and spicy dishes. Cook with cooling spices such as mint, fennel, anise and cardamom.

LIFESTYLE: Protect from summer heat and balance work with leisure. Avoid long commutes and deadlines

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Herbal Collective August,’16

at work. If possible plan a vacation for the summer or enjoy fun activities on weekends and take time to enjoy life. Wear breathable natural fibers that have a cooling effect such as cotton and linen.

COOLING EXERCISE: Swimming is wonderful for soothing Pitta dosha. Other water-based sports are also good choices. Leisurely evening strolls are relaxing for both mind and body. An occasional moonlight walk is especially soothing for Pitta-ruffled emotions. Try cooling Pranayama techniques like Sitali and Sitkari which are done by inhaling through mouth and exhaling through nose.

MASSAGE WITH COOLING PITTA OIL: Self-massage will not only cool your skin but purify it as well.

Padmashri cooling Pitta oil is

prepared with pitta reducing herbs such as white sandalwood, amla, shatavari and Indian lotus in a base of cold pressed sesame oil to cool relax and pacify the body, alleviating the symptoms of Pitta dosha including heat irritation and inflammation

HERBS: Pump up digestion with Triphala plus. In summer, toxins can build up in the liver. This can manifest in a number of ways, from emotional irritability, to sensitive skin that over-reacts to the sun, insects or heat.

Triphala plus is formulated to balance and strengthen the liver while gently removing toxins.

Keeping the elimination system running smoothly is especially important in the summer months, when constipation can result in heat build-up in the tissues.

Continued next page

Do You Know?

This column is for some insightful tips on herbs.

You will find more details throughout this issue of the Herbal Collective 1. Do you know the origin of the word herbs? see page 8, the Herb as Healer for answer.

SUMMER BEVERAGE JAL JEERA Ingredients: 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp fennel seeds ¼ tsp black pepper corn 1 Cardamom Pulp made out of tamarind (soaked in water) or lemon juice 1 Tsp crushed fresh ginger ½ cup mint leaves finely shredded Black salt Raw sugar or any other sweetener of your choice Method Grind the dry ingredients. Add tamarind pulp, ginger, mint and dry spices to 4-5 glasses of filtered water. Add a pinch of black salt. Strain herbs and add raw sugar as per taste.

Chill the beverage and enjoy this digestive beverage to improve appetite and beat summer heat Neelam Toprani is the president and CEO of Sewanti Herbs in Vancouver, B.C., www.sewanti.com

Deadline for September’16 issue Aug 25 for ads/articles info@herbalcollective.ca or call 250-729-1593

2 Do you know what lion’s mane can do?

See page 7 for answer.

3. Do you know how far to harvest back a branch of herbs? See page 6 for answer.

4. Do you know the Law of Similars in homeoathy?

See page 14 for answer.

5. What are 4 herbs that help with skin? See page 9 for answer. Hint-bright red ad.

6. Do you know how potent essential oils are? How many drops of oil would equal 75 cups of tea? See page 12 for answer.

We hope you enjoy this little test. If you can’t find the answers, stay tuned for the next issue of the Herbal Collective.

Herbal Herb Collective, August,’16

Mid-Summer Herb Garden Tips

By Marilyn Zink

I

t’s a mid-summer evening and you are gazing at your lush bountiful herb garden.

Everything is blooming and the air is heavily scented with the aroma of your favorite herbs – lavender, rosemary, thyme, mint.

It’s very heady. You snip some fresh chives for your meal, gather some fresh mint for tea.

Everything is growing vigorously so it’s a great time to prune and harvest herbs to prepare for fall.

It’s best to harvest herbs in the morning after the dew has dried as the plant is just beginning to flower, as that is when the volatile oil is strongest.

August is also the time to remove spent plants and start planting a fall crop.

1. Don’t be afraid to get started with seeds in August as that gives at least 6 to 8 weeks for the fall growing season before it starts to cool off.

This also gives plenty of time for plants to establish roots over winter so they will be off to a

strong start the following spring.

2. If you’re going on vacation get a plant sitter to help. Go over everything that needs watering, group pots together or put them in the shade.

You might be tempted to leave the garden on its own but trying to recover plants that have been neglected too long can be disappointing.

Alternatively, the herbs can be put on a timed watering system.

They can also be mulched which will lock in moisture and keep weeds down.

3. Harvest entire branches of herbs back to within a few inches of the main stem to encourage new growth.

4. Prune the new growth first and avoid cutting into old wood of herbs such as lavender and rosemary. Hang herbs upside down in a cool, dark airy place such as a closet until they are brittle dry to the touch. Fasten a paper bag around the plants upside down with an elastic band that will shrink as the herbs dry.

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Your Brain and the Gut Instinct How Medicinal Mushrooms Help

By Tawnya Ritco, RHN ith summer in the rear view mirror, it’s time to gear up to be at the top of your game at work or school. Yet few of us realize that being mentally sharp involves supporting both your brain and your gut.

Digestive health has such an impact on our health.

Modern gastroenterology suggests that your gut instinct stems from the 500 million neurons¹ contained in the gastrointestinal tract; the network of nerves contained in the walls of everything from your esophagus to your stomach and intestines.² That network – the Enteric Nervous System³ (ENS) – is what is often described as the “second brain” since it is the body’s second largest concentration of nerves; behind only the brain.

In fact, there are 30% to 40% as many neurotransmitters identified in the gastrointestinal tract as there are in the brain.

The ENS controls digestion, including the biomechanics of the stomach and intestines and the alkalinity that allows digestive enzymes to work effectively. By producing 95% of the serotonin found in the body, the “second brain” governs how you react to environmental stress. Serotonin is a regulator of aging, learning and memory, along with many organ functions and growth factors, and affects your overall physical and mental well-being.

The ENS also produces as much dopamine as the brain; important for motivation, motor control and the production of other key hormones.

By working with the brain -- or independently -the ENS plays a strong role in supporting the healthy functioning of the body.

W

Protecting the GI Tract The connectivity between the ENS and the brain is yet another reason why nutrition is so important: The healthier the digestive system, the healthier the

body. To be more specific, the healthier the epithelial tissue in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, the better it will protect the nervous and circulatory systems from bacteria and viruses.

Steps to Better Digestion We can reduce stress on our digestive system – and the ENS – by consuming less processed foods and eating more plant-based foods. Incorporating fermented foods such as sauerkraut or kimchi can help increase beneficial bacteria and improve bowel health.

Hydration is also important, as is relaxation prior to and during meals. The medicinal mushroom Lion’s Mane -- associated with optimal nerve health – can assist in the proper functioning of the ENS and the way it communicates with the brain. By optimizing the integrity of the epithelial lining of the GI tract, nutritional supplements known to enhance tissue health are another avenue towards good digestion.

Everything from mood to decision-making can be affected when the GI tract is inflamed or otherwise under duress. That’s why healthy eating is one way to sustain balance.

Tawnya Ritco, RHN, specializes in the relationship between nutrition, lifestyle and vitality and has worked in the natural health industry for over 15 years. See back page or www.purica.com for better more.

Herbal Collective August, ‘16 7

What is Herbalism?

Most people in North America might not be familiar what herbalism is all about and I would like to inform you about the history of herbs and why it is very important for your

By Klaus Ferlow health and well being.

I would like to start by using the quote from Debra St. Claire, Master Herbalist (MH), a graduate of the Dominion Herbal College, Burnaby, B.C., the oldest North American Herbal College since 1926, said in her Pocket Herbal Reference Guide from 1992: "After the ability to synthesize medicine from inert substances such as petroleum and minerals was developed the therapeutic use of herbs diminished. The art of pharmacy turned to the production of drugs which could bring the quickest relief of symptoms, ignoring the reason that the symptoms appeared.

As we look back, perhaps it is time to reconsider the path. The use of these substances has spawned a myriad of unexpected problems, such as suppression of the very signals that our bodies produce to alert us to a need of change. Pain itself is a call to action – a call to remedy an imbalance in our lifestyle.

The proficient use of herbal therapy is directly connected to our ability to sense the first signal and to adjust our lifestyle accordingly. It is when these signals are continually ignored that disease has a chance to set itself more deeply within our bodies."

I myself was honoured by the Dominion Herbal College for my lifetime of dedication to the cause of herbal medicine, as practitioner, manufacturer, author, promoter and defender of herbs and the practice of art and science in herbal medicine. I received an Honorary Master Herbalist Diploma November 25th, 2008 and I am only the 5fth recipient of this prestigious Award in their 86th history.

"Herbs and plants are medical jewels gracing in the woods, fields and lanes, which few eyes see and minds understand." Carolus Linneus, Naturalist 1707 – 1778” 8 Herbal Collective Aug,’16

THE HERB AS HEALER A plant that is used as a medicine is referred to as an herb, the Latin word herba, the Old French erbe, and the derivation of Middle English herbe. It can be pronounced with or without the initial "h-sound". Originally, the term herb only applied to non-woody plants.

Later it came to be used to refer to any part of any plant used for flavouring or medicine. In the field of complementary and alternative health care, (CAM) – I really don’t like that term since we are dealing in traditional medicine and CAM as far as I am concerned should be used by the allopathic medicine - it is now used to mean any plant, in whole or in part, having nutritional and/or medicinal value. Individual or combined parts of plant that may be used include: seed, fruit, flower, leaf, stem, or root/rhizome.

Herbalism, or phytotherapy, is the use of plants to support the natural healing ability of the body. Several types of herbal medicine systems are in use today – in-

cluding Ayurvedic, Chinese, European, Native American, and Western Herbalism. Even though each system uses different morphologies, terms and herbs, each of these systems treat the whole body holistically; using the energy of the plants to work in synergy in each individual, in order to help the body to heal itself because the body itself is the best healer! Herbs have a remarkable history of healing human beings and maintaining good health when properly used.

Most herbs in their natural state are safe, and do not leave a residue in the body that could produce negative

How Herbs Work side effects. The opposite is with most drugs, synthetically developed in laboratories, even though some are extracted from plants. When these plants are not used in their natural state it can result in harmful side effects. Drugs tend to treat or mask a symptom or condition, while the use of herbals emphasizes that one could avoid getting sick in the first place because herbs help to balance and support the body.

The compounds in herbs work synergistically in the body to promote healing. All plants have therapeutic properties as they contain a variety of biologically active substances. Plants undergo photosynthesis, transforming carbon dioxide into energy rich substances.

The resulting carbon chains are further transformed into a variety of compounds such as lipids, alkaloids, essential oils and tannins. Through other biochemical process, minerals and nitrates are absorbed by the roots and transformed into vitamins, trace minerals and antibiotics.

Herbs can affect biological systems in our bodies at the cellular and organ level. Ultimately these high levels of biologically active substances can produce pharmacological and therapeutic effects.

The natural value of herbs is very high and organically grown herbs (without the use of chemical fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides spraying) offer maximum benefits.

Herbal medicine represents a particular approach to healing which differs from allopathic medicine.

Rather than relieving single symptoms with a single active ingredient, herbs offer a holistic approach by striving to heal the entire body by treating the cause.

Medicine can only be truly holistic

if it acknowledges the social and cultural context which the illness occurred, and then the desired healing takes place.

The renewed interest in holistic traditional medicine, as well as a great number of other alternative complementary therapies, has encouraged changes within the existing medical

profession. It is incumbent upon us all to seek out and utilize appropriate health alternatives. It appears that these opportunities will continue in the coming years.

It might surprise you that even today 80% of the total world population of 7 billion is still using herbs, herbal remedies and homeopathy for Continued page 10

Herbal Collective Aug,’16

9

How Herbs Work From page 9

healing. This was also stated a few years ago by Chris Kilham, the medicine hunter, author, lecturer – he teaches ethnobotany at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst at his lecture at public health shows in Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

There are multiple ways to dispense herbs: aromatics, decoctions, hot or cold infusions, juices, creams, salves, ointments, liniments, lotions, soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, sprays, medicinal oils, conditioners, teas, poultice and fomentations, powders, perfumes, syrups, tinctures, extracts (alcohol or glycerine based), pills, tablets, capsules, and whole herb (dry or fresh) and for cooking. The herbalist takes into consideration the nature of the imbalance and the method to best take full advantage of the healing attributes of the specific herb. To increase effectiveness, herbs may be used both internally and externally.

OUR HERBAL HERITAGE Medicinal plants are mentioned in the Bible, and various herbs are mentioned throughout.

"In the beginning God created the heaven on earth...and God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed, to you. It shall be for meat." Genesis 1:29 "He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and the herb for the service of man." Psalm 204-14" The ancient Egyptians wrote their findings on papyrus.

The Sumerians from Mesopotamia (modern Iraq) used tablets of cuneiform writing. Hippocrates was a famous Greek doctor. The Romans believed Greek doctors were the best. Galen was the doctor to the emperor Marcus Aurelius. Dioscorides was the emperor Nero’s doctor.

We learnt about herbs used in ancient India and ancient China through a famous Arabic doctor called Avicenna who had read the writing. Throughout Europe and in the Middle Ages monks in their monasteries, grew and used herbs as medicines.

In Germany Hildegard of Bingen who was an abbess and a herbalist treated the sick with herbs. Voyages of discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries resulted in the pilgrims taking to America herbs they used in England.

Then, over time, herbs native to America came to Europe and other parts of the world. In Britain, Nicholas Culpeter published a book to help ordinary people make their own herbal remedies instead of paying for expensive ones from doctors.

Herbs have been used for uncounted time for various purposes like healing the sick and infirm. People thought 10 Herbal Collective August,’16

that herbs keep the body in tune with nature as nature intended and maintain proper balance. Many scientific studies still continue with modern research following up the lead of old folklore and herbal uses to help finding new western medicine. Man also been aware of the effect on the body, mind spirit and emotion. For example – flowers were utilized to attract love, food and protection.

Fragrant plants were worn to heal the body and give you a sense of well being. The most costly flowers are offered to gods and goddesses and the use of aromatic incense is recorded from ancient times. When herbs are taken, the body starts to get cleansed and purifies itself.

Unlike chemically synthesized, highly concentrated drugs that may produce many negative side affects, herbs can effectively realign the body’s defences. Herbs do not produce instant cures, but rather offer a way to put the body in proper tune with nature. Nevertheless you are now in charge of your own body and health! And remember: "For every disease we know Mother Earth provides a herb to health and grow!"

I come to the conclusion of my article by using a quote from Dr. Carolyn Dean, MD, ND, herbalist acupuncturist, nutritionist from her book "Death by Modern Medicine:" We must always remember that allopathy is only a " medical model born of the industrial age, and to suggest that the oldest and most used healing arts in the world are secondary to allopathy is not only insulting but inaccurate as well. These traditional methods of restoring and maintaining maximum health, by virtue of their track record of safety and success, take second place to no other medical model."

My suggestion is you should try herbs, herbal remedies and homeopathic medicine (derived from botanical plants) so you can judge for yourself. But read all ingredients on the labels and avoid any harmful dangerous, hazardous chemicals. For more information about them, please check these websites: www.positivehealth.com/environmental/hidden-dangers-lurking-in-your-cosmeticsand-personal-care-products, www.positivehealth.com/ article/environmental/fragrance-a-growing-health-andenvironmental-hazard.

Klaus Ferlow, HMH, HA, author, innovator, lecturer, researcher, writer, founder of Ferlow Botanicals and NEEM RESEARCH, Honorary Master Herbalist (HMH) Domion Herbal College, Canadian Herbalist's Assocition (HA), board member of the Health Action Network Society, International Herb Association, Author of ‘Neem, Nature's Healing Gift to Humanity,www.neemresearch.ca, neemresearch1@gmail.com This information is offered for its educational value only and should not be used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease, contact your health care practitioner.

Blackberry Salad

2 cups of leafy greens I cup of arugula ½ cup slivered almonds ¾ cup fresh or frozen blackberries, thawed ½ cup slivered almonds ½ cup diced cucumber or sliced avocado

Watermelon Mint Cooler 4 cups seedless watermelon chunks 4 Tbsp. frozen limeade concentrate 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice Fresh mint leaves 1 1/2 cups crushed ice 3/4 cup gingerale Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Add more gingerale if needed.

Transfer to a pitcher and serve in tall glasses. Garnish with lime slice and mint leaves.

Blackberry Vinaigrette

1 Tbsp. honey ¼-1/2 cup fresh blackberries ¼ cup white or light balsamic vinegar ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ½ tsp. dried onion flakes or 1 green onion minced 1/8th tsp. salt 1/8th tsp. ground black pepper This fresh tasting blackberry salad is a great way to use summer’s bounty of blackberries.

Make the vinaigrette first. Muddle the blackberries and press out the juices. Heat the vinegar just to boiling. Add muddled blackberries to vinegar, turn off the heat and let mixture steep for five to 10 minutes. Strain seeds through a cheesecloth or close weaved strainer. Cool slightly, add remaining ingredients except oil and whisk until well blended. While whisking, drizzle in olive oil and whisk until the oil is blended thoroughly. Cover and set aside until ready to serve.

Prepare the salad. Wash greens, spin dry and place in a salad bowl. Check blackberries over and pick out any that have debris on them or not suitable for eating. Diced cucumber and mixed with greens. Add blackberries and almonds. Drizzle with blackberry balsamic vinaigrette.

Substitute blueberries, strawberies or use a mixture.

Herbal Collective August,’16 13

What Esential Oils Can Do for You

By Amanda Webster ssential oils are chemical compounds with aromatic properties found in the seeds, roots, stems, bark, flowers, and other parts of plants. For centuries, there are many stories of healing properties of these precious oils. There were also many ways essential oils were extracted out of different plants.

For example, rose oil was extracted by massaging leaves with animal fat. A lot of essential oils, like Lemon and Orange, are cold pressed. The vast majority of oils from plants are steam distilled at a certain temperature and a specific pressure.

The most therapeutic oils with optimum benefits are taken after the first distillation. I do not recommend purchasing any oils from any other distillation. Some companies will do further distillation to improve the oil's fragrance, but the chemical compounds of the plant have been altered. YIKES! A lot of companies also produce independent testing reports on the oils and even safety reports. Understand there is no regulation in purity or potency of essential oils, so these resources are incredibly valuable.

E

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Herbal Collective Aug,’16

How can you use essential oils once you find a great company?

Essential oils can be used aromatically (with a diffuser or by simply smelling the oil) and topically (on the skin).

Aromatic use is very safe. Always make sure the diffuser you purchase is compatible with the oils you purchase.

Cleaning the diffuser with each type of oil you use might also be in order, but many companies have improved on the diffusers used and cleaning isn't necessary every time you switch oils. Aromatic use is a great way to freshen hallways, bathrooms, and other areas. I love diffusing oils when company is over or in my bedroom to assist in relaxation.

Topical use is also very common and safe. The only controversial topic of topical use is neat application. Neat application occurs when the essential oils are put directly on the skin without dilution. Many companies state that most of their oils are safe for neat application. Use these recommendations with a grain of salt. Essential oils are VERY potent.

A single drop of oil is equal to seventy-five cups of tea with that particular plants. Such potency can be an issue with skin irritation. The most important rule with essential oils is to dilute in carrier oils. Carrier oils are plant based fatty oils used to dilute essential oils. A good rule of thumb is to always perform a skin patch test using 1 drop essential oil and 1ml carrier oil. This creates a 5% solution.

may occur, watch your pet for any signs of distress. Some of my animals have licked where I have put oils on my feet, and they had no issues at all.

So, if you have 5ml carrier oil (or 1 teaspoon), 5 drops of essential oil is the maximum to maintain the 5% solution. There are many safe carrier oils like vegetable oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, and other oils.

If you have a vitamin E allergy, Jojoba oil is a great option. If you or a family member has an allergy to nuts, please check for nut based oils in blends and steer clear of almond and coconut carrier oils. Ingredients should be listed on labels, however, it's always a safe idea to call the companies directly.

Use extra caution with young skin, elderly skin, sensitive skin, damaged skin, inflamed skin, and especially diseased skin. These skin types absorb more oil and are usually sensitive to the potency. Topical use of Wintergreen, peppermint, and birch should be avoided by people with sensitive skin. Aromatic use are safe for pregnant women, but caution should be shown with topical application, especially in the first three months.

Pregnant women should avoid the following oils: Aniseed, Basil, Birth, Camphor, Hyssop, Mugwort, Parsley seed or leaf, Pennroyal, Sage, Tansy, Tarragon, Wintergreen, Wormwood, Thuja, Clary Sage, and any other oil with phytoestrogen qualities. Internal use is also not recommended for pregnant women. If reaction occurs, dilute with carrier oils, not water. No essential oils on children younger than 18 months. Always keep oils out of reach of children.

Some books suggest topical application on pets.

Do not use essential oils on pets. They cannot handle the potency. Some oils that are perfectly safe for us have been shown to be highly toxic for animals. Oils containing terpenes, such as lavender an thyme, can actually cause liver and/or kidney failure in cats. Lavender and Thyme have been lauded in some books as fantastic flea and tick control. Tansy has been toxic to both cows and horses. Use caution around pets. Accidental exposure

Internal use is the most controversial topic of aromatherapy. A lot of reputable companies endorse internal use, however, most Aromatherapy and Herbal Associations, including the International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) contraindicate internal use of essential oils in their code of ethics by health care providers. The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy discourages aromatherapists of using essential oils internally unless trained to do so. They are currently exploring the safety of internal use. So contact a Certified Clinical Aromatherapist (CCA) before internal use.

DISCLAIMER: There is no uniform method for the testing of "therapeutic grade" essential oils. The Food and Drug Administration does not test essential oils, and none of my statements today have been tested or endorsed by the FDA or USDA. Contents of this article do not replace the care or advice of a physician. The author of this article is not a physician, and she will NOT diagnose, treat or give medical advice regarding any disease or illness. If you are pregnant or nursing, please refrain from use unless under the direction of a healthcare professional. Use at your own risk.

For more on aromatherapy and essential oils, follow me on Twitter.com @DoTerra865

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Aug,’16

13

The Power of Learning Homeopathy

By Colin Gillies he name ‘Homeopathy’ is derived from the Greek ‘homeo’ meaning similar and, ‘pathy’ meaning suffering. As we will see Homeopathy is based on the Law of Similars but it is much more than that.

Homeopathy was founded in the 18th into the 19th century by a German physician, Samuel Hahnemann.

As a physician he became disillusioned by the system of medicine practiced at the time and gave up his medical practice. As far as he was concerned the practice of medicine at the time was doing more harm than good.

For a living he commenced to translate medical texts as he was proficient in several languages. In one case he was translating a medical text about why a medicinal form of cinchona bark (active ingredient quinine) was effective in treating malaria. The author of the text postulated that quinine’s bitter quality was the reason for its effectiveness in treating malaria.

Hahnemann did not think this was the right conclusion as there were many medicines that were bitter but were not effective against malaria. Hahnemann decided to experiment by taking the malaria medicine himself even though he did not have malaria. He found that on taking the medicine it produced symptoms in him similar to symptoms one would have if they had malaria (periodic high fever, sweating, lethargy, etc.)

As a result he developed two theories: • The Law of Similars: a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person will cure those symptoms in a sick person • Provings: he identified how a medicine can be tested to determine its effectiveness in treating the sick (tested on healthy people) The system of using similars in healing was not new

T

HOMEOPATH Natural Solutions for Health

Colin J. Gillies, Adv. Dip. hom., MBCSH (250) 947-0288

12-221 2nd. Avenue, W. Qualicum Beach, B.C. V9K 2S5

Email: info@colingillieshomeopath.com

www.colingillieshomeopath.com 14

Herbal Collective, Aug,’16

as it was recognized as a method of healing back as far as the ancient Greeks and probably before that. Paracelsus in the 16th century, and others, also recognized the healing power of using similars (for example, if you burn yourself apply heat). Hahnemann formalized this method to be an irrefutable law.

So far this was all relatively acceptable to main stream medicine at the time however, what was to follow was not.

Hahnemann considered that there were three parts to life, physical, mental (mind) and spirit. The spirit being a state referred to by Hahnemann as the ‘vital force’ (vital energy) or a life force. According to Hahnemann, ‘this vital force animates the material body and is responsible for maintaining the body in harmonious operation as regards both sensations and functions’.

Without this vital force there would be no life. This life force is present everywhere in the body. Every cell of the body has this life force (energy fields) and is what distinguishes one cell from another. It directs cell function like Continued next page 16

Dr. Doug Kuramoto Naturopathic Physician

West Coast Naturopathic Medicine Ltd. 525 Pioneer Crescent Parksville, B.C. V9P 1V1 Tel: (250) 954-1955

Please note the Nanaimo office is now closed

Lavender Wands - Beautiful and Useful

W

hat is a lavender wand and why would you want to make one?

Lavender wands are a beautiful craft that gives pleasure to one who has it. They make great gifts for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays or other events.

Lavender has a long history of calming the nervous system with its fresh clean scent.

The wands placed in drawers help keep moths away and smell a whole lot better than moth balls.

Before you make the wands, gather your tools and supplies.

You will need scissors, ½’ to 5/8 inch wide and 2 feet long, string and 19 lavender stems.

Choose a strong stem from a variety such as French lavender.

The stems should be long so snip at the base of the plant after the dew has dried and while the stem is quite supple. Snip 19 stems – it needs to be an uneven number for weaving the ribbon.

1. Start by stripping all the leaves and extra buds from the stem.

2. Place the stems together so that all buds are at an equal level near the top.

3. Tie the ribbon around the stems leaving one very short end.

The short end should be no more than an inch after the ribbon is tied.

4. Hold the lavender bouquet with one hand and carefully bend the stems over and down with the other. Bend one stem at a time until they are evenly distributed and you have a cage that holds the lavender buds together.

5. With the long end of the ribbon dangling out through the cage, carefully pull it up towards the top of the cage and start weaving the ribbon over and under the stems. Hold the stems firmly and

give the ribbon a little tug as you are weaving to make the cage nice and snug.

6. Continue weaving the ribbon tightly around the cage making sure no buds are poking out. Be sure to go over and under each stem. Have patience, it will work out and look beautiful when done.

Each round of ribbon should be close to or touch the ribbon above but not overlap. (See photo)

7. When you’ve reached the bottom of the flowers, tie a knot with the ribbon. Use the remaining ribbon to make a decorative bow or wind the ribbon down the stem and make another decorative bow at the bottom. You can also make a separate decorative bow.

8. As the flowers and stems dry, the ribbon will loosen so you may need to retie it.

Herbal Collective Aug,’16

15

The Vital Life Force From page 16

a conductor of an orchestra and this vital force contains intelligence and information as to what functions each cell is designed to carry out.

Einstein said that behind everything in nature are energy fields.

Research in physics has revealed that these electro-magnetic energy fields can be measured. At the atomic and sub-atomic level all matter is the same; its form in the physical is determined by its energy level or vibratory rate. All similar cells have the same vibratory rate and this energy field somehow contains information as to its function (liver cell functions differently from a heart cell or kidney cell and so on).

Even a similar cell that is cancerous has a different energy field (vibration rate) that is detectable.

This indicates that the effect of cancer (disease) has changed the energy field of that cell. As a result, the cancer has changed the cell information so that when it reproduces it replicates cells with cancer. It also changes the function of the cell so that the body is not functioning normally.

Hahnemann held that ‘when a person falls ill it is only this spiritual, self-acting vital force present throughout the body that is deranged’. In most cases of illness we do not know the cause. Some causes are obvious such as injury from an accident or from food poisoning etc. but most cases a cause can’t be determined.

Even illness thought to be caused by a virus or bacteria is considered not to be the cause. Even Pasteur later in his life thought he got it wrong and considered that a virus or bacteria may be a symptom of the disease rather than the disease itself.

16 Herbal Collective July,’16

This is supported by the fact that not all people exposed to a virus actually get sick. In those cases it is the person’s vital force directed through the immune system that protects against the colonization of the virus that produces symptoms (such as in the common cold).

So to Hahnemann, ‘disease is a derangement of the body’s vital force which in most cases in of an unknown source’. How homeopathy recognizes the disease is by the symptoms the body produces in response to the derangement of the vital force.

erwise because we can’t see, touch or understand it. Same as gravity we can’t see it or touch it but we know it is there because of its effects.

Hahnemann found in his research that through a series of dilutions along with succussion (vigorous shaking) that the medicines produced were capable of acting at an energy level. The dilutions were to such a level that no molecules of the original substance (made from plants, minerals, animals) remained.

Paradoxically, the greater a substance was diluted and succussed the higher the energy level or potency.

All the symptoms (whether physical, mental or emotional) present as a result of the disease are considered to be the expression of the disease. The expression is the body trying to heal it-self and thus should be supported rather than opposed. For example, a skin condition such as eczema is not the disease itself but an expression of a deranged vital force which expresses itself as a skin condition.

In modern medicine there is no mention in medical literature of vital force or energy fields in the body. Anatomy and physiology books go into great detail about how this hormone activates that hormone which activates another hormone that performs a function.

But nowhere does it mention how the processes start…what is directing the body’s ‘orchestra’ into harmony…..what intelligence or information determines cell composition and function….what causes the heart to beat, the lungs to breathe, the skin to repair itself, etc. The only explanation can be the body’s life force….it doesn’t make it oth-

In treating disease, Homeopathy considers all the symptoms that are produced as a result of sickness are an expression of the derangement of the body’s vital force and that is the disease. Based on the Law of Similars a medicine is selected on its ability to produce symptoms similar to the disease symptoms. (We know from earlier on that quinine cures malaria but also produced malaria type symptoms in a healthy person).

Homeopathy is effective because it addresses the disease at the energy level. If the disease is the derangement of the body’s vital force then it makes sense that a medicine at the energy level is needed to affect a cure.

If the derangement is removed from the vital force by the effect of the energy medicine then the body’s expression of symptoms is also removed. Perhaps this is why modern medicine is not effective in curing chronic diseases in man…you can’t expect to cure a disease at an energy level with medicines that act at a chemical or material level.

Natural Health Directory The Natural Health h Directory is a resource for our readers who are looking for practitioners, products, education, herb farm or other herbal and natural health information.

Each listing links to a listing on the Herbal Collective website with links and contact information to that particular business.

Health Food Stores

Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery....................tel 250-748-4421

Click on the link for each page to get more information on each particular business.

To Get Listed; http://www. http://herbalcollective.ca/order or info@ herbalcollective.ca or call 1-250-7291593. .......................................................250-331-3228

Hypnotherapy

4-180 Central Ave, Duncan, www.lynnsvitamingallery.ca

Nanaimo Hpnotherapy Center......250-739-4609 www.nanaimohypnotherapycenter.com

Herbal Products

Natural Foods and Supplements

Ferlow Botanicals, www.ferlowbotanicals.com, info@ferlowbotanicals.com.....................604-322-4080

www.herbalcollective.ca/directory-natural-foods.html# Offers a wide selection of natural health products and nutritional supplements....................................905-695-0631 Canadian Bio Supplements Quality manufacturer of natural health products backed by over 5 years of clinical trials...................306-291-0871

Laughing Lichen Wildcrafted Herb & Tea

Naturopathic Doctors

www.herbalcollective.ca/directory-herbal-products.html AnneMarie Gianni Skin Care - natural, organic ingredi ents free of chemicals and preservatives

www.laughinglichen.ca, laughinglichen@gmail.com..............1-778-884-2371 Find medicinal mushrooms at www.Purica.com Wild Oil of Oregano, www.wildoiloforegano.com

www.wildtamanuoil.com

Flower Remedies

www.herbalcollective.ca/directory-naturopathic-doctors.html

Pacific Holistic Center, Dr Doug Kuramoto.

In Parksville................................................ 250-954-1955

Reflexology

www.herbalcollective.ca/directory-reflexology.html Pacific Institute of Reflexology Directory Chris Shirley, www.pacificreflexology.com....... ......................................604-875-8818 or 1-800-688-9748

Sarah Brune, Bach foundation registered practitioner, author, educator....www.bachflowerscanada.com..

Advertise Here for Pennies a Day! Email info@herbalcollective.ca

www.roadtomillionaireminds.com Herbal Collective Aug,’16

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