Feb 5, 20233 min read

C is for...

Learn about the wonderful world of herbs with our ABCs of Herbs series.

In our ABCs of Herbs series, we want to give you a bit of background about the herbs we use in our essential oil blends. This will focus more on what the herb is for, and not about identification.

All information has been learned through the years by me through study and certification.

Calendula

(Calendula officinalis L)

Calendula is a powerful wound and tissue healer both externally and internally. Stimulates white blood cell production, to curb infection. Ideal for infections that have been trapped in the body for long period of time. Clears toxins, and inflammation. Used to stimulate lymphatic drainage and is used for all sorts of stagnant lymph conditions, such as swollen glands, breast cysts, pelvic cysts, and intestinal bloating, and lymph inflammation. Used as a tea, or tincture to treat ulcers, throat irritations caused by acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel disease. Supports the gallbladder, liver and digestive system. Used during cold and flu season to help resist pathogens; supports the female reproductive system, normalizes menstrual cycle, and helps with PMS.

Considered to be antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory; it is safe for all ages, and mild enough it can be used safely for babies.

Calendula has shown improvement in those with leaky gut-(leaky gut can lead to many digestive problems and is thought to be a root cause of many autoimmune disorders.) However it is important that you figure out what is triggering your condition and remove the cause if you want to see long term improvement.

Calendula is considered a very safe herb, but should not be used during pregnancy as it promotes contractions (McIntyre, 1996).

Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family (such as feverfew, chamomile, or Echinacea species) should exercise caution with calendula.

Chamomile

(Matricaria recutita)

Such a soothing herb, and in particular safe for children. Soothes PMS, eases colic, soothing to the nervous system, promotes joy and eases upset stomach. Supports the immune system, and when used in a salve is wonderful for relieving sore breasts and nipples, dry, cracked skin, and is anti-inflammatory. Chamomile is high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and Vitamin B2. When used in TINY amounts as a tea, it has shown promise as a relief for baby acid reflux.

Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family (such as feverfew, calendula, or Echinacea species) should exercise caution.

Chili Powder and Cayenne

(Capsicum annum)

Chili peppers have been shown to have components that help arthritis related pains, assist in supporting heart health, supports healthy cholesterol levels, and is antibacterial. This plant has properties that are antimicrobial, help reduce pain, anti-fungal, and stimulates the immune system. It increases circulation. Due to it's hot nature, it is hard to injest enough of this plant to get the full benefits, but it works great in a salve.

You should avoid using therapeutic amounts, if you suffer from ulcers. They can be very hot, so please check the H.U. rating on each one.

Cinnamon

(Cinnamomum verum/Zeylanicum) aka Ceylon cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used for centuries to help control diabetes. This type of cinnamon is not the same as you typically buy in the grocery store (which is usually the cassia type). There have been several studies done with positive results regarding tumor inhibition, fungal infections, and bacterial infections. It's helps resolve sore throats, and is helpful during cold and flu season. It has shown positive results for pms, and post-partum. It tastes great in teas too!

Avoid large doses during pregnancy, if you are diabetic, monitor your levels closely while enjoying this herb.

Comfrey Leaf

(Symphytum uplandicum)

Used throughout the ages as a wound healer, and repairer of broken bones, Comfrey has amazing skin and bone healing abilities. There is some risk to using this herb internally, so we only offer it in salves. Wonderful for burns, abrasions, bruises, eczema, swellings, and safe for children's skin too.

Use only on clean wounds, due to it's speedy healing abilities, it may seal in debris and dirt without eliminating an infection. If using on broken bones (in particular fingers or toes) be sure the bone is set correctly before applying.