Lower Your Triglycerides

EAT FRUIT, which contains fiber and slows the rate at which the fructose is broken down, rather than drinking fruit juice.

DECREASE total carbohydrate intake, especially from foods that contain simple and processed carbs.

LIMIT ALCOHOL intake to one drink per day for women, two per day for men, excess alcohol consumption can raise triglycerides.

EXERCISE with moderate-intensity aerobic exercise 30 minutes per day at least five days a week.

Cold & Flu Season & Natural Supplements

Cold & Flu season is upon us and "The Herb Lady" has all your natural herb products ready to help you fight the cold & flu this winter. Keep your immune systems healthy and fight the cold and flu with supplementing with Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, and Elderberrry every day. I also carry natural anti-biotics and immume system builders. Plus plenty of cold & flu teas and herbs, including the popular "Cold & Flu Tea" and the "Lung Tea. So don't forget when you start feeling sick or just want to keep from getting sick, stop by "The Herb Lady" and check out the natural way to keep your self well for the winter.

Crystals, Stones, Jewelry, & more

Large Crystals

Medium Crystals

Animal Figurines

Decorative Eggs & small bowls

Pendulums & bracelets

Crystals & Stones

Lavender Oil for Ear Infection

Lavender oil is a great remedy for ear infections. It owes its ability to treat ear infections to its antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic and antifungal properties. There are two main methods that you can use to make lavender oil treat ear infections. Take a cotton ball, dip it in lavender oil, squeeze it to remove excess oil. Place it at the opening of your ear. The fumes will reach the infected part of the ear and treat it with all its healing properties. Secondly, take 1-2 drops of lavender oil and spread it at the back of the affected ear. The back of the ear is where the mastoid bone is located. Massage the area gently with your fingers in a circular motion. Do it twice a day to cure ear infections and reduce earache. It may take a few days to give noticeable results.

Conquer body odor with zinc

Hot summer days are known for creating the type of body odor that deodorant often can't hide. Your best defense: Take a 25-mg zinc supplement daily. Research shows the mineral deodorizes the whole body by stopping the growth of smelly bacteria on the skin. And according to surveys, 73% of us don't get enough zinc in our diets-up to one in three have a full-blown deficiency in the summer months, since it's lost through the pores in perspiration!

Source: Woman's World July, 2010

Chamomile Tea & Anxiety

In "The Tale of Peter Rabbit", Peter's mother gives her mischievious son a cup of chamomile tea after his run-in with Mr. Mcgregor. She's clearly a wise herbalist, as chamomile (Matricaria recutita) soothes jangled nerves.
Researchers in Philadelphia, who published a recent study in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, are the latest group to confirm this application. They gave 57 people suffering from severe anxiety either a placebo or chamomile extract (220 mg/day to a maximum of 1,100 mg/day). After eight weeks, those using chamomile showed significantly less anxiety.
Most people consider chamomile the go-to-herbal tea, using it sometimes to help with sleep. But this herb has a centuries old application as a "nervine," an herb that calms the nervous system. Try drinking a cup of strong chamomile before any event that might make you nervous, such as a job interview or a presentation at work. And, of course, if insomnia poses a problem, try drinking a cup of strong chamomile tea an hour before bed.

Source: The Herb Quarterly Summer 2010

Hibiscus For Blood Pressure, & Diabetes

Over the last five years or so, hibiscus has gained status in the herb world as an effective way to control blood pressure. New studies confirm that application-and support a new one: It's ability to lower cholesterol.
For the blood pressure study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, Tufts University researchers gave either a placebo or hibiscus tea (three cups a day) to 65 people with borderline or mildly high blood pressure. After six weeks, the herb reduced blood pressure significantly, and the higher the blood pressure at the start of the study, the greater the reduction with hibiscus. The herb is not a substitute for prescribed medication, but it can be used in addition or as a daily part of one's regular blood pressure control program.
In the cholesterol trial, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Iranian scientists gave 53 type 2 diabetics either black tea or hibiscus tea (two cups a day). After one month, the hibiscus group showed lower total cholesterol with higher HDLs (good cholesterol). (Cholesterol control is particularly important for people with diabetes; the condition substantially raises risk of heart disease.)

Source: The Herb Quarterly Summer 2010

Essential Oils at The Herb Lady

Allspice                                              Bottled Bouquet Oil Blend 
Balsam Fir                                          Good Morning Sunshine Blend
Basil                                                   Natures Shield Oil Blend (compare to thieves oil)
Bay                                                     Peace, Love, & Flowers Blend
Bergamont                                          Smiles for Miles Blend
Camphor                                             Cheer Up Buttercup Blend
Carrot Seed                                         Clear the Air Blend
Cedarwood                                          Mental Focus Blend
Chamomile (roman)                            Peace & Harmony Blend
Cinnamon                                            Naturally Lovable Blend
Citronella                                             Peaceful Sleep Blend
Clary Sage                                           Pepper Oil
Clove                                                   Helichrysum Oil
Coriander
Cypress
Eucalyptus
Fennel Seed
Frankincense
Geranium
Ginger
Grapefruit
Jasmine
Juniper Berry
Lavender
Lavender/Tea Tree
Lemon
Lemon/Eucalyptus
Lemongrass
Lime
Marjoram
Myrhh
Neroli
Nutmeg
Orange
Oregano
Palmorosa
Patchouli
Pennyroyal
Peppermint
Pine Needle
Rose Hip Seed
Rosewood
Rosemary
Sage
Sandlewood
Spearmint
Tangerine
Tea Tree
Thyme
Wintergreen
Vanilla
Ylang Ylang

MINT What to do with it

According to Greek mythology, mint symbolizes hospitality; mortals rubbed the vibrant leaves on the table to welcome the gods. But this aromatic herb, which proliferates in warm months, can do far more than freshen up a table. On the plate, mint can star in both sweet and savory creations. Try it in everything from ice cream to tea, or use it to top lamb chops or a platter of mint-stuffed fish. Not only can mint do wonders for digestion, but its oil can also soothe the skin and sweeten the breath. Hospitality, indeed.

Perfume Fragrances at The Herb Lady

I carry Kuumba Made Exquisite Fragrances created with the oils and resins of flowers, plants, roots and trees, and are free of dilutants, alcohols, petroleum, and animal products. Non-toxic, no aminal testing.
Since ancient times fragrances have been used not only as perfumes, but also to enhance spiritual & emotional healing. Annoit yourself with the beauty, mystery, & sensuality of the ancients.

Amber Paste
Amber/Sandalwood
Black Coconut
Egyptian Musk
Frankincense/Myrhh
Lily of the Valley
Persian Garden
Pikaki Lei
Tunisian Patchouli
Water Goddess
White Ginger
Zen Rain

Lemon Oil

Lemons have long been valued for more than lemonade. We know that ancient Egyptians prized this oil for its purported ability to act as an antidote to fish and meat poisoning. And, like lime, it was a staple on 17th century Royal Navy ships to help prevent scurvy. Today, we know lemon can help contain and treat infectious diseases, especially colds and fevers. Its scent also helps to increase concentration, and neutralizes unpleasant odors. Some hospitals use lemon oil to help calm frightened or depressed patients. It also boosts the immune system by stimulating production of white and red blood cells. Lemon oil is a must for every aromatherapy kit.

Therapeutic uses: Air freshener, anemia, circulation, colds and flu, constipation, corns, coughs, dandruff, depression, digestive system, dull complexion, emotional confusion, fatigue, fingernail toughener, greasy hair and skin, hypertension, household cleanser, immune booster, insect repellent, joint pain, low energy, listlessness, mouth ulcers, nosebleed, PMS, scars, stress, throat infections, voice loss, warts.

FUN FACT: In Japan, lemon essential oil is used throughout banks everywhere in order to reduce worker error.

Source: Aromatherapy for Everyone by PJ pierson and Mary Shipley

Curcumin + Black Pepper

Curcumin is known for its anticancer properties, but this compound (found in the spice turmeric) is also making waves in Alzheimer's disease research. A study found that, compared with those who got a placebo, Alzheimer's patients who took 1 g of curcumin either as a supplement or mixed with food reduced the buildup of plaque in their brains. Howerer, curcumin tends to be poorly absorbed, so you'll need to mix it with black pepper to increase its absorption up to 2,000%.

Spice Up Your Palate: Turmeric has been used for centuries in Indian curries, but it may taste strong to an American palate. Start with 1/2 tsp daily. Once you get used to the flavor, mix it with black pepper to make a rub for fish or chicken.

Source: Prevention "Fit Over 40"

Green Tea plus Lemon

In a study of more than 40,500 Japanese men and women, those who drank five or more cups of green tea every day had the lowest risk of dying of heart disease and stroke. Researchers attribute the protective effect to catechins, powerful antioxidants. Trouble is, less than 20% of these relatively unstable compounds survive digestion. To get more out of every cup, squeeze in some lemon juice. The vitamin C in lemons helps your body absorb 13 times more catechins than it can obtain from plain tea alone, according to a Purdue University study.

Sip to Your Heart's Content with the catechin boost from vitamin C, you can help your heart by drinking just one or two cups daily, If lemons make you pucker, squeeze in some orane, lime, or grapefruit juice; they increase antioxidant absorption, too, though to a lesser extent. Just skip the milk-it actually interferes with absorption-and stick to freshly brewed tea, hot or iced.

Source: Prevention "Fit Over 40"

Berry-Banana Smoothie

1 banana, cut into chunks
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/4 cup frozen blueberries
1/4 cup frozen strawberries
1 tsp peanut butter
1/2 tsp honey

Place banana, milk, blueberries, strawberries, peanut butter, and honey in blender. Process until well combined and smooth. Enjoy

Your Complete Guide to Beans and Other Legumes

The versatility of beans and other legumes makes them a flavorful side dish or addition to soups and salads. Beans and other legumes are a good source of protein and fiber and can be eaten fresh, dried, frozen, or canned (without sugar). Start with 1/3 to 1/2 cup serving. Avoid canned beans or other legumes that contain brown sugar, lard, or molasses.

Beans and other legumes are also extremely nutritious and can help improve your health. Here's how:

1. All legumes are a major source of soluble fiber, which helps to remove cholesterol from the body before it's absorbed.
2. The fiber in beans and other legumes also slows digestion and, as a result, prevents a sharp rise in blood-sugar levels, which helps prevent cravings.
3. In addition to fiber, legumes are high in protein, folate, potassium, iron, calcium, and B vitamins. And they contain no unhealthy fat.

There are an abundance of legume varieties including:

Adzuki beans, Black beans, Black-eyed peas, Broad beans, Butter beans, Cannellini beans, Chickpeas, Garbanzos, Edamame, Fava beans, Great northern beans, Italian beans, Kidney beans, Lentils, Lima beans, Mung beans, Navy beans, Pigeon beans, Pinto beans, Refried bean, fat free, canned, Soybeans, Split peas,

Toenail or Fingernail Fungus Remedy

Oil of Oregano has been very effective in treating toenail or fingernail fungus. Look for oregano oil in softgel capsules. Usually about 150 mg per capsule. When the skin is affected, it's good to topically treat it but also to treat it internally. Take two capsules of oregano oil three times daily for about a week to 10 days. Additionally, pierce a capsule with a pin and squeeze the oil around the area affected by fungus. You may also want to use a q-tip saturated with oregano oil so that you can apply it under the toenail or fingernail. There has been excellent result with this treatment.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary Oil is both a physical and mental stimulant, which makes it a good oil to have in the morning bath, while also being excellent in the treatment of all muscular conditions, making it the perfect oil for a bath after a long, tiring day. This antiseptic oil is used in the treatment of muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraine, headaches, coughs, flu, and diabetes, among other conditions. It is also very useful in beauty treatments, being used in hair care and acne and cellulite remedies. For the sportsman, cook, and gardener, rosemary is invaluable.

Exercise Lowers The Prostate Cancer Risk

A recent study conducted through Duke University clearly demonstrated a reduced risk of prostate cancer in men who exercise. Exercise has been shown to have numerous health benefits and now reduction of prostate cancer risk can be added to the list.
The latest research found that in men who exercised moderately, the equivalent of three or more hours of brisk walking a week, were two-thirds less likely than their sedentary counterparts to have prostate cancer. Of interest also was that among men who did have cancer, those who exercised at least one hour of walking a week, were less likely to have aggressive, faster growing cancers. In other words, men who exercised were less likely to get prostate cancer and if they did get cancer it was easier to cure.

Vitamin D Deficiency Almost Epidemic

While the optimum amount of vitamin D is still subject to debate, a new study finds one thing for certain; over six million American children are getting too little of this essential nutrient. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children obtain blood levels of vitamin D of at least 50 while for adults 75 to 100 could lower the risk of heart disease and specific cancers. Based on this data researchers found that 6.3 million US children, almost one in five, were deficient in vitamin D. Of interest, 80% of Hispanics, 92% of blacks, and 59% of white children were found to be vitamin D deficient.
The body naturally produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sun. In addition the intestines, liver, and kidney all work in conjunction with the skin to form the ultimate end product: vitamin D3, otherwise known as cholecalciferol.
Only a few foods contain vitamin D including salmon and egg yolks. In addition milk and some cereals are fortified with vitamin D. It seem prudent in the wake of the recent information that not only children but adults as well would benefit by taking a vitamin D3 supplement

Source: Institute For Healthy Living February 24,2010

Eucalyptus Oil

Centuries ago, the eucalyptus tree was thought to cleanse the environment, so the frail and sickly would choose to live in areas where these fragrant trees grew, hoping for recovery from their ailments. While just living under the trees might not be the cure people hoped for, the tree does indeed offer healing. The Australian Aborigines applied crushed eucalyptus leaves to wounds to promote healing. They also used the leaves to fight infection and relieve muscular pain. In India it is used to cool fever and fight contagious diseases.

Therapeutic uses: Antibacterial, asthma, arthritis, chicken pox, coughs, decongestant, fever, insect repellent, measles, migraine, muscle pain, rheumatism, shingles, sinusitis, sprains, throat infections.

FUN FACT In the 19th century, eucalyptus trees were called "fever trees," because they destroyed the breeding ground of the malaria mosquito. The tree grows fast, and uses up large amounts of water, thus large amounts of the trees can turn swamp into usable land-and also rid the area of mosquitos in the process.

Source: Aromatherapy for Everyone By Pj Pierson and Mary Shipley

Low Levels Of Omega-3 May Shorten Life Span

A new study from researchers at Harvard found Omega-3 deficiencies can cause up to 96,000 preventable deaths annually in the United States. Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency ranked as the sixth highest killer of Americans. Tobacco smoking ranks as the highest risk factor for preventable death followed by high blood pressure, obesity, physical inactivity, and high salt intake.

Studies on Omega-3 fatty acids are becoming increasingly more important as we recognize the benefits of Omega-3 supplementation. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid consisting of EPA and ALA. On this note oily fishes such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel are good sources of Omega-3. However, given that our oceans and streams are polluted withmercury, dioxins, and contaminants, even too much fish can be hazardous. Therefore researchers suggest fish consumption be limited to two times a week.

Relying on adequate levels of Omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources alone seems ill advised. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to be beneficial for heart health, circulation, brain, neurological functions as well as maintaining good hair, skin and nails. Clearly daily supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids

Source: The Institute For Healthy Living February 17, 2010

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is a natural antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-infection oil. It is effective against nail fungus, ringworm, athlete's foot, dandruff, acne and many types of infestations including lice, mites and scabies. Tea tree oil is not just soothing and disinfecting, it is capable of penetrating into the lower skin layers with its anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, analgesic (pain killing) and cicatrizant (wound-healing) qualities. It helps the skin to heal by encouraging the formation of scar tissue. People with sensitive skin should introduce the oil with caution. Tea tree oil is not to be taken internally except as a mouthwash or gargle as directed.

How To Tell If You're B12 Deficient

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that is found in meat and dairy. It plays a critical role in the health of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells. The American Academy of Family Physicians has listed the following as symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency: dementia, depression, anemia, nervous system abnormalities, an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Vitamin B12 is one of the water soluble B vitamins. The B vitamins are also known as the brain vitamins and the vitamins most necessary to help us in times of stress. In addition, in times of a B12 deficiency, patients often report difficulty thinking and concentrating. Jitteriness, irritability, and mood swings as well as fatigue, lack of energy, and cold hands and feet. Many people are B12 deficient and rather than take B12, assume their problem is related to something else. A simple, easy way to evaluate B12 status is to begin taking an excellent supplement and see if symptoms improve. Upon supplementation some people notice improvement within a few days; for others it can take up to three months. However, virtually everyone who begins taking a good B12 supplement reports improvement in energy, stamina, and well being.

The Institute of Healthy Living February 10th, 2010

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a plant which sends its roots down twenty to thirty feet into the ground and brings up minerals that are not available on the surface. For this reason, the Arabic word Alfalfa means "father of Plants". Alfalfa is rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that play a vital role in the growth of our bones and in the maintenance of a healthy body. It contains protein and vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. It also contains calcium, potassium, carotene, iron, and zinc. It can be taken in the form of seeds, leaves or tablets.

source: HomeRemediesWeb.com

Peppermint

Inhaling Peppermint oil perks up our energy levels by increasing cognitive activity. In one study of athletes on the treadmill, participants reported better workload and performance levels when they inhaled peppermint versus jasmine. Other studies confirm anecdotal reports that peppermint makes us fell less sleepy and improves our ability to do administrative tasks like typing, analyzing data, and alphabetizing. Keep a bottle by your desk or in your gym bag for a quick whiff now and then. Or use a diffuser to scent your office or workout space for longer periods of time.

source: The Herb Quarterly Spring 2010

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is well-known for it's relaxing properties when inhaled. Clinical research supports its reputation for calming the nervous system, improving mood, and enhancing sleepiness.

source. The Herb Quarterly Spring 2010

Coconut Oatmeal Elbow Cream

Rough, dry elbows can make arms seem a little worse for wear, and may even feel uncomfortable. This gentle exfoliating cream gets those joints looking their best. It also works well for removing rough, dry skin from knees and feet.

2 Tbls coconut oil
1 tsp vitamin e oil
2 Tbls ground oatmeal

Mix together all ingredients and stir well. Spoon into a clean container. Rub a small amount into your elbows and leave on for 15 minutes. Tissue off and massage more coconut oil or your favorite cream into your skin. Makes 2 ounces.

source: The Herb Quarterly Spring 2010

How to do Ear Candling

Ear Candling is an old home remedy said to clear out excess ear wax and debris in your ear. Home remedy reports have stated that ear candling can help increase hearing ability, clear sinuses and rid the ear of harmful bacteria.

1) Lay on your side with a pillow under your head. Have the person performing the ear candling lay a dishtowel over your hair and around your shoulder.
2) Take the paper plate and place a small hole in it. Place the plate with the hole over your ear. Put the tapered end of the candle into the hole in the plate and into the ear canal. Be sure that the candle is in a vertical position.
3) Light the large end of the candle with a lighter. Make sure that no smoke will escape.
4) Let the candle burn until it has reached about 2 inches from your ear. Do not let it burn any shorter, so that you will prevent yourself from getting burned. Have the person performing the ear candling extinguish the candle by putting into a bowl of water. Do not blow it out.
5)Repeat Steps 1 through 5 for the other ear.

Green Tea May Cut Risk Of Dying

Drinking green tea continues to show health benefits particularly among women. A recent study conducted in Japanese women demonstrated drinking five or more cups of green tea a day cut the risk of dying from pneumonia by 47%. Drinking as little as one cup or less of green tea a day was associated with 41% less risk of dying from pneumonia.
This study followed over 19,000 men and 21,000 women average age 40-79 over the course of 12 years. The benefits of green tea and reducing pneumonia risk were clearly identified. These findings were reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
These findings supported the possibility that green tea contains compounds capable of destroying and inhibiting the growth of viruses and microorganisms. This study becomes one more of many that show the benefits of green tea. For many individuals, drinking green tea is not as convenient an option as taking green tea extract in pill form.

Source: Institute of Healthy Living February 3, 2010

How To Make A Poultice

Poultices, can easily be made by pouring a small amount of boiling water over herbs and steeping them for a few minutes to release their healing properties. Strain the warm herbs, fold them in gauze or thin cloth and place them on the affected area. Powdered herbs do not need to be steeped. Simply make the powder into a paste with hot water and apply in a cloth.

Instructions for Castor Oil Packs

You will need:

4 Pieces of Wool Flannel

Plastic Sheet

Electrical Heating Pad

Towel

1. Soak the wool flannel in castor oil, until thoroughly saturated, but not dripping with oil.
2. Apply the four layers of wool flannel to the area of the body that needs treatment.
3. Cover the flannel with a plastic sheet, or large plastic bag.
4. Place the heating pad on top of the plastic sheet and keep the heat on low at first, gradually turning it up to medium.
5. Do not have the heat so high that it will burn the skin.
6. Finally wrap a bath towel over the treated area to keep the heat in.

The pack can stay in place from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, and the skin can be cleansed with a solution of baking soda and water. The amount used is two teaspoons to a quart of warm water. The Flannel pack can be used up to 50 times. Each person should have their own pack. Keep in a plastic container in the fridge. The pack should be warmed up before application. So, Relax and Enjoy.

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How To Make A Cup Of Green Tea

1. Heat water: Use an 8oz cup of water for each cup of tea. Just before water reaches a rolling boil, remove from heat.
2. Add green tea: Use 1 teaspoon for each cup of water. Stir into water, or use a bamboo tea strainer or teabag.
3. Steep: Cover for 3 - 5 minutes per cup of water. No more than 3 minutes for white or green teas.

How To Make A Cup Of Herbal Tea

1. Boil water: Use one 8oz cup of water for each cup of tea. When water reaches a rolling boil, remove from heat.
2. Add herbs: Use 2 teaspoons herb for each cup water. Stir herbs into water or use a teaball or teabag.
3. Steep: Cover for 15 - 25 minutes per cup of water. When using bark or roots simmer for 10 minutes instead of steeping.