Jul 112008
 

Via: Best Syndication

Acne can erupt anytime and anywhere. It is a mysterious skin disorder and as yet has no definitive singular cause. Because of this, several remedies are put forward by medical experts and alternative health practitioners, which unfortunately works only on a case-to-case basis. The most that they do is heal the most basic symptoms and not the root cause, often resulting to several sporadic acne eruptions. Mostly, over-the-counter products are very expensive. They also tend to be very harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils. Some people, in their desire to use only the most organic products turn to natural remedies to help cure acne.

Like any kind of medical product, natural remedies should be used in the proper dosages and prepared properly in the method that can extract helpful nutrients. There are several herbs, fruits and vegetables that contain properties suitable for getting rid of acne. Here are some of them:

1. Orange
Oranges are not only used for refreshing drinks but also as a remedy for acne. It can help with blood circulation and the fresh rind, when rubbed on the face can help dry out pustules and pimples. Use once or twice a day preferably before going to bed and Rub on face gently.

2. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a known astringent. It is also used as a cooling disinfectant to remove bacteria. A paste or ointment can be made from sandalwood to be applied on acne. Cut the herb (especially the wood) into very tiny pieces. Boil and strain while hot and add a hardener or base, usually coconut fat, coconut butter or almond oil. Stir slowly. After the mixture cools down, apply on pimples on the face and leave overnight.

3. Coriander
A popular Chinese herb used for garnishing and adding taste to dishes, coriander is also used to help ease acne. The plant can be infused and used after washing your face. You can pour boiling water over the whole plant and leave to infuse the properties of the herb into the water. Use the cooled infused water for washing your face at least once a day.

4. Fenugreek
The seeds of the fenugreek are a good natural remedy for skin irritations, including acne. For better use of the herb, poultices can be made out of fenugreek. Gather enough seeds for pounding and macerating the seeds. A mortar and pestle can be perfect for this job. You can apply the poultice directly on to the pustules and pimples or use a clean cloth for cold poultices. This can effectively cool down the swollen or inflamed areas of the face, shoulder or back.

5. Burdock
Burdock is a biennial plant that can be found along the roadside. It is a fairly common plant with fleshy roots and purple flowers. A decoction of the leaves can be a great help in cases of acne. Decoction is the best method to bring out the healthful properties by gently simmering of the herb for not less than thirty minutes. Strain the leaves after simmering. The extract can then be used on the face by gently blotting the affected areas with cotton or cloth.

Jun 122008
 

Via: MailTribune.com

Cultivating a tea garden makes a very fresh brew
AP
Staff and wire reports
June 11, 2008

A cup of tea at breakfast or over lunch is one of life’s simple indulgences. It’s even more special — and not much more difficult — if you grow the herbs yourself.

“Tea is one of my favorite ways to use herbs,” says Ellen Scannell, a master gardener and food preserver certified by Oregon State University.

Many of the best tea herbs are easy to grow, beautiful and naturally resistant to pests. Even if you don’t have garden space, many delightful tea herbs will grow in containers on a porch or windowsill.

“Mint is the classic one,” Scannell says.

Consider mint species with other subtle flavors including apple, pineapple, chocolate, orange, ginger and lemon. Scannell also favors lemon verbena. Daisy-like chamomiles can cheer up any garden and make a soothing tea.

Once you’ve chosen your herbs, it’s easy to harvest, dry, store and brew.

Here is how: