thyme

Thyme is a “natural antibiotic” much like cinnamon or garlic.  With the flu season approaching fast, as well as the threat of swine flu, keeping a decent stock of dried thyme as well as the following recipes handy is well advised.

If fresh thyme is available, use it first.  If no fresh thyme is available, use the CUT dried herb: 2bsp of the dried herb equals 1 handful of fresh thyme.

Any of the following solutions can be used to bath wounds and burns or as an eye wash for red, irritated eyes. Make sure the solution is moderately cool before applying it to the eyes.

• Tea for gargling (sore throat), mouth wash (tooth decay, cold sores) and drinking (common cold, influenza, fever, allergies) :
  Boil 1 3/4 pints of water, remove from heat, add a dozen sprigs of fresh thyme, cover, let steep for half an hour.  Strain and drink 3-4 cups daily.
• For external purposes such as hot compresses on the chest to help break up lung congestion (in cases of asthma, bronchitis, cold or flu) or massage lotions for aching muscles and joints:
  Boil 2 pints of water,remove from heat,  add 1.5 handfuls of fresh thyme, cover and let steep for 40 minutes.  Strain and use.
• For foot- and hand baths (to increase blood circulation, get rid of nail fungus or athlete’s foot, reduce fever) and a douche (against yeast infection):
  Boil 1 1/4 pints of water, remove from heat, add1 handful of fresh thyme, let steep for 25 minutes.  Strain and use somewhat hot for hand and foot baths, but let cool to lukewarm for a douche.

Via: Detroit Holistic Health Examiner

Try some preventative and natural remedies to cure spring allergies this year. Spring is often the kick off to beginning allergy season for many people. While there are many over the counter and prescription medications to control allergy symptoms, there are many natural cures that can effectively and safely cure spring allergies.

* It’s important to check the pollen count every day so you can take preventative action. If the pollen count is high, it’s probably not the best day to do yard work. Plan your activities around the pollen count whenever possible.
* Pollen counts are highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so try to remain indoors as much as possible during that time of morning.
* Keep windows closed during spring allergy season to keep pollen from blowing into your house. Don’t hang dry your clothing outside, and change your sheets as often as possible.
* Shower and change your clothes when you return home after being outside. Pollen can rub off your clothing and cling to furniture and carpeting, so throw your clothing into the washing machine as soon as possible.
* Run your air conditioner and air filters to absorb the pollen from the air in your home. Don’t use window or attic fans, which can bring more pollen into the home.
* Take natural supplements to strengthen your immunity. MSM has antiallergic properties which can be more effective than antihistamines. Look for natural anti-allergy supplements which are a combination of herbs, enzymes, and nutrients which are designed to fight acute allergy attacks.
* Avoid mucus producing foods such as dairy products. Also avoid sugar, wheat and white rice.

If you are an allergy sufferer, consider trying a few preventative measures and natural remedies to control, or possibly cure, your spring allergies. Besides feeling better, you can also avoid the worries of taking over the counter or prescription medications and the side effects those medications can bring.