For generations, families relied on natural remedies for healing and wellness. While modern medicine shifted that focus, rising medication costs and concerns about side effects have sparked a resurgence in natural health approaches. It’s a return to nature’s pharmacy.
Remember when a warm mustard pack eased chest congestion, or a steeped tea bag soothed pink eye? Perhaps a clove of garlic for earaches, or a chaparral and olive oil mix for itchy skin? These time-honored practices reflect an era when resourcefulness and natural knowledge were paramount.
In times past, geographical distances, limited financial resources, and restricted access to medical professionals meant women were not only caregivers but also healers. Folklore, herbal medicine, and cherished “family secrets” were carefully guarded and passed down through generations.
While not all traditional remedies were effective, with superstition sometimes blending with practical applications, skepticism gradually overshadowed natural healing. Practices resembling witch doctoring, such as hanging tear-shaped herbs to aid teething, or using tea leaf readings, cast doubt on the genuine potential of herbal medicine.
Today, some practitioners dismiss herbal medicine as mere “old wives’ tales.” However, a growing number of conventional medical professionals are recognizing the value of natural remedies in maintaining health and treating specific conditions – a wisdom our grandmothers knew all along. After all, like plants, we are organic beings. Many synthetic drugs are designed to mimic these natural compounds.
Early humans learned about herbal medicine through observing wildlife. Animals instinctively used snakeroot after snake bites, rolled in mud to heal wounds, or sought sunlight to relieve joint pain. This observation led to the discovery of the medicinal properties found in nature.
Animals intuitively follow nature’s health plan. Humans have deviated, creating synthetic remedies that are often less effective, more expensive, and burdened with side effects. Embracing nature, rather than fighting against it, can enhance our health, reduce disease risk, and improve our well-being.
A wealth of healing resources surrounds us. Burdock, a common “weed,” exemplifies this potential. Often found among corn and wheat crops, burdock is frequently overlooked. However, its root offers remarkable health benefits, especially for skin conditions.
Burdock is a potent blood purifier and an effective treatment for chronic skin issues like eczema, acne, psoriasis, boils, and canker sores. To make a medicinal tea, simmer 4 teaspoons of dried burdock root in 1 quart of water for 7 minutes, then steep for 2 hours. Drink at least 2 cups daily on an empty stomach. This tea can also be used topically to wash affected areas.
Combining burdock root with catnip creates a tea effective against kidney and gallstones. Simmer 2 tablespoons of burdock root in 4 cups of water for 10 minutes, then steep 3 teaspoons of catnip leaf for 1.5 hours. Strain, add lemon juice and maple syrup to taste, and drink slowly, followed by a tablespoon of olive oil. Repeat this regimen three times daily, avoiding greasy foods, soft drinks, refined carbohydrates, red meat, and poultry during treatment.
John Heinerman, a medical anthropologist, suggests taking the final cup of tea and olive oil at night, sleeping on the right side with a pillow under the armpit to aid stone expulsion.
Burdock root powder, combined with red clover and dandelion root in gel capsules, can help clear acne and blemishes. Take two capsules daily.
Red clover complements burdock in treating skin problems and is also known as an alternative cancer treatment and natural blood thinner. Dandelion root, rich in insulin, is a good sugar substitute for diabetics, according to Dr. David Potterton.
Many herbs offer medicinal benefits. Elderflower infusion makes a mild astringent for eye baths, while chamomile is excellent for eye compresses. Garlic is a natural antibiotic, and cayenne aids circulation. Many culinary herbs are both flavorful and medicinal.
Fruits and vegetables also offer health benefits. Celery juice is a natural diuretic. Cabbage helps fight ulcers. Radishes aid liver and gallbladder ailments, and spinach improves blood hemoglobin. Beets benefit the liver and blood.
While beneficial, natural remedies should not be used alongside prescription drugs without a doctor’s advice. For instance, grapefruit can lower cholesterol, but it interacts negatively with certain cholesterol medications. Always be aware of the benefits and cautions of natural remedies. Like any medication, misuse can be harmful. Mixing natural and synthetic medications should only be done under medical supervision.
Instead of opposing nature, we can embrace its gifts. The health laws that apply to animals also apply to us. By learning from nature and integrating natural approaches, we can enhance our health and longevity.