Go back to previous topic
Forum nameOkay Activist Archives
Topic subjectNatural substitutes
Topic URLhttp://board.okayplayer.com/okp.php?az=show_topic&forum=22&topic_id=6999
6999, Natural substitutes
Posted by Evol, Sun Sep-15-02 07:48 AM
I'm interested about natural/herbal substitutes for the following items:

toothpaste
breath freshener
shampoo
hair oil (i've heard the coconut oil works well...does it?)
cologne

room air freshener (like popouri (sp?))

tylenol (or other headache medicine)
caffeine stimulants (to keep you awake)

feel free to add more to the list...


7000, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by KOONTZILLA, Sun Sep-15-02 09:00 AM
I DON'T KNOW ANY, BUT I SURE WOLUD LIKE TO FIND OUT ... WHERE ARE THE REPLIES WHEN YOU WANT EM .....
7001, Lavender,
Posted by Archaic, Sun Sep-15-02 09:06 AM
lavender, and more lavender.
7002, for what?
Posted by Evol, Sun Sep-15-02 12:28 PM
or are you saying lavender the ultimate multipurpose plant?
7003, RE: its good
Posted by Sunday, Thu Oct-17-02 05:03 AM
for sleeping. take a bath with lavender oil before bed and shit like that... my mom uses it to help her get to sleep.
7004, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by organix, Sun Sep-15-02 09:16 AM
for soap or shampoo, try lemon or orange juice.
for toothpaste, use tea tree oil, or baking soda and water.
for air freshening, steam fresh picked herbs.


7005, also...
Posted by Evol, Sun Sep-15-02 12:30 PM
if possible, an inclusion of why/how these substances work and why they are preferable over those that are being substituted, would be appreciated.
7006, RE: also...
Posted by allison, Sun Sep-15-02 12:49 PM
>lavender the ultimate multipurpose plant


lavender enhances cell rejuvenation, antiseptic in use against acne, helps with fluid retention and cellulite, a nerve tonic, sedative, deodorant. It can be used in the form of lavender oil, for aromatherapy massage, in your bath as well as fresh in the form of lavender herbal tea.
Some of Lavender's herbal attributes and herbal healing qualities include:

headache,
depression,
insomnia,
anxiety,
chest ailments, and even
wound washing .

It is also excellent for improving hair and skin condition and for relieving muscle tension.

It is anti-spasmodic, a tonic for the nervous system, antibacterial and antiseptic.

The herb forms a wide base of medicinal, therapeutic and cosmetic uses.

This is an effective herb for headaches, especially when they are related to stress. As a gentle-strengthening tonic to the nervous system it may be used in states of nervous debility and exhaustion





7007, dayum
Posted by Evol, Sun Sep-15-02 04:31 PM
and here i thought it just smelled nice.
7008, also replaces mothballs
Posted by Gyrofrog, Mon Sep-30-02 09:00 AM
smells nicer and non-toxic
7009, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by foxnesn, Sun Sep-15-02 01:12 PM
isnt caffeine natural? if it isnt try sugar.
7010, if your going to do sugar make sure its RAW
Posted by allison, Sun Sep-15-02 01:37 PM
Native Peruvians have used Maca since before the time of the Incas, for both its nutritional and adaptogenic properties. MACA is an "adaptogen," restoring balance (homeostasis) to the body. Adaptogens are used to improve the overall adaptability of the whole body. Other adaptogen herbs are ginseng and astragalus. MACA has been used traditionally to increase energy and to promote improvement in both stamina and endurance in athletes. The steady enhancement of both physical and mental energy makes MACA an ideal supplement for students, professionals, writers, athletes and anyone who needs a lift without increasing nervousness.

7011, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by guerilla_love, Mon Sep-16-02 01:45 AM
>toothpaste

maybe baking soda? baking soda is a great deoderant, too

>breath freshener

chew an apple or a carrot

>hair oil (i've heard the coconut oil works well...does it?)

i've heard wonderful things about coconut oil too

>cologne

essential oils, if you're not allergic

>room air freshener (like popouri (sp?))

burn dry orange peels (under supervision) or put limes in your disposal if u have one

>tylenol (or other headache medicine)

take a nap

>caffeine stimulants (to keep you awake)

yoga or other exercise- yoga's good because one pose can be enuf to rejuvinate u and only takes a minute or 2 (less time than making coffee or filling ur cup), plus u don't cycle down later
7012, A friend also told me
Posted by Cendeco, Mon Oct-07-02 03:39 PM
squeezed lime juice is a replacement for deodarant as well
7013, there's a whole line of natural oral hygiene products
Posted by LexM, Mon Sep-16-02 08:06 AM
it's called "tom's" or something like that...

i don't how completely "natural" they are, but lots of folks use them as a substitute to crest & other things.

hydrogen peroxide/baking soda/etc can be used for mouthwashes...

do those deodorant crystals work?


_____________________________
eff a war on iraq....

"Looking at the relationship between the state of the economy and the European tradition of bringing itself out of economic hardship by civil or international war, you have to decide what is the necessary and probable outcome of this rapid and significant "sucking-up" of wealth into the hands of the few, the proud, the European elite. ...War is highly profitable and helpful to this economy in many ways, from reducing unemployment rates by getting those without jobs to the sacrificial front lines to providing business for those supplying everything from yellow ribbons to land mines to body bags." ~Larry D. Crawford



"An attack on Iraq will have nothing to do with stopping terrorism. It will have nothing to do with the liberation of the Iraqi people. And it will be only marginally concerned with weapons of mass destruction. Instead, this will be a war to extend and deepen U.S. control over the energy-rich Middle East, the single most important source of strategic power in an industrial world that runs on oil." ~Robert Jensen

billions of blue blistering barnacles...http://www.mnftiu.cc/mnftiu.cc/war12.html
7014, i don't like tom's
Posted by guerilla_love, Mon Sep-16-02 08:08 AM
but i'm a sucker for burts bees anything and jason-naturals toothpaste (i *love* that toothpaste)

tom's never seemed to be particularly good

the cool thing about burts bees is the ingredients listings. check them out.
7015, ever used jason's shampoo
Posted by the2ndsurvivor, Thu Oct-17-02 01:07 AM
they sell it at my grocery store and i'm thinking of buying some
7016, my 2 c on shampoo
Posted by guerilla_love, Thu Oct-17-02 01:47 AM
stick with their incredible toothpaste and head toward the nature's gate tea tree oil shampoo

after you apply it, wait a bit, soap up, whatever- you'll feel the most awesome little tingling sensation on your head

and it's fairly moisturizing
7017, Yes
Posted by ya Setshego, Tue Sep-24-02 09:22 AM
but not all day, so it's good to carry patchouli around once it starts to wear off. Patchouli makes a great natural deodorant, if the skin is not too sensitive towards it.


>do those deodorant crystals work?
>"Looking at the relationship between the state of the
>economy and the European tradition of bringing itself out of
>economic hardship by civil or international war, you have to
>decide what is the necessary and probable outcome of this
>rapid and significant "sucking-up" of wealth into the hands
>of the few, the proud, the European elite. ...War is highly
>profitable and helpful to this economy in many ways, from
>reducing unemployment rates by getting those without jobs to
>the sacrificial front lines to providing business for those
>supplying everything from yellow ribbons to land mines to
>body bags." ~Larry D. Crawford
>
>
>
>"An attack on Iraq will have nothing to do with stopping
>terrorism. It will have nothing to do with the liberation of
>the Iraqi people. And it will be only marginally concerned
>with weapons of mass destruction. Instead, this will be a
>war to extend and deepen U.S. control over the energy-rich
>Middle East, the single most important source of strategic
>power in an industrial world that runs on oil." ~Robert
>Jensen
>
>billions of blue blistering
>barnacles...http://www.mnftiu.cc/mnftiu.cc/war12.html

7018, laxitives? n/m
Posted by Evol, Mon Sep-16-02 04:39 PM

7019, RE: laxitives? n/m
Posted by guerilla_love, Wed Sep-18-02 12:43 AM
first: always drink a lot of water- then u won't have trouble to begin with....


prune juice
cascara sagrada
7020, good lookin on the cascara sagrada,
Posted by Evol, Wed Sep-18-02 04:26 AM
it is available at any health food store?

btw, here's an article i found:

Over 4 million Americans this year will suffer from constipation.1 There are many causes of chronic constipation, among them: diet, low levels of physical activity, drugs (OTC and prescription), low potassium levels, pregnancy, diabetes, chronic enema use, and others. Most chronic constipation can be alleviated by simply adding bran or prunes to the diet. Adding 1/2 cup of bran and increasing to 1 1/2 cups over two weeks time should resolve the problem. Eight ounces of prune juice should also do the trick. If you choose to add bran, be sure to consume large amounts of water.

If this doesn't help and you have tried a bulking laxative, cascara sagrada provides a temporary solution. DO NOT USE ANY STIMULATING LAXATIVE FOR MORE THAN 10-14 DAYS! If you have been using stimulating laxatives you may need to retrain your bowels. Here's how:
eat a high fiber diet
drink LOTS of water
sit on the toilet everyday at the same time, regardless of urge or absence of urge to defecate--morning is best
never repress the urge to have a bowel movement
get some exercise every day
for one week take just enough cascara sagrada at night to ensure a bowel movement in the morning
after one week, taper the dose by half each week until it is no longer needed
don't do it again, mister!
7021, not so good lookin
Posted by guerilla_love, Fri Oct-04-02 06:16 AM
for nursing moms anyway

we were very sick for two days

yes, i bought it at a health store & made this wretched tea with it mixed with green tea leaves and squeezed with lime

ugh

but oh god did it work
7022, that reminds me of
Posted by Evol, Fri Oct-04-02 06:22 AM
when i took a sea-salt+water concoction during my juice fast.

for 3 or 4 hours, i felt horribly weak & nauseous, and was rolled over because of the sharp stomach pains.

but damn, i EMPTIED myself out that day.
7023, this whole
Posted by guerilla_love, Fri Oct-04-02 06:29 AM
radical emptying thing is very new to me

it's very interesting, huh?

what an adventure!
7024, definitely interesting
Posted by Evol, Tue Oct-22-02 07:12 AM
but is it really supposed to hurt that much?

like i said before, when i took the seasalt+water drink, i was hunched over in pain and became so weak that i actually had to sit down in the shower.

and when i tried the 'firey sword', which is prolly 10 times worse than the sea salt cleanser, i IMMEDIATELY ran over to the washroom, and sat on the floor--thinking i'd either puke, faint, or completely fry the inside of my body. i imagine the process was similar to how Drain-O works--strong corrosion to clean the tubes.




7025, i couldn't imagine
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Oct-22-02 07:16 AM
something like that being good for the body.............

what do you think?
7026, i'm not sure
Posted by Evol, Tue Oct-22-02 03:27 PM
i'll admit, i tried the two cleansing drinks based on info i got on Activist. i had only read of both drinks tasting nasty and the subsequent nausea produced as a result of the taste. I never EVER got the impression it was painful.

at first, i thought that maybe the pain was a result of the fact that this cleansing process was such a drastic change from a lifetime of poor nutritional habits.

and, i was going to the bathroom like every 10 minutes, releasing mostly liquidy & pebbly fecal matter.

so the process obviously worked.

but damn, it was rough...
7027, i tried a few
Posted by guerilla_love, Wed Oct-23-02 01:49 AM
things, like cascara sagrada, that i learned about here

the cascara sagrada made me sick for 24 hours before working (i think i mentioned that already in this thread)

i donno

i think really it's better to just eat well, exercise, drink tons of water every day, and stay your normal regular-

i think some people ate poorly and used these cleansers as an easy way out to a clean system. vegan doesn't mean healthy eater, and these cleaners don't make a healthy person.

but everyone has their own views of health. personally, i think health is an everyday effort. a way of life. so i'm biased against radical adjustments.
7028, prunes...
Posted by morpheme, Sun Sep-29-02 07:31 AM
eat lots of ruffage {green leafy veggies}
& make sure ur water consumption is on point



questions/aRchivals/questionable archives:inbox
_______________________________

¤"o man the bitches...the bitches can't get enuff of this shit, man...i get my jane waxed E-VE-RY-DAY"¤


7029, licorice tea
Posted by GirlChild, Fri Oct-04-02 05:52 AM
.
7030, RE: laxitives? n/m
Posted by Cendeco, Mon Oct-07-02 03:47 PM
aloe vera juice

You don't have to buy the gallon, just go to a market and get an aloe vera leaf(about two dollars), cut 1 inch slices and sit them in a gallon of water overnight. i try to drink a cup a day.
7031, indigestion relief? n/m
Posted by Evol, Mon Sep-16-02 04:40 PM

7032, ginger
Posted by LexM, Tue Sep-17-02 01:24 AM
run some fresh ginger root thru a juicer

mix it w/ some water (not too much), drink it straight (if you can stand it), or your favorite juice/tea & drink up

there are also several strong ginger teas available. try yogi tea or tazo

_____________________________
eff a war on iraq....

"Looking at the relationship between the state of the economy and the European tradition of bringing itself out of economic hardship by civil or international war, you have to decide what is the necessary and probable outcome of this rapid and significant "sucking-up" of wealth into the hands of the few, the proud, the European elite. ...War is highly profitable and helpful to this economy in many ways, from reducing unemployment rates by getting those without jobs to the sacrificial front lines to providing business for those supplying everything from yellow ribbons to land mines to body bags." ~Larry D. Crawford



"An attack on Iraq will have nothing to do with stopping terrorism. It will have nothing to do with the liberation of the Iraqi people. And it will be only marginally concerned with weapons of mass destruction. Instead, this will be a war to extend and deepen U.S. control over the energy-rich Middle East, the single most important source of strategic power in an industrial world that runs on oil." ~Robert Jensen


7033, actually,
Posted by Evol, Tue Sep-17-02 09:48 AM
my dad makes this drink he calls 'tanga weezy', which is basically ginger tea sweetened with honey. it's REALLY good.

i had no idea it aided in indigestion, though.
7034, bacon soda & water
Posted by morpheme, Sun Sep-29-02 07:32 AM

7035, check the post "a site I think we can all benefit from"
Posted by FireBrand, Wed Sep-18-02 04:28 AM
-------------
avatar?
Holla at playa when ya see me in the streets...YEAH.

"men socialize by competing, women by sharing weakness." Bruce Fleming, Village Voice

"Well, when your every breath and will to live is an act of resistance, you cannot help but be 'too political'. To do otherwise is to hide, to live in denial and defeat." --ArabHottie

" If we can't learn to live together despite the turmoil of past generations we are doomed." -Stern


"And where today is the stable community that would sustain such a couple, where one can be both poor and diginified and raise one's children with decency and hope... If the answer is education, does our society adequateley provide that tool of self-improvement to the less well off?"-- Sidney Poitier

" I'm not mad 'cus I'm losing! I'm mad 'cus I don't know how to win!" --Kevin Curtis Daniels Jr.

"And herein lies the tragedy of the age: not that men are poor,-all men know something of poverty; not that men are wicked,-who is good? Not that men are ignorant, -what is Truth? Nay, but that men know so little of men."
W.E.B. Dubois


7036, up
Posted by guerilla_love, Fri Sep-20-02 07:47 AM
.
7037, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by idealist, Mon Sep-23-02 03:47 PM
i think coconut oil smells, try going to an indian grocery store and get "amla hair oil"
7038, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by Evol, Tue Sep-24-02 07:45 AM
>i think coconut oil smells, try going to an indian grocery
>store and get "amla hair oil"

is that the green stuff (my mom makes amla chutnee)?

what, other than smell, differs than coconut oil in terms of its effectiveness?
7039, olive oil
Posted by Cendeco, Mon Oct-07-02 03:49 PM
n/m
7040, anyone heard of haley's hints?
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Sep-24-02 07:11 AM
.
7041, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by BlakStaar, Tue Sep-24-02 09:14 AM

Try
Tom's of Maine for
-toothpaste
(found at Health food stores)
Carol's Daughter
- hair products (for black hair)
- body products
(carolsdaughter.com, or at the shop in Brooklyn, or by ordering from the catalog which you can request for on the site)

Everything else you listed, try the health food stores, go in the section where there is vitamins,hair/body products,etc.
Some other brands that may interest you are Jason's Cosmetics and Burts Bee's (which I've never tried).



7042, sugar substitute
Posted by afropuff, Tue Sep-24-02 09:22 AM
Stevia, a naturally sweet plant. I use it in coffee, tea, cereal, etc.
7043, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by Evol, Sun Sep-29-02 03:43 AM
.
7044, by far no expert but...
Posted by morpheme, Sun Sep-29-02 07:40 AM
>toothpaste
•make a paste w/baking soda & water...can be applied w/a toothbrush or a soft cloth {as a scrub}...some ppl have been known to use salt too, but i'm not too keen on that one as a daily practice
•hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse...it's a whitener

>breath freshener
•parsley...eat that little green plant on ur plate
•peppermint oil on the tongue
•ginger root...nibblin a bit on it

>shampoo
•rosemary/herbal rinses...not sure which herbs {i'm thinkin of lavender as well}...but u'd make a pultice w/them, puttin them in cheese cloth or a small mesh pouch & steepin them in hot water, lettin it cool then rinsin the hair w/it
•lemon juice has cleansin properties but also remember it's a natural lightener as well

>hair oil (i've heard the coconut oil works well...does it?)
can't say...but i do know that if ur natural hair is brushed {frum the scalp} frequently enuff it will produce natural hair oils

>cologne
heck, anything i'd think

>room air freshener (like popouri (sp?))
what i do when i'm out of scented candles or incense is, i sprinkle some cinnamon in some water & boil it on the stove, addin vanilla is a nice touch too...the scent of cinnamon & vanilla is a "comforting" one {read: homey} & will relax u as well

>tylenol (or other headache medicine)
i'm for massage/pressure & relaxation techniques when it comes to this

>caffeine stimulants (to keep you awake)
no can do




questions/aRchivals/questionable archives:inbox
_______________________________

¤"o man the bitches...the bitches can't get enuff of this shit, man...i get my jane waxed E-VE-RY-DAY"¤


7045, toothaches...
Posted by morpheme, Sun Sep-29-02 07:42 AM
oil of cloves




questions/aRchivals/questionable archives:inbox
_______________________________

¤"o man the bitches...the bitches can't get enuff of this shit, man...i get my jane waxed E-VE-RY-DAY"¤


7046, good ones
Posted by guerilla_love, Mon Sep-30-02 02:12 AM
.
7047, up
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Oct-01-02 02:01 AM
.
7048, jackpot!
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Oct-01-02 07:23 AM
this is what i was looking for

scroll down the page- PLENTY of recipes!

<http://www.suess.20m.com/dharma.html>
7049, jackpot indeed
Posted by Evol, Wed Oct-02-02 03:55 AM
reeeeeeal good looking.

wow. thanks alot.
7050, RE: jackpot!
Posted by Odyssee, Mon Oct-07-02 07:52 AM
has anyone tried the antifungal baby wipes
7051, RE: Natural substitutes
Posted by Evol, Fri Oct-04-02 05:34 AM

7052, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Posted by Odyssee, Fri Oct-04-02 08:09 AM
is very good for hair, body, etc....i've been using it on my hair forever....i like pompoline(?)

i've also started using a concoction by mane & tail...smells really good, but i wont ever get rid of my olive oil

peroxide is good as a mouth wash...and many other things (gets blood stains out), but make sure u dilute it with a water & rinse ur mouth well. not sure if u should use it everyday though
7053, ^
Posted by Evol, Wed Oct-09-02 02:21 PM

7054, great list....
Posted by Evol, Fri Oct-11-02 09:11 AM
let's keep building.
7055, up once more before
Posted by Evol, Tue Oct-15-02 06:34 PM
i request it to be archived
7056, i wish
Posted by guerilla_love, Wed Oct-16-02 01:42 AM
there was more on here

there are an infinite number of natural solutions to problems

with some help (questions included, cuz i can't think of what to put next), we could make this more a more thorough resource
7057, Vinegar = Conditioner
Posted by Gyrofrog, Wed Oct-16-02 06:13 AM
I've been using apple cider vinegar as a hair conditioner.
7058, beer, sand, mayonaise, milkfat
Posted by guerilla_love, Wed Oct-16-02 06:17 AM
but ya gotta have unprocessed milk to have the real fat

are *great* for hair
7059, Sand?
Posted by Kream, Mon Oct-21-02 09:18 AM

hhmm.. Explain, please.
7060, i think it's a softener
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Oct-22-02 03:35 AM
but the difference is amazing
7061, hmm..
Posted by Kream, Tue Oct-22-02 06:33 AM

Interesting..
I think I'll get kicked out of the house if I come home lugging a pail of sand. :)

Seriously, you'd just rub it in the hair?
7062, while it's wet
Posted by guerilla_love, Tue Oct-22-02 06:38 AM
maybe bring in only a cup of it?
7063, RE: Sand?
Posted by Gyrofrog, Tue Oct-22-02 05:29 AM
Sure! I remember "shampooing" with sand frequently when I was about 3. These were quickly followed by a regular shampooing.
;-)
7064, aloe gel and vitamin e gel
Posted by guerilla_love, Wed Oct-16-02 06:18 AM
are great for healing acne
7065, SKINCARE
Posted by Evol, Thu Oct-17-02 12:30 AM
n/m
7066, put
Posted by guerilla_love, Thu Oct-17-02 01:51 AM
an essential oil in a spray bottle with some neutral oil or bath oil or something and spray on instead of using lotion

the less chemicals, the better in skin care

orange and citrus oils are good grease breakers

aloe and vitamin e are good healers, even for acne (i mean, why ya gotta dry yr face out in the first place?)

don't exfoliate every day. that's excessive. seaweed is good for exfoliating.
7067, RE: SKINCARE
Posted by Odyssee, Thu Oct-17-02 08:31 AM
i use aloe vera & vaseline as a facial moisturizer....not too much vaseline though

a few of my staples: aloe vera gel (fruit of earth), dickinson's witch hazel, pompeian extra virgin olive oil, vaseline, cocoa butter, johnson's or baby majic baby bath & dove soap
7068, baby magic
Posted by guerilla_love, Thu Oct-17-02 08:41 AM
i was amazed when i saw how many chemicals tehre are in those baby products! i was using them all the time before i looked at the labels.............

but they do smell great, that's for sure
7069, The Holistic Medicine Cabinet (from Firebrand/moved her
Posted by guerilla_love, Fri Oct-25-02 06:43 AM
link: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Prairie/8088/medcab.html
The Holistic Medicine Cabinet...this shit is long.


The following remedies contain herbs, vegetables, fruits and other natural ingredients and techniques reported to relieve many common ailments. They are a compilation of folk lore, books, magazines, articles, word of mouth and personal experience. The author of this web site is not a doctor and is not prescribing any of the following remedies as a cure for any condition but simply presenting the theories and findings of authors, researchers and naturopathic physicians. The author of this web site is not responsible for any condition or adverse reaction produced by the following remedies. Use any/all at your own discretion and risk.

Check out The Children's Corner at the bottom of
this page for remedies for common childhood conditions.


Anxiety/Stress/Tension
Any of the following herbs may be drunk as a tea or used in capsule form to relieve stress and anxiety:
1) Valerian Root is probably the most effective herb for easing tension and stress, often called "natures Valium".
2) Passionflower (do not take while pregnant)
3) Chamomile
4) Hops
5) Catnip
6) Skullcap
7) St. John's Wort
8) Kava


Appetite Stimulants
Caraway and ginseng are good appetite stimulants. Drink an infusion of either herb 1/2 hour before a meal.


Arthritis
1) Avoid eating foods/using substances in the nightshade family:
Tomatoes
White Potatoes
Eggplant
All peppers except black pepper
Paprika
Tobacco

2) Avoid milk and milk products

3) Feverfew has been used for centuries to relieve arthritis

4) Drink licorice root tea

5) Wear a bracelet made of copper and/or gold

6) Make a salve made of "unpetroleum Jelly" (available at health foods store) and oil of eucalyptus, apply to joints

7) Take willow bark tablets for pain relief

8) Take 1 teaspoon per day of cod liver oil

9) Arthritis Tea: American indians made a tea of rose petals, peppermint, lemon peel, and linden leaves for arthritis.


Bleeding/Swollen Gums/Gingivitis/Pyorrehea
1) Brush teeth with goldenseal herb powder every day for at least one month.

2)Mix:
1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
1/8 tsp salt
1 glass very warm/hot water
Rinse mouth with solution, spit, then rinse again with solution.
Repeat several times a day for about a week.

3)Sage and Thyme Mouthwash
Alleviate swollen gums with a mouthwash brewed from the antiseptic herbs sage and thyme. Use 1 tablespoon each of the fresh herbs per cup of water. Brew in hot water, then strain and cool. Use as a gargle three times daily.

4) Puncture a capsule of liquid vitamin E, rub on rubs to help heal.

5) For bleeding gums, rub with freshly juiced cranberries which contain quinine.

6) Mix:
6 ounces distilled water
2 ounces prickly ash bark
Reduce in volume to 2 ounces by simmering, NOT boiling, over low heat. Strain and add enough table salt to make a very thin paste. Rub mixture, with fingers, on tooth area and gums once daily for 2 days.
Variation: Add a few drops of peppermint oil



Boils
1) Apply tea tree oil full strength
2) Apply a heated slice of tomato, cover tomato with gauze and secure with white first aid tape.
3) Apply a raw sliced onion and secure as above
4) Apply raw mashed garlic and secure as above
5) Apply a warm black tea bag
6) Apply the outer leaves of a head of cabbage, tie on with a length of gauze
7) Apply a poultice of warm milk and bread
8) Apply a poultice of burdock leaves
9) Apply full strength lemon juice to the boil.
10) Secure 1/2 warm baked onion to the boil. Remove center layer of onion to allow onion to sit over boil.
11) Apply a poultice of catnip leaves, plantain leaves or pulverized fenegreek seed to reduce inflamation and speed healing.
12) Add some fresh raw garlic to your diet, or take 3 garlic capsules, 3 times a day.


Breastfeeding
1) To promote the flow of milk, drink an infusion of borage leaves and/or seeds, dill seed, anise and fennel seed 3 times a day.

2) Make an infusion of 1 tsp of dried leaves of goats rue in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes, drink twice a day.

3) Make a decoction of fenegreek seed and drink 3 times a day. Simmer 1/2 tsp seeds in 1 cup water for 10 minutes, add honey to improve taste.


Bronchitis
Sweet Lemon & Brandy Syrup
Mix:
1/2 pint of honey
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 jiggers brandy
1 tsp cayenne pepper
Mix all this up together, refrigerate. Take 1 tablespoon full (when coughing) or once an hour. This mixture heats up the blood vessels in the throat and soothes coughing, the cayenne acting as a blood cleanser.(Courtesy of Sarevadin)

Elecampane Tea
Pour 1 cup of cold water onto 1 teaspoon of shredded elecampane, let it stand for 10 hours; heat, and sip 1 cupful, 3 times a day.

Other herbs and nutrients helpful for bronchitis:
Bronc-Ease herbal formula (available at natural foods stores)
Black Radish extract
Chickweed
Coltsfoot
Echinacea
Eucalyptus
Fenugreek
Ginger
Iceland Moss
Mullein
Myrrh
Pau d'Arco
Slippery Elm Bark
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Wheatgrass Capsules


Bruises
Bathe the bruise with a cool solution of witch hazel.


Burns
1) The aloe vera plant is well known for reducing pain, preventing infection, and promoting the healing of burns. To treat a burn, remove a leaf, slit leaf open, and rub the gel from the leaf on the burn. Alternately, aloe gel may be puchased by the bottle from any health food store.

2) Apply tea tree oil to the burn

3) For minor burns, spread a thin layer of honey on the injured area.

4) Plantain Lotion
Make an ointment from plantain leaves by mixing:
About 1 pint of fresh plantain leaves
1 pint of cream
Cook until thick, being careful not to scorch the cream. Use as an ointment for burns.


Canker Sores
1) Mix:
1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
1/8 tsp salt
1 glass very warm/hot water
Rinse mouth with solution, spit, then rinse again with solution.
Repeat several times a day for about a week.

2) Sage and Thyme Mouthwash
Alleviate painful canker sores with a mouthwash brewed from the antiseptic herbs sage and thyme. Use 1 tablespoon each of the fresh herbs per cup of water. Brew in hot water, cool. Use as a gargle three times daily.

3) Make a strong tea of goldenseal root and use it as a mouthwash, or make a paste of it and apply directly to sore.

4) Apply a wet black tea bag directly on the sore, the tannin in black tea is an excellent pain reliever

5) Apply vitamin E from a capsule directly on the sore several times a day

6) Apply cold-pressed castor oil directly to the sore



Cold Sores
1) Apply a drop of tea tree oil to the sore 3-4 times a day

2) Apply a drop of rubbing alcohol to the sore 3-4 times a day



Colds/Flu/Sore Throat/Fever/Coughs


Constipation
1) Have 3-4 prunes or a 4 ounce glass of prune juice daily

2) Eat an apple

3) To help promote bowel movement use the following:
Cascara Sagrada
Senna

4) An infusion of crushed flax seed helps. Drink 1 cup in the morning and evening.

5) Licorice is a mild and pleasant tasting laxative. Chew on the root or make a decoction of 1 tsp of root in 1 cup water. Take 3 times a day.


Corns/Callouses/Bunions
1) Folk Remedy: Soak 1/2 slice white bread in vinegar. Apply to the corn once in thew morning and once at night, laying the soaked bread on as a poultice. Cover with a waterproof bandage to keep bread moist.

2) Massage for 3-5 minutes with baking soda which has been dampened with spirits of camphor. Repeat every day for 5-10 days. After condition has improved, mix olive oil with and equal amount of tincture of myrrh and massage into the affected areas.


Cysts
Massage with castor oil twice a day. Apply straight cold-pressed castor oil to the cyst or make a hot castor oil compress.


Dandruff
1) Make an Infusion of 1 ounce each of fresh or dried rosemary and sage in 2 cups of water. Let steep for 24 hours, then use daily as a hair rinse.

2) Boil 4 tablespoons dried thyme in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes, strain and cool. Pour half the mixture into hair, massage in, do NOT rinse out. Save remaining mixture for the next day.

3) Heat a few ounces of olive oil on the stove until warm. Wet hair with water then apply warm olive oil to scalp with a brush or cotton ball. Massage in, put on a shower cap, leave oil on for 20 minutes. Then shampoo as usual.



Diarrhea
1) Apple Cider Vinegar Cure
1 glass of room temperature water
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Take 1 teaspoon of the mixture every 5 minutes Make up a second batch and take 2 teaspoons every 5 minutes Make up a third batch and take a sip of it every 15 minutes

2) Blackberry Wine Cure
Adults: Take 1-2 ounces of blackberry wine
Children and babies: Smaller amounts

3) Carrot Soup Remedy
Cook 1 pound of carrots in 5 ounces or more of water until soft. Strain the pulp or blend in blender and add boiled water to make 1 quart. Add 3/4 tsp salt (to correct sodium imbalance in body). Eat samll amounts every half hour.

4) Carob Cure
Add carob powder (St. John's Bread) to a cup of hot water (to taste). Tastes like hot chocolate, kids love it.

5) Garlic Cure
Eat fresh raw, or take capules, powder or tablets

6) European Lemon Cure
Take straight lemon juice!!!!!!!!!! Be sure to rinse out mouth to prevent tooth enamel erosion.

7) Avoid high fiber foods for 1-2 days, eat boiled white rice and bananas

8) Eat about dozen or more blueberries

9) Eat yogurt

10) Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 2 teaspoons of dried goldenseal root, and infuse for 15 minutes: drink 3 times a day. Caution: Do not use during pregnancy.



Earache
1) Eardrops made from a weak infusion of goldenseal soothe earaches. Mullein may also be added to the infusion.

2) Drop oil of mullein, garlic oil, warm olive oil or lobelia extract drops directly into the ear.

3) Folk Remedy: Cut a clove of garlic, rub over and around the ear.


Eyes/Conjunctivitis/Styes
For red sore eyes:
1) Raw potato slices laid on sore eyes reduces heat and redness.
2) Eye Puffiness: Any tea bag (herbal is better, especially eyebright), slightly cooled, placed on the eyes while you rest.

For tired or bloodshot eyes:
1) Soak sterile cotton balls or soft cloth in cold skim milk. Place over eyes for 10 minutes. Rinse face in warm, then cool, water.

For Dark Circles:
To lighten dark circles under your eyes, wrap a grated raw potato in cheesecloth and apply to eyelids for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Conjunctivitis:
Add 1 teaspoon of the eyebright herb to 1 cup of boiling water, allow to cool, strain. With an eyecup, use the solution to rinse the eye.

Styes:
Styes, also called chalazia or chalazionare, are blocked mucus glands in the eylids.

1) Apply hot castor oil compresses

2) A facecloth moistened with hot water should be applied for 15 minutes every 3 to 4 hours. This may be required over a couple of days.

3) Old Chinese Remedy
The easiest way to give warm compresses is with a hot hard boiled egg wrapped in a DRY washcloth. The heat lasts longer than with just a wet warm washcloth.



Foot Problems
Athlete's Foot
1) Apply diluted tea-tree oil several times a day until condition clears.

2) Apply cider vinegar directly to the affected areas.

3) Soak feet daily in a basin of warm water and cider vinegar until condition shows improvement. A few drops of tea tree oil may be added if desired.

4) Soak feet daily for about 1/2 hour in a strong infusion of goldenseal root

5) Soak the feet in a mixture of 2 teaspoons of salt per pint of warm water.

6) Take 1 tablespoon of baking soda, add a little warm water to make a paste. Apply to affected areas. Rinse off and dry well. Finish by dusting feet with cornstarch.

7) Mix 1 ounce of sage, 1 ounce of agrimony and 2 cups of white wine. Simmer in a covered pot for about 20 minutes. Let cool just enough to be comfortable to soak feet in.

Ingrown Toenails:
Make a mixture of baking soda and castor oil. Rub into affected area. Follow with rinse of spirits of camphor.

Plantar Warts on the Feet:
Massage wart with a paste made of castor oil and baking soda



Headaches
Regular Headaches
1) Feverfew has been used for centuries to relieve headaches and prevent migraines
2) White Willow Bark is an excellent pain reliever.
3) Drink a cup of peppermint tea
4) Take a hot bath adding 3 drops of lavender oil to the bathwater
5) Jeanne Rose's Headache Inhaler: In a small vial mix 10 drops lavender oil, 10 drops peppermint oil, 10 drops marjoram oil, 10 drops rose oil, 5 drops clove oil. Inhale when needed to help a headache.

Migraine Headaches
1) Feverfew is effective in preventing migraines
2) Try either a hot or cold compress to constrict or expand blood vessels (see which works for you)

Sinus Headaches
Take 1-2 capsules of stinging nettle herb or make a tea made of the same

Tension Headaches
Use any of the following in tea or capsule form:
Chamomile
Valerian Root
Catnip
Hops
Passionflower
Skullcap



Genital Herpes
The following herbs/supplements are immune system boosters and viral inhibitors reported to aid the body in the suppression of symptoms of the herpes virus for which there is no known cure:
L-lysine (amino acid) 500-1,000 mg daily
Astralgus
Echinacia
Goldenseal
Osha Root
Licorice Root
Myrrh
Red Clover
Garlic



Hiccups
1) Take a deep breath, hold your breathe as long as you can, exhale, repeat procedure as many times as necessary until hiccups are gone

2) Folk Remedy: Put 2 drops of vinegar on a sugar cube, let cube dissolve in your mouth



Immune System Stimulants & Tonics:
The following have anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties:
Echinacea
Astralgus
Goldenseal
Licorice Root
St. John's Wort
Osha Root
Garlic
Red Clover
Dandelion
Pau d'Arco


Insect Repellent
For repelling insects on skin mix the following essential oils:
1 teaspoon pennyroyal
1 teaspoon citronella
1 teaspoon eucalyptus
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 teaspoon tansy
Shake oils in 1 cup of cold-pressed vegetable oil. Store away from heat and light. Use by rubbing a small amount between the palms of your hands, then apply to any exposed skin. Avoid getting any into the eyes. Reapply as necessary. Discontinue if a rash develops.


Insomnia
1) Any of the following is reputed to help insomnia
Valerian Root
Chamomile
Catnip
Hops
Passionflower
Skullcap
St. John's Wort
Kava

2) Warm milk

3) Take a hot bath, followed by a cup of warm milk or any tea made from the above herbs

4) Hops Sleep Pillow: Make a pillow filled with hops herb, many claim this is an excellent sleep inducer


Mental Depression
St. Johns Wort is an excellent aid in overcoming depression, its effects being compared to the currently popular anti-depression drug Prozac. Take one 300 mg capsule of St. John's Wort extract 3 times a day (for a total of 900 mg per day).



Morning Sickness, Nausea & Motion Sickness
1) Drink a cup of cool ginger ale

2) Drink a cup hot pepperment tea

3) Suck on a peppermint hard candy

4) Eat a little cottage cheese

5) Eat some plain yogurt

6) Eat a few crackers

7) Fennel and caraway are useful for nausea and vomiting. Use as a seasoning or make an infusion of the seeds/herb.



Mosquito/Insect Bites
1) First wrap an ice cube in a washcloth, apply to bite to reduce swelling and numb itching. Then, to reduce itching, apply a paste made of baking soda and water. Wash paste off after 15-20 minutes. Repeat ice and baking soda treatment every 3-4 hours until itching stops.

2) Mix table salt with a little water, apply to bite

3) Nana's Mosquite Bite Remedy
With your fingernail press to make an X-mark on the bite, then apply saliva from your mouth to the bite. (My grandmother showed me how to do this when I was a child..............it helps the itching, I never knew why!) Recent scientific research has shown that saliva contains growth factors that stimulate cells to multiply and cover the wound, and also contains nitrates that are broken down by skin bacteria to NO, acting as an antibiotic. . . hmm. . .maybe Nana really had something there!

4) Wash bite thoroughly, apply tea tree oil to fight infection

5) Folk Remedy: Take a pinch of either chewing or cigarette tobacco, moisten, then apply it to the bite and keep it there for several minutes. If desired, secure on with a bandaid/bandage.


Poison Ivy and Oak
1) Jewelweed (Impatiens, Touch-Me-Not) is a popular treatment. Apply the juice of the plant to the rash or simply take the entire plant, roll it into a ball then dab, NOT smear or rub it over area that was exposed to the poision plant.

2) Drip the juice of the milkweed plant onto the rash


Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Evening primrose oil is THE most effective herbal remedy for PMS. Take 2 capsules 3 times a day for a total of 6 capsules a day.
Cramp bark relieves cramping associated with the menstarl cycle
Licorice root helps alleviate PMS symptoms

For breast tenderness, eat plenty of chopped fresh parsley to help the body expel excess water. Caution: Excessive consumption should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

Other helpful herbs include:
Blessed Thistle
Cayenne
Chasteberry
Dandelion
Dong Quai
Kelp
Raspberry Leaves
Sasparilla
Skullcap
Squaw Vine


Scars/Scar Tissue/Stretch Marks
Mix
1 ounce peanut oil
1/2 tsp dissolved lanolin
2 ounces camphorated oil
or
Camphorated oil
Tincture of myrrh
Olive oil
or
Olive oil
Tincture of myrrh


Stomach and Intestinal Problems
Ginger tea, ale or capsules is excellent for nausea, gas and indigestion
Peppermint Tea is good for nausea, gas, stomach ache and bloating
Fennel relieves stomach cramps and gas and aids in digestion
Dill is good for gas and indigestion
Basil is excellent for reducing gas
Cinnamon helps gas, diarrhea, and upset stomach
Catnip tea is effective for bouts of diarrhea
Cayenne has a healing effect on ulcers
Marshmallow root is highly recommended for ulcers and colitis
Angelica aids digestion
Anise seeds aid digestion
Caraway aids digestion
Cardamon aids digestion
Dill aids digestion
Club soda helps indigestion
Avoid soft drinks containing caffeine helps indigestion



Sunburn
1) Apply aloe vera gel

2) Strawberry juice is an excellent sunburn soother

3) Lettuce juice is soothing and cooling to the skin making it a great sunburn remedy

4) Cucumber juice is another excellent sunburn soother

5) For instant sunburn relief, blend 2 tbsps. castor oil, 1 tsp. baking soda and a
pinch of salt. Apply to affected area.

6) Lavender Sunburn Oil
6 Tbsp olive oil
3 Tbsp cider vinegar
1/2 tsp iodine
10 drops lavender oil
Mix all ingredients together and bottle. Apply gently to relieve sunburned skin.


7) Apply apple cider vinegar



Toothaches
1) Rub some oil of cloves into the gums

2) Stir 1 teaspoon of salt into an 8 oz glass of water. Swish water around in the mouth for about a minute, spit out salt water.

3) Swish whiskey around the sore tooth

4) Chew on or hold a piece of ice on/around the sore tooth to numb the pain.

5) Put a piece of a garlic clove inside the cavity or between the bad tooth and your cheek. It kills the pain and guards against infection.

6) Add 2 teaspoons of red sage leaves to 2 cups of water, bring to boil, steep, covered, for 15 minutes. Gargle with the warm solution several times a day.

7) Mix:
6 ounces distilled water
2 ounces prickly ash bark
Reduce in volume to 2 ounces by simmering, NOT boiling, over low heat. Strain and add enough table salt to make a very thin paste. Rub mixture, with fingers, on tooth area and gums once daily for 2 days.
Variation: Add a few drops of peppermint oil



Warts/Moles
1) Apply dandelion juice to heal warts.

2) Apply castor oil directly on the wart, cover with a bandage

3) Apply liquid vitamin A from a capsule directly on the wart

4) Apply liquid vitamin E from a capsule directly on the wart

5) Make a paste of castor oil and baking soda, apply to wart and cover with a bandage.

6) Apply crushed fresh garlic clove directly on the wart, cover with a bandage

7) Apply oil of cloves to the wart

8) Apply aloe vera gel to the wart

9) Apply milkweed juice to heal warts

10) Rub warts with a piece of raw potato

11) Apply oil of thuja (white cedar) to the wart

12) Extract the juice from the stems, leaves and head of the dandelion plant, apply juice to the wart

13) Apply spirits of camphor to the wart to make it dry up and fall off.

14) Plantain Lotion
Make an ointment from plantain leaves by mixing:
About 1 pint of fresh plantain leaves
1 pint of cream
Cook until thick, being careful not to scorch the cream. Use as an ointment to cure warts.

15) Moles
To remove a mole, massage with a paste made of castor oil and baking soda


Wounds/Cuts/Scrapes
1) Use comfrey leaves as a poultice for wounds and other skin abrasions.

2) Apply tea tree oil to the wound to fight infection and speed healing.

3) Wash cut/scrape thoroughly then apply a dab of honey and a bandage.

4) Apply a bit of your own saliva to the cut/scrape.Saliva contains growth factors that stimulate cells to multiply and cover the wound, and also contains nitrates that are broken down by skin bacteria to NO, acting as an antibiotic.



The Childrens Corner


Colic
Dill: Give 1 teaspoon of dill water before feeding if distress is anticipated. To relieve colic, give 1 teaspon as needed.


Diaper Rash
1) Expose sore areas with fresh air frequently whenever convenient (remove diaper, put a waterproof pad under baby to protect bedding while diaper is off).

2) Apply a cool compress of calendual or chamomile infusion to sore areas for short periods.

3) Buy or make a lotion or ointment that contains calendula, comfrey or marsh mallow herb to soothe the skin and speed healing.

4) Make a dusting powder of:
1 part white clay
1 part volcanic mineral ash
1 part slippery elm powder
1/2 part finely powdered myrrh


Head Lice
(This formula developed by Maggie Tisserand author of Aromatherapy for Women)
25 drops rosemary oil
25 drops lavender oil<
13 drops geranium oil
12 drops eucalyptus oil
1/3 cup cold-pressed vegetable oil
Combine all. Divide hair into small sections, saturate each section from roots to ends of hair. All areas of hair and scalp MUST be saturated. Put on a snug fitting shower cap to prevent evaporation of the oils or wrap plastic around hair and scalp.
CAUTION: VERY IMPORTANT
If plastic is used, the child must be under constant supervision to avoid accidental suffocation.

Remove shower cap or plastic wrap after 2 hours. Shampoo well, rinse well. Comb with fine toothed comb. Repeat every 3 days untril no longer needed.


Sleep Problems
Chamomile tea is safe and effective for children with sleep problems and is also said to be helpful for nightmares. Give 1 cup of warm chamomile tea 1/2 hour before bedtime. Take child to toilet just before bed. For small babies, add 1 tablespoon of the tea to the bedtime bottle. For older babies and toddlers, use up to 1/2 cup.


Teething
Chamomile tea is helpful in calming teething children, see Sleep Problems for dosage.

7070, that post alone
Posted by Evol, Sat Oct-26-02 10:11 AM
is archive-worthy.
7071, ARCHIVE
Posted by Evol, Mon Oct-28-02 12:56 AM

7072, ima wait until
Posted by guerilla_love, Mon Oct-28-02 03:57 AM
this drops a bit

to make sure that this one is completely finished
7073, more HAIRCARE
Posted by guerilla_love, Mon Oct-28-02 05:53 AM
from http://www.vegsource.com

NEW INNOVATIONS IN BOTANICAL HAIR CARE

As consumers become more aware of their health and well-being, science has followed. The flux of new, natural solutions from herbal supplements to skin care illustrates this phenomenon, and the hair care industry is no exception. So what are the latest natural hair care ingredients to hit the market, the ones that consumers will soon be asking for?

· Wheatgrass: Widely known as a nutritional supplement to help removes toxins from the bloodstream, wheatgrass is also one of Nature's most effective hair cleansers. It is also packed with antioxidants to protect hair from damaging UV-induced free radicals. Its deep-cleansing action removes excess oil, residue and debris, making it ideal for normal to oily hair types.

· Rice Protein: Great for fine, limp hair, hydrolyzed rice protein has a low molecular weight, which enables it to penetrate the hair shaft and expand its diameter for noticeably thicker hair. Hollywood stylists often spritz rice water onto hair before styling to impart instant volume and fullness.

· Soy Protein: As one of the ingredients creating the latest buzz, soy has emerged as Nature's "cure-all" in hair care. This revitalizing, hydrating protein can be found in shampoos and conditioners. In shampoos, it helps hydrate, reconstruct and strengthen hair shafts weakened by chemicals or overdryness. In conditioners, it smoothes the cuticle, helps restore body and elasticity, and guards against color fading.

· Chinese Herbs: Used for centuries by the Chinese to stimulate and energize weak hair and scalp, these exotic botanical blends gently remove follicle-blocking sebum and debris that can slow growth and cause premature hair loss. They have also been shown to alleviate dandruff and symptoms associated with the condition, including itchiness and dryness.

· Goldenseal Extract: An effective healer for hair, this natural extract from the goldenseal root historically has been used as a hair tonic to cleanse and add shine. It's also known to help control dryness of the scalp.

· Avocado Oil: A very rich emollient, this buttery oil is the ultimate natural conditioner, leaving hair glossy, smooth and moisturized. It strengthens and softens brittle, broken hair shafts and split ends caused by overexposure to heat tools, the sun and chemical processes.

· Carrot Seed: This extract hydrates each strand, leaving it soft and luxurious while also eliminating excess oil and product residue from hair surface. Its protective properties shield hair from external aggressions. Great for all hair types.

Ultimately, the point of shampoos and conditioners is to clean and condition the hair … but if the products we use can potentially harm ourselves and our loved ones, isn't it smarter to be safe than sorry? In a culture where consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about their health, it is the retailers' responsibility to offer them the most wholesome and healthiest choices, whether they are vitamins or personal care products. Once a retailer becomes committed to this mission, the customers will notice.




With much love,

Peter Lamas

Editor's note: Learn more about Peter's own line of natural shampoos at LamasBeauty.com