On the day we were burned, New Year’s Day 1984, after hearing Kaia’s diagnosis, I discharged myself from Massachusetts General Hospital. I then received a detailed consultation from a friend who was an acupuncturist and had studied Ayurveda in India for three years.

The first thing he told me was to be sure to do everything the doctors at Shriner’s Hospital suggested, exactly as they advised. He spoke to me about incorporating several complimentary practices and therapies into our healing program:

• Chinese herbs for pain reduction
• Prevention of any stress is crucial
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat a lot of protein, more than usual
• Eat foods very high in minerals
• Eat root vegetables abundantly
• Eat plenty of dark leafy green vegetables: kale, collards, chard, watercress, beet greens, etc
• Cook very soft, watery foods; long, slow cooked
• Eat lots of sea vegetables, loaded with essential building blocks now referred to as essential sugars
• Drink herbal teas, especially with roots and leaves high in minerals and nervines (and nerve nutrients)
• Light and Sound therapy
• Color therapy in relation to clothing, food and our surroundings
• St. John’s wort infused oil applied onto the skin, after release from the hospital, to support nerve repair

The nurses, doctors and hospital attendants at the Shriners Burn Institute were, and are, in a class by themselves. Each interaction with her healthcare workers felt gentle, comforting and completely honoring, even with my alternative ways of looking at wellness and healing. Upon arriving, they treated and evaluated Kaia’s needs. She was diagnosed with approximately 20% of her body exhibiting second degree, borderline third degree burns. With that much area having absolutely no skin, she could easily contract infections, so she was quarantined for about 48 hours. They told me that she would need to spend approximately four months in the hospital and would undergo two to three skin grafts. Follow-up visits would be twice weekly for about six months and then once weekly for a year and a half or more.

My daughter and I already practiced a very strict wholesome foods diet. In fact, Kaia had only eaten sugar once in her life before our accident, a month earlier (and against my wishes) on her third birthday. I was careful to see to it that we would eat plenty of high quality protein, plenty of sea vegetables, roots and dark leafy greens each and every day. I immediately began to prepare very soft, slow-cooked, soothing whole grains and healing foods.

I knew what I craved each day, and it seemed that that’s exactly what Kaia wanted, too! Soft brown rice gruel, millet, whole oats or barley were served with lots of Chinese cabbage, kale, sea vegetables and white beans or tofu. The white beans were cooked over low heat for more than twelve hours, and tofu was steamed with just a hint of tamari (real cultured soy sauce).

Kaia had an amazing appetite as she began her recovery. I heard that many of the children there at the hospital rejected food, so they needed to be force fed to get enough calories and protein into their bodies to help heal the damage from their burns.

Kaia ate three fairly large bowls of organic, nutritious foods for each of her three meals daily. That was nine bowls of food every day to give her the building blocks to help with her repair! And we certainly didn’t need to force feed her! She ate willingly, chewing well, and enjoying every bite. Each day, she would have a comment about her meal, “Mom, how did you know I was craving millet and onions!” or “This is the best meal I ever tasted!”

The hospital staff was astounded by her appetite. They watched in amazement as she asked for seconds and thirds. A couple times, she even ate a fourth helping, as her healing process shifted into high gear. The entire staff was completely supportive of our strange foods and unconventional ways. It made a very traumatic experience much less difficult to go through.

I found color therapy very important. I wore only white or very light colored clothing. Any dark colors bothered me, and I observed that just looking at dark clothes or dark or bright colors, especially red, in my surroundings felt like it undid a little bit of my healing process. The foods that we ate were mostly white or very light in color, except those very high mineral foods, like kale, Swiss chard and sea vegetables.

Sound also had quite an impact. Very soft, soothing sounds and music felt very healing, but any loud or sharp sound, such as that of people arguing, talk radio, even the news and weather, or louder rock and roll music seemed to slow or stop the healing of our damaged skin tissue. Reading aloud, and being read to, felt especially soothing and healing for both of us.

Prevention of any stress is truly crucial for the healing process to thrive. This was certainly obvious to my body, as I felt pain anytime I felt any physical or emotional stress whatsoever. But when I was stress-free, there was little or no pain.  I could notice that over a few day’s time, it was more obvious.

All of the other foods and herbs helped our process, as well. We drank Chinese herb teas with powerful aromas and flavors for the initial pain, switching to various western herbal teas that he suggested for helping to repair the damaged nerves, and for nourishment and enjoyment. We both drank plenty of water every day. Kaia asked several times a day for her glass to be refilled. This also surprised the hospital staff.

On the morning of the eighth day that Kaia was hospitalized, a miracle occurred. I got a call from her doctor explaining to me that they consider Kaia to be an absolute wonder, and that she had healed in eight days more than they had expected in four months, without the need for the two to three skin grafts! He then asked if I would please pick her up as soon as I was able, because they had a little girl being air lifted from Chicago with severe burns who would need Kaia’s bed. I picked her up in the early afternoon, drove to my friend’s house, and entered the next phase of recovery.

Although I continued to use the topical medicines for burns as instructed by her doctor, I added the next ‘alternative therapy’ as well. What happened when we used Herb Pharm’s organic St. John’s wort infused oil was a true and potent miracle. My friend, Beti, and I applied the beautiful bright red oil onto her skin every two hours to support her nerve repair. We would take turns getting up in the night so that we could keep to the two-hour schedule. It seemed that every time we applied the St. John’s wort oil, we could observe a noticeable improvement! “Was this possible?” we wondered.

On the thirteenth day after our terrible accident, we went back to the hospital for our first follow-up visit. The doctor asked me where the child was that had been burned. I pointed to Kaia, but he spoke to me as if I might have brought the wrong child, or something!

You see, there were no markings whatsoever on Kaia’s skin! It was soft and pink and perfect! He looked in her chart at the large photographs of her very significant burns from just less than two weeks ago. Then he looked at Kaia again. In a stern voice, he asked me what was going on.

Kaia immediately looked him in the eye, asked if he was a ‘burn doctor’ too, and began to tell him a story about something that had happened to her while she was in the hospital. His jaw dropped. You could have knocked him over with a feather! We stood in silence for several moments.

Then he asked me what we did, and as I began to speak, he asked if he could go find a colleague or two so that they could also hear our story. A few minutes later, he returned with two other doctors, one that had been a burn specialist for more than twenty years. They asked me dozens of questions as they wrote pages of detailed notes about every alternative measure that we had taken. They were absolutely wonderful about my miraculous daughter’s recovery, and told me that we would not be required to come for any more follow-up visits.

It was at that moment that a fire began to burn in my belly. I announced, mostly to myself, that from that day forward, I would be an herbalist for the rest of my life. And so it is.

Remember: The immediate action to take for a burn of virtually any size is to submerge it in cool or cold water. Do not apply ice, butter or oil and if a burn is anything more than a very small, superficial one, seek medical attention right away. Burns can be quite serious. Remember, it’s preferred that you don’t even hold a new burn under fast running water. When a burn is soaked in cool water, the heat is released and the water will warm within minutes. Change the water as often as needed until medical attention is available. Pure aloe vera or lavender essential oil may be applied after soaking in cold water for superficial burns.

Red clover, a common perennial herb that grows wild in meadows through much of the world, is in the legume family, just as beans, peas and peanuts are. Its Latin name, Trifolium pretense, means “three leaves, found in the meadow”. Red clover is well-known by organic farmers as a cover crop, ideal for fixing nitrogen to increase soil fertility. Some of its other common names are purple clover, cow clover, meadow clover and wild clover.

There are hundreds of species, and many are grown for feeding livestock, but red clover is believed to be of great medicinal value. The flowering tops, on the one day when they are at the peak of perfection, are harvested for use in tinctures, teas, capsules and body care products. Because red clover, once dried, easily loses its medicinal value, it is important to choose products carefully so that we may enjoy their numerous benefits.

Red clover is considered to be a powerful alterative, meaning that it’s a remedy that restores good health. Well known for its ability to cleanse and purify the blood, red clover is believed to help prevent some of the plaque deposits that can lead to heart attacks or stroke, improving circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

Assisting the liver with the detoxification process, red clover has been reputed as a safe and useful remedy for a variety of health complaints associated with the liver or ‘dirty blood’. Over the last several centuries, one of red clover’s primary uses has been for dermal inflammations, including childhood and adult eczema, psoriasis, dandruff and various rashes. Red clover would often be added to the tea pot for daily consumption and detoxification when symptoms arose. Ointments or salves containing red clover would be applied topically to the affected area. More recently, red clover has been useful for teen, cystic or hormonally-activated acne.

Red clover is considered to be an excellent antispasmodic, meaning that it helps to relieve mild cramping or muscle spasm and it works as an expectorant, helping clear lungs of phlegm and toxins. Traditional health practitioners have used it as part of a program to calm bronchial spasms and coughs associated with the common cold, as well as some serious respiratory problems, including whooping cough, bronchitis, asthma and pneumonia.

Red clover is high in numerous nutrients, including the B vitamins, niacin (B3) and thiamine (B1); vitamin C; and several minerals, including calcium, chromium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Nutritionally, red clover is most well known as a very rich source of isoflavones, a group of compounds found in many plants. These phyto-chemicals, also found in soy, look similar to the female hormone estrogen.

Red clover is often used in herbal formulations to help girls and young women with cramping, moodiness and breast tenderness associated with PMS. Red clover has become popular for helping women with menopause and peri-menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. It is used by women of all ages to help protect the breasts and improve hormonal health.

There is a lot of confusion in the media and on health websites about how phyto-estrogens, such as isoflavones, work. When plant-based chemical compounds are naturally occurring in an herb such as red clover, these hormone-balancing little gems simply fill some of the estrogen receptors within the body. When isoflavones have been chemically isolated away from the complexity of the plant, they lose the checks and balances of the whole, natural, full-spectrum herb. They can then act more like hormone-replacement medications, providing potential results but with greater possibility for side-effects. Red clover in its whole form such as herbal tea or tincture has not been associated with any side effects.

Red clover has been used for cysts, cancerous tumors, and other growths in Europe, Asia and the Americas for centuries. Early test tube research shows that it may stop cancer cell growth or kill cancer cells altogether. Human research shows promising evidence that red clover interferes with the progression of endometrial cancer (the lining of the uterus) and may block enzymes believed to contribute to prostate cancer in men. Another study showed that red clover also may slow the development of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.

Red clover has been a key ingredient in traditional remedies used by Ojibway and other native tribal healers. It has been an important part of several detoxifying herbal preparations in the past hundred years, as well. Rene Caisse, a nurse in the 1920’s in Canada, opened a cancer clinic using a formulation containing red clover. A portion of her formula is now marketed as Essiac, and for decades these herbs have been used to help people and their pets  with various types and stages of cancer and other blood disorders.

Also in the early 1900’s, the Hoxsey formula was used in 17 cancer clinics throughout Texas and the US. An excellent book called “When Healing Becomes a Crime” was written by Kenny Ausubel about Harry Hoxsey and his experiences with herbal and alternative cancer protocols.

The Eclectic doctors in the 1800’s used red clover often. A fomentation (hot, moist herbal compress), salve, liniment, infused oil, or poultice made with red clover and other cleansing herbs was applied topically to help reduce growths.

You’ll find several excellent red clover products available in the Wellness department and the tea aisle of your local co-op or health food store. Look for Herb Pharm’s tincture of red clover, as well as their wonderful detoxification formula, Red Clover – Stillingia Compound, for a daily or occassional blood purifying effect. And at least twice a year, we should all participate in a more therapeutic cleansing program, which might include one of my other favorite red clover products, such as:

• the detoxification formula called Flor-Essence Herbal Tea Blend, which is based on the original Ojibway formula passed along to Rene Caisse, offered in liquid or dry herb tea,

• Eclectic Institute’s Blood Support, which combines freeze-dried burdock with red clover, yellow dock, nettles and dandelion root to support liver and blood detoxification,

• Eclectic Institute also has a straight-up freeze-dried red clover. I prefer the combinations above, but this is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high quality red clover capsule.

Happy cleansing on your path to wellness.

Vaccines are potentially dangerous in numerous ways, due to the quantities of vaccines given and chemical and heavy metal additives used in production and for preserving them. Both of my daughters had severe reactions to being vaccinated more than 20 years ago, causing years of difficulties for both children and parents, and there are so many more vaccines given to our babies and children today. Although there are many reasons for the sharp increases in autism in children, and Alzheimer’s and other dementia in elders, I firmly believe that immunizations, including annual flu shots, (which often contain mercury and other harmful chemicals and heavy metals).

I want to let people of all ages know how they may safely strengthen their immune health so as to help prevent illness, and recover quickly if sickness occurs. These are simple, often inexpensive solutions that are considered safe for people of all ages, unless otherwise noted in the text. If you prefer to have more personalized information, please consider a Wellness Consultation or the Six Months to Wellness Program. I’d be happy to support your wellness education in any way I am able.

First, and possibly most importantly, eating whole milk plain organic yogurt (or kefir) every day may be your best line of defense. Eating whole milk plain organic yogurt is shown in research to be one of the most powerful selective antimicrobials that we have on Earth. Astonishing, right? What this means is that it can help our bodies to fight the bad guys and support our good colonies of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, assisting digestion, immune health, energy levels and a cheerful mood.

Notice I said ‘whole milk’, ‘organic’ and ‘plain’. This is because low fat and fat-free yogurt are no longer whole foods; they’ve had all that good fat removed, and most of the powerful immune boosting nutrients are bound to the fat. That good fat (the cream on the top) also supports good brain, skin, mood, heart and overall health.

I also stipulated that the yogurt should be ‘organic’. This is vital for immune health, as we want to avoid the hormones and antibiotics that are believed to compromise good immune system health. Non-organic yogurt, usually loaded with food additive chemicals, numerous forms of sugar, and ‘dead’ beneficial bacteria, should really be referred to as pudding, not yogurt. And ‘plain’ is implying ‘unsweetened’, as sweeteners also compromise the immune system.

Now, I often hear people say that that they don’t like plain yogurt, that it’s too sour or boring. For the numerous health benefits, we want to taste that sour flavor, but we need not always eat yogurt alone, although you’ll want to avoid fruits and other sweeteners. You may try mixing in some organic cinnamon, a thinly sliced cucumber, or finely chopped red pepper. These are all ways my daughters and I have loved eating plain yogurt over the years. I’ve found even finicky toddlers love these three simple recipes. Try them daily to strengthen your immune health or create your own sweetener-free yogurt snacks.

In my opinion, the most amazing immune strengthening herb is Elderberry. If you haven’t read my recent article about the benefits of Elderberry yet, please do so. Elderberry has been revered throughout much of Europe and with many Native American tribes for centuries for strengthening the immune system, providing the body with the ability to stay healthier, fighting illness and disease. The traditional use of Elderberry for prevention of cold and flu was to consume a small amount beginning just before the flu season begins and each morning and night until spring arrives.

Unlike many herbal immune remedies, Elderberry has been successfully used for prevention, the onset of symptoms and when cold and flu symptoms are full-blown. Traditionally, people experiencing illness would increase the frequency of taking Elderberry tincture, elixir or syrup from between four times a day to as often as every hour, and sometimes as often as every fifteen or twenty minutes. Since virus germs and bad bacteria can multiply every fifteen or twenty minutes, this may help get their numbers down quite quickly.

Raw local honey is another wonderful way to lift the immune system. The traditional use of raw local honey to prevent illness has a rich history going back thousands of years. Very small amounts, usually ¼ to ½ teaspoon each morning and night is believed to help the body fight potential pathogens, improve vitality and increase overall health. One of my favorite ways to use raw local honey is to mix it in a glass of slightly warm water with a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice. Larger amounts of honey, because of the sweetness, may create an opposite effect, so please be sure not to overdo it.

Honey should NOT be given to babies less than one year old. All others, especially folks who suffer with allergies, will likely find a great improvement in immune health with the use of raw honey daily.

Eating more vegetables is well known to improve the immune system’s ability to fight illness, including the flu viruses. Include a wide variety of colorful cooked and raw vegetables in all three of your daily meals, and reach for a snack that includes vegetables when you need a between meal pick-me-up. Please don’t count potatoes as one of your vegetables, however. Their high starch content makes them an immune weakening food.

And you may want to reduce or eliminate the following foods (or food-like substances) to support your immune system:
sugar- white sugar, processed honey, etc.
flour (even whole wheat, soy, rice, and other whole grain flour). This includes most bread, pasta, pastry, rolled and instant oats and packaged cereals.
fried foods are quite harmful to our immune health
junk food
food additive chemicals
margarine, shortening and most vegetable oils, especially soy and canola
fruit juices- drink water or herbal teas instead.
fruits- people are often surprised by this. An apple each day, or an occasional piece of fruit is not bad for us, but the amount of fruit that most Americans eat is potentially damaging to our immune health.

To your health!

My introduction to Elderberries was making jam, wine and pies with my elder neighbor as a girl. I have appreciated this nutritious food and valuable herbal remedy ever since. My first sighting of the vibrant, deep purple umbels of berries each late summer brings feelings of euphoria and comfort to my entire being.

Numerous research studies have shown that Elderberry strengthens the immune system and helps fight viral and bacterial infections in people of virtually all ages and health conditions. One study shows that Elderberry can improve outcomes of cancer and AIDS patients as complimentary therapy with chemotherapy and other treatments.

Elderberries are nourishing and detoxifying. Very rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, including quercetin, as well as tannins, amino acids, carotenoids (pro-vitamin A) and much of the B complex, Elderberries help to alkalize and strengthen most of our organs and systems. They’re also known to benefit the eyes, skin, sinuses, tonsillitis, cholesterol levels, fevers, cardiovascular health, the genitourinary region and are calming for the nervous system.

Our local North American Elder (Sambucus canadensis) is a small bush, usually growing to about 8’ high and 6 – 10’ wide. The European variety, the Black Elder (Sambucus nigra), grows to be considerably bigger to the height of a small tree, usually no more than 30 feet high.

Elderberries are as important for the immune health of our local and migrating birds as they are for humans. Many invasive species, such as Japanese knotweed, have taken over regions where Elder used to grow, crowding it out and therefore likely weakening our bird populations’ ability to fight infections. Do you suppose that could be one of the reasons we need to worry more these days about viruses associated with birds, or birds and pigs?

So if you are interested in supporting your local bird populations and attracting migrating birds to your yard or wild area, please consider planting several Elder bushes next spring.

The red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), not common in our region, is considered to be slightly toxic, and the wood from this species is more significantly toxic, especially for children. But the berries and flowers of the two medicinal varieties are considered very safe and beneficial for our health.

Your local co-op or Mom-and-Pop health food store likely carries a fine selection of elderberry products in their wellness section. Here in Vermont, our local brand is Elderberry Syrup from Honey Gardens Apiaries of Vermont. Prevention never tasted so good! My other favorite Elderberry syrup, called Sambu (or Sambu Guard) from Flora Health, has been sold on the European market for more than 100 years. Look for the other excellent capsule and tincture products, as well, including Gaia, New Chapter and Herb Pharm.

The way Elderberry syrup was traditionally used over the centuries was one half to one teaspoon in the morning and again in the evening to keep the immune system strong throughout cold and flu season; smaller children would use about one fourth teaspoon morning and night.

Some products contain honey, so please use caution in this way if desiring to administer to babies less than one year old. (Check with her/his pediatrician for a better form. Herb Pharm makes a wonderful Black Elderberry Glycerite .) When people found themselves ill, they would take more frequent servings throughout the day, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest. In this way, they’d be feeling strong and vibrant in no time.

Calendula Officianalis, or simply calendula (pronounced kə’-lend’-ju-lə), is a garden favorite often referred to as field marigold or pot marigold. Originally native to the Mediterranean region, calendula, a member of the daisy family, has naturalized throughout much of Europe, North America and the world.

Calendula has a rich history of use as food and medicine that goes back to the ancient Romans, Persians and Greeks. Calendula flowers and leaves were added to soups and stews to strengthen and fortify the immune system and to increase feelings of happiness. Throughout Europe, calendula petals were added to butter and cheeses to make a pleasant yellow coloring.

By the mid-1800’s, calendula was commonly used by doctors for major injuries and after limb amputations to help prevent infection and heal the wound. During the Civil War, doctors used dried calendula flowers to speed the healing of soldiers wounded in battle.

Only the Calendula officinalis with deep orange flowers is used to make herbal and medicinal remedies. The sticky, bright flowers should be harvested on dry days after the dew has fully evaporated. They may be used fresh or dried for making tea, and wilted or dried for most other herbal preparations. If you’re not a gardener or need some today, look in the bulk herb section of your local co-op or herb shop. Garden varieties of Calendula, in many shades of yellow, orange and red, are often planted around the periphery of the garden to ward off potentially harmful pests.

Today, calendula is used primarily in topical formulas to help the body to heal external wounds and lacerations. You will find a variety of fine herbal first aid and skin healing products with calendula as one of their primary ingredients in the Wellness dept. of your local co-op or health food store.

Moms may find it helpful to keep a calendula salve or a tube of gel in their purse or diaper bag for applying to cuts, scrapes, minor burns, bug bites, diaper rash or cradle cap. Weleda offers several baby care products containing soothing calendula.

Try Boiron Calendula Lotion the next time you spend too long in the hot sun and your skin appears cooked like a Maine lobster. I bet you’ll feel cooler and more comfortable in no time.

Calendula lotion is wonderful for those of us who are prone to rashes, hives or other skin irritations. Immediately soothing, calendula calms the itch and helps with the redness and inflammation. Calendula may also be quite helpful for areas prone to chaffing or bedsores.

Internally, calendula has been use for lymphatic system stagnation and to support immune system function. A common sign of lymphatic stagnation is swollen glands; try a cup of calendula tea or a dropper of tincture the next time you feel your glands swelling or a cold coming on. Or float one flower, fresh or dried, in your favorite tea every day to help keep the doctor away. Remember to steep your herbal teas with a tight fitting lid so as to retain the medicinal properties. Uncovered, much of the medicinal benefits will go up in the steam and you will be sipping warm flavored water. When steeping your tea in a mug, you may use a saucer or plate as the lid.

Historically, Calendula has also been used as a cough and cold remedy, used either internally or try rubbing calendula oil on the upper back or chest.

It is especially helpful when the person is feeling very weak and tired, with a rattling chest cough. And calendula was a choice herb used for exhaustion during and after a long or severe illness or infection.

So it is time to restore this valuable orange flower to a place of honor in the herb cupboard. Choose it often as autumn begins to set in and maybe you will find that cold and flu season will go more smoothly next winter.

Immune Strengthening Autumn Miso Soup with Calendula Flowers
Makes 6 servings
3 cups vegetable stock, filtered or spring water
1 onion, chopped
1 medium sweet potato, thinly sliced
1 medium daikon radish, cut to half moons
1/8 to 1/4 oz organic kelp or dulse, soaked and chopped finely
2 TBSP calendula flowers, dried and chopped finely
1 4-6” pc astragalus (cooked, not eaten)
1 cup kale, chopped finely
1 cup more cold vegetable stock, filtered or spring water
6 – 12 tsp miso, white, red or brown

Combine all ingredients (except miso and 1 cup of liquid) in a soup pot. Bring to a boil, turn heat to medium-low and simmer for 40 minutes. Remove from heat. Add last cup of cold water or stock. Stir briefly. Place miso paste in a soup bowl; add a ladle of soup broth; stir in completely with a fork or whisk. Add miso mixture to the pot of soup. Stir again. Serve and enjoy.

Both the neem seeds and leaves are pressed for their valuable oils; neem seed oil is widely used for pest control in the home, garden, commercial farms and industrial food storage warehouses. Neem seed oil is approved for organic gardening, and when properly diluted, it is considered safe for children, pets, birds, butterflies, and has even been shown to help increase earthworm populations. Please check out the Thera Neem brand organic Neem Oil for the Garden, produced in Florida by Organix South, found in the flower or natural health department of your local co-op or health market.

Neem extracts were tested by the Malaria Institute and found to keep mosquitoes from biting for up to twelve hours. According to John Conrick, author of the book, Neem: The Ultimate Herb, it is also helpful for defending against ticks, fleas and biting flies. The lemongrass scented

Thera Neem Herbal Outdoor Spray is regarded as safe for the entire family, including babies. I have used this product, as well as the straight neem oil, with my family, friends and dogs for years to fend off bugs with very good results.

The neem leaf oil is used extensively in body care products and many cosmetics. Numerous studies confirm what the Indian people have known for centuries; neem is very helpful for improving and maintaining beautiful skin and overall good health. Straight neem leaf oil is used to prevent infection in wounds and for bacterial and fungal infections including impetigo, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, yeast infections (candida), jock itch and ringworm. Neem leaf oil has also been used for cold sores and herpes outbreaks for decades.

Neem cream or lotion is wonderful for diaper rash, bug bites, acne, skin irritations, ulcerations and rashes. Two separate studies have shown neem cream to significantly reduce symptoms of eczema, psoriasis and extremely dry or cracking skin for months. Try applying after swimming in a chlorinated pool or when you’ve gotten too much sun. It’s wonderfully cooling and nourishing! You’ll find Thera Neem Leaf and Oil Cream or their Neem Leaf and Oil Lotion to really feel like it’s helping your body calm, sooth and heal your damaged skin.

Neem shampoo and coconut-scented conditioner can help provide relief for an itchy, irritated scalp, and are widely believed to help prevent or rid us of dandruff and head lice. I’ve known teachers, day care workers and nurses who swear by these products. For more serious results, you may want to add a few drops of the pure neem leaf oil to your shampoo in your hand to help loosen nits. It is generally suggested when one is known to have lice to leave the shampoo and oil mixture on the scalp (wrapped in a towel) for 30 minutes before rinsing.

Both modern research and ancient writings show neem bark powder to support a healthy mouth, teeth and gums. It is high in beneficial antioxidants and leaves the mouth feeling fresh and lively. TheraNeem Herbal Toothpaste and Herbal Mouthrinse are formulated with organic neem to refresh the mouth and support the digestive tract, (which is often the real cause of bad breath, rotting teeth and receding gums.)

The rapidly growing neem tree has been planted along thousands of avenues in tropical cities around the globe for shade, beauty and firewood. It has also been planted throughout many of the world’s deserts and arid regions, helping to restore a more diverse ecology. Used for malaria, diabetes, viral and bacterial infections, and so much more, the neem tree could be the most valuable tree for the health of our planet and its inhabitants.

For more information, please read

Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems, compiled by the U.S. Office of International Affairs and Neem: The Ultimate Herb by John Conrick.

Anita came by for tea the next morning and we spoke about some of the possibilities. I’m a big fan of using nutritious foods for helping the body heal itself. I suggested she should learn more about eating sea vegetables for their amazing healing capabilities. They are considered to be some of the most nutritious foods on Earth. She could buy kelp or dulse granules or flakes in the bulk section of our local co-op and put it in a grated cheese shaker. “Just shake a bit on everything Shayna eats, except maybe ice cream”, I suggested. “Because sea vegetables taste salty, they’re great on popcorn, rice, mashed potato, veggies, salads and sandwiches. You can cook with them too. Give a good shake or two into whatever you prepare for dinner each night.”

“That sounds doable”, Anita responded. “What other foods could help?”

We discussed dark leafy green vegetables. They are nutritionally dense, quick and easy to prepare and actually taste good. “My daughters both love kale,” I told her.

“Really? I can’t get my girls to eat kale, or any other greens, unless it’s hidden in soup or a casserole. What do you do with it?” she asked.

“I put it in most of my soups and casseroles, too. But we have at least one dark leafy green dish most evenings. In an iron skillet, I melt about a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil. Then I toss in three or four cloves of chopped (local organic) garlic. Remember to crush it with the side of the knife before chopping. This releases the healing benefits found in garlic. Mix with a wooden spoon. Mollie always loved to do this part for me. Then I add finely chopped kale and a tablespoon or two of water, and cover it with a tight fitting lid. Turn the heat to low and simmer it about seven minutes. Once the pan is removed from the heat, I squeeze a little lemon juice or just a tiny splash of umeboshi vinegar on top (or sometimes we choose another delicious vinegar), and viola, everyone loves it! ”

“We hear a lot about dairy products being good for our bones. But we’ve had a 50 year advertising campaign lying to us about what the research really showed. It’s best not to believe all we hear. Truth is,” I explained “according to some very large studies, when we drink just two or more glasses of milk daily, we increase our risk of osteoporosis, as well as hip and arm fractures. Yogurt and kefir are fermented milk and according to the research, fermented milk is the ideal way to get calcium and other nutrients from dairy products right into our bones.”

Anita smiled. “I once had a nurse try to explain that to me! I thought she was nuts.”

“Yeah, it’s hard to undo what we’ve heard and believed all our lives. Here’s another one. You want to eat yogurt with as little fruit or sweetener as possible, Most of those products in the grocers that are labeled as yogurt are nothing more than fancy sweet pudding.” I told her. “You want to taste the sour of the fermented milk. And we should all eat organic whole milk yogurt. The fat is all good fat; good for the brain, skin, cardiovascular system, etc. Try yogurt with cucumbers and fennel or curry powder.” I suggested. “Or try a little cinnamon with a few nuts or seeds sprinkled on top.

“And speaking of nuts and seeds; that is actually the next category of food that’s perfect for helping the body mend bone. When we eat nuts and seeds, we should ALWAYS choose organic. [This is more important than ever in 2008, as many non-organic nuts and seeds these days are irradiated, genetically engineered, roasted with rancid oils, etc] Soaking them overnight makes them even more nutritious and it becomes much easier for our bodies to digest and utilize the nutrients. And soaked nuts and seeds are delicious, too!”

Anita knew about sprouting. She and her daughters grew several types of sprouts regularly. But she hadn’t realized that soaking nuts and seeds overnight begins the sprouting process and therefore increases the goodness contained in these delicious foods. (For people with milder food sensitivities, this process can often help to reduce or eliminate any negative reactions.)

I asked Anita if she and her daughters had ever used comfrey salve or comfrey tincture. She said they had put a comfrey and St. John’s wort salve on bruises, cuts and scrapes. “I actually learned about it from you a few years ago,” she told me. “You suggested it when I burned my hand on a hot frying pan and it turned into a big puffy blister. You told me about St. John’s oil, but the co-op was out of it, so you mentioned the salve was probably the next best thing. It worked wonderfully. We’ve been using it ever since.”

I explained to her that, according to more than a thousand years of medical evidence, comfrey strengthens bones, skin and joints, and speeds healing. But it’s not legal for me to suggest anyone take the tincture or tea orally; although it’s very helpful to apply comfrey salve to the affected region. You can also add some extra comfrey tincture to the salve or just apply a few drops of tincture directly onto the skin, then rub the salve right over it.

I told Anita about my friend, Cassie and the tiny kitten she had recently rescued from a stray cat in the neighborhood. The young kitten fell three stories from between the rungs on the deck. Cassie rushed the kitten to the veterinary hospital where she was told her seven week old kitten needed thousands of dollars worth of surgery, or else they should consider putting her to sleep.

Cassie decided to bring the kitten home and I met her there. We made up a batch of comfrey tea and the kitten licked the bowl dry. Over the next two days, the kitten refused her organic wet kitten food, but licked the bowl clean every time we offered her a tablespoon or two of comfrey tea. We also soaked a washcloth in the tea and placed it around some of the kitten’s injuries.

I explained to Anita that they could also make a comfrey compress for Shayna’s injured arm by making tea, soaking a washcloth in it and applying it to the affected region just above her wrist. I also mentioned that this was helpful for sprained ankles, sore necks, elbows, knees, shoulders and even broken ribs. She said that with such active girls, that would likely be valuable information!

“Another way to use comfrey these days,” I offered, “is to use the homeopathic remedy, Symphytum Off. This is the Latin name for comfrey, and it’s a legal, safe and effective way to ingest comfrey. In fact, it is widely used in Europe for sprains, strains, fractures, broken bones and many other types of injury, as well. I usually look for the strength called Symphytum Off. 30c, but any strength can be helpful.”

Anita asked what other herbal teas could help. She reminded me that her daughters, like mine, enjoyed herbal teas, hot or cold, most afternoons when they got home from school. I told her that most green leafy teas would be high in minerals and good for her daughter’s healing process, with nettles and horsetail being considered very beneficial for bone health. They could also enjoy all of the following; alfalfa, lemon balm, raspberry, thyme and peppermint. Ginger tea may also be helpful for circulation and inflammation.

Knowing that Anita and her girls were strict vegetarians living busy lives, I suggested they may want to reduce or eliminate most soy products. I asked if she understood that unfermented soy had anti-nutrients, meaning that many soy foods may actually impede our ability to utilize macro-minerals, such as calcium, magnesium and potassium. I explained about the nutritional benefits of fermented soy foods; miso, natto, tempeh and tamari (traditional soy sauce). For additional details, please check out: The Great Soy Debate.

Exercise is essential for bone health, and prevention is the best medicine, of course, for broken bones. Strong, supple bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles must be strengthened through regular movement, preferably an activity that brings us joy or satisfaction. Once we have an injury, it’s important to learn how to properly exercise during the healing process.

Relaxation, yoga and breathing exercises can also be helpful. Anita and her daughters frequently took yoga classes at our community center. I suggested that they spend twenty minutes a day doing simple yoga and deep breathing at home to support Shayna’s recovery. She was certain that the girls would love that idea!

About a week later, I got a call from Anita. She wanted me to know that they had visited the doctor and had Shayna’s arm x-rayed just six days after our talk over tea. She gushed as she exclaimed, “The doctor told us Shayna’s bone has almost completely healed! He wanted to know what we had done differently. He was very impressed.” She added, “I told him he should talk to you! I even gave him your card.”

Maybe he’ll call me someday.

Acne, from a holistic viewpoint, is caused by toxins accumulating in the blood, liver, colon, lymphatic system and other organs of elimination. Proper cleansing of the organs and blood can have a dramatic effect with all types; teen, adult and cystic acne. Eating the right foods is essential during the time of detoxification, as well as afterwards during the nourishing and strengthening period. For those of us that experience extended episodes of acne, cystic acne or other chronic skin conditions, scheduling a cleanse for 7 to 15 days each spring and fall, or for a few days during each of the four seasons, will help the body with the toxin overload that is believed to lead to breakouts on the skin.

Acne is related to candida overgrowth; a symptom of candida, so to speak. When we address candida thoroughly, using detoxification and nutritional support, skin problems are alleviated or eliminated. Candida is a naturally occurring fungus within the intestinal tract, but when we use antibiotics, steroids, birth control pills, chlorinated water, etc; an overgrowth of one (or several) of the more than 70 species of candida can cause harm to our health in a variety of ways.

The liver and colon are nearly always congested whenever a skin imbalance occurs; whether we suffer with oily, dry or combination skin problems. Ideally, our colon should eliminate (bowel movements) two to three times daily; easily, well-formed and somewhat abundantly. For most Americans, this is not the case. Too many doctors have given their chronically ill patients incorrect information over the past few decades when they have told them that elimination two or three times a week is just ‘normal for them’. WRONG! This is NOT normal for anyone! It is a sign that the body is not functioning properly and is accumulating lots of toxins, further damaging our health.

Before we can begin to eliminate the toxin overload from the skin, blood, liver and other detoxifying organs, we MUST get the colon eliminating with ease daily. To correct a stagnant colon, more fiber is definitely needed, preferably from a healthy, natural foods diet containing LOTS of vegetables! Vegetables are truly the key to great health.

Notice I didn’t say ‘fruits and vegetables’? This is because they should virtually never be grouped together in one category! Fruits, although good for us in moderation, are very sweet and should be eaten infrequently and mostly when that particular fruit is in season in your area. So if you live in Wisconsin or Vermont, bananas and kiwi should be a rare treat, not your daily breakfast or snack foods. Think about what folks one hundred or more years ago would have eaten in your region. Make food choices with this concept in mind.

Change your diet in small ways each day or as you are able, thinking of them as lifestyle changes to support your overall health and vitality, rather than a dramatic diet or quick fix.

So; we need to eat more vegetables! This includes roots, dark leafy greens, squash, sea vegetables, etc. Every week, try adding a new vegetable to your meal plan that you’ve never had before. Find some interesting recipes that include it, and try preparing it a couple different ways; baked, steamed, raw in a salad, etc. It may be time to invest in a couple new (mostly vegetarian) cookbooks!

If the addition of more vegetables is not enough to get your colon eliminating sufficiently, a fiber powder product may be called for. My favorites are all made by Renew Life; Fiber Smart, Triple Fiber and the delicious cinnamon flavor found in the Organic Bowel Cleanse. Using fiber products in capsules is expensive, and you do not get very much real benefit compared to these tasty powders.

I would urge folks to also avoid fiber products found in most grocery stores and pharmacies, as well as those containing psyllium seed or husk, cascara sagrada or senna leaf. There are inherent concerns with each of these products and herbs, but that is a post for another day.

Avoid laxatives as well; even the ‘natural’ ones. Laxatives, by their very nature, stifle the body’s ability to eliminate on its own. Just five days in a row using a laxative product will reduce your body’s ability to eliminate without help. This can increase dependence on laxatives and further reduce complete elimination of the accumulated toxins that lead to poor health and skin problems.

If adding more fiber is only marginally helpful, and you’re not yet eliminating with ease, try Planetary Formulas’ Triphala or Renew Life’s Cleanse More. These powerful, yet gentle colon moving products work with our body to evacuate the colon. They do not cause us to loose our peristalsis, the rhythmic contractions in the intestines that directs food downward through the digestive tract and the body’s waste toward the rectum.

With issues of acne, especially with cystic acne, the lymphatic system has become quite sluggish, blocked or stagnant. Moving the lymph occurs with daily exercise, but not if we’re stressed out and uptight when we do the exercise. The lymphatic system doesn’t come with a pump, in the way that the circulatory system has the heart, so this daily exercise is necessary for the relief of the congestion or stagnation that the lymphatic system is designed to flush away from the organs and cells.

Exercising outdoors will provide us with increased benefits over the same workout done indoors or in the gym. Breathing fresh air invites us to release toxins more completely as we exhale, providing more room in the lungs for a greater inhale, and thereby delivering more oxygen to the cells.

Probably the most important first step would be to address the foods that you eat. What foods do you consume regularly? Take a close look at this for a few days. Keep a journal of everything consumed (foods and liquids), if necessary. The partial list below contains some of the most important things to eliminate (or at least reduce)as your body begins to regulate so that your skin may heal.

Chemical additives- preservatives, fillers, artificial flavors, colors, synthetic vitamins, minerals, etc.
Sugar and all soft drinks, especially the sugar-free variety.
Fried foods- including sautéed and deep fried foods
Vegetable oils- commercially prepared oils, even most of the ‘natural’ ones
Flour- even whole wheat; so no bread, pasta, pastries, cereals, junk food, etc. for awhile.
Junk food- chips, cookies, bagged snacks, fast food, pastries, etc.

Increase your consumption of the following cleansing, nourishing foods:

Sprouts- broccoli, radish, alfalfa, red clover, bean, etc.
Fermented foods- miso, yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, pickled beets,, cured olives, etc.
Indian spices- curry, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, etc.
Whole grains- (not flour) brown rice, millet, quinoa, barley, rye, etc.
Cruciferous vegetables- cabbage, kale, collards, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, etc.

Nourishing the blood, organs and cells is also imperative for the return of healthy, glowing skin. We know that skin health depends on nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K. But skin health responds far more readily to the complex array of vitamins, minerals, micronutrients and phytonutrients available in high quality organic foods than in the isolated nutrients and food-based products that most vitamins are made with. When foods and herbs are properly grown, harvested, dried, processed and/or extracted into clean, pure, excellent quality, high energy products the effect can be immediate and help to mend the imbalance that has lead to acne in young people and in adults.

Another important product to completely avoid is Olestra (also called Olean), a fat-free oil substitute. Many believe this stuff to be complete poison. It is reported to have caused many, possibly thousands of cases of long term bowel disease and disorders. And for many, it is believed to have caused severe acne problems, as well.

The most important thing about using herbs, even more essential than which herbs you select, is the quality of the product that you choose. Please read my article “Quality is Everything!” if you haven’t already. Now, I could just suggest all those same herbs that most of the other websites and books suggest, but if you don’t have the good fortune to choose a high quality herbal product, the herbs and supplements will be of little benefit, (except to line the pockets of the manufacturers of those poor quality products).

Check out any of the following herbal products for cleansing the liver, blood and skin:

Blood Support
Herb Pharm’s Dermal Health Compound
Gaia’s Skin & Nail Support
Flora’s Flor-Essence Tea tea
Lumina Health’s Cellfood

For cleansing herbs, it is helpful to take them in cycles; say 5 days on then 2 days off; or 10 days on and 5 days off. This is not because of some associated side effects, as has been rumored. In more than 5000 years of use, there are few true reports of side effects associated with clean, pure herbal remedies. The reason that it’s best to take herbs in cycles is that this is how we seem to get best results! This is likely due to the idea that the body gets a break from the herbal program, internally adjusts, and is ready to be affected by the next round of herbal support.

Essential fatty acids are another crucial part of good skin health. The EFA’s, as they’re often referred to, that support skin health are the ‘good 6’s’. The non- essential fatty acids that are omega 9’s are also excellent. Try organic hemp oil on your rice, salad or in a smoothie. It’s got the prefect balance of EFA’s for every cell in our bodies, is high in lots of other good nutrients, and tastes wonderful! Do not rely on fish oils, however. (I cannot tell you how often I’ve seen or heard fish oil recommended for skin conditions, but in reality, it’s the opposite of what’s really needed for healthy skin!)

If you prefer to take your ‘good fats’ in capsule form, you may want to try Renew Life’s Oil Smart. I have seen remarkable results with the use of this product, along with a good detoxification program, for severe acne problems. This is likely due to the fact that it contains plenty of lipase, the enzyme that helps us to digest and use all those good fats in our cells.

Now, most acne is associated with hormonal imbalances, which is often another symptom of a candida imbalance. To support this, you may choose to add a good hormonal balancing herbal product. Even though these products are geared toward women, men and boys with acne often benefit from their addition for the return of good skin health. (Please note: There is no estrogen or other harmful chemicals in any of these products.) Look for:

New Chapter’s Estrotone
Gaia’s Phyto-Estrogen
Herb Pharm’s Phytoestrogen Tonic.

For additional help and support, please look into a therapeutic detoxification program in your area or contact me. With the right cleansing foods and support herbs, you will likely begin to see the return of beautiful, clear skin in two to four weeks. Be patient with your body, smile and love yourself and feel gratitude for all that you’re blessed with.

And all these newfangled expensive fancy bottled ‘water’ like products on the market are all hype (and sugar and chemicals) with clever names, as if they’re somehow benefiting our bodies or minds. They are, in reality, benefiting the bottom lines of the manufacturers; often able to be produced for pennies then sold for much, much more.

But if you want to provide real healthy choices for your children, please consider offering them lots of fresh, pure filtered water (contact me for more information) and lots of herbal teas.

Now, there are several keys to success with making herb teas for children so that they’ll drink them and enjoy the experience. First, determine whether or not they like strong or milder tea, and make it to their preference. Then experiment with various flavors. Offer herbal teas to them unsweetened before automatically adding any sweetener. Most of them don’t need anything added.

Remember to ALWAYS put a lid on the tea, so as to receive all the nutritional benefits from the herbs. Most herb teas need to steep for 8 to 15 minutes, or longer. I often make herb teas up in pint, quart or even half gallon Mason jars at night before I go to bed. The next day, we have a delicious, nutritious beverage for room temperature consumption (the healthiest temperature for teas in warm weather) or to warm up a bit on chilly days (in a saucepan on the stove, please; not in a microwave).

To learn to make healthy herbal teas from bulk herbs, fresh or dried, please read “Quality is Everything!”

We may serve teas to children warm, at room temperature or chilled. But adding lots of ice may actually inhibit the body’s digestion and ability to reap the nutritional benefits of the herbs.

When she was younger, my older daughter always preferred weaker tea made with only one tea bag per pint of hot water. Kaia enjoyed having nettles added to just about every tea she drank. It was a helpful choice for her dry skin, and she loved it.

My younger daughter, Mollie, liked her teas as strong as possible; 2 tea bags, and sometimes even 3, per pint of hot water. She liked to have raspberry leaf added to whatever tea she was into at the time. Over the years, she enjoyed raspberry leaf added to Throat Coat, Herbatussin and even Pregnancy Tea! (She enjoyed the Pregnancy tea from four years old until about age eleven, when it began to be just a little too weird!)

One of our family’s favorite teas is made from one of my long time favorite New Chapter products; the

Ginger Honey Tonic (also called Ginger Wonder Syrup or Digestion Ginger Honey Tonic; same wonderful product with three different names). Just add a teaspoon (or more to taste) of this delicious syrup to some warm, (not hot, as we don’t want to destroy some of the enzymes, vitamins and phytonutrients) water; sip and enjoy this tasty, nourishing, invigorating, tummy soothing tea.

I also love to add a good Elderberry syrup to warm water to make a soothing delicious tea, especially during cold and flu season or when I know we’ve been exposed to something I don’t want to come down with. My favorite commercially available Elderberry syrup is Sambu

(or Sambu Guard) from Flora Health. Just a teaspoon or two or this protective syrup in the morning and at night has gotten me through many a cold and flu season feeling healthy, strong and free of the respiratory problems I used to suffer from regularly. It’s a great tea for sinus and allergy sufferers, too.

I have known many children, babies to teens, that have enjoyed the following (and other) teas, warm or cool, over the years. I hope that you will have some fun experimenting with a variety of flavors, and find many herbal teas that your kids will enjoy as much as mine have.

Tulsi Teas – from Organic India (comes in 18 flavors, you may want to try them all!)

Sweet Rose Tulsi
Sweet Lemon Tulsi
Lemon Ginger Tulsi
Chai Massala Tulsi
Pomegranate Green Tulsi
Red Mango Tulsi
Vanilla Crème Tulsi

Raspberry Peach Tulsi
Orange Mint Tulsi
Red Chai Masala Tulsi
Passionfruit Tulsi
Licorice Spice Tulsi
Honey Chamomile Tulsi
Bija Teas (distributed by Flora)
Cold Stop
Cranberry With Rooibos
Sleepwell
Hawthorn

Traditional Medicinals
Just for Kids Organic Throat Coat
Just for Kids Organic Tummy Comfort
Just for Kids Organic Nighty Night
Just for Kids Organic Cold Care
Eater’s Digest
Organic Ginger
Organic Ginger Aid
Organic Roasted Dandelion Root
Organic Chai

Organic Lemon Yerba Mate
Organic Nighty Night
Organic Rooibos with Honeybush
Organic Rose Hips
Organic Spearmint
Throat Coat
Organic Lemon Echinacea Throat Coat
Herba Tussin Herbal Tea
Breathe Easy
Cold Care PM
Gypsy Cold Care

Cran Aid
Female Toner
Organic Mother’s Milk Tea
Organic Pregnancy Tea
Organic Raspberry Leaf
Women’s Liberty Tea

Yogi Teas
African Redbush Peach
Bedtime
Berry Antioxidant
Berry Detox (soon to be released)
Breathe Deep
Calming
Organic Cold Season Tea
Detox
Egyptian Licorice
Egyptian Licorice Mint
Ginger
Himalayan Apple Spice
Honey Lemon Throat Comfort
Kava Stress Relief
Mayan Cocoa Spice
Meditative Time
Mexican Sweet Chili
Moroccan Orange Spice
Peach Detox
St. John’s wort Uplift
Stomach Ease
Tahitian Vanilla Hazelnut
Throat Comfort
Woman’s Nursing Mom
Woman’s Raspberry Leaf