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| is more practical and can be used as a stimulating massage for muscular aches and pains. Use 10 drops of juniper oil to 1 tablespoon of almond oil and massage affected areas every two to three hours. An essential oil is also made from dry-distilling the heartwood of various juniper species. Known as "cade oil," this substance is highly aromatic and antiseptic and is a useful remedy for various skin problems. Add 20 drops to 1 quart of hot water and use as a hair rinse for dandruff, scaling eczema or psoriasis affecting the scalp. |
| Cautions: Prolonged use of juniper can irritate the kidneys, and any preparation containing the herb should not be taken internally for longer than six weeks without professional advice. It should not be taken internally at all by those suffering from kidney disease, and high doses must be avoided in pregnancy. |
| Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) |
| Lavender has been used to scent baths and toiletries since Roman times. In Arabic medicine, the herb is still used today as an expectorant and remedy for chest problems. |
| Description: A flowering shrub with downy, pointed, gray-green leaves and tall stems (up to 15 inches long) bearing tiny lilac to purple flowers. |
| Parts used: Flowers, essential oil. |
| Actions: Analgesic, antibacterial, antidepressant, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, circulatory stimulant, relaxant, tonic for the nervous system. |
| Uses: Lavender is useful for digestive upsets, nervous tension, insomnia, migraines, and headaches. The flowers can be made into a pleasant-tasting tea taken at night for sleeplessness or during the day for headaches and nervous tension. The same tea will also help to cool feverish conditions, encouraging sweating and thus lowering the body temperature. Use 2 teaspoons of lavender flowers to a cup of boiling water and sweeten with a little honey if required. An |
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