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| To prepare a castor oil pack, start with a piece of wool flannel or a double thickness of cotton flannel about 18 inches square. A cloth diaper can be used for this purpose. Saturate the cloth with warmed castor oil, fold it to fit and apply it to the abdomen over the liver (above the navel) or, if desired, over the intestines (abdomen). Cover the pack with a sheet of plastic and place a heating pad or hot water bottle on top. If using a hot water bottle, cover everything with a towel for insulation. Leave the pack in place and keep it as hot as is comfortable for about an hour, then wipe off the excess oil and store the pack in a plastic bag. In most cases, daily treatment is recommended for one week, then intermittent treatment as desired. |
| CATNIP (Nepeta cataria). A mild stimulant, antispasmodic, sedative, carminative and antacid, catnip has long been used to treat colic, flatulence, diarrhea and spasms. Catnip tea is safe for children and infants. Combining it with ginger root reinforces its stimulant properties; blending it with chamomile or lemon balm reinforces its sedative properties. For tea, brew an infusion of 1 cup boiling water poured over 1 teaspoon dried herb or 1 tablespoon fresh herb. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes. |
| CAYENNE PEPPER (Capsicum annum). Hot peppers are a stimulant, tonic and pungent spice. They increase blood circulation, improve digestion, help relieve cramps and stop bleeding on contact. An important catalyst in herbal tea blending, cayenne pepper helps other herbs act faster. Because hot peppers burn the mouth, large doses can be placed in capsules and swallowed whole. To avoid a burning sensation in the stomach or esophagus, which may happen when you begin taking cayenne, swallow with food and follow with two large glasses of water. |
| CENTAURY (Erythraea centaurium, Centaurium erythraea). This bitter gastric stimulant improves the appetite and strengthens the liver. Recommended for anorexia and dyspepsia, centaury improves circulation and has a tonic effect on the blood vessels. |
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