Day 170/365 – On Damiana

6/19/17 Damiana is touted as the classic aphrodisiac herb. But did you know it’s mechanism is mostly attributed to nourishing the nervous system, which in turn can put people ‘in the mood.’ Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca/diffusa) Aromatic, spicy herb Nervous system tonic, for stagnant depression Strengthens hormonal and nervous system History of aphrodisiac use – stimulate […]

Day 169/365 – On Lavender

6/18/17 Today I’m focusing on Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). This well-known herb is a popular choice for dish soap, bath soaks, aromatherapy and has many other household and therapeutic uses. Antibacterial, antiviral, antidepressant, carminative, nervine Antispasmodic, soothing to gut – treats dysbiosis, diarrhea, gas, nausea Aids digestion ‘Stagnant depression” – combine with damiana, holy basil, rosemary […]

Day 168/365 – On Lemon Balm

6/17/17 The stress-busting herb of the day is Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis). Here are some highlights: Diaphoretic (makes you sweat) – indicated for sweaty hands and feet – nervous tension Antiviral – HSV (herpes simplex virus) activated when stressed (usually dormant/latent in trigeminal nerve) Calming, cooling, soothing to gut – carminative (doesn’t increase hydrochloric acid […]

Day 167/365 – On Catnip

6/16/17 Today I’m talking about the herb that goes hand-in-hand with chamomile’s uses, but with some contrasting qualities. You may all know catnip (Nepeta cataria) as the herb that drives cats wild. It’s acts as a euphoric or aphrodisiac for acts, while it calms us humans down. Catnip is also nutritionally dense – rich in […]