Goldenseal Tea

 Goldenseal Tea (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal is a common and powerful herb that
is good for assisting the immune system in warding off
colds and flu. It is a Native American plant and was widely
used by Native Americans, particularly the Iroquois and
Cherokee. Goldenseal has a reputation for being a cureall
and has been known as an effective antibiotic. It is
also useful for diarrhea and yeast infections. Goldenseal
is an endangered species, so be sure your tea comes from
a reputable source. You can find reputable companies on
the Internet. Goldenseal should not be used by pregnant
women or people with heart conditions. Some authorities
think it raises blood pressure.
Goldenseal may be used as a tonic and a detoxifier. It is
useful for respiratory infections and mucous membrane infections,
as well as for diarrhea and intestinal infections.
Goldenseal may help diabetes, yeast infections, periodontal
disease, eye disease, and liver problems in alcoholics. It is
a popular treatment for urinary tract infections. Goldenseal
has natural antibiotic properties. It helps to kill the harmful
bacteria in your system.
Here are some more uses for goldenseal tea: boost immune
system, stimulate appetite, anti-inflammatory, eye
infections, peptic ulcers, colitis, anorexia, and irritable
bowel syndrome. Use as an eyewash or as a douche for
yeast infections in women. Gargling with goldenseal heals
canker sores in the mouth and eases sore throats. Don’t use
if you’re taking blood thinning drugs like Coumadin; don’t
use if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Suggestions for use: 
Take with meals
ƒ Honey sweetens the bitter taste

One last word. Goldenseal is an endangered species. Wildcrafting goldenseal is not advised. Be sure you get your goldenseal from  a reputable source.

Goldenseal Tea from the Root

Simmer 1 teaspoon of dried root in 8 ounces of boiling
water for 10–20 minutes. Enjoy.

Goldenseal Tea

Goldenseal Tea from Tea Bags

1–2 goldenseal tea bags
Honey or another sweetener of choice
1-2 cups of boiling water
Pour boiling water over the tea bag and let steep for 5 minutes.
Add sweetener to taste.

Goldenseal Lemon Peppermint Tea

1 goldenseal tea bag
1 lemon tea bag or ½ squeezed lemon
1 peppermint tea bag (to flavor the bitter taste)
Sweetener to taste
Pour boiling water over the tea bags in a large cup or small
teapot and let steep for 5 minutes. Add sweetener to taste

Question: Have you ever used goldenseal tea? How did you like it? Your comments are welcome.

-- Valerie Lull
Author, Ten Healtlhy Teas
Web Site: www.valerielull.com

Uses for Catnip

Catnip

Catnip which is also called catmint and catswort, belongs to the mint family of herbs. I like catnip because of the euphoric state it induces in my cat, but I also like it for what it does for me. No, it will not make one euphoric, that seems to be a feline thing, but it does have some health benefits for humans.

Catnip grows in the northern hemisphere in the milder climates and the plants have fuzzy, green leaves and a flower that is small and white. The latin name is Nepeta cataria. The leaves and stems are used for herbal preparations. These include, teas, infusions, tinctures, and extracts. You can grow your own catnip or buy it from a reputable dealer. 

Some of the benefits of catnip for humans include anxiety, digestive problems, insomnia, nervousness and calming down overactive children. One of the ingredients in catnip is Nepatalactone which is what causes the sedative effect in humans. Catnip also useful as a pesticide that repels certain insects. 

Catnip Tea

Catnip can be brewed in a tea. Here is the recipe:

1 t catnip

1 C boiling water

Put catnip herb in the water and let it steep 5 minutes for a tea and 10 minutes for an infusion. (An infusion is a stronger brew that is used for therapeutic purposes.) Drink up to three times a day. Enjoy!

Catnip can be purchased in loose form or in capsuels. It can also be used as a poltice, or a wash.

Question: Do you prefer catnip tea or mint tea? Why?

Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com 

Valerie Lull

Author: Ten  Healthy Teas

www.lullval@hotmail.com