By Christa Protano
Essential oils. Herbal preparations. Modern superfoods. What if we told you that these were the keys to surviving these bleak, dreary months we currently find ourselves in. I say, sign me up—my skin is dry, I’m bracing myself for the next round of cough and colds, and I’m doing all I can to eat healthier and not give in to those stubborn sugar cravings that have stuck around since Christmas.
Enter The Natural Remedies Guide. This new reference book includes pages of ideas for using natural ingredients to enhance your overall well-being. From aromatherapy to crystals, each section includes an A-to-Z compilation of the key individual components, along with details on how they can be used for basic healing, health, and lifestyle issues. Here, we’ve included just a few of the recipes and remedies you’ll find to help rescue you from your seasonal slump.
Find more healing tips and tricks in The Natural Remedies Guide.
HERBS: Calming Oatmeal & Chamomile Mask
Skin masks made from oats are likely to be more suitable for dry or sensitive skin, as they are calming and less abrasive. Oats can help add much-need moisture and nourishment to dry skin.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup chamomile flowers
1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
1 teaspoon honey
1 cup warm water
METHOD
Mixed together the dried chamomile, cooked oatmeal, and honey. Slowly pour in the warm water, taking care to stir the ingredients as you do. You’re looking to create a smooth and thick paste, so you may not need the entire cup. Apply to your skin and gently massage it in. Leave on for approx. 5 minutes, then wash clean.
AROMATHERAPY: Remedies for Cold & Coughs
- For a sore throat, add 4 to 5 drops of tea tree or Spanish sage or clary sage or thyme to a glass of warm water, mix, and gargle at least three times daily.
- Use tea tree, thyme, or eucalyptus oil in vaporizers throughout the duration of an illness, but especially at the onset of the cold. Add a few drops of one of these oils to a handkerchief for inhalation throughout the day.
- Take a daily hot bath, adding 8 to 10 drops of tea tree, rosemary, or thyme to water—this
combats congestion and fights infection. - Lavender, marjoram, or bergamot oil can also be used in baths to soothe aching limbs and encourage restful sleep.
FOOD & DRINK: Matcha Green Tea Smoothie
Drinks such as smoothies and fruit juices are a great way to get a dose of superfoods. By making your own you can be sure of exactly what ingredients are going into the drinks.
INGREDIENTS
1 ripe banana, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
1 teaspoon honey
METHOD
Put the chopped banana and match powder in your blender and combine, then add milk and honey—adding the matcha powder before the liquids will prevent unwanted clumping. Blend until smooth.
