It’s summer! Which means two things: there’s an abundance of plant friends around and I’m constantly reaching for band-aids. Ever wonder how we can use the green healers around us for our kids’ numerous summertime childhood ailments? Over at Little Tree Wellness, Appleseed’s friend Jazmine Stinson shares her favourite common herbs that help her family during their summer (or even year-round) woes:
Chamomile: Chamomile is gentle and soothing, making it great for kids. It is used to treat many conditions including: aches and pains from the flu, common cold, teething, motion sickness, inflamed skin, anxiety, restlessness, loss of appetite and allergies. (Hoffmann, 2003). Favourite ways to use: hot/herbal tea, floral bath mix and hydrosols.
Lavender: Lavender is acclaimed for its soothing and calming benefits. It can be effective in alleviating cramps, spasms, stress, anxiety, sleep troubles, pain and headaches. It is a mild antidepressant and helps to restore the nervous system (Hoffmann 1990, 2003) and balance the body (Romm, 2010). Favourite way to use: hot/iced tea, floral bath mix, herbal facial steam, aromatic herb pillow and house sprays.
Calendula: Calendula (pictured) is brilliant for healing skin conditions that are inflamed, irritated and infected. It soothes and provides relief from dry skin and lips, diaper rash, eczema, wounds, bruising, cuts and minor burns (Hoffmann 2003). Internally, Calendula is helpful for treating upset stomachs, inflamed lymph nodes and gums, and has antibacterial properties! (Romm, 2010). Favourite way to use: herbal oil infusion, herbal bath mix, tincture and topical salves.
Lemon Balm: Lemon Balm is a beautifully smelling and delicious mint family herb. It promotes calmness and helps uplift the spirit. It is useful in combination for promoting sleep and relaxation, stress reduction, healing cold sores, easing tension headaches, reducing fever and easing tummy ache. Favourite way to use: herbal ice pops, fresh in salads, hot/iced tea.
For more information about herbal medicine contact Jazmine Stinson, RH, CN at: jazmine@littletreewellness.com, or www.littletreewellness.com. Follow Little Tree Wellness on Instagram @littletreewellness or Facebook @littletreewellnessandapothecary.