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Healing From the Garden of the Gods

“Expect your every need to be met, expect the answer to every problem, expect abundance on every level, expect to grow spiritually” – Eileen Caddy

GARLIC

Any garlic has good antibacterial, antifungal, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulant properties and is an antioxidant. At least nine epidemiological studies show that garlic significantly decreases the incidence of cancer, especially cancers of the gastrointestinal tract.


It is good for reducing cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, reducing blood pressure, improving circulation and helping to prevent yeast infections, cancers, colds and flu. The reputation of garlic as a vampire repellent goes back long before Stoker’s gothic creation, Dracula.

Why should garlic ward off vampires specifically rather than all un-dead monsters? One theory is that vampirism can be seen as symbolic of mosquito bites – and garlic is known in folklore as a natural mosquito repellent: mosquitoes, as do vampires, suck blood and in doing so spread disease while some of the symptoms of malaria are reminiscent of the reputed effects of being bitten by a vampire without being totally drained or turned.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garlic‎ for an example of the Garlic plant]

BASIL

The leaves, juice and seeds of basil have many medicinal properties. As a nerve tonic the chewing of 12 leaves of basil twice a day afford significant protection against stress; it purifies the blood and sharpens memory. It promotes the mobilization and removal of phlegm from the bronchial tubes.

It strengthens the stomach. Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken for a sore throat to gargle; a few chewed leaves are also effective for mouth infections. Basil is beneficial in cardiac disease and reduces the level of blood cholesterol.

The juice of basil leaves has a strengthening effect on the kidneys and in case of renal stones, the juice taken with honey regularly for 6 months, will expel them via the urinary tract. Common pediatric problems like coughs, colds, fever, diarrhea and vomiting respond favorably to the juice of basil leaves.

Applied locally, basil juice is beneficial in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases; it is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night-blindness generally caused by a vitamin A deficiency, by putting two drops of basil juice into the eyes at bedtime. [See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basil‎ for an example of the Basil plant]

FENNEL

It is taken internally for menstrual disorders PMS and water retention; bloating; upset stomach; dyspepsia; colic; coughs; increasing milk for nursing mother; promoting function of the liver, kidneys and spleen; and clearing the lungs.

A hot infusion or tea is made from either the seeds or the leaves or both: put 20mg seeds/leaves in 60 -120ml boiling water, let steep for 10 minutes and drink. It is traditionally used for obesity, where enkindling the digestion and metabolism are also warranted. It can also be used for retarding the appearance of wrinkles and as a cleaning tonic for oily skin.

In the Middle Ages Fennel was an important supernatural remedy against witchcraft.  It is an excellent example of an aromatic herb that works to open channels that allow vital energy to flow.

[See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fennel for an example of the Fennel plant]

MINT

Medicinally, mint is used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid digestion. Mint kills some types of bacteria, fungus and viruses, suggesting it may have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.

Because it has a calming and numbing effect, it has been used to treat headaches by applying the oil to the forehead and temples; skin irritations caused by poisonous plants; anxiety associated with depression; nausea, diarrhea, flatulence; and it is used to treat symptoms of the common cold in that its main active agent, menthol, is an effective decongestant – a good expectorant that helps to loosen phlegm and breaks up coughing; it is soothing and calming for sore throats and dry coughs.

Mint tea is made by steeping 1 teaspoon of fresh or dried leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes; strain and cool. Drink 4 – 5 times per day between meals.

[See http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/mint-info.htm for an example of the Mint plant]

PARSLEY

Parsley protects the liver and intestines against cancer, is anti-rheumatic, a stimulant of digestion, of kidneys by eliminating toxins and kidney stones.  Moreover, parsley seeds stimulate fertility, helps against dependency upon alcohol and against brain tumours. It acts as an antioxidant, eliminating toxins and maintaining the elas-ticity of blood vessels, it is a general stimulant, diuretic, antiseptic, anti-infectious.

Between 25-30 mg of parsley a day is enough to provide the daily dosage of vitamin C (parsley contains more vitamin C than citrus or any other fruit); it also has abundant quantities of the vitamine A (for beauty), B, E (for elasticity), K, beta-carotene and the minerals magnesium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, sodium, potassium, sulphur and calcium.

Two large spoonfuls of parsley are to be put in 2 cups of hot water, steeped for an hour, sieved and con-sumed three times a day before meals. Parsley has multiple cosmetic effects and an infusion of it can be used as a face tonic.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parsley‎ for examples of the Parsley plant]

ROSEMARY

One of Rosemary’s very valuable benefits is its wonderful detoxification capabilities by boosting the function of the liver – dangerous toxins are deactivated while the plant helps to flush them out of the liver; a healthy liver not only helps you feel fresher but also energizes you, leads to clarity of mind and a smooth flow of thought. Therefore, this plant is said to improve memory and also produces an impairment of the speed of memory recollection

To calm down any discomfort in the digestive system, rosemary tea can be consumed after meals. The tea is made by boiling a few clippings of fresh rosemary in clean water until the water becomes a light green colour, add 3 teaspoons of organic honey and a dash of powdered cinnamon. Rosemary also helps against stomach cramps, indigestion, rheumatism and inflammation in joints, muscles and tendons.

In the Middle Ages Rosemary was seen as a love charm. It was also believed that placing a sprig of rosemary under one’s pillow before sleep will repel nightmares and if placed outside the home it will repel witches.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosemary for examples of the plant]

THYME

The leaves and stems of Thyme has been prescribed by herbalists for intestinal worms, gastrointestinal ailments, bronchial problems, lack of appetite, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, the common cold and laryngitis. In Germany it is used to treat whooping cough and emphysema.

It has also shown to be useful for colic, excess gas, sore throats and as a hangover remedy. For gastric issues or bronchitis, make a tea of 1 teaspoon leaves to a cup of boiling water and steep for 10-15 minutes; add small amounts of honey to sweeten, if desired and use only once a day.

Burning thyme can repel insects and a dilution of thyme oil can be used externally as a deodorant and antiseptic that will prevent mildew. An ointment made with thyme leaves has been used to treat warts, to sooth discomfort associated with gout and killing worms internally.

Danish and German folklore list patches of wild thyme as a favourite place to find fairies. Thyme oil was a major component of an ‘ungent’ which enabled the user to see fairies but only if the thyme was gathered “…neare the side of a hill where fayries used to be”.

[See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyme for examples of the plant]

“What was paradise, but a garden full of pleasure? Nothing there but delights”.

CARNATION

Carnations contain substances that soothe the nervous system, reduce inflammation and swelling and can help restore natural hormonal balances in women. The flowers can also be used to reduce muscle tension in uterine tissues, reducing the discomfort of menstrual cramps.

Carnation oils have therapeutic benefits for the treatment of skin rashes and act like a conditioner for the skin. Many women use carnation oil to treat and minimize the appearance of facial wrinkles and conditions such as rosacea and eczema. In massage oils, Carnations are used to promote healing and increase vitality of the skin while the scent of the oils have a soothing effect.

To make a tea, add 2 teaspoons of dried or fresh flower petals to a cup of boiling water; let steep for 10-15 minutes, strain, add 1 teaspoon honey and drink.

[See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dianthus_caryophyllus for examples of the flower]

HIBISCUS

African folk medicine uses hibiscus as a diuretic, to relieve pressure in the gallbladder, to relax the uterus; as a  mild laxative and to treat weeping eczema.

Regular consumption of hibiscus teas often lowers blood pressure. Hibiscus is the source of the hydroxycitric acid (HCA) used in many diet formulas, the compound of which has been used to fight obesity –  HCA helps with weight loss when used with a program of general calorie-restriction/ reducing consumption of carbs, proteins and fats equally).

Teas made from hibiscus flowers, known as sour teas, can help regulate high blood pressure, can lower cholesterol levels and blood glucose levels.

To brew your own tea at home, place either the calyx of one flower or the calyx with the petals in a teapot and pour 8oz boiling water over them. Let the tea steep for at least five minutes. Remove the calyx with a spoon and discard all parts of the flower before drinking. When using dried ingredients, pour one cup of boiling water over 2 teaspoon of the herb, steep for 5-10 minutes and strain; you may add on both counts a bit of honey.

Among the North American Indians, the hibiscus is known as the Rose of Sharon and symbolizes the perfect bride: fruitful, beautiful and one with God. The hibiscus flower is also regarded as a tribal tattoo and it represents  old royalty, is meant to bring power and respect and is a sign of hospitality.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibiscus‎ for examples of this flower]

LAVENDER

Dried lavender flowers are used to prepare a series of natural remedies with antiseptic, calming and relaxing effects. Lavender flowers contain tannin, mineral substances and essential oils and have therefore an antiseptic, calming and carminative activity as well as nerve-stimulating effects. They are used in cases of digestive disorder, in hypertension, cardiac affections, headaches, insomnia, melancholia, dizziness or bronchial asthma.

Lavender tea is prepared with two teaspoons of flowers to a cup of boiling water, drink hot and sweetened with honey.  Concentrated tea obtained from 5-6 spoonfuls of herb, that are macerated in a cup of boiling water, is used for treating superficial burns or light wounds.

A few drops of Lavender oil can also be used for treating headaches by massaging the temples; for clearing nostrils and in cases of insomnia due to stress, it is best to put a few drops of lavender oil on the pillow.

In housekeeping, lavender is a good insecticide. During summer it is recommended to have a few drops of sunflower oil mixed with a few drops of lavender oil and to massage the exposed parts of the body. Pouches of dry lavender put in cupboards and drawers among clothes will keep moths away.

Lavender was believed by the Tuscans to counteract the evil eye and is supposed to be an ingredient for love spells; carrying lavender on your person brings strength and courage.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lavandula for examples of the flower]‎

“The seed I plant under the ground is now prepared to rise above the mound”.

ANISESEED

In traditional medicine, Anise is used to calm upset stomachs, help reduce gas and its effectiveness in treating stomach cramps has been proven scientifically. Aniseed is potently therapeutic and can be used to invigorate the mind and stimulate the circulation – in ancient times it was used to increase libido.

Its expectorant properties are useful in treating respiratory infections where steam inhalation will ease hay fever, head colds and bronchial complaints such as asthma; inhaling also enhances relaxation and soothes sleeping patterns, relieves stress from overwork and eases heartache; its antiseptic qualities help flavour the breath and keep teeth clean.

A herbal tea is prepared by adding 7 teaspoons of aniseed to a quart of boiling water, allow to steep by letting it simmer until content is reduced to 1 pint of liquid. Strain the liquid and add four teaspoons of honey and glycerin, while the water is still warm. To bring relief from hacking and persistent coughs, take two teaspoons of this syrup once about every few hours.

This herbal syrup can also be used to strengthen memory functions by taking two tablespoons thrice every day for a few months. To treat skin problems, drink two teaspoons of the herbal tea without the honey and glycerine.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anise for examples of Aniseed]

PUMPKIN PIPS

Dried or roasted pumpkin seeds are high in calories that come mainly from protein and fats and are packed with fibre, vitamins, minerals and numerous health-promoting antioxidants. They are rich in: unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) that helps lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the blood; good quality protein.

They are an excellent source of: amino acids; the antioxidant vitamin E that prevents tissue cells from the free radical mediated oxidant injury; B-complex group of vitamins. They contain: good levels of essential minerals like copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

Research studies suggest that pumpkin seeds have dihydro epi-androstenedione (DHEA) blocking actions. This may be helpful in preventing prostate and ovarian cancers. Other studies suggest that certain phytochemical compounds in pumpkin seed oil may play a role in the prevention of diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease).

[See http://avlazra.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/pumpkin-seeds-natural-antioxidant-as-skin-wrinkles-antidote/ for an example of pumpkin fruit and seeds]

SUNFLOWER SEEDS

The seeds are rich in oil, are loaded with vitamin E and therefore a handful of dry roasted seeds every day will give you the required amount of Vitamin E your body needs to stay healthy. The seeds have diuretic and expectorant properties and have been employed in the treatment of bronchial, laryngeal and pulmonary affections, coughs and colds and also in whooping cough.

The following preparation is recommended: boil 2 oz of the seeds in 1 quart of water until the liquid has lessened to 12 oz and then strain. Add 6 oz of good Holland gin and 6 oz of sugar. Give in doses of 1 to 2 teaspoons three or four times a day. If browned in the oven and then made into an infusion, the seeds will also bring relief of whooping cough.

To different races the Sunflower is a sign of positivity. Happiness, good health and hope represent the sun to certain elven tribes and they call the flowers Séean’efér, meaning Globes of Fire. The hobbits of the Elverground make use of the bountiful crop of seeds to make a distinctive bread baked in clay ovens, otherwise they are ground and mixed with honey or sugar syrups to make a sort of sweet cracker that is then topped with other small grains.

In Peru, this flower was much revered by the Aztecs and in their temples of the Sun, the priestesses were crowned with sunflowers.

[Please see http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-sunflower-seeds-for-skin-hair-and-health/ for examples of the plant, flower and seeds]

“Plants have a resonant frequency, in which lies healing effects”

CINNAMON

Cinnamon bark can be used to treat diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, gastroenteritis, colds and influenza, hypertension, arthritis, rheumatism, and fungal infections by making a tea or infusion as follows: Pour 500ml near-boiling water over a few pieces of bark (75gm fresh or 30 gm dried) and let steep 5-10 minutes. The infusion must be taken the same day that it was made. It may be sweetened, but do not add milk.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamon‎ for examples of this spice]

CLOVES

Cloves have anodyne, antiemetic, antiseptic, anti-nauseous, aphrodisiac, carminative and stimulative properties. Cloves aid digestion, allay flatulence, nausea and/or vomiting, stop hiccoughs, and treat impotence. Used for colds, coughs, asthma, laryngitis, pharyngitis and low blood pressure. Cloves are mildly aphrodisiac.

The volatile oil is a powerful analgesic. Clove oil or a whole clove will stop the pain of a toothache when dropped into a cavity; a few drops of the oil in water will stop nausea and vomiting.

[See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clove for examples of the spice]

GINGER 

Ginger can be used to reduce inflammation, helps with digestion, improves cardiovascular health, enhances the immune system and is a powerful detoxification substance. Consumption of ginger helps with blood circulation and has anti-inflammatory qualities that ease arthritis and other body aches and pains.

It increases the body’s production of saliva and other digestive fluids, which relieves an upset stomach and supports healthy digestion. Speeding up digestion helps to clean the kidneys and bowels and to remove toxins from the body. It also helps to ease morning and motion sickness as well as nausea.

To make ginger tea, heat 1 cup water to just short of boiling; add ½ teasp ground ginger or 4 medium slices of fresh ginger root and 1 teaspoon of honey to the hot water. Allow the liquid to steep for 10 to 15 minutes before drinking.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger for examples of this root‎]

“The truth lies within yourself. Discover it”.

APPLES

Research suggests that apples may reduce the risk of colon, prostate and lung cancer – there is evidence from laboratory experiments that apples possess phenolic compounds, which may be protective against cancer and it demonstrates an apple’s antioxidant activity.

Compared to many other fruits and vegetables, apples contain relatively low amounts of vitamin C, but are a rich source of other antioxidant compounds, which prevents damage to cells and tissues of the human body. The fibre content, while less than in most other fruits, helps regulate bowel movements and may thus reduce the risk of colon cancer; it may also help with heart disease, weight loss and to control cholesterol.

The health benefits of the apple cider vinegar and honey drink are widely known. It is a remedy for the following ailments: premature aging, obesity, heat exhaustion, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and will detoxify the system.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple for examples of the fruit]

APRICOT

Research shows that apricots possess the highest levels of carotenoids, an antioxidant that may help prevent heart disease, reduce high cholesterol levels and protect against cancer. In traditional medicine, apricots are considered helpful in regenerating body fluids, detoxifying the body and quenching thirst.

Apricots contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and Folate (folic acid). The high iron content of apricots is good in fighting anaemia while pectin and cellulose act as mild laxatives. The fruit can also help to reduce fever by preparing it with water and a little honey.

The stone of the apricot contains a nut that is rich in protein and fat, with a high content of Vitamin B17, which is reportedly very effective in preventing cancer. However, the kernel can be toxic if misused since they contain cyanide as well. The juice contained in the leaves of the tree, when pulped, can help relieve sunburn, eczema and scabies.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apricot for examples of the fruit]

AVOCADO

The avocado has a mono-unsaturated fatty acid content of 20% – this, coupled with its incredible nutritional value, boost metabolism and can therefore reduce appetite. Avocado contains minerals such as potassium, iron and copper, which are beneficial for the blood, as well as phosphorus and magnesium; it’s packed with vitamins A, several of the B-complex vitamins especially B3 (folic acid) as well as C and E, which are powerful anti-oxidants. The low sodium and sugar content and the absence of starch makes it an ideal fruit for diabetics and hypoglycemics.

The high potassium and foliate content in avocado helps to regulate blood pressure, pro-tect the body against circulatory diseases, heart problems and strokes; it improves cholesterol levels, aids muscle activity, improves nerve function and boosts energy; prevents and heals both stomach and duodenal ulcers.

The potent anti-oxidant content in avocado helps neutralize free radicals that are important for improved eyesight, preventing eye problems such as astigmatism, cataracts and glaucoma. Regular consumption of avocados strengthens the immune system.

The pulp promotes menstruation; hastens the suppuration of wounds and prevents infection; soothes sunburned skin; lubricates the intestines and prevents constipation; moistens the lungs against lung dryness; nourishes the blood and improves blood factors. Pulverized seeds or bark, mixed with the pulp of the fruit can be applied as an counterirritant and a piece of the seed placed in the cavity of the tooth relieves toothaches.

The rind of the fruit can be used as a liniment in inter-costal neuralgia; the leaves are effective as an anti-diabetic, anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory while tea made from the leaves and bark of the tree are used against diarrhea and dysentery. Oil extracted from the fruit is widely used in preparation of beauty products, which prevents the aging effect of dehydration.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avocado‎ for examples of the fruit]

BANANA

Bananas contain a high dose of potassium, which is an essential ingredient for keeping the heart and nervous system in good shape. Benefits to the kidneys and bones are also due to its high potassium content – a normal intake of potassium suppresses calcium excretion in the urine and minimizes the risk of kidney stones; for the same reason it minimizes the loss of calcium from the body and thereby reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

Bananas contain tryptophan and Vitamin B6 that helps the body to produce serotonin, which has a calming effect on the brain, acts as a mild sedative and helps the body to make hemoglobin – a crucial ingredient of the blood; vitamins A and B, dietary fibre, magnesium, iron and calcium; and are rich in niacin and riboflavin.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banana for examples of the fruit‎]

LEMON

Lemons are packed with numerous health-benefiting nutrients and are low in calories, contain no saturated fats or cholesterol and are rich in dietary fibre. Its sour taste is due to 8% citric acid present in the juice that is a natural preservative and aids digestion – studies have found that citric acid helps to dissolve kidney stones. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful water soluble natural anti-oxidant.

Lemons also contain a variety of phytochemicals that have a bio-active effect on human health; small levels of Vitamin A required for maintaining healthy skin, mucus membranes and is essential for vision; the B-complex vitamins essential for the body; healthy amounts of the minerals iron, copper, potassium and calcium.

Phyto-chemical antioxidants, soluble and insoluble dietary fibre in lemons are helpful in reducing the risk of cancer, chronic diseases like arthritis, obesity and coronary heart diseases.

[See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemon‎ for examples of the fruit]

By Caeli Francisco, HumansAreFree.com;