Natural Healing Remedies

Written By Nicole Gable

I’ve spent my entire career in the Pharmaceutical industry- I’ve been with my current company almost 10 years!!! And PROUD to be there supporting Science and Western Medicine! That said, I am totally into Eastern Medicine and using Natural Remedies when I can and in addition to modern science. One of the things I loved about my training at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition is that it helped me integrate the two philosophies.

Natural oils, leaves and roots have been used for centuries to support healing. Many have powerful antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help prevent infections and illness. What’s so great about many of these remedies is that the ingredients can often be found right in your home.

HERBS, ROOTS AND EXTRACTS

  • Aloe gel may help moisturize the skin and soothe sunburns.

  • Ashwagangha Root is used in traditional Ayurveda and may help alleviate stress and regulate hormones- Great for managing Perimenopause or Menopause symptoms too!

  • Black walnut extract may support wound treatment and decrease the risk

    of infection.

  • Citricidal (also known as grapefruit seed extract) may help support skin health and clear yeast infections.

  • Echinacea root may shorten the length of a cold and provide a calming effect.

  • Oil of Wild Oregano for healthy immune support.

  • Raw garlic bulb supports hearth health and a healthy blood pressure and may reduce the risk of some cancers.

  • Fresh ginger root may help alleviate nausea and vomiting, especially during pregnancy.

  • Honeysuckle flower may help reduce inflammation.

  • Isatis root may help reduce psoriasis symptoms and soothe itchy skin.

  • Olive leaf extract may help support a healthy blood pressure.

  • Tea tree oil may help reduce acne and fungal infections.

    Note: Some substances may interact with medications and may not be appropriate for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Always talk with your physician before adding any of these to your routine.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils have antiviral activity. They are very concentrated substances, so only small amounts are needed. Essential oils are often diluted in other oils or water. They can also be added to a diffuser to provide antiviral benefits and aromatherapy.

Here are some common essential oils.

  • Eucalyptus

  • Lavender

  • Lemon

  • Clove

  • Thyme

  • Peppermint

  • Oregano

  • Tea tree

    Note: While essential oils are natural and can help support health, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their physician before incorporating them into their wellness routine.

ESSENTIAL OIL MIXTURES

Although essential oils can work well on their own, some specific combinations may work together to provide health benefits. Mixtures can be added to a diffuser, mixed with another carrier (like apricot, castor, or olive oil), used in the bath, or placed directly onto a compress. Keep in mind that some are best diluted before being applied to the skin due to their concentration level.

1| Antimicrobial essential oil combination:
Add 1 drop of tea tree, 1 drop of thyme, and 1 drop of eucalyptus to a damp cloth and apply to the skin.

2| Flu relief:
Add 1 drop of clove and 2 drops of lavender to a diffuser.

3| Natural bug repellent:
Add 15 drops of citronella, 15 drops of peppermint, and 15 drops of lemon eucalyptus to a spray bottle with 1/2 cup of witch hazel and a small amount of water and olive oil.

4| To clear up nasal congestion:
Add 1 or 2 drops of peppermint and 1 drop of eucalyptus to a tissue or handkerchief. Bring the tissue to your nose and breathe in; avoid applying directly to the skin as it may cause irritation.

DIETARY SHIFTS TO SUPPORT NATURAL HEALING

Essential oils, herbs, roots, and individuals foods can help us heal when we’re trying to address a particular concern, but they won’t take the place of consuming a well-rounded diet of whole foods.

Focusing on a nutritious diet can help reduce both how often we get sick and how long we are sick for.

Remember: A nutritious diet also helps support healthy skin and digestion and reduce inflammation in the body.

Here are a few shifts that may help support natural healing!

AVOID

  • Fried foods

  •   Simple sugars, including maple syrup, molasses, rapadura, barley malt, rice syrup,

    date sugar, and agave syrup

  •   Excess red meat, especially feedlot beef

  •   Refined carbohydrates, such as white flour, white sugar, and whole wheat products (unless sprouted)

  •   Alcoholic beverages

EAT

  • Berries, pomegranates, lemons, and limes

  •   Vegetables, especially leafy greens

  •   Protein in the form of well-cooked beans, bean sprouts, Legumes, peas, and lentils

  •   Wild fish (low-mercury types), organic poultry.

  •   Soups and stews

  •   Whole-grain and sprouted bread and grains, such as buckwheat, millet, quinoa, amaranth, and Farro.

  •   Roasted pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds, and almonds

  •   Minced garlic, raw onion, radishes, and mushrooms

  •   Flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and olive oil in small quantities

  •   Seaweeds, such as kombu, wakame, and nori flakes

OTHER NATUAL TIPS TO SUPPORT NATURAL HEALING:

  • Reestablish good flora in the intestinal tract with probiotic-rich foods.

  • Try different foods to determine the diet that works best for you.

  • Enhance digestion and immunity with regular physical activity.

  • When feeling run-down, take the time to cleanse by removing irritants from the diet and focusing on detoxing foods, like leafy greens.

With the cold winter months approaching, it’s the perfect time to experiment with these natural home remedies. Let me know what you’re enjoying!! xo

Nicole

Nicole Gable
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