Tag: antimicrobial
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Wormwood Monograph
TOXIC herb requiring extreme caution. Thujone causes seizures, organ damage, death. Professional supervision essential. Maximum 2-4 weeks use. Gentler alternatives (dandelion, gentian, blessed thistle) preferred for digestive support. Historical significance (absinthe) but rarely used in modern practice. Essential oil highly toxic—never use internally.digestive-support
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Rue Monograph
TOXIC herb causing severe photodermatitis (skin burns in sunlight), abortion, liver/kidney damage. Historical use only—NO safe modern applications. Furanocoumarins cause blistering after sun exposure. Abortifacient effects dangerous and unreliable. All traditional uses have safer alternatives. Educational purposes only—DO NOT USE.
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Myrrh Monograph
Sacred resin with powerful antimicrobial and astringent properties. Traditional medicine and spiritual use. Supports oral health, wound healing, and respiratory conditions. Often combined with frankincense. Bitter, warming resin. Ancient medicine meeting modern applications. Used as tincture or topical preparation. Requires quality sourcing.
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Nasturtium Monograph
Edible flower with antimicrobial and respiratory support. All parts edible—flowers, leaves, seeds. Peppery taste indicates mustard oil content. Supports immune function and respiratory health. Easy to grow, prolific self-seeder. Adds beauty and medicine to gardens. Free food and medicine growing abundantly in many NZ gardens.
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Juniper Monograph
Aromatic evergreen with diuretic and antimicrobial properties. Berries support urinary tract health. Traditional remedy for infections and inflammation. Essential oil used topically and in aromatherapy. Requires moderation—strong medicine. Contraindicated in pregnancy and kidney disease. Flavours gin. Powerful plant requiring respect and appropriate use.
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Oregano Monograph
Powerful antimicrobial herb supporting immune and respiratory health. Volatile oils provide strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. Traditional Mediterranean cooking and medicine. Fresh or dried herb makes strong medicinal tea. Essential oil highly concentrated. Culinary herb delivering significant medicinal benefits. Easy to grow in NZ gardens.
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Cayenne Monograph
Powerful circulatory stimulant and topical pain reliever. Capsaicin depletes substance P for lasting pain relief in arthritis, neuropathy, chronic pain. Warms cold extremities, supports cardiovascular health, stimulates metabolism. Research-validated topical analgesic. Start with tiny amounts—intensely hot. Handle carefully to avoid eye contact.
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Clove Monograph
Powerful antimicrobial spice with notable pain-relieving properties. Traditional remedy for toothache and oral health. Eugenol provides antiseptic and analgesic effects. Supports digestion and immune function. Used in dental preparations, chai, and warming formulations. Strong medicine requiring moderate use. Essential oil highly concentrated, use cautiously.
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Rosemary Monograph
Aromatic Mediterranean herb supporting memory, circulation, and digestion. Antioxidant properties protect brain and cardiovascular system. Traditional remedy for mental clarity. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Easy to grow in NZ. Culinary herb delivering daily medicinal benefits. Essential addition to herbal medicine cabinet and kitchen.
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Cinnamon Monograph
Warming spice supporting blood sugar balance and circulation. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties benefit metabolic and immune health. Supports healthy insulin response and cardiovascular function. Delicious in food, tea, and preparations. Daily use provides preventative health benefits. Kitchen staple offering powerful therapeutic support alongside flavour.