If you’ve ever felt parched on a hot day or during a long walk, you might be surprised to learn that liquorice root—yes, the same herb often used for coughs and digestion—has been used for centuries to help reduce thirst.

A Travel Companion Through the Ages

Ancient travellers, soldiers, and desert nomads often carried liquorice root with them, not just for flavour, but for its unique ability to help the body retain water and soothe dry mouths. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic practices, and even in ancient Egypt, liquorice was prized as a tonic for endurance and dryness.

The Science Behind It

The secret lies in a natural compound called glycyrrhizin, which affects how your kidneys handle hormones. Glycyrrhizin slows the breakdown of cortisol, allowing it to act like aldosterone, a hormone that signals your body to hold on to sodium and water. This helps prevent dehydration by reducing how much fluid your body loses, and in turn, you feel less thirsty.

Moisture for the Mouth

Liquorice also boosts saliva production, making it a helpful ally for those who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia) or just want some comfort during long stretches without water. It’s especially handy during fasting, outdoor activities, or travel in warm weather.

How to Use It

Liquorice root can be consumed in several forms depending on your preference and needs:

• As a tea, brewed from dried root slices for a gentle, soothing effect.

• As a tincture, for a more concentrated and fast-acting dose.

• In powdered form, either in capsules or blended into herbal mixes.

• Chewed as a dried root stick, a traditional method that stimulates saliva and gives a sweet taste on the go.
  Each form has its strengths, and I can help you choose the right one for your lifestyle and health goals.

A Word of Caution

Liquorice root is powerful—and like all herbs, it’s best used with care. It’s not suitable for everyone, especially if you have high blood pressure, low potassium, or take certain medications.
Not sure if liquorice is right for you? You’re welcome to ask me. I’ll help you decide whether it’s a good fit for your health and how to use it safely.

~~ Both the tincture and the dried Liquorice Root can be bought from us. The herb can also be used to brew a tea.

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Iron deficiency is a common concern for many women, especially those experiencing heavy menstruation. Low iron levels can leave you feeling fatigued, weak, and even lightheaded. But how do you choose the right supplement to support your iron levels? At Herbs for Health, we stock two excellent options: Iron Gummies from New Leaf Products and Nettle Tincture.

Iron Gummies: A Quick Fix for Low Iron

If you need to replenish your iron levels quickly, Iron Gummies from New Leaf Products are a great option. They provide a direct, absorbable source of iron, helping to boost energy levels and combat deficiency-related fatigue. These gummies are ideal for:

• Short-term use to correct iron deficiency.
• Fast absorption for those needing a quick boost.
• Easy consumption, especially for those who struggle with capsules or tablets.

Nettle Tincture: Gentle, Long-Term Support

For those looking for a more natural, herbal approach, Nettle Tincture is a powerful ally. Nettle is rich in bioavailable iron, along with essential vitamins and minerals that support iron absorption. This makes it an excellent long-term solution for maintaining healthy iron levels. Nettle tincture is best for:

• Daily, long-term use to naturally maintain iron levels.
• Supporting overall reproductive health and reducing menstrual fatigue.
• Combining with iron-rich foods for enhanced benefits.

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you are already iron-deficient, start with Iron Gummies to quickly restore your levels.
• Once balanced, switch to Nettle Tincture for ongoing maintenance and gentle support.
• For best results, combine nettle tincture with an iron-rich diet (leafy greens, red meat, legumes, etc.).

Both options can play a role in your wellness journey. If you’re unsure which is right for you, feel free to visit us in-store or contact us for personalised guidance!

Herbs for Health – Supporting Your Wellness Naturally

Iron Gummies and Nettle Tincture for Iron Deficiency Support

The post Iron Deficiency & Menstruation: Which Supplement is Right for You? appeared first on Herbs For Health.

Spent too much time in the sun? Make your own gentle, cooling homemade after-sun gel using only three ingredients—all natural, soothing, and available from us. Watch the video below for the step-by-step guide!

Soothe Summer Skin Naturally: Make Your Own After-Sun Gel

Long days in the sun can leave your skin feeling dry, tight, and irritated—even if you’ve taken care to avoid sunburn. But nature offers a gentle solution!

Prepare your own natural and effective after-sun gel using just three powerful ingredients:

• Super Aloe Gel – Known for its soothing and hydrating properties, aloe is a classic remedy for sun-stressed skin. It cools, calms, and helps promote healing.

• Organic Lavender Essential Oil – A skin-loving essential oil that not only helps reduce redness and irritation but also promotes skin repair while bringing a calming aroma.

• Spearmint Essential Oil – Naturally refreshing and cooling, spearmint gives your skin instant relief from heat, while its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce discomfort.

How to use:
Mix a few drops of lavender and spearmint essential oils into your Super Aloe Gel (about 3–5 drops of each essential oil per tablespoon of aloe is a good start). Store in a small jar or pump bottle and apply to skin as needed after sun exposure. Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling boost!

All ingredients are available from us.

Give your skin the natural care it deserves with this homemade after sun.

Remember, prevention is better than a cure. We have a large variety of Sun Blocks in stock.

For more information, contact Suzaan at 063 684 1436 or info@lilyproductrange.co.za

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Kidney health is vital to the body’s overall function, influencing everything from detoxification to fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. In the realm of natural medicine, several herbs have been traditionally used to support kidney function and overall renal health. These herbs, rich in bioactive compounds, offer diverse mechanisms of action—from promoting detoxification and reducing inflammation to enhancing circulation and providing antioxidant support.

The significance of herbs in kidney health is outlined, and an overview highlights five such herbs—Astragalus, Bedstraw, Rhubarb Root, Flaxseed, and Milk Thistle—each with unique properties that contribute to kidney wellness. While some directly support renal detoxification and filtration, others work more holistically, strengthening the body’s systems that interact with or impact the kidneys. Understanding the active compounds and mechanisms of these herbs allows for a more informed and intentional use in herbal practice, particularly for those seeking gentle, natural support for kidney health.

1. Astragalus:

   • Active Compounds: Astragalus contains saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides.
   • Mechanism: Saponins and polysaccharides may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially supporting immune function. Antioxidant properties could protect against oxidative stress in the kidneys.
   • Significance: Astragalus is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for kidney support, believed to enhance overall kidney function through anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
   • Additional Information:
     • Astragalus exhibits adaptogenic properties, aiding the body in adapting to stress.
     • Studies suggest potential benefits for blood flow, indirectly supporting kidney health.
     • Herbalists commonly use Astragalus membranaceus root to tone the kidneys.

2. Bedstraw:

   • Active Compounds: Galium aparine, the main species, contains iridoid glycosides and flavonoids.
   • Mechanism: Bedstraw’s diuretic action is attributed to iridoid glycosides, which increase urine production. This may assist in removing waste products from the kidneys.
   • Significance: Bedstraw’s diuretic properties make it potentially beneficial for flushing out toxins from the kidneys, supporting a cleansing process.
   • Additional Information:
     • European herbalists historically used it for its diuretic and mild laxative effects.
     • Employed as a gentle detoxifying herb for various organs, including the kidneys.
     • Some herbalists recommend bedstraw for alleviating symptoms associated with kidney stones.

3. Rhubarb Root:

   • Active Compounds: Anthraquinones, such as emodin and rhein, are key components.
   • Mechanism: Anthraquinones act as stimulant laxatives, potentially aiding in detoxification. Monitor use carefully, as excessive intake can cause electrolyte imbalances.
   • Significance: Rhubarb root is known for its laxative properties, which may contribute to detoxification, but caution is advised due to the potential for electrolyte imbalance.
   • Additional Information:
     • Beyond laxative effects, rhubarb root has anti-inflammatory properties.
     • Used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for promoting circulation and addressing inflammation.
     • Emphasises the importance of moderation in use due to the balance of beneficial and potentially harmful compounds.

4. Flaxseed:

   • Nutrient Content: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, lignans, and antioxidants.
   • Mechanism: Omega-3s exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation. The fibre content aids in digestive health, indirectly benefiting overall well-being.
   • Significance: Flaxseed’s omega-3 fatty acids and fibre contribute to anti-inflammatory and digestive support, with potential overall health benefits.
   • Additional Information:
     • Flaxseed lignans, particularly SDG, have antioxidant properties.
     • Use ground flaxseed to boost nutrient absorption.
     • A valuable source of fibre in the diet.

5. Milk Thistle:

   • Active Compounds: The primary active component is Silymarin, a flavonoid complex.
   • Mechanism: Silymarin is known for its hepatoprotective properties. While primarily studied for liver health, its antioxidant effects may have indirect benefits for the kidneys.
   • Significance: Milk thistle, with its liver-protective properties, might indirectly benefit the kidneys through antioxidant effects and overall detoxification support.
   • Additional Information:
     • Extensively researched for potential benefits in liver diseases.
     • Silymarin may have anti-fibrotic effects relevant to kidney fibrosis.
     • Its broader implications for systemic health emphasise its significance.

The post Herbs and Their Significance in Kidney Health appeared first on Herbs For Health.

Natuurlike voorkoming van COVID-19 in die winter is vir my en my gesin ’n doelbewuste keuse wat geloof, gebed en die gebruik van natuurlike middels insluit. Ons glo dat God die liggaam met die vermoë geskape het om homself te genees wanneer dit die regte ondersteuning ontvang — geestelik én fisies. Daarom volg ons ’n eenvoudige maar kragtige roetine om ons gesondheid te beskerm tydens die koue seisoen, sonder om in vrees te leef. In hierdie artikel deel ek wat ons prakties doen om gesond te bly en siekte te keer — insluitend wat ek aanbeveel as iemand moontlik aan ’n virus blootgestel is, of begin simptome wys.

1.) Wat doen ek (en my gesin) om siekte, onder andere COVID-19, natuurlik te voorkom? 

• Ons kies om te glo ~ ook dat dit nie waar is dat daar nie geneesmiddels is vir sekere siektes, soos COVID -19, nie. Die mediese wetenskap het miskien nie antwoorde nie, maar dit beteken nie daar is nie middels wat gebruik kan word nie. Ons glo in die enigste Waarheid soos in die Woord vervat.
• Ons bid saam en hou aan vertrou vir bonatuurlike ingryping.
• Ons hou saam nagmaal, want ons glo Jesus se liggaam is gebreek vir ons genesing ~ fisies en emosioneel en dat elke druppel van Sy Bloed vir ons gestort is vir vergifnis van ons sonde.
• Ons salf mekaar met Oil of Gladness (Joy). (Psalm 45:7, Hebrews 1:9 & Isaiah 61:3)
• Ons spreek lewe.
• Ons kies om positief te bly.
• Ons kies om nie te vrees nie.
• Ons respekteer regulasies wat deur die regering ingestel is en volg dit na.
• Ons hou ons liggame sterk en gesond deur dit wat ons eet en doen.
• Ons reinig ons hande deurlopend met goeie handwasmiddel soos Aloe Ferox se Pearly Jasmin Hand Wash.
• Ons reinig werksoppervlaktes met Thieves Oil Spritzer.
• Ons gebruik Sanitisers soos Thieves Oil Hand Sanitiser, want dit droog nie ons hande uit nie. Ons reinig veral goed voor en na shopping.
  

Vir algemene goeie gesondheid en immuniteit deur die Winter (indien nie genoegsaam ander kruie gebruik nie):

• Whole-leaf Aloe Juice
• Body Basics Kapsules 

The post COVID-19 & My Samevattende Opinie rakende Drie Vrae tydens Wintermaande appeared first on Herbs For Health.

I use these herbs regularly in my practice to support the body’s natural healing process. ARTEMISIA AFRA (Wildeals) & ARTEMISIA ANNUA (Wormwood)

Artemisia Afra

• “Wilde als word al vir eeue deur die inheemse bevolking van Suider Afrika gebruik vir medisinale doeleindes”
• “Wilde als het ‘n antiseptiese, antiwurm en narkotiese werking en word gebruik om pyn en koors, wurms, hardlywigheid, hoes, keelseer, griep en geelsug te behandel.”

(ROBERTS, MARGARET. 2000. Alles oor Kruie. Struik Uitgewers. Kaapstad.)

• “Wildeals’ is one of the most widely used traditional medicines in South Africa. Numerous ailments are treated with it – mainly coughs, colds and influenza – but also fever, loss of appetite, colic, headache, earache, malaria and intestinal worms, amongst others.”

(VAN WYK, B.,VAN OUTSHOORN, B. & GERICKE, N. 2009. Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza publications. Pretoria.)

Qing Hao, Artemisia annua, Chinese Wormwood

• “Research has now vindicated this traditional use, revealing that qing hao prevents and cures malaria and is relatively free from side effects.”
• “Chinese research Qing hau was extensively researched in China in the 1980s, and studies have demonstrated that its key active constituent is an effective antimalarial, having a powerful action against the malaria parasite Plasmodium, a protozoan introduced into the body by the mosquito. Artemisinin. The compound artemisinin, and to some extent the herb, has marked antiparasitic and antibacterial activity. Clinical trials show that it can provide vital treatment in the acute stages of malaria, proving up to 90% effective in countering the infection.”
• “The first mention of Qing Quo was in a Chinese text of 168 BC.”

(CHEVALLIER, A. FNIMH. 2000. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Dorling Kindersley. United States.)

Conclusion

Many cultures across the world have turned to Artemisia species for centuries to treat common and serious illnesses alike. In summary, Artemisia afra and Artemisia annua are powerful medicinal herbs. They show how traditional knowledge and modern science can work together.

Artemisia afra—commonly known as wildeals—has been used for centuries in Southern Africa. It helps with colds, flu, fever, sore throats, and digestive problems. In contrast, Artemisia annua, also called Chinese wormwood, became well-known for its ability to treat malaria. Modern research confirmed it.

Both plants have antimicrobial, antiseptic, and immune-boosting effects. They are useful for both preventing and treating infections. In fact, studies show that Artemisia annua is up to 90% effective in the treatment of malaria.

I use these herbs regularly in my practice to support the body’s natural healing process. From personal experience in my practice since 2006, I (Karen) have seen excellent results using Artemisia. It works well for colds, flu, sore throats, and ear infections. I have also used it to help support the immune system during times of illness.

These herbs are gentle yet effective. They offer natural solutions without the side effects of many synthetic medicines.

In conclusion, Artemisia afra and Artemisia annua are rooted in history, but they remain highly relevant today. They remind us that nature still provides some of the best tools for healing.

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Note that this is only a list of general herbs; there is a much larger variety available for these ailments.  Please consult a trained medicinal herbalist to verify combinations and dosages before administering herbal remedies.

INTERNAL REMEDIES

IMMUNE BOOSTING HERBS

• Echinacea
• Thyme
• Myrrh
• Astragalus
• Pau D’arco
• Onions & Garlic
• Green Tea

MULTIVITAMIN HERBS

• Alfalfa
• Catnip
• Parsley
• Rosehip
• Cherry Tablets
• Cranberry Tablets
• Lemon & Chilli
• Vitamin C Tablets (With Rosehip)

COLDS  & FLU

• Echinacea, Thyme, Elder Flowers & Wormwood
• Ginger, Thyme, Sage & Mullein
• Ginger, Lemon, Cayenne & Honey
• Cinnamon with Lemon Juice

CHEST INFECTIONS, SUCH AS BRONCHITIS

• Echinacea, Thyme, Sage & Liquorice Root
• Ginger, Thyme, Sage & Mullein
• Comfrey

SORE THROAT, MOUTH ULCERS AND INFECTIONS, LARYNGITIS & TONSILLITIS

• Echinacea, Sage, Rosemary & Myrrh
• Wormwood
• Sore Throat Spray

CATNIP AND ELDER FLOWERS CAN BE USED AS PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT FOR WINTER ILLNESSES

EXTERNAL REMEDIES

• Frankincense/ Tea Tree, Ravensara/Eucalyptus & Rosemary Essential Oil
• Sinus Gel
• Sinus Soother Spray
• Sinus Soother Sniff
• Aloe Ferox Si-Nose Spray
• Aloe Ferox Si-Nose Drops

FEVER BLISTER / COLD SORES

• Echinacea & Lemon Balm (Internally as well)
• Tea Tree Essential Oil
• Witch Hazel
• Hay Fever Balm

CHILBLAINS

• Bitter Aloe Gel
• Marigold Ointment
• Ginger Essential Oil

CHAPPED LIPS

• Hay Fever Balm
• Marigold Ointment
• BytjieSalf Lip Balm

CHAPPED HEELS

• Witch Hazel Ointment
• Aloe Ferox Heel Balm

Support your body with a trusted Winter Cures using time-tested natural remedies for cold and flu. From immune-boosting herbs to external treatments, these herbal remedies help you stay warm, stay well, and embrace Winter the natural way.

The post Winter Cures appeared first on Herbs For Health.

Caring for babies naturally can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to herbal remedies. In this post, I’ve listed a few gentle, time-tested herbal options to support the health of babies under six months old. These remedies address common ailments and focus on external use or indirect application through breastfeeding.

Note the following statements regarding remedies for babies younger than 6 months:

• Avoid internal use.
• If need be, some remedies can be taken by the breastfeeding mom to treat the baby.
• That said, herbs are still safer to use than any conventional medicine.
• Please consult with a trained medicinal herbalist before administering herbal remedies to babies. 

Also, note the use of internal and external use of herbal remedies for babies, where applicable.

INCREASING BREAST MILK SUPPLY (for mom)

• Nettle
• Fennel
• Milk Thistle
• Alfalfa

BREAST TENDERNESS AND SORE NIPPLES (topical use for mom)

• Marigold Ointment

CRADLE CAP (for external application)

• Olive Oil or Marigold Ointment

NAPPY RASH (for external application)

• Marigold Ointment

COLIC

• Slippery Elm
• Catnip
• Lemon Balm
• Chamomile Infusion
• Fennel

EARACHE (for external use)

• A drop of Wormwood on cotton wool in the ear
• A drop of Lavender Essential Oil on cotton wool in the ear
• Sinus Gel is applied around the ear area

RESTLESSNESS

• Chamomile Infusion in Bathwater
• Lemon Balm
• Catnip

BLOCKED NOSE (for external use)

• A drop of Tea Tree on bedding
• Sinus Gel

TEETHING

• Chamomile Infusion
• Catnip & Lemon Balm
• Slippery Elm Powder rubbed on gums

Karen Wolmarans
www.herbsforhealth.co.za

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Tinctures are prepared by soaking ground herbs (each one separately) in alcohol (I use Cane) and shaking daily for a period of 14 days.

I prepare them in a 1:5 ratio (herb: cane) when using dried herbs, and a 1:3 ratio when using fresh herbs.

After two weeks, each tincture is extracted through a wine press lined with muslin cloth.

Tinctures are filtered twice, combined (if need be), bottled and labelled in amber dropper bottles.

The active plant constituents (active ingredients) of the herbs dissolve in the alcohol, giving tinctures a stronger and faster action than infusions, decoctions and capsules.

Herbal tinctures are potent remedies.

It is therefore important to consult with a trained herbalist before commencing with treatment, to establish which herbs to use in combination for a certain ailment, as well as to establish dosage.

Indication of dosage:

Babies under 6 months: Best not to use herbal remedies, but it is still much better than using conventional medicine

6-12 months: 2-4 drops of each Tincture 1-3 times a day

1-6 years: 10-15 drops of each Tincture 1-3 times a day

7-12 years: 15-20 drops of each Tincture 1-3 times a day

Adults: 30-35 drops of each Tincture 1-3 times a day

Over 65 years: 25 drops of each Tincture 1-3 times a day

Important to note:

• Some tinctures are potent remedies and should be given in lower dosages, for instance, Wormwood & Comfrey.
• Try not to combine more than 4/5 tinctures in a single dosage. Rather, use combinations alternately, a few hours apart.

Winepress used when making tinktures

Winepress in action

Innovation for keeping the muslin cloth in position

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Preparing your own Marigold Ointment is advised. It gives so much satisfaction. 

Marigold ointment is a very effective remedy, which I recommend for many applications, including the following:

• Fungal infections; eczema & acne
• Nappy rash & cradle cap
• Cuts & Wounds
• Bruises, strains & sprains
• Minor burns & scalding
• Sore & tender nipples during breastfeeding
• Insect bites & stings

I need to have the following ready:

• Clean the surface and work area
• Clean rubber gloves
• 500g Emulsifying Ointment
• 60g Ground Dried Marigold Flowers
• Double boiler
• Two warming trays
• Two bowls
• Muslin cloth
• Funnel
• Oil filter
• Sterilised glass containers with tight-sealing lids
• Labels

The method I use in the preparation of the ointment is:

1. Melt the Emulsifying ointment in the double boiler. Add the ground Marigold Flowers and stir until well mixed.
2. Cover with a lid and heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Heat the two bowls on the warming trays. This is important because the ointment solidifies very quickly after being removed from the heat. Therefore it is very important to work quickly.
4. Line the first bowl with a large piece of muslin cloth.
5. After 20 minutes, take the liquid mixture off the heat. Pour into the first bowl and strain using the muslin cloth.
6. Now filter the strained ointment using the funnel (lined with the oil filter) into the second bowl.
7. Pour the liquid ointment into glass containers.
8. Wait until cooled, then seal containers tightly with lids. The ointment should have solidified.
9. Label each container.

Store away from direct sunlight.

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