Natural Constipation Remedies

Constipation is a very uncomfortable feeling and when the stools become hard and dry it makes it worse to try and eliminate them. Constipation is caused by loss of enough the muscle contractions that help to move food through the digestive system.

When constipation occurs it is due to undigested food that moves too slowly in the large intestines and stops the body’s process to  empty the bowels. The stools build up and remains in contact with the intestines which absorbs the extra water drying out the stool.

Bloating, gas, and discomfort sets in. There are a few natural remedies that you can do to help get yourself going. Warm water usually triggers the muscles to contract and helps stimulate the bowels.

There are herbs that are known as “alterative herbs”( that restore your bowels to a normal health) that can be effective in relieving cases of chronic constipation. The dried roots of yellow dock, dandelion, burdock root, and Oregon grape. These herbs are bitter, but when consumed, they can promote digestion, stomach acidity, and bile flow.

You can purchase these herbs in tincture form and use 1 dropper 3-7 times a day.

Flaxseed provides fiber with essential oils that help to lubricate and soften the stools.

Figs also provide fiber and aids in digestion.

As always, check with your doctor before using any herbal tinctures or supplements.

Essential Oils And The Common Cold

Essential Oils

Did you know that you can use essential oils when dealing with a cold? Cold viruses release infected secretions when you cough or sneeze and is entered into the body through the nose or mouth since the virus is usually airborne, but it can also be transmitted from the hands to the mouth or nose. That is why it is so important to wash your hands and to keep your hands away from your face.

Essential oils have been proven to be effective in treating viral infections. Inhaling the scents opens up a stuffy nose, and helps ease breathing. This is soothing to inflamed membranes.

Essential oils to use are : pine-needle, peppermint, eucalyptus and thyme. Pine needle and thyme can be used to loosen up mucus. To get these benefits just place a few drops of one of the oils into a tissue and inhale. Try boiling water and place a few drops into the water and inhale the steam.

Remedies for Sinus Infections

Remedies for Sinus Infections                              

The nasal sinuses are connected to the nasal cavity, and a common cold can spread into the nasal sinuses causing inflamed mucous membranes that can lead to an infection. 

The nasal passageway that connects the sinuses to the nasal cavity is narrow and is easily obstructed due to colds, allergies, or even polyps. The obstruction prevents drainage and traps air that can’t escape through the nostrils and causes mucus to build up.

A nasal infection develops when a bacterial or viral infection u develops usually a cold that spreads into any of the sinuses causing inflammation and swelling and often in the frontal or maxillary sinuses

The infection can be chronic or acute, and most bacteria caused, usually lead to the need for antibiotics. Symptoms of acute sinusitis are pounding headaches, sneezing, pressure, heavy yellow mucus, and fever. Acute sinusitis usually clears up in a few days.

Chronic sinus problems are caused by smoking, nasal growths, or nasal injuries. Sinusitis can be connected to food allergies, so it is best to talk with your doctor.

 Natural remedies can be effective in dealing with infections such as Horseradish poultice- helps draw out the infections by stimulating the blood flow and metabolism.

Expectorant medicinal plants can help as well if you frequently get colds and sinus infections ,you should try and incorporate fresh garlic, horseradish, or cayenne pepper into your diet.

These antibacterial plants help loosen nasal fluids and tame the swelling of the sinus membranes. Horseradish is probably the most effective, and you can grate and sprinkle over your food or purchase it at a health food store in tincture form.

Inducing sweating can help stimulate the immune system, by killing bacteria and helps promote the expelling of toxins. Using a netti pot you can add a spoonful of chamomile, Goldenseal, thyme, peppermint or diluted saltwater.

Inhaling steam with essential oils such as: eucalyptus, or tea tree oil are very effective. The steam is antibacterial and thins the mucus and helps loosen nasal secretions while the oils stop the inflammation and swelling.

Dry air will irritate inflamed sinuses so it is best if you use a humidifier to moisten the nasal passages or use pots of boiling water to add moisture to the area.

Be careful when you have a cold, use paper tissues and throw them away after using them.
Drink plenty of water to keep the nasal mucous fluid, and avoid coffee, and soda as they are dehydrating.

Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily so that you receive the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Limit dairy products because they are known to create thick mucus in the throat, nose, and sinuses and are ideal grounds for bacteria.

Tick Bites And Essential Oils

Summer is just upon us and many of us enjoy being outdoors. But, everyone needs to be diligent in protecting ourselves, and family from being lunch for "ticks". Our furry friends are not the only ones that need protection. It is important when, after coming in from outside to inspect yourself for ticks. 


Tick bites carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Fever, tick bites can go unnoticed, so it is important to protect yourself as they can hide easily without detection. During the summer and spring be vigilant. There are essential oils that can  be worn to protect yourself when outdoors.

If you aren't fond of those sprays for protection why not try these essential oils.
Cedar or citrus scent essential oils can be applied to the skin and act as a protective disinfectant, since our sweat gives off a scent to the tick these oils will mask it.