Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)

Name:  Eucalyptus

Latin:  Eucalyptus Globulus

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Parts Used:  Leaf

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Used for:  This is an herb to use with a fair amount of caution, and only in small doses, particularly when taking it internally.  A smattering of flakes will be plenty for a full quart jar of loose tea.  Eucalyptus helps to dilate capillaries for better circulation, which can be useful when dealing with migraines.  A small amount on the tongue can quell nausea.  It is an antiseptic, which means it can be good for wounds, or as a scent or steam to inhale for internal infections.  When diluted with olive oil or vitamin E, the oil can be applied as an ointment.  The oil is also a decent insect repellent.  For coughs, it actually outstrips Robitussin as an expectorant.

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Directions & Warnings:  Eucalyptus is very useful, but you must be careful with the dosages, as it can be incredibly toxic when overdone.

Cardamom (Eelettaria cardamomum)

Name:  Cardamom

Latin:  Eelettaria cardamomum

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Parts Used:  Seeds

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Used for:  Cardamom seeds can be used to freshen the breath, improve digestion, and improve appetite.  They are known to help tonify and condition the stomach, liver, and intestines.  They can relieve coughs, mitigate bronchitis, assist against fevers, and ease inflammation of the mouth and throat.  Cardamom also helps to strengthen the immune system.  It is a useful aid during pregnancy for nausea, as it is a pregnancy-safe digestive aid.  There is evidence that cardamom may also be an anti-viral.

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Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Name:  Ginger

Latin:  Zingiber officinale

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Parts Used:  Rot

Vitamins/Minerals:

Used for:  This is a wonderful herb for nausea.  I have persistent food issues due to chemical allergies and the after-effects of an old illness, and most of the time one variant or another of Ginger tea will settle my stomach enough for me to eat.  It is used to settle the stomach and as an antacid because it blocks the breakdown of pepsinogen into the compound that causes a particular sort of ulcer and stomach irritation.  3 to 4 T added to bath water can help with detoxification.  Taken as a tea before or during a meal, it will help to mitigate gas.  Ginger also has anti-inflammatory capabilities, when used as a tea or eaten.  It can also function as a healthier stimulant than caffeine.

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