Terry and I both believe that the Great Spirit has provided everything that humans and animals need to be able to be healthy and happy, through the bounty of the earth. Animals know instinctively what plants are edible, and which are to be avoided. Over the centuries, humans gained this knowledge through trial and error (often with painful and even fatal results). Since the days of antiquity, much has been learned about the efficacy of plant medicine, both nutritionally and medically. Much of our Modern Medicine owes a huge debt to the ancient Greeks, Romans, Asians and indigenous tribes of the world who used healing plants to treat a wide varieties of ailments and illnesses.


My plan is to highlight some of these wonderful plant and herb gifts that we have been blessed with. Since we are in the cold and flu season, I will offer one example of an effective medicinal plant.***
Anise seed Anise is sweet and very aromatic. In the kitchen it is used as a flavoring spice in foods, and in baking. Anise gives the popular Greek liqueur Ouzo its distinct licorice flavor. It has also been used as a popular remedy for hundreds of years in North America. In fact, the ubiquitous licorice flavored cough drop contains anise! Anise can be used to break up congestion, ease coughing and to relieve gas,
bloating and indigestion. It has also been used to treat rheumatism and colic. It can be eaten in food, taken as a tea, and anise seed oil can be used in aromatherapy to lift one's mood and stimulate a sluggish appetite.

Side note: Anise seed does have a few side effects. It should never be taken in large quantities as it becomes narcotic at that level. Also due to its estrogenic properties, anise should not be used by women who are pregnant or by infants. The oil should never be taken internally, and should only be used in an air diffuser or topically.
If you are curious or interested in using Anise in your own life, I would advise that you do your own research on it first. It's also a good idea to consult an herbalist or homeopath for more information on its proper usage.
I'll be back next week with more plant medicine for cold and flu symptoms.
Blessings,
Nehemiah
*** Information on the traditional uses and properties of herbs and plants are provided on this blog is for educational use only, and is not intended as medical advice. Every attempt has been made for accuracy, but none is guaranteed. Many traditional uses and properties of herbs have not been validated by the FDA. If you have any serious health concerns, you should always check with your health care practitioner before self-administering herbs. ***
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