Cayenne: Top 5 Herbs & Tea Recipe

Cayenne is AMAZING. 

Enough said. Truly, it is in the TOP FIVE most important herbs to use in our opinion. Sometimes it's a little hard to get cayenne in your everyday diet. The best way we have found to include cayenne everyday is through the Cayenne & Lemon Tea.

Directions:

• 16 oz. of filtered water
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons raw maple syrup or raw honey
• Simply combine these ingredients and have this drink once or twice a day
• Add more lemon or sweetener to taste

Why Cayenne? Here are just a few reasons from the many:

1. We have found it eases our upset stomach, ulcer, sore throats, spasmodic and irritating coughs and diarrhea.
2. We have had great luck using it to break up and moving congested mucus. Once mucus leaves the body then relief from flu symptoms follow! 
3. It has helped us as a digestive aid. Stimulates the digestive tract and increases the flow of enzyme production and gastric juices.
4. It has aided our bodies in metabolizing food.
5. Cayenne is a  known circulatory stimulant. When we have been sick, we have found it heats the body and helped our bodies detox,  as we have studied this we found that it  increases the pulse of the bodies lymphatic and digestive rhythms. 
6. It is an excellent preservative.
7. Scientists at the Laval University in Quebec found that those participants who took cayenne pepper for breakfast or in a tea were found to have less appetite and lead to less caloric intake throughout the day.

Common Cold Kid Syrup

Herbal Syrups are something that NMM are doing ALL THE TIME. Mainly because kids are so much more inclined to take syrups instead of trying to down a bitter tea or capsule of herbs. Truthfully, syrups are just a strong medicinal tea with honey or other natural sweetener as the base. 

Here is a syrup that is fabulous for coughs, sore throats, colds and all around "winter-time" bugs.

Items:

• 1 Tablespoon Mullein
• 1 Tablespoon licorice root
• 1 Tablespoon marshmallow root
• You can add cinnamon and ginger for taste as well - 1 tablespoon of each
• 4 cups water or apple juice
• 1 cup raw honey 
• 1 jar

Directions:

• Mix together the herbs and put it in a saucepan with the 4 cups of liquid.
• Turn heat on very low. 
• Let mixture simmer, until liquid has been reduced by half.
• Strain out the herbs then pour the liquid back into the pan.
• Stir in the honey or other sweetener (raw maple syrup, raw sugar for 2 and under)
• Pour liquid in glass jar.
• Store in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.
• 1 teaspoon with meals for children. 1 Tablespoon with meals for adults.

Sweet Onion Syrup

Onion and Honey Syrup is something that we have used so much with our kids! This recipe is great for colds that come with horrible coughs. Honey helps to soothe a sore throat. The Onion works amazingly because of it supports your body fight bacteria, inflammation and loosening phlegm in the chest. 

You will need:

• One Red Or Yellow Onion
• You can also add One Head of Garlic
• 1 cup Raw Honey (If you are making this syrup for an infant 2 years or younger you can use raw white or brown sugar instead*)
• 1 Jar 
• Note: Use this syrup fresh. It can store in the fridge for 1-2 days. After that make another batch.
• If onion or garlic sound a little strange, please just try it! We promise it is so much better than over the counter stuff.

Directions:

1. Chop or slice up the onion.
2. Place one slice or chopped onion layer in the bottom of the jar. Pour honey or sugar over it to coat it.
3. Continue to alternate onion and sweetener layers in the jar.
4. When finished, cover it tightly and let it sit overnight or 8-12 hours. 
5. After sitting for that long there will be liquid in the jar (the sweetener pulls out the liquid of the onion and garlic)
6. Use 1 teaspoon per hour for a child and 1 tablespoon per hour for an adult.
7. You cannot over dose on this! Use it AT LEAST hourly for acute cough or cold.
8. Remember: COUGH UP LOOSE PHLEGM. Your body is trying to get rid of the nasty stuff, help it!

Fast Version:

1. Same Ingredients.
2. Place chopped/sliced onion in a pan and cover with either honey or sugar. 
3. Turn heat on VERY low. 
4. Let onion and sweetener sit in the pan until all juices have been extracted from the onion (about 20-30 minutes).
5. Strain out liquid and use immediately.

*NMM Andrea used this syrup for her 3 month old baby when he had a nasty cough. She used raw sugar instead of honey to make the syrup and gave it to him hourly. It loosened up his chest cough and helped him so much! She used the fast version because she woke up at night with him coughing and miserable. It helped to settle him down and stop coughing. She used it for 48 hours.

The Common Cold: Knowledge IS Power

Christmas is over, the New Year beginning and a couple of months ahead of us with all kind of variations of "the common cold" going around.

The instant those snowflakes hit the ground doesn't it feel like throats start to get sore, noses get stuffed up and the tissues start building up? What are a few things about your common cold you should know about in order to fight it and, most importantly, GET RID OF IT?

1. REMEMBER: The common cold is a virus... well, rather, lots of viruses. Over 200 viruses to be specific. A virus is not curable and there are SO many strains of it that there is just no way to vaccinate against it. So, keep in mind that having a really good habit of washing hands in your home is tip-top priority with so many kinds of viruses that can strike.

2. HOW DO VIRUSES WORK?: When you "catch" a cold (to be more truthful, we think more often we "eat" our colds. Always look at your diet first as the problem to be fixed, then build on that) the virus attaches itself to the mucous membranes of your nose and throat. Basically it is like a terrorist that hijacks the cells that live there. It forces them to reproduce and replicate more virus cells. When your body tries to fight it then "signs" start to happen, like sneezing, coughing, congestion, sore throats, low grade fevers, mild fatigue, etc. 

3. ARE NATURAL REMEDIES WORTH IT?: Any remedy that you can take truthfully are more aimed at easing the signs and symptoms to help keep you comfortable. Your immune system has a lot of battles going on in order to get that virus out of your body. Using natural medicine remedies are (in the NMM opinion) are most effective because they also help to boost your immune system getting to the root of the issue instead of just focusing on the symptoms. Remedies really need to be the kind that get down and dirty, not just put a bandaid on the problem.

4. DILIGENT APPLICATION: One reason why some people don't see as much relief with natural medicine remedies is because they simple do not apply it enough. Mesha, the Cardiac Nurse on our team, put it very well:

"It is very important to remember when using 'natural' remedies, of any kind really, whether it be oils or herbs, that generally you will need to use the remedy frequently (sometimes every 30-60 minutes depending on the condition and how acute it is) to get the best effect. They are not 'extended release' as many pharmaceuticals are, and because they are natural, usually applying them often* will not be irritating or noxious."

5. WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT: First, look at your lifestyle. Common colds can last a couple months for some people because their diets are horrible and their stress level is high. Nine times out of 10 if you improve your diet and decrease your stress level, your particular common cold virus dissapates.

After evaluating that, if you want to give your body a few boosts to help your common cold go away faster then here are a few applications and recipes that we recommend (Click on links for details):

• Elderberry Syrup - More Info On Elderberry Specifically Here (great for kids)
• Sweet Onion Syrup (great for kids)
• Essential Oil Application and Steam Bowls
• Heat and Massage
• Common Cold Syrup (Mullein, Licorice and Marshmallow Root)
• Sore Throat Gargle
• Cayenne and Lemon Drink

GOOD LUCK!!

*With the exception of "hot" essential oils and "hot" herbs, like oregano oil, cinnamon oil, clove oil, cayenne, etc.

Why Are Elderberries A "Must-Have" For Your Natural Medicine Cabinet?

Elderberries are one of those herbs whose name is pretty well known. But what exactly are they and why do they work to aid healing in our bodies?

Let's get down to the "Nitty-Gritty" of this plant:

Elderberries are rich in the flavonoid Quercetin* - this is believed to account for most of the

therapeutic properties of the berry. The therapeutic properties are best known to combat flu viruses and respiratory ailments. Elderberries contain a compound that inhibits the ability of the flu virus to penetrate cell membranes and invade the respiratory tract.

They have also shown to relieve allergies and hay fever, soothe sore throats, combat sinusitis and lower fevers. They are also great relief for those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease and can serve as a gentle laxative.

Elderberries are full of tannins, amino acids, carotenoids, and Vitamins A and B. The high Vitamin C content in Elderberries account for the strong antioxidant properties that can protect against cell damage.

At NMM we ADVOCATE growing your own herbs! However, we know how busy everyone is - we want you to have Elderberries on hand ASAP. We have Elderberry Syrup Packets ready to go for when your family needs it immediately. (See the highlights of the Syrup Packets at the bottom of this post.)

PLEASE be careful when you are thinking about growing your own Elderberry Bush. There are some varieties that are poisonous. But fully ripe berries from the European Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) are NOT poisonous. Before consuming, these berries should be boiled down into a syrup, as they do contain low levels of naturally occurring toxins. By boiling, the toxins are completely removed, leaving a safe, toxin-free syrup that is high in antioxidants, and highly beneficial for the immune system.

The North American medicine people say the elderberry has the power to “strengthen the inner warrior.” Elderberries have a history as a healing food, as recorded in a 1633 book called The Anatomie of the Elder. This is a book of 230 pages dedicated to documenting the medicinal properties of every part of the elderberry plant. So if you are into REALLY researching this plant more, we recommend that you pick up a copy!

We love giving Elderberry Syrup to our families and highly recommend it for flu season!

Elderberry syrup Highlights

• Organic
• Raw
• Vegan
• 100% pure
• Gluten-free
• Non-GMO
• Immune boosting properties

*Don't understand what a flavonoid is? Click here for a more in depth article.
*Quoted from WebMD: Quercetin is used for treating conditions of the heart and blood vessels including “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis), high cholesterol, heart disease, and circulation problems. It is also used for diabetes, cataracts, hay fever, peptic ulcer,schizophrenia, inflammation, asthma, gout, viral infections, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), preventing cancer, and for treating chronic infections of the prostate. Quercetin is also used to increase endurance and improve athletic performance. 

The information on this page has not been evaluated by the FDA or any other medical experts. Statements on this web site are not intended to be a replacement for medical advice from your personal physician.

Flu Season ... What Do You Do With Your Littles?

At NMM we all have families and a lot of small kids. Flu season can be a tough time for a lot of mamas out there! Lately we have had several other people ask us this question:

"What do you do with your littles?"

So since flu season is upon us... what should you do? What will kids actually use? What will they actually accept without freaking out, running away, crying and whining?

Here are a few ideas:

1. First ask yourself... What have they been eating? 

We OFTEN talk about "The Bug" going around... looking for something to blame getting sick on. Haven't you ever noticed that "the bug" usually goes around during the time of year that we are eating the worst? Hmmmm... YES the two are related.

Especially when littles are sick, STOP the processed sugar. Please. It is like a feeding ground for all those bugs and germs. Do not give their body MORE ability to get even more sick by putting more of it in their bodies.

Organic honey and agave are very soothing for throat issues - they can be used in moderation when giving natural medicine.

2. Make them a green drink. At our house we call it "The Strong Hulk Shake".... then sneak in those herbs.

This method for getting more herbs works for any child that is eating solids (as long as you have already given them these foods and there are no allergies).

We make this with coconut milk (loaded with calcium), apples (you know all the good stuff there), pineapple (loaded with Vitamin C), small banana (potassium), lime juice and a few drops of orange essential oil... then pack it with spinach and/or kale. Usually add some ice for the chilling factor.

At NMM we try to take advantage of EVERY opportunity to "sneak" in powdered herbs.

For a dry cough and diarrhea problems you can sneak in some Slippery Elm Bark Powder. For anything respiratory you can sneak in Mullein Powder. There are SO MANY other powdered herbs you can sneak in... so if you have a question about it, let us know.

Another easy way to sneak in herbs, for those kids who don't want to take capsules, is to add them to applesauce and yogurt.

3. Massage like crazy.

This is excellent to do with any child that will let you. We use what is known as Thieves Oil (we make our own) but you can buy it through various essential oil companies. At DoTerra it is know as On Guard.

NMM Andrea (Certified Massage Therapist and Bodyworker) regularly does this with her six year old son, four year old daughter and two year old son. This is what she says:

"Using a carrier oil start with your child's legs (I use coconut oil). Cover their leg with the oil with long strokes... it usually feels really good to them, especially if your child is sick. If it is an older child you can do this with their lower leg as well to be more non-invasive. After covering their leg with the carrier oil then drop the essential oil on their leg and massage in. Between 2-4 drops depending on the size of your child for each limb or area.

Then go to the next leg, their arms and their tummy and chest doing the same thing. Have them lay on their tummy and rub their back. This usually takes about 15 minutes, and it is excellent quality time with them as well."

4. Elderberry Syrup

Last, but not least, we highly recommend Elderberry Syrup. We wrote a whole blog post about this syrup, what is in it and how it can help your family. It is IDEAL to give to the littles because it is very easy to make it to taste very good.

NMM Kalea said, "We used the Elderberry Syrup at the beginning of the season last year and it helped us tremendously. I ended up using it as a pancake syrup because I had sweetened it with pure maple syrup! It was so easy to get it in my kids bodies."

Elderberry Syrup - Packet & Information

Elderberry Syrup Mix

Buy 5 Get 1 Free - Buy 10 Get 2 Free

Options

1 Packet $6.97 USD 2 Packets $13.94 USD 3 Packets $20.91 USD 4 Packets $27.88 USD Buy 5 Get 1 Free $34.85 USD Buy 10 Get 2 Free $69.70 USD

The Ingredients And What They Do*

• ELDERBERRIES – We have used it for bronchitis, colds, flu, sinus, viral illness. (Do not use if you have autoimmune disease)
• ECHINACEA – Supports your body during colds, sinus, sore throat, flu, inflammation, bacteria, viral illness. (Use with caution if you have ragweed allergy.
• GINGER – Supports your body during colds, flu, digestion, cardiovascular,
  

  

  stimulant, warming.
• ROSE HIPS – Extremely high in Vitamin C, B, E, and K. Supports your body in calming spasms.
• CINNAMON – Supports your body during colds, digestion, flu, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral.
• All ingredients are dried and completely organic. You receive a packet that is ready to either make syrup, or you can keep it for when your house starts to get "the sniffles"!

 How To Make It

Heat 3 cups of water or apple juice to a low roiling boil on the stove (do not microwave). Turn heat down to low. Stir in 1 cup of Elderberry Syrup mix (1 packet) and let simmer 45 minutes stirring occasionally (mixture will simmer down to about 2 cups). Pour mixture thru strainer, or cheesecloth bag provided, to separate liquid and discard pulp. Sweeten syrup with pure maple syrup, agave or honey to taste. Store in refrigerator.

 How To Use It

Wonderful, safe and effective illness remedy syrup for all ages! One (1) tsp. for children or One (1) Tbls. for adults every hour the first day of symptoms. The third day of symptoms cut back to every 2-3 hours depending on how the cough/flu is progressing through the body. Continue every day until syrup is gone or symptoms subside. If cold/flu symptoms persist and do not lessen after 2 weeks please seek medical attention.

Personal Stories:

"My 2 year old son would take this by the spoonfuls if I let him (pic left)! The instant my kids have any sign of problems I always make Elderberry Syrup. Last year I used the Elderberry Syrup for my 6 year old boy. He had a tight cough and just wasn't improving with anything else we tried. After having him take the syrup faithfully for about 3-4 days, the congestion in his chest loosened, he was able to cough it all out and within 5 days of taking the syrup was out and playing like normal. He didn't get sick again all season long, I believe, from the way this helped to boost and support his immune system." - Andrea 

"My kids actually took this syrup! It is very "Mom Friendly" when having kids take it. It took them a couple times taking it to get used to the taste, but I had them take it faithfully for a couple of days when they started to get the sniffles and the illness never persisted. We went through the flu season illness free! It was nice to use something that was helping to heal their bodies from the inside out instead of just putting a 'medical bandaid' over their problem." - Holly

 FAQ

When do I use it? Use when symptoms of coughs, colds and flu’s are present. If there are extreme medical issues present, please seek medical help.

Is it safe for children? Yes, but if you use honey to sweeten do not give to anyone under two.

How long does it store dry? If kept cool, dry and sealed – will store at least 3 years.

How long does it store in syrup form? Use within 2 months of making into syrup.  **Keep Refrigerated In Syrup Form**

Why use Elderberry Syrup instead of store bought medicines? Elderberry Syrup is All Natural.  Not only does it help coughs, it has supports your body during illness. It does not suppress or mask the  illness. There are no chemicals or artificial sugars in this recipe.

How do I sweeten Elderberry Syrup? Use raw maple syrup, agave or honey.

Is it safe for babies? Babies can use it at 12 months. Do not sweeten with honey for infants under 24 months. For under 12 months infant cough syrup ideas please visit our Facebook page.  

SHIPPING INFORMATION: We use priority mail exclusively with a flat rate of $5.95.

For further inquiries please visit our facebook page (facebook.com/naturalmedicinemamas) OR email us at naturalmedicinemamas@gmail.com

*This information is not meant for diagnosis and the elderberry syrup mix is privately packaged, not approved by the FDA. Please consult a medical professional if you have questions about symptoms or need more professional medical help.

NMM Introduction & Experience

We want to give a quick run down of our group!

1. Paula: Mom of the Mamas. She taught us everything we know. She is also very much a master herbalist (she is modest and doesn't say so) with 30+ years of practicing natural medicine and herbs.

2. Goldie: Fitness and Coach. She loves working out and helping the body reach it's full potential. Her energy is contagious and she puts together amazing meal plans!

3. Andrea: Professional Body Worker/Massage Therapist. 15+ years experience. She is trained in all kinds of modalities for body work including sports, cranial-sacral, deep tissue, headache specialist, chinese bodywork, etc.

4. Mesha: Cardiac Nurse. 20 years experience. She knows everything about everything! Helps us have a great balance with natural medicine and western medicine.

5. Kalea: Professional Horticulturist. 10 years experience. She is super talented at plant identification and helping us grow our own stuff so we aren't reliant on outside sources.