When the seasons change, a lot of us feel the pull to slow down, reset, and take stock of what’s in the cabinet. It’s a good time to go back to the basics: the well-loved herbs, oils, and salves that have earned their place over generations.This week, we’re taking a closer look at seven fall staples on our shelf, along with how each one has traditionally been used, what research says so far, and a few common-sense cautions.
Parasite Cleanse: A Traditional Seasonal Reset
Herbal cleanses have been part of traditional wellness practices for centuries, and many people like to do one as the seasons change. Traditional parasite formulas often include bitter, aromatic herbs such as black walnut hull, wormwood, and clove, which herbalists have used for generations to support digestion.
Research on herbal parasite cleanses in people is still limited, so it’s worth thinking of a cleanse as a traditional seasonal practice rather than a medical treatment. If you have ongoing digestive symptoms or think you may have a parasitic infection, see your doctor. Testing matters, because different organisms need different treatments.If you do a cleanse, keep it simple: drink plenty of water, eat whole foods, and follow the label directions. Herbs like wormwood are not meant for long-term use, and cleanses aren’t recommended during pregnancy or nursing. Check with your doctor first if you take medication or manage a health condition.
Black Seed Oil: The Blessed Seed
Black seed (Nigella sativa) has been used for thousands of years across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, and it’s sometimes called “the blessed seed.” Today it’s one of the most-studied traditional herbs.
Most of the research centers on thymoquinone, black seed’s best-studied compound, which has been researched for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Reviews of human studies suggest black seed may offer modest support for healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and smaller studies have looked at its role in seasonal allergy comfort.
Because black seed may lower blood sugar and blood pressure, talk to your doctor if you take medication for either one. Large amounts aren’t recommended during pregnancy. Most people take black seed oil by the spoonful or stir it into honey to soften its strong, peppery flavor.
Abundance Essential Oil: Warmth and Intention
Our Abundance roller is a handcrafted blend of eight essential oils: orange, frankincense, myrrh, patchouli, clove, cinnamon, spruce, and cypress, all pre-diluted in fractionated coconut oil.
Aromatherapy is about scent and mood, and some of these oils have research behind them. Inhaled sweet orange oil, for example, has been studied in small trials for easing everyday anxiety. Frankincense and myrrh have been prized for their grounding, resinous scents since ancient times.
Abundance is pre-diluted for a reason. Clove and cinnamon oils can irritate the skin at full strength. Roll it onto your wrists or the back of your neck, try it on a small patch of skin first, and keep it away from your eyes. For external use only, and keep out of reach of children.
Bee Balm: A Native Prairie Plant
Bee balm (Monarda) grows wild right here in Iowa, and its shaggy purple blooms are a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its leaves smell spicy and oregano-like, thanks to aromatic compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, the same compounds found in thyme and oregano.
Many Native nations used bee balm in teas and steams, especially during cold-weather months, and early settlers adopted it too. A related species, Oswego tea, became a popular substitute for black tea after the Boston Tea Party. Lab studies have found that bee balm’s essential oil has antimicrobial properties, though human research is still limited.Bee balm is traditionally avoided during pregnancy. As with any herb, start with small amounts to see how it suits you.
Black Drawing Salve: An Old-Fashioned Favorite
Drawing salves have been a staple of country medicine cabinets for generations. They’re usually made with ingredients such as activated charcoal, clay, and herbs like plantain, and they’re traditionally used for stubborn splinters, bug bites and stings, and minor skin irritations.
Activated charcoal and clay are known for binding to other substances, which is part of why these salves have such a long history of “drawing” use. Plantain is a traditional favorite for bites and stings. To use, apply to clean skin and cover with a bandage.A drawing salve is for minor, everyday skin issues only. For deep wounds, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or anything that isn’t improving, see your doctor. Also be aware that some products sold as “black salve,” especially ones containing bloodroot and marketed for moles or skin growths, can seriously damage the skin. The FDA has warned against them. Any change in a mole or skin growth should be checked by a doctor.
Calendula Flowers: Sunshine in a Jar
Calendula’s bright orange petals have been used for gentle skin care for centuries. It remains one of the most popular herbs for homemade salves, infused oils, and soothing teas.
Calendula has been studied for its role in supporting minor wound healing and soothing irritated skin, and it’s a common ingredient in natural diaper creams and skin balms. Research results vary from study to study, but its long track record and gentle nature make it a favorite for homemade remedies.
To make a simple infused oil, fill a clean, dry jar loosely with dried calendula, cover it with olive oil, and let it sit in a warm spot for about four to six weeks before straining. Calendula is in the same plant family as ragweed and daisies, so use caution if you have those allergies.
Dandelion Root: The Most-Loved “Weed”
That backyard “weed” is one of herbalism’s most-loved roots. Dandelion root has traditionally been used to support digestion and the liver, and it’s naturally rich in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that feeds healthy gut bacteria.
Most of the research on dandelion root’s effects on the liver and digestion comes from lab and animal studies, so there’s still a lot to learn about how it works in people. Its prebiotic fiber, however, is well established.Roasted dandelion root is also a favorite caffeine-free coffee alternative. Simmer 1 tablespoon in 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes, then strain, and enjoy it with a splash of cream or honey.
Skip dandelion if you’re allergic to ragweed or daisies, and talk to your doctor first if you have gallbladder issues or take diuretics, lithium, or other prescription medications.
Stop By This Week
We carry all seven of these products in the shop, and we’re always happy to answer questions and help you choose what fits your routine. They are not a substitute for medical care in serious situations.Visit simplywildholistichealth.com, call 712-210-3865, or stop by 308 North Main Street in Carroll, Iowa. We’re open Monday through Friday, and Saturday by appointment.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal remedy, particularly if pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.
