Meadowsweet Herbs

Most of us are familiar with garlic as a culinary herb, but did you know that garlic is one of the single best herbs for the cold and flu season? Garlic stimulates the immune system. It helps activate phagocytes to “eat” foreign invaders in the body as well as stimulating B and T cell production. Garlic’s antimicrobial activity works on viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, yeasts and molds. Allicin- an active constituent in fresh garlic & onions, is a broad spectrum antibiotic. Garlic’s anti-viral activity works well on influenza, herpes, and cold sores. It doesn’t produce resistant strains of microorganisms and has actually been found to work very well on them.

For the digestive system, Garlic is useful for parasites & fungi. Use it for amoebic dysentery, intestinal parasites, roundworm, and hookworm. Garlic supports healthy bacteria in the GI tract.

The essential oil of garlic comes out through the lungs, urine and blood, making it good for the respiratory system and urinary tract infections. Use Garlic for bronchitis, colds, ear infections, or UTIs.

Garlic is a wonderful tonic for the cardiovascular system. It aids in lowering cholesterol and reducing high blood pressure.

Topically, Garlic can be used as a skin wash, sitz bath, nose and eardrops, or a gargle. Dilute fresh squeezed Garlic juice 1:10 with water and then use it as a wash or soak. It will burn if used undiluted. Garlic also makes a good suppository. Simply peel the dry outer layer, without nicking garlic the skin.

Garlic contains the highest levels of medicinal properties when it is fresh. Take 1 fresh crushed clove 1 – 3 times a day or 2 capsules 3 times a day.

Contraindications: Garlic is very safe. Do not use it if you are allergic to sulfur. It can cause GI distress and contact dermatitis in some people.