Many healing herbs are traditionally used for issues such as pain, cramps, and insomnia. A number of these merciful plant allies are included in our current “moving target" sale, with selected bulk herbs discounted at 40% off our regular prices—while supplies last.
Although among this group, Wild Yam and Nutmeg are better suited to growing in the eastern US, and in tropical climates, respectively, our stock of the seven others listed here is entirely cultivated in the Pacific Northwest!
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis, pictured above) is justly famous for its role in helping sleeplessness and calming anxiety. Its pain-relieving effects are best used where discomfort is due to tension.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a stimulant for cats, of course, but also a wonderful, gentle remedy for soothing colic, insomnia, and menstrual pain. Catnip poultices can be applied to painful swellings in conditions such as toothache, hemorrhoids, and mastitis.
Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) has been called “the queen of the female pharmacopeia.” Rich in phytoprogesteronic and anti-inflammatory compounds, this North American native is especially indicated for hormonal disturbances including menstrual cramps and PMS, and menopausal issues like sleep disruption, hot flashes, anxiety, and depression.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), as its common name implies, is another plant treasured for its roles in women’s health, including pain during and after childbirth, PMS, ovulatory and menstrual pain. Its botanical name refers to L. cardiaca’s use as a heart and circulatory tonic, as well as figuratively "comforting the troubled heart" in mood disorders.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is best known for preventing migraine and cluster headaches when used regularly. Continuing the theme of herbs with special relevance to women, Feverfew has long been used for inducing menstruation and aiding expulsion of the placenta after childbirth, and prescribed for infertility and menopausal symptoms.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an Ayurvedic root that has gained great renown worldwide as an adaptogen—a nontoxic herb that regulates multiple body functions, tending to reduce excesses and augment deficiencies. It has special affinities for the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, with beneficial effects on stress, anxiety, depression, memory, and sexual function.
Oat Tops (Avena sativa) are used by herbalists and homeopaths as a nerve tonic, reducing anxiety, calming hyperactivity, and easing withdrawal from nicotine and other substances; as a hormone balancer, treating dysmenorrhea and menopausal symptoms, and an aphrodisiac; and topically, in lotions and bath products, to relieve itchy skin conditions.
Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) is especially valued for treating cramping pains and inflammation affecting the digestive, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as the reproductive organs.
Delicious Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), like many spices and herbs used in cooking, is both strongly anti-inflammatory and great for digestion, calming flatulence, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea. Less well known is Nutmeg’s reputation as “the most specific herb to use for patients who wake up in the middle of the night and cannot fall back asleep”!
Other herbs discounted in this 40% off sale include Alfalfa, Artichoke Leaf, Astragalus, Blackberry Leaf, Blessed Thistle, Boneset, Burdock Root, Dandelion Leaf, Dandelion Root, Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea, Elecampane, Ginger, Juniper Berries, Lemon Peel, Lemongrass, Lobelia, Marshmallow, Mullein Leaf, Peppermint, Rosehip shells, Sage, Spearmint, Thyme, Wild Cherry Bark, and Yellow Dock.