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Just in case you were wondering... yes, of course—
natural health is essential!

As we all move through unfamiliar territory, keep in mind that herbs have helped people through all kinds of interesting times, since forever!

Whether you’re interested in

• soothing sore hands
• boosting your immunity
• calming allergies
• making your own herbal products at home
• finding custom-label items for your shop or clinic
• or simply feeling and looking your best this summer

...we have organic solutions for these and so many other natural health and beauty concerns!

We’re going strong in our new location: 2795 East Bakerview Rd. #17, Bellingham WA 98226.

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Wild Lettuce and Yerba Mansa
We’re proud of the high quality of our bulk herbs! When we come across particularly stellar crops, we feature them as premium harvest herbs. In addition to the locally grown Blue Cornflowers we dried in our shop last year, we’re currently offering wild-harvested batches of:
   

• Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) from the Pacific Northwest, an outstanding traditional analgesic and mildly sedative plant 

• Yerba Mansa (Anemopsis californica) roots from New Mexico, a treasured native remedy with remarkable astringent and antimicrobial properties

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Limited Run Product: Myriad Arnica & Menthol Soothing Balm with CBD

We produced this amazing balm as a custom formulation for a private label brand. (Please get in touch if you're interested in how we can create a product for your business!)

This ache-easing salve includes organic ingredients such as Pure Arnica and St. John’s Wort infused oils, Menthol, and Sweet Birch and Clove essential oils, in a Shea Butter-Beeswax base, along with full-spectrum, CO2-extracted CBD, the potent natural anti-inflammatory compound, derived from Cannabis, that’s gaining so much attention.

An impressive combination for pain relief, with a warm, delightful scent. Order it now, while it’s still in stock!

Available in 2 oz. jar only. Not for sale outside of USA.

Available again:
Talys Orange Woodspice Whipped Body Butter
Elderberries 

Trees and Sneezes

I just discovered a website about pollens which displays a National Allergy Map on their landing page. Right now the map shows close to 60% of the USA in medium-high status, 7.3-9.6 on their 12-point scale, with big patches of red where pollen counts are up in the high 9.7-12 range. (The low and low-medium green zones only show up as tiny chunks of the Four Corners area of the Southwest and a bit of the upper Northeast.)

In springtime it’s mainly the tree pollens that tickle those seasonal sneezes, drips, coughs, itchings, and wheezes. Here in the Pacific Northwest we’ve been enjoying a drier than normal April, meaning less rain to clean that pollen up.

Allergy sufferers—you know who you are! Something like 67 million in this country alone, and more than 80% are sensitive to tree pollens. And yes, herbs can help!

Our go-to remedy for relieving allergy symptoms is Em’s Aller-Geez Tea blend:

• Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) to soothe the itchy, watery eyes; sneezy, drippy nose; and scratchy throat that come with springtime allergies.
• Nettles (Urtica dioica) to help quiet the histamine response.
• Sage (Salvia officinalis) to work with Eyebright in drying up those flowing secretions.
• Chickweed (Stellaria media) to calm the itchiness.
• Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) to reduce inflammation, and add sugar-free sweetness so the tea is tasty and easy to drink, without added sweetening.

Additional benefits for allergies may be provided by the amazing Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidis), a treasured medicine in Asia for millenia. It's a beautiful fungus that grows on trees!

Among a long list of benefits documented for Reishi, modulating the immune system—activating it to fight infections or cancer, and down-regulating it to aid autoimmune conditions including allergies—ranks very high. (Note that Reishi is best extracted using alcohol and hot water, separately, for extended periods of time—brief infusing the fungus in hot water won’t provide the optimal effect.)

The trees aren't going anywhere! Anyway, we need them. Making pollen is part of their life cycle... as breathing is part of ours. Aller-Geez Tea can be a great part of your program for living through the springtime allergy flare, and other seasonal episodes, or constant exposures, on your personal allergy calendar.

Relieve those sore, chapped hands with Calendula!

These days, whether you’re busy working in an essential job, or mostly just staying home, you're likely following instructions for frequent handwashing. So your hands may be seriously suffering from repeated scrubbing and harsh disinfectants. Dried, chapped hands can be painful and endless cleansing can feel like punishment.

Fortunately, the humble Marigold flower, Calendula officinalis, offers a balm for your inflamed extremities! Two of our flagship products, Organic Botanicals Pure Calendula Oil and Pure Calendula Salve, can soothe that inflammation, and help heal the cracking that may come with chapped skin. Cracked skin may even become infected, and Calendula is great for controlling those infections. Dry, itchy skin? Eczema or psoriasis? Diaper rash? These products, handmade in our shop in Whatcom County, Washington, will help!

To make Organic Botanicals Pure Calendula Oil, we infuse Pacific Northwest-grown organic Calendula flowers into organic Jojoba and Sunflower oil. To make the salve, we add that infused oil to Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and beeswax (all organic, of course), creating a rich salve that absorbs into your skin cleanly.

Marigold flowers have been used in healing since the Middle Ages. In our time, research supporting their traditional uses is plentiful. Calendula’s benefits for inflammation have been shown in all kinds of situations, from diaper rash, aging skin, and dermatitis due to radiation treatment in breast cancer patients, to chemically induced colitis and exposure to cigarette smoke in animal tests.

Wound healing effects have also been documented for oral lesions and cut achilles tendons in experiments, and for speedier recovery from cesarean sections. Calendula extract has shown activity against a variety of disease-causing bacteria and fungi.

No kidding. You’ll want to keep a jar of our premium Pure Calendula Salve, or a bottle of the excellent Pure Calendula Oil, right at hand—now more than ever!

Plants have a genius for self-defense, and they can help protect us

The underlying magic of herbal medicine reflects the basic unity of Earth’s life forms.

People, animals, and plants all share a planet that teems with microscopic life forms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The effects of these tiny critters range in various degrees from nurturing, to neutral, to harmful.  

Plants offer us a potentially enormous range of compounds, developed over millions of years in order to defend themselves against disease-causing microorganisms, and to control oxidative and inflammatory processes that impair health.

Over the millennia of our existence, humans have learned to use certain plants, rich in these protective chemicals, to aid our immune defenses and combat invasive microbes, and to avoid other plants whose defensive chemistry is toxic to our systems.

Sometimes the protective effects and the toxicity are closely linked. If you look through old herbal medicine books, you’ll find many powerful plants that are currently considered unsafe, but were commonly used by healers until fairly recently.  

Today’s herbal healing aims to focus on plant allies that are both safe and effective. We benefit from a globally connected culture where plant lore from all parts of the world is increasingly shared. Medicinal plants from many regional healing traditions have become widely available, and a great deal of information about these plants, including many research studies, can be readily accessed. (Go to the National Institute of Health’s PubMed website and enter the name of an herb in the search box—you may be amazed at what comes up!)

At this time, little can be stated with certainty about the SARS-type coronavirus known as Covid-19, so these notes are general in nature, and no specific claims are made or implied here.

Many official statements insist that there is no treatment known to be effective for coping with colds or flus, including the current pandemic. Yet there is a wealth of information, from both traditional healing methods and research studies, that emphatically suggests otherwise. Those of us who seek positive steps to take toward our own and our families’ health need to sift through this information with caution and discernment.

Let’s get slightly technical for a minute about some of the ways that herbs and essential oils can help our bodies cope with viral threats. Many of us interact with computers frequently, but don’t have an everyday need to deal with the intricacies of cell biology. Our bodies manifest innate abilities that keep most of us healthy, most of the time, requiring no special knowledge or effort!

Recall that a computer virus is a little bit of software code, designed to invade your computer or smartphone and take advantage of the device’s resources to spread copies of itself into other machines.

Similarly, a biological virus is basically just a tiny cluster of information, coded as DNA or RNA, and enclosed in a protein coat, that’s only able to reproduce and spread itself by hijacking the functional parts of cells in a larger organism, like a bacterium, plant, or animal. Multiple steps are required to carry this process out, including binding the host cell’s membrane, interfering with the cell’s defenses, and releasing new virus particles from the infected cell.

Various antiviral compounds (herbal or pharmaceutical) interfere with these actions at different places in the sequence. Since the term antiviral is often used in a general way, it’s worth emphasizing this point: “antivirals” work through specific mechanisms that may be effective against certain types of viruses but not others. For instance, a number of herbs have been shown to act against herpes viruses, which are DNA-based, and may not affect RNA viruses such as hepatitis C, influenza, and coronavirus.

Direct action against viral infection
This often involves blocking or impairing the virus’ ability to invade host cells, or inhibiting its replication after it has entered the cell. A recent study on Elderberry highlights this phase of its protective action. The attachment point for SARS-type coronaviruses is the ACE-2 linkage on the surface of many types of cell, including in the lungs. Some of the herbs and plant compounds that protect the ACE-2 enzyme are Licorice (pictured above), Elder, and luteolin (found in many foods, and in herbs such as Chamomile and Thyme). This is important for helping to minimize lung damage from viral infection. Ginkgo biloba and Hawthorn also help increase ACE-2 levels, which tend to decline in older people.

Some of the essential oils that appear to block various phases of viral attachment or replication in laboratory experiments include Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Geranium, Lavender, Clove, and Patchouli.

Optimizing immune responses
Broadly speaking, conventional medicine has tended to focus more on fighting pathogens, while alternative approaches often look at bolstering resistance.This is a realm where herbal options like Astragalus, Echinacea, and medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, have become well-known. Stimulating T-cell production with herbs such as Licorice, Elder, and zinc, is one element of strengthening the body’s defensive efforts.

The inflammation that can accompany immune reactions is generally the source of the symptoms that come with infections, and can include both life-saving and life-threatening elements. Astragalus (pictured, right), Dong Quai, and Boneset are among herbs that protect the body by reducing levels of some of the most harmful inflammatory compounds released during advanced stages of viral infections.

Pneumonia, typically the most serious complication of viral respiratory infections like the current epidemic, is linked to inflammatory damage to the ciliated cells that move mucus out of the lungs. Plants containing berberine, such as Oregon Grape, Yerba Mansa, and California Poppy, may help to reduce this damage. The lymphatic system, integral to immune function, can also be threatened in severe cases, and lymph- and spleen-protecting herbs like Poke Root may be indicated.   

Indirect enhancement of immunity
Overall immune functioning is impaired by stress reactions and lack of sleep, so herbs and essential oils that alleviate anxiety and insomnia, and facilitate positive emotional states, can play a role in maintaining health and resisting infection. This is an area where an individualized approach is essential, as the possible variables in plant-person interactions are limitless.

Symptom relief
Fever often accompanies infection with this virus. Up to the point where extremely high temperatures may begin to cause injury, it is best considered a helpful part of the body’s healing response, as viruses are very sensitive to heat, and antibody production is increased. In the famous 1918 flu pandemic, a great many of the pneumonia deaths were likely due to the overuse of fever-reducing medicines such as aspirin. (Simply applying adequate heat to the nasal cavities and sinuses, buffered with moisture—think sauna bath!—is an intriguing natural approach to inactivating upper respiratory viral infections.)

Dehydration due to fever should be avoided, and special concerns may arise for cardiac patients whose arterial plaques could be destabilized at high temperatures.

Early stages of fever are often accompanied by chills, and diaphoretic herbs that increase circulation, including Ginger (pictured at left), Cinnamon, and Osha Root, can help. With mid-range fevers, 102-4º F, herbalists may consider cooling and relaxing herbs like mints, Yarrow, Boneset, Lemon Verbena, Lemon Balm, Wild Yam, Catnip, Lobelia, or Skullcap. Note that Astragalus, berberine-containing herbs, and others given to reduce heat, are not recommended during fevers.  

Many herbs already mentioned, such as Thyme, Licorice, Lobelia, and Catnip, can be helpful for the dry, irritable cough that is often described with the virus. Many others are worth considering, including Coltsfoot, Marshmallow, Mullein Flowers, and Slippery Elm.

We have so much to learn in these times. Information resources are bewilderingly abundant… be curious and inquisitive, be skeptical, be careful, and be kind!  

Grateful acknowledgment is made to some of the more credible sources of relevant information on antiviral herbs and essential oils we’ve found in recent days, including Paul Bergner ND, Stephen Harrod Buhner, and Shannon Becker PhD.

Premium Harvest Herbs: Locally Grown Blue Cornflowers

We take pride in the quality of our bulk herbs, selecting the best certified organic or wildcrafted leaves, flowers, roots, fruits, and resins we can obtain, and prioritizing locally grown items when possible. Lately, as we come across particularly stellar batches, we feature them as premium harvest herbs.

Organic Blue Cornflowers are scarce! When a buyer contacted us last year, seeking a source for them, we were able to locate a grower in nearby Skagit County who agreed to produce a crop for us. We dried them in our shop, and found the resulting product superior in every way to the Cornflowers we had previously obtained from Eastern Europe.

Blue Cornflowers are prized for their beautiful color, lending special appeal to teas and potpourris. They’re known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and have a special history of use for treating eye conditions: an eyewash prepared from a decoction of Cornflowers is called Eau de Casselunettes—that's French for "Water of Break-the-Eyeglasses"! They’ve also been given to improve digestion, enhance overall resistance to infection, support the liver and gall bladder, treat menstrual disorders and vaginal yeast infections, and as a diuretic in urinary tract diseases.

This is one very special trove of Cornflowers. Quantities are limited—don't miss out!

Every year, when colds and flus—“winter illnesses”—are going around, we hear things like this: “There’s no cure for the common cold… There’s nothing you can do about the flu, except get the vaccine.”

Naturally, herbal healers have long offered many ways to ward off viral upper respiratory infections, and to treat them once they take hold. Look no further than the common Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) fruit. It’s a well-established part of the old herbal lore, confirmed by research going back decades, and shown to be effective again in current scientific studies. The closely related European and North American Elderberries (S. nigra and S. canadensis) have been featured in delicious jams, pies, and wine, and used medicinally in teas and syrups to fight infection and inflammation—since forever! (For more tips on handling colds and flu, see previous blog posts, here and here.)

Maude Grieve's classic 1931 book, A Modern Herbal, compiles a great deal of the traditional lore, published at a time when herbal healing had only been recently eclipsed in Europe and the US by pharmaceutical-based medicine. Writing about Elderberry preparations, she describes their “curative power of established repute… in the early stages of severe catarrh, accompanied by shivering, sore throat, etc… one of the best preventives known against the advance of influenza and the ill effects of a chill… an invaluable cordial for colds and coughs… especially useful in cases of bronchitis and similar troubles.”

In the mid-1990s, Israeli researchers investigated Elderberry, testing its effects in the laboratory against ten different types of influenza virus. They found that within 24-48 hours, compounds in Elderberry are able to disarm the enzymes that flu viruses use to penetrate and infect healthy cells. This action provides significant protection against the onset and early stages of the flu.

They also tested Elderberry extract on human subjects in a placebo-controlled, double-blind study during a 1993 influenza outbreak at a kibbutz. More than 90% of the group receiving Elderberry were much better within two days, with nine out of ten experiencing complete recovery in two to three days, compared to six days for recovery in 90% of the control group.

Their conclusion: “No satisfactory medication to cure influenza type A and B is available. Considering the efficacy of the extract in vitro on all strains of influenza virus tested, the clinical results, its low cost, and absence of side-effects, this [Elderberry] preparation could offer a possibility for safe treatment for influenza A and B.”

Commenting on this study, Paul Bergner ND noted that Elderberry’s strategy for disabling viral penetration appears to be effective for all strains of the constantly mutating flu virus. Dr. Bergner suggests that this gives Elderberry’s preventive effect an advantage over vaccines, which are changed from year to year in order to target the specific strains of influenza that vaccine makers *guess* might be the most common types in a particular upcoming season.

According to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) website:

It’s not possible to predict with certainty if a flu vaccine will be a good match for circulating flu viruses. A flu vaccine is made to protect against the flu viruses that research and surveillance indicate will likely be most common during the season. However, scientists must pick which flu viruses to include in a flu vaccine many months in advance in order for flu vaccines to be produced and delivered on time. Also flu viruses change constantly (called “drift”). They can change from one season to the next or they can even change within the course of one flu season. Another factor that can impact vaccine effectiveness, especially against influenza A(H3N2) viruses, are changes that can occur in vaccine viruses as they are grown in eggs, which is the production method for most current flu vaccines.  Because of these factors, there is always the possibility of a less than optimal match between circulating flu viruses and the viruses in a flu vaccine (emphasis added). 

A 2004 Norwegian study, using the “gold standard” randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled methodology, gathered 60 patients, 18-54 years old, suffering from flu-like symptoms. They were given either Elderberry or placebo syrup for five days. The Elderberry group experienced relief of symptoms an average of four days sooner than the placebo subjects.

Conclusion: “Elderberry extract seems to offer an efficient, safe and cost-effective treatment for influenza.”

In 2016, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial focused on more than 300 airline passengers traveling from Australia. Compared to those receiving Elderberry extract, the subjects given placebo experienced more than twice as many days of cold symptoms, and recorded symptoms rated at more than twice the intensity.

Conclusion: Elderberry produced “a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers.”

Two studies published in 2019 are also worth mentioning here. One focuses on cyanidin 3-glucoside (Cyn 3-glu), a phytochemical believed to be a key to Elderberry’s actions against the flu virus. Using cell cultures treated either with isolated Cyn 3-glu, or with Elderberry juice, before, during, and after viral infection, researchers found that Elderberry produces direct blocking of infection, inhibition of viral replication in infected cells, and stimulation of immune responses by the cells against the invading virus. While Cyn 3-glu was a focal point for the study, other components of the berry were apparently responsible for important elements of its antiviral and immune-boosting effects.

Finally, a review article provides a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials of Elderberry for treating cold and flu symptoms. Summing up the research, the reviewers' conclusion is clear:  “Supplementation with elderberry was found to substantially reduce upper respiratory symptoms. The quantitative synthesis of the effects yielded a large mean effect size. These findings present an alternative to antibiotic misuse for upper respiratory symptoms due to viral infections, and a potentially safer alternative to prescription drugs for routine cases of the common cold and influenza" (emphasis added). 

We’re very pleased to have an abundant, aromatic supply of certified organic Elderberries to offer for sale this season, at a competitive price. Steep them as a tea, or make a tasty syrup with them—you’ll stay healthier, and feel better!

2019 was a big year for Em’s Herbals, and we foresee an even more successful 2020!

We’re so excited to be operating the business in our new location in Bellingham! Transitions often take longer than planned—this one certainly did. Happily, the new space gives us plenty of room to grow, and a fresh start for whatever our next phase will bring.

We’re gearing up to manufacture larger quantities more efficiently, while never sacrificing our commitment to making the highest quality herbal body care products and tea blends for your good health and enjoyment!

We learned a lot last year about working with local growers, and collaborating with organic farmers who deal with a tight labor market and the need to be flexible in supplying a range of produce to a variety of buyers. We ran into challenges with the limited availability of some of the plants that are essential for our signature products; we also gained experience in processing fresh herbs on-site, and anticipate exploring that option further.

Em's is excited to be expanding in the ever-changing online marketplace and the social media world. And we're out and about at markets, fairs, and herbal events! We participated in the "Home for the Holidays" crafts fair in Ferndale, Washington, in December, 2019, and we're looking forward to several gatherings in 2020!  

You can find our booth at the Home and Garden Show in Lynden, WA, in March; the BotanicFest in Veneta, Oregon, in May; and other regional events, as the year goes on.

We’re deepening our focus on private label products and custom formulations, including a new partnership with Myriad Wellness, a local innovator offering a line of organic CBD products. Health care providers, spas, and retailers will want to consider the advantages of working with a nimble, knowledgeable source for botanical body care and medicinal products. We'll share more about these developments as plans emerge.

The decade of the 2020's promises to be a turning point for the planet. We share the widely held intentions of addressing the challenges of this crucial era with sustainable solutions for the large and small needs that confront us as individuals and organizations. Look to us at Em’s Herbals for clean, effective, and affordable tools to help create the plant-based, Earth-friendly future that our children and their children need and demand.

Our best wishes to all for a happy and fulfilling new year!

"Moving Targets" Bulk Herb Discounts IV: Herbs for Detoxification

Today, many people are naturally interested in improving health and combating chronic illnesses by cleansing and detoxifying the body. In a world where pollution and dangerous chemicals are all too common, healing herbs can play a vital role in helping to remove harmful compounds from the tissues where they accumulate.

Among the herbs included in our current “moving targets” 40% off sale, here are six that shine for their ability to assist detox regimens! Of course, all are certified organic, and several are sourced here in the Pacific Northwest.

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale, pictured above) is a rich source of antioxidants that neutralize harmful free radicals and help to protect the liver—the single most important organ for eliminating toxins from your body. Reducing LDL cholesterol and fighting harmful bacteria, this root makes a great addition to your cleansing program.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa), is another Eurasian member of the Daisy family, prescribed by herbalists to purify the blood and cool internal heat. Bolstering lymphatic drainage, increasing urine output, supporting liver and spleen function, and enhancing circulation to the skin, Burdock Root is a natural for detox formulas.

Yellow Dock Root (Rumex crispus) offers special benefits as a cholagogue (increasing bile flow) and a bitter digestive stimulant, containing emodin, among other phytonutrients. Yellow Dock’s cleansing laxative and diuretic effects help balance hormones, making for easier menstrual cycles. It's high in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and iron, and great as a topical treatment for many skin conditions.

Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is a traditional “cure-all” herb, long used to aid the kidneys, liver, and gall bladder, improve digestion and appetite, promote excretion through increased urination and perspiration, and help the flow of milk for lactating mothers.

Artichoke Leaf (Cynara scolymus) stimulates and protects the liver and reduces harmful cholesterol, chelates heavy metals in the blood, boosts stomach acid and digestive enzyme production, lowers blood pressure, and may help relieve irritable bowel syndrome.

Juniper Berries (Juniperus communis), famous as a crisp flavoring for gin, are also well known for increasing urinary flow. There is historical and experimental evidence for its uses as diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, analgesic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihypercholesterolemic, antibacterial, anticataleptic, and neuroprotective in Parkinson's disease.

More "Moving Target" sale herbs: Alfalfa, Ashwagandha, Astragalus, Basil, Black Cohosh, Blackberry Leaf, Boneset, Catnip, Dandelion Leaf,  Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea, Feverfew, Ginger, Lemon Peel, Lemongrass, Lobelia, Marshmallow, Motherwort, Mullein Leaf, Nutmeg, Oat Tops, Peppermint, Rosehip shells, Sage, Spearmint, Thyme, Valerian, Wild Cherry Bark, and Wild Yam.

"Moving Targets" Bulk Herb Discounts III: Herbs for Pain, Cramps, and Insomnia

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.

“Moving Targets” Bulk Herb Discounts II: Cold & Cough Relief

As we work toward big reductions in our inventory of bulk herbs, pending our move into new quarters, we’re offering a 40% discount on selected bulk herbs—while supplies last. In our last post, we looked at several of these healing plants for their value in enhancing immune function and helping to cut the risk of coming down with colds and flus.

Now let’s consider another group from this list of discounted herbs, traditionally valued for their benefits in relieving cold symptoms, and especially coughs.

Perhaps the best known among these is Wild Cherry Bark (Prunus serotina), harvested from a tree native to many parts of North, Central, and South America that was cultivated by indigenous inhabitants for food and medicine long before European settlement. It’s widely used in herbal and commercial cough syrups to calm the nerves that stimulate coughing, reduce mucus, and promote restful sleep.

Mullein Leaf (Verbascum spp., pictured above) is an herb originating in Eurasia that is traditionally revered for treating lung conditions like chest colds, coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and pertussis. Both demulcent and astringent, it soothes pain and inflammation, calms spasms, and is antiseptic and mildly sedative. These qualities can also make Mullein Leaf useful for conditions affecting the urinary tract and gut.

Elecampane Root (Inula helenium) is likewise famed as a “lung herb,” with soothing demulcent properties, in addition to strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that are beneficial for many other types of illness too. Note—Elecampane Root's unique, pleasingly bitter flavor is winning attention from innovative chefs!

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) helps clear mucus from the lungs, and is recommended by Dr. Andrew Weil as part of a formula for asthma. Used by Native Americans for sore throats, croup, pain, and numerous other complaints, Lobelia is also known as “Indian tobacco,” and contains a compound that binds nicotine receptors and thus can play a part in programs for tobacco cessation.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a savory kitchen herb that some will recall as a flavoring in Grandma’s Thanksgiving turkey stuffing. It has a long history in herbal medicine as an antiseptic and antimicrobial. Sage's astringent, drying nature comes into play for reducing all kinds of secretions, including sinus, nasal, and lung congestion.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is another delicious culinary favorite with impressive healing credentials, from ancient lore right up through current research. It contains thymol, a powerful and versatile germ-fighting and antispasmodic compound that helps clear mucus, quell coughs, and mobilize immunity.

Remember, this special 40% off, while-supplies-last discount on retail and wholesale prices also applies to Alfalfa, Artichoke Leaf, Ashwagandha, Astragalus (cut pieces and shredded), Basil, Black Cohosh, Blackberry Leaf, Blessed Thistle, Boneset, Burdock Root, Catnip, Dandelion Leaf, Dandelion Root, Feverfew, Ginger, Juniper Berries, Lemon Peel, Lemongrass, Marshmallow, Motherwort, Mullein Leaf, Oat Tops, Peppermint, Rosehip shells, Spearmint, Valerian, Wild Yam, and Yellow Dock.

“Moving Targets” Bulk Herb Discounts  I: Immune Boosters

A warm Thank you! to the many customers who took advantage of our recent moving sale on bulk herbs, helping us reduce our inventory during this transition.

We’re still in the process of moving, working in temporary quarters while construction is finishing on our new space. And we still want to cut that inventory down. Now we’re targeting selected herbs, and offering even greater savings: price reductions of 40%!

Prices listed here are for 2 ounce retail orders, but please note that all sizes, as well as wholesale orders, are similarly marked down, while supplies last. Check the end of this post for the full list of herbs discounted in this special sale.

Some of the herbs we’ve chosen for this sale are familiar, some less so—but each is stellar, in its own way, and well worth getting to know. To highlight the healing value of these plants, we’re doing a series of messages, grouping many of them by their most widely recognized applications, with quick descriptions.

First, let’s look at five remarkable herbs that boost immune function. Cold season is well underway. Influenza time can't be too far behind. The only thing better than symptom relief and faster recovery from these very common illnesses (we’ll look at herbs to help with those next!) is... not getting sick in the first place!

Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea roots stand out as popular favorites among North American herbs for avoiding and treating upper respiratory infections. They’re best taken at the first sign of illness to increase the body’s resistance and reduce inflammation.
While E. purpurea, larger and easier to cultivate, has been studied more, many herbalists believe that E. angustifolia, richer in echinacosides, may be the more potent of the two. We sell both of these Echinacea species, organically grown in the Pacific Northwest, cut and sifted, and ready for steeping as tea or tincture.
Retail prices:
2 oz. Echinacea angustifolia, regular $7.65, now just $4.60
2 oz. Echinacea purpurea, regular $6.40, now $3.85

Astragalus root (A. membranaceus), a treasured herb from Chinese medicine, is often used in formulas for long-term enhancement of immune function. In addition to helping ward off colds and flus, and fighting viral and bacterial infections, Astragalus is considered an energy tonic that can be useful in asthma, diabetes, fatigue and fibromyalgia, hepatitis, tumors and chemotherapy issues, wound healing, and a range of other conditions.
2 oz. Astragalus, cut pieces, regular $2.55, now $1.55
2 oz. Astragalus, shredded, regular $5.70, now $3.40

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), shown in the photo accompanying this post is another North American native. It's a powerful immune-boosting herb for helping to fight off respiratory and other infections, and for treating them when they’re already established. Boneset is especially renowned among herbalists for helping to relieve the deep aching pains that often accompany the onset of flu, and similar pains in illnesses like malaria and dengue fever.
2 oz. Boneset, regular $2.55, now $1.55

Rosehips (Rosa canina) are on the other end of the herbal spectrum—a good-tasting, nutrient-rich fruit, suitable for everyday consumption—in contrast to strong, bitter medicinal allies like Echinacea or Boneset. Full of vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and other antioxidants, Rosehip tea is a traditional remedy for viral infections, cystitis, arthritis, etc., and a promising nutraceutical for protecting the nervous system and liver, and helping to prevent many chronic conditions related to aging and inflammation.
2 oz. Rosehip shells, regular $3.70, now $2.20

Other "moving target" herbs now marked down to 40% off regular price:

Alfalfa, Artichoke Leaf, Ashwagandha, Basil, Black Cohosh, Blackberry Leaf, Blessed Thistle, Burdock Root, Catnip, Dandelion Leaf, Dandelion Root, Elecampane, Feverfew, Ginger, Juniper Berries, Lemon Peel, Lemongrass, Lobelia, Marshmallow, Motherwort, Mullein Leaf, Nutmeg Powder, Oat Tops, Peppermint, Sage, Spearmint, Thyme, Valerian, Wild Cherry Bark, Wild Yam, Yellow Dock

Study: drinking tea improves brain health!

A study, conducted recently by researchers at the National University of Singapore, and published in the journal Aging, found that people who drink tea (Camellia sinensis—black, green, or oolong tea) regularly appear to be protected against age-related declines in brain organization. Neuroimaging and other data collected from 36 adults, age 60 and older, showed that those who drank tea at least four time per week for around 25 years had brain regions that were connected in a more efficient way.

Previous studies have shown tea’s benefits for reducing stress and improving mood, boosting memory, preventing cardiovascular disease, and cutting the risk of cancer.

As the seasons shift and temperatures cool, summer's relaxation gives way to greater expectations for performance on the job and at school, and the pleasures and advantages of regular tea drinking are clear!

Em’s Herbals inventory currently features three classic and very distinct variants of C. sinensis: bracing Sencha Green, flowery Jasmine Pearls (pictured at left), and smoky Lapsang Souchang. Emily has also formulated a wonderful Chai Spice blend, a delicious combination of spices that can add a whopping extra antioxidant punch to a hot cuppa, or make a tasty caffeine-free pick-me-up by itself, perhaps sweetened and combined with milk or a nondairy substitute like coconut, soy, or almond "milk."

What could be more perfect than stocking up on these great brews, entering the time of year when you'll most want to treat yourself, your family, and guests to the joys and comforts of tea. Some of us still remember that old line, “Take tea and see!”