Kindle Notes & Highlights
Bay leaves are a tonic for the whole system. After an attack of fever, or chronic bronchitis, make this cold-weather infusion. Pour a cupful of water over a small Bay leaf and a couple of pieces of dried Orange peel; cover and leave to infuse for 15 minutes. Sweeten with a little honey and sip.
GARLIC Imagine a new wonder-drug which could help cure cases of pneumonia, bronchitis and tuberculosis; improve resistance to infectious disease; treat high blood pressure; lower cholesterol levels; act as a tonic to the heart and digestive system; diminish the chances of getting cancer; clear up urinary infections and infestation by worms; deal
with ear infections; stop wounds turning septic; and keep old age at bay. All this is achieved with virtually zero toxicity. Any pharmaceutical company that announced the launch of such a drug would be greeted with howls of derision. I buy it in quantity at my greengrocer: Garlic, of course.
Cumin is diuretic, it eases and disperses flatulence. In food, sauces or stews, it helps digestion.
Turmeric is valued as a blood purifier, an excellent natural antibiotic, and a tonic to the metabolism.
It is used to regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve cramps, to reduce fevers, improve poor circulation and to help sort out skin disorders. As first aid, it is used for boils, burns, sprains, swelling and bruises.
Dandelion leaves are also a tonic for the blood and liver; a famous diuretic, they help get rid of excess cholesterol, and people with rheumatic or skin
complaints should eat plenty of them.
For sore throats and hoarseness, a tablespoon of Blackberry jam can be sucked and swallowed slowly; like the Bilberry, the Blackberry is astringent and antiseptic.
Chamomile is an anti-spasmodic that has been used for centuries for convulsions, ague and colicky pain; it soothes the nerves and calms the digestion (but drink it before rather than after meals).
HIBISCUS FLOWERS This Tea looks very pretty, with its deep claret colour, and tastes particularly refreshing on a hot day. However, it is also a good cooling Tea, good for mild fevers, or for drinking when you are particularly hot and thirsty. It is also useful for minor stomach complaints.
Peppermint Tea. If you make it from the fresh plant growing on your own window-sill it will be better still, a beautiful, bright green brew. Peppermint Tea will allay gripes, cramps and spasms, and calm nausea.
A teaspoonful of dried leaves should be infused in a cupful of boiling water, covered; or use a tablespoonful of the fresh leaves.
Aloe Vera is a clear gel from the thick greyish-green leaves of a cactus, renowned for its powers to soothe and heal.
