SURVIVAL HERBS
Many of us are in continuous “Survival Mode.” Just the pace of our lives and the density of our schedules leave little room for breathing space. Our daily conversations are riddled with information about the Financial Crisis, the Gun Crisis, the International Crisis, and the Climate Crisis. In fact, our lives seem to bounce from crisis to crisis;
so how do we define normal? What is our base-line?
Whatever the definition of normal for you, you can find strength and sustenance by gathering HERBS about you and familiarizing yourself with their versatility.
With climate change, we cannot depend on living through the same lovely January snowstorms; blustery March days; rainy days in April; and sunny, playful summers. Just looking back over the past two years will remind us of severe weather volatility. We are thankful here that the tornados of 2011 swept by us without effect. Draught conditions in 2012 crippled farms and production across the United States; as floods elsewhere devastated whole towns. (Have you heard that the “3rd World War” will be fought over water?) By now we know that our fearful discussions about the “end of the Mayan Calendar” were not warranted; but we still view the devastation and remains of hurricane “Sandy.” We noticed how desperate Sandy’s victims became as the cold drew near.
We really are not prepared for loss of power.
We should ask ourselves the questions: How will we manage if electrical channels are interrupted for weeks or months? What will happen if satellite systems go off-line? How will we communicate? I have long felt that we are too dependent on electricity. The television show “Revolution” depicts the story of mankind fighting for survival after such a loss. Without electricity, we are in mortal danger. With that in mind, John and I have had quite a few conversations about what we should do about Climate Change, food production, and fuel reserves.
Many of us have begun to make preparations for disasters.
It is a good idea to consort with family and friends and develop an overall approach to disaster- focusing both on “get-away” and “hole-up.” Thinking of both immediate and sustained depletion, these terms become more real. If you are in emergent danger; have a “get-away” kit that you can grab-and-go. If you are isolated, and know that supplies are at a premium; have a stash of supplies that you have prepared, so that you can “hole-up.”
As Herbalists, we may be called upon to utilize our knowledge of nature to soothe fear, illness or injury. In disaster’s aftermath, there may be no physician or pharmacy available. We may need to become the “neighborhood dispensary.” Fortunately, we can prepare and preserve many of the herbs we know for later use. We talked in the Nov / Dec. issue of EH about preparations for our “Herbal Medicine Chest.” With that as a beginning, we should think about HERBS for Survival, too. Each season, you can gather and preserve HERBS to keep in your “First Aide HERB Kit.” As a matter of fact, it would be a good idea to share ideas within your family and neighbors- perhaps to initiate a “Community Medicine Chest”- assigning several HERBS, formulas, salves to each participant.
As a practitioner, I can think of quite a few scenarios that we would encounter after a climactic or power tragedy. For now, think about your family-their special needs- and how each scenario could apply to you. Take inventory of the HERBS you have, barter with friends and neighbors, and begin to build your “First Aide HERB Kit.” You may have your HERBS prepared into tinctures (which can last for years) dried (for use as needed later) or in prepared bulk packages (which are easily stored.)
We should always share HERBAL ideas. However, you should be certain to investigate for yourself which would be most appropriate for your family. Unlike prescription medications, most HERBS are not just specifics- they can be utilized for multiple conditions.
You will want to create both a temporary and a permanent stash of Survival HERBS. The temporary stash is a hand-held portable “kit” that you consider “grab and go.” A permanent stash will consist of bulk herbs, tinctures and salves that you can access over a long period of time, should the need arise.
We will discuss Emergency First Aide HERBS, but I would like to talk to you first about Adaptogens, Antioxidants, and Nervines.
Human STRESS RESPONSE begins primarily by flooding the body with adrenalin and other hormones to cope with immediate danger and shock. Thereafter, a prolonged release of stress hormones adds vital “staying power” to the internal organs as the body adapts to stress. As prolonged stress depletes hormone reserves, the body dips into immune reserves to sustain the strain the body is absorbing. Over time, immunity production can temporarily be suppressed (decreased production of white blood cells that combat invasion) and the body is vulnerable to attack. It is important to include Adaptogens which “counter chronic immune cell depletion, and improve the body’s defenses by increasing the production of specialized cells, including helper T cells, B cells, and NK cells. They also produce an increased secretion of cortisol in response to injury or infection and have a direct effect on the nervous system, allowing for an improved mind-body connection.” [ADAPTOGENS Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by David Winston and Steven Maimes] (There is an interesting discussion in the aforementioned source about the Hans Selye’s “General Adaption Syndrome”: The three stages of Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion); that have been noticed in victims of prolonged stress such as the families of 9/11 victims, tornado victims of 2011, and victims of Hurricane Sandy.
Both HERBAL preparation and HERBAL resuscitation by the use of Adaptogens should be included in regimens to sustain health during disasters. With today’s pace and unrelenting tension, our bodies can be supported by regimens that include Adaptogens. During disasters, Adaptogens can help us sustain the emotional and physical demands placed upon us.
Include one or more of the following Adaptogens and Complimentaries in your “Get-away” bag. Keep a varied selection with your “hole-up” stash.
Adaptogens such as Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, American Ginseng, Schisandra, He Shou Wu, Asian Ginseng, and Reishi; as well as
Complimentary HERBS such as Lavender and Rose work with the body to ameliorate stressors.
Stress wears away and adds unnecessary deposits to blood vessels, and vital organs. Think of a rusty pipe. Over time, a new pipe corrodes and becomes rusty. Oxygen and water facilitate rust- the pipe may even clog with minerals or solids that would normally pass through. That is what happens with our blood vessels when they “oxidate.” If the vessels are in the heart- we could have a heart attack; in the brain- maybe a stroke; in the eyes- declining sight; in the kidneys- decreased ability to purify the blood; in the gut- incomplete digestion (indigestion.) Antioxidants defend the cells from what is termed “free radical damage.” This damage causes inflammation in the vessel walls.
In your “get-away” bag, you should pack Elderberry tincture, capsules, or the dried berries. Stock up (‘hole-up’) on Elderberries which are also antiviral and protect against influenza- and from which you can make tincture and syrup. Stock up also on these other incredible Antioxidants: Ginger (great for nausea), Turmeric (improves circulation and decreases inflammation-especially of the digestion), Burdock (great for liver and skin cleansing internally), Hawthorn (specific for the heart), Ginkgo (for the brain) and Green Tea.
Nervines help allay both anxiety and depression. As simple as a bowl of oatmeal or Cheerios – Oats work to calm the nerves; Oat baths soothe the skin. Nervines work with Adaptogens to sustain us during stress.
To allay anxiety: Oat Milky Seed (the immature Oat seed) Chamomile, Hawthorn, Skullcap, and Passionflower.
The following Antioxidants allay depression: St. John’s Wort, Mimosa, Lavender, Lemon Balm, and Rosemary.
It is also important to understand the potential of “HERBS Underfoot.” These are the everyday plants that grow around us that we can utilize remedially.
Root HERBS, such as Burdock, Carrot, Dandelion, Wild Carrot, Sassafras, Ginseng, Golden Seal, Marshmallow, Solomon’s Seal, Spikenard, Garlic, Ginger, Ramps, Poke Weed, Sarsaparilla, Kudzu, and Yellow Root can be stored where they grow. See [Wild Roots by Doug Elliott] for a “forager’s guide to edible and medicinal roots.” As long as you know where to find them; if you can get to them- time is on your side.
If you are familiar with the $ saving practice of Homeopathy, you will find that you can purchase and carry a portable dispensary in the form of a “family, children’s or pet” kit (complete with instruction booklet) in the space of a small cosmetic bag.
You may also want to include Essential Oils as part of an Aromatherapy approach. Compact and effective,
Essential Oils of Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Thyme AND Lavender are ALL antibiotic, antifungal, antiseptic, AND antiviral.
Essential Oils of Lavender and Frankincense are both effective for Sudden Trauma in an Aromatherapy capacity.
What should you stock for a personal Emergency? This will be highly individualized for your family; however, a “systems review” may be helpful. What are the prevalent conditions or illnesses that your family experiences? You will want to consider the usual treatments for those. You may not be able to access a pharmacy, so consider now what HERBAL substitutes you may need. Here are some suggestions:
Antibiotic: Sage, Garlic, Thyme, Tee Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Boneset.
Antifungal: Tee Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Yellowroot, and Black Walnut.
Antiseptic: Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Thyme, and Yellowroot.
Antiviral: Boneset, Elderberry, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Thyme.
Colds/Cough/Influenza/Allergies: Elderberry, Boneset, Marshmallow, Wild Cherry Bark, Mullein, Elecampane, Red Clover, Goldenrod, Lobelia, Slippery Elm, and Nettles.
Digestion: Mints (esp. Peppermint) Agrimony, Boneset, Nettles, Burdock, Ginger, Sweet Gum Bark, Carrots, Elderberry, and Yellowroot.
Emotional: See Nervines above
Fever: Boneset, Elderberry, Red Clover, Nettles, Sumac, and Sweet Gum.
Injury: Yarrow, Comfrey, Birch Bark, Virburnum Bark, Calendula, Lavender, Thyme, Sage, Garlic, and Honey.
Joint Pain/ Immobility: Horsetail, True Solomon’s Seal, Comfrey, and Viburnum.
Pain/Spasm: White Willow, Viburnum, Birch Bark, Joe-Pye Weed, Black Cohosh, and Skullcap, Lobelia.
Skin: Calendula, Jewelweed, Sumac, Witch hazel, Honey, and White Oak.
As you look at the lists above, you can see that many of the HERBS are mentioned more than once. By familiarizing yourself with their applications, you can condense the number of HERBS you should sequester.
And last: Don’t forget Medicinal Foods. Treat this storage application like you treat “Your body in Winter.” [See My Article “Seasonal Support” in the Sept/Oct issue of EH] Remember, you will be on the road to depletion. You must rebuild, nourish, and sustain yourself. “Root vegetables and Mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Chaga; and Cordyceps are highly nutritious. Even mushrooms such as those we know as “button” or Portobello enrich the ‘immunity stew.’ ” Dry and Store foods with bright yellow, red, blue, purple, green color. Store Whole Grains and Rice. Hoard Honey- it lasts for years, and its medicinal value increases as it ages. Don’t forget plain-old salt. Its value is golden; not only for seasoning, but also for its medicinal use as a compress, wash, and soak.
You may suffer a personal disaster, such as a need to flee from your home or a wide-spread disaster such as a fire, flood, or wind damage. With your “get-away” HERB bag, you will feel confident that you can meet your family’s short-term needs.
If you are isolated at home by a prolonged power outage, local siege, or weather conditions; you can feel safer, knowing that you are prepared to “hole-in” for the long haul with the forethought of your Sequestered HERB Stockpile.
I would like to leave you with a recipe by Tommie Bass
The HERB Man from Cherokee, County Alabama 1908-1996
[Courtesy of Darrel Patton.]
Cough Syrup/Medicine Recipe
Half Teacup Mullein Leaves
Half Teacup Sweet Gum Bark
Half Teacup Slippery Elm Bark
Half Teacup Wild Cherry Bark
Half Teacup Wild Ginger Roots
Bring one gallon water to a boil- simmer everything for 25 minutes. Strain and add 2-4 pounds of honey or sugar.
The more you add, the stronger/thicker the syrup.
1 Tablespoon as needed for Adults
1 teaspoon as needed for Children.
Many of us are in continuous “Survival Mode.” Just the pace of our lives and the density of our schedules leave little room for breathing space. Our daily conversations are riddled with information about the Financial Crisis, the Gun Crisis, the International Crisis, and the Climate Crisis. In fact, our lives seem to bounce from crisis to crisis;
so how do we define normal? What is our base-line?
Whatever the definition of normal for you, you can find strength and sustenance by gathering HERBS about you and familiarizing yourself with their versatility.
With climate change, we cannot depend on living through the same lovely January snowstorms; blustery March days; rainy days in April; and sunny, playful summers. Just looking back over the past two years will remind us of severe weather volatility. We are thankful here that the tornados of 2011 swept by us without effect. Draught conditions in 2012 crippled farms and production across the United States; as floods elsewhere devastated whole towns. (Have you heard that the “3rd World War” will be fought over water?) By now we know that our fearful discussions about the “end of the Mayan Calendar” were not warranted; but we still view the devastation and remains of hurricane “Sandy.” We noticed how desperate Sandy’s victims became as the cold drew near.
We really are not prepared for loss of power.
We should ask ourselves the questions: How will we manage if electrical channels are interrupted for weeks or months? What will happen if satellite systems go off-line? How will we communicate? I have long felt that we are too dependent on electricity. The television show “Revolution” depicts the story of mankind fighting for survival after such a loss. Without electricity, we are in mortal danger. With that in mind, John and I have had quite a few conversations about what we should do about Climate Change, food production, and fuel reserves.
Many of us have begun to make preparations for disasters.
It is a good idea to consort with family and friends and develop an overall approach to disaster- focusing both on “get-away” and “hole-up.” Thinking of both immediate and sustained depletion, these terms become more real. If you are in emergent danger; have a “get-away” kit that you can grab-and-go. If you are isolated, and know that supplies are at a premium; have a stash of supplies that you have prepared, so that you can “hole-up.”
As Herbalists, we may be called upon to utilize our knowledge of nature to soothe fear, illness or injury. In disaster’s aftermath, there may be no physician or pharmacy available. We may need to become the “neighborhood dispensary.” Fortunately, we can prepare and preserve many of the herbs we know for later use. We talked in the Nov / Dec. issue of EH about preparations for our “Herbal Medicine Chest.” With that as a beginning, we should think about HERBS for Survival, too. Each season, you can gather and preserve HERBS to keep in your “First Aide HERB Kit.” As a matter of fact, it would be a good idea to share ideas within your family and neighbors- perhaps to initiate a “Community Medicine Chest”- assigning several HERBS, formulas, salves to each participant.
As a practitioner, I can think of quite a few scenarios that we would encounter after a climactic or power tragedy. For now, think about your family-their special needs- and how each scenario could apply to you. Take inventory of the HERBS you have, barter with friends and neighbors, and begin to build your “First Aide HERB Kit.” You may have your HERBS prepared into tinctures (which can last for years) dried (for use as needed later) or in prepared bulk packages (which are easily stored.)
We should always share HERBAL ideas. However, you should be certain to investigate for yourself which would be most appropriate for your family. Unlike prescription medications, most HERBS are not just specifics- they can be utilized for multiple conditions.
You will want to create both a temporary and a permanent stash of Survival HERBS. The temporary stash is a hand-held portable “kit” that you consider “grab and go.” A permanent stash will consist of bulk herbs, tinctures and salves that you can access over a long period of time, should the need arise.
We will discuss Emergency First Aide HERBS, but I would like to talk to you first about Adaptogens, Antioxidants, and Nervines.
Human STRESS RESPONSE begins primarily by flooding the body with adrenalin and other hormones to cope with immediate danger and shock. Thereafter, a prolonged release of stress hormones adds vital “staying power” to the internal organs as the body adapts to stress. As prolonged stress depletes hormone reserves, the body dips into immune reserves to sustain the strain the body is absorbing. Over time, immunity production can temporarily be suppressed (decreased production of white blood cells that combat invasion) and the body is vulnerable to attack. It is important to include Adaptogens which “counter chronic immune cell depletion, and improve the body’s defenses by increasing the production of specialized cells, including helper T cells, B cells, and NK cells. They also produce an increased secretion of cortisol in response to injury or infection and have a direct effect on the nervous system, allowing for an improved mind-body connection.” [ADAPTOGENS Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by David Winston and Steven Maimes] (There is an interesting discussion in the aforementioned source about the Hans Selye’s “General Adaption Syndrome”: The three stages of Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion); that have been noticed in victims of prolonged stress such as the families of 9/11 victims, tornado victims of 2011, and victims of Hurricane Sandy.
Both HERBAL preparation and HERBAL resuscitation by the use of Adaptogens should be included in regimens to sustain health during disasters. With today’s pace and unrelenting tension, our bodies can be supported by regimens that include Adaptogens. During disasters, Adaptogens can help us sustain the emotional and physical demands placed upon us.
Include one or more of the following Adaptogens and Complimentaries in your “Get-away” bag. Keep a varied selection with your “hole-up” stash.
Adaptogens such as Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, American Ginseng, Schisandra, He Shou Wu, Asian Ginseng, and Reishi; as well as
Complimentary HERBS such as Lavender and Rose work with the body to ameliorate stressors.
Stress wears away and adds unnecessary deposits to blood vessels, and vital organs. Think of a rusty pipe. Over time, a new pipe corrodes and becomes rusty. Oxygen and water facilitate rust- the pipe may even clog with minerals or solids that would normally pass through. That is what happens with our blood vessels when they “oxidate.” If the vessels are in the heart- we could have a heart attack; in the brain- maybe a stroke; in the eyes- declining sight; in the kidneys- decreased ability to purify the blood; in the gut- incomplete digestion (indigestion.) Antioxidants defend the cells from what is termed “free radical damage.” This damage causes inflammation in the vessel walls.
In your “get-away” bag, you should pack Elderberry tincture, capsules, or the dried berries. Stock up (‘hole-up’) on Elderberries which are also antiviral and protect against influenza- and from which you can make tincture and syrup. Stock up also on these other incredible Antioxidants: Ginger (great for nausea), Turmeric (improves circulation and decreases inflammation-especially of the digestion), Burdock (great for liver and skin cleansing internally), Hawthorn (specific for the heart), Ginkgo (for the brain) and Green Tea.
Nervines help allay both anxiety and depression. As simple as a bowl of oatmeal or Cheerios – Oats work to calm the nerves; Oat baths soothe the skin. Nervines work with Adaptogens to sustain us during stress.
To allay anxiety: Oat Milky Seed (the immature Oat seed) Chamomile, Hawthorn, Skullcap, and Passionflower.
The following Antioxidants allay depression: St. John’s Wort, Mimosa, Lavender, Lemon Balm, and Rosemary.
It is also important to understand the potential of “HERBS Underfoot.” These are the everyday plants that grow around us that we can utilize remedially.
Root HERBS, such as Burdock, Carrot, Dandelion, Wild Carrot, Sassafras, Ginseng, Golden Seal, Marshmallow, Solomon’s Seal, Spikenard, Garlic, Ginger, Ramps, Poke Weed, Sarsaparilla, Kudzu, and Yellow Root can be stored where they grow. See [Wild Roots by Doug Elliott] for a “forager’s guide to edible and medicinal roots.” As long as you know where to find them; if you can get to them- time is on your side.
If you are familiar with the $ saving practice of Homeopathy, you will find that you can purchase and carry a portable dispensary in the form of a “family, children’s or pet” kit (complete with instruction booklet) in the space of a small cosmetic bag.
You may also want to include Essential Oils as part of an Aromatherapy approach. Compact and effective,
Essential Oils of Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Thyme AND Lavender are ALL antibiotic, antifungal, antiseptic, AND antiviral.
Essential Oils of Lavender and Frankincense are both effective for Sudden Trauma in an Aromatherapy capacity.
What should you stock for a personal Emergency? This will be highly individualized for your family; however, a “systems review” may be helpful. What are the prevalent conditions or illnesses that your family experiences? You will want to consider the usual treatments for those. You may not be able to access a pharmacy, so consider now what HERBAL substitutes you may need. Here are some suggestions:
Antibiotic: Sage, Garlic, Thyme, Tee Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Boneset.
Antifungal: Tee Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Yellowroot, and Black Walnut.
Antiseptic: Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Thyme, and Yellowroot.
Antiviral: Boneset, Elderberry, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Thyme.
Colds/Cough/Influenza/Allergies: Elderberry, Boneset, Marshmallow, Wild Cherry Bark, Mullein, Elecampane, Red Clover, Goldenrod, Lobelia, Slippery Elm, and Nettles.
Digestion: Mints (esp. Peppermint) Agrimony, Boneset, Nettles, Burdock, Ginger, Sweet Gum Bark, Carrots, Elderberry, and Yellowroot.
Emotional: See Nervines above
Fever: Boneset, Elderberry, Red Clover, Nettles, Sumac, and Sweet Gum.
Injury: Yarrow, Comfrey, Birch Bark, Virburnum Bark, Calendula, Lavender, Thyme, Sage, Garlic, and Honey.
Joint Pain/ Immobility: Horsetail, True Solomon’s Seal, Comfrey, and Viburnum.
Pain/Spasm: White Willow, Viburnum, Birch Bark, Joe-Pye Weed, Black Cohosh, and Skullcap, Lobelia.
Skin: Calendula, Jewelweed, Sumac, Witch hazel, Honey, and White Oak.
As you look at the lists above, you can see that many of the HERBS are mentioned more than once. By familiarizing yourself with their applications, you can condense the number of HERBS you should sequester.
And last: Don’t forget Medicinal Foods. Treat this storage application like you treat “Your body in Winter.” [See My Article “Seasonal Support” in the Sept/Oct issue of EH] Remember, you will be on the road to depletion. You must rebuild, nourish, and sustain yourself. “Root vegetables and Mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Chaga; and Cordyceps are highly nutritious. Even mushrooms such as those we know as “button” or Portobello enrich the ‘immunity stew.’ ” Dry and Store foods with bright yellow, red, blue, purple, green color. Store Whole Grains and Rice. Hoard Honey- it lasts for years, and its medicinal value increases as it ages. Don’t forget plain-old salt. Its value is golden; not only for seasoning, but also for its medicinal use as a compress, wash, and soak.
You may suffer a personal disaster, such as a need to flee from your home or a wide-spread disaster such as a fire, flood, or wind damage. With your “get-away” HERB bag, you will feel confident that you can meet your family’s short-term needs.
If you are isolated at home by a prolonged power outage, local siege, or weather conditions; you can feel safer, knowing that you are prepared to “hole-in” for the long haul with the forethought of your Sequestered HERB Stockpile.
I would like to leave you with a recipe by Tommie Bass
The HERB Man from Cherokee, County Alabama 1908-1996
[Courtesy of Darrel Patton.]
Cough Syrup/Medicine Recipe
Half Teacup Mullein Leaves
Half Teacup Sweet Gum Bark
Half Teacup Slippery Elm Bark
Half Teacup Wild Cherry Bark
Half Teacup Wild Ginger Roots
Bring one gallon water to a boil- simmer everything for 25 minutes. Strain and add 2-4 pounds of honey or sugar.
The more you add, the stronger/thicker the syrup.
1 Tablespoon as needed for Adults
1 teaspoon as needed for Children.