New Series- Health and Wellness

If you follow this blog regularly, you are aware that we started a Simple Recipes series earlier this week.  I am trying another new series involving recipes that go beyond natural beauty products and address health and wellness concerns.  Let me know how you enjoy this content and I will keep it going if there is enough interest.

photo courtesy of https://stocksnap.io

First up- Spring is almost here and with it comes yard work, leading to sore muscles.  Ease these sore muscles by massaging them with a mix of 1 part rubbing alcohol mixed with 4 parts witch hazel.  Be gentle, but apply firm pressure as you massage.

Other uses for witch hazel?  The following originally appeared on my miscellaneous blog.

Witch hazel has nothing to do with witches, but is a popular, long used remedy for bruises, hemorrhoids, and muscle aches.  Witch hazel can be made at home using the leaves or twigs from the flexible witch hazel tree.  Boiling the leaves or twigs in water makes an infusion or decoction which can be used for numerous home remedies.

Witch hazel may be consumed to help with diarrhea, colds,or fevers.  It is said to possibly help with prevent or to treat cancer.  It can be applied topically for insect bites, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, bruises, minor skin irritations, or pain and swelling.  This brew is also used as an astringent used to tighten the pores of the skin.

To make your own infusion or decoctions, add a few teaspoons of witch hazel leaves or twigs to boiling water and let steep 20-30 minutes.