Please ponder for a moment what is causing stress in your life. What in your life is ‘stressful’ to you? And, please, consider for a moment that our bodies and our minds are simply not equipped to handle long-term, chronic stress without suffering serious consequences, big and small.

Some people – I wish I were one of them – respond to most situations calmly. They simply handle stress well, with little or no ill effects on their bodies or minds. For these people, stress is not all bad. In small doses and handled properly, stress can even help us accomplish tasks quickly and well.

Can alternative health products such as essential oils, herbal remedies, and Blessed Water/Homeopathic remedies really help us reset our thinking and handle stress more appropriately? I certainly do believe that they can! Some of those remedies are featured in this month’s newsletter. Let’s begin today, however, with a little bit of information about the effects of stress on us physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Why am I taking up time and space to point out to you the long-term effects of stress and to discuss the things that might be stressing each of us out? Because, as I said in the first paragraph, I am hoping you will ponder the stress in your life and take steps to minimize the effects of stress on your health and happiness.

Physical Consequences of Long-term Stress

Depression, anxiety, and even personality disorders.
Cardiovascular issues. These might include heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and stroke.
Obesity, and any one of a host of eating disorders.
Hormone issues, including fertility problems and sexual dysfunction.
A variety of issues with the skin, hair, or nails. Such things as psoriasis, eczema, and even permanent hair loss sometimes have their roots in long-term stress.
Gastrointestinal problems. Many people hold their stress in their stomachs or intestines. The result? GERD, gastritis of one form or another, ulcerative colitis, irritable colon, etc.
Heartburn or ulcers.
Flare-ups of asthma, arthritis, acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

The Heart and Stress

High cholesterol, diabetes, cigarette smoking, and caffeine intake are recognized as risk factors for heart disease. Nevertheless, in over half of new heart disease patients, none of these factors are present. In study after study, however, stresses of various kinds were shown to be the most important single factor in heart health.

It has been accepted as fact for some time that major stress, such as war, divorce, and earthquakes, increases the risk of heart attacks in victims. In 1977, the Journal of the American Medical Association reported that common emotions such as tension, frustration, and sadness trigger a drop in the blood supply to the heart. These drops can be sufficient to significantly increase the risk of a heart attack.

A report by the Secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare indicates that “job satisfaction” and “overall happiness” are the most important factors in determining the length of the recovery time following a heart attack. These factors even impact the amount of recovery that will be achieved. According to the Mayo Clinic, psychological stress is the strongest predictor of future cardiac problems such as cardiac arrest, heart attack, and death. I know, from experience, that emotional stress impacts my own heart issues very negatively. I have also learned how to minimize these reactions – even in the face of alarming amounts of psychological stress and emotional losses.

Studies show that women with heart issues live longer if they are involved in a stress management program. Essential oils have been that sort of program for me, over the years. Regular exercise, downtime with family, and reading, reading, reading also help me stay well and healthy—despite my long-ago heart issues.

Some Mental Symptoms of Stress

Worrying constantly.
Thoughts racing around continually in your mind, night and day.
Forgetfulness.
Disorganization.
Inability to focus on anything for very long.
Poor judgment. As a result, repeatedly making poor decisions.
Being negative or seeing only the downside of things. Pessimism.

Some Emotional Symptoms of Stress

Frequently becoming easily upset, frustrated, or agitated.
Mood swings.
Feeling overwhelmed.
Wondering if you are losing control of your world. As a result, wanting to be in control of every situation.
Finding it difficult to relax and/or quiet your mind.
Low self-esteem. Generally feeling bad about yourself.
Feeling that since you are not getting everything done, you are worthless or less than you should be.
Feeling lonely as you cut yourself off from others, trying to “get it all done.”
Some possible stressors

Some Possible Stressors

I will name just a few that I have observed or have been expressed to me by other people. Perhaps it would be of benefit to look at your own life and make your own list. Ask yourself, what events or situations trigger stressful feelings for you?

Interruptions and the Frantic Pace of Modern Life

The average person today has their train of thought interrupted many times every hour. Certainly, that is true of my life! Interruptions come from co-workers, clients, loved ones, e-mails, faxes, or phone calls, to name just a few. Each interruption causes the mind and the heart to send a plethora of messages back and forth to establish and then re-establish order and procedure.

Trying to Do Too Much in Too Little Time

Time-saving devices help, but only a little bit. I don’t know about you, but no matter how many time-saving devices I buy or employees I hire, I manage to fill any time saved right back up! It often feels impossible to ever get all of the things I want to do done! There is always more to learn and more things that I want to do!

Unrealistic Expectations

Whether one is expecting too much of oneself, one’s family, one’s employees, or one’s boss, this attitude sets a person up for major stress. Learning to see the good in people and being grateful to those around you for the things they do helps to moderate this attitude quite a lot. How to expect less from yourself? That is much harder. Finding what your personal walk in life is helps. Doing your best and coming to understand that your best is enough is sufficient. Cutting yourself slack for mistakes that you learned from also helps. At least, it should.

Regrets

This is the mind chatter that says things like “I should have. . . .” or “I should have said. . . .” or “I need to remember to do. . . .” or I wish I would have. . . .” or “I wish they would. . . .” Watch out for these energy draining head conversations that you hold with yourself. They keep the heart from developing faith or finding solutions. Sometimes we just retell ourselves stories where we are the hero, the good guy, and someone else seriously messed up or hurt us. This does no good and also impacts our emotional health.

Argument and Discord

Psychologist Janice Kiecolt-Glaser and immunologist Ronald Glaser of Ohio State University claim that when married couples discuss sensitive issues during testing sessions, heart rates increased, blood pressure rose, there was a marked increase in stress hormones, and a distinct drop-off in immunity. Scary. Is there a way to discuss these issues without making ourselves sick? Perhaps humor and patience would help.

Health Concerns

Here again, the news media and the constant litany about diseases and what pills and procedures we are likely to need if we get sick keep us all in a stew. Eliminating the TV from our lives over the last few years has made a profound difference to me. Of course, replacing the TV with the internet does not, realistically, count.

Taking responsibility for yourself, learning a few skills, and having a few basic solutions handy is the only way I know of to alleviate stress about health issues.

Issues of aging, being unable to take care of oneself or care for the needs of an aging or infirm spouse, or caring for a handicapped child can take a great toll on people’s health. I am finding that the emotional impact of aging is more of a challenge for me than I expected it to be. My focus? Not so much on the ‘care’ issues, but I am finding myself focusing too much on one of us, my husband or myself, finishing out our lives without each other as support and companionship!

Tension Around Balancing Career and Family

Professional women (and men) often feel a great deal of conflict and tension centered around how much time and energy should be spent in the workplace and how much should be reserved for home and family. The need for continuing one’s education and the time and money that education requires can be another area of conflict and stress.

The News Media

The satellite age has increased the number of gruesome things we hear about each day. It should be remembered that hearing about it does not mean there is a significant increase in the likelihood that we will fall victim to most of the things we hear about.

Gavin de Becker says a couple of interesting things in his book, The Gift of Fear. He says that, at the moment anyway, Americans enjoy the privilege of being so secure that they have the luxury of worrying about things that are not likely to happen. “Imagine a mother in Bosnia,” he points out, “trying to protect herself and her children. Has she got time to entertain the fears many Americans stress themselves over? I don’t think so.” This statement put a lot of things into perspective for me. Fear sells newspapers, but it does not promote happiness or good health.

Perception

Stress occurs when our perceptions of events don’t meet our expectations. Also, this is only a problem if we don’t manage our reaction to the disappointment in healthy ways. We tell ourselves over and over how terrible things were. Sometimes, we may even allow ourselves to perceive an event as inevitably ruining our future. We tell ourselves that things will never be right again or that we will “never get over” this experience. Usually, that is simply not true. Many people have led productive and happy lives after surviving things that most of us can only imagine. Energy work and essential oils have been a blessing to many in arriving at peace and productivity.

The fact is that our bodies react exactly the same way to stress, whether or not we have a good reason for being stressed. Whether your expectations were reasonable or not isn’t really relevant to stress levels. Perception rules in the creation of stress and in the effects that events will have on the body.

Liking Drama/Worrying

I hesitated to mention this one. I’m sure it doesn’t apply to any of us. Unfortunately, if it does apply to us, recognizing the pattern is difficult. There are those who really like to be involved in drama. Perhaps someone comes to mind. Does drama make them feel loved, important, or indispensable? Do they worry about someone as proof (to themselves) that they love them? Do they mistake worry for appropriate ways to love and support others? “I only worry about you because I love you!” is an often-heard phrase. Perhaps prayer would be a better solution than worry.

Years ago, someone told me that instead of fretting and worrying about my children, I should pray instead. They suggested that instead of saying, “I wonder where that child is?” or “I wonder what that child is doing?” I should, instead, say something like the following. “Dear Father, you know where my child is and what he needs. If there is something I can do… if he needs his mother at this moment, please let me know, and I will respond immediately and in any way that You see as best.” This advice changed my life!

Common Stressors

Work
Being unhappy in your job.
Having to give speeches and presentations.
Having a heavy workload or too much responsibility.
Working long hours.
Being insecure about your job or possibilities for advancement.
Life in General.
The death of a loved one.
Divorce.
Loss of a job.
Getting married – even if it is a good thing and you want to.
Moving to a new home.
Chronic illness or the after-effects of an illness.
Taking care of an elderly or sick family member.
Traumatic events in your own life or in the lives of people that you know and love.
Did reading that list cause you stress? You may consider looking up essential oils specific to the emotions.

Is it Time for Change?

It is impossible to change the world around us, removing every little bit of stress. The alternative is obvious. We must learn to take responsibility for our own reactions to the world around us. We must deliberately choose our own emotions.

I find that alternative therapies and remedies provide a great deal of assistance here. Herbal remedies help us remedy nutritional deficiencies that keep our nerves on edge and make us tired and irritable. Essential oils are especially helpful! Homeopathic remedies reach deeply into our energy and even adjust our misperceptions. Below is a discussion of some of the things I have come across over the years.

See the full list of topics.

In This Issue

New Vanilla Bar Soap
Vitamin B-100 Supplement
Liquid Chlorophyll Supplement
May Essential Oils
Featured Herbs
Featured Blessed Waters
Featured Minerals
Featured Blend – ^LeLetting Go
Featured Single – Palo Santo
Hemp Seed Carrier Oil
Featured Kits

Vanilla Bar Soap

Vanilla is one of the most calming and uplifting of scents. Vanilla has such a wonderful aroma that even if it had no therapeutic properties, I would still use it as an essential oil, in cooking, and I certainly intend to try this immediately as a soap now that an employee has come up with it!

The aroma of vanilla helps us feel confident that the future will be full of promise and hope. Vanilla can give us hope, perspective, and confidence in our ability to listen to inspiration. Vanilla helps build a stronger immune system, better memory, improved vision and hearing, more stable emotions, improved mental acuity, and overall repair of body systems, organs, and tissues.

Do the aroma and healing properties of an essential oil carry over when included in a soap recipe? I believe so. At least, I love the aromatic soaps that have been created at Butterfly Express.

B-100 Supplement

There are some basic facts that should be mentioned concerning the B vitamin family. The first thing is that B vitamins are water-soluble. This means that very little of what you need is stored in the body from day to day. You must ingest, and hopefully absorb, what you need daily. The second thing is that B vitamins are very easily destroyed by heat and/or processing. The milling of a grain can seriously deplete the B vitamin content. The third and most important thing is that B vitamins are teamwork vitamins. They really only work well when sufficient amounts of all of them are available in the body at the same time. This could lead you to believe that supplementation is the only way to go, but finding a well-balanced B complex supplement is difficult at best. Many people find that B vitamin supplements make them nauseous, give them gas, or just don’t achieve the needed results.

Roger Williams, PH.C., D.S., a University of Texas chemist and pioneer vitamin researcher, places special emphasis on the teamwork principle. “Each B vitamin fits into different parts of the metabolic machinery of every living cell. And like cogs on a wheel, each has a specialized function,” he claims. When the body has too much of any one of the B vitamins, it will secrete the excess. Unfortunately, the team leaves the field together. B vitamins that are in short supply become even more scarce. This is a phenomenon of supplementation and doesn’t occur with the ingestion of the B’s from food sources.

Sufficient B complex intake improves nearly every bodily function and organ, and a deficiency can cause a myriad of problems. The different B vitamins are found in a widely varying list of foods, with the only common denominator from one B vitamin to the next being brewer’s yeast and, possibly, wheat germ. However, since B vitamins are so easily destroyed by processing, both foods and supplements are only as good as the handling during processing allows them to be. You need to eat a wide variety of foods in as near a whole and natural form as possible if you are to avoid a B vitamin deficiency.

These B-100 Caps provide a full complement of B-Vitamins plus Choline and Inositol. After a great deal of research, Butterfly Express chose these capsules as the best supplement we could find on the market. Please, continue to “eat the rainbow” (as many different colors of fruits and vegetables) as you can every day. These capsules are not meant to be a substitute for healthy, conscientious eating habits.

Liquid Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is considered to be the ‘blood’ of healthy plants and to have benefits to human blood when taken as a supplement.

I, personally, love my liquid chlorophyll and take some daily! I count on it to support my spleen in the critical functions of red blood cell production and recycling, as discussed above. It has been claimed that I have the energy of 10 women. I attribute a great deal of my energy levels to the Chlorophyll supplement carried by Butterfly Express, LLC.

Suggested foods for strengthening and regulating the spleen always include the importance of “eating our greens.”
While I, personally, love green salads and almost all vegetables, I still find that consistency in remembering to take my chlorophyll is helpful to me in many ways.

Featured Herbs for Stress

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is the more common name for the wonderful and amazing Melissa officinalis plant, which is a very pleasant and mild member of the mint family. As an essential oil, Lemon Balm is referred to as Melissa and is one of the strongest antimicrobial oils possible. The question is whether these properties exist only in the oil or in the herb as well, once it has been dried for medicinal use?

Lemon Balm, as an herb, has been used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, improve memory and cognition, and ease the pain and discomfort of indigestion.

Lemon Balm has also been used for ADHD, Graves’ disease, rapid heartbeat due to nervousness, high blood pressure, skin sores, and insect bites. Several people have reported that lemon balm was useful in lifting their long-standing depression.

Ginseng

Ginseng is probably the most used and most widely studied herb of all. The information can be confusing and a little misleading until you have sufficient knowledge to sort the various species of Ginseng. In the herb book I wrote, Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies, I have provided quite a bit of information gleaned from an in-depth study of many sources. Ginseng is processed in two forms: white and red. White is the dried root with the outer skin peeled off, and is mostly made from the quinquefolius type of Panax ginseng.

In Chinese medical literature and lore, Ginseng is said to restore yang qualities and is often used in male tonics and medicines, and to restore female functions that are the result of too much yin. Translated (roughly) to Western thought, this means to balance the male and female hormones. Ginseng is very effective in women whose estrogen levels are too high, putting them at risk for certain cancers, and more likely to suffer ill effects at menopause. Emotionally, following eastern medical philosophy, Ginseng balances the passive/aggressive, nurturing/providing (Fire and Water) aspects of our personalities.

The most noted effects of Ginseng are in the slowing of the onset of both mental and physical fatigue when the body or mind is under great stress. These effects have been demonstrated in both animal studies and double-blind, clinical trials in humans. In studies conducted in the early 1940’s, the time to physical fatigue during endurance tests was shown to be lengthened by the ingestion of Ginseng. Mental acuity and the ability to work longer with fewer mistakes were documented among radio operators. The analogy that comes to mind is that stimulant herbs are like stepping on the gas, while Ginseng is more like giving the engine a tune-up.

Other noted, and well-studied, uses for Ginseng are: in the treatment of diabetes, as a reproductive system tonic and healer, for its immunostimulant properties, in the strengthening of liver function, protecting and strengthening the cardiovascular system, in the protection of cells during radiation, and the rebuilding of damaged cells when the radiation treatment is finished. Ginseng has been shown in clinical trials to have anti-cancer properties.

Eleutherococcus senticosus

A species of plant, Eleutherococcus senticosus, often referred to as Eleuthero or Siberian Ginseng, is a much-used substitute for the Panax varieties discussed above. Not being of the Panax genus at all, Siberian Ginseng has a very different chemical composition; it contains no ginsenosides at all. However, it is a great alternative and adaptogenic herb in its own right. In most respects, it is just as effective as the more expensive (and harder to obtain in good quality) Panax varieties. Siberian Ginseng has been shown to produce similar effects on mental and physical stamina. It is as effective in the reduction of sugar levels and lipids in the bloodstream, in toning the adrenal glands, and in regulating blood pressure as Panax ginseng and the other closely related varieties.

I find it very interesting that reliable clinical trials have shown conclusively that two such different plants could have such similar effects on the human body. It is a wonderful illustration of the fact that there is more than one way to accomplish cures in the body. This leads me, once more, to the conclusion that one of the reasons, perhaps the biggest reason, herbs work is because they provide the body with badly needed basic nutrition. How much “chemical constituency” and “active ingredients” account for herbal cures, and how much should be attributed to basic nutrition?

One notable difference in these two herbs: Panax varieties have repeatedly been shown to be most effective when the body and mind are already showing adverse signs of reaction to stress. Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng), on the other hand, when given to healthy human subjects in clinical trials who were then subjected to adverse physical and mental conditions, was shown to increase their ability to withstand the additional stress.

Most of us have some body systems that are already showing signs of debilitation from stress, while other systems are still in good working order for the moment.

Chamomile

Chamomile is so well known for its use with infants and children for colic, upset tummy, and nightmares that its many other wonderful properties are too often overlooked. I particularly love chamomile and catnip for children mixed together. Butterfly Express provides these two herbs mixed together with glycerin as the tincture base (called the menstrum, if you want to get technical). These two herbs ‘pull’ very well in either glycerin or distilled water, but the glycerine provides a sweetness that children respond well to. You will be absolutely amazed at how well and how quickly this glycerite formula relieves tummy aches and teething difficulties in small children!

The tonic and sedative properties of Chamomile make it an excellent choice for ulcers and indigestion. Chamomile regulates peristalsis in babies, children, and adults, making it an excellent remedy for either diarrhea or constipation.

Chamomile, though so very mild in many ways, is strongly antiseptic and is strongly antibacterial—effective against candida as it manifests in the mouth as thrush. Other uses for Chamomile include fever reduction, colds, flu, sore throats, coughs, and digestive infections such as gastroenteritis. The antiseptic action of Chamomile is particularly effective with an inflamed bladder and cystitis.

Chamomile helps to relieve nausea during pregnancy, can relax uterine spasms, relieve painful cramping during menstrual flow, treat the absence of menstrual periods, relieve menstrual headaches, and bring relief from mastitis. Chamomile is also a wonderful herb to relieve menopausal symptoms and is a natural antihistamine that can be used for asthma and hay fever, and externally for eczema.

Chamomile is effective as a rinse for blond hair in the prevention of graying.

Maca Root

Maca Root contains over 20 amino acids, including 8 essential amino acids, 20 fatty acids, Vitamins B1, B2, C, and E, as well as calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sulfur, sodium, and iron, and is a rich source of phytonutrients. What a powerhouse of an herb!

Maca is considered to be a potent adaptogen. This means that it is able to aid the body in naturally adapting to the stresses of life. Maca is said to make people feel more “alive,” energetic, and produce an overall sense of well-being. These effects are thought to be due to Maca’s ability to restore proper hormone balance and raise the levels of endorphins.

Maca Root is a potent hormone-balancing herb. It is said to increase fertility in both men and women.

Hibiscus

This is a relatively new addition to the Butterfly line of healthy herbal products. I am sometimes leery of remedies that claim to do just about everything imaginable. However, hibiscus flowers, as a tea or tincture, are quickly proving themselves to me.

Hibiscus flowers contain some powerful antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and anthocyanin. Antioxidants protect against free radicals that so often cause connective tissue damage. How important is this protection? Connective tissue is found between the layers of tissues everywhere in the body, including the brain and spinal cord!

This flower is also high in Vitamin K, B Vitamins, Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron, and some amino acids, as well as some nice plant proteins. Herbs containing plant proteins are not common and are especially beneficial to those on vegetarian diets or for those who have difficulty digesting proteins.

Hibiscus, consumed daily, can reduce cholesterol (the bad for you kind—LDL) levels while increasing HDL (the good stuff made naturally by the body). This makes it useful in reducing high blood pressure and protecting the liver from developing Fatty Liver Disease, one of the real nasty diseases. Fat-burning properties in Hibiscus also aid in weight loss regimens when, of course, accompanied by sensible exercise programs and a diet of healthy, sensible foods.

One of my favorite things about Hibiscus flowers is that studies have shown that they help prevent calcium crystals in the kidneys from becoming kidney stones. As a younger woman, kidney stones were a plague for me more than once. I haven’t suffered from kidney stones for more than 30 years now!

Astragalus

Astragalus was one of the best ‘finds’ in my years as an herbalist and alternative health person. The list of systems affected, Immune System, Urinary System, Endocrine glands (especially the adrenals and thyroid), and the Cardiovascular System, is a very nearly comprehensive list of my struggles in years long gone by!

Astragalus contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and may protect the body against such things as colds, upper respiratory infections, high blood pressure, liver disease, and diabetes.

In the United States, researchers are looking at Astragalus as a possible treatment for people whose immune systems have been weakened by chemotherapy and radiation. Astragalus may also act as a mild diuretic.

Astragalus builds the immune system and is one of the best-researched immune system stimulants now available. It works like Echinacea, in that both herbs increase the number and activity of immune cells.

Fo Ti

The folk legends surrounding Fo Ti in the ancient Chinese tradition are positively incredible—also pretty much unbelievable.

In more modern times, based on a limited handful of studies, Fo Ti has been shown to contain a specific alkaloid that has tonic and rejuvenating properties on the nerves, brain, and endocrine glands. Fo Ti seems to stimulate a portion of the adrenal gland that enhances energy, vigor, and overall good health.

Fo Ti is said to support and tone the kidneys, fortify bone health due to its action on the endocrine system and kidneys, thereby improving calcium uptake. This herb is sometimes recommended and used by people involved in sports. In athletic circles, Fo Ti is reputed to enhance energy and vigor and to reduce the time necessary for recovery after intense effort and stress.

Featured Blessed Waters for Stress

This collection of remedies focuses on the debilitating effects of stress on the nervous system, with the accompanying symptoms brought on by anxiety and nervous tension of just about any description.

The best way to understand and choose a combination remedy that will be of benefit to you is to understand the ‘symptom picture’ of each individual remedy in that particular combination.

The Butterfly Express and Butterfly Expressions websites provide a very limited (brief) but very accurate description of the symptoms of each ingredient in each remedy. For an in-depth description of each ingredient, please consult a comprehensive Materia Medica. (A book containing more comprehensive descriptions of Homeopathic (Blessed Water) remedies.) Web searches often produce similar descriptions and information.

I will give only a generalized description of the overall focus of each of these combination remedies as a whole at this time.

Tension #1

This remedy was put together as a remedy to be used to relieve the emotional and physical symptoms brought on by stress. Particular symptoms listed as being addressed by this remedy include pressure headaches at the back of the neck, anxiety, and post-partum depression.

The German chamomile in this formula is certainly noted for alleviating these conditions. The remedy also contains the mineral remedy, Kali phospohoricum. Like all remedies containing phosphorus, this is a remedy for mental and physical exhaustion caused by overwork, overexcitement, or worry. There is a great sensitivity to light, noise, and sleeplessness because the mind is overactive with worry. Humulus lupulus (Hops, in plain English) targets such symptoms as mental confusion, frequent startling from deep sleep, dull headache with dizziness, and violent pulsating of temporal and carotid arteries.

Tension #2

Because this is a combination remedy, it is difficult to point out any specific area of the body as the crux of the pain. Some of the remedies in this combination focus on nerve pain that manifests in the muscles. Others focus on debility and exhaustion, brought on by overwork, sorry, an emotional shock of some kind, or just the insidious effects of advancing age.

Each remedy has its own particular focus mentally and emotionally. These symptoms range from over-sensitivity to noise, sleeplessness, an overactive mind, or strange fantasies, and irritability.

Tension #3

This is a very unique and very synergistic combination whose focus is on tension that manifests predominantly in muscle structures all over the body! Each remedy, while affecting the entire system both mentally and physically, has a special affinity for a specific muscle group and the emotional pattern of the grouping. Thus, there is something in this remedy for symptoms from disturbed heart rhythms, high blood pressure, diarrhea, sweating, trembling, cold hands and feet, headache, and clumsiness.

Mental symptoms include such divergent things as restlessness, anxiety, being suspicious of people and situations, with a particular focus on family. As might be expected, symptoms include shortness of breath, feelings of pressure in the chest over the lungs as well as the heart, heart palpitations, and, interestingly, the odd characteristics of extreme emotional sensitivity to music and a desire to get away from responsibilities by traveling.

Anxiety #1

This combination remedy is made up of only three ingredients. Two of these remedies are known polycrests—meaning they could be of use to a great many people for a great many uses at some time in their lives. These same two remedies are especially indicated for acute, more intense, and more serious situations.

One of these remedies, Aconitum napellus, is included in my personal first aid kit as a remedy I want available should one of my children or husband involve themselves in yet another fairly serious accident of some sort. The other remedy, Hypericum perforatum (commonly known as St. John’s Wort), has been used in both Blessed Water/Homeopathic form and as an herb all over the world for many, many years for a wide variety of nervous disorders.

With this remedy, symptoms will seem to be exaggerated and extreme. Intense pain will probably be part of the symptom picture. Many of the symptoms are, naturally, centered in the chest, stomach, neck, and head.

Anxiety #2

There are only two remedies included in this remedy. They are very different from one another, especially in their emotional patterns. Both, however, have symptoms in the heart and with circulation. I am going to include a brief description of each of these common polychrest remedies. Please, if you see yourself in either of them, study that remedy further and consider utilizing it as a single remedy in a higher potency remedy.

SECALE CORNUTUM Secale is a remedy for restlessness, anxiety, extreme debility and prostration, stinging neuralgic pains which burn like fire, numbness, and twitching and spasms of muscles. Contraction and then dilation of blood vessels with palpitations and erratic pulse may develop, making the person feel sad, suspicious, and afraid. Symptoms are worse from heat but better for cold applications or open air.

TUBERCULINUM BOVINUM Keynotes are deep feelings of being unfulfilled, with a desire to travel or take a new job. We saw this pattern with my father just before he was diagnosed with tuberculosis. Did he have tuberculosis? I am not sure, as we used this remedy, herbal concoction, and footzone therapy, and the symptoms disappeared and stayed gone for the rest of his long life!

There will be a sensation of suffocation and depression with malicious behavior. Things get worse in a small room and in the evening. Physical symptoms include heaviness and pressure over the heart with palpitations on taking a deep breath. I find this symptom interesting, as my father was first diagnosed with a heart issue before being diagnosed with tuberculosis.

It was later determined that he had “the heart of a 19-year old” when his symptoms were evaluated by a visiting physician from an Asian country. This new diagnosis was just a few hours before his scheduled open-heart surgery!

I wondered if the ‘new diagnosis’ was, possibly, based on this young doctor’s understanding of homeopathic medicine, in which he was well-versed. Eventually, at this doctor’s insistence, tests were run for parasites, and one was found. It was a parasite indigenous to the Philippines, where my father had spent a very short amount of time during World War II, when a very young man!

Nerve #1

There are a total of six remedies in this combination. If your symptoms are at all severe, debilitating, or severe, please study each remedy in depth and utilize the one that best fits you in a deeper potency according to homeopathic principles.

The ingredients in this remedy are Chamomilla vulgaris, Cuprum sulphuricum, Kali telluricum, Natrum sulpuricum, Ranunculus sceleratus, and Scutellaria laterifolia. These remedies are very distinct from one another.

For example, Chamomilla, a mild but extremely important polycrest, is keynoted by symptoms for young children and for a person who lives in the past, dwelling on past irritations and slights by other people. On the other hand, Scutellaria is a noted nervine and sedative with keynotes for overwork and lack of rest due to malfunction of the heart’s electrical system. This remedy, Scutellaria, is for much more serious conditions than those typical of Chamomilla. Another ingredient, Natrum sulpuricum, is a remedy for head injuries and congestion, etc., of the blood in the brain and for damage to delicate nerves there.

I realize that I am repeating myself, but please, if your symptoms are severe or debilitating, please study basic homeopathic principles and choose the ‘precise’ remedy for your situation.

Nerve #2

Once again, as with Nerve #1, we have included in the ingredients that mild but incredible Chamomilla vulgaris mentioned above, teamed up with serious remedies for head injuries and for regulating heart and circulatory issues.

The symptom picture of the majority of the remedies in this combination includes being made better by rest. However, one ingredient, Sterfulia acuminata (kola nut), is noted for giving a person, I quote a Materia Medica, “the power to endure prolonged physical exertions without taking food and without feeling fatigued” (Murphy’s Materia Medica)

Nerve #3

The following is a small amount of information on each of the INGREDIENTS of this combination.

HYOSCYAMUS NIGER (henbane) Hyoscyamus is a deep-acting remedy for brain and nervous system disorders of some desperation. The symptom picture includes such things as mania of a particularly obscene and quarrelsome nature, lack of modesty with the improper display of the body, extreme jealousy and suspicion, nervous agitation, twitching of tendons, tremulous weakness or muscles, and hallucinations and delusions.

MORBILLINUM (measles nosode) The remedy symptom picture includes nervous fretfulness in children and irritable moodiness in adults with constant fault-finding. Note that this is the measles nosode. A rash and a slight temperature would also be seen for this remedy to be called for.

VENUS MERCANARIA (American scallop) Venus mercanaria is above all a remedy for things going on in the head. Symptoms include mental confusion, boredom, and incoordination of the mind and the body (hands) when trying to write.

Featured Minerals for Stress

Selenium

Selenium works with Vitamin E to promote normal body growth and tissue elasticity. It is a potent antioxidant that naturally reduces the storage of toxic metals by the body. It is crucial for the heart muscle.

Although deficiency is relatively rare, Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from damaging free radicals, making it an important mineral. Selenium helps in the prevention of premature aging as it helps to preserve the elasticity of tissues. It is crucial for the heart muscle. It promotes a healthy brain, thyroid, and cell replacements. It is crucial for the heart muscle.

Symptoms of Deficiency: Fatigue. Age spots, Cataracts, Stroke, lowered thyroid function, Reproductive disorders, lowered immune function, Mental impairment, Liver cirrhosis, and Arthritis.

Copper

Copper is a vital antioxidant. It protects the fatty acids found in cell membranes, especially in red blood cells. Copper is an essential part of enzyme & RNA formation and of making healthy bone. It improves vitamin absorption, improves bone health, supports a healthy immune system, and may mitigate pain perception. Copper supports healthy zinc and molybdenum levels in the body. Long-term use of oral contraceptives can create a copper deficiency.

Symptoms of Deficiency: Arthritis, Depression, Nervous ticks, Hair loss-brittle hair-graying hair, Impaired Thyroid function, Liver distress & cirrhosis, Diarrhea, Parasites, Varicose veins, Allergies

Chromium

Chromium is used by the liver when making fatty acids from stored glucose. The body then uses the fatty acids when exercising. It is a body regulator, supporting insulin and blood sugar levels within normal range, and it is important for good heart and vascular health. Chromium is an important mineral in the metabolism of carbohydrates, the activation of enzymes, and the synthesis of fatty acids in the liver.

Symptoms of Deficiency: Mood swings, Hyperactivity, Depression, Bi-polar and manic states, Glucose-insulin and blood sugar issues, Diabetes, Weight loss or obesity, High cholesterol, Infertility, Nerve damage, Fatigue, Irritability, Learning Disabilities, Confusion, Impaired coordination.

^LeLetting Go Essential Oil Blend

I cannot possibly tell you, adequately, how much my husband and I love this blend! ^LeLetting Go is also a favorite blend of many people. By letting go of negative emotions, we can create feelings of tolerance and compassion towards the faults and foibles of the human race, including ourselves. Regular use of this essential oil blend can help us develop feelings of trust, safety, and security. Some of life’s experiences have created a certain amount of distrust in me over the years. I rely on this oil to help me find compassion and love for those around me.

^LeLetting Go is literally what the name implies, an oil to aid us in the “letting go” of negative emotions that we are holding on to in the physical tissues of our bodies. You can use ^LeLetting Go to aid in the release of anger, frustration, resentment, despair, grief, insecurity, or any other emotion that is not serving you well. This blend is appropriate when your forward progress in emotional or physical healing seems to be halted. This oil is beneficial when used for the rebellious spirit sometimes seen in teens and others from time to time.

Letting go of the emotional baggage that we don’t need can have an energizing effect on the colon, kidneys, liver, and gallbladder in particular. Holding on to negativity from the past can be the root cause of constipation. Fear can cause the kidneys and the bladder to function below optimum levels. Clogging in the liver and gallbladder creates a multitude of physical problems.

Palo Santo Essential Oil

A Google search informs me that ‘Palo Santo’ is Spanish for “Holy wood” or “Sacred wood”. Traditionally, in the South American countries where it is native, it is linked to some ancient and even some more modern healing rituals.

Unfortunately, a tree must be at least 2 years old for the oil to be in sufficient concentration in the trunk to be harvested. Not yet considered an ‘endangered species’, various South American governments have mandated that only branches that have fallen naturally to the ground may be used to extract the essential oil. Even the harvesting of dead branches can be done only with a government-issued permit.

Palo Santo is a member of the same botanical family as Frankincense, but the essential oil is made from the heartwood of the tree and not from a resin. This, of course, affects the healing properties of the oil in several dramatic ways.

The essential oil—linked as it is to death, resurrection, and metamorphosis—lends itself well to meditation and study, and contemplation of spiritual matters. As with all essential oils distilled from the wood—in this case, the heartwood—Palo Santo lends us strength and firmness in our core beliefs.

Essential oils derived from woods also create for us a safe shelter in which to heal and from which we may venture forth to achieve. Palo Santo is used to relieve stress, panic, anxiety, and to generally lift and change mood. The aroma can help us calm down and let go of negative emotions such as anger or fear.

Palo Santo is used to treat arthritis, neck pain, and muscle aches and spasms. This essential oil is also an effective insect repellent, but it is a bit expensive for that application.

Hemp Seed Carrier Oil

Hemp seed oil is the carrier oil with the highest percentage of essential fatty acids (EFA). It comprises between 75% and 80% of total EFAs. Likewise, hemp seed carrier oil is also high in omega-3s. These components in carrier oils, which make them emollient and lubricating, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), are also very high in hemp seed oil.

Hemp seed oil is one of nature’s richest sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids. These emollients account for the lubricating and skin-healing properties of carrier oils by keeping the skin soft and supple while increasing the moisture retention of the skin. This combination of essential fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids makes hemp seed oil helpful for conditions such as dry, rough skin, minor skin abrasions, acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Hemp seed oil is high in vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant. It helps to trap and remove excess free radicals that cause damage and lead to premature aging of the skin.

Hemp Seed Carrier Oil comes from the Cannabis sativa (Industrial Hemp) plant seed. Tests have shown that there are little to no cannabinoids present in the seeds of the hemp plant. Hemp Seed Oil is regulated in its production and does not contain either CBD or THC.

2- and 3-Oil Kits

These kits are made up of synergistically matching and/or often used together essential oils. They are packaged in organza bags and make very nice gifts for almost any occasion and for almost any need for healing situations. As near as I can tell (count) there are 25 different combinations of these pretty and useful little gift bags.

Some examples of such gift bags include ^LeSanctuary/^LeTranquility, ^LeBabyMe/^LeHeartSong, ^LeBreezey/^LeEndoRelief, ^LeDeliverance/^LeMariah, ^LeDeeper/^LePaine/^LeWarmDown, ^LeEmerge/^LeInsideOut/^LeReflections, ^LeDeliverance/^LeEndoRelief/^LeLife Force, ^LeCrystal Clear/^LeFocus/^LeIQ, to name just a few.

Packaged in the organza bags, these gift bags, both 2-oil kits and 3-oil kits, are offered at a discount off the price of the oils purchased separately.

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