As fall rolls in and the air turns crisp, it also brings along an unwelcome guest—“sickness season.” Cooler weather means respiratory viruses and other illnesses tend to pop up more often. Kids in school are exposed to all kinds of germs (and generously share them at home). Plus, when it’s chilly outside, we spend more time indoors and closer to others, making it easier for germs to spread. To make matters worse, cooler temps and drier air create the perfect environment for viruses to stick around longer, both in the air and on surfaces.

The best way to stay healthy is to give your immune system a boost before sickness season kicks into high gear. That way, you can avoid, or at least lessen, the bugs that come your way. But life happens, and sometimes those best-laid plans don’t pan out. That’s where the products in this blog come in. They can help you stay well, bounce back faster, and make those symptoms a whole lot easier to handle.

See the full list of topics.

In This Issue

NEW Snifflez Tea
NEW Ionic Multi Mineral
Vitamin D-3 Supplement
Odorless Garlic Supplement
September Essential Oils
Featured Herbs
Featured Blessed Waters
Liquid Minerals
Blend – ^LeMariah
Single – Blue Cypress
Mullein Carrier Oil
Junior 3-Oil Kit

Snifflez Herbal Tea Pack

When the sniffles strike or your immune system needs an extra boost, Snifflez Tea offers comfort in a cup. This smooth herbal blend combines the refreshing coolness of peppermint and spearmint with the warming, restorative notes of ginger, rosemary, and thyme.

Each ingredient is chosen for its unique ability to support respiratory comfort and immune strength—peppermint and spearmint open airways, ease headaches, calm the stomach, and provide antioxidant support, while rosemary stimulates circulation, soothes coughs, and fights bacteria and viruses. Ginger reduces inflammation in nasal passages, eases sore throats, and calms digestive upset, while thyme works as an expectorant, clearing congestion and delivering a wealth of minerals. Yarrow helps dry and clear mucus, supports the immune system, and eases stomach upset. Echinacea enhances immune response, reduces the severity of illness, and soothes sore throats and muscle aches. Eucalyptus, a powerful decongestant and expectorant, helps loosen mucus, clear breathing passages, and fight infection, while elderberries pack a potent dose of vitamins, antioxidants, and antiviral compounds to strengthen the immune system and may shorten the duration of colds and flu.

Whether enjoyed hot for a cozy, comforting experience or iced for a refreshing boost, Snifflez Tea nourishes the body, supports recovery, and promotes overall wellness. To prepare, bring water to a boil, steep 1–2 teaspoons of loose tea in a tea ball or filter for 3–5 minutes, remove the leaves to avoid bitterness, and sweeten with honey if desired for extra soothing benefits. Not intended for use during pregnancy.

Ionic Multi Mineral

Ionic Multi Mineral is a highly absorbable blend of essential trace minerals, carefully crafted for optimal support of the entire body. Made from fossilized kelp and enhanced with additional minerals, this formula provides a rich variety of nutrients in their natural ionic form—making them easy for the body to recognize and use.

This mild-tasting, water-soluble supplement contains at least 14 vital minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, iron, zinc, iodine, sulfur, cobalt, copper, manganese, and selenium. Because it’s sourced in its pure, unaltered state, mineral levels may vary slightly—just as nature intended.

Vitamin D-3 Supplement

Vitamin D is essential for strong bones. This is because Vitamin D is necessary in order for the body to utilize calcium from dietary sources. Low blood levels of Vitamin D contribute to such things as increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment in elderly people, severe asthma in children, and as well as increased risk of developing various cancers.  Of course, lack of Vitamin D can be a contributing factor to nearly everything involved with the bones anywhere in the body.

Vitamin D is sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin”. The body produces Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Getting enough Vitamin D from the sun can be challenging for individuals who work inside or spend most of their time inside.  During the fall and winter, it can be hard to get enough Vitamin D from the sun simply because of shorter days and colder temperatures.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy immune function.  It modulates the immune response and has antiviral properties. Vitamin D also modulates and helps to regulate inflammation. Vitamin D is said to act more like a hormone in the body.  Studies have also linked Vitamin D deficiency to autoimmune cases, where inflammation in the body causes the immune system to inappropriately attack body tissues.

Vitamin D is also found, naturally, in a limited number of foods. Some fish contain Vitamin D. Egg yolks are also a natural source of Vitamin D. If you shun the sun, or just don’t have time to play there, you may be experiencing a Vitamin D deficiency. Unfortunately, as people age, their kidneys may be less able to convert Vitamin D to its active form. This makes taking care of one’s kidneys very important, indeed.

Some studies show that Vitamin D may help eliminate the effects of depression. There is much conflict with this, but for me personally, I feel it has helped. If you are someone who feels healthier, happier, and more vibrant in the summer, considering Vitamin D supplementation may be of benefit.

Odorless Garlic

Research from 2016 suggests that extracts of garlic can boost your immune system.  Studies consistently found that people who consumed garlic on a regular basis or took good-quality garlic supplements for 3 months during the cold and flu season experienced less severe symptoms and fewer days missed from school or work.  Why?  Other research suggests that the compounds in garlic may have potent antiviral properties.  In addition to giving a boost to the immune system, garlic may help prevent viruses from entering host cells at all and/or from replicating within the cells should they achieve entry!

Garlic is a good source of several nutrients, such as manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, selenium, and beneficial fiber.  Garlic has also been shown to contain trace amounts of various other nutrients.

Featured Herbs for Respiratory Health & Immunity

Echinacea Plus

Echinacea Plus was formulated to be taken as a daily supplement for yourself and your family to nourish and boost immune function. Studies show that anxiety and stress weaken the immune response in as little as 30 minutes, as the body’s stress response gobbles up nutrients!

This formulation contains 2 varieties of Echinacea as well as Oregon Grape.  These three herbs all have compounds that have antimicrobial (viral, bacterial, and antiviral) properties.   Oregon Grape contains berberine. Plants containing berberine always show a broad spectrum of antibiotic activity. The action of berberine is stronger than that of modern antibiotics, but berberine produces no negative side effects. Effectiveness against strep and staph is a hallmark of berberine-containing plants and usually requires only low, but consistent, doses for effectiveness.

Lavender and chamomile are in this formula to calm and soothe when a person is experiencing sickness or sleeplessness. This formula is excellent for helping the body cope with stress.

IB

First, let’s take a look at the ingredients of this powerful immune-strengthening formula. Echinacea, Marshmallow, Elecampane, Dong Quai, Mullein, Rehmannia, and Thyme.  Each of these herbs is worthy of several paragraphs of description of their immune-stimulating properties all by themselves!

Building the immune system can be a slow process. IB should be taken, faithfully, in the summer and fall to have time for improvement before the coming winter cold and flu season hits. Dosage depends on age: Infants 1/4 teaspoon, older children 1/2 teaspoon, and adults 1/2 to 1 teaspoon twice daily. For faster results, take as much as possible, right up to the point of creating diarrhea.

This formula is usually made as a glycerite so that the quantity taken is not an issue, even for small children.

MULC

A look at the ingredients of this formula will tell you that it is both an active ‘critter’ fighter (anti-everything microbial) and a formula for soothing and rebuilding the tissues of the respiratory tract and supporting the kidneys through the die-off of the infectious agents.   Mullein and Marshmallow are soothing and emollient and do a very good job of rebuilding any tissues that the illness might have damaged.  Plantain is one of the most effective herbs I have ever found for rebuilding tissues, and not just after a burn, as we once used it for!

MULC is a particular favorite of mine, and I still remember the study and experimentation that went into its creation years ago!

SPRING

My husband came home one day carrying an armful of these two plants.  He wanted to know why he felt that these two plants, combined, would be very effective against an unusual strain of bacterial flu that was causing some people a great deal of long-lasting lung issues.  I did a little bit of ‘research’ but could find very little information about the healing properties of either of them.  It has proven effective over the years for respiratory illnesses.  (I have seen my husband’s instincts—or ability to listen to the whisperings of Heaven—do this many times over the years.) 

Of course, being who and what I am, I continued to research these plants for several years.  Here is a brief summary of what I learned.

Cattail has antiseptic, astringent, coagulant, and pain-relieving properties.  In other words, it may kill invading organisms, help dry up the lungs, control bleeding if there is any, and relieve some of the pain.  In addition, it is also useful to reduce fever and increase urine flow. 

Gumweed has been an important medicinal plant since pre-colonial times.  I wonder how I missed using it.  It grows in every uncultivated nook and corner of our farm!  Taken internally, it is said to relieve coughs and respiratory congestion.  Gumweed also has expectorant and antispasmodic qualities.  One herbal author indicated that Gumweed is used in modern medications for treating asthma and bronchitis.

Peppermint

It is simply impossible to list all of the healing benefits of peppermint without taking up pages and pages!   Peppermint has a long history as a treatment for coughs, colds, respiratory/lung issues, and for reducing fevers. A goodly portion of peppermint’s effectiveness is because it acts as a general stimulant to circulation, to physical tissues, and to feelings of well-being and optimism about the body’s ability to heal.

In addition, Peppermint is, and has always been, particularly known for its beneficial effects on digestion.     

Like many stimulants that are also analgesic, peppermint is relaxing in small quantities but can be overly stimulating in large quantities.  Peppermint leaves are very sensitive to heat, as well!  When using peppermint leaves to make a cup of tea, the leaves should never be boiled or even placed in boiling water.  The most potent Peppermint tea that I have ever made was made with fresh leaves and lukewarm water.  It had very little color, lots of aroma, and kept the poor man (my husband) who drank it up nearly all night instead of relaxing him into slumber.  Obviously, the volatile essential oils were still intact, and we had never managed that with a cup of tea before.

Usnea

Usnea has been one of my favorite herbs ever since I first became acquainted with it!  However, I must tell you that Usnea is a bit difficult to wildcraft for oneself!  This lichen grows on the tops of dying or dead pine trees, usually very tall ones.  If the tree happens to fall to the ground where you could harvest the Usnea easily, deer in the area will have, most often, beaten you to it.  They recognize its nutritional and healing properties!

Usnea is specific for strep and staph infections and is strongly antifungal.    I also love Usnea for simple sore throats and more serious strep and staph infections.  Sidenote:  This is an excellent herb for kidney and bladder infections and for combating yeast infections.

Usnea is an immune system tonic that can be used in acute situations as well as for long-term immune enhancement and general prevention of autoimmune disorders. The immune properties of Usnea do not “pull” well in water; it is best to use them as a tincture.

Yarrow/Usnea

I have just spent a few moments reviewing in my mind the things I used—and love—Yarrow for.  The list has kept going on and on in my mind.  I have always been skeptical of herbs that someone claims do everything imaginable, but I have personally used Yarrow for something in the treatment of conditions in nearly every bodily system!  This herb really works!  Yarrow is one of the first things I reach for in so many situations.  Yarrow, mixed with Usnea as in this tincture combination, is powerful indeed!

The antibacterial properties of Usnea, combined with the astringent properties of Yarrow, dry out the mucous membranes of the lungs and bronchial tubes in pneumonia and bronchitis better than anything else I know or have ever used.

One of the best features of Yarrow is that it is plentiful all around me.  I can find some in my yard and nearly everywhere I may be if I am out in the woods for any reason.  Yarrow contains vitamins A, C, E, F, and some vitamin K.  It also contains manganese, copper, potassium, iodine, and iron.

Oregano

The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of Oregano are positively outstanding.  Fungal infections can exist both externally and internally.  Internal fungal infections, such as in the lungs, can be particularly difficult to treat!   Besides eradicating bacteria and fungus, Oregano contains the powerful antioxidant thymol (and a couple of others), and acts to strengthen the immune system as it destroys free radicals in the body.

Vitamin F is a rather unusual component in herbal remedies, but it is present in Oregano.  Oregano is also a source of natural omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system.  Research is showing that Oregano aids liver function and speeds up the process of toxin elimination.

Elderberry Plus

Elderberry Plus is formulated with herbs that are jam-packed with nutrients to help the body maintain wellness and vitality. As a result, this formula boosts the immune system, supports energy production, and addresses a host of nutritional deficiencies that weaken the immune system and leave us open to illnesses, both physical and mental.

The tincture can be taken daily for maximum nutritional and immune support or at the onset of illness to help shorten its duration. It has a pleasant taste due to the addition of clove and cinnamon. Of course, clove and cinnamon—like most spices—have outstanding medicinal properties.

Elderberry is traditionally used to boost immune response and can be taken daily to help prevent illness. Additionally, elderberry is known for fighting infections and reducing fevers, making it one of the world’s most healing plants.  As I walk out the door of my home, I see a beautiful elderberry tree that my husband planted at the edge of our garden area.  It is just now going from the beautiful blossom stage to the production of berries.  Both the flowers and the berries have outstanding medicinal properties.

Rosehips

Rosehips have extremely high levels of vitamins, particularly vitamin C.  Other nutrients include vitamins  A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and K, as well as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, choline, betaine, and the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and fluoride.  Most importantly, the nutrients in Rosehips are in an extremely absorbable form.

Iron needs vitamin C to be absorbed!  Vitamin C should always be taken during pregnancy and at other times when the absorption of additional iron is needed.  Iron supplements, in my experience, often cause either constipation or diarrhea.  The addition of Rosehips as a tea or tincture allows the body to absorb iron from regular food sources.  Of course, the diet must include these sources rather than just junk food, or even a diet that is mostly junk food!

Vitamin C also supports and enhances immune system function. It acts as an antioxidant, protects cells from damage, and enhances various immune cell functions, including those of B-cells and T-cells, which are vital for fighting off infections. Vitamin C also helps maintain epithelial barrier function and supports the antimicrobial activities of phagocytes.

Rosehips also contain most, if not all, of the other vitamins listed as necessary for optimum immune function.  This list of nutrients includes vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, K, C (of course), vitamin E (particularly amazing!), calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, and an organic selenium, and is absolutely necessary for heart health and many other functions.

BRON (formerly Bronchitis)

BRON is Butterfly’s (and my own) great remedy for bronchitis, as well as other varieties of pulmonary and respiratory congestion. BRON should be used with PL (discussed below) if pleurisy is present.  Pleurisy is the inflammation of the membrane sac surrounding the lungs.  If you have pleurisy, it will hurt to breathe.  If you have ever had pleurisy, you know that you never want to have it again.  A little prevention, especially when it comes to pleurisy, is a very good idea!  In other words, take BRON if you even suspect a respiratory issue is oncoming!

I used to do pleurisy (and bronchitis and sometimes pneumonia) every winter.  Not any more for years and years!  I am a walking testimony to the benefits of herbal remedies such as BRON for strengthening the immune and respiratory system!

While there are some very good anti-infectious herbs in this formula, I always take BRON in conjunction with IF, RC, or BAC.

LCON (formerly Lung Congestion) 

LCON is the ‘big guns’ when fighting back against bronchitis or pneumonia.  It contains some of the best infection-fighting herbs as well as the best of the herbs that are soothing and healing to the lungs and respiratory system!  However, this is a very hot tincture, due to the amounts of Horseradish and Cayenne used.  If you are paying any kind of attention to health matters, you should be catching things early and avoiding getting this desperate! However, it sure works well if you do get sick with one of the strong strains of virus and bacteria that seem to start circulating among us every fall.

I am glad to have something this effective in my repertoire!  (And I don’t mind a little bit of heat in my tinctures.)  Take 15-30 drops of tincture 3-4 times a day—more to tolerance, if necessary.

For normal use,(meaning you have not let things get out of control or are not particularly susceptible to lung congestion becoming deep and difficult to clear), PL—discussed below—with one of the infection fighters would be milder but equally as effective and would ensure that you won’t have to deal with inflammation in the pleura at the same time.

PL (formerly Pleurisy/Lung)

The pleura is the membrane sac that surrounds the lungs.  If it becomes inflamed, it can be extremely painful.  If you have ever had pleurisy, you know exactly what I am talking about.

Because the lungs are large and the pleura completely surrounds them, the pain can be felt anywhere in the chest and back.  A knowledgeable nurse friend of mine once mistook an attack of pleurisy for a heart attack, had an ambulance come for her, and remarked that she had not been properly sympathetic with patients she had known suffering from pleurisy.  Pleurisy can be very painful!

This is a very effective formula, but it needs to be taken in conjunction with an infection fighter (such as IF or RC) and a formula to clear and drain the lungs (such as WC).  The application of heat to the painful area brings a measure of relief.

SS (formerly Staph & Strep)

The SS formula contains Pau d’Arco, Usnea (discussed above), Echinacea (also discussed previously in this article), and three very important but lesser-known by most people herbs.  They are Lomatium, Osha, and Oregon Grape.  I am going to take the time and the space to acquaint you a little bit with these three herbs.

Lomatium is a very powerful herbal antibiotic and antiviral agent that is especially effective in conditions affecting the lungs.  Lomatium also seems to significantly improve overall immune function.  Taken early in the season, Lomatium can be a preventative during the cold and flu season as it increases resistance.  There is an impressive list of bacteria that studies indicate Lomatium is effective against in laboratory settings.

Osha is an herb native to the Rocky Mountain range of North America—right where I live.  However, Osha likes altitudes quite a bit higher than mine. Osha is best known for its ability to soothe a sore throat, combat a sinus infection, treat a cough, and relieve inflammation in the bronchial tubes.  Osha, like Echinacea, is best when used in the early stages of a cold or the flu—take it just as soon as you suspect that you might be getting sick.  Osha, taken internally, promotes the type of healing sweat that brings down a fever when it has been too high for too long.  Fevers kill “critters,” but Osha seems to know how high a fever can safely get, control it, yet leave enough heat to continue to eradicate the infection.

The list of tincture formulations that I have included Oregon Grape in is very long!  I have a tremendous respect for this herb and have tried to take advantage of its many healing properties by using it for as many various applications and body systems as I possibly could.  It would take pages just to highlight for a sentence or two each of the many health benefits of Oregon Grape.

Berberine is an important part of Oregon Grape (as it is in Goldenseal) and is responsible for a large part of the long list of healing properties of this plant.  Plants containing berberine always show a broad spectrum of antibiotic activity.  The action of berberine is actually considered to be stronger than that of modern antibiotics, but berberine produces no side effects.  Effectiveness against strep and staph is a hallmark of berberine-containing plants and usually requires only low doses for effectiveness.

Featured Blessed Waters for Respiratory Health & Immunity

Blessed Waters, like homeopathic remedies, come in several types. For example: 1) low potency combination remedies as are the first 10 of this month’s featured Blessed Waters. 2) Remedies made from one single source. The source may be just about anything at all:  Animal, mineral, plant, snake or insect venom, water from specific mineral sources, even various lights, colors, and sounds. Blessed Water Homeopathic Remedies are incredible healers. So incredible as to be almost beyond belief until you have experienced their healing power for yourself! The study and use of these potent healers is fascinating, and working with them has been one of the great joys of my life.

Low potency combination remedies are generally taken 5 – 10 drops of the remedy once a day for 5 days, skip for 2 days, then repeat the schedule for up to 6 weeks. Resume schedule as needed to get the best results possible. If symptoms remain, a round as described above, of a different/follow-up remedy may be needed. For acute conditions, especially as applies to the immune system, 5-10 drops of the remedy may need to be taken every 15 minutes for a total of 5 times. The above description is a very simplified description of Blessed Water/Homeopathic dosing.

Blessed Waters/Homeopathics are prescribed according to what is referred to as the ‘symptom picture’. The symptoms being experienced should (must) closely match the symptoms the person taking the remedy has been experiencing. This is a very simplified description of Blessed Water/Homeopathic dosing protocols.

Immune Support

This remedy was formulated to build and support the immune system. The ingredients in this combination remedy can help to correct disturbed or low immune responses by acting as ‘immune system modulators’.  ‘Modulating’ indicates that the ingredients in this remedy affect the functioning of the immune system by calming an overactive immune response or by stimulating a more robust response if that is what is needed.   It is not that some of the ingredients do one thing and some of them do another.  Each remedy affects certain aspects of the immune system by operating on whichever side of the scale is needed!  This paragraph is another example of a very simplified description of Blessed Water/Homeopathic theory and choice of remedy protocols.

Please see the ButterflyExpress.shop web page for ‘Immune Support’ for further information about each remedy.  Perhaps, when you have finished a protocol using this low potency combination, you may want to consider using whichever remedy that closely matches any remaining symptoms in a higher potency.

Respiratory #1

This remedy should be considered for extreme lung issues where lymph is clogged not just in the lungs but throughout the entire body, including such other internal organs (along with the lungs) as the pancreas and intestinal tract. It should always be remembered that the body is not a collection of parts that must be repaired or replaced if a single part breaks down.  The body functions—and always heals—as a whole!

The Butterfly Express, LLC, essential oil blend ^LeStefanie was created as a companion to Respiratory #1 and should be considered for use at the same time.

Respiratory #2

This remedy was potentized (made into a Homeopathic/Blessed Water energetic remedy) from two herbal ingredients. Osha, discussed above in the herbal section, is considered one of nature’s strongest anti-viral remedies. Lungwort, reflecting its name in its healing properties, is known to be effective for pulmonary issues from mild ones (coughing, hoarseness, irritation) to deeper ones such as bleeding in lung tissues.

Homeopathic remedies are sold and described using their Latin names so as to avoid confusion from country to country and continent to continent in this complicated world of ours.  Symptoms you might see if Ligusticum porteri (Osha) is needed include symptoms associated with colds, coughs, bronchitis, and the flu, including sore throat, lung congestion, and difficulty breathing. It’s believed to help clear mucus and open airways.  Ligusticum porteri is also regarded as an immune booster and is recommended for various bacterial and viral infections, including respiratory tract infections.  Sidenote:  This remedy (Ligusticum) is also used to improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.

Respiratory #3

This combination remedy appears to focus on dry, irritated coughs that are made worse by changes in atmospheric pressure, such as flying or weather changes. Interestingly, the symptoms are made worse by deep breathing (running or just trying to take deep breaths) and are often triggered by bouts of anger or resentment that are held deep inside the mind and heart.

The left lung (which is the lung that is shaped around the heart giving it a deep pocket under the heart and a narrower, differently shaped than the right lung) seems to be particularly focused on by two of the ingredients of this remedy.  Myrtus communis has a powerful action on the upper part of the left lung and is indicated for dry hollow cough from upper anterior portion of lungs, dryness in the throat, stitching pain running from left breast through to the scapula.

I find the symptom picture of Ranunculus scleratus (buttercup) particularly fascinating.  The symptom picture includes gnawing pain in the left palm.  In Reflexology and Foot Zone theory and practice, this is the area of the foot (and therefore the palm, as well) that is associated with the heart and the lung tissue surrounding it.  This is an area of particular interest and constant work with my husband, who inhaled heat and gasoline fumes in an explosion many years ago!

For further information on the other remedies in this combination, please see Respiratory #3 on the ButterflyExpress.shop website.

Respiratory #4

Only one remedy in this combination (Vespa crabro—wasp venom) is strongly indicated for lung issues.  The other two, a Bach Flower remedy (Pine) and a remedy made from soothing mineral springs water (Teplitz aqua), are strongly emotional in nature.

The Pine Bach Flower Essence was listed by Dr. Bach in his grouping titled ‘For Those Who Suffer Despondency and Despair’. Pine is useful for states connected to guilt, regret, and self-reproach, and an inability to objectively acknowledge one’s faults. This remedy includes nervous breathing syndrome and insomnia.

The symptoms of Teplitz aqua include tearfulness, low spirits, irritability, and speech difficulties. This remedy is particularly indicated for gout, which is often brought on by issues with the kidneys. The symptoms are worse at night and better with drinking cold water.

Respiratory #5

The remedies in this combination influence far more than lung issues, although two of the remedies are very strong in the support and healing of respiratory issues.  These two are Calcarea phosphorica and Natrum sulphuricum.

The symptoms of Calcarea phosphorica include rattling of mucus in the lungs, enlargement of tonsils, breathing is more frequent than it should be and is short and difficult, a child loses breath on being lifted up, suffocating attacks in children following nursing—the breathing is made worse by crying. There is a predisposition to glandular and bone diseases. Ailments of this remedy are brought on by grief, either recent or unprocessed. This connection to grief is typical of all phosphoric remedies.

Natrum sulphuricum symptoms include asthma that is worse in damp weather, pain in the lower left chest, cough with roughness in the throat, eyes sensitive to sunlight, and depression.

The other four remedies influence the kidneys, glands throughout the body, including the pancreas, eyes that are sensitive to light, various bone diseases, headaches, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and depression brought on by recent or even long unprocessed grief and loss.

Congestion #1

Congestion somewhere is almost always a large part of any respiratory ailment.  This is true whether the deepest area of concern is in the lungs, the throat, the sinuses, or even just the eyes.

With the ingredient Natrum muriaticum, there is a tendency to catch colds, have hay fever, or suffer from a wide range of allergies. The mucus membranes will be dry and then, alternatively, produce white or clear, acrid discharges. There will be buzzing, humming, ringing, and roaring in the ears, as well as great weakness and weariness, with the weakness felt in the morning, even before leaving the bed.

The congestion of Viola odorata also centers on the ears, with the congestion affecting the entire head, as well.  The pain in the ears spreads until it results in congestive-type headaches and even pain that is felt in the eyeballs.  There may have been, very likely, frequent ear infections beginning almost at birth.  Frequently, also, there is also a great deal of ringing in the ears.

Equisteum hymale symptoms also center in the head with severe headaches that bring on intense pain in the upper part of the eyes.  There will be a congestive feeling in the forehead with darting pains that constantly change locality.

Congestion #2

The following is a small amount of information on each of the symptom pictures of the ingredients in this remedy as they apply to the respiratory system, respiratory ailments, and keynote emotional symptoms.

Chicory, a flower essence:  Physical symptoms include congestion in the bronchial tubes with difficulty breathing in and out. The breathing difficulties are linked to holding on to some degree of martyr syndrome.  The person is constantly serving others but has a lot of built-up resentment at not being properly appreciated.  Too often, the service and the hurt feelings are tactics of manipulation and control.  A very bad pattern indeed.  The beauty of Blessed Water/Homeopathic remedies is that they always work on the emotional drivers that lie behind the physical ailment. 

Iris versicolor symptoms include congestion and pain in the throat and bronchial tubes.  The symptoms get worse in the evening and even worse as the night progresses.

Thuja occidentalis is specific to asthma and breathing difficulties in children (sometimes/too often, in my opinion and experience, linked to vaccinations).  Thuja has been for many years the leading remedy for the ill effects of vaccinations. Physical symptoms include rapid exhaustion and emaciation, chronic sinus infections with the unusual keynote of sweat only on the parts of the body that are uncovered. Emotional and mental symptoms include feeling isolated and all alone, self-contempt, and depression. Symptoms are worse at night and, interestingly, worse when talking.

Colds #1 

Allium cepa, which is made from red onions, has more symptoms of common colds and hay fever than any other remedy. If you have cut up raw onions, you have a pretty good idea of the symptom picture of this remedy.  (Yes, that is another of the unique features of Blessed Water/Homeopathic prescribing!)

Euphrasia officinalis, made from that great herb Eyebright.  This remedy is effective for hay fever with watery eyes. It does not matter, homeopathically speaking, whether the symptoms are from an allergy or from an infection; the symptom picture is what determines remedy choice. Other symptoms of Euphrasia include conjunctivitis with sticky mucus, burning and swelling of the eyelids, feeling as if there were sand in the eyes, and catarrhal headache with profuse discharges from the eyes and nose. Euphrasia also affects the nose and chest, as well as the eyes.

Aconite napellus is not a remedy that I typically think of for respiratory illnesses.  Rather, I think of it from serious trauma, whether caused by accidents, illness, or some deep emotional event.   When Rescue Remedy fails to work, I reach for Aconite.  However,  a great many of the symptoms when this remedy is needed are respiratory in nature and cover the full spectrum of possibilities. Mental and emotional symptoms include many forebodings and fears.  The person may very well express the feeling that they are not going to survive or will never be well again.

Arsenicum album is a true polycrest remedy.  This means that it will probably be of great benefit to most people at some time in their lives.  This is because the symptom picture of this remedy covers nearly every body system in some way or another.   This is the first remedy to reach for in any acute ailment, but it is particularly useful for colds, hay fever, influenza, and food poisoning. Shortness of breath with the current illness is a keynote symptom. Mental and emotional symptoms include extreme restlessness, or anxiety and restlessness manifesting alternatively.

Colds #2 

There are four Blessed Waters included in this combination remedy.  Between them, they cover such respiratory issues as sore throats, including strep throat.  There may also be recurring/chronic ear infections, a full and congested feeling in the upper part of the lungs and all of the symptoms of the common cold including fluent coryza with attacks of sneezing that are accompanied by headaches and conjunctivitis with burning and stinging of the eyelids and sensitivity to light.  Other symptoms may include a constant dry hacking cough, usually in the evenings after lying down.

Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea are both ingredients of this remedy.  Besides many symptoms of respiratory distress and ailments, Echinacea (both plant species) are blood and immune tonics.  This is true whether the Echinacea is being utilized in herbal or homeopathic forms.

Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum) 

Yerba Santa, in Spanish, translates to ‘Holy Herb’.  According to Flower Essence (and other) healing philosophies, many health conditions have unique and specific connections to mental and emotional imbalances and feelings.  Constriction in the lungs and difficulty breathing, according to these philosophies, often have links to sadness, grief, and deep emotional pain.

This North American Flower Essence remedy can strengthen one’s capacity to feel deep pain but then heal and find peace.  There is a hallowed space within the human heart which, when strong, manifests as strength in the physical body.  This strength—or, conversely, weakness here—often appears for better or worse in the respiratory system.

Lungwort 

The historical belief system, the “Doctrine of Signatures” (which I have studied intensely and find very informative), suggested that plants resembling certain body parts could be used to treat ailments of those organs. Lungwort’s spotted leaves, resembling lung tissue, led to its use for respiratory issues in medieval Europe.  Lungwort has proven useful for just such ailments in herbal and homeopathic use during all of the intervening years in cultures that take advantage of herbal and homeopathic healing capabilities. 

Lungwort, over the years and still today, is used for lung-related problems such as coughs, bronchitis, asthma, sore throats, and absolutely anything else respiratory.  Lungwort is an ingredient in the Respiratory #2 blend, which was discussed above.

Bryonia alba 

In the discussion of Colds #1, above, Aconite napellus was mentioned.  I refer to it here because Bryonia has a very similar symptom picture to that amazing first-aid for serious conditions, Aconite napellus.  There is, however, one outstanding difference between these two Blessed Water/Homeopathic remedies.   The action of Bryonia is less rapid than Aconite, whose response is almost instantaneous.  Instantaneous is, of course, very desirable in acute situations like accidents or injury.  While not as rapid in response, Bryonia appears to go much deeper.  Bryonia is often used as a follow-up, deep healing remedy where the positive effects of Aconite have been completed.  I, personally, have used this technique more than once over the years.

Some specific symptoms of Bryonia include sharp pains in the chest made worse by motion, deep breathing, and coughing.  Bronchitis. Pneumonia.  Asthma that is usually worse at night.  Coughs are deep and painful.  Pleurisy with sharp pains made worse by any motion.  Difficulty breathing, made worse by eating or drinking, and only relieved by sitting up and accompanied by severe pain in the chest.   Deep breaths bring on paroxysms of coughing.

Kali carbonicum 

This is a remedy with a deep affinity for conditions of the heart, lungs, pleura, bronchials, larynx, and, interestingly, the uterus.   Tendency to shortness of breath during the night and to sleep apnea.   Asthmatics respond well to this remedy if the emotional patterns are a match, as well as the physical symptoms being similar.    The person for whom this remedy will be of benefit probably has a tendency to frequent colds and/or has never been really well again since having pneumonia.    Tuberculosis is also listed in many sources as a condition that responds to this remedy.

Materia medica, in their descriptions of this remedy, always mention ‘obstinate’ and stubborn as characteristics of the person.  Antagonistic attitudes, even with himself or herself.  Claims to love company but is impatient with them when they are present.  Full of fear and great fear of death when alone.

Phosphorus 

Clinical/medical conditions for which Phosphorus may prove useful include asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and nearly every other type of lung disorder, colds, and coughs.  The coughing spells are unique in that the whole body trembles during a coughing spell.

Phosphorus is also indicated for jaundice, liver disorders, nosebleeds, and nightmares.  Emotionally, Pphosphorus is indicated by being over-sensitive and overly excitable.  My very calm father used to describe these sorts of emotional reactions/states as “senseless” rather than “sensitive”.  A Phosphorus personality is fearful of many things.  At least they are when in an imbalanced state or are either ill or ‘coming down’ with something.  A person who would benefit from Phosphorus craves sympathy and reassurance.

Pulsatilla nigricans 

Like the Phosphorus person described above, a person who would benefit from Pulsatilla craves affection and sympathy.  They really do feel better, physically and emotionally, by a bit of whining that is well-received and sympathized with.  They are always better by being held or given hugs!

Under “Lungs” in Materia Medica (books which describe homeopathic symptom pictures) Pulsatilla is described with such words as craves fresh air, must have open windows, symptoms worse in warm or stuffy rooms, must sit up in bed to relieve coughing sprees, dry and hacking coughs, and urine passes involuntarily with coughing, groaning or rattling sound when coughing. 

Silica (Silica terra) 

The most important thing to know about Silica as it relates to both respiratory health and a strong immune system is that Silica can stimulate the body to reabsorb fibrotic conditions and scar tissue.  Stated another way, for clarity and emphasis, this almost unbelievably effective polycrest remedy removes damaged and scarred tissue anywhere it has developed in the body.

More specifically, as Silica applies to this month’s topic, Silica, as a Blessed Water or Homeopathic remedy, aids in the removal of scarred and damaged tissue anywhere in the body.  This includes all respiratory organs from the nose and tongue through the lungs.  And, of course, weakness and failure of other organs lead to chronic illnesses and, eventually, to immune system compromise.

Mental and emotional symptoms include being faint-hearted and anxious, nervous and excitable, with a lack of confidence in oneself and one’s abilities. Procrastination and poor concentration are keynotes.

Liquid Minerals

Butterfly Express, LLC carries a wide variety of liquid minerals.  A great deal of time and research went into choosing the minerals Butterfly carries.  I love to make a list of my current symptoms and then create a mineral mix that best fills my needs. (Sometimes, I just use muscle testing to arrive at the list and the proportions.  Then I research those minerals to see what I am missing or ignoring in my diet.  Very educational!)  I have been doing this for years, and I am absolutely convinced that this regimen is a big part of what allows me to have the health and energy that I have, even as I age bit by bit every year!

Here’s a link to a blog I wrote on the topic a few years ago: Dehydration & Minerals by LaRee Westover. You can also check out this great video my daughter, Valaree, put together on the same subject: The Importance of Minerals for your Health.

^LeMariah Essential Oil Blend

This blend was specifically created several years ago when it seemed that new flu strains were coming online and giving many people a very hard time, especially during the convalescent/recovery stages.  It seemed at the time, and still seems true today, that these new strains manifest very differently from one person to another.   One person may sustain damage to the circulatory system during their illness, while another person may be hit hardest in the lungs and respiratory areas. ^LeMariah should be used in conjunction with ^LeRevitalize for endocrine support to increase energy and stamina. Use ^LeMariah in conjunction with ^LeVitality to strengthen the heart.

At the time of its creation, this blend contained several essential oils that were not commonly used yet in the world of healing essential oils.  Butterfly Express, LLC was and is a real (as my husband describes it) essential oil company.  The goal always was to seek out and learn about lesser-known but very effective essential oils, learn to utilize them to their fullest capacities in outstanding blends, and then provide them to others as both singles and in blended formulations!

This blend is strongly antiviral and antibacterial, and it has a tremendous ability to clear and support the lungs during times of serious illness.

Blue Cypress Essential Oil

Australian Blue Cypress is an excellent respiratory oil. It is very effective at clearing the lungs of phlegm and congestion and, thus, supports the return of normal breathing patterns with coughs, colds, sinusitis, and any type of lung congestion. This is an excellent essential oil for use with that nasty and painful condition known as pleurisy!

The blue color associated with Australian Blue Cypress is due to the amount of guaiazulene present in the oil.  Guaiazulene has a wide range of functions, including anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antioxidant,  antimutagenic (a problem with some of the ‘critters’ that cause illness), immunomodulatory and immuno-stimulating, fungicidal, expectorant, diuretic, diaphoretic, demulcent, and bitter stimulant properties.  Blue Cypress is considered around the world as a potent and effective support and strengthener of the immune system.

Mullein Carrier Oil

Mullein has been used for centuries because of its outstanding medicinal properties. The herb Mullein grows, typically, in dry, barren places. Following the ancient law of signatures, this would indicate that Mullein is an herb for respiratory conditions, especially those where the lungs need “drying out.” Mullein also has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-spasmodic properties, thus increasing its value in respiratory ailments, and is certainly recommended for use as a carrier oil with these conditions.

Mullein Oil, as a carrier oil, should be used when applying oils to the chest for infections, coughs, and any type of lung or throat congestion. It can be used in the ears, alone or as part of the EO recipe, to relieve the pain of ear infections and fight the bacteria involved.

It is one of my favorite carrier oils whenever I am working with inflammation and pain. Mullein is even gentle enough to be used on babies for diaper rash and for cracked nipples with nursing mothers.  Mullein is an all-around amazingly gentle but nourishing carrier oil!

Junior 3-Oil Kit

Some years ago, cautions were issued by certain government agencies concerning the use of Birch and Wintergreen essential oils for children. At Butterfly Express, LLC it was decided to re-create these three blends with lesser percentages of these two essential oils. Please bear in mind that I had been using these essential oil blends on my children with astonishing results and no problems for many years. Of course, I used them well-diluted, as all essential oils should be when used with children.
Peppermint oil is used in place of much of the birch and all of the Wintergreen in these ‘Jr.’ blends. The peppermint does a fine job of maintaining the healing capacities desired (as well as adding some properties of its own) to the new formulations. These are very synergistic, well-done, and effective formulations and absolutely safe for use with children. Please continue to dilute these and all essential oils when applying to the skin.

^LeBreezey Jr.

^LeBreezey, both the original formula and the one specially made for children, is an excellent respiratory tonic and immune stimulant. The inclusion of Ravensara oil in these blends creates viral-fighting and tissue-rebuilding properties. This is especially true with lung and bronchial tissues. This blend can also be used for colds, asthma, allergies, sinus congestion, and flu. The aroma of ^LeBreezey Jr. is astonishingly similar to that of the original ^LeBreezey formula.

^LeDeeper Jr.

^LeDeeper Jr. contains penetrating, anti-inflammatory oils that aid in relieving pain that is deep in the tissues and nerves. ^LeDeeper Jr. contains less birch and no wintergreen than the original formula, as explained above.  The amount of peppermint, as well as the percentages of eucalyptus, fir, peppermint, and spruce, have been increased.  The junior has a similar aroma, with the junior being a bit more mellow, mostly as a result of the higher percentage of spruce.

^LeDeeper and ^LeDeeper Jr. are my personal favorites among Butterfly’s many analgesic blends.  My children, during their growing-up years, just insisted on providing me with lots of opportunities to keep ‘perfecting’ the original ^LeDeeper formula.

^LePaine Jr.

^LePaine is much more than a pain reliever, although it is strongly analgesic.  This blend promotes quicker healing by increasing circulation to the injured area.  Increased circulation brings increased oxygen as well as the natural healing elements found in the blood to the injury.  ^LePaine is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming to nerves.

^LePaine contains essential oils that make it useful as a muscle relaxant and as a respiratory oil.  The original ^LePaine blend, used predominantly for adults, can be used for sciatica, bone pain, arthritis, sports injuries, muscle spasms, torn ligaments, headaches, osteoporosis, bone spurs, bursitis, back pain, and bruising.  For children?  Any of the many bumps and lumps they may bring about on their precious little bodies and spirits.

CAUTIONS: If you use ^LePaine in the tub or shower for pain relief or muscle relaxation, use no more than 2 or 3 drops.

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