IF YOU feel yourself becoming frazzled around the edges at the hassle of preparing for Christmas try taking some Avena Sativa. This herb, an extract of oats, is a strengthening tonic for the nervous system and it can help provide almost immediate relief at times of tension and stress in our lives.
It may just provide the perfect antidote for an overwrought mind in the weeks and days leading up to Christmas. Avena sativa is free from side effects and contra-indications and can be taken by all age groups.
A STOMACH BITTER FOR CHRISTMAS BLOAT
Eating too much has become almost part and parcel of the modern Christmas experience. However it comes at a price for many of us. The good news is that Christmas does not have to feel like this! Prepare your intestine by taking a stomach bitter before meals.
A stomach bitter such as centurium, dandelion or yarrow will stimulate the flow of digestive juice into your stomach and intestines and enable digestion to take place much more efficiently. Taking a stomach bitter before meals, especially those that include plentiful and rich foods, will help relieve most of the symptoms of a challenged digestion.
You meanwhile can get on with the business of enjoying the lovely foods of Christmas in peace and harmony!
MILK THISTLE FOR THE CHRISTMAS HANGOVER
Most of us who drink consume more alcohol over Christmas time than at any other time of year. Needless to say increased alcohol can take its toll – especially on the system of someone not used to consuming it. The liver in particular is put under increased pressure.
Milk thistle is well documented for its beneficial effect on the liver. Moreover it regenerates the liver by stimulating the production of new liver cells.
This herb helps regenerate the liver by stimulating the production of new liver cells. It is also a potent antioxidant which helps to protect the liver from the free radical damage caused by toxins such as alcohol. Milk thistle can be used throughout the Christmas period to help reduce the hangover effect caused by too much alcohol.
Milk Thistle is virtually devoid of side effects and may be used by both pregnant and breast feeding women. Since Milk Thistle does stimulate both liver and gall bladder activity it may have a mild laxative effect in some people. This will usually only last for two-three days.
People on drug medication, which requires careful blood level monitoring, are best to avoid milk thistle. This includes warfarin and other anticoagulant medication, epilepsy and anticonvulsive medication.
HOLY BASIL FOR CHRISTMAS SADNESS
Many of us for varied reasons are sad for Christmas. Holy Basil is a mood elevating herb that can help lift the spiritually bereft mind. It can be profoundly useful for those recently bereaved and missing a loved one at Christmas or for those recently separated or for those away from home and lonely at Christmas. Holy basil should not be taken alongside prescription antidepressants and tranquillisers.
FRANKINCENSE-A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GIFT
The Bible tells us that frankincense was one of the gifts brought by the three kings to the stable in Bethlehem. It has since played a significant role in religious and church life. For centuries it has been an important ingredient in incense mixtures burned in Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox churches.
Today it is a major ingredient in Jewish ceremonial incense. The fragrance of frankincense has a great space cleansing effect and it induces on the mind a sense of deep calm. Burning this oil in your home will have a similar effect and it's beautiful fragrance will help create a very welcoming and calming atmosphere for all your Christmas visitors.
Nuala Lilley is a pharmacist who chooses to specialise and work in the field of Natural Health. She may be contacted at Nature's Choice Health shop, 30 East Bridge Street, Enniskillen. Telephone: 02866 328993. E-mail; Nuala @natureschoice.eu
