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for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink 3 times a day or when needed. Tincture: Take 1/2 tsp. 3 times a day.
St. John's Wort: Hypericum perforatum
Part used: Aerial parts.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, astringent, vulnerary, nervine, antimicrobial.
Indications: Taken internally, St. John's wort has a sedative and mild pain-reducing effect, which gives it a place in the treatment of neuralgia, anxiety, tension and similar problems. It is especially regarded as an herb to use where there are menopausal changes triggering irritability and anxiety. It is increasingly recommended in the treatment of depression. The standardized extract is recognized as an effective treatment for depressive states, fear and nervous disturbances by the German government. In addition to neuralgic pain, it will ease fibrositis, sciatica and rheumatic pain. Externally it is a valuable healing and anti-inflammatory remedy. As a lotion it will speed the healing of wounds and bruises, varicose veins and mild burns. The oil is especially useful for the healing of sunburn.
Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1 to 2 tsp. of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink 3 times a day. Tincture: Take 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. 3 times a day. Tablet: In the treatment of depression the recommended dose is 300 mg of concentrated dry extract standardized to 0.3 percent hypericin 3 times daily.
Thyme: Thymus vulgaris
Part used: Leaves and flowering tops.
Actions: Carminative, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, expectorant, astringent, anthelmintic.
Indications: With its high content of volatile oil, thyme makes a good carminative for use in dyspepsia and sluggish digestion. This oil is also a strongly antiseptic sub-

 
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