The Complete Home Guide todiHseerabsse, Nsatural Healing, and Nutrition

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Take hot and cold showers twice a day, directing the water over the

thyroid area (the front of the neck).

Massage, using light strokes.

unusually strong menstrual flow (menorrhagia)

Occasionally, and always when it’s least expected or wanted, one’s period

can f ood. Should the f ood be of short duration, there is no problem; but

if it continues for days on end, or repeats itself each month, hormone

imbalances or displacement of the spine or hip must be considered and

professional help sought. Sometimes menorrhagia occurs because there

has been no ovulation; then the increased thickening of the uterine wall

can cause congestive infection.

Follow the general tips in chapter 8 on menstruation. Professional

advice should be sought if the problem persists.

An increase in dietary iodine is important (take kelp tablets or eat

extra seaweed).

Consume plenty of superfood.

Keep the diet simple yet supportive, with just whole grains, vegeta-

bles, and fruit.

f It is useful to take astringent herbs to stanch the f ow. A classic choice

would be red raspberry leaf — an astringent rich in iron and calcium.

Other herbs would include lady’s-mantle leaf, cranesbill leaf, or yar-

row leaf. Yarrow is available for picking from spring to late autumn;

use it to make a tea.

f To balance the hormones, there are many herb options; an individual

choice of plants will probably be necessary. Start with chaste tree

berry and squaw vine root.

Don’t exercise heavily until the f ow has decreased, and keep any

water contact gentle and warm.

urethritis

Infection of the urethra needs similar treatment to cystitis, but extra

mucilaginous and soothing herbs are usually needed; for instance,

increase your intake of marshmallow root.

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Keep your diet simple yet supportive with whole grains, vegetables,

and fruits initially.

Drink plenty of barley water, and water in general.

Home Guide to Herbs - davies