diseases 241
f Try drinking a diuretic fl uid such as dandelion root tea, or if you have
none, drink lots of water.
~ A compress of lobelia leaf (see compresses in chapter 3) is soothing
when placed over the kidney area, or substitute fi ve drops of lobelia
leaf tincture hourly (taken internally). Make the compress as hot as
you can (a wet, hot rag with lobelia tincture poured onto it is quick),
then put a hot water bottle over it.
~ A cold compress on the forehead will ease any nausea or fever.
liver spots
Liver spots are brown blotches that occur on the backs of hands and on
the face and neck, generally in later life. They are sometimes referred to
as age spots. They are an indication of a strained liver, so it is necessary to
clear and regulate the liver and gallbladder. Excessive exposure to the sun
can exacerbate their appearance. Liver “coat hangers” or liver “infl ated
spots” are the same, only three-dimensional, and can be a nuisance as they
catch on clothing.
- Increase intake of vitamins B complex, C, and E and appropriate
foods to help the liver function better — see chapter 9.
(^) ~ Colon and liver cleanses will be necessary, along with the herbs as-
sociated with them — see chapter 6.
~ Treat the spots topically with a mix of equal amounts of lemon juice
and castor oil nightly.
~ Stay out of direct sunlight while treating this condition. Wear sun-
screen.
low blood pressure (hypotension)
You can have naturally low blood pressure. It can be hereditary, and
vegans and vegetarians certainly have naturally lower blood pressure than
eaters of fl esh and dairy products. A vegetarian’s normal blood pressure is
110/70, compared to an average meat eater’s blood pressure of 120/80.
For an accurate indication of blood pressure health, note how you feel.
Are you tired, lethargic, and regularly yawning? If you suspect or know
that your blood pressure is very low, get professional help in examining
your diet, exercise, and adrenal and thyroid function, as well as your
bowel, lymph, and other systems, for signs of imbalance. Seriously
consider the possibility of anemia (see “Anemia” and “Poor Circulation
and Chil blains,” in this chapter).
241 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition