diseases 249
f Other herbs that help maintain the positive function of the lungs
(helping to clear excess mucus and, in turn, to facilitate oxygen replen-
ishment) are chickweed leaf, eucalyptus leaf, licorice root, horehound
leaf, and elecampane leaf and fl ower. Use in equal parts. In the short
term, small amounts of coltsfoot leaf can be used.
f Dr. Christopher’s B & B ear formula (see chapter 11) can be useful,
because release in the ears can often help release the nasal passages.
f Lymph herbs may help to decongest a very clogged system; use three
parts mullein fl owers, two parts pokeweed root, two parts cleavers
leaf, and one part lobelia leaf.
f Use herbal snuff, a mixture of powdered herbs in equal amounts:
bayberry root, lobelia leaf, cayenne pod, horseradish root, turmeric
root, and mustard seed. Put a tiny amount on the back of the hand
and sniff into each nostril in turn. Hold as long as possible, then blow
your nose. Repeat procedure twice daily. This mixture is also useful
for nasal polyps.
~ Essential oil inhalers are helpful: Use one, more, or all of the follow-
ing: peppermint, eucalyptus, pine, and camphor. Breathe in deeply
until the nose feels clearer. An ointment can be made of these inhal-
ant herbs (or bought ready-made) and used over the chest, back, and
nasal passages, particularly at nighttime to help with the extra clog-
ging that occurs during this static time.
~ Determine what kind of weakened digestive system you have, and
treat appropriately — refer to “The Digestive System” in chapter 9.
osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a decrease in bone mass; it affects one-third of all women
by the age of seventy. But younger people can be affected as a result of the
body being unable to absorb and utilize nutrients properly (or during
pregnancy, especially if you become pregnant frequently). Menopause can
affect magnesium and calcium levels because of the reduction in estrogen,
triggering a loss of bone mass; so pay attention to calcium and
magnesium needs from the age of forty. Maintaining healthy level of
these minerals will prepare and strengthen you in readiness for
menopause, as well as supporting kidney function. A large meat intake will
inhibit calcium absorption. Meat also contains large amounts of
phosphorus, which ruins the calcium-phosphorus balance by inhibiting
calcium levels. Any prolonged cortisone treatment will also take its toll;
cortisone inhibits bone formation and decreases absorption of calcium in
the stomach. Those with rheumatoid arthritis are often treated with
steroids and may suffer from osteoporosis later on.
249 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition