By Jonathan Evans
Herbal Information Specialist for the Herbarium
Happy summer to all! A couple of issues have come up recently at The Herbarium, and I suppose it is time to remind you all of some basic information about oils and supplements.
Three things to remember
1. Using essential oils such as peppermint and mustard (I did not know there was a mustard essential oil) to help detoxify is not a good idea. To detox means to get rid of – or remove – something. Adding an essential oil to your skin is not going to help eliminate anything. It could, in fact, cause more problems. The following is from Ron Pappas, the recognized expert in essential oil safety and chemistry:
“To some extent, the detox theory in aromatherapy challenges the definition of detoxification altogether as it aligns an additive process (topical application of an essential oil or blend) with an eliminative process (detoxification) (Pappas, n.d.). In true detoxification, something is removed, diminished, or eradicated.
To really drive a detoxification response, an essential oil would have to directly engage with the body’s elimination systems. In the case of the skin specifically, elimination of unwanted substances occurs via sweat glands (perspiration) and sebaceous glands (acne, boils, etc.) (Marieb, 2014). Invariably, elimination through the skin occurs via fluids exiting the body. While the skin does support elimination through perspiration, scientists suspect that “less than 1 percent of toxins are excreted this way” (Johnson, 2014). Though the detox theory suggests that skin reactions following topical application indicate a detoxifying effect through the skin from the applied essential oil, “It’s highly unlikely that everyone who experiences a skin reaction from topical essential oil application is sweating these toxins out immediately after, or several hours following application” (Johnson, 2014)
2. Taking calcium carbonate for your bone health or muscle cramps is not a good idea. Carbonate is the cheapest and most common form of calcium (it’s the one you find in tablet form, usually 600 mgs). First, carbonate is an antacid, meaning it neutralizes your stomach acid (think TUMS). It is also the form that has been recommended for decades to help women with osteoporosis (it doesn’t, very much) It is also the reason for recent reports telling women NOT to take calcium because of atherosclerosis and kidney stones. Excess calcium is going to cause more cramps not less.
3. If you are experiencing muscle pain and weakness and you are on a statin drug for cholesterol, you must tell your doctor immediately. Statins cause muscle pain and more serious problems. It could be the type or the dosage, but please do not assume it’s arthritis or just old age. Chances are it is not. And don’t believe the stories saying these aches are “rare”, they are not. If you are experiencing memory loss and are on statins, do not believe its old age, it could be the drug.
MORE OF YOUR QUESTIONS
Dear Jonathan,
We were trying to clear out leaves and debris in the year and came upon a whole patch of poison ivy. Unfortunately we did not see it before we hauled the leaves out. We are covered and itchy and calamine lotion is useless. Is there anything that can stop the itch?
Roger
Dear Roger,
Yes, there are plenty of things. We have found Grampa’s pine tar soap can be useful. There are homeopathic blends that can really reduce the inflammation and itching, that actually contain poison ivy, but in a very dilute form.
Jonathan
Dear Jonathan,
The weather is getting warm and I spend a lot of time outdoors. I am always looking for something to drink to help me recover after working out or sweating a lot. I am not too sure about the sports drinks I see advertised. Do you know of anything that can help with this?
Edward
Dear Edward,
I have always wondered about “all natural” drinks that glow in the dark and look similar to my antifreeze. Happily, there are a variety of choices for you. Apple cider vinegar, with the “mother” in it, with some water and maybe a bit of honey will quench your thirst almost immediately. Our mineral tea blend can help with replenishing your electrolytes and it is a good substitute for iced tea. Another product that is really interesting is called “Cell Food.” It is a concentrate of trace minerals, amino acids and other things, but it also helps with energy and alertness because it literally breaks the bonds of water and releases the oxygen. No need for caffeine and other stimulants.
Jonathan
Brew a pot of summer helpers
One last suggestion for the summer months: make some chamomile, peppermint and ginger teas (separately), then put the teas into ice cube trays and freeze. These can be used for a variety of things, such as adding a different flavor to summer drinks by adding the peppermint ice cubes, or helping an upset stomach using the mint, chamomile or the ginger. The chamomile can also be used on sunburn to cool and soothe the skin. There are lots of uses for these simple herbal gifts.
— Jonathan
Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx: Jonathan Evans via email at herbarium258@gmail.com, or by regular mail to: The Herbarium, 264 Exchange St., Chicopee, Mass. 01013. If requesting additional information from Evans, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
