Green Child Magazine Summer 2015 | Page 61

antifungal, antibacterial and for its ability to stop bleeding), calendula (a wonderful wound healing herb, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties), lemon balm (for tension, restlessness and irritability) and nettles (a great antihistamine and a must have for spring tonics). Start with these five herbs, some organic jojoba, coconut, olive or almond oil, self-sealing tea bags, a glass pot or teapot to heat water and you have a great starter kit for herbal healing. Five simple herbs may not seem like much but that is one of the wonders of plant medicine. One herb can have several constituents that make it effective for several conditions or ailments. Instead of taking a handful of pills every day, imagine having a cup of herbal tea instead! The more you learn, the more you’ll add as you see what works best for your family and what you can do without. Have Fun! Above all else, have fun with compiling your plant medicine chest. Find local wild crafting experts and take your children on a nature walk and pick your own plants and herbs. Get your children in the kitchen for a nightly ritual of making homemade chamomile tea. Start your own herb garden. You can do this in minimal space and it makes a wonderful family project. If you start them early and make it fun, you will be giving your children a lifetime of healthy living and family traditions to pass on for generations to come. 61