HEALTH + WELLNESS
Botanical Healing CONT .
I source herbal medicines carefully . Most come from small independent organic farms who grow or ethically harvest herbs to manufacture our tinctures and oils using traditional methods . Where possible , I also make some tinctures and oils from herbs ethically wild-crafted here in Kent . Here at Apotheca , we use around 100 different herbs grown in the UK but there are also many medicinal plants , whose medicinal powers have not yet been harnessed . In time , I hope studies will prove them to be valuable for incorporation with our practice .
Environmental Issues
When talking about wild-crafting – whether for medicinal or culinary purposes – it ’ s important to keep it sustainable . For some plants , like nettles , this isn ’ t a concern but some plants do grow less easily , especially with the lack of wild meadows here in Kent , so it is worth thinking about before you get picking .
First and foremost , we at Apotheca only harvest what we need ; no more than that . Secondly , we would harvest only the parts we intend to use ( flowers , or leaves for example ) as opposed to the whole plant ( especially not the roots ) and only a proportion of those parts , so that the plant can continue to grow or thrive even after being harvested . Finally , we would only harvest a small proportion of a whole patch . So if the area has 100 wild garlic plants , we would only harvest a maximum of 20 plants , and not the whole of those 20 plants .
Apotheca ’ s Most Popular Remedy
One of our most popular remedies here at Apotheca , even before COVID but now more than ever , is an immune tonic made especially by us , with echinacea , wild garlic , elderberry , rosehip and blackcurrant .
Another popular remedy in our dispensary is a pain gel that we make in small batches . It has antiinflammatory , pain-relieving and healing properties thanks to the herbs and essential oils that it contains ; arnica , rosemary and wintergreen amongst others .
‘ Happy tummy ’ tea is also a hit with our customers . It ’ s a delicious mix of linden blossom , chamomile , fennel , liquorice and marshmallow . Great for children and adults alike , it settles tummy aches , bloating and wind ; the most common of the digestive complaints .
If You Were to Try One Thing
If you ’ re unsure about herbal medicine and need to be convinced , I would encourage anyone to try :
Arnica : Apply it topically to avoid or reduce bruising . It is an incredible remedy .
Lavender essential oil and aloe vera gel : Both these remedies work on small and superficial burns incredibly well . Remember that they all need to be applied very quickly after the injury for best results .
Slippery elm : The powder or capsules for heartburn or acid reflux give excellent relief .
Ginger , lemon , honey and sage : Combine in hot water when you have a sore throat , allow to cool a little and sip slowly for instant soothing .
Alternatively , pop in and we can blend a herbal tea especially for you ( one-off £ 10 fee to become registered ) based on your individual needs .
Milena Moore is a medical herbalist based at Apotheca , 14 West Street , Faversham , ME13 7JE .
www . apothecashop . co . uk
This article does not provide medical advice . It is intended for informational purposes only . It is not a substitute for professional medical advice , diagnosis or treatment . Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read in this article .
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