The Complete Herbal Guide: A Natural Approach to Healing the Body - Heal Your Body Naturally and Maintain Optimal Health Using Alternative Medicine, Herbals, Vitamins, Fruits and Vegetables Read Free

cause mental drowsiness unless taken in large doses. Nevertheless, it is best to use caution until you know the extent of its effects on you. The benefits are often noticeable within weeks, but some people notice improvement after as little as a week. People who have had dystonic reactions from antipsychotic drugs or who have Parkinson’s disease, as case reports indicate that kava may interfere with dopamine, should not use kava.
     
    People taking benzodiazepine such as Valium should only take kava under the strict guidance of a qualified professional.
    Valerian
    Valerian is an herbal tranquilizer that is best known as a remedy for insomnia. It calms the nervous system, balances mood swings, and is not habit forming. One study found that it might have calming effects during stressful situations. It can be blended with other herbs such as hops or passionflower. Children, pregnant or nursing women, should not use Valerian.
     
    People with serious health conditions, or who are taking prescription drugs for mood or neurological disorders should consult a qualified professional before taking Valerian.
     
    Other herbs
     
              Chamomile
              Hops
              Lemon balm
              Passion flower
              Skullcap
              Suma
     
    These calming herbs are frequently recommended for anxiety.
     
    * * * * *

Athlete's Foot
     
    What is Athlete's Foot?
    Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection of the skin also known as Tinea pedis. In an acute flare-up, the skin of the foot is red or white with scales, cracks, inflammation, cuts, and blisters. There is itching, burning, and stinging. Most often, it occurs in between the toes. During an acute flare-up, secondary bacterial infection is common.
    In chronic athlete’s foot, the skin of the sides and sole of the foot is pink and scaly and there is no itchiness.
    The fungus lives off dead skin cells and thrives in warm, damp environments, such as the floors around gym locker rooms and indoor swimming pools.
    Athlete’s foot can sometimes be confused with these conditions
     
Dyshydrotic dermatitis (a type of eczema)
Allergic contact eczema (a type of eczema)
Atopic eczema (a type of eczema)
Psoriasis
Erythrasma
     
    When to see your medical doctor
There is swelling in your foot or leg and you develop a fever.
You notice an accumulation of pus in the blisters or cracks in your skin.
Your symptoms interfere with normal activity.
    Treatments
    The tinea fungus is contagious and once it takes hold, it can be quite tenacious, so it is important to take the following steps to prevent re-infection:
              Keep your feet thoroughly dry, especially between your toes.
              Wear cotton socks, and change your socks daily.
              Do not wear tight, closed-toe shoes. Moisture and heat cause athlete's foot fungus to thrive.
              Do not go barefoot in public places. Wear flip-flops.
              Use a foot powder to keep feet dry. Simple cornstarch makes a good foot dusting powder.
              Wash socks in the hot water setting of a washing machine.
     
    Herbs and Essential Oils
    Tea tree oil
    The most common natural treatment for athlete's foot is the essential oil tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). A home remedy works as well as over-the-counter foot medications. It has anti-fungal properties. Tea tree oil can be applied directly to the skin three times a day, covering the affected area. About 4 to 10 drops is sufficient. Continue for two weeks after the fungal infection seems to have disappeared to ensure that it is eradicated. Tea tree oil also helps with fungal infections of the nails.
     
    Tea tree oil can also be mixed with aloe vera gel. About 4 ounces of aloe vera gel to 1/2 teaspoon of tea tree oil can be combined in a spray bottle and applied twice daily. Allow the feet to dry before putting on footwear.
    Tea tree oil can be