#Herbal Efficacy

[akel-hair-transplant]

Over-the-Counter Drugs and Herbal Products

Introduction:Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and herbal products have become increasingly popular as they offer convenient solutions for various health concerns without the need for a doctor’s prescription. However, while they provide ease of access, it’s essential to understand their benefits, limitations, and potential risks. This article delves into the world of OTC drugs and herbal products. 1.…

[800-dick-pics]

thinkin of putting together an herbal mut aid thing but i also have BIG feelings abt ppl not understanding how herbalism is done safely and not just "snake oil" and ppl advocating that ingesting essential oils will fix autism or cure cancer.

Like i wanna offer low cost herbalism and birth work services to disabled ppl of color and pregnant people of color but its like, Theres so much equipment i need and there are things i just cant do at a large scale without them.

[newsepick]

Traditional Chinese medicine shows potential in cancer treatment

Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, with current treatments often resulting in significant side effects and resistance. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly an herbal extract called Huaier, shows promise as an adjunct cancer therapy, boasting multitarget effects and minimal side effects. Huaier’s active polysaccharides have demonstrated antitumor properties, enhancing chemotherapy efficacy and reducing toxicity. While in-vitro and in-vivo studies highlight its potential across various cancer types, further research is required to clarify its mechanisms and validate its safety and efficacy in larger clinical trials.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Herbal Remedies

References (Capsules & Powders; Compresses & Lotions; Creams; Decoctions; Infused Oils; Infusions; Ointments; Poultices; Syrups; Tinctures; Tonic Wines; Other Preparations)

CAPSULES & POWDERS

Powdered herbs are most easily taken as capsules but can be sprinkled on food or taken with water.

Externally, they can be applied as a dusting powder to the skin or mixed with tinctures as a poultice.

COMPRESSES & LOTIONS

Lotions are water-based herbal preparations such as infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures that are used to bathe inflamed or irritated skin.

Compresses are cloths soaked in a lotion and held against the skin.

Both are simple ways to use herbs externally and can be very effective in relieving swelling, bruising, and pain, soothing inflammation and headaches, and cooling fevers.

CREAMS

Making a cream involves combining oil or fat and water in an emulsion. If the process is rushed, the oil and water may separate.

Unlike ointments, creams blend with the skin and have the advantage of being cooling and soothing while at the same time allowing the skin to breathe and sweat naturally.

They can, however, deteriorate quite quickly and are best stored in dark, airtight jars in a refrigerator.

DECOCTIONS

Roots, bark, twigs, and berries usually require a more forceful treatment than leaves or flowers to extract their medicinal constituents. A decoction involves simmering these tougher parts in boiling water.

Fresh or dried plant material may be used and should be cut or broken into small pieces before decocting. Like infusions, decoctions can be taken hot or cold.

INFUSED OILS

Infusing an herb in oil allows its active, fat-soluble ingredients to be extracted; hot infused oils are simmered, while cold infused oils are heated naturally by the sun.

Both types of oil can be used externally as massage oils or added to creams and ointments.

Infused oil should not be confused with essential oil, which is an active constituent naturally present in a plant and has specific medicinal properties and a distinct aroma.

Essential oil may be added to an infused oil to increase its medicinal efficacy

INFUSIONS

An infusion is the simplest way to prepare the more delicate aerial parts of plants, especially leaves and flowers, for use as a medicine or as a revitalizing or relaxing drink.

It is made in a similar way to tea, using either a single herb or a combination of herbs, and may be drunk hot or cold.

OINTMENTS

Ointments contain oils or fats heated with herbs and, unlike creams, contain no water. As a result, ointments form a separate layer on the surface of the skin.

They protect against injury or inflammation of damaged skin and carry active medicinal constituents, such as essential oils, to the affected area.

Useful in conditions such as hemorrhoids or where protection is needed from moisture, as in chapped lips and diaper rash.

POULTICES

A poultice is a mixture of fresh, dried, or powdered herbs that is applied to an affected area.

Used to ease nerve or muscle pains, sprains, or broken bones, and to draw pus from infected wounds, ulcers, or boils.

SYRUPS

Honey and unrefined sugar are effective preservatives.

Can be combined with infusions or decoctions to make syrups and cordials.

They have the additional benefit of having a soothing action, and therefore make a perfect vehicle for cough mixtures as well as relieving sore throats.

With their sweet taste, syrups can disguise the taste of unpalatable herbs and are therefore greatly appreciated by children.

TINCTURES

Tinctures are made by soaking an herb in alcohol. This encourages the active plant constituents to dissolve, giving tinctures a relatively stronger action than infusions or decoctions.

They are convenient to use and last up to 2 years.

Tinctures can be made using a jug and a jelly bag, instead of a wine press. Although mainly used in European, American, and Australian herbal medicine, tinctures play a part in most herbal traditions.

TONIC WINES

Tonic wines are an agreeable way to take strengthening and tonic herbs to increase vitality and improve digestion.

Neither strictly medicinal, nor simply appealing to the palate, they are easy to prepare at home.

Made by steeping tonic herbs in red or white wine for several weeks.

OTHER PREPARATIONS

Steam Inhalations

Steam inhalations are an effective way to clear congestion and relieve sinusitis, hay fever, and bronchial asthma.

The combination of steam and antiseptic ingredients clears the airways throughout the respiratory system.

Gargles & Mouthwashes

Gargles and mouthwashes usually contain astringent herbs, which tighten the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.

As gargles and mouthwashes are made from infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures, they can generally be swallowed for internal treatment. Ensure you do not exceed the daily internal dose of an herb.

Pessaries & Suppositories

Pessaries and suppositories are waxy pellets containing essential oil or fine powder.

They are used when oral medicine is likely to be broken down during digestion before reaching its intended site.

Pessaries are inserted into the vagina and suppositories into the anus, where they melt at body temperature.

The herb is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing fast relief. It is best to buy ready-made suppositories.

Essential Oils

Essential oils can be used in massage to soothe minor aches and pains.

Before use, they should be diluted with a carrier oil as they can irritate the skin.

Essential oils deteriorate rapidly after dilution, so it is best to mix small quantities as you need them.

Baths & Skin Washes

Herbal baths and skin washes can relieve many conditions, including aching limbs and stuffy sinuses.

They are made from diluted essential oils or infusions.

Eyebaths soothe sore, inflamed, or irritated eyes.

Cold Macerations

Heat destroys the active constituents of some herbs.

Thus, a cold maceration might be more appropriate than a decoction.

Juices

The juices extracted from many herbs.

Can be taken internally or applied externally.

Source

[livingwellnessblog]

How can we talk about herbal medicine: The “West is Right” Model  of Herbal Medicine 

Explore the rich landscape of herbal medicine and its efficacy, drawing from both traditional wisdom and modern research. Discover the intricate balance between cultural practices, scientific evidence, and safety considerations in herbal remedies. From th

How can we talk about herbal medicine: The “West is Right” Model  of Herbal Medicine  There is a wide range of herbal remedies that have been used for centuries and many have shown varying degrees of effectiveness for certain conditions. However, the documented herbal medicine, traditional medicine, efficacy of herbal remedies, West Is Right model, scientific evidence, placebo effect,…

[codbrand]

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This capsule is a herbal product that has many benefits and is suitable to overcome various diseases such as:

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Helps to maintain Stamina that makes people Live Longer.

With a complex of traditional herbs MontaliN advanced bioactives target both structure and function of natural joint motion to help balance out joint stressors, daily wear and tear, and the “overworking” of an active lifestyle so even morning stiffness goes unnoticed.

Comes in sachets, 4 capsules per sachet,???? Will be send first class flat as a letter with original box folded.

[mellifexfarm]

News

My flock has contracted Marek's Disease.

Since 2019, after I brought home Lyra and Wren, my flock has been a closed flock. Meaning I take biosecurity very seriously, and opted to not bring any new chickens in or allow other poultry-keepers access to the yard where they are kept. The only birds that were added from 2019 until now have been from hatching eggs. There are a select few diseases that can pass from mother to egg, but not Marek's.

But within the past few weeks one chicken displayed symptoms of leg weakness and became unable to walk. I brought them indoors and started treating for vitamin deficiency, since that is by far the most common cause of sudden lameness in poultry. But she didn't get better, and then Lyra started walking unsteadily, and I knew something else was wrong. I suspected something was wrong with my feed and sent off a sample to get tested for mycotoxins, and switched feeds, because I know a lot of people have had issues with that lately. But then one morning I found Moss deceased in the coop, and it all kind of went downhill from there.

Sebrights are known for having extremely low resistance to disease. They are very inbred. It is the reason I lost Kip to fowl pox when everyone else recovered fine. And why all but one (her unnamed cockerel "emo" son) of the members of my flock who are descended from Lyra are affected. But none of the other tiny breeds I have, Seramas or Kikirkis, are known for being particularly disease resistant either. So. I am extremely cautious at jumping the gun and saying they wont be effected.

I sent off Moss's body for a necropsy on monday and got the results today, September 29th.

I do not know how this got into my flock. Our nextdoor neighbor got chickens a few months ago, but our birds don't have any direct contact. That is the only way I can think of.

There is a vaccine but it can only be administered to day old chicks. Vaccinating to prevent this was not an option.

It generally takes 4-10 weeks for the disease to develop after the chicken has been exposed, so it had to have been fairly recent. My flock has not been carrying this sub-clinically.

I genuinely don't know how this is going to go from here. There is no treatment for marek's disease. It is a virus. I have ordered a few herbal remedies with vague studies to back up some kind of efficacy helping reduce the damage the virus does and boost their immunity, but its mostly a crapshoot. The only good news I have with all this is that older birds are somewhat less likely to succumb to this disease. And the fact turkies and pigeons can't contract it.

The only birds displaying symptoms right now are Lyra, and Moss's unnamed pullet daughter.

Lyra is tentatively okay. I have crafted a sling for her, and she has been increasing in mobility over the last few days. She did not ever have full paralysis, so I am hopeful. Her daughter and Mouse, one of the younger keep-back pullets from this summers chicks, are the only casualties so far.

I'll be doing all that I can in terms of supportive care, but if any symptomatic birds get to the point I don't think they will recover from I will be euthanizing them. I will not be selling chickens anymore.

This disease has been a nightmare of mine for such a long time and now it is really happening. I am pretty crushed.

[lizhly-writes]

@tiercell @allofthebeanz @kallisto-k tadaaaa here you go. continuing directly off this.

.

“I’m dead,” Mu Qingfang thought to himself.

To anyone who knew about this properties of this flower, the color of it was far too intense to indicate a casual relationship between shidi and shixiong, even if that shixiong happened to be shidi’s favorite shixiong.  

As it was, Shang Qinghua was essentially wearing a blatant declaration of Mu Qingfang’s feelings.

Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.  It wasn’t as if everyone was skilled in herbalism enough to 1) recognize the flower 2) remember all the stories about it.  Even Mu Qingfang hadn’t initially remembered the feelings thing, and anyway, the feelings thing had never been fully tested out.  It wasn’t necessarily true, and even if it was true, people wouldn't automatically assume that it was Mu Qingfang who had given the flower to Shang Qinghua.

Except all it took was one person to remember about the flower’s properties to spread it to everyone else.  Except Mu Qingfang was the only person on the peak who was raising this flower.  

Everyone on Qian Cao would know.

Maybe if he took the flower back?  He could take the flower back.  Say something about how he was worried about if it really worked, what about possible side effects, on second thought, he didn’t actually want Shang Qinghua to test it out.  

Mu Qingfang looked at Shang Qinghua.  Shang Qinghua looked -- pleased.  He had gently brought one hand up to the flowers in his hair, one corner of his mouth turned up.  “Nobody’s ever given me flowers before, haha,” he said. “Does it look good?”

What was Mu Qingfang supposed to say?  Was he seriously supposed to snatch it back right now?  Did he have the heart for that kind of thing?

“It looks good,” Mu Qingfang choked out.  He cleared his throat. “Now, if we could test the efficacy of it--”

If Mu Qingfang could say he fucked up, then he could replace it with another steel-stemmed snapdragon.  If he avoided skin contact, the color change should be much more minimal and well within the bounds of friendship.

“I’m sure Mu-shidi did a good job,” Shang Qinghua said.

Mu Qingfang would be warmed by Shang Qinghua’s confidence in him any other time but now.

“I really do have to check,” Mu Qingfang tried desperately.

Shang Qinghua shrugged.  “Well, if Mu-shidi insists,” he said, and before Mu Qingfang could feel relieved about it, Shang Qinghua pulled a knife out from his boot, rolled up a sleeve, and tested the blade on his skin.

Nothing happened.  Shang Qinghua remained entirely uninjured, because Mu Qingfang actually did do a good job at confusing the steel-stemmed snapdragon, which meant Mu Qingfang had absolutely no reason to remove that bright red love confession from Shang Qinghua’s head.

“See?” Shang Qinghua said.  “Mu-shidi really did do a good job.”

“I suppose so,” Mu Qingfang said, feeling like he was dying.

[songsofbloodandwater]

I'm surprised I haven't see anyone mention something like this online but in my experience, plant's seasonality is not just biological, it's spiritual aswell. It seems people are so used to almost every spice and herb being available to them from a supermarket year-round, and so disconnected from their living plant form, that they call on the aid of any herbal ally at any time of the year and expect the same answer, and the same potency. When, in my experience, that doesn't make any sense.

Some plants are stronger than others in particular times of the year. Some are effective year-round. Some only step up to aid when there's a need for them, under very specific circumstances relating to you and your specific situation at the time. One herbal spirit may be my ally for the summer, and another in the winter, for the exact same purpose. Except one of them is readily available (out in the field, and also spiritually awake and willing to work) during the season that the other isn't. Evergreen plants are great for a number of reasons, one of them being how they're available all year round and to me, that means their Spirits can also help us all year round.

Plant spirits can be reawakened out of season, sure, but in my experience their efficacy is not as great. The amount of effort you put into that reawakening will directly translate into the potency you obtain, and it probably still won't be as good as a plant spirit in season. Simple because the latter is a spirit that has adapted to work and succeed in that environment. The out-of-season plant spirit likely hasn't.

[serpentface]

so sorry if youve talked about this before, but what is hidije? (mentioned as something Palo ysed as epilepsy treatment in the past). And id love to hear anything else about traditional medications/drugs used in this universe in general!

It's an alchemical Concoction that has fine particles of silver as a core ingredient (which is widely believed in the region to have broad purifying qualities) along with ground black pearl (specifically thought to ward off curses and evil spirits). This is why prolonged use can result in a form of argyria.

Epilepsy is at least understood as originating within the brain, so attempted treatments mostly target the head and are often the same treatments used for migraines. The two other main components of hidije are a type of willow bark (which can relieve headaches), and the leaf of the hidijenum tree (which has some sedative effects). Other herbal and medicinal components may be added as needed for the individual patient. The ingredients are boiled in wine and consumed in small doses on a regular basis.

In Wardi medical theory, the silver and pearl are spiritually purifying agents that may weaken the evil spirits that cause epilepsy (as well as most forms of disease), while the willow bark and hidijenum leaf treat the physical damage and improper bloodflow to the brain that these spirits cause. This condition is permanent and the spirits cannot be fully expelled, but regular treatment will weaken them and assist the body's natural self-purification processes, and thus should reduce the frequency of seizures.

No component of hidije is an actual anticonvulsant, and there are no direct and efficacious treatments available for epilepsy, just mitigation methods. Hidije consumption may provide a degree of physical comfort and relaxation via its sedative qualities, and (aside from argyria when used for many years) does not have harmful effects in typical doses and frequencies. Overuse can result in physical dependency on the sedative hidijenum, especially in more expensive forms of hidije in which the plant matter is alchemically refined.

---

Traditional medicine in Imperial Wardin is a very broad body of knowledge and folk belief. The underlying theory is related to other cultural applications of body taboo/spiritual pollution/curses, and supplemented by a degree of rigorous medical scholarship in the region (which peaked during the reign of the 3rd Burri Empire).

The core conceit is:

The body and spirit exist in a natural balance. The spirit physically inhabits the blood, and its proper flow through the body ensures normal bodily functions. The body is constantly bombarded by sources of pollution and has some internal defenses (healthy blood is a purifying agent, spitting can expel minor evil spirits, curses, and wandering ghosts invited by invocation via speech, and urination is the body expelling day to day spiritual impurities). However, the body is highly vulnerable and must be protected from uncontrolled metaphysical vulnerability in order to avoid curses and spiritual pollution. When cursed or spiritually polluted, the flow of spirit/blood is interrupted (either systemically or to certain points in the body), which can cause physical ailments (as well as more spiritual concerns). There are several kinds of evil spirit in the world, one of which causes disease. These are called dagia. They feed on the spirit in blood as tiny, invisible parasites, which can result in various ailments and contagious disease, depending on how much of the blood is infected and where pure blood flow is interrupted. Infection is much likelier when metaphysically vulnerable/polluted, but their entrance of the body is physical and occurs through orifices and wounds. Systemic infections by dagia result in contagious disease. Lifelong afflictions such as epilepsy are generally caused by dagia entering the body while in the womb (especially via the mother having been cursed), and permanently sealed into one's very being during the exceptionally metaphysically vulnerable moment of birth. Therefore, the dagia cannot be truly expelled, but may be subdued and restrained through proper treatment. (By this same virtue, a central part of any midwife's job is to dispel any curses on the infant, ensure its immediate purification, and magically shield it during its vulnerable period. Wealthier mothers may hire priestesses devoted specifically to this practice)

Diseases are both spiritual and physical in nature and thus require both spiritual and physical treatment (the lines between the two are not always well defined). In Hidije, the ingestion of silver is purely spiritual- it's not thought to act directly on the body but to purify the spirit. The willow bark and hidijenum are thought to (and do) interact directly on the body, and to help heal physical damage caused by the interruption of pure blood flow.

Treatments are a wide range of herbalism and other traditional medicines (animal parts are used as well and have a litany of ascribed benefits), strict cleanliness regiments (which double as spiritual purification), and dietary regimines. Bloodletting is used to remove bad blood polluted by dagia at certain points in the body in the case of serious infection (this is distinct from the ritual bloodletting used in prayer, which is an offering of one's pure blood/spirit. Dagia infested blood is an impure substance). A treatment similar in form (though not very similar in theory) to acupuncture is used to gently treat the blood in less dire circumstances, or as a preventative measure.

All this combined results in treatments that range widely between those that would be supported by evidence based medicine, those with ambiguous/no effect, and those that actively make things worse. All in all this system is not wildly effective but has its benefits, and is far from the worst medical system for the setting.

Main strengths

The dagia disease model understands the physical entry of disease into the body (while not directly conceptualizing microbes), leading to safer handling of infectious disease (even including barrier methods protecting the nose and mouth when in proximity to illness).

Many of its treatments are based in direct evidence, acquired both via longstanding cultural knowledge and more recent medical experimentation. This system is fluid and methods of treatment are readily reshaped when confronted with new knowledge (though not the core theoretical elements, which are rooted in religious belief and change on a more gradual scale).

As with herbalism in general, many of the herbal elements have direct physical effects on the body and may be beneficial (willow bark really does have mild pain relief properties, etc).

Wound-cleaning is understood as of utmost import (a wound is more vulnerable than orifices to the entrance of evil spirits, as it directly exposes the blood). Strong alcohol and vinegar is used to clean wounds and avoid infection (not the absolute best method, but one of the better available in this setting).

alchemy (as a form of proto-chemistry) exists and is effective enough to isolate and concentrate naturally occurring compounds with beneficial elements (ie salicylic acid from plants can be refined into a smaller and stronger doses than can be acquired in direct consumption of plant matter) (there's also some pretty damn strong drugs available by the same virtue, mostly in the form of opioids and stimulants).

Physical parasites are generally well understood (though infections by microscopic parasites will be assumed to be dagia).

[thedustybunny]

Chamomile kisses - Chapter 2

Viktor X Fem!Reader (1200+ words)

Enemies to friends to lovers

The following morning, you gathered your courage and headed back to the clinic, hoping to catch Viktor before he disappeared into his lab. As you walked down the corridor, your heart raced, unsure of how he would react to your presence this time.

Spotting him up ahead, you quickened your pace to catch up. "Viktor!" you called out, your voice a mix of eagerness and caution.

He turned to face you, his expression colder than you could have anticipated. The icy stare he gave you was a stark contrast to the warmth he had initially displayed. Silence hung heavy in the air as you struggled to find the right words to bridge the gap.

"Good morning," you finally managed, the words coming out more awkwardly than you intended.

Viktor's response was a disdainful glance, his lips curling into a sardonic smile.

"I wanted to talk about yesterday," you ventured, your voice slightly shaky.

Viktor's chuckle was laced with a hint of mockery. "Ah, the herbologist returns. What could you possibly have to say that would interest me?"

You pressed on, determined to understand. "I'm genuinely confused about what changed between our initial conversation and the end. I’d like to clear the air."

Viktor's tone dripped with condescension. "Clear the air? How quaint. Tell me, (y/n), do you genuinely believe in those herbs of yours? Or is it simply an amusing exercise in delusion?"

You took a deep breath, your frustration simmering beneath the surface. "I‘ve seen the positive effects of natural remedies. They work and they can complement conventional medicine."

His laughter was sharp, devoid of any real amusement. "Complement? Your 'remedies' are nothing more than a weak placebo. A distraction for those who are unwilling to embrace proven methods."

You tried to hold his gaze, your patience waning. "There's scientific evidence that supports the efficacy of herbal treatments."

Viktor's eyes bore into yours, his expression unyielding. "Evidence? Spare me the pseudoscience, (y/n). Don't mistake anecdotal stories for real progress."

With those final, hurtful words, Viktor turned and walked away, leaving you standing there, a mix of hurt, frustration, and a fiery determination to prove him wrong coursing through your veins. As he disappeared from view once again, you couldn't shake the cold feeling left by his snarky remarks. Determined to rise above his skepticism, you would let your work speak for itself, determined to prove that there was value in the path you had chosen.

Shaking off the remnants of the cold exchange, you embraced the promise of a new day in the clinic. The once vast laboratory had been transformed to incorporate a cozy room, with a counter positioned up front. This was where your clinic would welcome customers, a haven of shelves laden with an assortment of natural remedies, including an array of medicinal herbs like teas, oils, sprays, and various concoctions. The day was a whirlwind of interactions with a steady stream of customers seeking advice and purchasing your meticulously crafted medicines.

In the midst of the busy day, a well-dressed customer approached, intrigued by a particular oil blend. "Excuse me, could you recommend something for stress relief? I've heard great things about your remedies."

You smiled warmly, happy to share your expertise. "Certainly. Our Lavender Harmony Oil is a popular choice for relaxation. Its soothing scent can help ease stress and promote a sense of calm."

As the conversation continued, you couldn't help but be gratified by the positive impact your remedies were having on people's lives. This fulfilling endeavor was quickly shaping into a passion you hadn't foreseen.

The evening sun dipped below the horizon, prompting you to start winding down for the day. Packing up your belongings, you glanced at the clock, realizing it was nearly 10:30. You were determined to leave before encountering Viktor, whose presence had become a source of discomfort.

Just as you were about to exit, the door swung open, revealing Jayce. A brief smile graced your lips as you greeted him.

"Hey there, y/n)" Jayce said, returning the smile. "How was your first day?"

You recounted the encounter with Viktor, the surprise evident on Jayce's face. He tried to offer excuses, defending Viktor's character. "He really is a good person at heart, you know… Sometimes he can be a bit grumpy due to his leg pain” he gave you a hopeful smile, seeing you unconvinced he continued, ”… or maybe from overworking himself again, it’s not unusual for him to disregard everything to keep working. Please don't take his words too much to heart. I don’t know what could’ve got him to be like that but that’s not what he’s really like"

You sighed, appreciating Jayce's attempt to defend his friend. "Thank you, Jayce. I'll keep that in mind."

After a moment of conversation, you said goodbye to Jayce and headed home, the weight of the day's events still lingering.

As you walked through the university halls, your footsteps echoing, you suddenly heard the distinct click of a cane behind you. Your heart skipped a beat as you realized it was Viktor, once again making his exit. The rhythmic sound seemed to echo in the corridor, a reminder of the enigmatic figure who continued to both intrigue and unsettle you.

Summoning your courage, you turned around, "Viktor," you called out, your voice carrying a genuine attempt at friendliness.

He stopped and faced you, his expression a mixture of irritation and impatience. "What is it now?" he asked.

You pressed on, undeterred by his tone. "I just wanted to say that I hope we can move past our previous misunderstanding. I’m hoping we can get along in the future, and maybe even become friends."

Viktor's response was a sarcastic chuckle. "Ah, the herbologist with a heart of gold, trying to bridge the gap between science and nonsense."

You were taken aback by his bitterness, but you refused to let it deter you. "It's not nonsense, Viktor. Natural remedies have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. There's a reason they persist."

He rolled his eyes, his patience clearly wearing thin. "If you believe in that drivel, be my guest. But don't expect me to see it any differently. I don’t see us becoming friends."

Before you could respond, he turned away, his footsteps echoing down the hallway. You watched him go, feeling further frustrated by his actions.

As you observed him walking ahead, something caught your attention. Today, unlike yesterday, you noticed a subtle discomfort in his movements – a slight hitch in his step that hadn't been there before. Despite the frustration he stirred within you, a pang of empathy washed over you. But you held your tongue, allowing him to exit before you.

The exchange left you with a whirlwind of emotions, a volatile mix of disdain and an unexpected spark of something deeper. It was as if your feelings toward him had taken on a duality – a complex blend of both hate and an inexplicable attraction. As you made your way home, you couldn't help but acknowledge the paradoxical nature of your emotions, wondering how this enigmatic man had managed to evoke such conflicting sentiments within you.

[akel-hair-transplant]

Over-the-Counter Drugs and Herbal Products

Introduction:Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and herbal products have become increasingly popular as they offer convenient solutions for various health concerns without the need for a doctor’s prescription. However, while they provide ease of access, it’s essential to understand their benefits, limitations, and potential risks. This article delves into the world of OTC drugs and herbal…

[hoursofreading]

Herbal baths were given to relax the expectant mother during the later months.35 Documentary evidence suggests that women were encouraged to give birth in a sitting or squatting position. They were encouraged to do breathing exercises for labor, much as they are today, but there was no pain relief beyond opiates such as poppy seeds or infusions made of tansy, parsley, mint, cress, willow leaves and seeds, ivy, birthwort, or the bark of the white poplar. Instead, women relied on the protection of female saints such as St. Margaret of Antioch, to whom they would offer prayers of supplication. Westminster Abbey owned a precious relic, the girdle of the Virgin Mary, which was sometimes lent to queens and high-ranking women, so that they could tie it around themselves in labor, for it was believed to be of special efficacy at such times; and there were girdles of other saints with similar miraculous properties.36 Sometimes a prayer on a long scroll of parchment would be wrapped around the mother as a “birth girdle.”37 Despite all these practices, many women would have suffered the unmitigated pain of natural labor.

Elizabeth of York: A Tudor Queen and Her World (Weir, Alison)

[delightingintragedy]

Charms for Illness and Plague from The Charmers' Psalter by Gemma Gary

For Illness in General:

"The Abracadabra charm may be inscribed in ink upon parchment or paper to be worn as a charm against illness. Enclosed in a black silken bag, it is also a potent charm against witchcraft and evil influences.

In the working of curative magic at a distance, the charmer may also employ the Abracadabra charm by writing it out in the usual manner, and scratching a line away with a new knife, kept for the purpose, each day with the following words:

"As I destroy the letters of this charm, Abracadabra, so, by virtue of this sacred name, may all grief and dolour depart from (name) in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. In the Name of the Father I destroy this disease, in the Name of the Son I destroy this disease, in the Name of the Holy Ghost I destroy this disease. Amen.""

Against Epidemics:

"God the Lord went over the land; ninety sicknesses came from the sand. Said the Lord to the ninety sick: 'whither go ye? Answer me quick.' Then said the ninety of the sand: 'to take men's health we walk the land. To hurt their limbs and fester their skin, to shake them well without and within.' Then spake the Lord: 'to the elder-bush go that grows where the healing waters flow; see that ye do this thing just now, and ullthe bush down bough for bough. Name the diseases ye bring from the sand. Leave God the Lord to walk the land."

Witches' Herb-Gathering Charms:

"The first charm is to be used in the gathering of any herb for magical healing purposes, it may also be sung during the preparation of herbal healing substances to increase their efficacy. The second is to be spoken in gathering the herb pimpernel for uses against witchcraft, and the third is a gathering charm for vervain.

"Hail to thee, holy herb, growing on the ground, all on Mount Calvary first wast thou found. Thou art good for many sores, and healeth many a wound; in the name of St. Jesus! I take thee from the ground."

"Herb pimpernel I have thee found, growing upon Christ Jesus' ground; the same gift the Lord Jesus gave unto thee, when He shed his blood upon the tree. Arise up, pimpernel, and go with me, and God bless me, and all that shall wear thee. Amen."

"All-hele, thou holy herb, Vervain, growing on the ground; In the Mount of Calvary there was thou found; thou helpest many a grief, and staunchest many a wound. In the name of sweet Jesus I take thee from the ground. O Lord, effect the same that I do now go about. In the name of God, on Mount Olivet first I thee found; in the name of Jesus I pull thee from the ground."

To Hasten the Healing of the Sick:

Recite Psalm 41:

"Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness. I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee. Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish? And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it. All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt. An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more. Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them. By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me. And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen."

[alchemyofazeroth]

Orcish Contributions to Alchemy

Orcish medicine, while often overlooked by mainstream scholars, has made significant contributions to the study and practice of alchemy. Orcish healers have long possessed an intricate understanding of the medicinal and alchemical properties of various herbs, fungi, and other natural substances native to the harsh environments they inhabit.

By carefully harvesting, preparing, and combining these ingredients according to ancient recipes passed down through generations, they are able to concoct a wide array of potent elixirs, salves, and potions. These medicines are highly sought after not only for their efficacy in treating a broad spectrum of ailments and injuries among orcs, but also for their potential applications in alchemical research.

Traditional Orcish Healing Methods in Alchemy

Shamans employ a wide range of herbal remedies derived from the flora of Azeroth, carefully harvested and prepared according to ancient recipes passed down through generations. These medicinal concoctions are often imbued with mystical properties through ritual blessings and incantations. Alongside herbal treatments, shamans utilize spiritual practices such as drumming, chanting, and trance-inducing dances to communicate with ancestral spirits, seeking their guidance and intervention in the healing process. The Orcs' reverence for the elemental forces is reflected in their use of totems, each attuned to a specific element, to focus and channel restorative energies.

Orcish ethnomedicine also places great emphasis on preventive care, promoting healthy living through proper nutrition, physical training, and mental discipline. This holistic approach to well-being is deeply ingrained in the warrior culture of the Orcs, fostering resilience and strength in both body and spirit. Through their mastery of the healing arts and their attunement to the primal forces of the world, Orcish shamans play a vital role in maintaining the health and vitality of the Horde.

Orcish remedies have been found to exhibit fascinating and unexpected synergistic effects when combined with more conventionally-used alchemical reagents. This has opened up new avenues of inquiry and experimentation for alchemists willing to draw upon this body of indigenous medicinal knowledge. As interest in this field grows, it holds great promise for yielding valuable new insights and innovations at the intersection of herbalism, medicine, and alchemical science.

Orcish Metallurgy

The orcish contributions to the field of metallurgy are sometimes overlooked but nonetheless significant. Orcish blacksmiths developed advanced techniques for crafting high-quality steel as early as the First War, utilizing innovative methods of smelting iron ore with charcoal in stone blast furnaces to produce a crude form of pig iron. This pig iron was then further refined through a process of decarburization in clay-lined hearths, allowing much of the excess carbon to burn off. The resulting product was a malleable yet strong steel that the orcs used to forge formidable weapons and armor.

Orcish smiths also perfected the art of pattern welding, repeatedly folding and hammering together steel and iron to create resilient blades with distinctive swirling and mottled patterns. These metalworking techniques, pioneered by the orcs, influenced neighboring cultures and spread across the continent, leading to advances in weaponry and armor that would shape the course of history.

Though their contributions are often eclipsed by those of elves and dwarves in the popular imagination, the technical innovations of orcish blacksmiths have left an indelible mark on the evolution of metallurgy.

[livingwellnessblog]

How can we talk about herbal medicine: The “West is Right” Model  of Herbal Medicine 

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