Uncommon Uses of Common Kitchen Herbs

REMOVAL OF SPLINTERS, THORNS, SLIVERS OF GLASS, REMAINING TICK PARTS:Rather than reaching for the tweezers or sterilized needle, here's a much gentler way to remove something that has embedded itself in the skin. Cover affected area with a piece of ripened banana peel (pulp side to skin); affix with surgical tape and leave on overnight. In the morning, the foreign material will have been drawn to the surface of the skin by the enzymes in the banana.

Deeply embedded material may need up to 3 nights treatment.

BLEMISHED SKINThe drawing enzymes in banana come to the rescue again! When my son was an adolescent he spread the pulp of a ripened mashed banana on his face overnight to clear his broken out skin.

BRUISES, BUMPS, SPRAINS AND STRAINSThe smelly yellow onion reduces inflammation, swelling and pain. Simply slice and apply to unbroken skin. Bind in place with surgical tape, a lightly applied elastic bandage or gauze.

BLEEDING CUTSI've never seen a more dramatic healing than the effect of powdered cayenne pepper on a cut that won't stop bleeding. Cover the affected area with the pht powdered cayenne (it does not burn!) and the bleeding will stop in 10 seconds!

HEADACHES, SINUS CONGESTION, NAUSEA, INDIGESTIONPeppermint is an extremely versatile healer. It can be used fresh or dried, prepared as a tea infusion (steep 1-2 teaspoons of the herb for 15-30 minutes). Alternatively, a single drop of the natural oil of peppermint in a cup of warm water produces a faster therapy. Either way, close your eyes while sipping and inhaling the aromatic properties of the herb because when peppermint is of good quality, it can sting the eyes.

MUSCLE ACHES FROM SPORTS OR GARDENING Adding a handful of powdered ginger to the bath water helps muscles to relax. Ginger is a powerful stimulator of circulation therefore those with heart stress or high blood pressure should not use it in the hot bath.

WATER RETENTIONIf PMS or salty food has left you feeling bloated, simmer a handful of flat-leafed parsley in a pint of water for 20 minutes or until reduced to one cup. Drink a cup 3-4 times throughout the day to help the body rid itself of the excess fluid.

BUG BITES AND STINGSThe lowly onion strikes again! To reduce the itch, inflammation and swelling of bug bites or stinging insects, apply a slice of yellow onion to the area. The itch from mosquito bites is relieved by rubbing the juicy, freshly cut surface of the onion on the area. Reapply as necessary.

SUNBURNStayed too long in the sun? Apply the inner gel of the aloe plant you should be keeping in your kitchen for kitchen burns. Or, soak in a cool bath to which you've added 2 cups apple cider vinegar. Plain, organic whole milk yogurt can soothe a burned face. Apply thickly, leaving on for 30-45 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

ENERGY DRAINOften an outing in the sun leaves us feeling drained of energy. Soaking in a peppermint bath will quickly revive you. Steep 4 tablespoons fresh or dried peppermint leaves in a quart of boiled water for 30 minutes. Strain, reserving leaves, adding tea to bath water. Wrap reserved leaves in a washcloth, binding closed with a rubber band. As you bathe, rub the peppermint filled cloth all over your body.

CLOGGED SKINGenerous applications of sunscreens can leave the skin feeling like it needs a good scrubbing. Combine a ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg with 1-2 tablespoons honey and apply to face for 20 minutes. Before removing with cool water, create a pulling sensation by tapping all over your face with your fingers. This stimulates circulation and makes your skin feel alive.