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Page 67
stance, which explains many of its uses. It can be used externally as a lotion for infected wounds, but also internally for respiratory and digestive infections. It may be use as a gargle in laryngitis and tonsillitis, easing sore throats and soothing irritable coughs. It is an excellent cough remedy, producing expectoration and reducing unnecessary spasm. It may be used in bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. A warm infusion is beneficial in headache and to promote perspiration.
Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 2 tsp. of the dried herb and let infuse for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 3 times a day. Tincture: Take 1/2 tsp. 3 times a day.
Vitex (Chasteberry): Vitex agnus-castus
Part used: The fruit.
Actions: Hormonal normalizer.
Indications: Vitex or chasteberry has the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially the progesterone function. It may be called an amphoteric remedy, as it can produce apparently opposite effects, though in truth it is simply normalizing. It has, for instance, a reputation as both an aphrodisiac and an anaphrodisiac! It will usually enable what is appropriate to occur. The greatest use of vitex lies in normalizing the activity of female sex hormones and it is thus indicated for dysmenorrhea, premenstrual stress and other disorders related to hormone function. It is especially beneficial during menopausal changes. In a similar way it may be used to aid the body to regain a natural balance after the use of the birth control pill.
Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1 tsp. of the ripe berries and leave to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink 3 times a day. Tincture: Take 1/4 tsp. 3 times a day.

 
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