Handout for Herbal Syrups & Immune-Boosting Remedies
December 17 Class
Introduction to Vegetable Glycerine
- What is Vegetable Glycerine?
- A clear, sweet liquid derived from plant oils, such as coconut or palm oil.
- It acts as a solvent for extracting herbal constituents, especially for individuals sensitive to alcohol-based tinctures.
- Known for its humectant properties, which help retain moisture.
- Uses in Herbal Medicine
- Safe for human consumption and often used in syrups, lozenges, and tinctures.
- A great alternative for children or those avoiding alcohol.
- How Much to Use
- Typically, use a 60:40 ratio of glycerine to water for herbal extractions.
- For dried herbs, ensure they are fully covered by the liquid; for fresh herbs, ensure the ratio accounts for their moisture content.
- Extraction Time
- Glycerine tinctures should steep for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place. Shake daily to ensure even extraction.
- Safety
- Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Avoid using with certain sensitive medical conditions unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Supplies and Ingredients List for Herbal Syrup & Remedy Making
Supplies
- Glass Jars
- Mason jars (8 oz, 16 oz, or larger)
- Dark amber or blue glass bottles for storage (with droppers or caps)
- Cheesecloth or Fine Mesh Sieve
- For straining herbs and syrups.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- For precise measurements.
- Silicone Ice Cube Trays
- For making immune bombs.
- Funnels
- To transfer liquids into storage bottles.
- Small Saucepan
- For simmering syrups and mixtures.
- Labels and Marker
- To label your jars and bottles.
- Ladle or Pipette
- For transferring liquid remedies.
- Cutting Board and Knife
- For chopping fresh ingredients like garlic and onion.
- Mixing Bowls
- For combining ingredients.
- Gloves (Optional)
- For handling strong herbs like chili peppers.
- Plastic Wrap or Parafilm
- To wrap compresses or onion packs.
- Essential Oil Diffuser
- For steam inhalation or room diffusion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- Vegetable Glycerine
- Food-grade glycerine for herbal syrups.
- Raw Honey
- Unprocessed honey for syrups and remedies.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (With the Mother)
- For fire cider and immunity blends.
- Distilled Water
- For diluting and mixing.
- Olive Oil
- For garlic oil remedies.
Fresh Herbs and Foods
- Garlic Cloves
- For garlic honey and garlic oil.
- Onions
- For onion honey and compresses.
- Fresh Ginger Root
- For syrups and immune bombs.
- Fresh Horseradish
- For fire cider.
- Lemons
- For immune bombs and teas.
- Chili Peppers
- For fire cider (or cayenne powder as a substitute).
Dried Herbs
- Echinacea Root or Leaves
- For immune-boosting syrups.
- Elderberries
- For elderberry syrup.
- Rose Hips
- High in vitamin C, for immune syrups.
- Thyme, Rosemary, Sage
- For culinary and medicinal blends.
- Cayenne Powder
- For immune bombs or fire cider.
- Menthol Rub (Optional)
- Dr. Christopher’s Sen Sei rub for chest congestion.
Essential Oils for Diffusion
- Eucalyptus Oil
- For steam inhalation and congestion.
- Cinnamon Oil
- For warming blends.
- Clove Oil
- Antimicrobial properties.
- Orange Oil
- For calming and uplifting blends.
Optional Extras
- Rebounder or Jump Rope
- For lymphatic drainage.
- Dry Brushes
- For facial and body lymphatic drainage.
- Neti Pot
- For sinus rinsing.
Recipes for Glycerine Herbal Syrups
Echinacea Syrup
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried echinacea root (or 1.5 cups fresh echinacea root)
- 2 cups vegetable glycerine
- 1 cup distilled water
- Instructions:
- Combine glycerine and water in a clean mason jar.
- Add the dried echinacea root, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake daily.
- After steeping, strain through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar.
- Store in a dark glass bottle. Dosage: Take 1-2 teaspoons daily as an immune booster.
- Dosage: 1 teaspoon 3 times a day for immune support.
- When to Take:
- Morning (upon waking).
- Midday.
- Evening (before bed).
- Duration: Use for up to 7 days during acute illness or immune challenges. For prevention, take for 1 week, then pause for 2 weeks.
Immune-Boosting Herbal Syrup
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup elderberries
- 1/4 cup dried echinacea
- 1/4 cup dried rose hips
- 2 cups vegetable glycerine
- 1 cup distilled water
- Instructions:
- Mix glycerine and water in a clean jar.
- Add all herbs and stir well.
- Ensure the herbs are fully covered by the liquid.
- Seal and store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark bottle. Dosage: Take 1-2 teaspoons daily during cold and flu season.
Dosage: 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day during illness.
When to Take:
- With meals to aid absorption.
- Before bed to support overnight healing.
Duration: Continue until symptoms improve, typically 5-7 days.
Using Honey for Herbal Preservation
Honey is antimicrobial and a natural preservative, making it ideal for storing herbs.
Garlic Honey
- Ingredients:
- 10 fresh garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 cup raw honey
- Instructions:
- Place garlic cloves in a clean, dry jar.
- Cover completely with honey, ensuring no air pockets remain.
- Seal the jar and store at room temperature for 2-3 weeks, flipping the jar daily.
- Use as needed for colds and sore throats.
When making garlic honey, it's important to burp the jar daily to release any pressure that may build up due to fermentation. This happens because garlic contains natural sugars, and when submerged in honey, it can ferment slightly, producing gas. Flipping the jar ensures the garlic is fully coated and prevents mold.
How to Burp the Jar:
- Daily Routine: After flipping the jar once or twice a day to coat the garlic in honey, open the lid slightly to release any built-up gas.
- Gently Vent: You don’t need to remove the lid completely—just loosen it enough for a small hiss of air to escape. Hold the jar securely to prevent spills.
- Re-Seal: After burping, tighten the lid back on to keep the garlic honey sealed.
Repeat this process daily for the first 1-2 weeks. Over time, as the garlic honey stabilizes, fermentation will slow down, and you won’t need to burp the jar as often.
Tip: Always keep an eye on the jar to make sure there’s no pressure buildup, which can cause leaks. If you see bubbles, that's a good sign that fermentation is happening naturally!
You can use both the garlic and the honey, depending on your preference and needs!
- Eat the Garlic: The garlic cloves are softened and mellowed by the honey over time. Eating a clove can be especially powerful for immune support, colds, or infections. Start with one clove and work your way up if you're sensitive to garlic.
- Take the Honey: The honey itself is infused with the beneficial properties of the garlic. You can take a teaspoon of the honey for soothing a sore throat, boosting immunity, or adding it to warm water or tea (just make sure it’s not boiling hot to preserve the raw benefits).
- Use Both Together: For maximum benefits, eat a clove of garlic and follow it with a spoonful of honey. The sweetness of the honey helps offset the strong taste of the garlic.
Pro Tip: The honey can also be drizzled over toast, salad dressings, or soups for an immune-boosting kick, and the garlic cloves can be chopped into dishes like stir-fries or roasted vegetables.
- Dosage: 1 teaspoon every 2-3 hours for acute infections.
- When to Take:
- At the onset of sore throat or congestion.
- Before meals to optimize absorption.
Onion Honey
- Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup raw honey
- Instructions *Use same instructions as the garlic honey
- Layer onion slices in a clean jar.
- Pour honey over the onion slices until fully submerged.
- Seal the jar and let sit for 24 hours at room temperature.
- Use the honey for coughs or sore throats. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Application: Place on chest or feet at night.
- Frequency: Use nightly during illness for up to 3 days.
Fire Cider Recipe
- Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh grated horseradish
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- 1/4 cup grated ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 fresh chili peppers (or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper)
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- 2 cups raw apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup raw honey (optional)
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large mason jar.
- Pour apple cider vinegar to cover everything, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
- Seal tightly and shake well.
- Store in a dark place for 4 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain into a clean jar and store in the fridge. Take 1-2 tablespoons daily for immunity.
Dosage: 1-2 tablespoons 2-3 times a day.
When to Take:
- Morning (to kickstart the day).
- Midday (to maintain energy and immune function).
- Evening (with dinner or as needed).
Duration: Use as a preventative remedy during the cold and flu season or daily during acute symptoms.
Elderberry Syrup
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup raw honey
- Instructions:
- Simmer elderberries in water for 45 minutes, reducing the liquid by half.
- Strain through cheesecloth and cool slightly.
- Mix in honey until fully dissolved.
- Store in a glass jar in the fridge for up to 2 months. Take 1-2 teaspoons daily.
Dosage: 1 teaspoon daily for prevention, or 1 teaspoon every 3-4 hours during illness.
When to Take:
- Morning and evening for prevention.
- Every 3-4 hours during illness for faster recovery.
Duration: Continue for 7-10 days or until symptoms resolve.
Immune Bombs
- Ingredients:
- Juice of 3 lemons
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour into silicone ice cube trays and freeze.
- Use one cube in hot water as a tea or eat directly when feeling under the weather.
Dosage: 1 cube daily for prevention or 2 cubes during illness.
When to Take:
- Morning (for a boost).
- Afternoon (to maintain energy and support immune function).
Duration: Use as needed during illness or flu season.
Garlic Oil
Homemade Garlic Oil Recipe
Garlic oil is a powerful natural remedy for supporting immune health, easing congestion, and alleviating respiratory issues. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients
- 10 fresh garlic cloves (organic if possible)
- 1 cup olive oil (or another neutral carrier oil, such as avocado or coconut oil)
- Optional: A few drops of vitamin E oil (acts as a natural preservative)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely or crush them to release their natural oils and beneficial compounds.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a small saucepan, add the olive oil and warm it over low heat. Avoid high heat to preserve the medicinal properties of the garlic.
- Infuse the Garlic:
- Add the chopped or crushed garlic to the warm oil. Let the mixture simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to infuse the oil with the garlic without burning it.
- Cool and Strain:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the garlic oil to cool slightly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean, dry glass jar or bottle. Discard the garlic solids.
- Store the Oil:
- Add a few drops of vitamin E oil to prolong shelf life (optional).
- Seal the jar or bottle tightly and store the oil in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
How to Use
-
For Respiratory Support:
Massage a small amount onto the chest and feet. Cover with socks or a warm towel for better absorption. -
For Ear Infections:
Warm the oil slightly and place 1-2 drops into the affected ear (do not use if there’s a perforated eardrum or severe pain). -
As an Immune Booster:
Add 1 teaspoon to soups or herbal teas for internal support.
Caution
- Always perform a patch test before applying garlic oil to sensitive skin.
- Do not leave garlic oil at room temperature for extended periods to avoid the risk of botulism.
This garlic oil is versatile and a great addition to your natural remedy toolkit!
- Frequency: Once or twice daily during respiratory issues.
7. Neti Pot with Saline Solution
- Usage:
- Morning and evening during acute sinus congestion.
- Daily or as needed for prevention during allergy or flu season.
8. Eucalyptus Steam Shower
Enhance Your Breathing and Relaxation
A eucalyptus steam shower is a simple yet powerful way to support your respiratory health, relax your body, and create a spa-like experience at home. Here's how to incorporate eucalyptus essential oil into your shower or bath routine:
Using a Shower Essential Oil Diffuser
- Place your essential oil diffuser disc on the back of the shower head, away from the direct stream of water but close enough to catch the warmth and steam.
- Add 3-5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil onto the diffuser. The heat and steam from the shower will activate the oils, creating an invigorating aroma that clears the airways and soothes the senses.
- Close the bathroom door to trap the steam and aroma inside, creating a sauna-like effect.
Using a Diffuser Machine
- If you prefer a more consistent release of essential oils, use a diffuser machine.
- Add 5-10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the diffuser along with water, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the diffuser in the bedroom, or shelf in the bathroom, and close the door to allow the oils to infuse the entire space. Turn on your shower or bath to enhance the steam and create a full-room experience.
Enhancing the Bath Experience
- Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil directly to your clay diffuser, or onto a bath salt blend for a soothing soak.
- Pair this with a warm bath to open your pores and allow the aromatic benefits to penetrate deeply.
Why Eucalyptus?
- Clears the Airways: Eucalyptus is renowned for its ability to open up nasal passages and support easy breathing.
- Relieves Congestion: The cooling, menthol-like properties can reduce sinus congestion and respiratory discomfort.
- Promotes Relaxation: The crisp, refreshing scent also soothes the mind and encourages relaxation, making it perfect for stress relief.
Example Essential Oil Blends for Diffusion
- Winter Immune Boost: 3 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops rosemary, 1 drop lemon.
- Stress Relief: 3 drops orange, 2 drops lavender, 1 drop clove.
- Congestion Clearer: 4 drops eucalyptus, 3 drops peppermint, 2 drops tea tree.
This simple addition to your routine can transform your shower or bath into a therapeutic, revitalizing escape!
9. Thoracic Pumping
Thoracic Pump: A Gentle Technique for Supporting Lymphatic Drainage and Immune Health
The thoracic pump is a simple and effective technique that helps stimulate the lymphatic system, improve circulation, and support the immune system. This practice is commonly used in osteopathic medicine and can be done at home with proper care. Here’s how you can perform it safely:
What Is the Thoracic Pump?
The thoracic pump involves rhythmic pressure applied to the chest area to encourage lymphatic flow, enhance oxygen exchange in the lungs, and promote detoxification. This technique is particularly beneficial for improving immune response during times of illness or congestion.
Benefits of the Thoracic Pump
- Lymphatic Drainage: Stimulates the movement of lymph fluid, aiding in the removal of toxins and waste.
- Immune Boost: Helps the body fight infections by enhancing the immune system's efficiency.
- Respiratory Health: Improves lung function and supports better oxygenation.
- Stress Relief: Promotes relaxation and reduces physical tension.
How to Perform the Thoracic Pump
- Preparation:
- Lie flat on your back on a firm surface (such as a yoga mat or bed).
- Ensure your head is supported with a small pillow to maintain comfort.
- Take a few deep breaths to relax.
- Hand Placement:
- Place your hands flat on your chest, just below your collarbones, with fingers pointing toward your shoulders.
- Ensure your hands are relaxed and gentle.
- Pumping Motion:
- Using gentle pressure, rhythmically compress the chest downward toward the spine.
- Release the pressure slowly and completely to allow the chest to rise back to its resting position.
- Repeat this motion at a steady rhythm, about 1-2 compressions per second.
- Breathing Coordination:
- As you press down, encourage the individual (or yourself) to exhale gently.
- As you release, inhale deeply and naturally.
- Duration:
- Perform the thoracic pump for 1-2 minutes at a time, then rest.
- Repeat up to 3 times, depending on comfort and need.
Precautions
- Gentle Pressure: Avoid excessive force; the motion should be firm but not uncomfortable.
- Medical Conditions: If you have a history of chest pain, respiratory issues, or any medical conditions affecting the chest or lungs, consult a healthcare provider before performing this technique.
- Children or Fragile Individuals: Use extra caution and very light pressure.
When to Use the Thoracic Pump
- During cold or flu recovery to promote lymphatic drainage.
- After a long period of inactivity or congestion to stimulate circulation.
- As part of a detox routine to support the body’s natural cleansing processes.
The thoracic pump is a gentle, effective way to support your body’s natural healing and detoxification processes, helping you feel better and breathe easier.
- Frequency:
- Daily during acute illness to support lymphatic drainage.
- 2-3 times a week for maintenance and prevention.
10. Meditation with Light Therapy
Using Meditation and Light Therapy for Healing and Relaxation
Combining meditation with LED light therapy is a powerful way to amplify the healing benefits of both practices. Light therapy enhances your skin and body health, while meditation helps calm the mind and reduce stress. Together, they can create a holistic wellness experience that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit.
Using Light Therapy to Soothe a Sore Throat
Light therapy is a versatile tool, and its benefits extend beyond skincare. It can be an effective way to support healing for a sore throat. Using the blue light setting on your LED mask, which is known for its antibacterial properties, can help reduce bacteria and inflammation in the throat area.
How to Use Light Therapy for a Sore Throat
- Set Up the Light: Turn your LED mask to the blue light setting, which targets bacteria and inflammation.
- Open Your Mouth: Position the light source so it shines directly into your open mouth, focusing on the back of your throat (make sure to protect your eyes).
- Duration: Use the light for 5-10 minutes at a time, up to 2-3 times per day, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
- Supplement with Red Light: After using blue light, you can switch to red light to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
- Additional Tips:
- Sit comfortably with the light positioned at an optimal distance (as specified in your mask’s instructions).
- Combine this treatment with hydration, herbal teas, and other soothing remedies for enhanced healing.
Why It Works
- Blue Light: Effectively kills bacteria that may be causing the infection.
- Red Light: Supports healing by stimulating cell repair and reducing inflammation.
Benefits of Combining Meditation and Light Therapy
- Enhanced Relaxation: The calming effects of light therapy, combined with focused breathing and mindfulness, help lower stress levels and promote deep relaxation.
- Improved Skin Health: Red light, blue light, and other colors target specific skin concerns, such as acne, wrinkles, or inflammation, while meditation reduces cortisol, which can also improve skin health.
- Lymphatic and Circulatory Boost: The relaxation from meditation improves circulation, while light therapy stimulates collagen production and supports healing.
- Mood Elevation: Using meditation alongside light therapy enhances serotonin and dopamine production, improving mood and combating feelings of anxiety or depression.
When to Use Meditation and Light Therapy
- Morning Routine:
- Light Therapy Setting: Use red or orange light to energize and stimulate collagen production.
- Meditation Focus: Set an intention for the day while focusing on your breath.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes of meditation while wearing your LED mask or focusing on the light.
- Midday Reset:
- Light Therapy Setting: Use blue light to calm inflammation or green light to balance and tone skin.
- Meditation Focus: Perform a body scan meditation to release tension and reset your energy.
- Duration: 15-20 minutes to rejuvenate and refresh.
- Evening Relaxation:
- Light Therapy Setting: Use yellow or purple light to promote lymphatic drainage, reduce redness, or relax the skin.
- Meditation Focus: Practice gratitude or a calming visualization meditation to wind down.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes as part of your evening self-care routine.
- During Breakouts or Skin Healing:
- Light Therapy Setting: Use blue light to kill acne-causing bacteria or red light to stimulate healing.
- Meditation Focus: Repeat affirmations like, “My body knows how to heal, and I support it fully.”
- Duration: 15-20 minutes of focused healing energy.
- Before Bed:
- Light Therapy Setting: Use white or purple light to calm and prepare the skin and mind for rest.
- Meditation Focus: Practice a guided sleep meditation while visualizing light penetrating every cell for deep healing.
- Duration: 20 minutes or until you fall asleep.
How to Incorporate Meditation with Light Therapy
- Find a Quiet Space: Choose a comfortable area where you won’t be disturbed.
- Prepare Your Skin: Cleanse your face, apply your skincare products, and ensure your LED mask is ready to use.
- Set the Light Color: Choose the light color based on your skin concerns or mood goals.
- Focus Your Mind: Use a meditation app, a guided practice, or your own breath to anchor your thoughts.
- Visualization Techniques: Imagine the light deeply penetrating your skin, healing and rejuvenating each cell.
- Optional Props: Use a diffuser with calming essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) to enhance the sensory experience.
Sample Meditation for Light Therapy
- Start with Grounding:
- Sit or lie comfortably with the LED mask on or directed at your target area.
- Inhale deeply for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, and exhale for 6 counts.
- Visualize Healing Light:
- Picture the light penetrating your skin, soothing and repairing cells.
- Focus on a specific area if you’re addressing acne, fine lines, or inflammation.
- Gratitude and Affirmations:
- Repeat affirmations like, “I am glowing, healthy, and whole.”
- Imagine the light enveloping your entire being with healing energy.
- Close with Relaxation:
- Slowly bring your attention back to the room while staying in a calm, relaxed state.
Combining meditation and light therapy creates a synergistic effect that promotes healing, relaxation, and overall well-being. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday break, or winding down, this pairing is a transformative addition to your routine.
General Tips
- Stay consistent with remedies for the best outcomes.
- Start with smaller doses if you’re new to herbal remedies and adjust as needed.
- Keep hydrated and pair remedies with whole foods for better absorption.
- Use prevention-focused remedies (like elderberry or fire cider) daily during flu season, and switch to treatment-focused remedies (like garlic honey or immune bombs) at the onset of symptoms.
Tips for Using Herbal Extracts
- Use glycerine extracts for children or anyone sensitive to alcohol.
- Combine herbs thoughtfully for synergistic effects (e.g., echinacea and elderberry for colds).
- Add honey-based remedies to teas or take directly for sore throats and coughs.
- Use fire cider as a salad dressing for an immunity boost.
- Store all extracts and syrups in dark, cool places to extend shelf life.