One of the first things to learn, if you are interested in the healing properties of herbs, is how to use them properly. Every plant has its weaknesses and strengths, like any other being on this diverse planet.

Not every plant has their important properties in the same parts, but also, not every part is used in the same way. You can use seeds from the one plant or leaves from the other. Or you can use the leaves of a plant for a certain reason, but the root for another.

Mouthwash: For the mouth, the tonsils, teeth, the pharynx, and the larynx you can use mouthwash in a form of a herbal tea. It helps with irritations, infections, and coughs. It is important to use only lukewarm tea for mouthwash.

Poultice: You apply it directly to the skin, then you tie it up with a clean cloth for a few minutes, depending on the herb, the condition, and the directions for use. Also, it is important to know the appropriate temperature. For example, some anti-inflammatory properties can destroyed in temperatures above 50 C. Normally, 5 minutes in warm water is enough.

Compresses: This is actually a cloth dipped into am herbal tea or lotion or tincture. You press it into the skin for 5 to 15 minutes.

Lotion: You can make it with a water base or an oil base. In both cases you use it externally. Gently spread it in the area which needs to be cured and apply a soft massage in order for it to be absorbed by the skin. Also, you can use it for hair problems like dandruff, hair loss etc.

Herbal baths: These special treats being offered to you here are not only for active illnesses. They are also preventive, for good health, and they also make you feel good, helping you to relax.

Herbal baths: These special treats are not only for when you become ill. They are also preventive, but will also help you to feel good and to relax. Usually for a bath, you boil 5 liters of water and you remove it from heat 5 minutes before you put the herbs. You use the appropriate quantity of herbs, depending on the treatment and illness. The best utensil to prepare it is porcelain or enamel with a lid. The best hour is at night on an empty stomach and the best temperature is as hot as you can handle. Another method is put place them in linen white cloth pouch and run the hot water through it while you filling your bath.

Eye washing: You must be very careful with the dosage, because eyes are the most sensitive external organs of our body. The most common use is chamomile (this is why chamomile drops are so common). The best way is dipping a small cotton ball into the lukewarm herbal water and rubbing it directly on the eyes.

* The above is not medical advice but mere suggestions for improving your diet. Before reach herbal use you should consult your doctor, especially those who have health issues, are pregnant or are under the age of 6.

Evropi-Sofia Dalampira holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics and an Msc in Botany-Biology.