Herbal helps for older learners, alergy aids

By Jonathan Evans Herbal Information Specialist /Business Representative for the Herbarium Special to PRIME Dear Jonathan, I am heading back to school after a "Spring Break" lasting 18 years. I am a bit worried and concerned about getting back into the school swing, studying, remembering all the information, and just keeping up with the kids. Is there anything you might suggest for me? Phil from Westfield Dear Phil, Congratulations! It sounds like a great idea and I am sure you will do well. Which part do you need help with: fear, stress, anxiety, memory? I will touch on each since I don't know which part is the worst for you. Fear: Try a product called "Rescue Remedy ". This is a flower essence which is used for a variety of problems, from fear to extreme emotional or physical trauma. It is very safe and does not conflict with any medication you may be using. Stress and Anxiety: I could write a book just on this section. Make sure you have a good multi-vitamin with enough B-complex. Extra B complex and extra vitamin C are important. Minerals should include plenty of Magnesium along with good amounts of Zinc, Copper, Chromium and Iron. Essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3 oils, DHA and EPA from fish or flax will help in supporting brain development and maintenance plus it will help maintain positive mood, lift depression and calm manic activity. Herbs such as Valerian, Kava Kava, Passionflower, Hops, Scullcap, Chamomile, Vervain, or Lemonbalm, either individually or in formulation will also be very helpful for stress and anxiety. My wife, Kathy, has created two teas which you might like. One is Relax Tea and the other is a specific for anxiety. Adaptogenic herbs- such as Eleuthro, Astragalus, Schizandra, Suma, and Ashwagandha are said to have a balancing effect on the body and increase resistance to the damaging effects of stress. If you are feeling "burnt out" perhaps an adrenal support formula would be advised. Memory: Ginkgo Biloba is probably the best known herbal for memory. But you will find DMAE, and Acetyl-L-Carnitine very good for neural function. Grapeseed extract, in proper dosage, can really help with memory and mood or behavior. We use this a great deal with children with ADD/ADHD. One last formula for memory and focus is called "Mind Trac" from Dr. Christopher. This really helps when you have six things on your mind and forgot the first three. Kathy has also created two essential oil blends that students have found helpful. " I Know I Can" helps with self esteem and self confidence. "Brain Power" helps to recall the information you have crammed into your cranium. There are individual oils to help with mood, attention or relaxing. We have a complete list at the Herbarium. Finally, try to learn some relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga, perhaps. Remember the old saying "If I knew then what I know now.." well, now you do! You have been there and done that already! Relax, have fun with it and do not take yourself so seriously! Being older and wiser is an added benefit, and you won't need a fake ID this time! Got allergies? It is ragweed season, as you allergy sufferers already know. For those of you who may be experiencing hayfever symptoms for the first time, let me make a few suggestions. I have never had great results with over-the-counter products. Fortunately I discovered herbal remedies many years ago and have not had any problems since. For quick results, try a homeopathic remedy. These remedies come in pellet, tablet or liquid forms, they work fast and will not interfere with any other medications you may be on. They will also be fairly specific in their actions. You can find sinus and allergy, hayfever, animal dander, dust and mold formulas, just about anything you might need. Next month we will discuss herbal formulas to help with sinus problems. New alcohol labels Some Nature's Rx readers and listeners have commented to us about seeing me interviewed on the local news pertaining to new nutritional label requirements on alcoholic products. Some of you were surprised I was not in favor of it. Let me just say this. It is a waste of taxpayer dollars, and corporate dollars. Why in Heavens name would anyone need to know the protein, carbohydrate, or calorie content of booze? We know it is full of empty calories. If you really are that close to a calorie count that ten extra ones would be bad, perhaps you should not be drinking adult beverages in the first place. Let's use some common sense here people. Don't you think the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms could be doing something a bit more productive than checking liquor bottle labels? Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx : Jonathan Evans via e-mail at info@theherbarium.com, or by regular mail at The Herbarium, 264 Exchange Street, Chicopee, MA 01013.