Rachael Frost Medical Herbalist

18/07/2022

Some of my lovely garden herbs!

02/02/2022

Fascinating bit of research here - some types of gut bacteria may help prevent severe Covid

Research from Japan has found that a certain type of gut bacteria appears to lower the rate of COVID deaths.

21/12/2021

Hope everyone has a lovely winter solstice!

04/10/2021

Herb of the week: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm (sometimes just known as ‘balm’) is one of my favourite herbs! It has been traditionally used for anxiety and depression for a long time. Older herbals described it as “powerfully chasing away melancholy”. Recent clinical trials have shown it has similar effects to sertraline in reducing symptoms of depression. In addition to its relaxing and uplifting effects, it also soothes digestion.

It’s a beautiful plant with lemon-scented green leaves and is very easy to grow. If like me you’re lucky enough to have one in your garden, you can easily make fresh tea using a few leaves in hot water.

Note: Lemon balm is safe to take in almost any situation, however due to potential concerns that it could interact with thyroid medication, it is best avoided if you are experiencing any issues with your thyroid.

03/10/2021

Drying some Calendula flowers today - lovely anti-inflammatory herb