lemongrass explained

Lemongrass - herb and oil uses

Since I put lemongrass in so many of my products, it’s about time this amazing plant was explained a little. 

First, My Story:  Lemongrass is the oil that got me interested in essential oils in the first place.  Maybe that explains my love for it.  Over 5 years ago, I had a kinked neck from doing too many sommersaults while teaching gymnastics (a clue to my craziness) that had been hanging on for a week despite my best efforts of stretching, massage and adjustments.  A friend rubbed some lemongrass on my neck and shoulder muscles and about 15 minutes later, I was nearly pain free and could move my neck freely again!  I was so amazed that I began my study and schooling of essential oils.  I since have learned that lemongrass is your number one choice for repairing torn ligaments!

Historically: lemongrass has been used for purification and digestion. 

Medicinally:  The essential oil has been shown to have strong antifungal and antibacterial action as well as be antiparasitic.  It is anti-inflammatory, dilates blood vessels, improves circulation, promotes lymph flow, and regenerates connective tissues and ligaments.  It is great for the skin.

Used For:  The herb and oil have also been used for bladder, respiratory and sinus infections, digestive problems, parasites, fluid retention, varicose veins, bug repellent and Salmonella.

T’s Tonics products Lemongrass is found in:  Sun and Skin Soother, Skeeter Beater, Lip Infusion, Sore Muscle Salve, Teen Skin Tonic, Hair Tease conditioner, Mellow Yellow Tea, Citrus Hibiscus Tea.

And now you know the rest of the story.  I hope you enjoy some lemongrass today.

Arnica montana flower and tincture

Arnica flower and tincture

What is arnica?  Arnica Montana is a high mountain meadow plant well known and documented in Germany and many parts of the world for its quick healing abilities.  (the German nickname for it means “stand up and walk home.”) It’s bright yellow flowers are used in external applications for pain and inflammation. This herb is the most powerful, quick working medicine I know for inflammations, bumps, bruises, and injury pain.  

We have used it for years in my family as the kids have grown and been active in sports.  It is also good for sprains and sore muscles, and reported to help with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  It helps relieve the pressure, pain and swelling of injuries on location.*  The earlier after injury that it can be applied the better.  Think of it as your ice pack.  It is recommended that it not be used internally, or on open wounds or broken skin.  

It is available in the form of ointment, tincture, or homeopathically in your local grocery health section.  Here at T’s Tonics, we offer fresh wild-harvested arnica in a spray form making it easy to apply without touching sensitive areas as well as quick to soak in. A few drops of therapeutic peppermint oil acts as a “driver oil” and works synergistically with the arnica to go in deep to stop swelling at the cellular level.  Whatever form you choose, this is a good tool to have on hand for those unexpected bumps, bruises and pains that come along.

*This information is for educational purposes only and not to diagnose, treat or cure any diseases. 

Arnica testamonials

“My wife sprayed it on my back which has been in pain and almost instantly it gave relief.  2 hours of no pain.  It was like a miracle.” –Antonio T.

“My arms and hands were going to sleep on me at night.  After I sprayed it on the back of my neck, I slept through the night without any numbness.” – Charity H.

“My fingers give me fits sometimes because of overworking and arthritis.  The arnica spray is very helpful at reducing swelling and discomfort.” If I use it after working hard, I will not wake up the next day as sore as I am without using it.” – Dennis H.

“It gave relief soon after spraying it on my knee injury.” –Steve

“I use the arnica spray on my inflamed skin dermatitis.  T’s Tonics is more potent and works better than other arnicas I have used.” –Marjorie O

making sun infused oils

infusing calandula flowers

Infusing oils with herbs is easy.

Choose herbs:  I always use dried herbs although I know fresh are often used.  Just be sure they are washed and dried thoroughly to avoid bacteria growth and that there is no moisture or air trapped in stems.  (think of the old addage, "oil and water do not mix")

Choose oil/s:  This will depend on what you are wanting to do with the infusion.
Olive oil goes rancid quickly so only choose if you are using the oil up within a couple of months.
For skin care products there are many choices and it is fun to experiment and find ones you like.  My absolute favorite is grapeseed oil because it has 3 times the vitamin E content as olive oil yet has small molecules so it soaks in deep and quick without the greasy feel of many heavier oils.  This is not the best choice for an oil you want to stay on the surface long.  Other oils I often use are coconut oil (liquid at 78 degrees F), sweet almond oil, jojoba, or wheat germ.  Shea butter and cocoa butter get added later to balms and salves.

Stuff a quart jar 2/3 full of herbs and pour your oils over mixture to 1/2 inch from top.  Put on lid and shake gently to mix.  Sit on a window ledge in the sun for 2 to 3 weeks or longer.  Shake to mix a couple times a week or when you think of it.  Strain off the herbs with a fine coffee strainer or cheesecloth.  Make sure to label and date your blend.  Pour into bottles and enjoy.