Friday, April 20, 2012

Guest Blog and Giveaway with Ron Voigts


Most writers starting out have some belief that they will write the next great American novel. J.K. Rowling and Stephanie Meyer move over, because here I come! But it doesn’t work out that way.


I wrote two novels between 1996 and 2000. One, a science fiction, I thought had potential, but unfortunately no one else did. The other novel was more main stream, but looking back, I’m happy no one ever read it.

The first Penelope book started out in 2000 and I had the input of a small group of also aspiring writers. We had a no holds barred critique group. Having someone tell you your main character has the personality of a wet napkin can hurt. But I reworked her until I had a bold, brassy thirteen-year-old who wasn’t afraid to stand up for what’s right. Why I named her Penelope, I don’t know. It just seemed to fit. After sending out query letters to about twenty literary agents, I started getting some nibbles. I did some rewrites and sent out more query letters until I found an agency to represent me.

I immediately took off writing the second book sometime around 2005, hoping that having a series would be a big selling point. The second book took about a year to write, and the agent loved it. The only down side was I now had two books that were almost identical to sell. We got some inquiries from time to time, but never a contract offer. At this point I decided to write my next novel.

I took a different path and wrote a murder mystery using North Carolina as the setting. My premise was what if a rich northern playboy found himself in a small rural southern town in the midst of a murder. Two years later in 2009, the agent took on this book too.

So where did this all go? By mutual agreement, I withdrew the Penelope books and self-published them in last year. I’ve had so much fun doing it I added a third novel and a short story to the Penelope Mystery series. As for the southern mystery, the literary agent has just recently placed it with a publisher. And, currently, I am writing a paranormal mystery which I hope to have ready by the end of this year.

Have I written the great American novel? I like to think so. Am I as famous as Rowling or Meyer? Not yet, but I’m working at it.



April 20 Guest Blog 
The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom 

April 21 Character Guest Blog 
Butterfly-o-Meter Books 

April 23 Guest blog and review 
Lissette E. Manning 

April 24 Promo and review 
Storm Goddess Book Reviews & More- 
April 25 Promo and Interview 
JeanzBookReadNReview 

April 26 Guest Blog 
Fang-tastic Books 

April 27 Guest blog and review 
Reviews By Molly 


PENELOPE AND THE MOVIE STAR


By Ron D Voigts

Age Level: Mid Grade Mystery (tween)

Blurb

Marvel Movies comes to Tiffin Preparatory School to shoot a motion picture against the backdrop of the old Windorf Hotel that now houses the school. Penelope sneaks onto the set and watches them film a scene. Famous actors Priscilla Young and Clarence Dodd star in the movie and Penelope gets to see them up close. Regrettably, she also sees a spotlight fall on the director and kill him. Penelope claims she had her eyes shut when it happened, but the police think she may remember something. Unfortunately for her, the killer also thinks she may recall something.



To complicate matters, the school has a new cook, and Penelope’s friend Raddy thinks Chef Judy is trying to poison them. The new girl at school steals away everyone’s friends. As always Principal Merriweather keeps finding new ways to expel her. Between trying to get her friends back, starving and keeping away from the killer, she has her hands full in this next Penelope Mystery.




Biography



Ron D. Voigts lives in Raleigh, NC and sometimes somewhere else. When back in Raleigh, he enjoys time with his family, watches old movies and shoots lots of pool. He has his own private writer's retreat in La Vale, MD where he spends lots of time working on his next novel while enjoying the mountains and eating ice cream.



Media Links

Twitter: @RonDVoigts

http://rondvoigts.blogspot.com/

http://www.penelopemystery.com/

http://www.facebook.com/penelopemystery






Giveaway is a Smashwords code for 
Penelope and The Ghost’s Treasure



(Ron will later send a coupon for Penelope and The Movie Star once it becomes available on Smashwords)

If you would like to win these two books please leave a comment with your email address

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Notes and Carrier Oils in Aromatherapy

"Notes" of essential oils

There are three categories or classifications of essential oils: top note, middle note and base note. These terms describe the rate at which they evaporate, or how long the fragrance will last.

Top note fragrances are the most stimulating and strongly scented but the scent only lasts for 3 to 24 hours. Some top note essential oils are basil, bergamot, clary sage, coriander, eucalyptus, lemongrass, neroli, peppermint, sage and thyme.

Middle note oil fragrances last about two to three days and they affect the metabolic and body functions. The scent is less potent than top note fragrances. Some middle note oils are balm, chamomile, fennel, geranium, hyssop, juniper, lavender and rosemary.

Base note essential oils are the slowest to evaporate and can last up to a week. The usually have a sweet, soothing scent and a relaxing effect on the body. Some examples of base note oils are cedarwood, clove, frankincense, ginger, jasmine, rose and sandalwood.

Carrier oils

Carrier oils or base oils (not to be confused with base note essential oils) that are used to dilute essential oils, CO2s and absolutes before applying to the skin.

Some of the most commonly used carrier oils are:

Almond oil, which is easily absorbed by the skin, has little smell. It keeps well and has beneficial effects on hair, dry skin and brittle nails.

Apricot kernel oil contains vitamin A, which is great for dry skin and wrinkles.

Avocado oil is heavy, rich in nutrients. Good for dry, aging and sensitive skin.

Evening Primrose oil is good for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis but only keeps for about two months after opening.

Grapeseed oil is light, good for oily skin and one of the least-expensive oils.

Hazelnut oil penetrates easily and is very nourishing to the skin.

Jojoba oil is light and rich in vitamin E. It is beneficial for acne, dandruff and dry scalp.

Olive oil has a strong smell that may compete with the fragrance of many essential oils.

Peach kernel oil is light, contains vitamins A and E and is good for facial use.

Sunflower oil contains essential fatty acids, is rich in Vitamin E and has a slightly nutty scent.

Wheatgerm oil contains vitamins A, B, C and E. It firms and tones skin, reduces blemishes and can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scar tissue. It has a strong smell.

Other carrier oils are borage, cocoa butter, kukui, macadamia nut, peanut, pecan, rose hip, sesame and shea butter.

Essential oils can be added to humidifiers, vaporizers, candle wax, diffusers, spray bottles of water, baths, light bulb rings, inhaled directly from the bottle or added to massage oils, bath oils, bath salts, powders or body lotions.

Here are several basic recipes and combinations for using essential oils:


For the bath: Use 6 to10 drops of essential oil mixed with ½ ounce or 1 tablespoon of unscented bath oil per tub of water or just add essential oils directly to bath water while it is running.

For massage: Use 6 to 10 drops of essential oil mixed with 2 tablespoons or 1 ounce of carrier oil.

Perfume and cologne: Mix 13 drops of essential oil with 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil for perfume. For cologne, mix with 1 tablespoon of alcohol.

Atomizer/Spray bottle: Mix 6 drops of essential oil with 1 ounce of water.

Inhalation: Mix 4 to 7 drops of essential oil in a large bowl of hot water, cover head with towel over bowl and inhale deeply for 5 to 7 minutes.

Diffuser: Follow the specific instructions for your brand of diffuser

Always consult a medical doctor before taking any essential oils internally.Store essential oils in a cool, dark place because light can damage the oils. Store them in dark, tinted glass bottles.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Common Essential Oils Used with Aromatherapy

General safety information


Do not take any oils internally without consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. If you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, cancer or any other medical problem, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.

Use extreme caution when using oils with children and give children only the gentlest oils at extremely low doses. It is safest to consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children. A skin patch test should be conducted prior to using an oil that you've never used before.

Essential oils for aromatherapy

Basil is uplifting and stimulating with a fresh, sweet and spicy scent. It is used for treating bronchitis, colds, constipation, insect bites, mental fatigue, migraine, nervous tension, rheumatism and sinus congestion. May cause irritation to sensitive skin. Dilute well and do not use during pregnancy.

Bergamot is refreshing and uplifting. It has a sweet and spicy scent and is used in treating acne, boils, chicken pox, colds, cold sores, cystitis, flatulence, loss of appetite, mouth infections and sore throat. May increase skin's sensitivity to sunlight. It should not be used when exposed to sunlight or sunlamps, and it should also be avoided during pregnancy.


Black Pepper is stimulating with a warm and peppery scent. It is used for colds, constipation, digestive problems, flatulence, heartburn, indigestion, muscle aches and pains and sinus congestion. May irritate sensitive skin. Use well diluted. Avoid during pregnancy.

Chamomile is soothing and relaxing. It has a sweet, herbal and fruity scent. It is used in the treatment of acne, blisters, boils, colitis, depression, digestive problems, headaches, indigestion, nervous tension, rheumatism and skin conditions. May cause skin irritation. Not to be used in early pregnancy.

Clary Sage has a warming effect and a sweet, spicy and herbal scent. It is used for treating asthma, depression, digestive problems, exhaustion, muscle cramps and spasms, PMS relief and respiratory problems. Do not use during pregnancy or before driving or other activities that require high levels of concentration. Clary sage is highly sedative.

Clove has warming effect and a sweet, spicy, fresh scent. It is used for bronchitis, colds, indigestion, infected wounds, insect repellant, mouth sores, muscle and nerve tension, as a room disinfectant and for toothache. Highly irritating to the skin, Dilute to less than 1% prior to use.

Cypress is relaxing and refreshing with a sweet and refreshing scent. Its uses include asthma, bronchitis, cough, edema, hemorrhoids, menopause, menstrual symptoms, muscle and nerve tension, oily skin and hair and rheumatism. Avoid during pregnancy.

Eucalyptus is balancing and stimulating. Its scent is camphorous and woody. It is used as an air disinfectant and insect repellent and is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, burns and cuts. It is also used as a decongestant and to treat flu, headaches, muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers, urinary infections and wounds. Fatal if ingested. Do not use if you have epilepsy or high blood pressure.

Fennel has a clearing effect with an earthy and sweet smell. It is used for digestive problems, gout and nervous tension. Do not use during pregnancy or if you have epilepsy.

Frankincense has uplifting and relaxing effects and a sweet, warm scent. It is used in treating asthma, bronchitis and colds, and for healing wounds, nervous tension, respiratory conditions, skin care, as a uterine tonic and in massage after childbirth.

Geranium has comforting and healing effects and a floral, sweet and earthy scent. It is used for treating burns, eczema, edema, fluid retention, PMS symptoms, poor circulation, rheumatism and tonsillitis. May irritate sensitive skin. Avoid during pregnancy.

Ginger has warming effects and a warm, spicy and woody scent. It is used for arthritis, bronchitis, colds, flu, indigestion, poor circulation and sinusitis. May irritate sensitive skin.

Jasmine has soothing and relaxing effects with a warm, floral scent. It is used for treating anxiety, cough, headache, mental tension and sensitive or dry skin. Avoid during pregnancy.


Juniper has cleansing and refreshing effects and a fresh, woody, sweet scent. Its uses include acne, cellulite, dermatitis, gout, muscle aches and pains and ulcers. Avoid during pregnancy and if you have kidney disease.

Lavender has calming and therapeutic effects with a floral, sweet, woody and herbal scent. It is used in treating acne, anxiety, bronchitis, colds, flu, headaches, insect bites, insomnia, muscle aches and pains, PMS symptoms, skin problems, sunburn, tension, wounds and sores. Avoid during early pregnancy and use with caution if you have low blood pressure.

Lemon is refreshing and stimulating with a fresh, sharp, citrus scent. It is used for cellulite, circulatory problems, cold sores, constipation, corns, gingivitis, headaches, insect bites, migraine, sore throat and varicose veins. Increases skin sensitivity to sunlight and should not be directly inhaled.

Lemongrass is refreshing and toning with a sweet, citrus scent. It is used in the treatments of colic, fatigue and indigestion. It helps stimulate appetite and reduces stress.


Marjoram is soothing and warming with a warm, spicy scent. It is used for anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, bruises, colic, constipation, insomnia, muscle aches and pains, PMS symptoms, sinusitis and sprains. Avoid during pregnancy.

Myrrh is toning and rejuvenating with a warm, spicy scent similar to musk. It is used in treating arthritis, bronchitis, colds, cough, digestive problems, mouth and gum problems and to stimulate the immune system. Avoid during pregnancy.

Neroli is relaxing with a refreshing floral scent. It is used to treat depression, digestive problems, dry or sensitive skin, flatulence, headaches, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, nervous tension, panic attacks and stress. Avoid during pregnancy.

Orange is refreshing and relaxing with a fresh citrus scent. It is used in treating anxiety, cellulite, constipation, depression, digestive problems, dry and sensitive skin, aging skin, insomnia, muscle aches and pains, nervous tension, respiratory conditions and stress. Avoid during pregnancy. May irritate sensitive skin and increases kin sensitivity to sunlight.

Patchouli is relaxing with a sweet, spicy and woody scent. It is used to treat anxiety, cellulite, chapped and cracked skin, depression, eczema and low libido and to treat PMS symptoms, scar tissue and water retention.

Peppermint is refreshing and stimulating with a strong, fresh, menthol scent. It helps treat asthma, bronchitis, colic, headache, indigestion, migraine, muscle and joint pain, nausea, sore feet and toothaches. It is also used as an insect repellent. Avoid during pregnancy.

Rose is relaxing with a warm, deep, floral scent. It is used for aging skin, broken veins, depression, dry skin, headache, insomnia, PMS symptoms, sensitive skin, sore throat and stress. Avoid during pregnancy.

Rosemary is refreshing and stimulating with a refreshing, woody, herbal scent. It is used for treating burns, cellulite, colds, digestive problems, fatigue, flu, gout, liver and gall bladder problems, oily skin, poor circulation, water retention and wounds. Avoid during pregnancy and if you have high blood pressure.


Sandalwood is warming and relaxing with a woody, sweet, exotic scent. It is used for anxiety, bronchitis, fatigue, frigidity, impotence, immune system booster, nervous tension, skin conditions, sore throat, stress, urinary infections and water retention. Avoid during pregnancy. Do not use if depressed.

Tea tree is cleansing and refreshing with a fresh, medicinal scent. It is used in treating age spots, athlete's foot, boils, burns, colds, dandruff, fungal infections, itching, sunburn, urinary tract infections, and warts and is used as an immune system booster. May irritate sensitive skin.

Thyme is refreshing and warming with a sweet, strong, herbal scent. It is used in the treatment of arthritis, colds, cough, depression, fatigue, sore throat, stress and tonsillitis. It is also used as an immune system booster; it enhances memory and raises low blood pressure. Avoid during pregnancy. Do not use if you have high blood pressure.

Ylang-Ylang is relaxing and stimulating with a heavy, sweet, floral and exotic scent. It is helpful in treating anxiety, high blood pressure, intestinal problems, sexual dysfunction and stress. May irritate sensitive skin. May cause headaches.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Writing and Motherhood: A Match Made in...well...You know...



Writing and Motherhood: A Match Made in...well...You know...


As a stay-at-home mother of one very precocious toddler, being a writer isn’t always easy. When you have a curious little girl following you around the house, pressing buttons, opening cabinets and drawers, chasing the dog around and trying every door knob in the house, doing much of anything isn’t easy. The laundry piles up, the dishes spill out of the sink and toys cover the floors, lying in wait to stub any unprotected toe available. Finding the time to sit and quietly gather my thoughts enough to put intelligent words on the page is definitely a challenge, but it keeps me sane.

Any parent that stays at home knows how the repetitious chores that must be accomplished can drive even the most grounded person to the edge of sanity. And having a person to converse with who only speaks in “mine” and “no” doesn’t help much either, but writing really does help soothe my frustrations, even when it brings some of its own along. I stay up way too late writing in the few hours I get to myself and the next morning I mainline coffee just to get my butt moving. I do get writer’s guilt when I haven’t put more than a few words down on my current work in progress, but as a mother, taking the time to go to the park with my daughter, or go on an outing as a family is simply more important.

I do think being a mother puts things in perspective and helps me to appreciate my writing for what it is; a creative outlet that keeps me happy and fulfilled. Don’t get me wrong, if I make money or get a movie deal (please give me a movie deal!) I will be overjoyed. But my job is raising my daughter. It’s singing itsy-bitsy spider one million times, changing thousands of dirty diapers and reading the same book over and over. The odds that people will be reading my books twenty years from now aren’t that great. I’ll probably never be famous, or a JK Rowling or Stephen King. But my daughter is my legacy. I will be her mom forever. That is what gets me up in the morning, not writing. And if someday she decides to follow her dreams because her mother followed hers, it’ll make all this insanity worth it.

 

Hunter Moon


By Cait Lavender


Bawling cattle tore Shelby Flint from her bed. With lawyer fees to pay in her struggle to keep her ranch from the clutches of her greedy cousins, she couldn’t afford the loss of even one calf. When she sees a large wolf circling her cows, she aims and fires. While the wolf escapes, Shelby can’t seem to get away from her troubles when a marijuana grower sets up shop on her land, sabotaging her property and eventually coming after her.



Adding to that, a handsome game warden is poking his nose into her business and working his way underneath her skin. Shelby will have to fight harder than she ever fought before to keep from losing her heart and everything she ever loved.



Shelby Flint is a self-sufficient cowgirl and cattle rancher, but when a wolf goes after her calves, a man is murdered on her land and someone is sabotaging her property she can’t do it by herself any longer. In walks a handsome game warden, poking his nose in her business and working her way under her skin. Shelby will have to fight harder than she ever has before to keep from losing her heart and everything she ever loved.


About the Author:



Cait Lavender is a twenty five year old wife and stay at home mother of one in Central California. Living on a cattle ranch and raising her daughter doesn’t afford her much leisure time, but when she has a spare minute or two she loves riding horses, baking and reading everything she can get her hands on. She grew up loving the written word and creative writing and finally decided to work on her dream of becoming a published author.



She has a short story, Cowboy Moon, and a full-length novel, Hunter Moon, both available on Smashwords, Amazon and Barnes & Noble. She’d love to hear from you on her Facebook author page, @caitlavender on Twitter or on her blog, http://www.caitlavender.com/

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Sunday, April 15, 2012

Herbs and Their Uses H - Z

Hawthorn: In some countries hawthorn is prescribed to treat angina and the early stages of congestive heart failure. Hawthorn dilates blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure. Studies suggest that it can also reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Avoid during pregnancy.

Horse Chestnut: Traditional uses include treatment of arthritis pain, rheumatic pain, coughs and diarrhea. It is considered valuable in treating varicose veins and can reduce edema. Horse chestnut is reported to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Juniper: Traditionally juniper is used as a diuretic and to treat bladder and kidney conditions. The extract can aid in digestion and relieve flatulence. Juniper may have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in the treatment of arthritis. It can cause uterine contractions so it should be avoided during pregnancy.

Kava-kava: This herb has been widely used to induce relaxation, reduce anxiety, bring on sleep, counteract fatigue and treat asthma, arthritis pains and urinary difficulties. The root has even been used as a weight loss aid. Never mix Kava with alcohol, sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants.

Kelp: Kelp is a type of seaweed full of iodine. Studies show kelp can protect the body from toxic heavy metal poisoning and absorption of radiation. It can also help reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure and prevent some forms of infection.

Kola: This nut is also known as Cola and is what flavors popular cola drinks. It has been used to treat asthma. Studies show it can open bronchial passages. Avoid use during pregnancy because of the caffeine.

Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is taken internally as a tea primarily for relaxation. It has sedative and pain-reducing properties. It has also been studied and seems to be active against the herpes simplex virus, influenza virus and several other viruses.

Licorice: It has primarily been used to treat coughs, colds and respiratory infections. It has also been used extensively as a treatment for ulcers. Other uses include treatment of hepatitis-B, menopause and skin inflammations. It has antioxidant and anti-tumor activity. This herb should not be used by pregnant women or anyone with heart problems, kidney disease or gall bladder disease.

Ma Huang: The Chinese have used this herb for over 5000 years in the treatment of asthma and wheezing. It is used to treat colds, nasal congestion and nasal allergies. Ma Huang, or ephedra, is used in decongestants and diet aids. It should be used with extreme caution because it can cause serious heart problems, headache, insomnia, nervousness and agitation.

Milk Thistle: Milk Thistle extract has been used to treat liver and gall bladder problems.

Oregano: Oregano oil is used as a cough remedy to loosen up phlegm. Oregano can also be used as a digestive aid. Pregnant women should avoid using medicinal amounts; it has been known to stimulate uterine contractions.

Oregon Grape: Also known as Barberry, it is known to be good for the liver, gall bladder and a wide range of digestive problems. It has been used to treat ulcers, heartburn, high blood pressure, pinkeye and diarrhea. Topically it is used to treat psoriasis. Studies show it may shrink tumors and have possible value in treating arthritis.

Papaya: Papaya extract is the most widely used ingredient in commercial meat tenderizers. It is also used as a digestive aid and used to prevent ulcers. Pregnant women can eat papaya safely but should avoid papaya latex and medicinal doses of the leaves.

Parsley: This herb was traditionally used as a breath freshener. It is a diuretic and is used to treat congestive heart failure, to stimulate contractions during labor, to treat allergies and to reduce fever. Not to be used by pregnant or nursing women except under the care of a physician.

Passionflower: Not enough studies have been done on this herb, but traditionally it has been used to treat insomnia, nervous exhaustion, pain, tension, restlessness and digestive problems.

Pau D'Arco: This herb has antibacterial properties and can fight off fungus and yeast. Pregnant women should not take this internally.

Peppermint: The most common use for peppermint is for digestive problems. The oils are often added to water so the vapors can be inhaled to relieve the symptoms of colds and congestion. It is also used in cough treatments and throat lozenges. Avoid using if you are susceptible to heartburn. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Psyllium: Psyllium is a laxative that consists of dietary fibers. It is approved in over-the-counter uses under such brand names as Fiberall, Metamucil and others.

Pycnogenol: Pycongenol has been shown to alleviate asthma. It contains anti-inflammatory substances that combat bronchial swelling and constriction that trigger attacks. In a study done by Benjamin Lau, MD, PhD, asthmatic children who received a daily dose of the pine-bark extract were able to reduce or eliminate their use of inhalers.

Raspberry: Raspberry is often prescribed for many problems during pregnancy like morning sickness, uterine irritability and threat of miscarriage. Raspberry is also used to treat diarrhea and may help reduce blood sugar.

Red Clover: Used primarily as a supplement for menopausal women, it can reduce the symptoms of menopause. The National Cancer Institute has found this plant to have anti-tumor properties and it may have a future use as a cancer treatment. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Rosemary: Like most culinary herbs, rosemary is used as a digestive aid. Mix leaves into foods to keep them from spoiling and causing food poisoning. Rosemary is also used as a decongestant and infection prevention. Topical use of rosemary improves circulation and is used to improve the appearance of wrinkled skin. It can be used to clean acne, blemishes and dry skin. Pregnant women should avoid using Rosemary in medicinal amounts.

Saffron: This spice was worth its weight in gold for centuries. It is still very expensive. Herbalists recommend this herb as a sedative, expectorant, sexual stimulant, pain reliever, digestive aid and menstruation promoter. Studies suggest it helps lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease, lower blood pressure and increase oxygen in the blood. Pregnant women should avoid using in medicinal amounts because it can cause uterine contractions.

Sage: The herb of wisdom was traditionally used by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a meat preservative. It was also believed to enhance memory. Today sage is used as an antiperspirant it has been shown to reduce sweating by up to 50%. It is also used as a wound treatment and digestive aid as well as to reduce blood sugar and treat sore throats. It has been used to bring on menstruation and should be avoided by pregnant women.

Sarsaparilla: In ancient times sarsaparilla was thought to treat syphilis, but studies show there is no truth to the old myth. Illnesses that it has been shown to treat include high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It has diuretic properties and should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.


Saw Palmetto: Traditionally used for urinary problems and sexual difficulties, it can also treat the symptoms of prostate enlargement and benign prostate hypertrophy and help protect against prostate cancer. Saw Palmetto has anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce allergic reactions and helps stimulate immune response. Saw Palmetto has been shown to stop facial hair growth in women. Pregnant women and those that may become pregnant should avoid contact with the berry extract. Women using hormones for contraception or hormone replacement therapy should also avoid use of this herb.

Senna: This is one of the few herbs approved by the FDA and is sold as an over-the-counter laxative under such names as Senokot and Senolax. Pregnant women should not use senna unless recommended by a physician.

Siberian Ginseng: This is the Russian relative of China's ginseng. In Russia this herb is used primarily to improve physical performance and to reduce the effects of physical and mental stress.

Slippery Elm: Slippery elm bark has been used as a poultice for cuts, bruises and aching joints, and it is used to treat sore throat irritation. It has also been used in cough remedies.

St. John's Wort: Most frequently this herb is used to treat mild to moderate depression. It can also minimize mood swings associated with menopause. It may also improve sleep and mental concentration. In studies it is shown to have antiviral and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. When applied topically it has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in treating wounds, burns and hemorrhoids. St John's Wort should not be used by pregnant women or anyone taking MAO inhibitors. Sunlight sensitivity may occur, so protect skin and eyes while using it if exposed to sunlight or sunlamps.

Stinging Nettle: Parts of this plant have been used to treat urinary tract problems. They have mild diuretic properties. The plant is also used to flush out an inflamed bladder and prevent formation of kidney stones. It is also used as a treatment for allergies and benign prostate hypertrophy. Pregnant women should not use this herb.

Thyme: Thyme fights several disease-causing bacteria and fungi and is traditionally used as an antiseptic. It has also has been used as a digestive aid, as a cough remedy and to help relieve menstrual cramps. Thyme ointments can reduce spots. It is known for its deep-cleansing properties and it can remove dull and dry skin. The herb, not the oil, is what should be used. Thyme oil is extremely toxic. Pregnant women should avoid except as a culinary spice.

Turmeric (Curry): Healers in India have used turmeric for healing for thousands of years. Western herbalists are just starting to realize its healing properties. It has antibacterial action that prevents food from spoiling and it can be used to prevent bacterial infections on minor cuts and scrapes. Used topically on the face it helps in treating acne and oily skin. It is used as a digestive aid and can fight intestinal parasites. It can protect your liver, treat arthritis, reduce cholesterol and may inhibit the growth of lymphoma tumor cells.

Uva Ursi: Uva Ursi has been used as a diuretic and urinary antiseptic for more than 1000 years across many cultures. It has been shown to cure urinary tract infections that did not respond to antibiotics. It is also used to treat bloating caused by PMS, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and to heal minor wounds. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Valerian: Valerian root is primarily used to calm restlessness and anxiety and to overcome mild insomnia. It is used as an antispasmodic, a mild tranquilizer, and has been prescribed for exhaustion, tension headaches, bronchial spasms and lingering coughs. It is sometimes used as a muscle relaxant to treat pain. Do not take during pregnancy. It is considered nature's sleeping pill. Experts recommend taking 450-900 mg up to 2 hours before bed.

Witch Hazel: Witch Hazel can be found in pretty much every drug store and is used in many over-the-counter products, including Tucks, Preparation H Cleansing Pads and other hemorrhoid treatments. The herb is a powerful astringent and is used in treatment of cuts, burns, scalds, bruises, inflammations, hemorrhoids and other skin conditions.