Category Archives: Herbal Wisdom

Herbal First Aid Kit

First Aid, Herbal Wisdom, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

For years many people have asked us, “What do you use in your house and when travelling to keep so healthy and avoid the medical route and drugs ?” I have finally put this  article, published years ago in some herbal magazines,  on my own website!

With this kit in your home and mini kit for travelling+ (also see Travel First Aid Kit at end), you will have tools on hand to treat most health challenges!

MORE INFO on any product or personal health issues?  Please Contact Lorene Benoit .   As product links, names (different in US and Canada), and availability all change, contacting Lorene is best option. We can also help you order any of these, receive the best prices and personal assistance!

 

 

Herbal First Aid Suggestions by Lorene Benoit                                           BEd, MHH CHC, CI, CRA

1. Tei Fu Oil+

One drop internally:

  • respiratory and sinus congestion / infection
  • sore throat, cough
  • mental alertness
  • breath freshener
  • nausea, motion sickness

1-4 drops topically:

  • sore muscles
  • muscle spasms and cramps/ Charlie horses
  • headaches (on temple and at back of neck)
  • bites and stings
  • bruises
  • cold sores

Inhalation:

  • respiratory and sinus congestion and infection

* Tei Fu Massage Lotion also relieves pain, injuries, arthritis and relax muscles, but for traveling light, the pure oil can be used internally, plus added to any healthy carrier oil for massage!

2. Peppermint Oil+

One drop internally:

  • settles upset stomach / nausea
  • dispels gas from intestinal system, digestive aid
  • promotes mental alertness

One drop topically:

  • canker sores / cold sores (stings then numbs);
  • bites and stings
  • headaches (on temple and at back of neck)
3. Tea Tree Oil+
  • natural antiseptic, antifungal and disinfectant
  • promotes healing of cuts, burns, scrapes, and bruises and sunburn
  • stimulates rapid growth of healthy tissue
  • internal douche and enema for yeast infections
  • kills head lice, add to NS concentrate & use as shampoo
4. Garlic ( NSP High Potency Tablets)
  • natural antibiotic in high potency odor controlled tablet
  • fights viral and fungal infections
  • helps lower blood pressure
  • improves circulation
  • helps expel parasites

Fresh garlic can be used in the following ways:

  • in ears to fight ear infections
  • on chest for respiratory congestion (use oil, salve or herbal poultice as barrier to prevent skin burning)
  • on wounds to prevent infection
5. Aloe Vera Gel+
  • burns and sunburns
  • scrapes, minor injuries
  • chapped skin
  • diaper rash
  • combine with NSP Lavender EO to speed healing, lessen inflammation
6. Lobelia+
  • bronchial dilator, healthy “puffer” substitute for asthma
  • opens lymphatic channels/ helps swollen lymph nodes
  • relaxes spasms: bronchial, stomach, bowel, muscles, uterine, heart
  • relaxes nerves and helps reduce pain
  • helps induce vomiting when taken in larger doses; allays vomiting in very small doses – Lobelia is truly a “thinking” herb
  • fills nicotine receptor sites to help stop smoking
  • Anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial: especially effective for microbes involving respiratory system.
7. Capsicum (Cayenne Pepper)+
  • stimulates blood flow
  • normalizes blood pressure, whether high or low
  • helps body to expel mucous
  • high Vit. C content helps colds
  • takes pain away for sore throat if gargled, then swallowed
  • helps for physical shock in accident victims
  • helps stop severe bleeding and hemorrhaging, externally and internally

Tei Fu Oil/ Lobelia/ Capsicum can be combined topically to relieve pain and relax muscles for subluxated neck and arthritis.

8. AL-J
  • allergies
  • respiratory decongestant- helps clear and strengthen lungs & bronchioles
  • helps settle stomach and digestion
  • pneumonia and other respiratory infections – combine with Oregon Grape or # 12
9. Licorice Root
  • promotes stamina and endurance by feeding adrenals to balance them and enable production of natural cortisone
  • helps stabilize blood sugar
  • prevent mood swings, and dizziness
  • helps overcome sugar cravings
  • helps drug and alcohol withdrawal
  • soothing & healing  for ulcers
  • helps with anorexia
  • mild decongestant and expectorant for dry cough
10. Probiotics+

Lorene works with 5 excellent probiotics: Probiotic Eleven, Bacillus Coagulans+, Bifidophilus Flora Force, Acidophilus Bifidophilus & Children’s Probiotics. 

Email her for a comparison chart or book a consultation to set up your specific program. All quality probiotics help rebuild Microbiome and: 

  • keep colon in optimum working order by ensuring probiotic bacterial growth
  • contain prebiotics to ensure growth of probiotics (pro life)
  • renew friendly flora which is destroyed by antibiotics, external environmental toxins & internal toxins
  • help control yeast levels
  • help keep bowel elimination working properly, which elevates immune response
11. Liquid Chlorophyll
  • natural deodorizer to help eliminate odour and toxins from the inside out: smelly feet , bowel movements, and bad breath
  • blood builder: increases oxygen and hemoglobin  levels in blood / helps anemia
  • good drink during labour, provides energy and minerals
  • disinfects injuries to help them heal, good for fighting infections
  • helps alkalize blood stream from acidic food, stress & toxins
  • contains no calories, sugar or chemicals, inexpensive, and tastes great!
12. Echinacea & Golden Seal
  • Combination makes this formula a powerful infection fighter / antiseptic / immune stimulant combination

Echinacea

  • non-specific immune stimulating effect to help body contain infection
  • helps to produce white blood cells and antibodies

Golden Seal

  • tones gastro/intestinal/lung and stomach- KING of mucous membranes
  • helps improve digestive and all liver functions
  • diabetics – helps lower blood sugar levels (if used by hypoglycemics, add Licorice Root or use Oregon Grape)
  • topically helps heal injury, infections for cuts, scrapes, abcesses

(also see Oregon Grape – is comparable to Golden Seal, less expensive and not endangered)

Echinacea / Golden Seal combined with Capsicum and Lobelia

  • dilute with water and gargle for sore throat, then swallow
13. HRP-C (CA) / VS-C (US)+
  • builds natural immunity to combat all viruses, fungus, parasites and candida
  • helps draw out impurities from liver
  • helps detoxify heavy metals (post dental amalgam removal, vaccines, metal toxicity)
  • One of the BEST for all viruses, including Herpes, Shingles, Colds, Flus
14. Vitamin C:   Time Release 1000mg capsules or 500mg/ tablets or Vit C with Zinc Lozenges
  • neutralizes toxins and chemical poisonings, including mercury
  • free radical scavenger, antioxidant
  • increases immunity;  helps prevent and get over colds, flu
15. Silver Guard, Silver Shield, Silver Gel+, Silver Solution 18-24 ppm
Contact Lorene Benoit to determine best for you.
  • All can be internally and externally safely to kill over 600 bacteria viruses and molds
  • All benefits of colloidal silver but many times more effective
  • Cannot overdose (no blue skin argylosis with these!)
  •  great anti-infection for everything from airborne to digestive and parasitical
  • See many uses & testimonies for Silver
16. Ginger+
  • relieves upset stomach, indigestion, cramps, flatulence, and diarrhea
  • stimulates circulation to help relieve pain and inflammation
  • relieves motion sickness, morning sickness, and nausea
17. Pau D’Arco Lotion
  • relieves itching and pain
  • helps with acne, eczema,psoriasis
  • poison ivy
  • snakebites
  • wounds
  • boils, fungal infections,
  • hemorrhoids
  • Can add Authentic Essential Oils for additional healing
18. Cascara Sagrada (Sacred Healing Bark)
  • herbal laxative, works by increasing peristalsis–
  • stimulates secretions in the entire digestive system including the liver, gallbladder, stomach and pancreas
  • promotes the growth of friendly bacteria in the colon
  • the longer you use it, the less you need – the opposite of OTC drug laxatives
  • Lorene’s preferred use in in formulas such as LBS or LB-X.
19. Passion Flower
  • herbal sedative that induces relaxation
  • relieves muscle tension and anxiety
  • relaxes smooth muscles of digestive tract
  • helps treat stress, headaches due to nervous tension, and insomnia
  • Many people choose to use in formula such as HPV, which combines Passion Flower with Hops and Valerian.

Travel First Aid  Kit

For travel to tropical or overseas destinations, we take the following:

  • #1 Tei Fu
  • #2 Peppermint
  • #3 Tea Tree
  • #5 Aloe Vera Gel
  • #6 Lobelia
  • #7 Capsicum (can just take 10 capsules – a little goes a long way)
  • #10 Probiotics- Bacillus Coagulans requires no refrigeration
  • #13 HRP-C or VS-C for infection
  • #15 Silver Gel &/or Liquid
  • #16 Ginger

PLUS:

  • Digestive Enzymes (CA) / Food Enzymes (US) – take 1 with each meal unless meal is just peeled fruit. The  HCl acid, pancreatin, and other enzymes help destroy parasites and to prevent intestinal disorders of all types including Montezuma’s Revenge, Thai Trots & other traveller’s food poisoning.
  • One of the following for diarrhea, constipation, colic:

UC3-J  (Slippery Elm, Marshmallow, Plantain, Bugleweed, Rose Hips, Chamomile), OR Slippery Elm OR Psyllium Hulls Combo: take as needed. More effective to open capsules and make tea, or bulk Psyllium Hulls Combo.

  • You can also use any of the above as a drawing poultice – open capsule and add enough water to make paste. Hemorrhoids, take as above or as suppository. Promotes growth of intestinal bacteria.
  • Can be used for constipation, as added fibre taken with lots of water.
  • Activated Charcoal (US)– food poisoning, parasites, intestinal cramps. Adsorbs toxins and takes them out via the bowel. Take 2-3 capsules as needed.

The following are additional possibilities, but the above 13 items usually cover everything and all fit into a small pouch. Small ziplock baggies and film canisters work well. You likely won’t use them all – keep them well stored in your Travel First Aid Kit and they will be on hand when you need them and ready for your next trip. Also useful to have on hand for home use.

  • AD-C – Chinese formula to restore Chi – Jet Lag, Swelling, Pain, Anti-Depressant

Take 1 every 2 hours going, take 2 every two hours on return flight to prevent or lessen jet lag. Also used for any “blocked chi” conditions, including headaches, muscle or joint pain, swellings, especially with sudden onset.

  • Lavender Essential Oil – anti-inflammatory, useful for burns, sores, relaxant promotes sleep, anti-microbial (good choice for spritzer). Other Oils in KIT are wonderful for First Aid – zip lock them!

*Special note Silver Guard: 1 large bottle of the Silver 473 ml. unopened in packed luggage, can be used upon arrival- 1 tsp/1 capful each per day. You can also put some in a spray bottle (under 100 ml) to take on the plane and spray to breathe and protect your throat while enroute to prevent “Germ-laden airplane air sickness”, as I call it. If you don’t want to do the spray, the gel can also be dabbed in the nostrils to prevent airborne bugs; the tube is 85 ml, so you can take it on plane in a zip lock baggie.The Gel is wonderful for any kind of rashes, sun burn or wounds.

To order any of these, please Contact Lorene Benoit  for best prices and personal assistance. Lorene will help you order, and can book a private class to ensure you are confident in how to use these.

Herbal Intensive August, 2017

Courses and Events, Herbal Wisdom, , , ,

Herbal Intensive: What, Why and How?

The Cowichan Valley supports a lush growth of plants that have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, as well as for food. Join us to  study indigenous, wild, and  cultivated botanical with a Master Herbalist who has more than 35 years experience.

Friday, August 4th  – Monday August  7th, 2017

In this 3 1/2   day Intensive you will learn:

Ø       introduction to botanical terms

Ø       identification of common weeds & cultivated herbs

Ø       harvesting, drying and storage

Ø       doctrine of signatures

Ø       medicine wheel & plant energy

You will also learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting:

Ø       Poultices, fomentations and compresses

Ø       Infusions,  decoctions and juices

Ø       Sweat baths, inhalations

Ø       Herbal oils and salves

Ø       Enemas and douches

Ø       Tinctures, herbal vinegars

Ø       Preparations for eyes, teeth, sinus and nose

Ø       Glycerites, syrups and more…

Someone might get a poultice applied; another a compress. Faces often contort as we taste the various decoctions!

We learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting.

Includes: 1/2 day Medicine Wheel Workshop, August 4th, 1-4 pm

Ø     Understand the 4 element model that has endured from ancient cultures around the world

Ø     Learn to apply this to 4 pillars of health:

  • physical
  • spiritual
  • mental
  • emotional

Ø      Learn to understand  herbal properties and actions

You can take Medicine Wheel Workshop on its own for $50, (contact our office). This is included for those attending the Intensive.

What past participants have to say:

“When is your next Intensive? I know some people who want to take this course. I loved it and learned so much, as well as feeling refreshed before heading back to my busy life and health business.” 
Cheryn Donaldson McInnis, Specialized Instructor & Practitioner SIP and Kinisiology, Vancouver, BC

One trained practitioner from Calgary, Alberta wrote this in her evaluation:
“I learned to identify herbs out in the field, herbs which I have used with people for many years but never knew what they looked like.  It was great to see them in their natural habitat.  It helped me get to know them better as living beings! ”
Monica Hirai, Herbal & Homeopathic Consultant,  Calgary, AB.

“I was one of the lucky participants, and it was so worth the time and cost. The setting was lovely, the other participants were generous in sharing their own experiences, the food was delicious, and the learning was boundless! Lorene is a born teacher, and the breadth of her expertise is amazing to me. This was just the workshop I needed to get me started in my own learning about herbs. Thank you!” 
Miriam S. Duncan, BC

“I can only encourage everyone to attend this inspiring & educational event. Once you embark on this opportunity to identify, smell, and work with a wide variety of herbs you will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the healing powers herbs have to offer. The medicine wheel and other teachings on all pillars of health will bring you closer to nature and discovering your true inner self – reminding you the importance of incorporating all aspects of life into your daily living to achieve well-being. Take advantage of this event held in a beautiful paradise – only a walk away from a crystal clear river, taught by a very knowledgeable and successful instructor & provided with delicious meals fresh from the garden!  ”           
Monica Franey, BSc RN, Annapolis Valley, NS

More comments can be read on the Herbal Intensive 2012 , and Herbal Training 2013 (comments on Sunscreen & Salves) .    

Join us to experience the healing powers we have been provided with by getting in touch with herbs. Feel the peace of nature seep into your cells, guided by one of Canada’s leading herbal experts,  Master Herbalist and Healer of over 30 years.

On beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia – build a holiday of your lifetime around this event! Please contact our office for posters with details.

You will keep a minimum of three herbal products you help make.

 

Investment: $350  paid by July 14th & save $100 

                     $450 after July 14th 

Includes: ½ day Medicine Wheel Workshop Fri,  3  full days Sat. Sun. Mon, all supplies, samples, and organic lunches.

Medicine Wheel workshop only $50

Registration closes July 28th   $50 of registration fee is non-refundable

 

About the Instructor: Lorene Benoit is a Health Educator with a Bachelor of Education in Biology and Physical Education. She has a Masters of Holistic Health; Certifications as Herbal Consultant, Iridologist, Contact Reflex Analyst and several Body-Mind Healing modalities.  She has engendered nutrition, lifestyle management and natural therapies for more than 30 years. Her passion is empowering people through down to earth education of   their own bodies, herbs and health on all levels.  In her vision to help people move towards optimum health, she offers consultations in her Vancouver Island office, writes and travels extensively to lecture and teach, and promote her book: The Paw Paw Program, a natural approach to cancer and health optimization.  This annual intensive is a favourite, where all the connections of healing come together in nature!  

This course is on 5 wild and cultivated acres within the temperate rain forest of Vancouver Island, registered as a Conservation Steward of the Cowichan Community Land Trust, with over 300 plant species!

5175 Bills Road, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 6S7, Canada

Register by phone: 250 748-6802  or

by email: Lorene@NaturalPathRemedies.com or                                                         TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com

 

A list of local accommodations, B&Bs, or camping options & other activities available to help you stay and enjoy the Cowichan Valley paradise!

Food & Supplement Quality

Diet, Herbal Wisdom, Membership, , , , , , , , ,

Why Bother to Supplement?

Dr. James Scala, who was a nutritional doctor for Mount Everest expeditions,  shares the statistic that over 60% of all deaths are related to poor diet. “…over 5 people in America die every 2 minutes from an illness that proper nutrition could have either prevented completely or put far into the future.”

To think that 60% of all deaths could be prevented if we only put enough nutrition into our bodies is mind boggling. In ‘developed’ countries, we have a food abundance and yet we are starving to death! How can that be? Here are 7 answers.

1. Much of the foods we eat today are empty of nutrition. We are eating too much overly processed foods, frankenstein GMO foods,  poor quality foods, and too little natural foods in proper ratios.

2. Agricultural practices have interfered with plants’ abilities to convert raw elements from the earth into bioavailable minerals and amino acids. Our plants are mineral and amino acid deficient.

3. Our society is trained to turn to medical prescriptions to solve the diseases we are becoming afflicted with. All drugs have harmful side effects that rob our immune systems from doing their job of sustaining our health.

4. We have forgotten that it is energy from the sun, from exercise, from love, from unprocessed foods with nutrients, minerals, amino acids, vitamins, essential fatty acids that will keep our bodies healthy and strong, as well as help our bodies recover from any illness we may be afflicted with. So nutrition in our present day is totally disregarded as the solution to all diseased conditions.

5. Dr. Scala stated that baby boomers may be the last generation to have increased longevity, and that their children will have a reduced average life span. He also said that with optimum nutrition, we should be living to 120 years!

6. Dr. Scala formulated the SynerPro (Synergystic Protectors) concentrate for NSP over 25 years ago, way ahead of his time. This concentrate contains broccoli, cabbage, carrot, red beet, rosemary, tomato, turmeric, grapefruit & orange bioflavonoids, and hesperidin. As detailed in Lorene Benoit’s book: The Paw Paw Program, pages 175 – 180 these phytonutrients and phytochemicals are powerhouses for healthy cells. The concentrate blend adds nutrition, energy & enhances absorption of the SynerPro B Complex and SynerPro Calcium- Magnesium.  Years after his formulations, mainstream started expounding the benefits of lycopenes in tomatoes, anti-inflammatories in turmeric, flavonoids in rosemary, etc.

7. Benoit’s 284 page book contains great wisdom on correct diet for building health, no matter what condition a person has. Her Case Studies & Testimonials answer many questions that clients have had. Recipes to start making healthier choices are found in Chapter 10.

 

How to Supplement?

Many people are choosing to make improved food choices, as well as supplementing their intake with vitamins, minerals, herbs and supplemental superfoods. A good decision!  But far too many people end up spending too much money on worthless supplements.

The missing factor is quality control. Not all supplements are  the same.  Diligent research and tests from independent labs such as Brunswick, show that only 15% of nutritional & herbal companies actually have in the bottle what is printed on the label. That is because 85% of all supplements on the market are made by 3rd party companies. In other words, a company takes another company’s products and sticks their own labels on it, then sells them.  There is no quality control here.

Nature’s Sunshine is second to none in quality. Our standards are so consistent that we get results. Nature’s Sunshine has more than the required certifications as they decided in 1972  to invest in quality control, in addition to research & development. Nature’s Sunshine goes so far that they make their own capsules, so they know they are free from fillers and questionable ingredients. Pure,  Potent and Proven for over 50 years.

Nature’s Sunshine does not own any farms and therefore they are in no way obligated to sell products that may be of lesser quality. Quality is never compromised because of bad crops, harvesting, drying, or storage. They are free to choose the best quality from around the world, and they do.

One example is Kelp, which comes from Nova Scotia. 600  tests are performed on this one plant before it is released for production. One of these testing procedures is Geiger counter testing for radioactivity.  All products are manufactured in the Utah state of the art manufacturing facility, where every single batch of herbs is fully tested. All test samples are kept for 6 years. Having an organic or wild crafted label means nothing if this degree of testing is not performed. NSP is above and beyond organic; it is potent!

We are very proud to  educate & distribute a product line that demonstrates such a high  level of  sincere integrity. If this message reaches you and you are not a member of Nature’s Sunshine please contact us to start to get results with your nutritional program!

Herbal Intensive July 29- August 1st, 2016

Courses and Events, Herbal Wisdom, , , , ,
Some of the herbs - can you name them?
Some of the herbs – can you name them?

Herbal Intensive: What, Why and How?

The Cowichan Valley supports a lush growth of plants that have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, as well as for food. Join us to  study indigenous, wild, and  cultivated botanical with a Master Herbalist who has more than 35 years experience.

Friday, July 29th  – Monday August  1st, 2016

In this 3 1/2   day Intensive you will learn:

Ø       introduction to botanical terms

Ø       identification of common weeds & cultivated herbs

Ø       harvesting, drying and storage

Ø       doctrine of signatures

Ø       medicine wheel & plant energy

You will also learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting:

Ø       Poultices, fomentations and compresses

Ø       Infusions,  decoctions and juices

Ø       Sweat baths, inhalations

Ø       Herbal oils and salves

Ø       Enemas and douches

Ø       Tinctures, herbal vinegars

Ø       Preparations for eyes, teeth, sinus and nose

Ø       Glycerites, syrups and more…

Someone might get a poultice applied; another a compress. Faces often contort as we taste the various decoctions!

We learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting.

Includes: 1/2 day Medicine Wheel Workshop, July 29th, 1-4 pm

Ø     Understand the 4 element model that has endured from ancient cultures around the world

Ø     Learn to apply this to 4 pillars of health:

  • physical
  • spiritual
  • mental
  • emotional

Ø      Learn to understand  herbal properties and actions

You can take Medicine Wheel Workshop on its own for $50, (contact our office). This is included for those attending the Intensive.

 

What past participants have to say:

“When is your next Intensive? I know some people who want to take this course. I loved it and learned so much, as well as feeling refreshed before heading back to my busy life and health business.” 
Cheryn Donaldson McInnis, Specialized Instructor & Practitioner SIP and Kinisiology, Vancouver, BC

One trained practitioner from Calgary, Alberta wrote this in her evaluation:
“I learned to identify herbs out in the field, herbs which I have used with people for many years but never knew what they looked like.  It was great to see them in their natural habitat.  It helped me get to know them better as living beings! ”
Monica Hirai, Herbal & Homeopathic Consultant,  Calgary, AB.

“I was one of the lucky participants, and it was so worth the time and cost. The setting was lovely, the other participants were generous in sharing their own experiences, the food was delicious, and the learning was boundless! Lorene is a born teacher, and the breadth of her expertise is amazing to me. This was just the workshop I needed to get me started in my own learning about herbs. Thank you!” 
Miriam S. Duncan, BC

“I can only encourage everyone to attend this inspiring & educational event. Once you embark on this opportunity to identify, smell, and work with a wide variety of herbs you will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the healing powers herbs have to offer. The medicine wheel and other teachings on all pillars of health will bring you closer to nature and discovering your true inner self – reminding you the importance of incorporating all aspects of life into your daily living to achieve well-being. Take advantage of this event held in a beautiful paradise – only a walk away from a crystal clear river, taught by a very knowledgeable and successful instructor & provided with delicious meals fresh from the garden!  ”           
Monica Franey, BSc RN, Annapolis Valley, NS

More comments can be read on the Herbal Intensive 2012 , when I had time to post them.    

Join us to experience the healing powers we have been provided with by getting in touch with herbs. Feel the peace of nature seep into your cells, guided by one of Canada’s leading herbal experts,  Master Herbalist and Healer of over 30 years.

On beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia – build a holiday of your lifetime around this event! Please contact our office for posters with details.

You will keep a minimum of three herbal products you help make.

 

Investment: $350  paid by July 20th & save $100 

                     $450 after July 20th 

Includes: ½ day Medicine Wheel Workshop Fri,  3  full days Sat. Sun. Mon, all supplies, samples, and organic lunches.

Medicine Wheel workshop only $50

Registration closes July 25th   $50 of registration fee is non-refundable

 

About the Instructor: Lorene Benoit is a Health Educator with a Bachelor of Education in Biology and Physical Education. She has a Masters of Holistic Health; Certifications as Herbal Consultant, Iridologist, Contact Reflex Analyst and several Body-Mind Healing modalities.  She has engendered nutrition, lifestyle management and natural therapies for more than 30 years. Her passion is empowering people through down to earth education of   their own bodies, herbs and health on all levels.  In her vision to help people move towards optimum health, she offers consultations in her Vancouver Island office, writes and travels extensively to lecture and teach, and promote her book: The Paw Paw Program, a natural approach to cancer and health optimization.  This annual intensive is a favourite, where all the connections of healing come together in nature!  

This course is on 5 wild and cultivated acres within the temperate rain forest of Vancouver Island, registered as a Conservation Steward of the Cowichan Community Land Trust, with over 300 plant species!

5175 Bills Road, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 6S7, Canada

Register by phone: 250 748-6802  or

by email: Lorene@NaturalPathRemedies.com or                                                         TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com

 

A list of local accommodations, B&Bs, or camping options & other activities available to help you stay and enjoy the Cowichan Valley paradise!

Turmeric Curcumin with Black Pepper

Antioxidants, Bone Health, Herbal Wisdom, , , , , , , , , , ,

Nov. 2018 Update: Same product, same quality, name changed from CureQMin BP to Turmeric Curcumin, for ease of identification.

Cindy Klement, Master Nutritionist presented at the Canadian NSP Herbal  Conference. We learned that the new Turmeric Curcumin contains  a concentrated extract from the fruit of black pepper, piper nigrum. This increases  the absorption of the concentrated curcuminoids  from turmeric and therefore the effectiveness  by 2000%. There is no Turmeric on the market that competes with this Nature’s Sunshine brand. The curcuminoid content of 2 capsules equals as much as 200 of some competitor brands, when tested by approved independent labs.

I love Nature’s Sunshine products as they are the most superior herbal products on the market. Turmeric has been studied for powerful properties that have a beneficial effect on pain and inflammation of all types. This article on Herbs Are Effective – 5000 years of science highlights some studies.

Each capsule contains Curcuma longa (curcumin) rhizome 550 mg, Piper nigrum (black pepper) fruit extract (50:1) 2.5 mg.

The 50:1 means it is concentrated 50 times.

Please contact Benoit Health Education to order the best at the best prices, whichever country you live in; we can guide you to optimum health!

Top Ten Healing Herbs in Your Garden

Courses and Events, Herbal Wisdom, , , ,

 

Come out to learn some the best plants for food, nutrition and herbal first aid. You will learn how to use herbs & weeds for safe sunscreens, wound healing, wasp & bee stings, fever, colds, salads and more. If you have your own garden there may be some plants to take home. Can you identify some from this photo?

100_1975

Lorene Benoit, Master Holistic Health and Master Herbalist, will share her expertise from working  with medicinal plants for 35 years. Classes in her Glenora garden the first three consecutive Thursdays of September from 4-6 pm. Be prepared to use all your senses to experience the healing value nature provides.

$12 per session or $30 for all three classes.

PRE-REGISTER by phoning office #250-748-6802  with your complete name and phone number  OR emailing Lorene@NaturalPathRemedies.com.

For instructions to the Herbal Sanctuary, see: NaturalPathRemedies.com

 

 

Herbs ARE Effective – Science Recognizes 5000+ Years History

Cancer, Heart Health, Herbal Wisdom, Vaccines, , , , , , , , , ,

Below are 3 quotes from learned people that give us food for thought about keeping an open mind and looking outside the box on many “accepted” ideas:

“This ‘telephone’ has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us.” – Western Union internal memo, 1876

“I think there is world market for maybe five computers” -Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943

“640K ought to be enough for anybody.” – Bill Gates, 1981

It is as hard to believe that these statements were taken seriously,  as it that people once believed that the world was flat. Or that rampant cell growth, aka cancer,  can only be treated with surgery, chemical poisons or radiation. This gives you some idea why the title of Lorene Benoit’s book on healing is named:  The Paw Paw Program – A “Christopher Columbus” Approach to Cancer – The World IS Round and Cancer CAN Be Treated Naturally.

Having  been in the natural health field since 1974, and seriously using herbs since 1980, it is very heartening to see science supporting traditional healing more every day. Not that I need the proof, having seen life changing results with natural healing for thousands of people,  but this may help move the public toward a better understanding of why herbal healing is still around after more than 5000 years. And why it is important to look outside the box and learn to take more control of our own health for a healthier, happier life!

New research from Thailand indicates curcumin may be as effective as ibuprofen in relieving osteoarthritis pain.      

In a study involving 367 patients (mean age 60 years) with knee osteoarthritis, subjects were randomized into two groups who received either ibuprofen (1,200 mg/day) or a turmeric extract (75-85% total curcuminoids, 1,500 mg/day) for four weeks. Treatment efficacy was assessed via the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index for pain, stiffness and  function scores.

Comparison of WOMAC scores showed significant improvement from baseline in both the ibuprofen and curcumin groups, with no significant difference between the two groups. While both treatments were generally well tolerated, there were fewer reports of adverse gastrointestinal side-effects in the curcumin group. These findings are consistent with previous research showing curcumin to be similar or more effective than ibuprofen in efficacy and much safer for all forms of inflammation.

References: Kuptniratsaikul V, Thanakhumtorn S, et al. Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Clin Interv Aging 2014 Mar 20;9:451–8.doi:10.2147/CIA.S58535 
AlternComplement Med. 2009 Aug; 15 (8):891-7. doi: 10.1089/acm.2008.0186

Nature’s Sunshine Turmeric Curcumin Concentrated contains 400 mg of curcuminoids provided by the internationally recognized Curcumin C3 Complex®. This ingredient is patented for its unique composition ratio of the bioactive curcuminoids (95%) extracted from turmeric roots. The Curcumin C3 Complex® is highly regarded in the clinical literature for consistency, quality and integrity of the three main antioxidant and protective compounds found in turmeric root, collectively known as curcuminoids. It has the been the clinical trial material of choice for a significant number of research studies investigating its protective, antioxidant and inflammation – mediating benefits.

 

Stress is far worse for cardiovascular health than cholesterol will ever be

Dr. Stephen Sinatra ( no, not Frank) , MD, FACN tells us clearly shows that emotions have a tremendous effect on our physical health. He lists five of the most common negative emotions: Anger, Sadness, Heartbreak, Stress  and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). I love that last one – anytime enough people have similar challenges, an new “disorder” is created, usually to promote a new drug to treat the new disorder.

What these 5 stressful emotions have in common is that they all produce hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline and nor-adrenaline. Among other effects, these hormones  thicken the blood, and create inflammation. So instead of ingesting rat poison, aka blood thinners, consider reducing these negative emotions and supplementing your diet with  a good quality Nutri -Calm (US)/ Stress Formulas (CA)), which contain both herbs and B Vitamins. Besides helping reduce the physical effects of stress, this formula  also helps lower homocysteine levels related to Cardiovascular health.

Stress related emotions also decrease essential mineral such as Potassium  and Magnesium, two essential minerals which help regulate heart beat and kidney output. Chinese Mineral Chi Tonic is one of the best synergistic formulas to help balance these minerals AND deal with stress, while increasing our vital energy.

Drugs accomplish nothing long-term to reducing stress, but there are many things you can incorporate into your life that will. Read how Dr. Bruce Lipton has shown how just one emotion such as love can physically change our genetic fate.

One simple exercise to begin today is the Gratitude Attitude – a recent Harvard study stated that saying 3 specific things per day for which you are grateful have been shown to decrease our metabolic age by 10 years in only 21 days! Other tips for emotional healing are included in Chapter 6 of Lorene Benoit’s book: The Paw Paw Program – The “Christopher Columbus” Approach to Cancer – The World IS Round and Cancer CAN Be Treated Naturally.

 

Ten Scientific Studies Prove that Genetically Modified Food Can Be Harmful To Human Health

The data “clearly underlines adverse impacts on kidneys and liver, two of our major detoxifying organs, as well as different levels of damages to heart, adrenal glands, spleen and haematopoietic system,” reported Gilles-Eric Séralini, a molecular biologist at the University of Caen.

Human health, of course, is of primary import to us, but ecological effects are also in play. Ninety-nine percent of GMO crops either tolerate or produce insecticides. This may be the reason we see bee colony collapse and massive butterfly deaths.  If GMOs are wiping out earth’s pollinators, they are far more disastrous than the threat they pose to humans and other mammals.

 

Vitamin C works on chicken pox, measles, polio – and without harmful side effects.

Dr. Frederick Klenner graduated from Duke University School of Medicine in 1936. In the “Clinical Guide to the Use of Vitamin C”, Dr. Lendon H. Smith outlines numerous cases on how Dr. Klenner quickly cured a variety of viral diseases by the use of intravenous vitamin C.

He reports of a ten month old baby with high fever, watery nose, dry cough, red eyes and rash characteristic of measles. Dr Klenner gave the baby 1,000 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C every four hours and the temperature dropped, the cough stopped and the rash disappeared.

Another eight-year-old child with measles developed encephalitis, became stuporous and responded only to pain. He quickly cured the child by both intravenous and oral vitamin C.

A 23 year old man with mumps developed swollen testicles, the size of tennis balls, along with overwhelming pain. After 1,000 mg of intravenous vitamin C the pain subsided. During the next 24 hours he was given 2,000 mg of intravenous C every two hours. His fever returned to normal in 36 hours and he was up and about in 60 hours.

Dr. Lendon Smith describes how Klenner discovered that intravenous C could also quickly dry up chicken pox lesions and subdue viral hepatitis.

But Dr. Klenner’s most important study involved the great polio epidemic of 1948-50. He successfully treated 60 polio victims using intravenous doses of vitamin C, up to 200,000 mg every 12 hours for four days. None developed paralysis. He soon learned that the sicker the patient the higher the dose required.

So we need to ask ourselves:

  • are we prepared to accept age old remedies that are now being proven by “science”, and even those that have stood the test of millennium but may never get funded by big pharma to prove they work?
  • how simple and inexpensive ate these remedies  compared to the cost and damaging side effects of pharmaceuticals and mass vaccination with toxic ingredients?
  • what can we do to keep our immune systems strong so that we do not offer ourselves as a host to germs and viruses that we are all exposed to on a daily basis?
  • why would we not WANT to take safe and affordable steps to ensure our optimum health?

Time to be pro-active about healthy living and successful aging! You may choose to start by taking this simple Health Assessment, then  contact the author with your score to help develop a plan of action to improve your health on a daily basis. It is your life and your health – embrace it!

Q & A: Making Herbal Salve & Sun Screens

Herbal Wisdom, Questions and Answers, , , , , , , , , , ,

Questions:

How are you doing? Over here (in Holland) everything is going great. A lot of nice warm days.

I am still usisng herbal preparations learned at your Intensive 2011!
I wanted to make my own sunscreen and after sun lotion. I searched the internet for recipes, a lot of possibilities, but a lot of ingredients. I remembered you didn’t use that much. I can only remember you used aloe vera and lavender or mint oil?
Do you have a recipe?

My Mom is also wanting to make some more of that great salve you sent us. I have looked at my notes, but need some clarification on oils used, how long, what temperature? Can you help?

 

Answer:

I am so thrilled to see others across Canada and Europe, who have taken my Herbal Intensives using the knowledge and making their own herbal preparations AND teaching others!  It is very empowering to have this knowledge and to be able to not only avoid toxic skin products, but to help your family as the primary care-giver for most health challenges!

Sorry, but as you may remember I don’t use recipes much. As you found, they are often too picky, require too many ingredients, and have so many different options it is enough to boggle the mind, get hung up in analysis paralysis and not make anything!

In my courses, I have people make many different preparations using general guidelines, so they understand the basics and the process. Then they can experiment and be empowered to use what is available to them. This is what I call wild-crafting, based on what you have available, and knowing that nature changes from year to year. The results can be exceptionally healing, as both you, your Mom and hundreds of others have seen & experienced.

For professional herbal consulting, in which I want the same recipe, same measurements, dosages and strengths, every time,  I use Nature’s Sunshine. They have several million dollar labs and equipment to test for active chemicals, potency, purity and to adjust for nature’s differences. Their quality is exceptional, which is why I have used it as the mainstay of myworldwide professional consulting.

I still feel it is good to know how to make you own preparations for your own use, so here are some reminders. Having had the 3-4 days experience, this should bring it all back to you.

 

SUNSCREEN:

You are right, I mixed St. John’s Wort oil with Aloe Vera Gel, either by blending the fresh plant, or purchasing a good quality Aloe Vera Gel.  And yes, Lavender essential oil is good to add – mint might be too strong for the skin. Other essential oils that are good for the skin are: Patchouli and Geranium, and Rose Bulgaria. I have used the Nature’s Sunshine essential oils and often 1-3 drops is enough – a little drop of a quality, therapeutic oil can be amazing. This oil is also beneficial if you happen to overdo the sun, which you should try to avoid, but it can happen.

The St. John’s Wort oil is made by infusing the flowers & top few leaves in an oil, by placing them in a glass jar in sunny window 2 – 6 wks. until it turns quite red. Make sure the plant material is covered in oil so there is no spoilage. As far as carrier oil used to extract the herbal principles, you can use olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, sunflower seed, almond, apricot are all OK. Then strain. This oil can also be used in the Salve preparation.

You can also infuse some flowers this way, such as wild rose petals, calendula or bergamot. These are not the same therapeutic value as essential oils which require expensive equipement to get the essence of the flowers and herbs, but they can add some aroma and healing properties.

Note on Sun exposure

Of course, use common sense in sun exposure – we try to avoid too much between 11am – 3pm and cover up when in the sun for extended periods. Your sun exposure should relate to the latitude and consequent strength of the sun; time of year; and your skin pigmentation.

The first two S’s of the Slip, Slap and Slop campaign, which I believe originated in Australia are good: Slip on some protective clothing, Slap on a Hat. These 1st two are the most important. The 3rd – slop on sunscreen is not good! Unless it is a natural sunscreen. To slop on a bunch of toxic chemicals, then add heat to this, is creating a toxic stew on your skin – the largest organ of your body. It is very absurd. In Australia studies found that as sunscreen sales increased, so did melanoma rates!

Common sense will always win out about chemical non-sense.

 

SALVE:

Specific for your questions:

How much oil? Use enough oil to make sure all herbs are immersed or covered – this will depend of type size of pot.

Oven for 8-12 hours 100-150degrees? – the lowest temperature the better, under 120 degrees is best; a low heat crock pot can also be used. This is the quick oil method. You can also use the slower sun-infused method as with St. John’s Wort oil above if you plan several weeks in advance.

Herbs to use:

We use any or all of these herbs from our garden and yard, many of which you can probably find growing around your area. I have given latin names which are always best to use for correct identification:

Mullein   – Verbascum thapsus 
Plantain (ribwort) – Plantago lanceolata or Plantago ovatum
Comfrey leaves or root – Symphytum species
chickweed (has to be dried a bit more, as it is pretty juicy) Stellaria media
Calendula (petals only – dried 24hrs.) Calendula officionalis
St. John’s Wort – Hyericum perfolatum
Yarrow flowers or leaves – Achilles millefolium
Burdock leaves – Arcticum lappa

Remember they can be dried for 1 day before putting them in oil, to avoid water being in oil. The drier herbs (plaintain) may not need this step. If you do have water in the oil after straining, try to boil it off, or otherwise eliminate it, or your oil or salve will not last as long.

Then do you remember the proportions of beeswax to solidify the oil into a salve?

Approximately 28 grams beeswax to 300 – 450 ml. oil or for the Americans, 1  ounce to 11 – 16 ounces. The more beeswax the stiffer the salve.

Let me know how it goes!

And for others reading this, please contact us if YOU would like to experience making your own herbal preparations OR to order any of the NSP products at a direct discount price!

Upcoming Herbal Training, Sept. 7th, 2013

Courses and Events, Herbal Wisdom, , , , ,

This Friday – yes, I know it is short notice, we will WORK on the Medicine Wheel, which got a little trashed by …. now that’s a story…., then learn everything we have time to learn about that gorgeous, healing little plant called Calendula, alias Pot Marigold.

No time to say much more, so I can get this notice out right NOW, so you can be spontaneous and register right now! The cost, as you are going to be helping re-construct the Medicine Wheel, for about 45 minutes, is only $30 for the afternoon. Bring a 1/2 pint or 1 pint 3/4 full of your favourite healthy oil so you can take home your own Calendula oil and learn how to use it for so many things, you’ll be amazed.

And here is a little about an upcoming full day Sept. 7th.

Since 1999 Master Herbalist, Author and Educator Lorene Benoit has taught an Annual Herbal Intensive in Glenora. This summer the 4 day Intensive is being replaced by a one day workshop combining the Medicine Wheel with a mini course in harvesting and preparing a couple of medicinal herbs; focusing on oils and tinctures.

The Medicine Wheel is a model that integrates the four components of health: physical, spiritual, mental and emotional; the four actions of herbs, four directions, seasons and tastes. In Lorene’s book, The Paw Paw Program, that explains cancer prevention and natural approach, she covers the Four Pillars of Health, another aspect of the Medicine Wheel.

Benoit states, “Although I am over stocked on salves, glycerites, tinctures and oils made in previous classes, I have such a wealth of herbs in the gardens that I cannot resist making a few more preparations. Besides, with Health Canada’s ongoing regulation of what we can or cannot buy, it is critical to know how to make these remedies ourselves. ”

Join us Sat. Sept. 7th, 9am- 4 pm to learn from one of Canada’s leading herbal experts of 35 years. Investment in your health is only $100; $85 if paid by Aug. 31st. Call the office for details or to register.

Herbal Intensive July 26 – 29, 2013

Courses and Events, Herbal Wisdom, , ,

 

Herbal Intensive: What, Why and How?

The Cowichan Valley supports a lush growth of plants that have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, as well as for food. Join us to  study indigenous, wild, and  cultivated botanical with a Master Herbalist who has 35 years experience.

In this 3 1/2   day Intensive you will learn:

Ø       introduction to botanical terms

Ø       plant families and identification

Ø       medicine wheel & plant energy

Ø       drying and storage

Ø       doctrine of signatures

Ø       harvesting

You will also learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting:

Ø       Poultices, fomentations and compresses

Ø       Infusions,  decoctions and juices

Ø       Sweat baths, inhalations

Ø       Herbal oils and salves

Ø       Enemas and douches

Ø       Tinctures, herbal vinegars

Ø       Preparations for eyes, teeth, sinus and nose

Ø       Glycerites, syrups and more…

Someone might get a poultice applied; another a compress. Faces often contort as we taste the various decoctions!

We learn how to prepare and apply herbs in a practical and fun “hands on” setting.

Plus: 1/2 day Medicine Wheel Workshop, July 26th, 1-4 pm

Ø     Understand the 4 element model that has endured from ancient cultures around the world,

Ø     Learn to apply this to 4 pillars of health:

  • physical,
  • spiritual,
  • mental and
  • emotional.

Ø      Learn to understand  herbs and conditions

You can take Medicine Wheel Workshop on its own for $30, (contact our office). This is included for those attending the Intensive.

What past participants have to say:

One trained practitioner from Calgary, Alberta wrote this in her evaluation:
“I learned to identify herbs out in the field, herbs which I have used with people for many years but never knew what they looked like.  It was great to see them in their natural habitat.  It helped me get to know them better as living beings! ”
Monica H.  Calgary, AB.

More testimonials:

I was one of the lucky participants, and it was so worth the time and cost. The setting was lovely, the other participants were generous in sharing their own experiences, the food was delicious, and the learning was boundless! Lorene is a born teacher, and the breadth of her expertise is amazing to me. This was just the workshop I needed to get me started in my own learning about herbs. Thank you!                                                                                                                       Miriam S. Duncan, BC

I can only encourage everyone to attend this inspiring & educational event. Once you embark on this opportunity to identify, smell, and work with a wide variety of herbs you will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the healing powers herbs have to offer. The medicine wheel and other teachings on all pillars of health will bring you closer to nature and discovering your true inner self – reminding you the importance of incorporating all aspects of life into your daily living to achieve well-being. Take advantage of this event held in a beautiful paradise – only a walk away from a crystal clear river, taught by a very knowledgeable and successful instructor & provided with delicious meals fresh from the garden!            

Monica F, Annapolis Valley, NS                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Join us to experience the healing powers we have been provided with by getting in touch with herbs. Feel the peace of nature seep into your cells, guided by one of Canada’s leading herbal experts,  Master Herbalist and Healer of over 30 years.

On beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia – build a holiday of your lifetime around this event! Please contact our office for posters with details.

You will keep a minimum of three herbal products you help make.

 

When?   Friday, July 26th – Monday July 29th, 2013

 

Investment: $475 includes: ½ day Medicine Wheel Workshop Fri, plus 3 full days Sat, Sun, Mon, all supplies, samples, and organic lunches.

Early Bird Discount for payment received by July 1st :  save $100!

Registration closes July 23rd     $50 of registration fee is non-refundable

Medicine Wheel only Friday July 26th 1-4 pm: $30.

About the Instructor: Lorene Benoit is a Health Educator with a Bachelor of Education in Biology and Physical Education. She has a Masters of Holistic Health; Certifications as Herbal Consultant, Iridologist, Contact Reflex Analyst and several Body-Mind Healing modalities.  She has engendered nutrition, lifestyle management and natural therapies for more than 30 years. Her passion is empowering people through down to earth education of   their own bodies, herbs and health on all levels.  In her vision to help people move towards optimum health, she offers consultations in her Vancouver Island office, writes and travels extensively to lecture and teach, and promote her book: The Paw Paw Program, a natural approach to cancer and health optimization.  This annual intensive is a favourite, where all the connections of healing come together in nature!  

These courses are being taught on 5 wild and cultivated acres within the temperate rain forest, and riparian habitat of the Cowichan River, Vancouver Island.

5175 Bills Road, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 6S7, Canada

Payment:   Money order can be mailed to Lorene Benoit at above address.

A list of local accommodations, B&Bs, or camping options & other activities available to help you stay and enjoy the Cowichan Valley paradise!

Register by calling: -748-6802  or

email: TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com

Participants in one of the herb gardens…

Over 300 species of plants out there!