Friday, April 9, 2010

How to use joss and incense

"Incense and joss sticks are a convenient way for you to enjoy the aromas of fragrant plants whose essential oil can be extremely expensive."

Incense has been used for centuries to infuse the atmosphere of churches, temples and homes with scent. The word "incense" was first used to describe the resinous gums from certain trees but is now more widely used as a general term to describe any aromatic substance derived from grinding up dried plants. Incense can also be referred to as "joss."

The plants used to make incense are generally those whose essential oil is extremely expensive and difficult to extract; these are the plants whose fragrances tend to be strong and often overpowering in undiluted form.

Stimulate your senses
Burning incense can have a strong emotional effect. The delicate smoke and sweet aromas can also be used to create a relaxing or romantic mood, aid meditation, help disinfect living spaces, and mask unpleasant smells. Burning incense or joss is an inexpensive way to infuse your home with rich, potent scents.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Techniques of Herbal Medicine

Guide to herbal rememdies


"Herbal medicine uses many medical terms. The glossary below will introduce you to most of the expressions you'll come to understand completely over the posts."

Techniques of Herbal Medicine

  • Compress- A cloth soaked in an herbal infusion and pressed over a wound.

  •  Decoction- A hot or cold liquid made by boiling twigs and roots.

  • Ointment- A cream infused with the juice or essential oil of herbs.

  • Infusion- A hot or cold drink made from leaves and flowers of herbs.

  • Poultice- A bag of healing herbs that is pressed over the affected area.

  • Syrup- A decoction or infusion sweetened with honey or sugar.

  • Tinctre- A medicine of saokd herbs in alcohol. Avoid during pregnancy.

  •  Tonic- A drink that stimulates the lymphatic system and blood circulation.