Sprains and Strains

Falls, lifting heavy objects, and the exercise of an unfamiliar sport are common causes of sprains and strains.

Symptoms of sprains:

* pain in the affected joint.

* rapid swelling of a joint, often accompanied by bruising.

* stiffness and difficulty moving a joint.

Symptoms of strains:

* sharp pain at the site of injury, followed by stiffness, tenderness and in some cases, swelling.

Hot baths with a stimulating herb added can increase the circulation to the area involved and therefore speed healing.

Rosemary or Thyme make an excellent addition to a bath, either for the whole body or just the feet.

To treat swelling caused by damaged to soft tissue, use a triple strength tea made from as many of the following herbs as possible:

Calendula

Chamomile

Comfrey leaf and root

Ginger

Mallow

Tansy

Wormwood

After infusing the herbs to make a tea, cool in the refrigerator and use to make a compress. Sprinkle distilled Witch Hazel on the compress, and apply as cold as possible.

Add fresh cool herbs to the compress as it warms.