Oat fresh milky seed (Avena sativa)*

Strengthens and nourishes the nervous system because it is rich in minerals that are essential to the function of nervous tissue.  It is indicated for nervous exhaustion (burning the candle at both ends), sexual neurasthenia, and occipital pain extending toward the spine.  Oat reduces withdrawal effects from nicotine and caffeine.

Lemon Balm fresh herb (Melissa officinalis)*

A mild, flavorful remedy appropriate for children's colds, stomachaches and headaches.  Lemon balm is useful for mild depression, mild hypertension, herpes, and hyperthyroidism.  To make a tea of lemon balm place 2 teaspoons herb into 8 oz. very hot water and steep, covered, 20 minutes.  3-4 cups per day.

Hawthorn berry, leaf and flower (Crataegus monogyna)*

Indications include functional and organic heart weakness with pain, weak tonus of the heart muscle, angina, valvular insufficiency, mitral valve prolapse, heart murmur, venous stasis, poor capillary & venous integrity, and varicose veins.  Hawthorn lowers cholesterol levels, lowers blood pressure and prevents deposition of plaque on arterial walls.  This herb may potentiate other heart medications, i.e. digitalis.

Ginkgo leaf (Ginkgo biloba)*

Indicated in cases of chronic cerebral vascular insufficiency such as vascular insufficiency headaches, diabetic retinopathy, tinnitis, poor memory, and senility.  It has both bronchiodilator and anti-inflammatory properties useful in treating athsma.  Ginkgo is also used for peripheral arterial insufficiency, varicose veins, and impotence caused by impaired circulation.

Skullcap fresh herb (Scutellaria lateriflora)*

Indicated for nervous exhaustion, tremors & palsies, trigeminal neuralgia, and Parkinson's disease.  It is a nervine which strengthens depleted, irritated nervous systems.

Bacopa herb (Bacopa monnieri)*

An anti-inflammatory, thyroid stimulant, diuretic, and mild cardiotonic agent. Recent research indicates that it is useful for cognitive impairment, anxiety, and hypothyroidism. It is traditionally used for irritation of the genito-urinary, respiratory, and gastro-intestinal tracts.

Bibliography:

Bove, M.  An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children and Infants, Keats Pub. 1996

McIntyre, A.  The Herbal for Mother and Child, Element, 1992

Romm, A. J.  Natural Healing for Babies and Children, The Crossing Press, 1996

Winston, D.  Herbal Therapeutics - Materia Medica notes, HTSBM, 1980-1999