9 Natural Health Essentials...

As-salaam alaikum.

Being a domestically capable woman requires preparedness. One should know (or be in the process of learning) a little bit about everything, because nearly every science and art is applicable to homemaking. When you take on the responsibility of managing a household, by default you become a doctor, herbalist, pharmacist, psychologist, secretary, chef, maid, motivational speaker, publicist... and the list goes on (smile). Keeping one's family happy and healthy is so much easier when one has access to everything they need.

These are a few things I always have on hand to preserve the health of my family:

1. Cayenne extract/cayenne powder is my most frequently used herb. Cayenne is an intense purifier when used for internal cleansing. I use the extract in lemon water during extended fasts and for the rare occasions in which someone in my household suffers from a cold. Cayenne is wonderful for circulation. It can help people with high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and any other circulatory issues. It has been reported by some herbalists that taking cayenne consistently throughout a heart attack or stroke helps lessen the impact of these traumas. I actually know someone who took cayenne during 3 heart attacks (another story for another day) and someone who took cayenne when she experienced stroke symptoms. Both lived and suffered very mild effects, if any. For this reason I always have cayenne extract at home and often in my purse in case an acquaintance experiences an emergency. Cayenne powder (just a little!) sprinkled in socks or gloves can protect against frostbite and helps keep one warm. Cayenne is also a staple in many of my recipes; it always gets "sprinkled in" somewhere whenever I cook.

2. Lemons are powerful detoxifiers. I drink lemon water often, and make a special spicy lemonade with cayenne extract for relief of colds, allergies, and mucous buildup. Lemons are antibacterial. The peels freshen garbage disposals. A splash of lemon enhances the flavor in many foods.

3. Arnica cream and tablets are homeopathic pain relievers. Arnica helps relieve muscle aches, tension headaches, and arthritis. Aspirin is not good for your body, but arnica can often be substituted. For those who experience difficulty swallowing pills, these tiny tablets literally melt under your tongue.

4. Dr. Bronner's soap is wonderful for overall hygiene. Perhaps the most popular scent is peppermint, but it also comes in lavender, eucalyptus and several other pleasing varieties. This soap can be used in a myriad of ways including bathing, shower gel, hand soap, shampoo, cleaning the house, etc., so it's convenient to keep a large bottle in your home. Dr. Bronner's soap has natural ingredients. (A word of caution: avoid the peppermint variety in the genital area and advise your family to do the same. You're welcome.)

5. Ginger improves digestion. It can be consumed as a delicious tea or chai, used in cooking sweet or savory dishes, or made into "ginger beer" (non-alcoholic). Candied ginger is not the ideal form to take due to its sugar content. However, if it lessens the hassle of convincing children to consume ginger in sufficient quantities, it's fine in moderation. Ginger helps ease indigestion, nausea, and other stomach ailments.

6. Red Clover tea or extract is a mild-tasting, but powerful blood cleanser. Taken on a regular basis, it clears the skin of acne and encourages the "Muslim glow". It's also good for female hormonal balance and several other ailments.

7. Red Raspberry tea or extract is a pleasant-tasting woman's "miracle herb". It regulates the menstrual cycle and diminishes uncomfortable premenstrual symptoms including uterine cramping. This can be mixed with red clover for a great woman's tonic.

8. Smooth Move Tea/Cascara Sagrada are laxative teas. When one eats according to "How to Eat to Live" they should not suffer from many constipation issues. However, there are those rare occasions when one allows their body to get out of whack. This tea will provide assistance in returning to normal. Plan to stay at home 8-16 hours after drinking it.

9. Poysian menthol inhalers and similar brands are available on amazon are very effective. These Thai inhalers do a great job of opening the sinuses and clearing stuffy noses. It is simple and inexpensive to make inhalers at home, but these are my favorite.

If you are blessed to be married:

10. Saw Palmetto is great for prostate health which is an issue for many men as they age.

Bonus: This should be obvious, but How to Eat to Live Books 1 & 2 are absolute "must-haves". These books are the foundation of good health and should be our primary reference guides. These books are our means of filtering any other dietary advice. If it is out of line with How to Eat to Live, it is out of line with truth.

These were just a few examples of products I find essential. These may or may not be useful to you. The secret to domestic engineering is learning what the specific needs of your family are. Take this list and customize it. Expand it. Get a quality herb book and consider taking herb, aromatherapy, massage, and cooking classes. Despite western beliefs, "homemaking" is an extraordinarily skilled career. In fact, it takes a greater variety of skills than any other job I can think of. Muslim wives do not sit at home idly. We remain studious, knowing that our knowledge and capability ensures the peace, contentment, and well-being of our family.