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torant, garlic tends to remove mucus from the throat. It is a natural antibiotic, inhibitory to yeast organisms as well. Most easily taken in capsules or “pearls,� garlic drops may particularly aid the expulsion of intestinal worms. More experimentation is needed to determine just which parasites respond most promptly to this common bulb. Golden Seal This herb grows plentifully in virgin forests of the United States. However, golden seal is becoming more scarce as a wild plant, and if cultivated, should be planted in well-fertilized soil. Abundant shade and good drainage will aid in its cultivation. Golden seal generally has a vasoconstrictive effect on the body. Blood vessels are tightened, improving conditions in which running secretions or catarrh are seen. In combination with bicarbonate of soda, golden seal may serve as a mouth wash for the relief of sores in the oral cavity, especially the gums. It may also have a styptic effect in certain cases of nosebleeds. Jewel Weed A beautiful late summer wild flower in the southern United States, jewel weed, or spotted touch-me-not, is a favorite habitat for hummingbirds. The fresh stem and leaves may be boiled in shortening to form an ointment for hemorrhoids. Weeping eruptions, such as poison ivy, may also respond to the plant juices rubbed on the affected skin at frequent intervals. Hops Dried leaves of the hops plant may be taken in capsule form or steeped for an herb tea. The alkaloid lupulon, present in the hops plant, is a sedative. In some scientific studies it has been shown to slow brain wave patterns. Hops tea is therefore valued when a person needs assistance to induce sleep. Chronic insomniacs may need several capsules. The strong hops flavor may be modified with a small amount of lemon or honey to make the tea more palatable. Honey Delicious as a food, honey is useful also in medicine. The high sugar concentration of pure liquid honey completely inhibits bacterial multiplication. Thus, honey is usually free of contamination by microorganisms, more than most natural substances. Honey may be used with other agents to prepare a natural cough syrup. It also is valued as a covering balm over skin infections. With its osmotic drawing power and bacterial inhibition honey may rapidly aid in wound