Antihistamine Mix – for hay fever (from ‘Drugs in Pots’ )
Hopefully last week’s brain mix started some synapses firing! This week’s recipe helps with hay fever symptoms. No one enjoys having their summer ruined by hay fever – itchy eyes, runny nose and feeling generally grotty. This mix contains echinacea, chamomile and lemon balm to soothe the allergic response that sparks off symptoms, while agrimony and ground ivy calm any inflammation, drying up secretions.
Ingredients (makes enough to fill a 500ml (17 fl oz) jar)
400ml (14 fl oz) plant glycerol
100ml (3.5 fl oz) alcohol (vodka or brandy)
250g (9 oz) each fresh or 100g (3.5 oz) dried agrimony, chamomile, Echinacea, lemon balm and ground ivy
How to make
First mix the glycerol and alcohol together, then place the herbs in a wide-necked jar and pour the mixture over the herbs.
Leave to macerate for at least 2-3 weeks, stirring daily, and then strain through a fine mesh sieve or muslin, or press using a wine press, making sure that you squeeze as much liquid from the herbs as possible.
Pour into dark, sterilized bottles, label carefully and store in a cool, dark place.
How to use
Take a teaspoon 3-6 times daily in a little water, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
