runny eyes, scratching, vomiting or diarrhea. Veterinarian Judy Morgan, owner of Naturally Healthy


Pets, in Clayton, New Jersey, also uses herbs in her practice to alleviate food and environmental allergy symptoms. “They can be tinctures or poultices; one herb or a blended mixture. Some are applied externally, some internally.” Giving the proper dos- age for the size of the pet is vital.


She particularly likes calendula for hot spots, despite


its odor, because it’s antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral, followed by witch hazel to dry them, and then coconut oil or aloe to soothe and soften affected skin—plus Echinacea to boost the immune system. She uses ginger or peppermint to counteract nausea. “Many people think an allergic pet should be switched to a lamb and rice diet. In some cases, that makes dry, itchy, skin worse,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to know what they are allergic to before trying out new foods or herbal remedies. Find a holistic vet to work with.”


Morgan often prescribes a mixture of herbs for the best re- sults. “I like licorice because it works like a steroid without the side effects. Probiotics help keep gut bacteria and the immune system healthy. Parsley works well for dry, itchy, skin caused by a blood deficiency, or imbalance. “Parsley brings a protein, as well as several vitamins, to


the party,” notes Kimberly Gauthier, a dog nutrition blogger in Marysville, Washington. “It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and also great if your dog’s breath needs a freshness boost.” She suggests rosemary and thyme as ingredients in an antibacterial, antifungal salve; she mixes these essential oils with extra virgin coconut oil and beeswax to create paw balm. Morgan reminds us that essential oils can be harmful, even life-threatening, for cats. “If Kitty has itchy skin, lavender tea can be used as a rinse on cooperative cats,” she suggests. “For a less cooperative feline, chamomile tea as a drink or as leaves mixed into the food soothes itches.” Dohmen cautions, “Herbs and other homeopathic remedies or flower essences are medicine and should be given as a prescrip- tion by a qualified veterinarian.”


Connect with freelance writer Sandra Murphy at StLouis FreelanceWriter@mindspring.com.


Health Food Store 2186 3rd St #110 White Bear Lake


M-Th 9am – 8pm F- Sat 9am – 6pm Sun Noon – 5pm


Not JUST an Ordinary Health Food Store


• Essential Oils & Diffusers • Some Groceries • Kombuchu Tea • Knowledgeable staff • Community Resources • Health Events • Highest Quality: ~ Natural Supplements ~ Herbs


~ Skin and Hair Care Products ~ Dental Care Items ~ Soaps


$10 OFF for every $50 spent


$20 OFF for every $100 spent (does not include food purchases)


651-426-0101 SassafrasHealthFoods.com


Detoxify and Stimulate Your Immune System with Healthy Girls® Breast Oil


NEW customers receive a FREE spritzer vial with any purchase.


Joyce Sobotta


Certified Aromoatherapist & Reflexologist


Breast Health Presentations & Essential Oil Classes


Joyce@AromatherapyNaturesWay.com


AromatherapyNaturesWay.com 715-878-4474


www.facebook.com/unitynorthmn | www.unitynorthmn.org | (763) 754-6489 Community support for your spiritual path


natural awakenings March 2017 23


Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock.com


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32