Herbal Remedies

A remedy can be a single herb or a specially formulated combination of herbs. Single remedies are usually used for a single problem or symptom. A formula is given for more complex conditions usually following a consultation where your overall health is assessed.

Click on the links below to read more on the uses and benefits of herbal remedies. All are available in the K 2 Wellness Shop.




Methods of administering herbal remedies: Herbal remedies are expected to work within 2 to 3 days for acute problems but a much longer period of treatment, usually around 6 weeks, is necessary for chronic conditions.

Herbs chosen to be used in remedies are believed to be safe however individual sensitivities can occur so it is recommended that you contact your herbalist if you are experiencing side effects.


Which herb to take?


All are great as teas!



IBS Formula

 This herbal formula is designed to calm a sensitive and hyperactive digestive system with Chamomile, Filipendula and Bayberry as the main ingredients. These are supported by Wild Yam, Artichoke and Fennel having the effect of reducing bloating. cramping and diarrhoea. These herbs also have the effect of strengthening the digestive system in all its aspects of digestion, absorption and elimination. Sufferers of IBS are reminded that they need to take timeout and relax at mealtimes. Also avoid trigger foods.

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Stress Formula

This herbal combination is designed to calm and strengthen the nervous system when stress becomes an overwhelming problem. The main herbs are Skullcap, Crataegus and Avena. These herbs will strengthen, calm and relax the nervous system enabling the user to cope better in stressful situations. These herbs are supported by Gotu kola, Lavender and Licorice which are beneficial for associated effects of stress such as adrenal exhaustion, irritability and low immune system. People who are nervous or anxious need to spend time in a relaxed environment and to have timeout to practice relaxation techniques.

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Constipation formula

This formula is designed to improve the elimination action of the large bowel. The main herbs used here are Triphala, Cascara and Dandilion root for their laxative action. It is important that sufferers also keep well hydrated and have enough vegetables in their diet. Adding extra flaxseed or psyllium into the diet will help the bowel cleansing action. Supplementing with probiotics is also recommended. These three herbs are supported by Thyme, Bayberry and Cardamon which have the effect of reducing unwanted bacterias and yeasts in the bowel and counteract the any spasms likely to be induced by the laxatives. This formula should not be used in pregnancy.

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Antiviral formula

This herbal formula is used to treat cold and flu and also post viral fatigue or any other virally induced condition. For chronic conditions take with Olive leaf capsules. The main herbs are Echinacea, Elderflower and Honeysuckle for their antiviral and antibacterial effects. Sufferers are recommended to take a light diet, including vegetable soups but avoiding sweet foods, with plenty of fluids and rest. The supportive herbs are Boneset, Thyme and Cinnamon which are good for easing the symptoms of flu such as aches and pains, catarrh, fever and fatigue.

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Olive leaf

Olive leaf “is rapidly becoming recognised as a natural alternative to antibiotics” (Natural Life Review June’99). Helpful in the treatment of the common cold, flu, cold sores, ear infections, eye infections, nose and throat infections and impetigo. Recently, scientific research has shown that the active ingredient in olive leaf - oleuropein - has powerful healing properties and can fight bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that cause infection and disease. French biologists have discovered that olive leaf can also provide powerful relief from viruses and improvement in circulation.

It is well known that the oleuropein lowers blood pressure by increasing coronary flow. The powerful antioxidant effect of olive leaf extract also protects the heart and circulatory system from free radical damage. People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have reported a radical improvement when taking olive leaf extract internally and report more energy and a better sense of wellbeing. Other research indicates the use of olive leaf could be useful in cases of leaky gut and people with compromised immune systems. Olive leaf is a natural non-toxic immune system builder. It is a safe, highly effective food supplement.

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Vitex Agnus Castus

This herb regulates hormonal functions, promotes lactation and relieves pain and spasms. Studies support the effectiveness of this herb with gynecological problems, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), dysmenorrhoea as well as corpus luteum deficiency. The actions on the pituitary gland result in inhibition of prolactin secretion and normalization of the release of both follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) allowing ovulation and pregnancy. When treating infertility, chaste tree is continued for one to two years; it is discontinued if pregnancy occurs. It is a slow-acting herb, and usually takes quite a few months to show any reaction, except in the case of lactation, which usually improves within a few weeks. Some minor side effects have been reported when using this herb, such as itching, rash and stomach upset. This herb should not be used in pregnancy.

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Liver and bowel formula

This formula promotes detoxification by improving bowel and liver functions. The main herbs here are Milkthistle, Burdock and Tumeric. The user can improve the effects of the formula by avoiding alcohol, saturated fats and refined carbohydrates while detoxifying. Take plenty of water and herbal teas, a diet of fresh vegetables and complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, small portions of white meat and alternative protein sources such as beans, lentils, sprouted grains, nuts and seeds. The supporting herbs are Dandelion root, Rhubarb root and Cardamom which have a synergistic effect on the liver and digestive system. This formula should not be taken in pregnancy and may alter the colour of urine.

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