Thai Herbal Oil

Herb Information

Peppermint
Scientific name: Mentha piperita (SM.)
Family: N.O. Labiatae

Peppermint is one of the most useful and easy herbs to use. It is also great tasting and can be added to many herbs or blends to change or compliment their flavor. It is very effective in any form you find it except for candy containing sugar, all though when I am in a pinch for something to settle my stomach, sometimes peppermint candy will do the trick.

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Camphor
Scientific name: Cinnamonum camphora
Family: N.O. Lauraceae

The clippings, roots and wood chips of the camphor tree are processed to produce camphor crystals and camphor oil. In addition to the aromatic quality of camphor, it is used medicinally in massage compounds, lip salve and inhalants. The camphor tree is native to eastern Asia and is a close relative of the cinnamon tree. The sturdy tree has glossy dark green aromatic leaves. When mature, the tree can reach a height of 100 feet. The wood repels insects, moths, and is very durable against the erosion of salt air. In days gone by, the wood was used by sailors to moth-proof their clothes. Camphor is extracted from the wood by steam distillation, which yields transparent crystals. More recently an extraction from the leaves has also produced camphor crystals. The camphor oil is an agent which eases bruises, inflammations, and joint pains.

Zingiber
Scientific name: Zingiber Cassumunar Roxb.
Family: ZINGBERACEAE

Approximately 2 feet in height, ginger has grass like lancelet leaves which die down each year. The flower stalk grows directly from the root bearing white or yellow flowers. The tuberous root is thick and white inside with a wonderful characteristic ginger scent.

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Curcama
Scientific name: Curcuma longa (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Zingiberaceae

Curcuma is showing promise in many areas ranging from anti oxidant activity, to anti cancer properties, lowering cholesterol, protection of the cardiovascular system and HIV. Doing a search on Medline shows positive research results on various forms of cancer from oral to colon and breast cancers. Ayurvedic uses widely range from anemia, arthritis, blood purification, digestive disorders, skin disorders and inflammatory conditions.

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