HERBAL MEDICINE-MAKING CAPSTONE ASSIGNMENT.
I’m thrilled to share three herbal creations that I, Nneamaka Stella Uchendu am proud of. Although, I am very shy in showcasing my learning journey, this lady is proud to be part of the class in Commonwealth Holistic Herbalism and studying a course in Herbal Medicine-making.
1️⃣The first is a soothing eczema salve: I nicknamed “Skin Serenity”. However, I would like to list out the ingredients:
Ingredients
– 1 part Calendula infused oil
– 1 part Chamomile infused oil
– 1/2 part Beeswax
– 1/4 part Coconut oil
– 10 drops Lavender essential oil
Ratio is 1:1:1/2:1/4
Surprisingly, I got my inspiration to formulate this salve when a family member’s eczema persisted and I notice she covers her entire body as some insensitive folks where body shaming her skin infection. Her struggles motivated me to create this salve. I embarked on this formulation after discussing with her. She was assured because of how I spent time with her and scrutinised her skin.
Process:
After several trials in the house on my work table, I achieved the perfect balance of moisturizing and soothing properties based on her skin type.
Results:
Amazingly, her skin showed significant improvement both in skin hydration and reduced inflammation.
Feedback:
This family member, she shared the good news with other family members and friends. They asked which dermatologist treated her skin problem? Of course, I received acclodes because her skin reported impressive results and folks praised the salve’s gentle effectiveness.
(Photo: Skin Serenity Salve)
2️⃣
[Morning Sunrise Tea Blend]
2️⃣Secondly,
Stress dealt with me to the extent I couldn’t sleep properly, always fatigued, tired, depressed and I felt woozy. I will share the details and list of ingredients cum herbs that I used in making this tea as I had an idea to formulate an uplifting Tea Blend with the herbal knowledge gleaned from the class. Alas, I was inspired to name it “Morning Sunrise”.
Ingredients:
– 2 parts Peppermint.
– 1 part Lemon Balm.
– 1 part Rose Petals.
– 1/2 part Ginger.
Ratio is 2:1:1:1/2
Inspiration:
My aim was making herbal tea to resolve the issue of stress, insomnia so I sought to craft a refreshing, mood-boosting tea.
Process:
I had to do lots of experiment with various proportions before I got the right one that led to this harmonious blend.
Results:
I’d say for me, Morning Sunrise tea blend is very invigorating and uplifting. The perfect tea blend for starting the day.
Feedback:
I had to share this tea with family and friends. They raved about the tea’s revitalizing effects and delightful flavor. Yay! I am so excited to see I achieved this.
3️⃣
3️⃣Here I stunned with my herbal concoction customized as Cocktail Bitters. Yes, my brother nicknamed it “Spiced Citrus”. The ingredients which I listed out, can be gotten from the herbs shop in any part of the world.
Ingredients:
– 1 part Dandelion root
– 1 part Orange peel
– 1/2 part Ginger
– 1/4 part Cinnamon
– 1/4 part Lemon peel
Ratio is 1:1:1/2:1/4:1/4
Inspiration:
I like exploring with herbs some could be African or Foreign herbs. My adventurous and exploring nature resulted to a unique flavor profiles which drove me to create these bitters.
Process:
I got the herbs ready, washed, prepped and cut into pieces, some where blended before I soaked for 1 month. I tried different ones with water, vinegar and vodka. Trial and error refined the balance of bitter, sweet and spicy notes.
Results:
This herbal bitters elevates and almost equates to a cocktail because of its complex and citrusy depth.
Feedback:
My brothers and colleagues here in Nigeria coupled with fellow mixologists cum herbologists praised the bitters’ versatility and sophistication.
These are my own favourite herbal products formulated to demonstrate my growth in herbal medicine-making.
I hope my teachers enjoy the conceptualization to refinement. I am eager to continue the adventure in exploring the world of herbalism and also share my creations or herbal products with others.
DIBIA NWANGWU UCHENDU 
One response to “Herbal Medicine Making: The Three Fantastic Herbal Blends.”
Great!
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