*OUR #1 BEST SELLING HERBAL INFUSION & CUSTOMER FAVORITE!*
This blend is our proud "UTI tea". I, in my early 20's, suffered from Interstitial Cystitis before concocting this blend. I was told Interstitial Cystitis was a chronic condition without a cure, but after a careful regimen of drinking while avoiding acid-producing foods, my chronic bladder infection is now a thing of the past. I don't even get flare ups when overly stressed anymore! This recipe is so good, it was the very blend that inspired us to start Earthflower Herbs; it's brought peace and comfort to my life and I only hope we can bring it to you, too.

In my experience, sipping a half cup every half hour can quickly relieve painful urination and UT/bladder discomfort. I've found it excellent for UTI's, Interstitial cystitis, cystitis, bladder inflammation, kidney support and balanced urinary tract function. Because all our herbs are therapeutic-grade and whole, they should be reboiled up to 3 times before being composted.

This is a 40 gram bag of an organic herbal blend. One serving is one teaspoon of loose leaf blend per cup water, making sure to get all of the many herbs in each scoop. We recommend steeping 3 tablespoons in a 2 liter jar or teapot full (64 oz daily) and drinking it throughout the day. Then reboiling the tea once per day for 3 days and taking a break every 4th day. This completely relieves UTI’s within 5-10 days in my experience. Following this protocol was exactly how I used the tea to relieve my interstitial cystitis over a period of 3 months (in combination with a low acid diet) and I always recommend reboiling the tea three times, because you increase the dilution each day to the point where its more of a mild tonic or micro-dose on the third day. It is also important to take a couple rest days each week. I recommend a rest day every 4 days, especially if you want to take it for longer than 1 week.

Day 1: I fill a cotton tea bag with fresh tea and steep it in 2 liters of water and I drink it slowly throughout the day.
Day 2: I re-steep the teabag in 2 liters of pure hot water and drink a diluted tea slowly through the day.
Day 3: I re-steep the teabag in 2 liters of pure hot water and drink a diluted tea slowly through the day.
Day 4: I take a rest day and don’t drink any UTI tea. Instead, I drink lots of water.
The tea should only be full strength only once every 4 days, not daily. In my experience, my UTI symptoms resolved within 7 to 10 days. Some studies suggest the potential for liver toxicity when ingesting an isolated compound of Uva Ursi (hydroquinone), and because of this some practitioners say not to use it for more than 7 days at a time. However this may be true for concentrated doses of the isolated compound and not the whole herb (for more information scroll down to Uva Ursi in the ingredient list). In my experience with treating Interstitial cystitis, I used this tea this way for 3 months with no side effects.

Always consult your health care practitioner before starting any herbal regimen. I'm only a Medical Herbalist and not a doctor. I'm just sharing my experience with how I used this blend of herbs to help myself out of a very uncomfortable situation in my life. This experience is not medical advice and always ask your holistic health care practitioner before starting any herbal regimen.

I do offer special ordering of low-uva ursi blends with half the uva-ursi content made to order and can make uva ursi- free tea, though I cannot say how effective it can be without this ingredient.


INGREDIENTS:
Cornsilk, Uva Ursi, Marshmallow, Stinging Nettle, Dandelion greens.

Corn silk is used for bladder infections, inflammation of the urinary system, inflammation of the prostate, kidney stones, and bedwetting.

Uva Ursi contains hydroquinone and hydroquinone derivatives, making it potentially useful for urinary conditions and is used to treat infections such as cystitis, urethritis and nephritis. The hydroquinone derivative, arbutin, is the chief active compound in Uva Ursi.
DISCLAIMER: Studies suggest Hydroquinone, an isolated constituent in Uva Ursi leaf can cause liver damage. This is not to say the whole herb behaves this way. I have chosen to keep Uva Ursi in this recipe because herbs in their whole form behave differently in the body than an isolated constituent, which can be extremely concentrated. Once you remove a component of an herb, you get a drug, which are known to cause side effects. Almost all drugs are derived from plants, yet many cause unwanted side effects not observed when using the whole herb. Herbs have thousands of constituents and many are designed to work in synergy with one another. Certain constituents antidote the negative effect of others, and this goes even further when combining herbs. Despite this, I still recommend taking rest days every few days. This is my opinion as an herbalist and not to be taken as medical advice. I also offer custom ordering for half-strength uva ursi content or uva ursi-free blends for anyone who is concerned.

Marshmallow, especially the leaves and roots, contain polysaccharides that have antitussive, mucilaginous, and antibacterial properties. It reduces inflammation, soothes mucous membranes, chron's, and ulcerative colitis. When used with Uva Ursi, it acts as a substitute for the medicinal properties of the endangered pipissewa herb.

Stinging Nettle stimulates lymph system to boost immunity, supports adrenals, helps break down kidney stones, destroys intestinal worms, and supports kidney functions.

Dandelion greens contain vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron (crucial for generating red blood cells), potassium (to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure), and manganese. Other nutrients present in dandelion greens include folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. Dandelion greens help clear painful urinary dysfunction.

*Statements not evaluated by the FDA
*This product is not intended to cure, treat, or diagnose any illness. Ask your physician before starting any herbal regime.
*Information above for educational purposes only.

What you see here is an herbal anti-histamine power tea! Crafted with Marshmallow leaf, licorice root, elderberries and stinging nettle, this organic and fair trade loose leaf tea is comprised of the perfect anti-allergy arsenal. It tastes like a tangy white tea with a very subtle elderberry kiss and a tickle of nettle. 

Marshmallow leaf has mild antibacterial, anti-allergy and immune boosting properties. 

Licorice root has an aspirin-like action and is helpful in relieving fevers and soothing pain such as headaches. Its anti-allergenic effect is very useful for hay fever, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and bronchial asthma. Licorice also appears to enhance immunity by boosting levels of interferon, a key immune system chemical that fights off attacking viruses.
***If you have high blood pressure or cataracts, use licorice root with caution.

Elderberries, in clinical trials, have been shown to reduce mucus secretions in sinus cavities, and some studies also suggest that elderberries reduce swelling of mucous membranes, which will improve sinus drainage and relieve congestion.

According to a study in Phytotherapy Research [Jul 23(7):920-6. 2009], Nettle leaves block histamine receptors, and halt the production of a compound that causes airways to “close up.” 

Lobelia is a strong relaxant and deobstruent (meaning it opens obstructions). It relaxes the stomach (a common problem in asthmatic children) and dilates the bronchial passages. The primary active constituent in lobelia, responsible for its beneficial characteristics, is an alkaloid known as lobeline. Lobeline is an expectorant, diaphoretic, and bronchodilator that is able to support the respiratory system in a multidimensional way. As an expectorant, lobeline helps break down congestion and thin mucus. That, combined with its bronchodilating effects, helps to open the airway and encourage deeper, stronger breathing. 

One serving is one tablespoon. We recommend steeping a large teapot or jar with multiple doses and sipping it until symptoms subside. It's a tasty everyday beverage for people suffering from seasonal allergies. All of our ingredients are time-tested medicinal herbs traditionally used by indigenous peoples. Each teabag can be reboiled twice. 
Only 100% Organic, non-irradiated, GMO-free, fair trade herbs make it into our apothecary. 

Candida is a very common ailment for many people with the widespread use and abuse of anti-biotics in the western world wiping our colons clean of good bacteria. This, along with with a sedentary lifestyle, a diet rich in refined grains, processed foods & meat, and low in fiber, leafy greens and vegetables creates a sluggish colon that's lined with a layer of compact dark fecal matter which not only impedes our ability to absorb key nutrients in our food, but also provides an idea breeding ground for Candida Albicans- a parasitic fungus that moves around the body and makes us feel fatigued, get allergies, get never-ending sniffles, neurological abnormalities, yeast infections, athlete's foot and GI ailments. Modern medicine simply doesn't pay enough attention to candida, as it's incredibly and increasingly common in the post-penicillin era. I highly recommend glancing over the symptomology to consider whether it may be affecting you.

In a healthy gut, candida exists in controlled numbers alongside the friendly flora that help us digest, absorb nutrients and even produce nutrients for our bodies to assimilate and use to be healthy. However, people who've even taken anti-biotics once have already messed up the delicate eco-system that's the most intrinsic part of our colon health and overall health. If there's anything I learned while studying herbalism, it's that you simply cannot be healthy with an unhealthy colon; all health starts with your colon. 

This blend was first made for a mother who was surprised to find fungal overgrowth in her colon. She drank this blend often and followed a colon cleanse and a anti-candida diet. Her results came back negative just two months later, and she still drinks the tea to this day for it's sweet-spicy taste and the way it clears her head and gives her energy. Meet the Candida Crushers:

Uva Ursi: contains diuretic chemicals, including ursolic acid, powerful astringents, and a chemical, allantoin, that helps promote the growth of healthy new cells and the healing of wounds. It also contains tannic acid, a phenolic acid, which is also found in nettles, tea, and berries. Studies have shown that tannic acid has a number of health benefits including anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activity. Uva Ursi has been reported to be effective against diseases caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Proteus vulgaris, Mycoplasma hominis, Staphylococcus strains, and Candida albicans.

Ginger Root: Gentle antifungal, anti-inflammatory agent, analgesic (pain reliever), nausea reliever, metabolism booster, aphrodisiac and is a protector of gastrointestinal lining. Wonderful for restoring the intestinal ecosystem after a candida infestation. Effective anti-parasitic.

Licorice Root: An excellent prebiotic with a tangy sweet taste and numerous fungicidal properties.

Black Walnut: Studies on compounds found in black walnut extract have shown it to be as effective against candida as commercial antifungal treatments like selenium sulfide and zinc undecylenate. It is believed that the naphthoquinone juglone, high levels of astringent tannins and other compounds in black walnut treatments change the intestinal environment to make it unfavorable for the candida albicans fungus and other harmful parasites.

Cayenne Pepper: Powerful circulatory stimulant and anti-fungal. Cayenne has been used since ancient times to treat parasites. It's great for the immune system, which helps the body respond to Candida. The immune boosting effects are due to antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which fight the effects of oxidative stress. It also greatly improves digestion which cleanses out candida.

**One serving is one gram of tea blend per cup of water. Let it simmer in a covered stainless steel or glass pot on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes, strain, letting your infusion time to cool before sipping. You can re-simmer the herbs once more before they're spent; the tea will be pleasant and mild. I recommend making a 2 liter glass jar-full to drink though the whole day; simply simmer the appropriate amount of servings and dilute with hot water. Keeps well in the fridge.

This tea works best when used in combination with a candida-curbing diet that's very low in sugar, dairy and starches to starve off the parasitic fungus and high in kefir and probiotics to restore the natural intestinal flora. The herbs in Candida Crusher help to effectively purge the fungus out of your body and promote new tissue regeneration. It can also be used topically as an anti-fungal foot soak or poured into the bath to relieve yeast infections and candidaisis on the skin. 

We love home-brewing fresh Kombuchai right at home! It's a safe, easy, and almost effortless way to make a fermented health-boosting probiotic elixir for pennies on the dollar! It's fun for the family and gets kids hooked on an effervescent fizzy "soda pop" that's great for not only their tastebuds, but their growing bodies!

This organic herbal blend will give you the perfect batch of 'booch! It's seriously better than what you find at the store! The base is a delectable blend of organic Rooibos and Green tea (never sourced from China) for optimal SCOBY health with added Hibiscus flower petals, elderflowers and just a touch of Valerian for that soothing "Ahhhhh...." you feel after taking a sip of home-brewed kombuchai. Hibiscus adds acidity which protects your brew from foreign microbes, the elderflowers give it irresistible floral notes that go so well with a tickle of Valerian. You will seriously love this rich and tangy blend! You can even use it half&half with your favourite green or black tea!

We love Kombuchai, our lives revolve around when that next batch will be ready. After only a few days of steeping your SCOBY in our Kombuchai blend, you'll notice your SCOBY floating, fizzing, and little bubbles happily settling on the surface; all signs of flourishing health. With enough sugar, this blend will make your SCOBYs fat fast! The choice of herbs we used in this blend are 100% SCOBY safe and will NOT harm your SCOBY. There aren't many herbs that are considered SCOBY safe. This blend can be additionally flavored in any which way during the second ferment.

Oh how we love our Valerian! Anyone who's tried to drink Valerian root knows it's pungent flavor can sometimes be hard to swallow. After some experimentation with thoughtfully sourced fair-trade teas and organic herbs, we finally blended Valerian root into a perfectly compatible, ultra relaxing lavender and Earl grey. The caffeine in our Sri Lanka earl grey is counterbalanced with the relaxing properties of organic lavender, letting you enjoy the health benefits of Valerian root any time of day. No longer will this healing root's acquired taste keep you from enjoying the health properties of organic Valerian root. The best part is that our Earl grey is not from China and has no artificial flavor additives! 

Valerian was not only commonly used as medicine by our ancestors, but continues to be used as medicine today. Valerian is used as a mild tranquilizer for people experiencing emotional stress. Valerian has occasionally been tried as part of a program to take a patient off antidepressants or benzodiazepines, and is sometimes used as a muscle relaxant to treat pain. Valerian does not impair driving ability and produces no morning hangover effect. It is a gentle relaxant and an effective sleep aid.

One serving equals one gram. Can be reboiled and enjoyed twice.
*NOTE* Let the boiling water sit for a minute before steeping as to not spoil Valerian's delicate nutrients and phytochemicals. 

Our Organic Moon-time tea lets you celebrate your womanly connection to the moon with comfort and vitality. The synergy between this select blend of organic and fair trade herbs is balanced in just the right proportions to relieve painful menstrual cramps and has a floral, yet earthy flavor.

Chamomile is anti-inflammatory and contains Glycine, a chemical that relieves muscle spasms and acts as a nerve relaxer. This is perfect for relaxing the tense muscles around the uterus to relieve painful cramping. 

Cramp bark is a legendary uterine anti-spasmodic. It prevents painful period spasms both preemptively and actively by reducing uterine contractions. 

Pennyroyal leaf helps promote the shedding of the uterine lining. Ginger relieves nausea and is a well-known anti-inflammatory for moon-time aches & pains. 

For centuries, Valerian has traditionally been used as both a muscle and mind relaxant and pain reliever. 
We've found that this blend of Moon-time herbs works wonders!

This is one delicious herbal black tea blend! The floral note of organic lavender just kisses the rich Bergamot flavor. So, we blend fair trade Earl Grey with pungent organic lavender. It's completely herbal with no artificial flavors or additives! This pungent Earl Grey turns deep red when steeped and is quite potent! It's excellent for making a teapot to share with friends. Earl grey contains caffeine, so this could be your new tasty morning caffeine fix. The average supermarket 'Lady Grey" has never tasted this good. Best part? We never source tea from China.

One serving is about one tablespoon or what you can steep it in a stainless steel tea ball. Can be reboiled and enjoyed twice. 
Only 100% Organic, non-irradiated, GMO-free, fair trade herbs make it into our home apothecary.