Urtica is a genus of flowering plants in the family Urticaceae. Many species have stinging hairs and may be called nettles or stinging nettles, although the latter name applies particularly to Urtica dioica.

Urtica species are food for the caterpillars of numerous Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), such as the tortrix moth Syricoris lacunana and several Nymphalidae, such as Vanessa atalanta, one of the red admiral butterflies.

Urtica species grow as annuals or perennial herbaceous plants, rarely ...

urtica

General-information-on-birch-trees-and-leaves

General information on birch trees and leaves

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"Birch leaf" is the common name for the leaves of the betula pendula roth tree or Betula pubescens Ehrh. &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-61535-1_16?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=1dc7934c-8d6d-41fc-9b96-1b33046d2d07" target="_blank" data-ref="Birch ( Betula spp.)" rel="noopener">[Ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; The genus Betula, colloquially known as birches, is composed of about 120 different species of small to medium-sized deciduous trees and shrubs with thin leaves.

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Throughout history, birch bark has been used in the practices of traditional medicine by the indigenous peoples of North America to treat superficial wounds by applying the bark directly to the skin. The birch leaf, in turn, was used as a mild diuretic for the dew of the urinary tract, especially in inflammations and cases of blockage of the kidneys. It is also used as an aid in the treatment of bacterial infections and spasmodic urinary tract disorders.

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Ayurvedic-health-benefits-of-birch-leaves

Ayurvedic health benefits of birch leaves

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In The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine, phytotherapist David Hoffman writes: "Birch leaves are an effective remedy for cystitis and other urinary system infections and help remove excess water from the body. &nbsp;<a href="https://books.google.de/books?id=e10oDwAAQBAJ&amp;newbks=0&amp;hl=en&amp;redir_esc=y" target="_blank" data-ref="Medical Herbalism" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;Perhaps because of this purifying and diuretic activity, the plant has been used to treat gout, rheumatism and mild arthritic pain. With urinary tract infections, tea can be prepared, with several leaves boiled in a glass of water for 5-10 minutes. Tea is consumed unsweetened.

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Some of the other areas of application for which there is evidence that birches and their components have a beneficial effect are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blood purifier: Use a tablespoon of inner birch bark with one glass of boiling water. Take one glass a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Analgesic: Birch essential oil can be applied externally to relieve headaches, menstrual cramps, abdominal cramps, gout, rheumatism and other pains.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wounds: Boil the bark in a little water and use the liquid for wound cleaning.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baldness: The decoction of leaves can be used as a means of rinsing hair.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Arthritis: Prepare for the decoction 1 teaspoon birch bark and 1 teaspoon dandelion root (Radix Taraxaci). Add 1 slice of grated ginger root (Zingiber officinale). Keep it low. Turn off the heat when it boils. Drink half a cup when it cools down. Do not use this medicine if you are sensitive to analgesics.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Septicaemia: Take an equal amount of nettle root (Urtica dioica L.), horseradish leaves (Equisetum arvense L.), birch leaves, dandelion leaves. Prepare a potion. Take one glass once a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kidney stones: Boil one tablespoon of birch leaves in half a glass of water for 10 minutes. Leave to stand for 2 hours. Add half a tablespoon of baking soda. Take one glass a day.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gallstones: Take dandelion root, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), birch leaves and nettle leaves in equal quantities. Make tea by boiling all these herbs together and drinking regularly to prevent kidney and bile stones.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Possible-side-effects-when-using-birch-leaves

Possible side effects when using birch leaves

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People who are allergic to wild carrots, wormwood, celery and other spices may react to birch pollen. This pollen can also cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to other plants such as apples, soybeans, hazelnuts and peanuts.

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Side effects reported with birch leaf medicines include:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Diarrhea.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A feeling of discomfort similar to getting sick.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Allergic reactions such as itching, rash and stuffy and runny nose. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7126499/" target="_blank" data-ref="Medicinal plants of the genus Betula&mdash;Traditional uses and a phytochemical&ndash;pharmacological review" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; </li></ul>Birch leaves should not be used in patients with a decreased renal or cardiac function. Pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid the use of birch leaves. It should also be taken into account that birch leaves can lead to an increase in the amount of salt in the body, which in turn worsens problems with high blood pressure. Therefore, if you have any of these conditions, ask your doctor for advice before taking tea, using in culinary or other things invlonving birch leaves.

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Birch leaves are traditionally used as a herbal treatment and as an antiseptic for the urinary tract, to relieve arthritic pains and due to their antimicrobial action. Birch leaves can be boiled in tea and taken internally for various health problems, but there are some contraindications, for example, in people with hypertension, pregnant and nursing mothers.

Birch leaves - health benefits, usage and side effects

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Birch leaves - healing properties, use and side effects

Бетина Цветкова

Natural-remedies-for-relieving-a-stuffy-nose

Natural remedies for relieving a stuffy nose 

Add-moisture-to-the-air

Add moisture to the air

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Using a humidifier or diffuser with essential oils in your home or office is a simple and effective way to reduce nasal congestion. Inhalation of moist air helps to soothe irritated nasal tissues, reduces inflammation of the sinuses and dilutes accumulated mucus. Conversely - dry air hinders the self-cleaning of the nostrils and contributes to the retention of potential irritants and allergens.

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Some electrical devices such as humidifiers for warm and cool fog, are equally effective for increasing the level of humidity and relieving nasal congestion. We recommend using only appliances from certified manufacturers, with a warranty and clear instructions for use and origin. Whatever type of appliance you choose, be sure to change the water daily and clean the appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

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Try-nasal-irrigation

Try nasal irrigation

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Rinsing nasal passages using a device such as Neti pot can help release accumulated mucus and eliminate irritants, allergens and microbes. Although it may seem like an unpleasant procedure, it can bring great relief when properly done. Neti pot is safe to use with sterile or distilled water. Never use tap water unless you have boiled and cooled it.

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If you do not want to undergo such a procedure, nasal spray with saline and injection into the nose can also help soothe dry nasal passages. There are also herbal nasal unclogging sprays, which usually include eucalyptus, propolis, lavender (Lavandula spica L.), geranium (Geranium L.), mint ((Mentha)) and others.

Take-a-hot-shower

Take a hot shower

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Have you ever noticed that when you have caught a cold, a hot shower can help relieve a stuffy nose? The reason is that inhaling steam reduces pain in the sinuses and pressure, helping the outflow of mucus. Inhaling steam over a pot of boiling water is also another option, but be careful not to get too close to the water.

Apply-a-warm-compress

Apply a warm compress

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If you have headaches or pain in the sinuses as a result of nasal congestion, try to relieve the condition with a warm compress directly on the nose and forehead. This can help relieve nasal inflammation and pressure and relieve discomfort.

Use-of-decongestants

Use of decongestants 

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Decongestants cause narrowing of small blood vessels in the nose. This reduces swelling in the mucus membrane of the nose and reduces the feeling of blockage. Natural remedies that can support these processes are vitamin C, ginger, eucalyptus and others.

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Increase-fluid-intake

Increase fluid intake

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This rule applies to almost every condition which could make us sick. Although it will not provide immediate relief, drinking plenty of soft fluids and maintaining good hydration will help dilute mucus in the nasal passages, making it easier to leak through the sinuses. This also means more recent blockage relief. It does not matter whether they are hot or cold drinks, it is important that the amount is more than the minimum according to age, gender and weight.

Relieve-nasal-congestion-with-herbs-and-other-plants

Relieve nasal congestion with herbs and other plants

Nettle-(Urtica-dioica)

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

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This plant is well known to those who are unhappy enough to have touched its leaves. As a famous antioxidant, with antimicrobial and analgesic action, nettle can reduce inflammation associated with allergies without causing any side effects that come with the use of pharmaceuticals. [ <a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14903" target="_blank" data-ref="Urtica dioica" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Handrails-(Perilla-frutescens)

Handrails (Perilla frutescens)

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This not so famous herb is a member of the mint family and can help you in the battle against the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Many studies have shown that handrails are useful for the treatment of nasal congestion, sinusitis, allergic asthma and eye irritation. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14717" target="_blank" data-ref="Perilla frutescens" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Sea-buckthorn-(Hippophae-rhamnoides)

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)

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This plant grows like a shrub or a small tree, it is easily recognizable on its prickly gray twigs and bright orange ovoid fruits. Sea buckthorn contains more than 190 nutrients and phytonutrients! It is ideal for people who suffer from allergic rhinitis, as well as asthma, chronic cough and other respiratory disorders. It is known to contain large amounts of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that plays a critical role in maintaining respiratory health. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14770" target="_blank" data-ref="Hippophae rhamnoides" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

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Ginger is a safe and highly effective herb that you can try as a tea to relieve nasal congestion and headaches. As you sip your tea, inhale the steam coming out of the glass. You can also combine it with other herbs, such as turmeric (Curcuma alismatifolia), which is another powerful natural healer.

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Herbs are also a remedies (albeit of natural origin) and you should treat them as such. Watch out for the correct dosage as well as contraindications, and consult your GP or allergist before taking them for nasal congestion or any other health problem.

Proven natural remedies for relieving a stuffy nose (nasal congestion)

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Our country is known for hundreds of famous individuals who have worked for the enlightenment of the people, for the preservation of our spirit and our language and alphabet. But besides educators and scholars, we also have remarkable medical professionals and doctors. Some of them honor folk medicine and herbal treatment as means of healing and treatment. One of those people we have introduced you with recently - Petar Dimkov the Healer. Besides being known for his wise words about kindness and happiness, Petar Dimkov is faithful to the means of folk medicine, with which he heals thousands of people. In this article we will explain why we call him the Healer and who are his twelve golden herbs for treating&nbsp;numerous ailments and conditions.

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Who-is-Petar-Dimkov

Who is Petar Dimkov

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Born in 1886, Petar Dimkov is the child of a priest and healer. It is his mother who is the main inspiration for the future healer. In his book "Bulgarian Folk Medicine" Petar Dimkov shares that his mother Ekaterina Dimkova was the person who tirelessly sought, recorded and stored folk recipes for natural treatment. He received her recipe collection at the age of 14, and then his life became a string of surprising and challenging events.

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Military school in Russia, participation in three wars, serious merit for the construction of the Asparuhov shaft, construction of the Arch and Park Musem "Vladislav Varnenchik" in Varna, these are part of his valuable contributions. But all the time there is one thing that guides his path, and this is the attraction to the healing tools of folk medicine.

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Continuing the path of his family, Petar Dimkov devoted a huge part of his life to studying herbs, discovering and collecting recipes, improving and testing them. He was one of the first brave adherents of the environmentally friendly way of life, always calling for moderation in everything, practicing self-control and self-suggestion, preserving the health and purity of the soul through inquisitiveness and kindness. Because according to the Healer, "Kindness is a precious health" and "The joyful one does not suffer."

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According to unofficial data, after censoring his book "Handbook on Natural Healing and Living" and despite the ban on practicing, Petar Dimkov saved the lives of more than one&nbsp;hundred thousand people. And if this is not an example of dedication, then what else?

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Petar Dimkov ranks 67-th in the guide "The 100 Most Influential Bulgarians in Our History" published by Prof. Dr. Andrey Pantev and Borislav Gavrilov [ref. 1]. Whether <a href="/p/rietsieptitie_na_pietr_dimkov_liechitielia_nauchien_prochit_chast_1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>this place is too low for him or rather high you will be able to judge for yourself if you become acquainted with his work and life path. We actually share his story in <a href="../p/rietsieptitie_na_pietr_dimkov_liechitielia_nauchien_prochit_chast_1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The recipes of Petar Dimkov the Healer - scientific reading (part 1),</a> where we also speak about the tribulations in the healer's life and the fact that he never loses hope, he is always ready to help his fellow siblings even in wartime, and most importantly, that he leaves us abundant national wealth in the form of numerous recipes for folk medicine and tried-and-tested advice on good health.

The-Healer's-Twelve-Golden-Herbs---part-2

The Healer's Twelve Golden Herbs - part 2

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"Bulgarian Folk Medicine. Volume 1-3. Natural treatment and natural life in three volumes", "500 herbs for 50 diseases. Book 1: Petar Dimkov's Recipes for Cancer", "Eye Diagnosis" are among the most famous books of the Healer. And this nickname is received because from the beginning he helps people and treats them selflessly, without any payment.

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Inside the works of Petar Dimkov can be found thousands of pages with recipes for abscesses, atherosclerosis, Bazedova disease, blood and tooth diseases, insomnia, trivial cough and cold, constipation, erythema lupus, epilepsy, even leukemia and hundreds more health disorders.

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At the heart of the herbal treatment administered by Petar Dimkov the Healer are carefully collected, stored and applied herbs. Only natural means and methods of preparation such as baths, massage techniques, compression therapy and others are used, combined with moderate nutrition, physical activity and work on a subconscious level.

The-Healer's-Twelve-Golden-Herbs---part-2_1_4

As golden herbs, twelve different medicinal plants stand out in the recipes, which possess numerous beneficial properties. In the first part we talked about Agrimonia eupatoria, Pine Tips (Pinus sylvestris L.), Easter ("chief healer") (Veronica, plantaginaceae family), Nettle leaf (Urtica Dioica), St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and Yellow yarrow (Achillea clypeolata). And today we continue with the presentation and analysis of the scientifically proven benefits of the remaining six herbs, which are:

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<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Plantago major L. is used in folk medicine worldwide, not only in our country. [ref. 2] The leaves of the plant contain valuable polyphenol compounds, [ref. 3] which contribute to improving digestion, brain function and blood sugar levels. This plant contains a number of effective chemical ingredients, including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic acid derivatives, iridoid glycosides, fatty acids, polysaccharides and vitamins. [ref. 4] Besides all this, it turns out that Plantago major protects the liver from damage - it has a well-known and proven hepatoprotective, effect as well as anti-inflammatory action in the body [ref. 5].&nbsp;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Raspberry leaves (Rubus idaeus L.) - raspberries are a source of ellagic acid, its 4-Arabinozide, 4' (4' '-acetyl) arabinoside and 4' (4' '-acetyl)xyloside, as well as quercetin and kempferol 3-glucosides. All listed ingredients are antioxidant compounds that can destroy free radicals. Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in obese diabetic mice, which is probably due to the polyphenols and fiber contained in the raspberries. [ref. 6] The bioactive potential of red raspberry has also been studied for its cytotoxic and cytoprotective activity on larynx carcinoma and colon adenocarcinoma in humans. The results are part of the scientific publication <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22082102/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The bioactive potential of red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) in exhibiting cytotoxic and cytoprotective activity on human laryngeal carcinoma and colon adenocarcinoma</a>. [ref. 7] Raspberry is part of the Healer's recipes for constipation, angina and pharyngitis, dysentery and more. <img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/63e4917b-b50d-427e-bb86-a66fad9b04da_middle.jpg" border="0" alt=""></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Forest strawberry leaves (Fragaria vesca L.) - Fragaria vesca (wild strawberry) belongs to the Rose flower family. Plants of this family contain flavonoids, tannins, volatile oils, methyl salisilate and borneol. Fruits contain salicylic acid and are useful in the treatment of liver and kidney diseases, as well as in the treatment of rheumatism and gout [ref. 8, 9] Forest strawberries also have antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them great allies of our immunity. The Healer recommends strawberries as part of a special decoction for quitting smoking, for itching of the external genital organs [by oral intake of a mixture of agrimony, pine tips, deciduous plantain (leaves), forest strawberry leaves, lemon balm, marigold (leaves and color) and Alchemilla vulgaris] and many more. [ref.9]<img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/ef30d425-5731-42ee-880b-c444912fab3b_middle.jpg" border="0" alt=""></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Galium Odoratum- this beautiful flowering perennial plant of the Rubiaceae family besides beauty, also holds useful substances. The plant contains coumarin (0,4-1%), asperulosid (0,05-0,3%), monotropein (0,04%), tanins, iridoids, anthraquinones, flavonoids and traces of nicotinic acid. These active compounds help relieve burns and heal wounds faster and have an antioxidant effect. [ref. 10] Phenolic acids, flavonols (derivatives of querercetin and kaempferol) and iridoids are the main compounds of G. odoratum extract, which affect the expression of virulence factors and the formation of biofilm by the uropathogenic Escherichia coli. In other words, the extract of Galium Odoratum can be used in the prevention of urinary tract infections - it is also found in such recipes of the Healer, as well as in recipes for breast cancer, chronic constipation and belching, muscle spasms and other problems. [ref. 9]<img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/a288ec92-908e-4043-9ac9-5a90e398495b_middle.jpg" border="0" alt=""></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Walnut leaf (Juglans Regia) - walnut is a medicinal plant with many beneficial properties and great therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. In addition to having high antioxidant levels, walnuts are a source of many chemical compounds such as ascorbic acid, flavonoids, querercetin and caffeic acid. Walnuts are also rich in nutrients - they are high in fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. They are also a good source of flavonoids, sterols, phenolic acids and related polyphenols. [ref. 11] Juglans regia leaves are mostly used in traditional medicines worldwide such as antimicrobial, antihelmintic, keratolytic, antidiarrheal, hypoglycemic, depurative, tonic agents. [ref. 12] As far as the Healer's recipes, walnuts are used for complete balanced nutrition, used in the raw eating diet he encourages, and the leaves are recommended to the liver, cardiac and kidney patients as part of baths or decoctions. The use of walnut leaves is also found as part of tinctures for healing cracked and broken bone, treatment of moles, wrinkles on the face, etc. [ref. 9]</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Grains of red juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus) - grains of Juniperus oxycedrus contain flavonoids, flavones, terpenoids, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, volatile oils and are being used for digestive problems, including upset stomach, intestinal gases (flatulence), heartburn, bloating and loss of appetite, as well as gastrointestinal infections [ref. 13]. They are also used in urinary tract infections and kidney and bladder stones due to their proven antimicrobial, hypotensive, cytotoxic, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and relaxing smooth muscle effects [ref. 13, 14, 15] Petar Dimkov includes red juniper in herbal recipes for jaundice, cirrhosis of the liver, paralysis of limbs, destruction of hip joints, blisters, kidney or adrenal glands tumors, muscle spasms and other conditions.<img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/f5219519-59ea-47e4-834d-c14a12782331_middle.jpg" border="0" alt=""></li>
</ol>

The-Healer's-Twelve-Golden-Herbs---part-2_1_6

The Healer gives us so much knowledge and value, which can help us make our lives more harmonious, and our health more resilient and sustainable. And not only that - numerous scientific publications support the usefulness of the herbs with which the Healer has treated people, and we can also use in the same way. We believe in the power of folk medicine, which people have practiced for centuries and believed to be helpful for a huge number of health problems. We also believe that Petar Dimkov's knowledge should reach more people through his work and recipes, especially at a time of pandemic and searching for opportunities to improve everyone's health.

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"Our ancestors have not left us many monuments for the treatment of their disabilities, therefore the present generation has a sacred obligation to collect the remnants of our folk medicine, for if it does not happen now, everything will spill and disappear without a trace."

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Prof. Stefan Vatev, M.D.

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(1866-1946)

"Pure thoughts, pure mind, good intentions" - this counsels us wisely the Healer, and in these challenging times as if we need to think more about who we do good to or to whom we have done something bad, how we treat ourselves and our health, do we believe in the power of nature and its healing gifts.

The recipes of Petar Dimkov the Healer - scientific reading (part 2)

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 The recipes of Petar Dimkov the Healer - scientific reading (part 2)

"The greatest power is thought. Whatever we think, we build from invisible matter something that draws strength to ourselves to help or harm us, according to the nature of our thoughts. Therefore, the first step is to manage our thoughts through our reasoning. And the second step requires us to develop a habit of positive thinking. There is no doctor who can eliminate the diseases of the body and soul, for they are eliminated by joyful thought."

These are very wise and insightful words uttered by the infamous Peter Dimkov the Healer [ref.1]. It would be very nice if a man like him could be among us in the midst of a severe pandemic of COVID-19, against which all branches of medicine join forces altogether.

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Petar Dimkov owns the nickname "The Healer". He has left us an incredible wealth in the form of thousands of recipes for a variety of health problems and valuable life lessons for faith, empathy and acceptance of higher thought. He has drawn inspiration from his mother Ekaterina Dimkova, who has long sought and recorded folk recipes for treatment and passed on the covenant to her son.

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What is the story of Petar Dimkov, what his daughter reveals about him and the books he left us, we will share with you in today's article.

Born in 1886, in the family of a priest and herbalist, Dimkov from a young age was brought up in patriotism and respect for the great mother Nature. At just 20 years old, he was appointed lieutenant in the Dragoman Regiment in the Caribrod.

In 1899 he went to St. Petersburg (Russia), together with his older brother Dimitar, to study with a scholarship in the military academy. At the same time he attended lectures at the medical university, completed a course in homeopathy and also showed interest in lectures in traditional Tibetan medicine. During his studies, Dimkov read the books of Dr. Ignatz von Peczely, the father of iridology, which will later become the preferred diagnostic method for Dimkov.

Petar Dimkov was also a participant in three wars - the Balkan, Second Balkan and First World Wars, and was repeatedly wounded. During his service in the army, he was awarded all the medals of valor that were once awarded in Bulgaria. As an acting officer in Karlovo in 1933, he rescued Levski's home and prevented it from destruction.

How-does-he-get-the-nickname-"The-Healer"

How does he get the nickname "The Healer"

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Even in his childhood he was attracted to the healing power of herbs, following the family traditions and guidelines of his mother Ekaterina. In his book "Bulgarian Folk Medicine. Volume 1" Dimkov shares:

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In 1900, when I was 14-years old, she handed me her notebooks with advice to continue searching for and recording the methods and means by which our people had been treated over the centuries. That's what I've been doing for 75 years.'

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In 1936, due to his Republican beliefs and though character, Dimkov retired early from the army. Years of misery followed for his family. His friend, an immigrant to the United States, offered him a home in America. However, the proud Bulgarian firmly refused because of his belief that "our people are great and the land is amazing".

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In these years of poverty and hopelessness, Dimkov outlined a new path for himself - the herbal treatment. [ref.2]

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Dimkov traveled tirelessly in the country and abroad. He met Peter Deunov and became his ardent follower and disciple. Dimkov then started practicing traditional medicine, iridology and herbal treatment (phytotherapy). Besides all this, the Healer is a great supporter of the ideas of vegetarianism and life according to the laws of nature and space.

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About this side of him we are being told later by his daughter in an interview with Portal 12 - Dimkov and his entire family lived according to the canons of Christianity even in the troubled communist years and did not spare his powers to see everyone. Although the visits severely exhausted him, both mentally and physically, this did not in any way stop him from fulfilling the mission to which he devoted himself. Namely - to treat people according to folk medicine. The main principles Dimkov derives from it and observes in his treatment sessions with the people he treats tirelessly are:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Healing occurs with natural native means.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The final target of the treatment is general strengthening of the body by changing the way of eating and living.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Treatment should always be individual - according to the disease, the person and his condition.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">To impact not only the affected organ or system, but also the whole organism (which is the basis of holistic medicine).</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">With the help of suggestion and self-suggestion to create confidence in the patient for successful recovery. This is also confirmed by his daughter - the artist Lily Dimkova, adding that both healthy and sick people should practice self-suggestion, because thought has the power to change the subconsciousness.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">He denies using technical equipment and machines, instead studying the usefulness of means such as compresses, baths, massages, fasting, raw foodism and more.</li>
</ul>

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The-recipes-of-Petar-Dimkov

The recipes of Petar Dimkov

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No disease that cannot be cured is the Healer's only rule. And perhaps his unshakable faith is rooted in the healing power of his rule. And morale, according to Dimkov, is the only guarantee of good health. He adds: "Illness is the result of lying. Breaking the law of truth leads to illness. The truth brings health. It revives, renews, rejuvenates."

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At the basics of folk medicine, which Peter Dimkov practiced, are the recipes for various health problems. In his books you will find recipes for the most trivial things like the cold and the flu, as well as for various problems such as muscle spasms, curvature of the spine, acute rheumatism, stuttering and pelting, headache, meningitis, reproductive problems, paralysis of limbs and many more.

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Those recipes have helped thousands of people to heal, and at a later stage numerous scientific works establish the effectiveness of the natural means used by the Healer. This is yet another proof that phytotherapy in particular and folk medicine in general can help with a wide range of health problems and more importantly: science supports their usefulness.

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Diving into the world of Dimkov's recipes, we find an inexhaustible source of knowledge, which is applied not only to the treatment of the sick organ, but also to achieve a general strengthening effect on the whole organism.

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Some of his most famous recipe books are:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Hygiene and healing of the soul"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Bulgarian Folk Medicine: Natural Treatment and Natural Life - Volume 1-3"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Let's live one hundred years - Tips and recipes of the herb healer Petar Dimkov"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Tips and recipes of Petar Dimkov for healing with fasting and treatment with water"</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">"Live for 100 years" and more.</li>
</ul>

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In 1944, the published "Handbook of Natural Healing and Living" by Petar Dimkov was included in the list of books banned in Bulgaria, and almost all of its specimens were destroyed. At the same time, the authorities officially forbid him from treatment. Dimkov, however, continues to do so, of course - secretly and in the following decades he saved hundreds of lives. After 1989 and the end of political censorship, Petar Dimkov's books and writings became very popular again, and people began to look for his knowledge and healing skills.

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The-twelve-"golden-herbs-of-Petar-Dimkov"

The twelve "golden herbs of Petar Dimkov"

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Through phytotherapy - treatment with herbs, the Healer discovers and applies his own unique combinations of herbs, to which one should treat with particular care. There are some golden rules that the Healer hands over to us regarding the collection, preservation and preparation of medicinal herbs in order to have the best preserved qualities and useful effect:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Herbs should be picked fresh in early spring, and for winter, dried herbs should be prepared.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The timing of picking is important according to when the concentration of medicinal active ingredients is highest. For example, the roots are digging up in early spring or autumn. The fruits are collected during their maturation.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Proceed very carefully with the collection and avoid the use of plastic bags that suffocate herbs.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Only visibly healthy and clean plants are picked, which do not get sick and do not have parasites on them.</li>
</ul>

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Here are these herbs and their applications in the folk medicine of Petar Dimkov:

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<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Agrimonia (Agrimonia eupatoria) - a herb that is used for sore throat, upset stomach, mild diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, gallbladder disorders, fluid retention. Petar Dimkov has also come up with a special recipe for blood purification, which includes all 12 herbs with 30 g. of each of them. Agrimony in his recipes is also recomended for losing excess weight.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pine tips (Pinus sylvestris L.) - contains valuable essential oil, resinous substances, vitamin C and other useful components. They are found in recipes for bronchitis, atherosclerosis, cleansing blood from toxins and maintaining a normal weight.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Speedwells&nbsp;("chief healer") (Veronica, plantaginaceae family) - applied for cough, bronchitis [ref. 6], diarrhea, chronic eczema, healing action against neurosis induced by mental overload, etc. </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nettle leaf (Urtica Dioica) - nettle has a proven diuretic, hemostatic and tonic effect. Also in scientific publications,the antioxidant, anti-ulcer and analgesic property of nettle is proven: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiulcer and analgesic activities of nettle (Urtica dioica L.). [ref.3]. There is evidence of effectiveness of nettle in arthritis, which we find in Evidence for antirheumatic effectiveness of Herba Urticae dioicae in acute arthritis: A pilot study [ref.4]. It is also used as a tool against springtime lethargy and anemia. In Dimkov's recipes, nettle is found as an integral part of tinctures or cosmetic formulas, in decoctions to alkalize the body and accelerate hair growth.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) - the beautiful yellow herb is beneficial as a tincture for nervous disorders and nerve diseases, and these effects are described in a small number of publications [ref.5]. The herb can also be enjoyed as a tea or baths can be made on half the body.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Yellow yarrow (Achillea clypeolata) -this perennial plant promotes normal digestion, can be applied topically to relieve skin rashes and itching [ref. 7, 8], it also relieves allergy symptoms, lowers high temperature, counteracts menorrhagia (abnormally profuse or prolonged menstrual bleeding), muscle spasms and others.</li>
</ol>

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There are six more amazing golden herbs, which we will present to you in the second part of this topic. Now enjoy the majesty and beauty of St. John's Wort.

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Sources-used

Sources used

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<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Post: Petar Dimkov: Real lives the one who does not live for himself!, <a href="https://portal12.bg/publikatsii/Petyr-Dimkov-Istinski-zhivee-onya-koyto-ne-zhivee-za-sebe-si-.p7904" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://portal12.bg/publikatsii/Petyr-Dimkov-Istinski-zhivee-onya-koyto-ne-zhivee-za-sebe-si-.p7904</a> </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The healing secrets of Colonel Petar Dimkov, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0wjTH65Ngs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0wjTH65Ngs</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gülçin I, Küfrevioglu OI, Oktay M, Büyükokuroglu ME. Antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiulcer and analgesic activities of nettle (Urtica dioica L.). J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Feb;90(2-3):205-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2003.09.028. PMID: 15013182. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15013182/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15013182/</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chrubasik S, Enderlein W, Bauer R, Grabner W. Evidence for antirheumatic effectiveness of Herba Urticae dioicae in acute arthritis: A pilot study. Phytomedicine. 1997 Jun;4(2):105-8. doi: 10.1016/S0944-7113(97)80052-9. PMID: 23195396. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23195396/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23195396/</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Klemow KM, Bartlow A, Crawford J, et al. Medical Attributes of St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor &amp; Francis; 2011. Chapter 11. Available from: <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92750/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92750/</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/en/pubmed/Antioxidant_and_Antimicrobial_Properties_of_Veronica_spicata_L_Plantaginaceae_26028041?&amp;ap=h" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.herbal-organic.com/en/pubmed/Antioxidant_and_Antimicrobial_Properties_of_Veronica_spicata_L_Plantaginaceae_26028041?&amp;ap=h</a> </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Saeidnia S, Gohari A, Mokhber-Dezfuli N, Kiuchi F. A review on phytochemistry and medicinal properties of the genus Achillea. Daru. 2011;19(3):173-186. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3232110/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3232110/</a> </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/en/pubmed/achillea_filipendulina_lam_chemical_constituents_and_antimicrobial_activities_of_essential_oil_of_stem_leaf_and_flower_32239617?&amp;ap=h" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.herbal-organic.com/en/pubmed/achillea_filipendulina_lam_chemical_constituents_and_antimicrobial_activities_of_essential_oil_of_stem_leaf_and_flower_32239617?&amp;ap=h</a> </li>
</ol>

A measure of every meal and positive thinking on every issue. Cultivating kindness and preserving positive thoughts and actions. Faith in the natural healing and recovery of the body. Faith in the gifts of nature and medicinal herbs. Release anxiety and life without stress. Instead, a life of understanding and helping our neighbour - a legacy that Peter Dimkov left for all of us and we will always remember and pay it forward.

The recipes of Petar Dimkov the Healer - scientific reading (part 1)

https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/9821b3f9-e890-4fee-b3ad-fd7616d9f6c0_middle.jpg

 The recipes of Petar Dimkov the Healer - scientific reading (part 1)

Adaptation of the text: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

The Russian state occupies vast territories with diverse climatic conditions and includes many peoples and their culture. This makes especially interesting the study of their folk medicine.

Medicinal plants have been used in the lands that make up modern Russia since ancient times. A study of numerous written sources shows that herbal treatments were applied by the Scythians living in the northern territories along the Black Sea coast between the Dniester and Don rivers (from the 7th century BC to the 1st century AD).

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The collection and use of medicinal plants in Russia became especially widespread during the reign of Peter I (1672-1725), who personally grew medicinal herbs in his private garden. &nbsp;

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This article is devoted to the most common herbal recipes from Russian folk medicine for the treatment of various dermatological diseases. Medicinal plants are well known and available in our country. The information is taken from the article "Russian traditional medicine in dermatology", published in 2018 in the journal Clinics in Dermatology. [<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X18300439" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

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The authors Prof. Dr. Olisova, Prof. Dr. Snarskaya, Prof. Dr. Gladko and Prof. Dr. Burova are dermatologists with long-standing practice in Moscow and London.