🌿 Nasturtium

{"conditions_treated": ["Respiratory infections (bronchitis, coughs, chest congestion \u2014 natural antibiotic)", "Urinary tract infections (antimicrobial in urinary tract)", "Minor wounds and skin infections (antibacterial \u2014 topical)", "Scurvy (very high in vitamin C)", "Colds and flu (antimicrobial, vitamin C)", "Hair loss (traditional scalp tonic \u2014 stimulates circulation)", "Intestinal parasites (vermifuge \u2014 traditional use)"], "preparation_methods": ["Nasturtium tea: 1-2 tsp fresh leaves/flowers steeped 10 min; for respiratory infections and UTIs (spicy, warming)", "Tincture: 1:5 in 40% alcohol; 2-4ml 3x daily for respiratory/urinary infections", "Nasturtium vinegar: Leaves and flowers infused in apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp in water as antimicrobial tonic", "Infused oil: Flowers infused in carrier oil for scalp massage (hair loss) and skin infections", "Culinary medicine: Fresh leaves and flowers in salads \u2014 'nature's antibiotic' eaten regularly", "Poultice: Crushed leaves applied to minor wounds and skin infections", "Hair rinse: Strong infusion used as final hair rinse to stimulate scalp circulation"], "active_compounds": ["Glucotropaeolin (mustard oil glycoside \u2014 converts to benzyl isothiocyanate, a potent antimicrobial)", "Vitamin C (very high)", "Flavonoids", "Carotenoids", "Oxalic acid"], "toxicity_warnings": "Generally safe. Contains oxalic acid \u2014 those with kidney stones or oxalate sensitivity should avoid large quantities. Spicy/pungent \u2014 may irritate sensitive stomachs in large amounts. Avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy (mustard oil compounds). Do not use pure essential oil internally."}