Category: N
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Nosode
In homeopathy, a remedy made from a diseased source, such as tuberculinum, made from tissue infected with tuberculosis. A homeopathic vaccination. A very dilute pathological tissue sample, taken from the blood, feces, mucus, pus, or tissue of an infected or diseased organism, administered to a human to promote immunity against disease. Syphilinum, a nosode utilized…
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New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus)
Used as a tea substitute during the American Revolution. Indians made a wash for skin problems including skin cancer and venereal sores. A good gargle for mouth and throat sores.
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NSAIDs
An abbreviation for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation in such conditions as arthritis, tendinitis, backache, or sprains. Common over-the-counter NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin), naproxen sodium (Aleve), and ketoprofen (Orudis).
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Non-rem sleep
The deepest stages of sleep, characterized by a general absence of body movement and slow, regular brain activity.
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Neutral henna
An extract from the plant cassia obovata (not the henna plant used for hair dye). It does not color hair, but works well as a conditioner. Available at health food stores.
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Neroli Oil
The oil from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree, which is often used in fragrances. It is believed to have a soothing effect on the nervous system. Available at health food stores.
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Neem oil
A vegetable oil from the seeds of the neem, a type of evergreen tree. It can be used medicinally or as a natural pesticide. Available at health food stores and some gardening centers.
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Naphtha
A highly flammable liquid used to make camp stove fuel and as a cleaner. Available at hardware stores. A volatile inflammable liquid distilled from carbonaceous substances.
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Nettle
A perennial herb having dark green, heart-shaped leaves and stinging hairs that irritate the skin. Any plant of the genus Urtica. A nettle’s sawtoothed leaves contain hairs that secrete a fluid that irritates the skin. A type of leafy green vegetable that is cooked similarly to spinach in Europe, and is regarded as not only…
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Nasturtium
A peppery tasting, low-growing annual with spurred flowers that is high in tannin. A vibrant plant with blossoms that exhibit hues of orange and yellow, bearing a name that signifies “to twist the nose.” Similar to marigolds, this plant is seldom viewed as an herb used in culinary applications, although in the Orient, the petals…