General Considerations

Indications: Rheumatoid diseases, muscle tension, arthrosis. Also used in menstrual cramping, chronic liver disease and vegetative dystonia.

Contraindications: Allergy to grass flowers, acute neuralgia (ice therapy is better), circulatory instability. Can be safely used in patients on warfarin (Phenprocoumon).

Action: Reduces pain, increases the local blood flow, thereby enhancing tissue metabolism, reduces increased muscle tone, increases the elasticity of the connective tissues, is calming and relaxing.

Materials

– Grass flowers, linen or cotton bag, safety pins or commercial grass flower pillow

– Towel, flannel sheet, or large bath towel

– Wide pot and colander that fits on top, pressure cooker with colander element or hospital pressure heater

Procedure

Preparation: Fill the cloth bag with the hay flowers until half full, leaving plenty of room for expansion after wetting. Close the bag securely with safety pins. Pour water into the wide pot and heat to boiling, then place the colander on top. Place the grass flower pillow on the colander or leaf steamer and steam-heat for approximately 30 minutes.

Application: Carefully place the hot pillow over the troubled area, as hot as the patient can stand it. Cover with a towel to prevent leakage, and wrap snugly in the flannel sheet.

Duration of treatment: 20 to 40 minutes, or until the pillow has become too cool.

Aftercare: Remove the grass flower pillow and re-wrap the treated area in the flannel sheet. Allow the patient to rest for 30 minutes. Each grass flower pillow can be used 4 to 5 times before discarding. Use only on the same patient. Hang to air-dry after each use.

Frequency of treatment: 1 to 2 times daily.

General Considerations