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Times have changed, and strides in medicine research have brought many prescription drugs within our reach. Even with manufactured drugs being mainstream, people still find themselves turning back to herbal remedies and medicinal plants that began it all. Many powerful herbs and teas have properties that promote physical and mental wellbeing. If you are an organic lover that appreciates what nature has to offer concerning herbs, you are in the right place! Here are some powerful herbs to try, but always make sure you do your own research on any contraindications first.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba) is one of the oldest trees that date back to more than 150 million years ago. The tree is native to China, Japan, and Korea but is also grown in Europe and the US. Seeing that it has been around for a while, it has been used for several purposes. It is known for its ability to boost brain health. The leaves are usually taken by mouth to manage memory problems like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
They can also be used to make capsules and tablets or dried for consumption as tea. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are a huge factor in its host of benefits. Ginkgo can also improve blood circulation and impact the operation of neurotransmitters in the brain. Other conditions that ginkgo treats are anxiety, depression, blood pressure, insufficient blood flow to the brain, schizophrenia, and altitude sickness.
This natural spice with the brilliant orange hue may be the most effective nutritional supplement that exists. Originating in India, turmeric is believed to have many benefits for the brain and the body. Most of the benefits that it boasts come from its most active compound, curcumin. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be taken as a supplement. Turmeric is also believed to have the potential to prevent cancer and Alzheimer’s and also improve heart health. It can also help with symptoms of depression and also offers comfort for people with arthritis. It is also widely used as a cooking ingredient.
Calendula is also referred to as pot marigold. This centuries-old herb has numerous benefits. The cheerful yellow and orange daisy-like flowers have skin-soothing properties and are often added to most diaper creams and natural cosmetics. Calendula has antifungal and antiseptic properties making it a good bet for healing wounds.
It is a freely reseeding plant that blooms all season long. If your garden receives full sun, calendula makes for a great addition. Harvest the petals when they are fresh or opt to dry full blooms just before they form seeds.
Cilantro is well known for its unique flavour. The flavour is so distinct, and most people either love it or hate it. The leaves are commonly used to garnish many different kinds of dishes. The seeds, which are referred to as coriander, are also a welcome ingredient in many curries, especially in Indian cuisine.
Most people do not think of cilantro as a medicinal herb. However, the herb is known to help digestion. It also helps to remove heavy metals and other toxic agents from the body. You can add it to your garden. It does well in cool and moist conditions but will quickly bolt in hot weather.
Moringa has been applauded for thousands of years for its health benefits. It is one of the most nutrient-dense plants with its origin traced back to native India. Perhaps you are wondering what is moringa good for and why all the buzz around it. Well, Moringa is rich in vitamins and essential amino acids, antioxidants, and bioactive plant compounds that promote good health. Dried moringa leaves are used as dietary supplements. They can be used in powder or capsule form.
Lemon balm is a fragrant lemon-scented herb that hails from the same family as mint. It is native to Europe, West Asia, and North Africa but is commonly grown across the world. The herb improves mood and cognitive function, but these benefits are only the tip of the iceberg. The oils, bitters, and tannins in the lemon balm leaves and flowers have an antispasmodic and relaxing effect on the stomach and nervous system. Lemon balm can help to combat viruses like herpes simplex when used topically. You can grow this calming and uplifting perennial to add a touch of bright green to your garden. Seeing that lemon balm is somewhat tasty and gentle enough for kids, you can throw it in your tea or tincture with a glycerine base.
Rosemary is popularly known as a culinary herb. This great reviver that stems from the mint family does more than taste good. The herb has been in traditional medicine for centuries. The perennial woody herb helps to sharpen memory and stimulate energy and optimism. Its stimulating effects make it a great alternative to caffeine when you need a little kick. The rosemary plant helps to treat muscle and bone pain, headaches, and seizures. It can also reduce inflammation and help to relax smooth muscles.
Rosemary essential oil with a woodsy fragrance is commonly used in aromatherapy. Inhaling the aroma of rosemary essential oil helps to manage stress and anxiety. It does that by lowering the levels of the stress hormone cortisol. You can dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil like olive oil so that you can apply it to your skin without getting adverse side effects.
Mullein has soothing effects that help to treat bronchial respiratory infections. It has been used for thousands of years to treat breathing problems. The leaves of mullein are usually added to cough medicines. Some people ingest mullein by mouth to help with coughs, asthma, pneumonia, sore throats, and colds.
Thyme is a delicate stem that was believed to increase bravery and keep off nightmares by people in the Middle Ages. In the modern-day, it is used for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It helps to prevent colds and the flu.
This perennial herb native to the Western Mediterranean region is an excellent addition to aromatherapy. Lavender essential oil is a natural alternative for pain relief, especially for people with migraines. It is used to ease anxiety and help with sleep.
If you love organic, then give some of these herbs a try! You are bound to reap the benefits that our ancestors enjoyed for ages. You can experiment with the herbs in food, drinks, and more!
Welcome to Birds and Lilies! I'm Lou: mother, blogger and freelance writer. This is my lifestyle blog, where I talk about motherhood, infertility and IVF, beauty, my love for food and wine, as well as my thoughts about stuff, and our real-life and travel adventures.
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