Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. From chamomile to gingko, turmeric to evening primrose oil, flaxseed to tea tree oil, and echinacea to ashwagandha, there are many herbs with medicinal properties that can be used to improve health and wellbeing. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of these herbs and how they can be used safely and effectively. Chamomile is one of the most popular medicinal herbs in the United States. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and calming properties, and is often used as a tea to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Studies suggest that chamomile may also help reduce symptoms of the common cold. However, more research is needed to understand its full potential. Gingko is an ancient tree species with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. Its leaves are used to create capsules, tablets, extracts, and when dried, can be consumed as tea. Studies suggest that gingko may help improve brain health and slow cognitive decline in dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
It is also believed to have anti-cancer properties. Turmeric is native to India and has been used as a medicinal herb for 4,000 years. It is a key ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Studies suggest that turmeric may help treat a variety of dermatological diseases and joint arthritis. Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. Studies suggest that it has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and diabetic neuropathy.
It may also help reduce breast pain. However, it can interact with certain medications, so it's important to speak with your doctor before taking it. Flaxseed is one of the few vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids. It is believed to have antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory benefits, and may help prevent colon cancer. Flaxseed can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, salads, stews, homemade breads or milkshakes for added nutrition.
It is also available in the form of tablets or oil. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial superpowers that may help with wounds and topical infections. Studies suggest that it may help with acne and scalp use. However, more research is needed to understand its full potential. Tea tree oil should always be diluted in a carrier oil before use. Echinacea has been used for centuries as medicine in the form of teas, juices and extracts.
Studies suggest that it may help shorten the symptoms of the common cold, but more research is needed to verify this benefit. Echinacea is generally safe for most adults but can cause side effects such as drowsiness or gastrointestinal upset. Ashwagandha comes from the plant Withania somnifera and has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. It is believed to increase energy levels, decrease anxiety and stress, reduce pain and inflammation, improve male sexual health, increase testosterone levels in men, support erectile dysfunction, increase libido (sexual desire) and improve sexual pleasure. Ashwagandha is available in the form of capsules, tincture or powder as a dietary supplement. It can be mixed with honey, ghee or water or added to milkshakes, desserts or coffee or tea for added nutrition.
Most people don't immediately feel the effects of ashwagandha; it may take weeks before its benefits are noticed. In general, these herbs are safe for most adults when taken as directed. However, it's important to speak with your doctor before taking any herbal remedies as they can interact with certain medications or cause side effects such as drowsiness or gastrointestinal upset.
