Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. From chamomile to ashwagandha, echinacea to garlic, and ginger, there are many herbs that have healing properties. In this article, we will explore the medicinal benefits of some of the most common medicinal herbs. Chamomile (Flower) is considered by some to be a cure-all and is often found in clean supplements brands.It is commonly used in the United States for its calming and relaxing effects.
It is also used in Europe to help heal wounds and reduce inflammation and swelling. Chamomile is available in the form of tea and capsules, and can be mixed with honey, ghee or water for a more palatable taste. Most people don't immediately feel the effects of chamomile, so it may take weeks before the benefits are noticed. However, it is generally safe for most adults, although it can cause allergic reactions and should not be taken if pregnant or taking certain medications.
Ashwagandha (Root, Rhizome) is a woody plant native to Africa and Asia that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. It is said to increase energy levels, decrease anxiety and stress, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve male sexual health by increasing testosterone levels in men. Ashwagandha is available in the form of capsules, tincture and powder as a dietary supplement. Common side effects include drowsiness, gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea.
Echinacea (Flowering Plant) is a daisy-like flower native to eastern and central North America. The leaf, stem and root of echinacea are commonly used for medicinal purposes. It has traditionally been used as a remedy for toothache, intestinal pain, snake bites, seizures, skin irritation, arthritis and pain. Today it is widely used to prevent or shorten the duration of the common cold and flu, as well as promote wound healing.
Echinacea can be harmful to the digestive system and can cause stomach upset. It should only be used in the short term as long-term use may affect the body's immune system and liver. People who are allergic to plants in the daisy family should avoid using echinacea. Garlic (Perennial Plant) is native to Central Asia but now cultivated all over the world by many cultures.
It has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties such as preventing infections, lowering blood pressure, treating tuberculosis, colic, liver disease, intestinal worms, reducing fever and more recently reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Garlic can be consumed both cooked and raw but should not be taken if taking blood thinners or anti-rejection drugs as it may interact negatively with these medications. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a plant with a leafy stem and greenish-yellow flowers originally from Asia and India that has been widely used since the 16th century in many traditional medicines around the world. Ginger is best known for its ability to reduce nausea, pain and vomiting as well as its anti-inflammatory properties.
It can be consumed both cooked or raw but should not be taken before surgery or dental procedures due to its potential to increase bleeding.
