Teresa M
Herbal remedies are plants that have a ‘medicinal effect’. They have been around for thousands of years. In fact, some evidence suggests that plants were used for medicinal purposes over 60,000 years ago and the earliest written evidence dates back to over 5,000 years ago!
Plants contain powerful chemicals that many pharmaceutical companies and scientists are studying to date and the plants used for herbal remedies have been making a real comeback in recent years – and you’ll be glad to know they are easy to find.
In this post you will discover six herbal remedies you can find in the shops or can be grown quite easily in your garden. Using these plants in your diet can have a significant effect on your health and overall wellbeing.
These 6 herbal remedies can often be just as effective as pharmaceuticals in the prevention and treatment of disease:
1. Lavender
One of my all time favourites, lavender is well known for its gentle sedative and nervine properties plus it can be easily grown in the garden.
- It helps to promote sleep, decrease anxiety and lifts the mood.
- It’s also great for soothing stomach issues and reduce excess gas.
- Combines really well with chamomile for a truly relaxing tea!
2. Garlic
Garlic is widely available and a potent herbal remedy. Most people enjoy the taste of garlic, despite the bad breath associated with it!
- Garlic has been shown to significantly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms.
- Hypertension responds positively to garlic consumption. In fact, garlic is at least as effective in treating hypertension as some medications.
- Garlic also lowers cholesterol levels, may help prevent Alzheimer’s, and
could help with the process of removing heavy metals from the body.
Traditionally, turmeric is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a powerful anti-inflammatory herb and is also a popular spice in Indian food.
Turmeric is also readily available in any grocery shop and its primary active ingredient is curcumin (which gives the spice its vibrant golden hue)
- Turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties is as effective as aspirin and
ibuprofen in treating inflammation. - It is also believed to be beneficial in
treating and preventing cancer. - Depression, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s are also believed to be helped by the consumption of this powerhouse plant.
4. Ginger
Another very common grocery shop item, ginger is excellent for the treatment of nausea and morning sickness.
Ginger can be used as a spice or made into tea.
- You can use it to help treat muscle pain and soreness.
- Ginger is another excellent anti-inflammatory.
- Indigestion, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol can all be reduced by
ginger. - Its ‘stimulant‘ properties has a ‘warming effect‘ on the body which is excellent in cases of bad circulation, chilblains, colds and chills.
5. Valerian root
Valerian is nicknamed ‘Phu’ due to its incredibly strong and unpleasant smell!
The plant might be a little harder to find. In fact, you’ll probably have to grow this one on your own, but it’s worth the effort. This flowering plant has many health benefits.
- It’s also known as ‘nature’s tranquillizer’ and contains sedative and anxiety actions that can help soothe the brain and nervous system.
- Headaches, digestive issues, muscle pain, fatigue can all be helped by valerian root.
It’s considered one of the world’s most oldest and valued healing plants that dates back to the ancient Egyptians
This daisy-like flower is most commonly consumed in tea form and is widely available from any health shop.
- Chamomile is believed to treat insomnia, reduce cold symptoms, boost immunity, and lower stress levels.
- It can also help relieve gas and is excellent for use on skin and hair.
- Great for soothing irritable babies and restless children.
Herbal remedies can’t replace all pharmaceutical drugs, but they are viable replacements in many situations.
Of course, you should still include your doctor in your herbal remedy plans.
Herbal remedies can be very effective and inexpensive. £1 of garlic can easily last a week. If your budget is tight, herbal remedies can be a great way to boost your health without breaking the bank.
Even if you’re in 100% perfect health, herbal remedies can help to keep you healthy. You literally have nothing to lose!
In fact, I guarantee your food will taste even more delicious all while you’re making your body healthier!
Have you tried any of the herbs mentioned for treating any ailments? Do you use herbs in your cooking? Perhaps you grow your own herbs and use it for remedies. I’d love to hear your comments!
Peace be with you
Teresa
