5 Herbs for natural health

Herbs are an extremely useful tool. They must, however, be used properly and in the right dosage. Herbs are administered in their diluted form as homeopathics. Homeopathics are a safe, effective way to administer healing doses of herbs to children and adults alike. Herbs taken in pure form are also healing, but caution is necessary when considering the herb and the dose. This article will focus on herbs in their pure form. A doctor should always be consulted when taking an herb to make sure that there will be no interactions with current medications.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies follow the idea that every disease that is found on the earth must also have a cure somewhere on the earth. The challenge is to find the herb that will work for the issue in question. A bit of knowledge regarding herbal remedies can go a long way. Most everyone knows that reaching for a common over-the-counter pain medication will help their headache go away, but what if we knew the same of herbs?

There are many forms in which herbs can be administered. Tea is an herb that has been put into hot or boiling water in order to leach the important substrates of the herb into the water so that it can be consumed. In the capsule form many herbs are ground and put into small gelatin capsules which will deliver the herb to our systems. Tinctures are extracts of herbs preserved in alcohol or other substances administered by the drop into the mouth. Often it is also wise and tasty to use our herbs as spices in our cooking! Herbs can also take the form of salves, oils, poultices and syrups, each of which has its own forum for use. Following will be 5 herbs that are easy to use and identify that can help to keep and maintain our health.

1. Turmeric. This herb has received much attention as of late, and for good reason. The benefits of turmeric are many. It can be considered and anti-inflammatory, blood cleanser, digestive aid, internal and external would healer and it helps to protect the liver. This herb is most often used in eastern dishes and is contained in curry powder. It contains a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient called curcumin that has even been studied as a tool for fighting cancers including breast, prostate and lung. Using this herb in your cooking could create a powerful advantage for your body.

2. Echinacea. Echinacea is considered the “natural antibiotic.” It is an excellent anti-inflammatory and can be used in just about any circumstance of infection including acne, poison ivy or oak venomous bites etc. It is also considered an anti-viral and has been proven effective in possible prevention and increased recovery times for bacterial and viral infections. Many people enjoy echinacea as a tea, still others take it in capsule form or extract. Echinacea tea can be a nice daily addition to your routine, while up to three cups a day could help you to prevent an oncoming virus or shorten the life of a virus you already have.

3. Ginger. Ginger is an extremely versatile herb that has many uses. It is most popular for calming the stomach during periods of nausea and aiding in the decrease of mucous production during cold and flu. Ginger can be an excellent addition to everyday food and drink such as salad dressing, smoothies, juices, and sauces for vegetables. With cold or flu ginger can be served as a tea with a touch of honey. Alternatively ginger can be used externally to soothe aching muscles or joints. Just boil some ginger in water for a short time and use a cloth to soak up the water, applying it to the affected area.

4. Green Tea. Green tea is probably one of the most touted herbs of our time. Anywhere from one to three glasses of green tea a day are recommended to protect us from everything from heart disease to cancer. This tea contains high amounts of antioxidants that help to neutralize factors that would cause heart disease, viruses, gum disease, breast cancer and more. With such wonderful benefits there isn’t even time to argue….go get some!

5. Chamomile. Chamomile is a gentle herb that is widely used and extremely beneficial. It is known as the “calming herb.” Chamomile calms digestion and menstrual cramps and can help with nervousness and insomnia. Experiments are being performed to test the effectiveness of chamomile on ADHD in children and adults. The herb has been used for many years to calm colicky, teething, and irritable children and babies. Chamomile in a lotion or oil can also help to soothe and calm the skin. It’s richness in easily absorbable calcium is also being explored for possible benefits of healing in bone trauma and maintaining bone density. Most often chamomile is served as a tea or added to externally used lotions, oils, shampoos or soaps.

Herbs can be found at your local health food stores (see below to find healthfood stores in the Jacksonville area). It is best to purchase organic herbs and teas from a company that is trusted and reputable. Herbs, like any other produce, must be grown in a stable, nontoxic and nurturing environment in order to supply full effectiveness without supplying contaminants our bodies do not need. How can you begin to experience the benefit of herbs? Remember herbs while cooking. Don’t be afraid to spice up your dishes a bit. Another idea is to replace one soft drink or one cup of coffee per day with a healthy glass of green tea. Health is growing all around us…we just need to reach out for it!

From: 5 Herbs for natural health