Did you know that herbs and spices can be used for so much more than merely adding flavor to our food? It’s true! They actually contain numerous therapeutic compounds making them effective for dealing with all sorts of health issues. In fact, before mainstream medicine came onto the scene, herbs were the primary way to treat illnesses and other health issues.
As I started to become interested in living a more natural life, I began researching different herbs and their uses. I mean, if I could use an herb to treat certain problems in a natural way, why not do it? Now, I have a pretty good stash of herbs on hand at all times so that I can treat minor health issues naturally for everybody in my house.
Many herbs have multiple uses, making them a good investment since you can use one herb for various different physical complaints. Today, I’m going to share with you five healing herbs that can be utilized for just about any ailment.
Our Favorite Healing Herbs
1. Chamomile
Chamomile is, by far, one of the most widely used herbs. Most people know of it because of its popularity as a tea, but did you know that it is also one of the most versatile herbs? Chamomile is delicious when sipped as a hot beverage, but it is so much more than just a popular tea!
It’s a calming herb that is often used to help when stress, anxiety, or pent-up energy are a problem. It is also frequently used for digestive disorders as it can be very soothing to the stomach.
Additionally, chamomile contains anti-inflammatory properties that make it beneficial for many types of skin problems. In fact, it’s one of my favorite herbs for skin issues, and I frequently use it in bath teas, as well. When using chamomile, the sky’s the limit!
2. Peppermint
Peppermint has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, dating as far back as the ancient Egyptians and Romans. It is used to add flavor to sweet and savory dishes, and as a common ingredient in herbal teas.
Having long been considered an effective remedy for digestive problems, peppermint is often used to make digestive teas and other formulations to soothe tummy troubles. In fact, it is my favorite herb for stomach complaints.
Due to the menthol content, peppermint is also frequently used to treat respiratory illnesses. It can be made into a tea and sipped with honey, or an herbal oil can be made with the plant material. I like to use both peppermint and eucalyptus to make an herbal oil for use in a DIY chest balm that helps with congestion and coughs.
3. Oregano
Oregano is a phenomenal herb that contains potent antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal compounds. It is especially beneficial when used to fight off illness.
A popular remedy on the market today, oil of oregano is frequently taken as an alternative to conventional antibiotics. It is easily found in most natural health food stores and can be purchased in capsule form or as an extract.
Another great way to utilize the amazing detoxifying and illness-fighting properties of this herb is to incorporate it liberally in your cooking. When we consume the herb in its whole form, we take in all of the special properties contained within each wondrous plant.
So, to help protect the immune system, promote detoxification, and fight off illness, simply start adding more fresh oregano to your meals. Not only will it taste delicious, but you’ll be reaping all of the beneficial effects this herb has to offer!
4. Calendula
Calendula is a lovely little plant that also happens to contain potent anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the most commonly used herbs when dealing with skin issues of various kinds due to its ability to soothe and stimulate healing. It has also traditionally been used for sore throats and even digestive problems.
This herb can be made into a tea, or an herbal oil to create skin-healing balms or creams. It’s a wonderful addition to lip balms or skin-care formulations, but my favorite way to use calendula is in an all-purpose skin-healing balm for burns, bites, scrapes, wounds, or skin inflammation.
And I would venture to say that if you have children, this is definitely an herb you’ll want to have on hand for the many boo-boos that you will no doubt encounter with your little ones!
5. Turmeric
Turmeric has been increasing in popularity exponentially over the last several years and for good reason. It has a long history of use for many different ailments, including infection and indigestion. More recently, however, turmeric has been lauded for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric can be consumed in capsule or extract form, or the powdered herb can even be mixed with milk in a simple golden milk recipe. However, it should be noted that turmeric is better absorbed by the body when consumed with piperine, which can be found in black pepper. So, to take full advantage of turmeric’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, make sure to take it with a healthy dose of black pepper!
As you can see, with just a handful of herbs, you can have natural remedies on hand for most minor health issues you may encounter! In this article, I’ve barely scratched the surface, but there are so many incredible herbs with numerous indications. I encourage you to familiarize yourself with herbs and find the various ways to use them—you won’t regret it!
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Gina Jansheski, a licensed, board-certified pediatrician who has been practicing for more than 20 years. Learn more about Hello Glow's medical review board here. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
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