Herbal remedies
Herbal medicine also called botanical medicine and refers to using a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Herbalism has a long tradition of use outside of conventional medicine.
The herbs listed here have been used over many years by herbal healers to treat various conditions.
Vervain is known to be a good remedy for coughs and colds. It aids against the wheezing and shortness of breath that comes with fevers.
Wintergreen is known for its cooling properties, flavoring everything from mouthwash to gum. Medicinally, it can be used topically on wounds and internally to aid ulcers in the kidney and bladder. The plant contains a natural antiseptic
Rosemary has been used to treat headaches, epilepsy and poor circulation. It can also be used as a disinfectant in the form of mouth wash and also to treat fever. It is also reported to stop dandruff and improve memory.
Sage is helpful for head pains, hoarseness, and cough. It is one of the best-known remedies for laryngitis, tonsillitis and sore throats. An infusion of the herb sweetened with honey is mildly laxative and stimulates menstrual flow.
Chamomile is said to take away weariness and pain/inflammation of the bowels. The oil from the flowers can be used against many pains and aches, including joint cramps. Chamomile is also helpful in healing migraines and regulating menstrual periods.
Feverfew is known as an effective treatment for migraine headaches and fevers. It may also help ease diseases like arthritis.
Lavender prevents fainting and allays nausea. In oil form, it is often used in therapeutic baths to reduce stress. It can also lower blood pressure. A small amount makes a useful application on skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis.
Primrose is a sedative, induces rest and sleep by reducing tension. An infusion of the root taken in spoonful doses is effective in healing headaches. It has also been used for treating gout and rheumatism.
Turmeric is a spice that lends its distinctive yellow color to Indian curries, has long been used to aid digestion and liver function, relieve arthritis pain, and regulate menstruation.
Eucalyptus oil is commonly used in an over-the-counter cough and cold medications, as well as for an analgesic. You can use fresh eucalyptus leaves to prepare an herbal tea that will help ease your sore throat and break up congestion. Use 1/4-to-1/2 teaspoon in a cup of hot water and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain the leaves from the tea before drinking. Drink this tea three times daily to ease your symptoms.
Dandelion Tea - Use dried or fresh dandelion leaves suitable for tea are available at some health-food stores. To make tea, pour hot water onto about 1 teaspoon dried leaves or one-quarter cup fresh leaves and allow to steep for five to 10 minutes before drinking.
Ginger is chiefly known as an anti-inflammatory agent, nausea reliever and digestive aid. Ginger is widely known for its digestive effects. For example, many people are familiar with the use of ginger ale for easing an upset stomach. This is also the area that has been extensively studied.
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract has been used to treat asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, Alzheimer's and tinnitus.
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