10 Herbs For Your Medicine Cabinet

It's cold and flu season and managing the symptoms can be a nightmare. Dosing ourselves and our loved ones with O-T-C medicines can lead to an uneccesary build up of toxins in the body. And not to mention, cold and flu medicine just cover up the symptoms, they don't help kill off the virus or bacteria. Herbs exisist that contain vitamins and beneficial properties that speed up recovery time.

So, I've put a list together of 10 herbs for your medicine cabinet that you should try.

Peppermint

Headache? No problem. Upset stomach? No problem. Peppermint is definitely a staple for the herbal medicine cabinet. In a tea form it can help relieve upset stomachs, and overall improve gastrointestinal troubles. If you have the essential oil you can use it to relieve headaches by diluting in water or olive oil and dabbing on your temples.

Ginger

Is well known for its relief in stomach issues. But ginger has so many other medicinal properties for us to consider. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, decongestant, and more. You can use fresh ginger in warm water, as a steam inhalant, tea, or in capsule form from a reputable source.

Lemongrass

This herb is also an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and pain reliever. I like to keep fresh and dried lemongrass on hand at all times. At first sign of a cold or the flu I combine lemongrass and ginger together and use them in a steam tent.

Chamomile

Insomnia can strike anyone, this herb helps soothe the mind and body making it easier to rest. Chamomile tea can also be used as a skin wash - perfect for sensitive skin but can be used on all skin types. It's also a great herb for IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).

Garlic

The wonder herb for inflammation. Garlic has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Liquid garlic drops can be used for ear infections and adding it to your daily diet can reduce inflammation within the body. I highly recommend incorporating this into your diet (which is easily done.)

Aloe

Burns, rashes, dry skin, inflammation, bug bites and more. Aloe is wonderful - a true gift from the earth. Topically aloe soothes irritated skin and minor burns - like sunburn. It's also great for the digestive system.

Echinacea

Colds and coughs will be gone in just a few days with this herb. You can drink it in tea form or get it in tinctures, glycerites (for the alcohol intolerant) or capsules. Start taking this herb at the first sign of a cold or the flu and it will greatly reduce the discomfort and duration of the virus. *Please note, this herb is not for everyone. Discuss taking this with your doctor and do not take for prolonged periods of time.

White Willow Bark

The herb in which Aspirin is derived. White willow bark is great for headaches, migraines, and even acne. It has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties that can not be overlooked. You can take this in tea form as well as tinctures, glycerites and capsules.

St. Johns Wort

Sometimes we all need a little mood boost. Or maybe you or a loved one suffers from mild and intermittent depression or anxiety. If you aren't currently taking any pharmaceuticals for depression or anxiety, try giving St. John's Wort a try. I take it regularly and have seen amazing results. *Disclaimer: This herb can have serious adverse reactions with other medications. Consult your doctor and do your research before taking this.

Honey

Not technically and herb but it has amazing healing benefits. If you purchase locally and take regularly it can reduce seasonal allergy symptoms with its antihistamine properties. Honey also contains natural anti-microbial properties and skin healing benefits. Try adding a tablespoon or two into your daily diet and watch it work its magic.

**Disclaimer : These are all suggestions and should never be used in place of medical attention. If you have a serious ailment, please go to the doctor. Natural medicine should be used as complimentary medicine, alternative medicine, and preventative medicine. If you have any questions on using any herb or using herb(s) in conjunction with medications you are currently taking, please contact me by email.

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