Most of us want fast results when we are sick and miserable. Typically people buy non-prescription drugs over the counter because they don't know there are other treatments available. For many health conditions using herbal remedies derived from plants is a healthy alternative. It is best to plan ahead and learn which herbal remedies may work for a specific health condition.
The following list of common herbs is an example of possible health benefits for treating some ailments. Herbal remedies are prepared in many forms such as teas, herbal extracts (tinctures), capsules or loose/dried in a bag.
Chamomile
This herb is popular as a tea and can calm nerves, relieve stomach distress, prevent ulcers, and help fight infection. Chamomile may be used to relieve morning sickness during pregnancy, to treat gastritis and ulcerative colitis, and may be used to speed healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or burns.
Dong Quia
Dong quai has been used in Asia for thousands of years as a tonic for the female reproductive system. It also balances and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Feverfew
Several studies confirm feverfew's value in preventing migraines. Feverfew may be used as an anti-inflammatory for relief of arthritis, to relieve some types of menstrual problems, and as a digestive aid.
Garlic
Many studies have shown health benefits of garlic. Garlic has been used as protection against colds and flu. In addition, garlic may help lower cholesterol, prevent blood clots, reduce blood pressure and protect against bacterial and fungal infections. Studies have shown that garlic may have a positive role in the prevention of coronary heart disease, thrombosis and arteriosclerosis.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries to control nausea and for reducing inflammation.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is found in popular herbal blends for relieving intestinal and gallbladder inflammation. It also has been used to soothe inflamed or infected mucous membranes. Goldenseal may be used to reduce colds, flu and other respiratory infections especially at the beginning of infection. Goldenseal has both anti-infective and immune-system stimulating properties that may shorten the course of the illness.
Licorice
Licorice is an important herb for treating a host of ailments. It may help as an anti-inflammatory and to soothe stomach upset and control coughs. Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands and may help the body cope with stress.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil calms the stomach, the intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It can also reduce the inflammation of nasal passages and relieve muscle pains.
SAFETY
Herbal remedies may be safer and have fewer side effects than prescription medicines. Always read the label and use only the recommended dosage. Do not take any herbs during pregnancy --- check with your doctor first. If you are currently taking any prescription medicines always check with your doctor before using herbal remedies or before starting any health supplement program.
Herbs are a healthy alternative for treating many health conditions. Read and save articles like this in a small notebook and create your own research library with health benefits of each herb. There are many resources available online that outline specific health conditions and recommend herbs.
Herbs can be purchased online or at local health food stores. In addition, for treating specific health conditions, you may want to work with a naturopath or an acupuncturist.
Disclaimer: The information presented is only for discussion. Check with your doctor before beginning any new treatment. And always make sure your doctor is aware of any natural or herbal product (including vitamins and supplements) you are using, as some may interact with prescription medications. Results and personal experiences will vary from person to person.
Copyright (C) 2007
Kidney Stones Herbal Remedies
Instead of regular antibiotics or conventional medicines which often have side effects, herbal remedies are safe, tried and tested alternatives. Right from traditional remedies like turmeric, which clears the blood of toxins and impurities to using Ginseng extracts, which help promote longevity; herbs have been in used for ages.
Aloe Vera
Easily regarded as one of the skin’s best friends, the juice of the Aloe Vera plant helps cure rashes, itches as well as pigmentation problems. The green gel-like juice is extracted from the plant and can be directly applied over the affected parts.
Garlic
Garlic has been known as the cholesterol fighter. It helps in promoting healthy heart tissue and reduces the bad fat that blocks the arteries of the heart. It also helps in curing ulcers inside the stomach as well as reducing the presence of certain kinds of cancer. Colon cancer is one such cancer form which can be prevented with regular intake of garlic. The smell can be a bit pungent if taken in raw form which is why ready capsules are available these days.
Mint
Mint leaves have cooling properties and is great when taken internally or used in face packs. The plant has special healing properties for skin plagued with serious acne and spots. Especially when they are used in combination with clay, the effect can be almost miraculous! So do away with all those expensive creams and focus on Mother Nature instead.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene. This substance has been known to be a tough fighter of free radicals which can destroy healthy skin cells. Research has also found that regular intake of tomatoes in the diet can help combat signs of ageing as well as skin damage from the sun. When applied externally tomatoes can help promote a healthy, radiant and luminous complexion.
Chamomile
Chamomile is widely used in treating digestive ailments. It not only soothes inflammations inside the lining of the intestines but also cures spasms in the muscles.
Chaste tree
This plant has been known to relieve common symptoms associated with pre-menstrual cycles. It can cure symptoms like headaches, irritability, mood swings as well as pain in the stomach.
Coffee
If you have felt more agile and alert after drinking your daily dose of coffee then there is a scientific truth behind it. The caffeine inside coffee helps stimulate the mind. Many athletes also use it in order to improve their performance on the track. Coffee granules when rubbed onto the skin can help reduce cellulite as well.
Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice enjoys a widespread reputation as being a fighter of bladder infections. Anyone who has undergone a urinary tract infection knows the pain and suffering it can cause. Cranberry juice can help in fighting the infection and reducing the pain to a large extent.
Ginger
Ginger is great for curing any kind of nausea. So if you are pregnant and suffer from morning sickness or if you suffer from motion sickness while flying or at sea then ginger can come to the rescue.
Hibiscus
The beautiful red colored trumpet shaped flowers of the Hibiscus can help relieve hypertension. The flower can be used in making Hibiscus tea which can alleviate hypertension symptoms and lower both diastolic and systolic blood pressures.
Lavender
If you have ever soaked your feet in warm water infused with lavender essential oil then you know how soothing it is! Lavender is known as a calming and soothing herb which relaxes a person. It promotes positive thinking, lowers anxiety levels and calms the mind.
Green tea
Green tea is another powerful antioxidant which helps fight free radicals that destroy cells in the body. Apart from this, it improves the health of the heart, prevents cancer as well as alleviates bad breath symptoms. The green tea contains compounds which stop the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.
Tea tree oil
The oil extracted from the tea tree plant is a powerful antibacterial substance. It is a very useful herbal medicine in treating conditions of bacteria as well as fungus. Right from ringworm to yeast infections to even acne on the face, tea tree oil can help cure all of these! However, this oil should never be ingested internally as it can damage nerves. It must only be applied topically.
Gotu Kola
This ancient Ayurvedic herb has been known to enhance the circulation of blood in the body. It also regenerates skin cells while also helping to make the hair, connective tissues as well as nails stronger. Gotu Kola is a very vital part of traditional Indian medicine and is widely used in the treatment of skin infections.
Milk Thistle
The Milk Thistle plant has a substance called silymarin which protects the liver to a great extent. The plant has also been known to regenerate liver cells and thus, can help in the treatment of even serious ailments like jaundice and hepatitis. In situations where the liver has been under stress from excessive alcohol intake or infection, the Milk Thistle can help in curing it.
Both Wayne Mcdonald & Keith Jacobsen Sr. are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Wayne Mcdonald has sinced written about articles on various topics from Energy Healing, Marketing and Parental Care. Natural Herbal Remedies from A-Z. Learn more about Safe Herbal Treatments listed by disease and health condition. Visit us online at
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