The world of herbal medicine is old and wise. Don’t get me wrong, we are blessed to all be living in such a medically advanced world, but the truth is western medicine is not affordable and available for everyone, nor does it work for everyone. Herbs have been used medicinally since the beginning of time and there is a reason why so many people still turn to them for help. Herbal remedies are a safe and natural way of treating all sorts of ailments without worrying about damaging your body with harmful chemicals. Let’s take a look at some must have herbs to keep around the house.
1) Lavender
Lavender is a sort of powerhouse herb. The smell of lavender alone is thought to ease headaches, reduce stress, and relieve anxiety. It is also antibacterial and an all-around calming agent. Here are some ways to use lavender:
• Step up your bath game by throwing some lavender in. The steam and heat from the bath will help the plant release its natural essential oils, filling your bath water with its calming and stress relieving fragrance.
• Make some lavender tea before bedtime to help you sleep and wind down.
• Incorporate it in your baking. Lavender cookies, lavender tarts, lavender syrup, use lavender however you like for a sweet and healing treat.
2) Chamomile
Another lovely herb with calming properties. However, chamomile is best known as a digestive aid. Feeling bloated, constipated, or nauseous? Chamomile is here to save the day.
• Make chamomile tea. If your tummy has been a little unhappy lately, some chamomile tea and honey will surely do the trick.
• Add it to your bath. To enjoy chamomiles soothing and relaxing qualities, add the flowers to your bath and let the sweet chamomile steam take away all your worries.
3) Eucalyptus
Fresh and energising, eucalyptus is a life saver during flu season. Its antiseptic and warming properties help treat sore throats, runny or stuffy noses, and headaches associated with coughs or colds.
• Drop some eucalyptus leaves in some boiled water and inhale the steam to relieve cold and flu symptoms. Eucalyptus vapour acts as a decongestant.
• Similarly, adding some eucalyptus leaves to a bath or hot shower can loosen any phlegm and help you breathe easy again.
• Make a little homemade gargle with some water and eucalyptus leaves. Once the mixture has cooled, gargle with it to ease a sore throat and keep your breath fresh and bacteria free.
4) Cilantro
Cilantro has always been a hot topic of controversy, especially since half the population can’t stand the taste of it due to a genetic variation that makes it taste like soap. However, cilantro is a powerful digestive aid and toxin remover, making it a must have in the kitchen.
• Incorporate it into your cooking. Cilantro is extremely rich in antioxidants and overall beneficial to your health. It promotes a healthy heart, immune system, and digestive system, so if you don’t mind the taste of it, start incorporating it into your daily meals.
• Eat it raw. Cilantro, as well as mint or basil, contain chlorophyll, which helps fight odour causing bacteria in your mouth, leaving your breath fresh and clean.
Mother Earth is abundant and generous, and her healing power knows no bounds. These, along with many other herbs, can be bought or grown easily and will add nothing but vibrancy and health to your life. Not to mention, each of these herbs have a number of properties which means you can use them in many different ways. Make cleaning products, bath products, or custom tea blends. The world is your oyster, and it is filled with plenty of life changing herbs that can be grown in the comfort of your own home. So what are you waiting for!
