An overview and brief primer of the benefits of common medicinal herbs.

Common Medicinal Uses of Herbs

CAUTION:

Herbal preparations affect everyone differently, so make sure that a particular herbal remedy is right for you! Always research possible side effects and drug interactions and consult your doctor before taking or using any medicinal herb.

Aloe Vera
Externally, aloe is well known as a wound healer. It has a soothing effect on burns, especially sunburn, as it is cooling and moisturizing. Simply cut off a small piece of a mature plant, and apply it to the affected area. Internally, aloe juice is a great detoxifier. This can be purchased at a health food store.

Basil
Basil is great for digestion, and headaches. It is soothing to the soul especially in the winter when the blahs get you down.

Black Cohash
This herb is used mostly for treating premenstrual syndrome and menopause symptoms because of it's ability to effect the endocrine system.

Borage
This makes a wonderful mood lifting tea, and it also helps revive adrenal glands.

Catnip
A member of the mint family, catnip is known for it's intoxicating effects on felines. For us, however, catnip has calming effect when chewed or taken in a tea. Like most herbs, it is also good for digestion.

Cayenne
In short, cayenne brings heat and blood to an area. It is a very potent stimulant. Cayenne does wonders for the circulatory system, as it helps repair arteries and veins, and regulates blood flow. Cayenne tones internal organs, helps with constipation, and encourages mucous to move. Simply mix a teaspoon of cayenne powder with water and consume, or, of course, use it in food. Cayenne should not be given to infants or those with kidney problems.

Chamomile
Chamomile is commonly known as a calming herb, but it is also good in baths or poultices to help with migraines and headaches. This herb is good for digestion upsets, mild anxiety, and a cup of chamomile tea before bed will help you sleep.

Comfrey
Comfrey is also known as "knitbone" due to it's healing abilities, but unfortunately there is some debate over whether comfrey is carcinogenic when taken internally. Externally though, comfrey root is safe and effective in poultices to quicken the healing of skin abrasions, sprains, burns, cuts, and fractures.

Dandelion
Probably most widely known as a pesky weed, dandelion is entirely edible and full of vitamins and minerals. It is an effective tonic, and it's bitterness really gets that bile flowing. Dandelion root is excellent for the liver.

Dill
Dill is used mostly for digestive ails, but is also good for the stomach, flatulence, and promoting the flow of breast milk.

Dong Quai
Traditionally used in Chinese Medicine, dong quai is known today for helping women who are undergoing menopause or menstrual problems.

Echinacea
Used widely for it's positive effects on the immune system, echinacea is a detoxifier (as it cleans the blood) and antibiotic. It helps prevent and treat colds and flu, as well as respiratory and urinary infections. Native North Americans used echinacea to treat snake bites.