Healthy Herbs For Better Health

By Kate McMahon


Long before individuals went to doctors and pharmacies for the medication needed to keep them feeling well, they turned to healthy herbs. These herbal remedies helped to strengthen the immune system and relieve pain. They were often dried so they could be preserved for use when out of season; however, this does cause some loss of the healthy benefits the plants have to offer.

Even though these remedies have been used for centuries and are natural, they can also cause undesirable side effects. Before combining herbs with any other medication, talk with a pharmacist or your doctor about any possible interactions. Nursing mothers as well as pregnant women should talk with their doctor about any problems the herb could cause for their baby.

Echinacea is an immune system stimulant. It was first used by Native Americans, but today is understood to help produce lymphocytes that help to destroy viruses and foreign bacteria. Some evidence suggests this herb should not be used by individuals with auto-immune diseases. It may reduce the time to heal from the common cold. Echinacea is used as a tea or leaves of the plants may be used in the capsule form.

St. John's Wort can help to improve one's mood. The herbal remedy offers an alternative to Prozac. It helps the body in the production of serotonin. St. John's Wort can have side effects and should not be used if one is already taking an anti-depressant. Other medications may also be affected by this plant.

Chamomile can help users to relax. It makes a great tasting tea without caffeine. It is helpful with insomnia, mouth ulcers, anxiety, eczema and gum disease. It can help with problems with the nervous and digestive systems. Chamomile is also thought to have antimicrobial properties. Tinctures offer an option other than the tea that some people prefer to use.

Ginseng offers a natural energy booster without using caffeine. It has been used in China for thousands of years and may help with intellectual performance as well as with memory. Ginseng helps to combat the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. It does cause water retention and may lead to insomnia. Individuals with high blood pressure should not use this herb. It is found in teas, tinctures and as capsules.

Ginkgo is a memory booster that has been used by the Chinese for over 5,000 years. It helps to ease depression and with memory loss. The antioxidant properties of the plant can boost the action of nerves as well as circulation. Some users experience upset stomach or mild headaches. It is a blood thinner so it should not be used with aspirin or before surgery. While the root is often consumed as a tea, drops of its extract can be added to any drink for faster preparation.

Healthy herbs can have positive benefits on the health of the user. However, individuals suffering from certain medical conditions may not be able to tolerate the side effects. With correct usage, you can feel better and have a healthier body.




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