Medicinal uses for herbs

Sometimes using a herbal remedy instead of a pharmaceutical one is a much smarter option. Often herbal remedies provide a safer alternative, especially when the herbs have been used successfully to treat ailments for centuries.

Minor health problems are said to benefit most from herbal remedies, which means you can save the more potent prescription medications for those things that are far more serious.

When it comes to herbal remedies, you might want to talk with your doctor about any herbal remedies you take as some can interfere with your prescription meds.

While ginger, turmeric, garlic, peppermint and chamomile are well-known for their medicinal uses, but what else can you grow and use to relieve ailments?

Calendula

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Long used as a solution to relieve any inflammation in the mouth, throat and stomach, calendula is also a popular herb for relieving rashes and skin irritations as well as healing wounds.

The best way for you to use it would be to pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 teaspoons of calendula petals. Allow it to steep for up to 10 minutes. Strain. Then use it as a tea or simply gargle with it or use it as a mouthwash.

Hibiscus

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Not only are hibiscus pretty to look at, but they have been used to lower blood pressure and can also be used to ease a sore throat or a cold.

Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried hibiscus flowers. Steep for up to 10 minutes, then strain and — if you so choose — sweeten. You can drink up to two cups of hibiscus tea per day.

You’ll want to talk to your health care professional if you have high blood pressure before you start drinking hibiscus tea, just to be on the safe side.

Hops

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If you are having trouble sleeping, or you feel tense or anxious during the daytime, hops could help. It has also been said that a dose of hops could assist you with hot flushes, usually experienced during menopause.

It’s best taken as a capsule (usually around 200-300mg), though you can also use a tincture.

Because hops can cause sedation it is best you speak with your health care professional before using.

Lemon balm

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Another herb with calming properties is lemon balm. It has been said to ease tension, relieve an upset stomach and colic.

You can pour 1 cup of boiling water over five or six fresh leave, or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves and steep for 5 minutes. Strain before drinking and you can also sweeten it if you desire.

Sage

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Another sore throat remedy that is also good for coughs and colds is sage. If you’re suffering from night sweats, this herb is also said to assist.

Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of leaves. Allow to steep for up to 10 minutes. Strain and drink or gargle.

Sage is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant.

Thyme

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Because of the oils it contains, thyme is said to be great for relieving coughs, colds and congestion.

You can pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of fresh or 1 teaspoon of drive leaves and steep for up to 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. You’ll only need about one-third of a cup.

Do you use herbs for more than just cooking? What herbs do you use medicinally and how do you prepare them? Share your tips with us.