Healthy Herbs For Your Body

By Kate McMahon


Centuries before people went to see a doctor or fill a prescription for medication at a pharmacy, they turned to healthy herbs to ensure physical and emotional health. These plant based remedies help to strengthen the immune system as well as relieve pain. They are often dried in order to preserve them for use out of season; however, the process can cause them to lose some of their benefits.

While herbal remedies have a long history and are considered all natural, they also cause side effects. If taking other medication, you should speak with your doctor about potential drug interactions. In addition, pregnant or nursing mothers should speak with their physician about any possible problems the medication could cause the baby before using them for a supplement.

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 is offers help with depression and other mood disorders. It is an herbal alternative to Prozac. It can help to increase serotonin production in the body. The herb does have side effects and should not be combined with other anti-depressants. Other prescription medication is affected by the herb.

Chamomile is a relaxing herb. It is a good option for a caffeine free tea. Users find relief from insomnia, eczema, mouth ulcers anxiety and gum disease. It can improve the function of the digestive and nervous system and is thought to offer antimicrobial properties to the user. A tincture offers an option that can be added to a drink if one does not enjoy the tea.

Ginseng is a natural energy booster that does not use caffeine. It has been used for thousands of years in China. It may help with memory and intellectual performance. Ginseng is helpful for individual suffering chronic fatigue syndrome, but can cause retention of water along with insomnia. It should not be used if one suffers from hypertension. It can be consumed in capsule form, as a tea or as a tincture.

Ginkgo can help to boost one's memory. It is recorded as being used first in China more than 5,000 years ago. The herb offers antioxidant help and improves nerve action as well as circulation. Side effects include mild headaches and upset stomach. The herb does cause thinning of the blood, so it should not be used in conjunction with aspirin or within the weeks before surgery. The root of the plant is brewed into a tea, but extracts are also available for individuals who prefer the ability to simply add the herb to other beverages they enjoy without waiting for it to brew.

Healthy herbs offer many positive benefits for the human body. However, certain medical conditions make the side effects undesirable. When used correctly, you may feel better, and your body better prepared to fight against disease.




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