Healthy Herbs For Better Health

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.

Even though herbal remedies have been used for centuries and they are all natural, they can cause side effects. This means it is essential to talk with your doctor about potential side effects, especially if taking other medication. In addition, pregnant or nursing women should talk with their obstetrician or pediatrician about possible effects on the baby before beginning to use them as a supplement.

Echinacea is an herb used in improving immune system function. Discovered by Native Americans, the plant helps the body to produce lymphocytes to destroy pathogens. However, according to some clinical evidence, individuals with autoimmune diseases should avoid this herb. It can help to reduce the time the body needs to recover from a cold when used as a tea or taken in 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 is an herb that helps one to relax. It is a good option for tea before bedtime. It helps to relieve insomnia as well as with disorders in the nervous system or the digestive tract. Tinctures are an alternative for those who do not enjoy using the herb as a tea. It is also thought to offer antimicrobial properties that may be beneficial to the user.

Ginseng can help to boost one's energy. This ancient Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years. It may also help to stimulate intellectual performance. Individuals who suffer chronic fatigue syndrome may find ginseng useful. However it can also cause insomnia and water retention. Individuals suffering from hypertension should not use ginseng. Ginseng is used as a tea, tincture or in the capsule form.

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 can provide many positive effects for one's body. However, there are certain medical conditions where the effects of these materials are not desirable. With proper use, the health benefits can help you to feel better may help the body to fight disease.




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