What Are Herbal Remedies?
Herbal remedies involve the use of plants and plant-based substances to maintain or improve health. From dried leaves and roots to tinctures and teas, herbal remedies come in many forms and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You’ll often see common herbs like chamomile for relaxation, ginger for digestion, and peppermint for headaches, which can be consumed as teas, used in cooking, or applied topically.
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5 Easy Herbal Remedies to Try
Here are five beginner-friendly ways to start using herbal remedies for common wellness concerns:
Ginger Tea for Digestion
If you experience nausea, bloating, or an upset stomach, ginger is your best friend. This warming herb supports digestion and eases discomfort.
How to Make:
- Peel and slice 1–2 inches of fresh ginger root.
- Simmer in 2 cups of water for 10–15 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and honey for extra flavor and immune support.
Pro Tip: Keep dried ginger powder on hand for quick remedies—simply mix a pinch into hot water for an instant fix.
Lavender Pillow Spray for Relaxation
Ingredients: Distilled water, witch hazel, lavender essential oil.
How to Make:
- 1/2 cup of distilled water with 1 tablespoon of witch hazel.
- Add 10–15 drops of lavender essential oil, pour into a small spray bottle, and shake well.
Spritz it on your pillow before bed to promote relaxation and better sleep.
Turmeric Milk for Inflammation
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb with numerous health benefits. Turmeric milk (a.k.a. golden milk) is an easy and delicious way to incorporate it into your daily routine:
How to make:
- Warm 1 cup of milk (plant-based works, too).
- Stir in ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric, a pinch of black pepper (to boost absorption), and a drizzle of honey.
Enjoy as a cozy drink before bed to help support your immune system, and it’s great for joint health too.
Calendula Salve for Soothing Skin
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is well-known for its skin-healing properties. It contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, making it perfect for soothing dry, irritated, or sensitive skin. This versatile salve is great for minor cuts, scrapes, rashes, or even eczema.
Ingredients: Dried calendula flowers, olive oil, beeswax.
How to Make:
- Infuse olive oil with dried calendula flowers by placing them in a jar and leaving them in a warm, sunny spot for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the oil, then melt 1 tablespoon of beeswax and mix it with 1/4 cup of the infused oil.
- Pour into a small tin and let it solidify. Use on dry or irritated skin.
Spritz it on your pillow before bed to promote relaxation and better sleep.
Peppermint Headache Balm
Ingredients: Peppermint essential oil, coconut oil, beeswax pellets.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of beeswax pellets together.
- Once melted, remove from heat and add 10–12 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Pour into a small container and let it solidify.
Apply to temples and the back of your neck for quick headache relief.
How to Source Your Herbs
Quality matters when it comes to herbal remedies. Here are some tips for sourcing your herbs:
- Buy Organic
- Look for organic herbs to avoid harmful pesticides and chemicals.
- Look for organic herbs to avoid harmful pesticides and chemicals.
- Grow your own
- If you have space, start a small herb garden with easy-to-grow options like basil, mint, and chamomile.
- If you have space, start a small herb garden with easy-to-grow options like basil, mint, and chamomile.
- Check Reputable Sources
- Online shops like Mountain Rose Herbs or your local health food store are great options for dried herbs and essential oils.
Tips for Safely Using Herbal Remedies
While herbal remedies are natural, they’re not risk-free. Follow these safety tips:
- Start Slowly
- Introduce one herb at a time to monitor how your body reacts.
- Introduce one herb at a time to monitor how your body reacts.
- Check for Interactions
- If you’re taking medication, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no conflicts.
- If you’re taking medication, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no conflicts.
- Use in Moderation
- More isn’t always better—stick to recommended amounts.
- More isn’t always better—stick to recommended amounts.
- Know Your Source
- Ensure your herbs come from a reliable and trusted supplier.
Incorporating Herbs into Your Wellness Routine
Using herbal remedies doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by incorporating one or two into your daily routine. For instance, replace your evening coffee with chamomile tea or use lavender oil before bedtime. Over time, these small changes can add up to big improvements in your health and well-being.
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