Medicinal Herbs and what they are good for

So.. I thought in addition to my super foods posts, I would give a quick overview on the herbs that I keep on hand regularly and explain why. Also.. as with anything please do your own research on any herb before taking it.. and use extreme caution taking herbs during pregnancy or nursing. Most herbs should not be taken as a precautionary in either of these two cases (unless prescribed by your midwife.. or the lactation herbs)

Echinacea:

Echinacea is herbal medicine’s first choice of treatment for colds. Stimulating the immune system, the herbs can also be used to treat chronic yeast infections in women and to prevent urinary tract infections in both sexes. Administered in times of need, this helpful ally can assist the body’s immune system in treating a wide range of disorders. There has been some doubt over the ability of the body to absorb the medicinally active ingredients orally (intravenous injections being considered the only effective way to administer the plant), but recent research has demonstrated significant absorption from orally administered applications. The roots and the whole plant are considered particularly beneficial in the treatment of sores, wounds, burns etc, possessing cortisone-like and antibacterial activity.

Wild Cherry Bark:

Is considered an  antibacterial, anticonstrictive (in the bronchial tubes), antihepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, fungicide, lowering blood pressure, lowering blood sugars, relaxing the muscles, “sedating” the uterus. The bark is also about 1/2% hydrogen cyanide, just enough to stop coughing and to relax the bronchial tubes without having any other physiological effects. NOT TO BE TAKEN WHEN PREGNANT OR NURSING ( I have read about ill effects of taking it during both times in life.. harmful to the fetus/infant)

Valerian Root:

Valerian is a calmative and tranquilizer. Use for the treatment of headaches, insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, menstrual problems, nervous stomach, and hysteria. Clinical trials have confirmed the use of valerian for treating insomnia, especially the insomnia that accompanies menopause. The advantage of valerian over tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax is that it reduces sleep latency, the time required to fall asleep, without a period of bedtime drowsiness and without creating a “hangover” or grogginess the next morning. Valerian has greatest effect in treating chronic insomnia, rather than short-term sleeplessness. It also soothes the digestive system and may prevent cramping caused by irritable bowel syndrome. ** Not to be used then stopped immediately.. should be weened off of slowly

White Willow:

The analgesic action of willow bark depends on symbiotic or “friendly” intestinal bacteria to digest is components into painkilling forms. Aspirin does not require digestion by intestinal bacteria, and works more quickly. Willow bark, on the other hand, continues to provide pain relief longer than aspirin. Unlike aspirin, the salicylates in willow bark do not increase the risk of bleeding. They do not usually irritate the lining of the stomach. For these reasons, willow bark may be useful for people who have chronic joint pain but cannot take NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors

Fenugreek:

Fenugreek seeds taken daily significantly lower blood sugars. It is also a traditional remedy for furuncles, boils, and eczema. Also used to promote milk production in lactating women.

Blessed Thistle:

Blessed Thistle is used to treat digestive ailments caused by insufficient secretion of stomach acid. The herb’s bitter taste triggers a reflex reaction that releases gastric juices into the stomach, especially those needed to digest fats. For this reason, modern herbalists agree that the plant is helpful for loss of appetite, upset stomach, and gas, although it may be better to take the herb before these symptoms occur (such as before eating a fatty meal), rather than after. The herb is also antibacterial.. and taken to increase milk production in lactating women.

Fennel:

Fennel seed is antiseptic and secretolytic, that is, encouraging secretion of saliva and gastric juices. It also stops stomach cramps. Fennel seed teas break up congestion caused by colds and allergies. There are preliminary studies that suggest that regular consumption of fennel (as well as regular consumption of green beans, mushrooms, oranges, prunes, and celeriac) might slow the progression of osteoporosis. Powdering makes fennel a less estrogenic herb, that is, less likely to stimulate the production of estrogen in women, a characteristic that may be desirable or undesirable depending on the user. Also used to promote milk production in lactating women.

Holy Basil:

Holy Basil, or Tulsi has been used for thousands of years as a prime herb in ayurvedic treatment. Holy Basil is used for common colds, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning, and malaria. Holy Basil is considered an adaptogen, which means that it assists the body adapt to stress (environmental, physical, or chemical), restore balance in the body, and normalize body functions. **Not recommended for use if pregnant, nursing, or are considering becoming pregnant (may have an anti-fertility effect).

Stinging Nettle:

Used to treat arthritis, hay fever, and kidney problems. Nettle is used in shampoo to control dandruff and is said to make hair more glossy, which is why some farmers include a handful of nettles with cattle feed. Nettle tea compress or finely powdered dried nettles are also good for wounds, cuts, stings, and burns. The infusion was also used internally to stop excessive menstruation, bleeding from hemorrhages, bloody coughs, nose bleeds, and bloody urine. It helps blood clot, but major bleeding is dangerousóindicative of a serious underlying condition. Eating nettles or drinking the tea makes your hair brighter, thicker and shinier, and makes your skin clearer and healthier. It is also good for eczema and other skin conditions.

Burdock Root:

Burdock root tea is a powerful anti-inflammatory remedy. Its numerous antioxidants protect the liver from toxic chemicals, allowing it to process the body’s naturally occurring steroids which are helpful in achieving hormonal balance. A mildly bitter herb, it stimulates the release of gastric juices and aids digestion. This combination of qualities explains its traditional use in treating acne, eczema, endometriosis, psoriasis, and uterine fibroids.

Milk Thistle:

Used to cleanse and support liver function.  Helps to lower cholesterol. Also used to reduce the effects of cancer cells in breast, cervical, and prostate cancer.

 Chamomile:

The main use for chamomile is to aid in sleep and calm the nerves.  Chamomile stops spasms in the smooth muscles lining the stomach and intestines, and contains chemicals that are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic.

 Calendula flowers:

Calendula creams and washes are still used to disinfect minor wounds and to treat infections of the skin. The antibacterial and immuno-stimulant properties of the plant make it extremely useful in treating slow-healing cuts and cuts in people who have compromised immune systems. The herb stimulates the production of collagen at wound sites and minimizes scarring. Gargling calendula water may ease sore throat. The herb will not reduce swelling, but it will reduce pain.

Rose Petals (red usually):

Rose petals have sedative, antiseptic, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, laxative, cholesterol-lowering, and heart-supportive properties.

Lavender flower heads :

Lavender has been thought for centuries to enflame passions as an aphrodisiac, and is still one of the most recognized scents in the world. lavender treats insomnia, nervous stomach, anxiety, flatulence, colic, and depressive headache.

Raspberry Leaves:

Raspberry leaf tea has been used for centuries as a folk medicine to treat canker sores, cold sores, and gingivitis in persons of all ages and anemia, leg cramps, diarrhea, and morning sickness in pregnant women, and as a uterine relaxant. . The study published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health in 2001 found that women who drank raspberry leaf tea had shorter labor, and fewer of their babies were delivered by forceps. The other study, published in the Australian College of Midwives Journal, cited in The Natural Pharmacist as saying there was “no” benefit to the herb for pregnant women, actually stated: “The findings also suggest ingestion of the drug might decrease the likelihood of pre and post-term gestation. An unexpected finding in this study seems to indicate that women who ingest raspberry leaf might be less likely to receive an artificial rupture of their membranes, or require a caesarean section, forceps or vacuum birth than the women in the control group.” In other words, scientific studies show that drinking raspberry tea actually is beneficial during pregnancy.

Alfalfa dried:

 Alfalfa is one of the best natural sources of vitamin K. This nutrient helps blood to clot by moving calcium into proteins that form a microscopic net to capture red blood cells. Vitamin K likewise helps bones to knit by working with vitamin D and glutamic acid to activate osteocalcin. The combination of these three nutrients is essential to building good bone. Your body can not use calcium without it. Alfalfa not only helps keep calcium in bones, it helps keep calcium out of the linings of arteries. vitamin K makes sure calcium moves into bones, the best information from current science is that it keeps calcium out of arterial clogs. Alfalfa is used with homeopathic remedy Lactuca Virosa to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding mothers. It can also be used with blessed thistle, fenugreek, and/or marshmallow for this purpose.

Cramp Bark:

Cramp bark, as its name suggests, is used to treat cramps and spasms of all types. The bark is antispasmodic, astringent, and sedative, especially in the uterus. As a muscle relaxant it also relaxes the intestines, and skeletal muscles. Cramp bark has been traditionally used by Native American and pioneer women to relieve menstrual cramps and spasms after childbirth and to prevent miscarriage. The herb is also popularly used in combinations to treat asthma and nervous tension.

Passionflower:

Herbalists in Mexico, Central America, and Texas have used passionflower as a calmative and sleeping aid for over 200 years. Relieving muscle tension, the herb lowers blood pressure and calms anxiety. Passionflower is also a source of chrysin, a chemical that helps the body release testosterone. Chrysin stimulates the production of testosterone, and may aggravate conditions caused by excessive testosterone (baldness and prostate problems in men, unusual aggression, hair growth, and skin problems in men and women) so this should be evaluated before consuming too much Passionflower. ** Pregnant women should avoid passionflower, since it can stimulate uterine contractions.

Plantain leaf:

 Many of its active constituents show antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, as well as being anti-inflammatory and antitoxic. The leaves, shredded or chewed, are a traditional treatment for insect and animal bites and the antibacterial action helps prevent infection and the anti-inflammatory helps to relieve pain, burning, and itching. There is some investigation ongoing to study its affects on lowering blood sugar.

Rosemary:

Rosemary has been used to treat arthritis, baldness, headaches, stomach upset, pains, strains, cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Contemporary scientific research suggests that rosemary may be useful for: Alzheimer’s disease and Circulatory problems. Eczema- increased circulation in the skin after application of rosemary may carry away inflammatory chemicals. Indigestion. And Rosemary can help prevent abdominal cramps. Irritable bowel syndrome- Rosemary relieves intestinal cramps and spasms by stimulating the release of bile that helps digest fat. It also relieves bloating and gas. Menstrual cramps- antioxidant compounds in rosemary prevent uterine spasms. Yeast infection- Rosemary is not fungicidal but also diuretic. It stops growth of yeast and helps remove yeast cells from the lining of the urinary tract.

Sage:

 Sage can be used to flavor and preserve nearly any meat or cheese. Medicinally, it has been shown by modern research to prevent blood clots from forming, and has a long tradition of healing and treating digestive ills.

Mint :

 Peppermint is helpful in assiting people with general indigestion and non-ulcer dyspepsia and makes for a soothing and warming after dinner tea. The essential oil of peppermint can be applied to the skin or mouth to relieve pain. The essential oil in peppermint teas relieves the pain associated with colitis and colic.

Essential Oils:

Lavender:

Used to treat: Acne, allergies, amenorrhea, asthma, athletes foot, bruises, burns, colic, conjunctivitis, cystitis, dandruff, depression, dermatitis, earache, eczema, flatulence, halitosis, headache, hypertension, indigestion, infection, inflammations, insect bites and stings, insomnia, laryngitis, leucorrhea, migraine, nausea, nervous tension, neuralgia, psoriasis, rashes, rheumatism, scars, slow digestion, sore muscles, sprains, stress, sunburn, teething, toothache, ulcers, wound. Lavender oil is a good addition to most skin care products. For bug bites and burns the oil is generally safe to apply neat to the affected area. A skin patch test should be performed before using any essential oil directly on the skin.

Tea Tree :

Tea tree oil is used for anything from bug bites to sunburns. Commonly treats:  Abscess, acne, asthma, blisters, bronchitis, burns, candida, catarrh, chicken pox, cold sores, colds, coughs, cystitis, dandruff, ear and nose infections, fever, flu, fungal infections, herpes, immune system deficiencies, infectious illnesses, insect bites, oily skin, respiratory problems, sinusitis, skin rashes, sunburn, thrush, tooth and gum infections, vaginal infections, viral infections, warts, whooping cough, wounds. Tea tree makes a great addition to most skin care products. A simple way to use it is adding the oil to aloe vera gel.

Cedar (mainly for my hubby):

 The oil has been used for bronchial and urinary tract infections. Cedarwood also has a long history as an incense and perfume. Primarily treats: Acne, air purifier, anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, cellulite, coughs, dandruff, dry skin, fungal infections, immune stimulant, insect repellant, nervous tension, rashes, rheumatism, ulcers. Cedarwood is a good addition to a hair tonic, and gives the aroma a long lasting undertone

Lemongrass:

The oil is widely used as an addition to bug repellant. Treats:  Acne, athletes foot, cellulite, colitis, digestion, excessive sweat, fevers, headaches, infectious disease, insect repellant, muscular pain, nervous exhaustion, poor circulation, scabies, stress. If you prefer the aroma of lemongrass, it is a good substitute for citronella in a bug repellent.

Clary Sage:

Treats: Acne, amenorrhea, boils, constipation, convulsions, cramps, dandruff, depression, dysmenorrhoea, dyspepsia, excessive perspiration, flatulence, infection, inflamed skin, leucorrhoea, migraine, muscular aches and pains, nervous fatigue, oily skin and hair. Clary sage is a good addition to a bath for many reasons. The antispasmodic actions may help with headaches and migraines. This action along with the emmenagogue property support the reproductive system and may relieve painful menstruation, and the nervine and sedative actions will help you relax after a busy day.

Rosemary:

Treats:  Acne, amenorrhea, arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, colds, colitis, constipation, coughs, dandruff, dermatitis, diarrhea, dysmenorrhea, eczema, fainting, flatulence, flu, fluid retention, greasy hair, hangovers, headache, hysteria, insect repellant, jaundice, leucorrhea, lice, memory loss, mental fatigue, migraine, muscle aches and pains, nervous disorders, neuralgia, rheumatism, scabies, sinus problems, slow circulation, sore muscles, tonic, varicose veins, whooping cough, wounds. Rosemary oil has many applications. Diffusing the oil into the air will aid memory and disinfect the room. Using the oil in a massage oil may help with nasal congestion and sore muscles.

Basil:

Treats:  flatulence, fatigue, infection, insect bites and repellant, sinus infection, whooping cough. Basil can be added to a hair tonic to help stimulate growth.

Geranium:

Treats: Acne, anxiety, broken capillaries, bruises, burns, circulatory disorders, cuts, cystitis, depression, dermatitis, diabetes, diarrhea, eczema, fluid retention, hemorrhoids, herpes, insect bites, lymphatic congestion, menopause, neuralgia, ringworm, shingles, sore throats, stabilize emotions, tonsillitis, ulcers, wounds. The antidepressant and emotional stabilizing effects of this oil can be used in many ways. Diffuse into the air, or make a room spray that you can spray as needed. You can also add the oil to a full, hand, or foot bath.

Peppermint

Treats:  Acne, asthma, bronchitis, cholera, colds, cough, cramps, dermatitis, diarrhea, exhaustion, fainting, fever, flatulence, flu, gaseous indigestion and irritated colon, halitosis, headache, hysteria, indigestion, insect bites, kidney stones and gallstones, mental fatigue, migraine, motion sickness, mouth or gum infections, muscular pain, nausea, nerve pain, nervous disorders, neuralgia, palpitations, poor circulation, respiratory disorders, sinusitis, toothache, travel sickness, vertigo, vomiting. DIffusing peppermint into the air may help with many ailments, from headaches to an upset stomach.

Eucalyptus:

Treats:  Asthma, blisters, bronchitis, bruises, burns, candida, catarrh, chills, colds, cough, cystitis, fever, headache, influenza, insect bites, lack of concentration, measles, mental exhaustion, muscular aches and pains, neuralgia, respiratory infection, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin infections, skin ulcers, slow circulation, sore throats, sprains, throat infections, viral infections, wounds. Eucalyptus is often added to inhalations, oils, and ointments for respiratory infections and congestion. The properties that help with these ailments include antispasmodic, expectorant, decongestant, and antiviral. The antiviral and antibacterial actions of this oil can be taken advantage of by adding it to a disinfectant blend for a diffuser to cleanse the air.

Other Misc to have on hand:

Ginger root ( either powder,fresh or dried)

Scientists have found evidence to support ginger’s wide range of medicinal actions. These actions include the lowering of cholesterol levels, relief for allergies and asthma, arthritis, colds, and nausea; and protecting the digestive tract and liver against toxins and parasites. Ginger contains a chemical called zingibain that dissolves parasites and their eggs. This antiparasitic effect is put to use preparing sushi. Sushi is traditionally eaten with pickled ginger, and ginger extract have been shown to kill the anisakid worm, a parasite sometimes carried in raw fish, within sixteen hours. In addition, ginger tea effectively treats schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease increasingly prevalent among tourists returning to North America, Australia, and Europe from lesser developed areas of the tropics. Ginger can protect the lining of the stomach from alcohol damage, which aggravate existing ulcers and promote the development of new ones. Ginger is especially useful in small doses in pregnancy. Some babies are born breech, that is, feet first instead of hear first. Chinese researcher report that simply applying a ginger paste to a specific acupuncture point results in a 77-percent correction of breech births, compared to a 52 percent correction in women in the control group who had their babies turned manually. Ginger is also an age-old remedy for morning sickness. When used in herbal formulas, ginger protects the body from carcinogenic effects of valproic acid (Depakote), a medication commonly prescribed for migraine and seizure disorders.

Garlic ( either cloves or minced) Powdered if you don’t eat it often

The traditional use of garlic in herbal medicine has been to kill parasites. It is used by itself for hookworms and pinworms, and in combination with other herbs for other kinds of parasitic infections. Garlic is also antibacterial, antifungal, and cholesterol-lowering. Garlic has a very long folk history of use in a wide range of ailments, particularly ailments such as ringworm, Candida, vaginitis colds, flus, and bronchitis, where its fungicidal, antiseptic, tonic and parasiticidal properties have proved of benefit. The plant produces inhibitory effects on gram-negative germs of the typhoid-paratyphoid-enteritis group, indeed it possesses outstanding germicidal properties and can keep amoebic dysentery at bay. It is also said to have anticancer activity. It has also been shown that garlic aids detoxification of chronic lead poisoning. Daily use of garlic in the diet has been shown to have a very beneficial effect on the body, especially the blood system and the heart. For example, demographic studies suggest that garlic is responsible for the low incidence of arteriosclerosis in areas of Italy and Spain where consumption of the bulb is heavy. Recent research has also indicated that garlic reduces glucose metabolism in diabetics, slows the development of arteriosclerosis and lowers the risk of further heart attacks in myocardial infarct patients. Externally, the expressed juice is an excellent antiseptic for treating wounds.

Flax Seeds

Flaxseed is a basic anti-inflammatory used to relieve pain and tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, lupus, osteoporosis, irritable colon, diverticulitis, gastritis, enteritis, breast cancer, chronic constipation, and colon damage caused by laxative abuse. It also lowers cholesterol levels and may protect against atherosclerosis. Flaxseed can also be used as a poultice to draw blood to the surface to remove deep-seated inflammation, or as a moist warm compress to relieve pain or inflammation. The essential oils in flaxseed help promote brain health in newborns and unborn children.

Lemongrass (either fresh or dried)

As a medicinal herb, lemon grass is mildly diuretic and a stimulant tonic. The herb promotes digestion of fats, and in Ayurvedic medicine a preparation of lemon grass with pepper has been used for relief of menstrual troubles and nausea. The herb stimulates perspiration, cooling the body in summer and lowering fevers any time of year. Lemon grass is well known a mild insect repellent (citronella) and the essential oil is used in perfumery. A study in 1988 found significant antimicrobial activity in fighting several human pathogens such as E.coli and staphylococcus aureus. It has also been used externally for treatment of lice, ringworm, and scabies.