Healthy Herbs For Better Health


by Kate McMahon


Long before individuals went to doctors and pharmacies for the medication needed to keep them feeling well, they turned to healthy herbs. These herbal remedies helped to strengthen the immune system and relieve pain. They were often dried so they could be preserved for use when out of season; however, this does cause some loss of the healthy benefits the plants have to offer.

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 stimulates the activity of the immune system. First used by Native Americans, this medication helps in the production of lymphocytes that destroy foreign bacteria as well as viruses. Some evidence has suggested the herb should be avoided by those with autoimmune diseases. The plant is helpful in reducing the time of healing from a cold. It can be used as a tea or leaves may be swallowed in a capsule.

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 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 offers a natural energy booster without using caffeine. It has been used in China for thousands of years and may help with intellectual performance as well as with memory. Ginseng helps to combat the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. It does cause water retention and may lead to insomnia. Individuals with high blood pressure should not use this herb. It is found in teas, tinctures and as capsules.

Ginkgo is a memory booster that has been used by the Chinese for over 5,000 years. It helps to ease depression and with memory loss. The antioxidant properties of the plant can boost the action of nerves as well as circulation. Some users experience upset stomach or mild headaches. It is a blood thinner so it should not be used with aspirin or before surgery. While the root is often consumed as a tea, drops of its extract can be added to any drink for faster preparation.

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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