Holistic health is very important to us here at BeachCandy Swimwear, and for this Wellness Wednesday, we will be discussing herbal medicine. We will be breaking down some of our favorite herbal remedies for you and providing a beginners guide!
Healing herbs and herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years and are even an important part of some cultures. For many years people have relied on prescription medications, but herbal remedies are on the rise and for many good reasons.
Many herbal remedies are largely more accessible and more affordable for people as many can be found at a local health foods store. Some also prefer using herbal medicine over conventional medicines as they feel it is healthier for their bodies and/or better align with personal beliefs.
However, it is essential to note that the quality of these herbal remedies is very important. All herbs should be organic and ethically grown to ensure the purest impact on your health.
While the list of herbs could be endless, we have rounded up a few of our favorites.
Turmeric Photo by Karl Solano from Pexels
Turmeric
You probably have turmeric sitting in your spice cabinet as it is popular for cooking. Turmeric is used in a lot of Indian dishes, such as curry. However, turmeric has some great benefits when used medicinally.
Most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, it can be used topically or taken as a dietary supplement. Turmeric, in high doses, can also be used to help treat blood pressure.
It is also important to note that studies are also being done on turmeric’s potential to improve heart health and symptoms of depression as well as, cancer and Alzheimer’s prevention.
Turmeric is a very well rounded herbal remedy that you should definitely consider adding to your daily supplement routine.
Ginger Photo by Joris Neyt from Pexels
Ginger
Ginger is another common household ingredient packed with many medicinal health benefits. Ginger can be used for digestion, pain relief, blood sugar levels, heart health, and immune system strengthening.
While ginger has so many different benefits, it is most well known for its ability to soothe stomach problems. It helps calm nausea and reduces gas and bloating by supporting good digestion. It can also help with menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Personally, I love to use ginger to clear my sinuses congestion and help combat any sore throat I may have. Whenever I am struggling with allergies or feel turmeric, are usually the top two ingredients in an immunity shot. The spiciness and warming effect of the ginger root help clear any congestion you may have as well as moving bacteria out of your system.
You can consume ginger in so many different ways, which is another reason it is one of my favorites! Drink as a tea, juice, or add ginger powder to any of our favorite recipes. Ginger can also be consumed raw by peeling back the skin and adding it into anything you would like.
Tip: Try adding ginger into your morning smoothies or even juice it with other fruits and vegetables to kick off your day! You can also add it into soups for an extra kick.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a beautiful shrub like plant with yellow star-like flowers that has been used in European medicine for many years. This herb has been known to aid wound healing and alleviates insomnia, depression, and various kidney and lung diseases.
Today, it is most commonly used to treat symptoms of mild to moderate depression. St. John’s wort can be consumed in teas, pills, and liquid extracts.
Lavender Photo by 光曦 刘 from Pexels
Lavender
This popular plant is well known for its beautiful and fragrant properties. In fact, you probably have a candle or hand lotion with this scent as it is a very popular aromatic. Used to help treat anxiety, stress, migraines, sleep, and blood pressure, this herb is another staple.
Lavender is mainly used as an aromatherapy agent; however, it also has recently been found that lavender carries anti-inflammatory benefits. Dilute lavender oil and apply it as a topical to the skin for anti-inflammatory purposes.
Tip: Use lavender essential oil when feeling stressed or even before bedtime for extra relaxation.
Echinacea
Dating back to Native American practices, echinacea has been known to treat wounds, burns, toothaches, sore throat, and upset stomach. However, today it is usually used to treat the duration of the common cold or flu. It can also help reduce symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and cough.
Echinacea can be applied topically or consumed as a tea or even a supplement. While most of the echinacea plant can be used, the root is believed to be the most powerful plant part by some.
Chamomile Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
Chamomile
Known to be one of the most ancient medicinal herbs, chamomile is truly a staple medicinal plant! Chamomile is mostly consumed in tea form as the chamomile flower is dried and then infused with hot water.
Packed with antioxidants, when consumed, it may lower your risk of several diseases such as cancer. However, chamomile may also help improve sleep quality, digestive health, help control blood sugar, and improve heart health.
Tip: Drink a cup of chamomile tea 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime to promote sleepiness and relaxation.
Ginseng
Frequently used in Chinese medicine, this medicinal plant is usually used in the form of powder, capsules, or tea. When consumed, it is said to reduce inflammation and boost immunity, brain function, and energy levels.
Ginseng is relatively easy to add to your diet as you can also use fresh or steamed ginseng root to add to recipes. In fact, ginseng is used in a lot of Asian style dishes to add a slightly bitter taste.
Tip: Lightly steep the root of the ginseng plant in some hot water for about 5 minutes to make your own ginseng tea.
Disclaimer:
Please note this is a beginner's guide to herbal products, and more research should be done before consuming any of these products. As always, please consult with a medical professional before adding this into your routine, as side effects and allergic reactions may occur. All herbs should be organic and ethically grown to ensure the purest impact on your health.
Wellness Wednesdays
Are you loving our Wellness Wednesdays just as much as we are? Then don't forget to catch up on our latest posts where we talk about Coffee Enemas & Other Holistic Practices as well as the Benefits of Cold Plunges. We can’t wait to share more holistic tips and tricks with you soon!
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Written by Kaleigh Medellin.