The Herbal Medicine Cabinet

No book on herbs would be complete without looking at some of the herbal remedies which are being used today.  Many people are finding traditional medicines less favorable to the herbal remedies being offered.  There are fewer allergic reactions.  Herbal medicines have fewer, if any, side affects.  There are even some doctors who are prescribing herbal remedies when other medications just are not working.

 

There is a strong warning which goes with this information.  This information is for general reading and knowledge only.  This is in no way presented as medical fact.  Under no circumstances should any person add any of the herbal remedies described in this chapter into their diet without first consulting their physician.  Women who are pregnant or nursing and small children should never use any type of herbal remedies unless specifically prescribed by their doctor.

 

There are all types of old wives tales about herbs that cured coughs and colds.  Some people will talk about Grandma's tonic that cured what ailed them.  These are the herbal remedies that many people still use today.  Things like jewel weed to help relieve poison ivy or rose hips to add vitamin C are simple remedies that have been used for years.

 

There are many herbs which have some powerful healing properties.  These herbs can help with allergies, rashes, and other ailments.  Some of the herbs you find growing in the ditches and even in your own back yard can be useful for treating common problems like coughs, bee stings, and sore muscles.

There is always the possibility of an allergic reaction to any form of medication, whether prescribed, over the counter, or even natural herbs.  This is why it is always important to speak with a medical professional before you decide to try any type of self medication with natural herbs.  Just as some people are allergic to things like milk and strawberries, someone could be just as allergic to valerian or burdock.

 

In defense of the natural herb remedies, some of them seem to work better than the prescribed medications.  Clove oil can relieve a toothache as well as any gel you can buy.  Chamomile tea works wonders as a sleep aid.  Peppermint can help with heart burn better than some anti-acids.  When you start researching herbal remedies you may be surprised what these little weeds can do for your health. 

 

Here are common herbs and what illnesses they can help. 

Allspice	Mouthwash, pain relief
Anise	Seeds boiled and added to honey to relieve cough
Basil (pregnant women avoid)	Tea for migraines.  Douche for yeast infection.
Caraway	Relieves menstrual cramps, promotes menstruation
Cayenne Pepper	Relieves arthritis pain (can drop your sugar level)
Celery	Sedative, hypertension, kidneys
Chicory	Dissolves gallstones, cleans the liver
Cilantro	Prevents food poisoning
Clove	Toothaches, helps curb alcoholism
Dill	Insomnia
Fennel	Bad Breath
Garlic	Antibiotic
Ginger	Thins the blood
Horseradish	Chest congestion, sore muscles
Licorice	Balances the nervous system (long term use hurts liver)
Oregano	Fever reducer
Mint	Heartburn, stomach aches
Mustard	Sprains
Nutmeg	Indigestion
Parsley	Bad Breath
Pepper	Fever Reducer, toothaches
Rosemary	Anti-oxidant
Sage	Insect bites, stings
Tarragon	Insomnia, depression
Thyme	Antibiotic
Tumeric	Anti-oxidant

 

Although these herbs are listed as helping with the ailments, any use should first be analyzed by your physician.