Ten Herbs That Heal

Wild and cultivated plants (herbs) have been a traditional source of medicine for thousands of years. Many of these herbs are also used to flavor foods, while providing a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Ten common herbs include rosemary, aloe vera, cayenne pepper, chamomile, echinacea, garlic, ginger, parsley, St. John's wort and valerian root. These widely available herbs are used to heal a variety of ailments.

Aloe Vera

• Aloe vera is a succulent plant that contains a gel that assists in the healing of wounds, sunburn and other skin problems. Aloe vera also serves as a strong laxative when taken internally. Aloe vera can be purchased in juice form, as well as in a variety of products, including moisturizers, facial tissues and creams that help wounds and burns. Use aloe vera if you are suffering from wounds or other skin problems, digestive issues or even genital herpes or psoriasis. This plant can be grown on a windowsill or in a garden (in a tropical climate).

Cayenne

• Cayenne is a spicy herb that helps with circulation and metabolism. It also works with other herbs in the healing process. Cayenne, which comes from the pod of a red-hot chili pepper, is ground into a powdered form that can be used in food or tea. It is also found in pill form. Cayenne is full of vitamin A and also contains vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin C and potassium.

Chamomile

• Chamomile is a plant that resembles a daisy. It is notorious for having a relaxing effect on the human body, as well as for assisting the digestive system. Many people find that chamomile tea soothes upset stomachs and helps them to sleep. It also soothes skin problems when administered in creams or lotions.

Echinacea

• Echinacea is a purple flower that resembles a daisy. Available in liquid supplements, tea, tinctures, tablets and capsules, it is used to strengthen the immune system to help fight off colds or other sicknesses. Echinacea should be used for a maximum of two weeks when fighting or dealing with a cold or virus. It should not be taken habitually.

Garlic

• Garlic is most commonly used in the kitchen to season food. However, it is also used to fight infections, colds and flu-like symptoms because of its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Garlic also helps prevent heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and possibly cancer. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels for people dealing with diabetes. As a supplement, garlic can be taken in pill or capsule form.

Ginger

• Ginger comes from the plant, zingiber officinale. It can be used to season food or brewed into a tea or taken in capsule form for medicinal purposes. Ginger is used to improve circulation and treat arthritis, heart disease, anxiety and nausea.

Parsley

• Parsley has been cultivated as an herb, spice and vegetable for more than 2,000 years. The herb, which has origins in the Mediterranean region, is rich in potassium and folic acid, as well as vitamins A and C. It improves digestion and strengthens the kidneys. Parsley can also be crushed and rubbed on the skin to reduce the itching of mosquito bites.

Rosemary

• Rosemary is a perennial herb with fragrant, needle-like leaves. A common culinary herb, it is used to season many different foods. Rosemary is high in iron, calcium and vitamin B. Used medicinally, rosemary improves circulation and memory and is also used to treat neuralgia, muscle spasms, wounds, eczema, sciatica, rheumatism, depression and parasites. It is available in capsules, tinctures, oils and infusions.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's wort is a yellow, flowering perennial herb that is notorious for helping people cope with depression and anxiety. The herb is available in pills, tinctures, capsules or oils.

Valerian Root

• Valerian root is a perennial flowering plant that features scented pink and white flowers that were used as a perfume in the sixteenth century. Valerian root helps people suffering from sleeping disorders, restlessness and anxiety. It can also assist in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.