5 Herbs for Health and Overall Wellness
Everyday work stresses demand some attention, but no one likes a pill unless a doctor prescribes it. Similarly, you would not pop a pain killer for frequent headaches. Like many out there, if you are skeptical about using allopathic medication for everyday ailments, herbs for health might be your best alternative.
Over the years, people have changed their perception of holistic healing methods. Many people now root for herbs and traditional healing methods to help with various health conditions. Fortunately, most of the medications do not have any adverse effects and work integrally with your system. You can rely on them for your general well-being. Are you still wondering how?
Find, in this article, the miraculous power of herbs for health and what science has to say about it.
1. Cannabis
Many use cannabis for recreational purposes. But, there is undoubtedly more to it. The substance phytocannabinoid, in cannabis, interacts with human body receptors. As a result, it can induce a wide range of homeostatic controls. People now microdose on CBD products to help sleep, mood, appetite, stress, and anxiety. The CBD component also plays an important role in treating nausea and reducing anxiety.
Moreover, scientists have discovered its alternative uses to treat chronic conditions like arthritis. Cannabis is a storehouse of healthy terpenes, minerals, and anti-oxidants. Interestingly, the anti-inflammatory properties in it can help you overcome pain and muscle tension.
How to Use
There are multiple ways to administer cannabis. Some people like the old-school cannabis joint or a roll. You can also find cannabis variants like the cannabis concentrate for vaping and dabbing purposes, the disposable vape pen, or the regular CBD oil, balm, etc.
2. Holy Basil
Holy Basil is an amusing plant as all its parts show adaptogenic properties. If you suffer from any physical or mental stresses, you may use Holy Basil to promote balance. In most cases, the best part is that people report immediate relief and provide a holistic approach to healing. It is, therefore, an integral part of household remedies in many south Asian countries, where they refer to it as ‘queen of herbs.’ Even scientific research indicates that holy basil has some fabulous pharmacological properties to help you cope with common ailments like cough, cold, nausea, and vomiting.
Apart from relieving stomach troubles, you can use it to detoxify the body. It is often considered a holy grail solution for the body and mind. Many travelers keep its essential oil in their travel kit to soothe the skin in case of an insect bite. Moreover, the nutritional profile of the herb makes it a perfect supplement for everyday use. The plant contains vitamin A and C, calcium, zinc, iron, and chlorophyll.
How to Use
You can make a tonic from holy basil leaves and seeds or simply add its leaves to your salad and soups. Remember, it is not a first-line treatment, so consult an expert before using it.
3. Elderberry
Traditionally, people used the flowers and leaves of the elderberry plant to deal with pain, inflammation. It was a common medication for healing stomach problems and stimulating the production of urine and sweat. The bark of the plant is valued as a diuretic and laxative often used to induce vomiting. As for the fruit, elderberries have antioxidants.
It has multiple nutritional benefits as it can quickly fulfill significant portion of your vitamin C daily requirement. Folk medicine describes elderberry as a magical herb as its dried fruits would heal infections and alleviate neural pain. Various scientific studies suggest its use in healing respiratory disorders. Elderberries are a fantastic source of dietary fibers and have potent oxidants that could relieve oxidative stress. Eating elderberries can supply your body with unique flavonoids that can keep you young and active.
How to Use
You can cook, make juice, or jam with its fruit. Some people also love tea made from its flowers. However, too much elderberry can upset your stomach. Make sure to regulate your dosage or ask an expert.
4. Lavender
Another powerful herb that can be healthy for your mind and body is lavender. Lavender has unique and sweet aromatic scents that can coherently work to reduce your mental and physical stresses. A warm massage with lavender oil encourages deep relaxation. It can also induce sleep in people who face sleeping troubles. An aromatherapy session with lavender oil can help heal depression and body aches. The aromatic healing properties in lavender can help people with dementia and memory issues. More commonly, lavender concoctions can relieve headaches and tooth troubles.
How to Use
A cup of lavender infusion before bed can help you relax deeply. You can also add lavender leaves to your desserts for a sweet aromatic flavor.
5. Chamomile
Chamomile flowers resemble small daisies. Also, it is another aromatic plant that can provide you anti-anxiety properties. You must have seen several chamomile tea infusions on the market. The calming powers of chamomile are often a topic of interest among researchers.
A research study states chamomile to be an effective treatment for managing generalized anxiety disorder. Chamomile is usually safe for long-term use. Recent research shows that chamomile is more than an anxiety reliever. In fact, it can be used for potential anticancer treatment.
The Bottom Line
Like any other treatment, the results of herbal medication would largely depend on personal body chemistry. In contrast, people tend to self-medicate while considering herbs. However, it’s best to seek an expert opinion. A customized herbal self-care routine can evoke robust health and be a game-changer for your well-being.