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Herbs have long been an acceptable way to fight common
ailments and while they should not take the place of medical
advice, can be a great supplement to your current medical
care. There are many common herbs that have healing
properties which you may not even know about.
Some of the herbs like garlic, parsley, rosemary and cayenne
you may associate more with cooking, but these plants also
have medicinal properties that you can easily put to use by
using them in teas, compresses and even as spices in your
meals!
Some common healing herbs include:
Aloe Vera
The gel within this plant is reputed to heal wounds and
other skin problems such as sunburn. It is also a strong
laxative. The plant can be grown in your garden in tropical
climates or on your window sill. Slit open the leaves and
use the juice inside.
Cayenne
Cayenne is great for the circulation and it’s no wonder with
it's spicy bite! You can use it in your food, or if you are
really brave, in a tea. You can also take it in a capsule.
It is said that Cayenne will help to expedite the healing
effects of other herbs.
Chamomile
This herb has many uses. In a tea, it has a relaxing effect
and can sooth the digestive system. It is also excellent for
the skin when applied topically in a cream or lotion. Many
herbal soaps, shampoos and lotions include this herb which
has been used since ancient times.
Echinacea
This much publicized herb can help stabilize the immune
system. It can be taken as a pill or tincture or pulled out
of the ground an eaten as a snack! You may have some of
these purple daisy like flowers growing near you and not
even realize that they have medicinal properties.
Garlic
You thought it was just a tasty root to put on bread but
this herb has been used since ancient Egypt and has
properties that strengthen the immune system. It is used as
a treatment for infections, coughs and colds.
Ginger
Our herb guide likes ginger as it can be used in so many
dishes. It is reputed to aid in circulation.
Parsley
Rich in potassium, this herb is often used as a garnish and
left uneaten. I suggest you put it right in your salad and
eat it up - it has many vitamins and is reputed to
strengthen the kidneys and help with waste removal.
Rosemary
This herb stimulates circulation and aids in memory.
St. John's Wort
No herb guide would be complete without mention of this herb
which is used to treat mild depression and elevate mood.
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