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Treating the body with herbs is an age-old practice the earliest use of herbal medicine was documented 60,000 years ago in Iraq and 8,000 years ago in China. In these countries, herbal medicine was essential for the inhabitants. They discovered that the herbs could be consumed by drinking, inhaling, eating, and applying to the skin. In a historical article from The National Library of Medicine, Chinese and Arabic Herbal Medicine, not only were these herbs effective against ailments. They were the basis of the modern medicine we rely on today.
In this article, I will explore various herbs and the abundance of benefits that follow them;
Ginger
Eiliv Aceron (@shootdelicious)
Ginger is a popular root herb best paired with sushi, curry, and tea. The main benefits of ginger come from the effects on nausea, inflammation, and incurable chronic illnesses like IBS. Utilizing ginger is a perfect way to help alleviate stomach pain. Along with pain-numbing abilities, ginger can also take away colds, sore throats, and fevers. These effects are all made possible by gingerol, a bioactive in ginger. Gingerol is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, freeing the body from pain.
Turmeric
Prchi Palwe (@palwes_kitchen)
The benefits of herbs increase when combined, for example, turmeric and black pepper or turmeric and ginger. The benefits of turmeric and ginger double due to their similar qualities. Turmeric gives curry a yellow color after being ground; it can also be drunk in teas that include ginger and cinnamon. Turmeric supplements can bring out the full benefits of the herb due to its inability to absorb well into the bloodstream. Like ginger, turmeric fights against inflammation thanks to the bioactive Curcumin, which is also said to increase brain function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Peppermint
Alexander Schimmeck (@alschim29)
Another herb known for fighting nausea and inflammation, peppermint is a popular flavor and scent. This chilling herb is in candies, tea, and aromatherapy. By consuming peppermint, you can bring relief to digestion issues and headaches. Inhaling the bioactive menthol and menthone brings the same effects. The versatility of peppermint makes it easy to start using.
Oregano
Markus Spiske (@markusspiske)
Oregano, a popular herb used heavily in Mediterranean cuisine, is a go-to herb for deepening a dish’s flavor. Mainly being an herb for cooking, oregano is drunk in tea and applied through oils. Following the theme, this herb fights inflammation while strengthening the immune system, has high antioxidants, and fights off viruses. Oregano can fight off diseases thanks to the two antioxidants, carvacrol, and thymol. Sprinkling oregano on your dishes can be beneficial, but consider using oils for a higher dosage.
Thyme
J. R. Lopez (@blackbirdunbroken)
Thyme is an aromatic used for the earthy lemon taste it brings to vegetables and meat. Thyme goes well with fish, chicken, potatoes, and broccoli, which can add a unique flavor. Thyme has just as many uses in the kitchen as it has health benefits, with the biocide thymol being the cause of its versatility. Thymol is a substance that can destroy harmful infection bacteria while also getting rid of pests like mosquitoes. Thyme is an herb you should have in your daily rotation for its full benefits.
Eucalyptus
Annie Spratt (@anniespratt)
A unique case among the herbs is eucalyptus, one of the few herbs in modern medicine. Eucalyptus is the most commonly used in over-the-counter cough and cold products for congestion and sinuses. For chronic pain, oils and balms can help relieve pain in joints. This herb brings relief to various forms of pain, even reducing stress. By hanging a branch of eucalyptus over the shower head, the steam from your shower will carry the oil and benefits into your system. Eucalyptus can be used daily for relief and is in most drug stores.
Herbs For Sleeping
Some herbs are high in a compound called tryptophan, an amino acid that can improve the production of serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that carries messages throughout the brain affecting your mood and how you sleep. Too much serotonin can lead to insomnia, while too little can lead to depression. Studies have shown that herbs such as lavender, chamomile, and valerian can help induce sleep while raising and regulating serotonin. Drinking tea made from these herbs before bed can help you fall asleep and also work to reduce anxiety and stress. If you dislike the taste of these herbs putting their oils in warm bath water or lighting scented candles can still yield benefits.
Lavender
Antony BEC (@antony.bec)
Lavender is known for its sleep aid and anxiety reduction while also playing a part in our moods. Using this herb is always a pleasant treat the fresh scent and the light colors are soothing. The colors and the scent help to relieve depression, stabilize mood disorders, and surprisingly can help you stay more awake during the day.
Chamomile
Nia Ramirez (@niiacreativa)
Chamomile is a popular herb used in teas, essential oils, and skincare products. Chamomile is a silent powerhouse of benefits, an herb that can fight inflammation, relieve colds, help with digestion, and is beneficial for your immune system.
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