Arnica is a homeopathic herb used to treat aches, pains, and bruises. An herb in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), arnica contains anti-inflammatory compounds. This is thought to relieve muscle and joint pain and heal bruising. It comes from the sub-alpine regions of western North America. It can also be found in arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
The ashwagandha plant is a small shrub with yellow flowers that’s native to India and Southeast Asia. Extracts or powder from the plant’s root or leaves are used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety and fertility issues. Ashwagandha may help improve measures of physical performance in athletes and healthy adults, including VO2 max and strength. Ashwagandha may help reduce symptoms of depression and benefit people with some mental health conditions.
Astragalus is an Asian plant that's been used medicinally for centuries. In Chinese, it's called huang qi, which means "yellow life energy." Astragalus may help enhance your immune system to prevent and fight bacterial and viral infections, including the common cold. Astragalus may help improve heart function in patients with heart failure and reduce symptoms of myocarditis. Astragalus may help alleviate nausea and vomiting in those undergoing chemotherapy.
Black walnuts (Juglans nigra) are a type of tree nut said to offer a number of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health measures. These nuts contain tannins, a class of substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They're also high in unsaturated fat and protein. Though research does not support the use of black walnut in preventing or treating health conditions, black walnut extract has long been used in herbal medicine. Some recommend the supplement form to help treat certain illnesses, including infections. When applied topically, black walnut is said to aid in the treatment of Inflammatory skin disorders, like canker sores, psoriasis, and warts.
Native to eastern North America, bloodroot’s fleshy rhizomes are orange while exuding a red pigment, thus earning it its name. Native Americans used bloodroot as a dye and for its beneficial properties, and it was then later adopted into folk herbalism. Blood root is a strong botanical and can be used sparingly in infusions, tinctures, and topical applications. Bloodroot is often used in topical skincare products due to its high antioxidant content. It is considered a treatment for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis and to debride (reduce) skin growths such as warts, moles, and benign tumors.
Burdock may be considered a weed (due to its ability to spread), but the herb has been employed for centuries as a remedy for a wide range of ailments. In traditional Chinese medicine, burdock fruits, seeds, roots, and leaves have been used as decoctions or teas for colds, gout, rheumatism, stomach ailments, and cancer, as well as used to promote urination, increase sweating, and facilitate bowel movements. It's also been promoted as an aphrodisiac. The root contains numerous phytochemicals, including lignans, triterpenoids, and polyacetylenes, some of which have been shown to promote blood circulation (hence its reputation as a detoxifying agent) and are linked to antidiabetic properties.
It’s native to Western Europe and has especially tough branches. Historically, butchers would bundle its branches to sweep off their chopping blocks — which is how it got its name. Butcher’s broom has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. Its root and rootstock are prized in herbal medicine because they contain various active compounds, including flavonoids and many others. These compounds may be why butcher’s broom is linked to several potential health benefits, such as improved blood circulation and hemorrhoid treatment. Butcher’s broom contains compounds, such as ruscogenin, that may help suppress inflammatory signals and potentially treat damage caused by inflammation.
Calendula is a marigold plant, is native to Canada and the lower 48 states, that has long been used for its skin health benefits, such as helping with wound healing. Calendula petals are rich in naturally occurring compounds called flavonoids. These compounds are said to have anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombogenic, antidiabetic, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects. Calendula has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Research has shown that calendula may treat diaper rash, wounds, vaginal yeast infections, sunburn and other conditions. Calendula has also been used as a pain and inflammation reducer, as well as a way to relieve treatment-related side effects for people with cancer.
The California poppy is the state flower of California. It grows wild in many areas of the United States and is also a popular garden flower. It’s typically marketed as a natural sleep enhancer and commonly combined with other calming herbs like valerian. In addition to being a popular flower amongst gardeners, the California poppy is used for medicinal purposes. Supplements containing California poppy extract, including tinctures and capsules, are said to have calming effects. Proponents claim that these supplements promote relaxation, reduce mild pain, and enhance sleep. In fact, the California poppy has long been used in folk medicine for its sedative properties.
Camphor is a powder that originally came from the bark and wood of the camphor tree. Camphor has a very distinct smell. It seems to stimulate nerves and help with symptoms such as pain and itching. In the nose, camphor seems to create a cold sensation so that breathing feels easier. People use camphor for cough, pain, and itching. It is also used for insect bites, acne, and many other conditions.
Cascara sagrada bark is a shrub native to western North America whose bark is processed for medicinal purposes. Cascara sagrada contains organic plant compounds called anthraquinones that have powerful laxative effects. Cascara sagrada is primarily used to treat constipation. The anthraquinones contained in the bark slow down the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines. Because of this, stool volume increases as it absorbs the excess water, which increases pressure within the intestine. This stimulates muscle contractions in the colon (peristalsis), speeding the clearance of the bowel.
Catnip is an aromatic perennial herb native to central Europe and now naturalized throughout the northeastern US and Canada. Medicinally, the plant has been used to treat intestinal cramps, for indigestion, to cause sweating, to induce menstruation, as a sedative, and to increase appetite. Additionally, the plant has been used to treat diarrhea, colic, the common cold, and cancer. In Appalachia, nervous conditions, stomach ailments, hives, and the common cold have been treated with catnip tea. The dried leaves have been smoked to relieve respiratory ailments, and a poultice has been used externally to reduce swelling.
Cat’s claw is a tropical vine which can grow up to 98 feet tall. Its name comes from its hooked thorns, which resemble the claws of a cat. It is found mainly in the Amazon rainforest and in other tropical areas of South and Central America. Cat’s claw may aid your immune system and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Cat's claw may help relax the smooth muscles, dilate blood vessels, and act as a diuretic.
Cedarwood is derived from the needles, leaves, bark, and berries of cedar trees. Try using cedarwood as a spot treatment on pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. The cedrol in cedarwood may have a soothing effect on mood, making it beneficial for anxiety, and reducing stress. It may reduce the appearance of scars, treat minor wounds, alleviate arthritis pain, and sooth symptoms of eczema.
Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it's now found around the world. The herb smells slightly like an apple, which may explain its name—chamomile is Greek for Earth apple. ChThe list of conditions for which it's been used is extensive. It includes fever, headaches, kidney, liver, and bladder problems, digestive upset, muscle spasms, anxiety, insomnia, skin irritations, bruises, gout, ulcers, rheumatic pain, hay fever, inflammation, hemorrhoids, colic, and menstrual disorders.
Chapparal is composed of broad-leaved evergreen shrubs, bushes, and small trees usually less than 8 feet tall. Chaparral contains various potent compounds that may interact with cancer pathways. Chaparral contains NDGA, an antioxidant that can inhibit lipid peroxidation, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve conditions like arthritis, sciatica, headaches, and stomach pain
Chickweed also called starweed, satin flower, or mouse-ear — is a common weed in the carnation family. It grows low to the ground, has a hairy stem, and produces small, star-shaped, white flowers. It’s primarily found in North America and Europe. If you’re feeling crummy and experience phlegm buildup, chickweed may be helpful. It also provides anti-inflammatory, anti-irritation, and soothing effects.
Cinnamon is derived from the inner bark of the cinnamon tree. Cinnamon seems to lower blood pressure due to the widening effect it has on blood vessels, especially those in the arms and legs. Cinnamon may also help protect you from cancer. Its extract appears to be a natural inhibitor of tumor blood vessel growth factors. Cinnamon is a natural antimicrobial agent that can protect you from getting sick.
Cloves are the aromatic flower buds of a tree in the family Myrtaceae, Syzygium aromaticum. They are native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. Cloves are available throughout the year owing to different harvest seasons across various countries. Clove is a spice that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Cloves have been used to strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and aid in digestion. The spice also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and can be used as a disinfectant.
Colt's foot is a flower in the daisy family that’s long been cultivated for its medicinal properties. it’s said to treat respiratory infections, sore throats, gout, flu, and fever. Coltsfoot is often used as a natural remedy for inflammatory conditions like asthma and gout, a type of arthritis that causes swelling and joint pain. In traditional medicine, coltsfoot is often used as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and whooping cough.
Comfrey is a shrub that grows in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. It can grow up to 5 feet tall. It produces clusters of purple, blue, and white flowers, and it’s famous for its long, slender leaves and black-skinned roots.
People used it to treat muscle sprains, bruises, burns, and joint inflammation.
The roots of leaves of the comfrey plant contain chemical substances called allantoin and rosmarinic acid.
Corn silk tea is made from corn silk — the long, silky fibers that grow inside the husks of ears of corn. Improve urinary tract infections (UTIs). People who practice traditional Native American and Chinese medicine sometimes use corn silk tea to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). Act as a diuretic. Scientists have determined that corn silk tea likely has a mild diuretic effect (increased urine production). Improve angina. One promising application for corn silk is to help the heart condition angina pectoris. Research says corn silk could make the medicines you take for it work better.
Damiana is a wild shrub. It is native to Texas, Mexico, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. The dried leaves are thought to have an aphrodisiac effect for both males and females. This means they are used to improve sexual function. Damiana is also sold as an appetite suppressant. In alternative medicine, damiana is used, to treat medical conditions, including asthma, anxiety, depression, headache, constipation, and menstrual disorders.
Dandelion is sometimes used to help the body remove excess water. Dandelion has also been studied for its antibacterial, antifungal, and immune boosting activity, as well as its use for arthritis, liver disease, diabetes, colitis, prostate cancer, and obesity. Dandelions can act as a diuretic. Diuretics cause you to produce more urine to help remove excess liquid from your body.
Dead Sea salt is salt from the Dead Sea in Israel, which is the saltiest and deepest lake in the world. Known for its healing properties since Biblical times, Dead Sea salt has been used to treat various skin conditions, such as psoriasis, due to solar ultraviolet radiation found in the Dead Sea. Dead Sea Salt is great for your skin—it can boost skin health as well as treat various health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Echinacea is the name of a group of flowering plants in the daisy family. Native Americans have used it for centuries to treat various ailments. Today, it’s best known as an over-the-counter herbal remedy for the common cold or flu. However, it’s also used to treat pain, inflammation, migraines and other health issues. In addition, studies have linked echinacea and their compounds to many health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved immunity and lower blood sugar levels.
Elderberry is dark purple fruit that is a rich source of antioxidants known as anthocyanins. Many say they have had success using elderberry for the prevention and treatment of the common cold and the flu, as well as pain relief. Traditional uses for elderberry—including for hay fever, sinus infections, toothache, sciatica, and burns.
Eleutherococcus is grown in Asian and is a woody shrub also commonly called Siberian ginseng. Herbalists and other natural practitioners call eleuthero an “adaptogen.” Adaptogens are botanicals thought to protect the body from the effects of stress. Uses include heart disease prevention, anxiety relief. depression relief, and recovery from stress burnout. People use eleuthero for genital herpes, diabetes, athletic performance, memory and thinking skills, the common cold, and many other conditions
Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. It’s a chemical compound made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. It gets its name from the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, where it was originally discovered. For hundreds of years, this salt has been used to treat ailments, such as constipation, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. Epsom salt dissolves in water and so can be added to baths and used as a cosmetic.
Eucalyptus is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to Australia. As an ingredient in many products, it is used to reduce symptoms of coughs, colds, and congestion. It also features in creams and ointments aimed at relieving muscle and joint pain. The leaves also contain flavonoids and tannins; flavonoids are plant-based antioxidants, and tannins may help to reduce inflammation.
Fennel, has a pale bulb and long green stalks. It can grow almost anywhere. All parts of the fennel plant, including the bulb, stalk, leaves, and seeds, are edible. Fennel seeds may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiviral effects. A 2020 systematic review found that digesting these seeds may also stimulate prolactin to help mothers naturally produce breast milk. A person can ingest fennel seeds in dishes or as an extract.
Feverfew is a plant native to Asia Minor and the Balkans. Feverfew dried leaves, fresh leaves, and extracts are used in medicine. Feverfew leaves contain many different chemicals, including one called parthenolide. Parthenolide, as well as other chemicals in feverfew, might help decrease migraine headaches. People most commonly use feverfew for migraine headaches. People also use feverfew for itching and tension headache.
Gentian root is an herb that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It comes from a large genus of plants that typically grows in the mountain climates of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. These plants have trumpet-like flowers that come in blue, yellow, and other colors. People have traditionally used gentian root to fight inflammation and swelling, treat infected wounds, and serve as an antidote to animal poison.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest living tree species. Most ginkgo products are made with extract prepared from its fan-shaped leaves. The most helpful components of ginkgo are believed to be flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant qualities, and terpenoids, which help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the "stickiness" of platelets.
Ginger is a flowering plant that originated in Southeast Asia. It’s among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet. Gingerol, a natural component of ginger root, benefits gastrointestinal motility ― the rate at which food exits the stomach and continues along the digestive process. Eating ginger encourages efficient digestion, so food doesn’t linger as long in the gut.
Goldenseal is a perennial plant native to eastern North America. Goldenseal is praised for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s often taken to prevent or treat upper respiratory tract infections and the common cold. It’s also used to treat skin disorders, lack of appetite, heavy or painful periods, sinus infections, indigestion, and other inflammatory or digestive disorders.
Gotu kola is a type of leafy plant indigenous to the tropical wetlands of Southeast Asia. indigenous to the tropical wetlands of Southeast Asia. Gotu kola is believed to have many potential health benefits, ranging from the treatment of infections, such as shingles, to the prevention of Alzheimer's disease, blood clots, and even pregnancy.
Green tea is made from Camellia sinensis, a species of evergreen shrub or small tree in the flowering plant family Theaceae. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that have many health benefits, which may include improved brain function, fat loss, protecting against cancer, and lowering the risk of heart disease. Not only can green tea improve brain function in the short term, it may also protect your brain as you age.
The hemp plant is a stout, aromatic, erect annual herb. The slender canelike stalks are hollow except at the tip and base. The leaves are compound with palmate shape, and the flowers are small and greenish yellow. Hemp may reduce symptoms associated with PMS and menopause, thanks to its high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Hemp seeds are rich in healthy fats. They
have a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which may benefit skin diseases and provide relief from eczema and its uncomfortable symptoms.
Hops are the flower of the hop plant believed to offer health benefits. Alternative practitioners believe that these compounds have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, analgesic (pain-relieving), and even anti-cancer properties. Hops can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Other uses include prostate cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, high cholesterol, tuberculosis, bladder infections, intestinal cramps, an intestinal disorder called mucous colitis, nerve pain, and prolonged painful erection of the penis
Horehound is a perennial plant with small white flowers found growing in the wild throughout Europe and Asia. All parts of the plant are used medicinally. Horehound is an expectorant herb, meaning it helps loosen bronchial secretions and eliminate mucus. Horehound has a long history of use for relieving coughs. Horehound's major active constituent increases the flow of saliva and gastric juice to stimulate the appetite.
Horse chestnut is a tree native to the Balkan Peninsula. The compound aescin in horse chestnut has multiple medicinal properties that could make it useful for treating Chronic Veinous Insufficiency. For example, it may increase blood flow in your veins, possibly improving symptoms. Horse chestnut extract may help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms by reducing pain and swelling.
Icelandic moss isn’t moss. It’s actually a lichen. A lichen is a dual organism consisting of a type of fungi and algae or bacterium. Both coexist together to allow it to exist in harsh climates. Icelandic moss is most widely known for its role in alleviating coughs, sore throat, and mouth irritation. Iceland moss is also used for treating loss of appetite, common cold, and other conditions. It is also powerfully antibiotic, containing usnic acid and other lichen acids that combat bacteria and viruses.
Kava, also often called kava kava, is is a plant native to the South Pacific islands. It is a tropical evergreen shrub with heart-shaped leaves and woody stems. Kava has received widespread attention for its relaxing and stress-reducing properties. Kava can help decrease anxiety. Kava is a natural
alternative to prescription sleep medications. While it’s effective at treating stress-induced insomnia
Kelp is a type of large, brown seaweed that grows in shallow, nutrient-rich saltwater near coastal fronts around the world. It differs slightly in color, flavor, and nutrient profile from the type you may see in sushi rolls. Kelp is high in antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which help fight against disease-causing free radicals. Kelp may also have potential for diabetes and obesity.
Lavender, of course, begins as a plant with bright purple flowers. Lavender was recommended for people suffering from insomnia or other sleep disorders. The calming effects of lavender might be enough to soothe away a headache or migraine. Lavender has long been used as a traditional remedy for burns. Lavender’s soothing powers might extend to healing wounded skin.
Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb that comes from the same family as mint. The herb is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, but it’s grown around the world. Lemon balm has traditionally been used to improve mood and cognitive function. Lemon balm is said to soothe symptoms of stress, help you to relax, and boost your mood. If you experience frequent abdominal pain and discomfort, lemon balm may have a positive effect on your digestion.
Lemongrass is an herb that is native to Sri Lanka and South India but now grows in many countries around the world. Lemongrass might help prevent the growth of some bacteria and yeast. Lemongrass also contains substances that are thought to relieve pain and swelling, reduce fever, improve levels of sugar and cholesterol in the blood, stimulate the uterus and menstrual flow, and have antioxidant properties.
Marshmallow root is a perennial herb that’s native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It’s been used as a folk remedy for thousands of years to treat digestive, respiratory, and skin conditions. Marshmallow root has antibacterial activity that may make it effective in wound healing. The high mucilaginous content of marshmallow root may make it a useful remedy for treating coughs and colds.
Meadowsweet is an herb with white, sweet-smelling flowers that are used in teas and extracts. Historically, it has been used as a diuretic and to treat inflammatory conditions, including joint pain and gout. Compounds in meadowsweet that may have beneficial properties include flavonoids, ellagitannins, and salicylic acid. These compounds, among others, may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
In 1771, German chemist Hieronymus David Gaubius first isolated menthol, an essential oil from the mint plant. Although the peppermint plant contains the greatest concentration of Menthol, most menthol extracted today comes from the cornmint variety of mint. Once extracted from the plant, it can be crystallized for various uses. creates a cooling sensation by triggering skin receptors that detect the sensation of coolness. Menthol can be used as an expectorant and is often used to treat the flu, colds and bronchitis.
The mullein plant has been around for thousands of years. The plant is found in many parts of the world, including the United States, and has more than 200 species. For centuries, mullein flowers and leaves were used on animals and people for a variety of issues, including: cough, congestion, bronchitis, asthma, constipation, pain, inflammation, migraine, sleep, and gout. Mullein also has antiviral activity against influenza A and herpes.
Neem is a tree that grows in tropical regions such as India. The leaf extract is used to reduce tooth plaque and to treat lice. Neem contains chemicals that might help reduce blood sugar levels, heal ulcers in the digestive tract, prevent pregnancy, kill bacteria, and prevent plaque from forming in the mouth. Researchers have found that neem products are virtually nontoxic and are compatible with beneficial insects, pollinators and bees. They are environmentally benign, sustainable, renewable and affordable.
Ancient Egyptians used stinging nettle to treat arthritis and lower back pain, while Roman troops rubbed it on themselves to help stay warm. Stinging nettle offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, polyphenols and pigments — many of which also act as antioxidants inside your body. Stinging nettle may help suppress inflammation, which in turn could aid inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, but more research is needed.
Oat straw comes from the unripened Avena sativa plant, which is commonly grown in Northern Europe and North America. It has been used to support brain health since the Middle Ages, and its proponents say it can reduce the risk of heart disease, increase energy, reduce anxiety and improve physical and possibly even sexual performance. The entire plant is rich in minerals and trace nutrients such as silica, magnesium, phosphorus, chromium, iron, calcium, alkaloids, protein, the vitamin B complex, and vitamins A and C.
Oregon grape is a flowering herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat numerous conditions, including psoriasis, stomach issues, heartburn, and low mood. Oregon grape may treat psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Berberine, a powerful plant compound in Oregon grape, may exert strong antimicrobial activity and help improve symptoms of IBS, heartburn, and low mood.
Passion flower is a climbing vine with white and purple flowers. The chemicals in passion flower have calming effects. Passion flower is native to the southeastern United States and Central and South America. It's been traditionally used to help with sleep. People use passion flower for anxiety, including anxiety before surgery. Some people also take passion flower for insomnia, stress, ADHD, pain, and many other conditions.
Pau d’arco is made from the inner bark of several species of Tabebuia trees that grow in Central and South America. Pau d’arco may protect against a number of disease-causing organisms. Pau d’arco extract may promote weight loss by inhibiting dietary fat absorption. Scientists have identified two active chemicals in pau d'arco: lapachol and beta-lapachone. In lab tests, these chemicals killed some bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, and may be effective against diseases such as osteoarthritis.
This herb is a cross between two types of mints: water mint and spearmint. Peppermint has compounds that relax the tissues in GI tracts. Peppermint can ease side effects of irritable bowel syndrome like gas, stomach pain, constipation, and diarrhea. The active ingredient in peppermint is menthol. Some small studies show it can lessen the pain of migraine headaches. It may also reduce other symptoms like light sensitivity, nausea, and vomiting.
Plantain produces greenish flowers and has large, oval-shaped leaves that can be eaten raw or cooked. Known for growing everywhere from parking lots to playgrounds, plantain weed is often dismissed as a pervasive garden pest. However, it’s not only edible and readily available but also has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. In fact, plantain weed contains plant compounds that may reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote wound healing.
Pleurisy root comes from the orange pleurisy plant native to North America. It’s also known as butterfly milkweed. The root of the pleurisy plant has been used medicinally for many years, beginning with Native Americans. Pleurisy root can aid in minor pulmonary edema, which means it helps drain excess fluid in the lungs. The herb is said to have antispasmodic properties, which means it may make menstrual cramps less intense.
Red raspberry is a plant native to Europe and parts of Asia and known for its sweet, nutritious berries. For centuries, red raspberry leaves have been used to treat various health ailments and induce labor during pregnancy. Red raspberry leaves contain polyphenols like tannins and flavonoids, which can help protect cells from damage. In addition, the leaves contain small amounts of ellagic acids, which have been shown to neutralize carcinogens and even contribute to the self-destruction of cancer cells.
Red raspberry is a plant native to Europe and parts of Asia and known for its sweet, nutritious berries. For centuries, red raspberry leaves have been used to treat various health ailments and induce labor during pregnancy. Red raspberry leaves contain polyphenols like tannins and flavonoids, which can help protect cells from damage. In addition, the leaves contain small amounts of ellagic acids, which have been shown to neutralize carcinogens and even contribute to the self-destruction of cancer cells.
Red clover is a wild flowering plant belonging to the same family as peas and beans. It is a dark-pink herbaceous plant originating from Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It’s widely used in traditional medicine as a remedy for menopause symptoms, asthma, whooping cough, arthritis, and even cancer. It is also used to treat osteoporosis, heart disease, arthritis, and skin disorders. Red clover extract has been used in traditional medicine to promote skin and hair health.
Rhubarb is a plant. The root and underground stem (rhizome) are used to make medicine. Rhubarb is used primarily for digestive complaints including constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and preparation for certain GI diagnostic procedures. Some people use rhubarb so they have to strain less during bowel movements; this reduces pain from hemorrhoids or tears in the skin lining the anal canal (anal fissures). Rhubarb is sometimes applied to the skin to treat cold sores.
Rose hips are found underneath rose petals. Rose hips are usually red-orange, though yellow and black varieties can also be found. Rose hips get their red-orange color from carotenoid pigments known as lycopene and beta carotene. These pigments have been shown to promote skin and eye health. They’re also rich in disease-fighting antioxidants, such as vitamin C, catechins, quercetin, and ellagic acid. A diet rich in these compounds can help lower inflammation and oxidative stress in your body.
Rosemary is an evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and a woody aroma. Rosemary may help you focus and remember information. It may also aid your memory as you age. Rosemary may reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone that can have harmful effects on your body. It may boost attention, alertness, energy and mood. It may also help lower inflammation in injuries and rheumatoid arthritis.
Senna is an herbal medicine made from the leaves, flowers, and fruit of a large group of flowering plants in the legume family. The most common application for senna is to stimulate bowel movements. The primary active compounds in senna leaves are known as senna glycosides, or sennosides. Sennosides cannot be absorbed in your digestive tract, but they can be broken down by your gut bacteria. Senna is primarily used to alleviate constipation, but some people may also use it to prepare for colonoscopies and manage hemorrhoid symptoms.
Skullcap is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family. American and Chinese skullcap are flowering plants commonly used in natural medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including insomnia, inflammation, and diarrhea. Skullcap contain an array of beneficial plant compounds, including antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory effects and protect your cells from damage caused by molecules called free radicals.
A wild yellow flower regarded as a weed throughout most of the United States, St. John's wort has been used for medical purposes in other parts of the world for thousands of years. People use St. John's wort to treat depression and menopausal symptoms. St. John’s wort can be effective in treating wounds, bruises, burns, and sores. St. John’s wort has been used for a variety of conditions, including kidney and lung ailments, and insomnia.
Thyme is an herb from the mint family. Thyme is known for its antibacterial properties, and it might have a future as an acne-fighting ingredient. Thyme might have a positive effect on your feelings and mood. Thyme is packed with helpful nutrients, including, vitamin A, vitamin C, copper, fiber, iron, and manganese. Thyme is often used as a natural cough remedy. Thyme may significantly lower heart rate accompanied with high blood pressure.
Uva ursi is a trailing evergreen shrub that produces red berries and flourishes in alpine forests in many regions, including North America, Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, Siberia, and the Himalayas. Native Americans used it as a remedy for urinary tract infections. The plants contain natural chemicals with infection-fighting properties, called glycosides and arbutin. Uva ursi has been used to treat bladder infections and to lighten skin.
Valerian is a flowering plant with light pink, purple, or white flowers that appear in early June. People have used the root of the plant throughout the years as an alternative medicine. Valerian root could be helpful as a sleep aid. The plant root is thought to have a mild sedative effect. Valerian root can be helpful for treating severe PMS symptoms. Researchers found that theextract made a significant difference in decreasing PMS symptoms.
Vervain belongs to the Verbenaceae family and has lobed, toothed leaves, and silky, pale-purple flowers. Vervain’s glycosides, triterpenoids, and essential oils may help inhibit tumor growth and induce the death of cancerous cell. Vervain may benefit certain neurological or brain-related conditions. Vervain’s glycoside verbenalin — also known as cornin — may significantly improve brain damage after a stroke. Vervain may protect against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi.
The willow family includes a number of different species of trees and shrubs native to Europe, Asia, and some parts of North America. Antioxidant compounds called polyphenolic glycosides and flavonoids are also found in white willow bark. These have been shown to protect against oxidative stress and various symptoms tied to aging, such as poor physical performance, cognitive decline, etc. White willow bark can help people dealing with chronic joint pain and injuries.
Wild cherry is a plant. The bark is used to make medicine. Wild cherry is used for colds, whooping cough, bronchitis and other lung problems; diarrhea; gout; digestive disorders; pain; and cancer. Wild Cherry Bark is classed as a bitter herb – bitters support digestive function by stimulating bitter receptors on the tongue, stomach, gallbladder and pancreas. Their primary effect is to promote digestive juices such as stomach acid, bile and enzymes to breakdown food and assist in the absorption of nutrients.