Healthy Herbs For The Human Body

By Kate McMahon


Thousands of years before prescription medication was available for human health ailments, people used healthy herbs to keep the body well, both physically and emotionally. These plant based medications help to strengthen one's immune system or to relieve pain. They often are purchased in dried form, although it is also possible to grow many of the plants in one's own garden.

Even though these remedies have been used for centuries and are natural, they can also cause undesirable side effects. Before combining herbs with any other medication, talk with a pharmacist or your doctor about any possible interactions. Nursing mothers as well as pregnant women should talk with their doctor about any problems the herb could cause for their baby.

Echinacea is an immune system stimulant. It was first used by Native Americans, but today is understood to help produce lymphocytes that help to destroy viruses and foreign bacteria. Some evidence suggests this herb should not be used by individuals with auto-immune diseases. It may reduce the time to heal from the common cold. Echinacea is used as a tea or leaves of the plants may be used in the capsule form.

St. John's Wort is offers help with depression and other mood disorders. It is an herbal alternative to Prozac. It can help to increase serotonin production in the body. The herb does have side effects and should not be combined with other anti-depressants. Other prescription medication is affected by the herb.

Chamomile can help users to relax. It makes a great tasting tea without caffeine. It is helpful with insomnia, mouth ulcers, anxiety, eczema and gum disease. It can help with problems with the nervous and digestive systems. Chamomile is also thought to have antimicrobial properties. Tinctures offer an option other than the tea that some people prefer to use.

Ginseng offers a natural energy booster without using caffeine. It has been used in China for thousands of years and may help with intellectual performance as well as with memory. Ginseng helps to combat the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. It does cause water retention and may lead to insomnia. Individuals with high blood pressure should not use this herb. It is found in teas, tinctures and as capsules.

Ginkgo can help to boost one's memory. It is recorded as being used first in China more than 5,000 years ago. The herb offers antioxidant help and improves nerve action as well as circulation. Side effects include mild headaches and upset stomach. The herb does cause thinning of the blood, so it should not be used in conjunction with aspirin or within the weeks before surgery. The root of the plant is brewed into a tea, but extracts are also available for individuals who prefer the ability to simply add the herb to other beverages they enjoy without waiting for it to brew.

Healthy herbs offer many positive benefits for the human body. However, certain medical conditions make the side effects undesirable. When used correctly, you may feel better, and your body better prepared to fight against disease.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment