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 herbal remedies have been used for centuries and they are all natural, they can cause side effects. This means it is essential to talk with your doctor about potential side effects, especially if taking other medication. In addition, pregnant or nursing women should talk with their obstetrician or pediatrician about possible effects on the baby before beginning to use them as a supplement.

Echinacea is an herb used in improving immune system function. Discovered by Native Americans, the plant helps the body to produce lymphocytes to destroy pathogens. However, according to some clinical evidence, individuals with autoimmune diseases should avoid this herb. It can help to reduce the time the body needs to recover from a cold when used as a tea or taken in 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 can help to boost one's energy. This ancient Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years. It may also help to stimulate intellectual performance. Individuals who suffer chronic fatigue syndrome may find ginseng useful. However it can also cause insomnia and water retention. Individuals suffering from hypertension should not use ginseng. Ginseng is used as a tea, tincture or in the capsule form.

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.




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