In our journey to improve our health, sometimes we’re hit with an illness or injury that temporarily derails our journey. When this happens, it’s easy to grab commercial pharmaceuticals first, because that’s what we’ve always known to do. Walk into the drugstore, find the aisle that matches your symptoms, checkout, and you have another over-the-counter medication with harsh ingredients and sneaky side effects to add to your home medicine cabinet.
But what if you could trade the harsh ingredients and sneaky side effects from conventional medicines for natural remedies and herbal recipes made in your home kitchen?
Let’s explore 10 easy herbs to grow or purchase, that you can try in place of OTC medications for common ailments
10 Herbs For Common Ailments
Elecampane for Coughs: Elecampane is known as the Robitussin of the herbal world, and it packs a punch! It has long been used to break apart the thick mucus that accompanies certain types of asthma, covid, and upper respiratory infections. It can also help with other conditions in the bladder and intestines that may produce excess mucus.
Echinacea for Immune Support: When you feel a cold or flu coming on, Echinacea can be your ally. This immune-boosting herb stimulates the body’s immune system, helping to fight off infections and shorten the duration of illness.
Peppermint for Digestive Upset: Instead of relying on antacids or digestive aids, try chewing on a peppermint leaf or drinking a cup of peppermint tea for relief from indigestion, nausea, and upset stomach. Peppermint is well-known for its digestive benefits in alleviating gas and bloating.
Jewelweed for Rashes: Jewelweed is handy to have on hand infused into an oil for quick help with rashes. It works fast on the skin to soothe inflammation and dry the oils from compounds found in irritating plants such as poison ivy, and poison oak. It also helps to calm skin rashes fast.
Valerian for Sleep Support: Valerian has sedative and relaxant properties that can help calm the mind and promote restful sleep. Take it as a tincture or tea about 30 minutes before bed can help to better prepare the mind and body for sleep.
Chamomile for Anxiety: This gentle herb has properties that help to calm the body. If you are someone who has anxiety and stress that is particularly hard on your stomach, Chamomile may be a great option for you.
Stinging Nettle for Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Stinging Nettle has powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate related pain. It can be used in a tea or tincture, and to unlock its high nutritional value, eat freshly stewed spring nettles.
St. John’s Wort for Depression: St. John’s Wort is a well-known herbal remedy for mild to moderate depression. It contains compounds that act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, similar to prescription antidepressants. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using St. John’s Wort, as it can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. This herb should NOT be used for severe depression and some other mental health conditions and you should always discuss it with your medical team BEFORE taking it.
Lemon Balm for Stress Relief: During times of high stress, a cup of Lemon Balm can offer great support for calming frayed nerves. This herb has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve mood.
Yarrow for Fevers: One of Yarrow’s most popular herbal properties is its diaphoretic properties. Herbs that have this property encourage the body to sweat and push fluids through the body faster. During a fever, sweating helps to ease fever and push toxins and illness through the body faster. Bonus: Yarrow is incredibly beneficial for colds and flu.
While herbs can offer effective alternatives to OTC medications for common ailments, it’s important to use them carefully. Always research herbs thoroughly, consult with a qualified herbalist or your healthcare team, and consider potential contraindications or interactions with medications and medical conditions before incorporating them into your routine.
