19 Medicinal Herbs – Amazing Healing With Herbs In Your Garden.

In this post we look at some of the very best medicinal herbs. Discover how healing with herbs can alleviate some of the most common health problems and complement modern medical treatments.

Plants have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In fact writings have been found with herbal remedies and medicines being used as early as 3000 BC.

We see clear examples of herbalism being practiced in early Eastern cultures, such as the beginnings Feng Shui and TCM in China and Ayurveda in India.

There are clear examples of herbalism throughout ancient Greek and Roman writings and Medieval Europe has many examples, not all of them positive. Take for instance the witch trials and extracts from the Malleus Maleficarum (Hammer of the Wiches) that saw many women being tried for wichcraft when in fact they were village midwives and herbalists.

Thankfully modernized society has retained the positive features and history from herbalism

The benefits of herbal medicine, as with all complementary therapies, is that all of the treatments target the problem rather than simply treating symptoms as many modern medical treatments do.

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What Are The Best Medicinal Herbs?

  • Valerian,
  • Asian Ginseng,
  • Saw Palmetto,
  • Feverfew,
  • Evening Primrose,
  • Ginkgo Biloba,
  • Alfalfa,
  • Basil,
  • Cayenne,
  • Cinnamon,
  • Dandelion,
  • Garlic,
  • Aloe Vera,
  • Angelica,
  • Celery Seed,
  • Chamomile,
  • Echinacea,
  • Eucalyptus,
  • Mint.

Healing with herbs and Herbalism is now widely accepted and recognized as an alternative or complementary medicine. There are also many pharmaceuticals and prescription medications that have a basis in herbalism.

  • Opioids and opium, which come from the Poppy plant
  • Aspirin developed from Willow Bark
  • Digitalis derived from Foxglove
  • Quinine from the Cinchona tree

Today the use of herbal medicine has enjoyed a rejuvenation in popularity. A recent study by the World Health Organization found that about 80% of the global population use herbs in some way for their health care practices.

In Germany almost 70% of doctors prescribe herbs to their patients and there are more than 650 plant based medicines available.

Much of this can be explained by the general dissatisfaction with modern healthcare experienced by many people over the last few decades.

The rising cost of healthcare alongside the many side effects associated with prescription medications has prompted considerable interest in holistic and natural health care methods, including herbalism.

healing with herbs - medicinal herbs and their uses
Healing with Herbs – Medicinal Herbs

Healing With Herbal Medicine.

The 12 Medicinal Herbal Remedies are.

1. Valerian.

Valerian is one of the most widely used of medicinal herbs. Its Uses Include:

  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Nervous asthma
  • Hysteria
  • Excitability
  • Hypochondria
  • Migraines and headaches
  • Stomach upset
  • Depression
  • Epilepsy
  • ADHD
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Menopausal symptoms, such as, hot flashes and anxiety.
valerian medicinal herbs - healing with herbs

 Caution: Valerian root is strong and remedies can cause side effects in some people, including, insomnia, headache and excitability. Best to check the information on supplements before use.

2. Asian Ginseng.

This herb contains the active ingredient, Ginsenosides. It is used for:

  • Boosting immunity
  • Cold prevention
  • Lower blood sugar levels
  • Improve concentration and learning

Caution: Ginseng sometimes causes nervousness and insomnia and long term use or ginseng use in higher doses can cause upset stomach, headaches and other symptoms.

asian ginseng - medicinal herbs - healing with herbs

3. Saw Palmetto.

Multiple studies have shown Saw Palmetto, a supplement made from the fruit of the Serenoa repens tree, to be useful for:

  • Treating enlarged prostate,
  • Improving urinary function,
  • Stimulating hair growth,
  • Boosting libido and fertility,
  • Reducing inflammation.

Caution:

If you are taking prescription medications consult with your doctor before using Saw Palmetto.

It can have side effects with
blood thinners, aspirin and NSAIDs, such as, ibuprofen and naproxen.

saw palmetto - healing with herbs

4. Feverfew.

When healing with herbs it is the leaves of Feverfew that are used for medicinal treatment. It is claimed that the Feverfew has many uses, including:

  • Migraine Headaches,
  • Anti inflammatory
  • Relief for Arthritis,
  • Treating irregular menstrual cycles,
  • Psoriasis,
  • Allergies,
  • Asthma,
  • Tinnitus,
  • Vomiting and Nausea,
  • Dizziness.

Caution:

Some people believe that chewing Feverfew leaves can help alleviate ill health, but this can be unsafe as it may cause, sores, swelling and loss of taste in the mouth.  Use of Feverfew should be via supplements or within a prepared treatment.

feverfew herb

5. Evening Primrose.

One of the most well known of our anti inflammatory herbal remedies is the Evening Primrose.

It is not the Evening Primrose plant that is valued. It is the oil.

Evening Primrose Oil is produced from the seed of the evening primrose plant.

Used For:

  • Acne,
  • Psoriasis,
  • Eczema,
  • PMS,
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis,
  • Osteoporosis,
  • Raynaud’s Syndrome,
  • Nerve Pain,
  • Menopause,
  • Bruises,
  • Digestion.
evening primrose

6. Ginkgo Biloba.

The Ginkgo Biloba leaf is primarily used for boosting mental capacity. It is believed that medication derived from the Ginkgo enhances blood flow to the brain.

In 2009 a study showed that Ginkgo Biloba may be beneficial for treating dementia and Alzheimer’s.

The study showed significant improvement in patients given an extract made from Ginkgo Biloba.

Other uses are:

  • Anxiety,
  • Asthma,
  • Bronchitis,
  • Depression,
  • Erectile Dysfunction,
  • Fatigue,
  • Glaucoma,
  • High Blood Pressure,
  • Insulin Resistance,
  • Multiple Sclerosis,
  • Peripheral Artery Disease,
  • Tinnitus

Caution: there are possible side effects if you are taking anticoagulant products, antidepressants, or are pregnant and if you have any allergic reactions to cashews, poison ivy or mangos.

ginkgo biloba

7. Alfalfa.

Alfalfa is one of the most versatile of medicinal remedies.

It is known to be useful to treat many ailments including:

  • works as a gentle laxative,
  • A Diuretic,
  • A Digestive aid,
  • For bacterial bladder infection or inflammation,
  • Heart disorders,
  • Respiratory disorders,
  • Stomach problems,
  • Arthritis,
  • High blood pressure,
  • Hair repair.

Caution:

Alfalfa may aggravate autoimmune disorders or reduce iron absorption. If you are impacted by these issues, always discuss with a Doctor before use.

alfalfa

8. Basil.

Commonly used in cooking and found in kitchens, Basil is also great for healing remedies and is known to treat several ailments.

Basil can be used for:

  • Make a herbal tea by boiling fresh basil leaves with honey and ginger to treat asthma and bronchitis.
  • Basil helps to break down and clear the mucus that often accompanies asthma and bronchitis due to it being a natural expectorant.
  • Basil is thought to lower cholesterol.
  • Chewing basil leaves is said to reduce stress and clear mouth infections.

Caution:

Over use of Basil long term may lead to low blood sugar or liver damage.

basil

9. Cayenne.

Another spice most often used in cooking can be used for the following medicinal purposes:

  • To ease an upset stomach,
  • To break up congestion and clear mucus in the lungs,
  • Helps prevent migraine and headaches,
  • To clear a stuffy nose,
  • Helps relieve allergies,
  • Stimulates the digestive system,
  • Relieves bloat and gas,
  • Potentially helps reduce the chance of heart attack and stroke,
  • Stimulates the circulatory system,
  • Supports weight loss by stimulating metabolism,
  • Promotes heart health.
cayenne

Caution:

Cayenne may interact with medication. It is advised you talk to your doctor before using for medicinal purposes.

10. Cinnamon.

Cinnamon is an excellent spice for day to day optimal health:

  • Helps to lower blood sugar,
  • Lowers cholesterol,
  • Treats yeast infections,
  • Reduces inflammation,
  • Helps to relieve pain,
  • Helps aid digestion,
  • Relieves acne.

Caution:

Cinnamon is safe, however for those who have low blood sugar please ensure you monitor your blood sugar levels if using a lot of cinnamon.

cinnamon

11. Dandelion.

  • Applying fresh dandelion juice to wounds will promote healing and fight infection,
  • Use the white sap of the dandelion stalk to remove warts and corns.
  • Dandelion tea, or drinking dandelion juice, is said to be helpful for treating gallstones, kidney disorders, high blood pressure, acne, and eczema.

Caution:

If you are allergic to ragweed do not use Dandelion.  

dandelion

12. Garlic. Medicinal Herbs.

Garlic is a natural antibiotic that has many healing qualities. It can be used for:

  • Acne breakouts,
  • Lowering and improving cholesterol,
  • Soothing a cough,
  • To treat bronchitis,
  • Lowering blood pressure,
  • Strengthening the immune system,
  • Reducing symptoms of a cold,
  • Treating yeast infections,
  • Topical wart treatment.

Caution:

Garlic should be avoided 2 weeks before surgery as it may cause prolonged bleeding.  

garlic

13. Aloe Vera. Healing With Herbs.

Aloe Vera is one of the most versatile when healing with herbs. It is the gel inside the stem that is most useful.

  • Heals burns, cuts and scrapes,
  • Helps to heal bruises,
  • Heals and cools sunburn,
  • Reduces pain associated with insect stings or bites,
  • Alleviates a number of rashes,
  • Helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles,
  • Great as a facial moisturizer or treatment for dry skin,
  • Treating minor inflammation or skin conditions,
  • Soothes Psoriasis,
  • Decreases pigmentation and dark spots on the skin,
  • Aloe Vera juice relieves gastrointestinal disorders, such as indigestion,
  • Aloe juice has laxative effects,
  • Helps reduce bloat,
  • Relieves Irritable Bowel Syndrome,
  • Alleviates asthma symptoms,
  • Relieves heartburn,
  • Reduces arthritis and rheumatism pain.
aloe vera

14. Angelica.

  • The roots and leaves of Angelica are used as an expectorant for coughs and bronchitis,
  • Stimulates the secretion of phlegm,
  • Increases urine production,
  • Helps improve sex drive,
  • Kills germs.

Caution:

May make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.  

angelica

15. Celery Seed.

When thinking about medicinal herbs we probably do not think of celery.

However it is an excellent health treatment. It is the fruit and seeds of the celery that are used. Either dried or pressed to gain the oil.

Celery seed and oil is used to treat:

  • Nervousness,
  • Headaches,
  • Exhaustion,
  • Joint pain,
  • Loss of appetite,
  • Aid digestion,
  • Regulates bowel movements,
  • For relaxation and sleep,
  • Bacterial urinary tract infections,
  • Intestinal gas,
  • Increase sexual drive.
celery seeds

16. Chamomile.

Chamomile is well known as a herbal treatment and is used for many health and healing purposes including:

chamomile

17. Echinacea.

The leaves, flowers and roots of the Echinacea plant are used. They primarily are used to treat infection. Some specific uses are:

  • Infection due to cold and flu,
  • Upper respiratory infections,
  • As a blood cleanser,
  • To treat carbuncles and boils,
  • Urinary tract infections,
  • Vaginal yeast infections,
  • Genital herpes,
  • Gum disease,
  • Tonsillitis,
  • Throat infections,
  • Typhoid,
  • Syphilis,
  • Malaria,
  • Diphtheria,
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome,
  • Migraines,
  • Rheumatism,
  • Heartburn,
  • Pain,
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder,
  • Common skin ailments, such as boils, burns, abscesses, cuts and scrapes
  • Eczema,
  • Psoriasis,
  • Bee stings,
  • Haemorrhoids.
echinacea

18. Eucalyptus.

Eucalyptus leaves from the Eucalypt tree are dried and pressed to make a medicinal oil.

  • Eucalyptus oil is wonderful when used as a steam vapor. It is inhaled to clear the lungs, open airways and stimulate nasal passages.
  • Often used in spas and steam rooms as the vapor of Eucalyptus aids health and due to its antibacterial properties,
  • Used in aromatherapy to relieve tension and stress,
  • It can relieve symptoms associated with bronchitis and asthma.
  • Can alleviate arthritis pain.
eucalyptus

19. Mint.

Mint is a wonderful medicinal herb and is known to relieve:

mint

I hope this article gives you some tips about healing with herbs and how you may use these medicinal plants and natural remedies to combat illness and disease. If you know of other herbs used for treatments please do contribute via the comments section below.

If you have questions or suggestions please do get in contact with me by clicking here.

19 medicinal herbs - amazing healing with herbs in your garden.
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HolisticJB
Educator and International Leadership Consultant with over 20 years experience, and still loving it! Qualified and Licensed Reiki Master Teacher, Hypnotherapist and Chakra Energy Health Body Worker. A traveler, a foodie and a knowledge seeker with a passion for all things healthy, herbal and energy holistic!

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