Did you know that many common ingredients in most household spice racks can do more than just add zest to your favorite dishes? Some culinary herbs also have natural healing properties and have been used in herbal and folk medicine for centuries. These herbs and spices may also be used together as natural remedies for everyday health problems. Although time honored, herbs have yet to receive FDA approval. Always check with your health care provider before using herbs for medicinal purposes.
Common Cold and Flu
While there may be no cure for the common cold or flu, certain herbs may help strengthen your immune system, shorten the duration of the illness and alleviate certain symptoms. Rosemary and garlic have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Adding these herbs to soups and teas helps fight infection. The Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide explains that the main component of garlic, allicin, acts as a natural antibiotic. In addition, clove, cinnamon and ginger may help relieve nausea and diarrhea while helping to increase circulation in the body. These three herbs are often added to other herbal remedies to increase their effectiveness.
Rheumatism and Arthritis
Cayenne pepper, ginger and turmeric are all natural anti-inflammatories. They are warming to the body but do not increase blood pressure. Each of these common spices can be made into a tea by steeping 1 tsp. in a cup of boiling water. Consuming these spices on a regular basis may also help relieve inflammation in the joints and muscles. Cayenne pepper, also known as capsicum, can be added to lotions or creams and rubbed into sore muscles and joints. The Clayton College herb guide also lists arthritis among the key uses for each one of these culinary herbs.
Headaches and Migraines
Peppermint and ginger tea are both used by herbalists to treat severe headaches and migraines. Both are calming herbs that have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Peppermint oil is also sometimes used topically to alleviate headache pain. Drinking peppermint and ginger tea may help reduce the severity of headaches and migraines. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites one study that showed that peppermint oil applied to the forehead and temples helped reduce headache symptoms. The main chemical component of peppermint, menthol, is also a natural decongestant, and may help relieve sinus headaches or headaches associated with colds or sinus infections.
Acne
Because the harsh chemicals in most commercial acne medications can over-dry the skin, try a natural homemade acne treatment. Soak ground, dried mint leaves in a mixture of half lemon juice and water overnight. Apply this daily to clean, dry skin. The acid in the lemon juice helps to kill the bacteria that cause pimples, while the vitamin C nourishes the skin. Mint is also a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory that helps reduce inflammation caused by acne. If the lemon juice is too drying, dilute the mixture with extra water.
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