For thousands of years people have enjoyed the rejuvenating effects of herbs. There are hundreds of ways you can benefit from the healing possibilities of herbs, from planting an herb garden and experimenting with your harvest in the kitchen to browsing the herbal teas at your grocery store and selecting a few to sample. Herbal supplements may be useful to treat specific conditions. Only use supplements or large doses of natural herbs under the supervision of your doctor.
Herbs for the Bath
A nightly soak in hot water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil stimulates the body and fights a stuffy nose. Rose petal baths act as an astringent and lightly perfume your skin. Comfrey conditions skin, soothes sore muscles and helps heal wounds. Blend peppermint leaves with thyme and marjoram for an antiseptic effect. To make an herbal bath, tie a quarter cup of herbs in a small piece of cheesecloth and let them steep in the hot water for 15 minutes.
Herbs for Tea
Ginger tea can relieve nausea and mitigate motion sickness. Lemon verbena and peppermint can refresh you when you are sluggish. Licorice teas may soothe the nerves of women who suffer from the effects of premenstrual syndrome. Lemon juice squeezed into plain warm water or any herbal tea supports immune system functioning by giving you a dose of vitamin C. Add lime juice and honey to ginger tea and ice it for a cool summer treat. Don't add any supplement to your regimen, however, without consulting your physician.
Herbs for Cooking
Add spicy cayenne pepper to vegetable stews and protein dishes to awaken your palette. Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over scrambled eggs, grilled meats or tofu or any vegetable dish for a fresh taste contrast that adds vitamin A and antioxidants. Cinnamon and anise make bean, meat and pumpkin stews smell autumnal; they can also warm you, increasing circulation and revivifying your system. Steep 40 cloves with 40 teaspoons of sugar and a whole orange in a bottle of white rum for 40 days to create a pungent cordial that activates your appetite.
Aromatherapy: Candles, Sachets and Potpourri
Aromatherapy can be an effective way to awaken the senses and reduce stress. Place a lavender sachet under your pillow to calm frayed nerves at the end of the day and help restore equilibrium. Mix dried aromatic flower petals, such as roses and marigolds, to create potpourri that stimulates memories of gardening while you are enjoying the evening newspaper. Burn pine candles for a scent that evokes a revitalizing walk in the forest.
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