Reflexes are our body's way of alerting us to possible irritants or danger. Reflexes kick into gear when we swallow something that tastes bad or is too large to fit in our esophogus, therefore activating what is known as our gag reflex. Bodily reflex is activated when there is danger of getting hit, falling, bit or stung. All of these make our muscles involuntarily move or twitch to help ward off the aggravation or prepare ourselves for the coming consequences. Sometimes our reflexes may not be up to par due to medical reasons, and some herbs hold the key to helping regain control over them.
Bitter Herbs
Bitter herbs such as Chamomile, Rue, Yarrow (also known as Arrowroot) and White Horehound are excellent for muscle spasm and digestive reflex. These herbs are called bitter because of a natural chemical and hormonal compound that gives these plants a bitter taste. The bitter taste triggers the taste buds, sending electric signal to the brain to brace the mouth and stomach for onslaught. Bitter herbs can improve gag reflex and digestive reflex to properly swallow, process and break down food by triggering your muscles to contract, causing reflex action.
Respiratory Herbs
Respiratory reflexes, such as coughing and clearing of the throat, provide temporary relief of congestion and keep the lungs free of debris and pollutants such as smoke. According to Mary Ann Copson, a certified licensed nutritionist; certified holistic health practitioner; brain chemistry profile clinician; and a health, wellness and lifestyle coach, sometimes these reflexes can be affected by asthma, allergies and bronchitis.
Plantain, chickweed and violet are wonderful in relieving problems associated with respiratory reflexes. They soothe irritation and calm excessive coughing reflex, especially when the cough is non productive and causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes and lungs. Horehound, hyssop and thyme are helpful when your respiratory reflexes are not working normally and coughing or clearing is difficult by encouraging expulsion of mucous via respiratory reflex.
Joint Reflex Herbs
Herbs such as Gotu Kola and ginseng are ideal for athletes who rely on their joints and muscles daily. These herbs improve reflexes of the joints to prevent damage and help heal existent damage. They promote proper reflexes by acting on nerve and brain cells, helping in the formation and development of these cells, and increasing electrical impulses to the joints and muscles allowing for proper movement and natural safeguarding abilities. This property is beneficial to those with limited movement and reflexes such as fibromialgia patients and those suffering the effects of bursitis. According to Isabell Shipard, a professional herbalist, gotu kola has been responsible for increased reflex ability in sufferers of arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome as well.
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