April 3, 2010

Herbs | Natural Herbal Cures

A variety of ailments have been effectively managed for centuries with the use of herbs. The below guide discusses the top ten safe herbal cures. They are easily found in your local health food store.

Goldenseal is rich in antibiotic properties. Prepared as a tea, it is effective at fighting mild infection. Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of powdered goldenseal root for each cup of water. To benefit from goldenseal’s healing properties, consume up to 2 cups of this tea daily.

Chamomile is a wonderful herb that can calm stomach distress, fight infection, speed the healing process, prevent ulcers and encourage relaxation. Chamomile tea bags can be purchased pre-made or you can prepare your own tea by adding 2-3 teaspoons of chamomile per each cup of water. Steep for between 10 and 20 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups each day.

Garlic in its raw form is a natural antibiotic and anti-viral that is quite powerful. Some effective uses are reduction of cholesterol and the prevention of the formation of blood clots. It is also great for general good health. To benefit daily from garlic, use liberally in the preparation of foods. It adds a distinct flavor to any dish. To prepare a tea, steep six cloves of garlic per one cup of cool water for up to 6 hours.

Slipper Elm Bark aids sore throats, cough and upset stomach. Many commercial throat lozenges and cough drops contain this wonderful herb. It is also effectively used in a tea form. Add 1-3 teaspoons per cup of hot water. Steep the tea for 10 minutes. Enjoy up to 3 cups per day.

Ginseng can protect against harmful substances and toxins that otherwise may harm the liver. Ginseng is also known to build the immune system and increase stamina. It has actually been shown in research to increase the sexual activity of animals. Ginseng can be found in tinctures, capsules, tablets and teas. Follow package instructions suggested for the product you use.

Dandelion is effective against the discomforts of premenstrual syndrome. It is also anti-inflammatory. To prepare as a tea, steep half of an ounce of dried dandelion leaf for each cup of warm water for 10 minutes and strain prior to drinking. Up to 3 cups per day is recommended.

Feverfew has been shown via research that it is effective for use against migraine headache. In capsule or pill form, take 85 mg per day. As a tea, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for each cup of water and steep for 10 minutes. Strain prior to drinking. Consume up to 2 cups each day.

Raspberry leaf is widely used for uterus irritation (i.e., prevention of miscarriage and morning sickness). Steep 1-2 teaspoons of raspberry leaf per each cup of water for 10 minutes. Enjoy up to 3 cups per day.

Spearmint and Peppermint are effectively used against nausea and indigestion. As a tea, add 2 teaspoons of dried herb (or 1 teaspoon of fresh mint) per cup of tea. Let steep for 10 minutes and enjoy up to 3 cups each day. Mint also makes a revitalizing bath. Place several handfuls of leaves (fresh or dried) into a cloth bag. In the tub, run the bag under warm water and relax.

Ginger can prevent blood clots and therefore reduce the risk of heart attacks. Ginger has also been used effectively against motion sickness. Prepare a ginger tea by adding 2 teaspoons of grated ginger for each cup of hot water. Steep the tea for 10 minutes and consume up to 3 times each day.

When used properly, an herbal cure can be a safe, effective remedy. Seek the assistance of a qualified medical professional when dealing with serious illness.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, I completely changed my lifestyle, dropped almost 50 pounds and began a regimen of complementary treatments to support my immune system and get my body healthy again. It is one year later and I am feeling great. Please visit my website. There you will find lots of total cleanse information and health tips.