2015-10-07 23:19:15

There are literally thousands of herbs that are remedies for anything from leg cramps to migraine headaches. There are also wonderful herbs that improve anxiety, sleeplessness, and stress and are a great deal safer than some over-the-counter drugs

Chamomile

This herb calms the mind and the body from stress and anxiety. Used for thousands of years, studies have shown Chamomile reacts as a mild sedative for promoting sleep. This plant is considered safe for children who suffer from high anxiety. Where lower doses relieve anxiety, higher doses bring about restful sleep.

Combined with other herbs to produce many health benefits, it is probably best known as an ingredient in herbal teas. To make the tea, simply steep a chamomile tea bag or flower in hot water for 10 minutes and drink. This herb is also a popular ingredient in other drinks and foods.

Chamomile Flowers

Chamomile has been shown to relieve upset stomachs, nausea, heartburn, and vomiting. Some research has shown results in helping various skin inflictions and helping to heal wounds.

Side Effects:

  • Most research has shown Chamomile a safe herb. It can cause drowsiness, and possible vomiting if taken in high levels. Chamomile is a member of the daisy family. If you are allergic to celery, ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, and marigolds, you might want to stay away from it. Findings of allergic reactions are actually very rare.

  • You should consult with your doctor if you have certain health problems. A chemical in Chamomile called coumarin can cause mild blood thinning. If you are planning surgery, you should stop using this herb two weeks before your scheduled surgery.

  • If you are taking any drugs, check with your doctor to make sure Chamomile will not interact with these drugs. This herb also interacts with other herbs such as Ginkgo biloba, Garlic, Saw paletto, St Johns wort, and Valerian.

  • For more detials on this herb, click here.

    Catnip

    Although most cat lovers think of catnip as the most cherished herb among their feline friends, it's actually a great remedy against anxiety for humans too. Catnip is a member of the mint family, and also alleviates stomach cramps, irritations, and various spasms. It can help ease insomnia, increase your appetite, relieve muscular tension, and headaches.

    Along with helping with insomnia, anxiety and migraines, catnip helps with upper respiratory infections such as the flu, bronchitis, hives, colic, gas, and fevers. For women who suffer from delayed menstruation, catnip will help get you back on track. Hemorrhoids, swelling, and arthritis are relieved by using a compress of catnip.

    Catnip Flower

    Side Effects

  • Catnip appears to be safe for adults but, unsafe if smoked or taken in high doses. High doses can cause headaches, vomiting, or an overall sick feeling. There is not enough information available regarding the safety of catnip applied directly to skin.

  • Some research shows catnip can stimulate the uterus, causing miscarriage in pregnant women, and possible effects for women nursing. Therefore, both should stay away from from this herb.

  • Women suffering from heavy menstrual cycles should avoid it too, as catnip could make it worse. Women with Pelvic Inflammatory Disease should steer clear, as catnip will cause menstruation.

  • Mixed with anesthesia, and other drugs involved in surgery, catnip can lead to complications, and therefore should be avoided for two weeks before your surgery.

  • For more information, click here.

    Motherwort

    Motherwort is a plant that has medicinal benefits in the portion that grows above the ground. It treats menstrual discomforts, and is favored by pregnant women to alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension during pregnancy.

    Motherwort also lowers blood pressure, alleviates heart palpitations, and causes calmness. This herb is used for irregular heartbeat, heart failure, increased heart beats, and other heart conditions. It has also shown to be effective with intestinal gas, and over-active thyroids.

    This herb may slow down heart beats, and thin blood, stimulate uterine tones, and blood flow. Some people use motherwort topically for shingles and other itching conditions.

    Motherwort Plant

    Side Effects

  • There is not enough information regarding side effects so if you are pregnant or nursing, you might want to avoid this herb.

  • If you have any medical treatments for any form of heart condition, consult with your doctor before proceeding with this herb.

  • If surgery is in your plans, stop using this herb two weeks before surgery.

  • For more information, click here.

    Skullcap

    Skullcap is an herb used widely as a tonic, sedative, and anti-inflammatory. Its soothing properties alleviate muscle cramps and twitching, and it works well for restless leg syndrome and epilepsy.

    The most popular use among people is for the treatment of insomnia, restlessness, and depression. It should only be used for depression that is mild or when its use has been approved by your doctor. An herb alone is not going to alleviate severe depression, and should not be used for that purpose. It should not be used by pregnant women.

    There are different species of skullcap, and therefore it should be run past your doctor before using it for medicinal purposes. Many labels do not list all the species, and as they have different chemicals, there should be concern regarding interchangeability.

    The leading chemicals in skullcap may possibly alleviate swelling, but will also cause drowsiness. There is not enough information or enough studies to state whether skullcap is safe to take for medical conditions.

    There is not enough information regarding skullcap for pregnant or nursing women, so stay away.

    Always consult with your doctor, and if surgery is planned, stop taking this herb two weeks before surgery.

    Skullcap Plant

    In Conclusion

    Herbs are made up of chemical components, and should never be considered as harmless just because they are natural. If you have various allergies, medical conditions, or concerns, always check with your doctor before taking any herbs.

    There are some herbs that are safe for both, adults and children when used properly, by following directions as well as seeing a physician, before taking anything.


    Note: Before trying or taking anything, such as mentioned above, make sure to consult with a doctor before doing so. To read about U.S. Food and Drug Administration, click click here.

    Different herbs shown used for as Herbal Remedies

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