Natural Remedies For Common Ailments

People have long relied on herbal remedies to address ailments like colds and upset stomachs. Some, like Kava, can even help relieve anxiety but may cause liver damage if taken too often.

Modern medicines often originate in plants or herbs; however, being natural doesn’t automatically translate to being safe – herbal remedies don’t receive as strict regulations as medications do.

Slippery Elm

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra or Ulmus fulva) trees have long been revered in North America as herbal medicines, due to their abundance of mucilage – which when mixed with water transforms into a soothing gel that coats and soothes mouth, throat, stomach, intestines while simultaneously acting as an astringent and antiseptic agent. Furthermore, they contain numerous antioxidants, such as vitamins C and B.

Slippery elm benefits include soothing sore throats, relieving digestive disorder symptoms and alleviating coughs. In addition, it can treat gout, rheumatism, cold sores, boils and abscesses as well as reduce prostate inflammation and swelling.

Studies suggest that slippery elm may help improve digestive tract health and alleviate symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; however, further research needs to be completed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. As the mucilage present in slippery elm can interfere with certain medications’ absorption processes, it should be taken two hours before or after taking other herbs or supplements.

Echinacea

Echinacea plant, popularly known for its colorful petals as Echinacea in North American herbalism, has enjoyed increasing awareness and use across the globe as more people realize its many uses and advantages. Echinacea has long been recognized for preventing and treating cold symptoms; it also boasts some remarkable other effects.

Scientists believe echinacea stimulates the immune system, helping your body fight infections more effectively. Some research indicates it could even shorten duration and symptoms such as sore throat (pharyngitis), coughing and fever.

Studies have also suggested that echinacea could enhance cancer treatments and mitigate side effects from certain medications, including immunosuppressants used after organ transplants to prevent rejection by the immune system. To reap maximum effectiveness from using echinacea extracts it’s crucial to use high-quality products; look for those that contain guaranteed active compounds potency and effectiveness; avoid those containing added ingredients like selenium or lead; don’t be misled by labels claiming “standardized,” as that doesn’t guarantee accurate labeling accuracy!

Peppermint

Peppermint oil contains analgesic properties that can help ease muscle and joint discomfort. You can take peppermint in form of tea, aromatherapy diffuser, topical application or apply topically onto wrists and temples. Furthermore, peppermint has also been demonstrated to decrease pain levels as well as blood lactate levels in athletes.

Peppermint can soothe an upset stomach, aid in alleviating indigestion and eliminate intestinal gas. Peppermint relaxes muscles that cause heartburn while increasing bile flow – both important for digesting fats efficiently. However, be careful if you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease or have a hiatal hernia as peppermint could loosen the sphincter between stomach and esophagus, worsening symptoms associated with GERD.

Peppermint may interact with medications. Always inform your physician and pharmacist of all of the medicines taken, including herbal and vitamin supplements, and vitamins you are taking (including any herbal/health practitioners you consult before taking this herb), especially any antidepressants, blood pressure meds, or sedatives that you take. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions. Consult a qualified herbal/health practitioner prior to using peppermint as it could interact with these treatments and be harmful.

Honey

Honey has long been used as a natural remedy to heal wounds and burns, prevent infections, ease cold and flu symptoms and boost the immune system. Honey contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes and antibacterial properties while its polyphenols have been shown to prevent biological reactive oxygen species that contribute to premature aging and neurotoxicity.

Studies have also demonstrated the beneficial properties of honey for fighting off Shigella, Listeria monocytogenes and Staph aureus bacteria growth as well as protecting fruits and vegetables against oxidative damage and browning due to exposure to oxygen, thus maintaining their quality and preserving their freshness.

Honey has antimicrobial and antibiotic properties that make it an excellent ingredient in beauty products to improve skin health and reduce acne inflammation, while its humectant and emollient properties help hydrate dry skin for soft, suppleness, as well as release antiseptic hydrogen peroxide which helps treat cuts, bruises, burns and infections. Honey can even help relieve dental care related gingivitis symptoms.