Discover 9 healing herbs that are wonderful when used as part of your holistic health care. Learn the herbal secrets. Make your own all natural immunity boosting home remedies! Regardless of where you live, whether in tropical climates or arctic planes, you at some time, will come into contact with flu and the common cold.
Most of you, if fit and well, probably focus your concern on the health and well being of others in your life. Your thoughts go to the young children, elderly relatives, grumbling teens or grown adults. It is important to remember that the best way to ensure you remain able to care and protect your loved ones, is by ensuring you first care and protect yourself. This is easy.
You can care for yourself and your loved ones by developing a holistic health care program. Whether you want better overall health, are looking for natural skin care solutions or seeking a boost to immunity all round! By adding these home remedies made with 9 herbs you are providing your family with incredible immunity boosting goodness.
Your immune system is amazing. It protects you 24 – 7. Every minute of the day and night your immunity battles the foreign invaders that otherwise would be the cause of coughs, colds and seasonal sniffles. Not only does it ward off everyday illnesses, your immunity is the body’s only defense against more nasty, and potentially deadly diseases.
Things like the Bird Flu, or H1N1 flu, and almost every other disease causing bacteria and virus. It is an amazing gift. And one you must protect! Your daily habits, including the foods you eat and your exercise and sleep routines, have a significant effect on your immune function.
How Home Remedies Can Protect Your Immune System!
Herbal remedies are an easy and effective way for you to boost your immune system. The nutrients, vitamins and minerals aide your body by providing the energy and resources required for healing. This is how you recover from injury and illness.
Holistic Health treatments are often delivered as combinations. Some combine modern medicine and complimentary therapies, others combine a number of alternative medicines. Put simply it is the combination of various treatments which specifically target a health related condition. The treatment offers the best solution for restoring optimal health.
When using healing herbs I always recommend using fresh whenever possible. Why not get adventurous and grow them yourself? If getting fresh herbs is not possible you can use the dried variety. Just ensure you get them from a trusted and reputable supplement store or online retailer.
9 Healing Herbs For A Holistic Health Immunity Boost!
Number 1 Is Nettle Leaf
Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica), commonly known as stinging nettle, has been a cornerstone in traditional medicine for centuries because of its impressive nutrient profile and range of health benefits. This common garden weed is celebrated among naturopaths and herbalists, who recognize it as one of the most potent healing herbs available. By combining ancient wisdom with contemporary research, nettle leaf continues to support overall wellness in a modern context.
Anti-inflammatory Effects of Nettle Leaf
- Reduces Inflammation: Nettle leaf contains compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols that have potent anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases.
- Joint Pain Relief: Nettle leaf has been used traditionally as healing herbs to alleviate joint pain, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis. It can be consumed as tea or applied topically to the affected area.
- A study published in the publication “Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine” 1Urtica dioica-Derived Phytochemicals for Pharmacological and Therapeutic Applicationshighlights nettle’s potential to reduce arthritis-related inflammation.
Urinary Health
- Diuretic Properties: Nettle leaf acts as a diuretic, helping to increase urine production and flush out toxins from the urinary tract. This can be beneficial for people with urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney stones.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Nettle root, in particular, is used to manage symptoms of BPH, a condition that affects the prostate gland in men, leading to urinary difficulties.
Allergy Relief
- Antihistamine Effect: Nettle leaf is one of the healing herbs that have natural antihistamine properties. This helps alleviate symptoms of hay fever and other allergic conditions. It may reduce the body’s histamine production, which is responsible for allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion.
Nutrient Dense
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nettle leaf is a good source of vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients support overall health, including immune function, bone health, and energy production.
- Iron and Anemia: The high iron content in nettle leaf makes it beneficial for people with anemia or those at risk of developing iron deficiency.
“Nettle is a powerhouse of antioxidants,” says Dr Andrew Weil, renowned integrative medicine expert, saying “so perfect for those looking to support their overall wellness naturally.”
Blood Sugar Control – Nettle Leaf
- Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies suggest that healing herbs such as nettle leaf may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
Cardiovascular Health
- Supports Heart Health: Nettle leaf’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help protect the heart and blood vessels. Additionally, its ability to lower blood pressure and improve circulation can contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
Skin Health
- Treats Skin Conditions: These healing herbs can be used both internally and externally to treat various skin conditions, such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties help soothe irritated skin and promote healing.
Hair and Scalp Health
- Promotes Hair Growth: Nettle leaf is often used in hair care for its ability to stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health. It can reduce dandruff, prevent hair loss, and enhance hair strength and shine.
Healing Herbs for Digestive Health
- Aids Digestion: Nettle leaf can support digestive health by promoting bile production and easing digestive discomfort. It can help with conditions like indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
Pretty Perfect considering most people consider Nettle a weed!
Nettle Leaf is one of the best herbs for health and #healing! Drinking Nettle Leaf tea can ease arthritis and boost your #immunity! Do it with herbs.Please take a minute to support us, and share this with the people you loveThe method I recommend for using nettle leaf as a healing herb is not as bad as it may seem. It is also absolutely delicious!
Make yourself a nourishing nettle leaf tea! To prepare take a handful of nettle leaves. Be careful and wear gloves when handling this herb. We don’t want nettle stings or an itchy rash to dampen your enthusiasm!
Place the nettle leaf and one cup of boiling water into a small saucepan and simmer very gently for 5 mins. In the last 1-2 minutes add a small bunch (2 Tbsp) of raspberry leaf, Alfalfa and Peppermint.
Drain the herbs and enjoy this powerful healing tea. It is exceptionally good for you, even if fluorescent green! Making this tea provides potent immune supporting and prevents all sorts of seasonal illnesses.
Number 2 – Elderberry Healing Herbs.
Elderberry is well known for supporting our body to heal and regain energy. It is especially good for those suffering with flu. Elderberry from the Sambucus nigra species, is renowned for its health benefits, especially in supporting the immune system. Here’s why elderberry is one of our top healing herbs:
1. Immune System Support
- Rich in Antioxidants: Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and support the immune system.
- Stimulates Immune Response: Elderberry has been shown to enhance the body’s immune response by increasing the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help regulate the immune system.
2. Healing Herbs for Cold and Flu Relief
- Reduction in Symptoms: Elderberry is one of the healing herbs that can reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. Studies suggest that taking elderberry extract can shorten the duration of these illnesses by several days.
- Antiviral Properties: Elderberry has antiviral effects, particularly against influenza viruses. It helps prevent the virus from replicating and entering human cells, thereby reducing the severity of an infection.
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects
- Elderberry healing herbs contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is beneficial in managing conditions that are characterized by chronic inflammation.
4. Heart Health Healing Herbs
- Cholesterol Regulation: Elderberries support the body to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which contributes to better heart health.
- Blood Pressure: Some studies suggest that elderberry can help reduce blood pressure due to its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to improve blood vessel function.
5. Skin Health
- Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants in these healing herbs help protect the skin from oxidative damage, which can reduce signs of aging.
- Anti-microbial Properties: Elderberry’s anti-microbial effects can also help in treating acne and other skin conditions.
6. Digestive Health
- Elderberry is a good source of dietary fiber, which can support digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
7. Support for Upper Respiratory Health
- One of the healing herbs traditionally used to support respiratory health, helping to clear mucus and alleviate symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections.
If you wish to stock up on Elderberry you can find good commercially made syrups at most holistic health or herbal stores. But why buy it? Much better to save that money and make your own. You will have the satisfaction of knowing every ingredient that went into the mix! And your family will know it was brewed with love and care!
Ingredients
1 cup elderberries- 4 cup water
- 3 tbsp ginger root
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- ½ tsp clove
- 1 cup honey
Instructions
- In a medium sized saucepan add the 4 cups water, 1 cup elderberries, 3 tbsp ginger root, 1 tsp cinnamon powder and 1/2 tsp clove. Stir gently and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer very gently. Simmer for 45 minutes to an hour or until the liquid has reduced by around half. Remove from heat and let cool until lukewarm.
- Using a wooden spoon, or large flat spoon, mash the berries against the sides of the saucepan to release as much of the berry juices.
- Pour the liquid through a cheesecloth or strainer into a sterilized glass jar or bottle. The container must be sealable. When the syrup is cool add the 1 cup honey and shake well. Store in the fridge.
Notes
- Standard daily health dose is 1 tsp for children and 1 tbsp for adults.
- For flu and cold – take the standard dose every 3 hours until symptoms subside.
YOUR RECIPE NOTES:
Nutrition
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Number 3 – Ginger For Holistic Health
I know a lot of people will be be saying, “Ginger is a Spice and not a Herb! And they would be correct. But as spicy as it may be it becomes one of our honorary healing herbs today. This is due to the incredible health giving and restoring nutrients it provides us.
Ginger is best when the remedy is made from 2 different preparations. This makes exceptionally effective for natural healing and aiding recovery from illness.
Always use fresh ginger root. If you cannot get the fresh root ginger it is possible to get organic extracts. They are becoming more readily available in most good health food stores. Beware though 1 drop of extract is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root. It’s strong! Widely known for being excellent for soothing upset stomachs. Ginger also reduces, and prevents, nausea.
Ginger is an antibacterial, a powerful antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory and has immunity boosting antiviral properties! Therefore it is a must include for including within our home remedies. This remedy is also taken in the form of a tea, and includes both forms of the ginger.
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 Mins
Cook Time 10 Mins
Home Health Ginger Tea
Ingredients
3 Inches Fresh Root Ginger
2 cups of water
Natural Honey – Optional
Lemon Slices – Optional
Directions
1) First cut a piece of the whole ginger root – approximately 2 inches.
2) Slice this piece of ginger root into small slivers. About the size of small match sticks. Do not peel the Ginger.
3) Place the ginger slices into a small saucepan and add 2 cups of boiling water.
4) Cover with a lid and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
5) While your ginger match sticks are releasing their goodness into the water cut another piece of ginger root. About 1/2 an inch.
6) Using a very fine grater, or if you do not have one, a pestle and mortar, grate or grind this 1/2 inch into a fine ginger paste. Try to do it directly into a drinking mug so you do not lose any of the juices.
7) Now strain off the ginger slices that have been steeping. You want to save the water and discard the ginger match sticks.
8) Pour the ginger infused water into your drinking mug which contains your freshly grated ginger juices.
9) Stir your ginger tea and drink.
10) If you find the ginger tea overwhelming add a teaspoon of natural honey, or slices of fresh lemon, or both. This will provide additional flavors and add some sweetness.
11) Take at least twice per day as an immunity booster or, if treating congestion, every 4 hours until symptoms subside.
This healing herbs ginger tea is excellent for anyone suffering from acute sinusitis or congestion. Ginger is also excellent as a holistic health treatment for fever and headache
Number 4 Of The Healing Herbs Is Yarrow
Yarrow is one of the best of the healing herbs when combating flu or fever.
When taken as a tea as the symptoms of illness begin to appear the Yarrow will help reduce symptoms. Many find that it prevents the illness from taking hold and symptoms clear within 24 hours. Yarrow is excellent for treating skin related infections, for soothing and calming hives and rashes and is a natural remedy for fighting bacterial infections.
Like ginger it acts as a decongestant. It has a drying effect on mucous making it a great choice of natural cure for colds, coughs and sinus infection. Yarrow is also especially good for fighting illness that includes running a fever.
This is where Yarrow reacts differently when compared to use for mucous infections. Rather than having a drying effect, when used as a treatment for fever its properties actually induce perspiration. It may not sound great but the act of sweating helps rid the body of toxins. This requires that you also monitor your fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Yarrow is naturally very bitter. I find that adding some fresh peppermint and stevia leaves helps a lot. It adds a natural sweetness and a refreshing after taste to your herbal teas. This makes it far more appetizing, especially if you are trying to give it to children. Yarrow tea is an excellent aide for cleansing the liver and kidneys and supports the endocrine system.
To make Yarrow Tea you will need 1 Sprig of Yarrow (Flowers and Stem), 5 peppermint leaves (or spearmint) and 5-6 stevia leaves. You can also add licorice if you like the taste.
Add the herbs to a small saucepan and cover with water (about 1 – 1.5 cups). Slowly bring to a gentle simmer. Once the water reaches simmering point, not boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Cover and let it steep for 20 minutes.
Strain the liquid and discard the herbs. Sip the natural herbal tea slowly! Enjoy!
Number 5 Of Our Home Remedies Is Chamomile
An absolute gem in the healing herbs for good health count down. Chamomile calms the nerves, aides sleep and reduces inflammation and fever. A little known is the fact that Chamomile is a wonderful natural home remedy for clearing infection. While its active properties are potent on infection, the chamomile remains mild and gentle on our skin.
This makes it one of the best healing herbs for infections that occur in regions of sensitive skin, such as the eyes, ears, groin etc. Chamomile is an excellent choice when treating infants or children. It is gentle, safe and effective! In fact Chamomile can be used to relieve conjunctivitis, or any eye infection. Simply soak a chamomile tea bag in warm water, or use one that was recently used to make a freshly brewed drinking mug!
Ensure it is not too hot and place the tea bag over the eye. Treat the infection by leaving the teabag in place for 15 minutes every 2 hours. Make sure you use a new bag for each treatment and dispose of the used bag to prevent further infection. Usually the conjunctivitis will be gone within 24 hours.
Chamomile is a brilliant choice because, unlike some of our remedies, it also tastes great. Definitely a top contender for getting our healing herbs and remedies into children or fussy adults! Chamomile as a hot tea is excellent for treating flu and fever. It is highly effective for helping to regulate hormones and excellent for the skin. Chamomile is wonderful in promoting a good nights sleep.
Number 6 – Peppermint For Holistic Health.
Peppermint is a wonderful treatment for digestive disturbances as well as aiding in the lowering of fever. Widely recognized for its ability to support digestive health, here’s how it works:
- Relaxation of the Digestive Tract Muscles: Peppermint contains menthol, which has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. This relaxation can help reduce spasms and cramping, which are common causes of discomfort in digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Reduction of Bloating and Gas: Peppermint is one of the healing herbs that reduce the formation of gas in the intestines. By relaxing the muscles in the gut, peppermint oil can help relieve bloating and gas, making it a common remedy for these symptoms.
- Soothing the Stomach Lining: Peppermint has anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe the stomach lining and reduce irritation. This can be particularly helpful for people who experience nausea or other forms of stomach discomfort.
- Stimulation of Bile Production: Peppermint oil stimulates the flow of bile, which is crucial for the digestion of fats. Improved bile flow can enhance overall digestion, particularly after consuming fatty meals.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Peppermint also has antimicrobial properties, which can help balance the gut microbiome and reduce the presence of harmful bacteria that may contribute to digestive issues.
Peppermint can be prepared in the same way as Yarrow. It makes a truly refreshing and healing herbal tea.
To complement the treating of fever mash 1 large handful of peppermint leaves and stalks into 1/2 cup of olive oil. Rub this mix on the skin. It has an instant cooling effect which helps to bring a high fever down. Make sure you avoid the eyes! Peppermint is antimicrobial and antiviral so is highly beneficial for keeping our immune system healthy! Peppermint is one of the best healing herbs to use in a tea when children are ill.
Of note: For those who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux, stick to one cup per day. More than that and peppermint may aggravate your symptoms.
Number 7 – Catnip!
It may sound strange but Catnip has, for many centuries, been used as a holistic health cold and flu remedy. It is another of our healing herbs that can be used when trying to settle the stomach.
Like others it is normally taken as a tea. Prepare it as you would the Yarrow or Peppermint. The specific benefit of Catnip is its mild sedative properties. Safe to use because it is extremely mild, yet strong enough to bring about a sense of calm and relaxation.
Extremely useful as it induces sleep which allows our body time to rest, recoup and repair.
Number 8 – The Red Clover!
Another of our fantastic healing herbs, Red Clover is packed with with natural healing goodness. It is prized as a health remedy because of the very high levels of nutrients it contains. Red Clover is mostly used in hormonal treatment preparations and for conditions where purifying the blood is needed.
It is an excellent choice for anyone suffering an illness that deprives them of sleep. We know if we wish to boost and maintain an excellent immune system we require being in good health. The only way we can maintain good physical and emotional health is by ensuring we have regular periods of relaxation and get adequate restful sleep.
In the same way we prepare Yarrow we prepare Red Clover. It needs to be steeped in hot water. However unlike the other remedies it can taken as a hot or cold tea. Red clover has a bitter taste so you can sweeten it with a little honey. You could also add the Red Clover liquid to any of the other sweeter healing herbal teas such as the chamomile or peppermint tea.
Number 9 – Echinacea (healing Herbs)
Echinacea should generally be used as often but only as a short term remedy because of its Herbal Immunostimulant properties. Immunostimulants are used for the treatment of acute infection because, as the name implies, they stimulate white blood cell activity.
By stimulating our white blood cells the Echinacea helps our body resist and fight infection during the initial stages of illness. It is also useful as a longer term treatment if dealing with harder to clear infections and disease.
A truly impressive herb. Research has proven that Echinacea is effective not only for holding off colds and flu but also for treating a number of more serious medical conditions. Medical News Today lists Echinacea as being effective for treating:
- genital herpes
- gum diseases
- malaria
- rheumatoid arthritis
- septicemia – an infection of the bloodstream
- streptococcus infection
- syphilis
- tonsillitis
- typhoid
- urinary tract infection, and
- vaginal yeast infections
Echinacea, like most immunostimulants, is fast acting. However the impact it has on our white blood cells is only short lived. This means we need to take Echinacea at more frequent intervals if it is to remain effective.
Note: if you suffer from a long term chronic illness or take regular prescription medication it is advisable to consult your doctor before starting any supplements, whether herbal or not.
All treatments in this post are safe to use and widely accepted for their health giving properties. However it is always a possibility that there could be interaction with pharmaceuticals. A discussion with your health professional is always advised and will give you peace of mind.
Should you wish to ask questions or make any comment please do so in the comments section below. You can also contact me directly using this link. Do you know of other natural remedies that use healing herbs? Have you tried any of these? Please do let us know.
References
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Delicious recipe, this syrup is gorgeous