Popular herbs for health and well-beeing

In this article, I would like to provide information about some of the most popular herbs for health and well-being. For most people, herbal medicine provides a gentle and effective way of maintaining health and relieving symptoms. There are some situations, however, where you may need to use herbal medicines with extra caution. You should therefore talk with your health professional before using any herbal medicine if you:

• Are pregnant
• Are breastfeeding
• Are taking any other medicines ( prescription, herbal or over the counter)
• Have any major health condition (such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, heart disease or HIV/AIDS)

Agrimony Agrimonia eupatoria

Agrimony counters indigestion, diarrhea, intestinal disorders, musous colitis and appendicitis. This herb stimulates the flow of digestive juices, facilitates liver secretions, promotes assimilation of food, helps prevent diabetes and is an excellent blood cleanser. Agrimony is beneficial for inflammation of the throat and mouth, tonsillitis, throat disorders, and for oral thrush or inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth. It is very useful for singers and actors: a gargle before a performance helps counters any throat irritations.

Balm mint Melissa officinalis

Balm mint has antibacterial and sedative actions. It is an excellent calming herb, ideal for nervous people, and is useful for migraines, hysteria, melancholia, tension, depression, stress and sleeplessness. Balm mint maintains the health of the digestive tract, and relives digestive tract spasms, abdominal cramps, dyspepsia, flatulence and colic. It has a toning effect on the circulatory system and counters feverish conditions.

Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Berberry is an excellent remedy for the urinary tract, as it is a strong urinary disinfectant. This herb is used to threat and relive the pain of urinary tract infections such as pyelitis, cystitis and urethritis, and in cases of gravel, stones or ulceration of the kidneys or bladder.

Bedstraw Galium alba

Taken internally, bedstraw tea is beneficial as a blood purifier and diuretic, and can be recommended for kidney disorders, thyroid gland complaints, and for the lymphatic system. External applications are beneficial for skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis, and for arthritic pain.

Birch Betula alba

Birch has many benefits for internal organs and for the skin. It is beneficial as a powerful diuretic that is capable of dissolving kidney and bladder stones. Birch destroys harmful bacteria in the kidneys and urinary tract, making it useful to treat urinary tract infections such as cystitis. Birch is also helpful for fluid retention, gout, rheumatism and arthritic pain. It can be used to reduce blood cholesterol and to stimulate the flow of bile. Birch can be used externally for acne, eczema and other skin complaints. It also promotes hair growth.

Burdock Arctium lappa

Burdock rapidly cleanses and eliminates impurities from the blood. Internally, this herb is commonly taken for skin disorders such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. It is useful in the battle against boils, scurvy and rheumatism. Externally, burdock is useful as a wash or poultice for sores, ulcers and a range of skin disorders.

Calendula Calendula officinalis

Calendula stimulates the flow of bile and acts as a valuable herb for digestive inflammations and complaints such as gastric and duodenal ulcers. This herb has a marked antifungal activity and is helpful in treating fungal infections. Calendula is also used to treat delayed menstruation and skin diseases. Externally, calendula promotes healing of varicose veins and is recommended for inflammations of the skin, external bleeding, slow healing wounds, skin ulcers, minor burns and scalds.

Chamomile Matricaria recutita

Camomile is an excellent herb for babies at teeting time or when they have ear infections, cramps or stomach aches - in fact, chamomile is helpful in any problem that causes children discomfort. In adults, chamomile is helpful for flatulence, diarrhea, stomach disorders and gastritis, menstrual disorders, neuralgic pains, insomnia and toothache. If used in a sitz bath or as an enema, chamomile also helps haemorrhoids.

Common club moss Lycopodium clavatum

Club moss tea combats gravel and colic in the urinary tract, spasmodic retention of urine (due to cramps), cystitis, and pain in the kidneys, ureters and bladder. This herb is recommended for all kinds of cramps, shortness of breath, liver complaints and chronic constipation, as well as for haemorrhoids and varicose veins. A pillow of moss applied to legs and feet will bring relief from cramp.

Cowslip Primula versi

Cowslip is an excellent sedative, making it ideal for stress-related problems. Cowslip helps to relive the pain of migraines and nervous headaches, eases tension, relaxes the nerves and encourages restful sleep. The herb is used to treat irritable dry cough and whooping cough. It can be used to counter spasms, convulsions, giddiness, cramps and joint pain. Cowslip is also considered excellent for inflamed heart muscle and in overcoming any tendency to stroke.

Cranesbill Geranium robertianum

Cranesbill is used to treat peptic ulcers and diarrhea, and is useful for controlling bleeding haemorrhoids and nosebleeds. The herb is a useful gargle for mouth ulcers, sore throats and gum infections, and is helpful as a wash for sore eyes. Applied as a douche, cranesbill is an excellent way to reduce excessive menstrual flow and excessive vaginal discharge.

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion is a bitter herb that stimulates the flow of bile, stimulates appetite and works as a mild diuretic. It is beneficial for liver and gallbladder disorders and digestive complaints, especially the incomplete digestion of fat. Dandelion increases the body's secretion of bile by over 50 percent and is helpful in managing weight problems and distributing cholesterol. Dandelion root purifies the blood by straining and filtering toxins and wastes from the bloodstream. It also improves straining and filtering toxins and wastes from the bloodstream. It also improves blood circulation. This herb also assists skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and itchy or scaly rashes.

Dead nettle Lamium alba

Dead nettle is an astringent herb that combats intestinal problems and dysentery. It is beneficial for urinary complaints such as scanty or burning urine, kidney disorders and fluid retention. Added to a bath, dead nettle soothes uterine cramps and relives boils. By working as a blood purifier, dead nettle helps to eliminate skin rashes and eczema. A compress made from the infusion is beneficial for treating ulcers and varicose veins, while a douche made from dead nettle infusion helps to counter excessive vaginal discharge and irregular or weak menstrual flow.

Dong Quai Anglelica polymorpha

Dong quai, also known as a Chinese angelica, is an ancient Chinese herb traditionally taken by women to ease symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and heavy menstrual bleeding. Dong quai contains oestrogen-like ingredients, which help to balance female hormones. Worldwide research is being undertaken on premenopausal women who take plant-based oestrogens such as dong quai to balance their low levels of oestrogen. Dong quai also acts as a blood stimulant, and is an excellent source of iron, magnesium and niacin. This herb increases blood flow to the heart, and so may benefit the cardiovascular system. Bitter compounds in dong quai also lower blood cholesterol and regulate glycogen production in the liver.

Echinacea Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea root is used for the treatment of recurrent respiratory and urinary tract infections, progressive systemic disorders such as tuberculosis, leukosis (abnormal growth of white blood cells), connective tissue disease and multiple sclerosis. When applied topically, Echinacea is used to treat surface wounds that have a poor tendency to heal. The liquid extract preparations have immue- stimulating activity-they increase the number of white blood cells and other cells that destroy substances such as bacteria, protozoa and cell debris.

Elder flower Sambucus nigra

Elder flower is a sweet-inducing herb, making it an ideal remedy for colds and influenza, as well as for chronic nasal and bronchial congestion and bronchitis. This herb is also useful for relieving rheumatic complaints. A gargle made from elder flower infusion alleviates tonsillitis and sore throats. Externally, the herb may be used as a soothing wash for burns, rashes and skin ailments. Elder flower is also beneficial for eyes: elder flower eyewash is an ideal treatment for conjunctivitis and is soothing and comforting to apply to sore eyes after a day's work.

Epilobium Epilobium parviflorum

A must for all men! Epilobium is an effective medicine for all kinds of diagnosed benign prostate disorders, and has the added benefit of having no adverse side effects. German studies have confirmed that epilobium contains the active ingredient beta-sistosterol, a plant hormone that shrinks enlarged prostates. Epilobium is a herb with exceptional long-term therapeutic effects, and should ideally be taken daily by all men over 50. Since it has an inflammation-inhibiting effect, epilobium is also useful for women who suffer from cystitis, a chronically irritated bladder, or from acute inflammation of the bladder or urethra.

Eyebright Euphrasia officinalis

The herb eyebright is named after its properties that soothe and restore the eyes. Eyebright infusion can be used externally as a lotion, poultice and eyebath for inflamed blood vessels in the eyes, inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis), conjunctivitis, weeping eyes, and weak eyesight - all conditions that can be aggravated by cigarette smoke, car exhaust fumes or chemical sprays. When using eyebright as an eyebath, you should use a very weak infusion and mix it with chamomile, valerian or lady's mantle. Because of its ability to clear up mucus, eyebright can be taken as a tea for coughs and sinus congestion. Eyebright is also useful as a stomach bitter.

Fennel Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel counters flatulence, acidic stomachs, abdominal cramps, colic and spasms. This herb also helps improve digestion and appetite. Fennel is an excellent remedy for colic in babies and small children. Fennel is also used to help increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers. In this way, colicky babies can also receive the anti-colic benefits of fennel through their mother's milk - isn't Mother Nature clever!

Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum

Fenugreek seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, and are useful to encourage weight gain when recovering from illness, and for people who have no appetite. The seeds are also believed to lower cholesterol levels by assisting with cholesterol metabolism. Fenugreek is effective in treating fevers, and its ability to dissolve mucous congestion makes it a useful treatment for bronchitis and other chest conditions. It is soothing gargle for sore throats and its soothing effect is useful for treating dyspepsia and gastric disorders. These seeds contain a natural hormone similar to estrogen, which stimulates milk production in breastfeeding mothers. Mixed with hot water or hot milk, fenugreek seeds can be applied as a paste to treat abscesses, boils, carbuncles, ulcers and inflammation.

Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium

Clinical trials have shown that feverfew is an effective preventative medicine and treatment for migraines. Feverfew is also helpful for migraines associated with menstruation and for general headaches. This herb is used to relieve the inflammation and pain of arthritis, promote restful sleep, improve digestion and relieve asthma attacks. Feverfew can also be used to treat sluggish menstrual flow and congestive period pain.

Ginkgo biloba Maidenhair

Ginkgo biloba helps to widen blood vessels and increase blood flow. In particular, ginkgo promotes blood flow to the body's extremities, such as the head and feet. Ginkgo is, therefore, frequently recommended for circulation problems that result in poor eyesight, poor hearing, leg cramps, poor memory, dizziness, tinnitus, headaches and emotional instability coupled with anxiety. This herb is also useful for sinus congestion, stubborn coughs and asthma. Ginkgo is used for heart and eye diseases, to improve kidney and pancreas function, and for brain trauma resulting from accidents.

Golden rod Solidago gigantea/ Solidago virgaurea

Golden rod is most useful to counter kidney and bladder complaints, particularly kidneystones, fluid retention and bed-wetting. Its detergent action, which cleans out the bladder and kidneys, can also be used in the treatment of arthritis and eczema. Other uses for golden rod include the treatment of excessive menstrual bleeding, internal haemorrhage, diarrhea and even whooping cough. Golden rod has a soothing and calming effect if drunk at times of loss or great emotional stress.

Grape seed Vitis vinifera

Antioxidants such as grape seed can prevent the formation of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are rogue substances that attack, damage and ultimately destroy almost any material, resulting in damaged organs, vision loss and many other health problems associated with modern living and the ageing process. Free radicals are believed to attack, damage or alter human DNA, causing cell to die, mutate and possibly become cancerous. These rogue substances also alter blood fats, which may lead to heart and blood vessel disease. Leading authorities have identified grape seed to be the most powerful of all antioxidant and it is thought to be 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E. This makes grape seed one of the most potent antioxidants known.

Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn is an excellent herb for the heart. It has a toning effect on the heart, increasing its muscular action. Hawthorn is suitable for most cardiac and circulatory disorders, and can be recommended for angina, palpitations, irregular pulse, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), valvular insufficiency, angina pectoris and inflammation of the heart muscle. Hawthorn is used both as a treatment for existing heart conditions and to help prevent their development.

Horedound Marrubium vulgare

Horedound soothes a cough and is good for bronchial problems. The herb promotes sweating, and therefore helps to reduce fever. The bitter action of horedound stimulates the flow and secretion of bile from the gallbladder, thereby aiding digestion. Taken in large doses, horehound acts as a laxative. This herb may also be used externally to treat a range of skin conditions.

Horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum

Horse chestnut acts on blood vessels to increase their strength and tone. Many clinical trials have shown that horse chestnut is of great benefit for circulatory problems such as varicose veins, phlebitis (inflammation of the vein walls, which is a complication of varicose veins), foot oedema, haemorhoids and leg ulcers. Horse chestnut has been studied in considerable detail and is approved in Germany for chronic venous insufficiency, and the symptoms of this condition, which include leg pain, cramps in the calves and swollen legs.

Horsetail Equisetum arvense

Horsetail is rich in minerals, especially silica, and is recommended in anaemia and general poor health. This herb is regarded as an excellent astringent for the genital and urinary system, making it very useful in treating fluid retention, cystitis, incontinence, and bed-wetting in children. Horsetail is also used for haemorrhoids and internal bleeding. Horsetail's silica content encourages the absorption and use of calcium by the body, and so, is helpful for white spotting on fingernails, broken fingernails, lifeless hair, and for preventing fatty deposits from forming in the arteries. Externally, horsetail poultices aid the healing of wounds, ulcers and skin eruptions.

Hypericum Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum is one of mature's best herbs for the entire nervous system. This herb (also known as St John's wort) has received much medical attention and recognition, particularly for its use in mild-moderate depression and anxiety. Clinical trials have now shown that hypericum is as effective as some prescription antidepressants, but does not have the uncomfortable side effects associated with prescription products. Hypericum has traditionally been used to treat depression, neuralagia, anxiety, tension, neuralgic pain, fibrositis and sciatica. It is also recommended for speech disorders, fitful sleep and sleepwalking, menopausal problems such as uterine cramping, and neurosis in children. The calming properties of this herb make it useful in the treatment of bed-wetting, bladder troubles, diarrhea and dysentery.

Iceland moss Cetraria islandica

Icewland moss is an effective treatment for a range of bronchial conditions including respiratory congestion. Bronchitis and strhma. The herb is beneficial for kidney and bladder disorders, cystitis and gastroenteritis. Iceland moss stimulates the flow of milk in breastfeeding mothers, but should be avoided if you have inflamed breasts or nipples. Applied externally, this herb is useful for slow healing wounds.

Indian corn Zea mays

Indian corn has a very soothing effect on the urinary passages and is helpful as a reliable diuretic and weight reducer. This herb is good for the kidneys, as it neutralizes and promotes the excretion of waste products containing uric acid. Indian corn is used to combat chronic or acute cystitis, nephritis, gout and rheumatism. It is also useful for acidosis, kidney stones, renal colic, oedema, fluid in the heart, incontinence and bed-wetting. Indian corn may be used as a non-irritating enema.

Juniper berry Juniperus communis

Juniper berry is beneficial for the entire urinary system: the kidneys, bladder and urinary passages. Juniper's antiseptic properties help maintain the system's healthy functioning, eliminating excess water by promoting urine flow. This herb helps to ease digestive problems, indigestion, diarrhea and excess wind. It is also recommended to alleviate rheumatic aches and pains. Juniper should be avoided by pregnant women and people with kidney disease.

Knotgrass Polygonum aviculare

Knotgrass is a useful herb for cleansing the body's vascular, respiratory and intestinal systems. It is particularly useful in cleansing the vascular system of toxins; and is used to treat inflammation of mucous membranes in the respiratory and intestinal tracts. Knotgrass relives excess wind and biliary insufficiency. It is effective for urinary stones and gravel. As an astringent to combat bed-wetting, for diarrhea, dysentery, enteritis, haemorrhoids and heamorrhages. Knotgrass is also beneficial as a gargle for sore throats and as a douche for vaginal inflammations.

Lady's mantle Alchemilla vulgaris

Lady's mantle helps to stop bleeding and has a strengthening effect on the endometrium and uterine wall, making it an effective treatment for many problems associated with menstruatio9n and menopause. This herb is used internally for excessive menstrual bleeding and vaginal discharge; to reduce menstrual pain, and for prolonged blood loss due to menopausal or uterine fibroids. During menopause, lady's mantle relives hot flushes and anxiety symptoms. Lady's mantle tea helps to strengthen the uterus in women who are likely to miscarry, and the tea is recommended as a drink after giving birth. This herb is also recommended for vomiting, intestinal disorders and diarrhea. It may be used for mouth ulcers, laryngitis, skin disorders and inflamed wounds. Lady's mantle has a very rapid healing action and is good as a gargle after the loss or removal of teeth.

Liquorice Glycyrrhiza glabra

Liquorice is a valuable medicine for the digestive and respiratory systems. It acts as a gentle laxative and lowers stomach acid levels, thereby reliving heartburn. Liquorice heals stomach ulcers by spreading a protective gel over the stomach wall. It also ease spasms in the intestines. Liquorices's soothing, expectorant and antispasmodic properties make it a good remedy for gastritis, lung complaints, bronchial problems, coughs, hoarseness and mucous congestion. Liquorice has antibacterial properties and will reduce fevers. This herb helps stimulate the flow of bile, lowers blood cholesterol and provides relief from allergies.

Mallow Malva sylvestris

Mallow is useful in countering inflammation of mucous membranes, particularly in the bladder, gastrointestinal tract and mouth. Use this herb to treat mucus in the lung, bronchitis, coughs, hoarseness, laryngitis and tonsillitis. The tea is very valuable in the treatment of pneumonia, gravel and all kidney diseases, and is particularly beneficial for inflamed bowels. Prepare a lukewarm infusion and use it externally as a wash, for allergies of the face, for sore, inflamed eyes and for wounds or skin ulcers. Use mallow to bathe damaged hands or feet, and for vaginal irritation a mallow douche will offer relief.

Meadowsweet Pilipendula ulmaria

Meadowsweet is one of the best herbal remedies for most digestive conditions. This herb protects and soothes the body's mucous membranes by reducing acidity, making it a good remedy for gastritis, heartburn, dyspepsia and diarrhea. Medowsweet is beneficial in reducing fever and in relieving rheumatic pain in muscles and joints. This herb is also useful in the treatment of fluid retention and in bladder and kidney disorders.

Mistletoe Viscum album

Mistletoe is used to strengthen the heart and is considered to be one of the best remedies for heart and circulatory complaints. It has a steadying effect on blood pressure - whether low or high. Recommended for side-effects caused by abnormal blood pressure, such as blood rushing to the heard, dizziness, buzzing in the ears and visual defects. May be used for menopausal problems. Mistletoe has been used as a remedy for epilepsy.

Oak bark Quercus robur

Oak bark is effective in countering diarrhea, particularly if the diarrhea is a result of gastroenteritis. The herb helps to reduce fever and stops internal bleeding, making it a good remedy for nosebleeds. An oak bark infusion can be used an enema or douche for problems such as haemorrhoids or vaginal thrush. Use an infusion as a wash for sores and skin irritations, and use as a gargle or mouthwash for sore throats and gums.

Oat straw Avena sativa

Oat straw is a popular remedy for fevers, exhaustion, debilitating conditions and gastrointestinal inflammation. It is effective for problems affecting the bladder, kidney and ureters. Oat straw is recommended for sexual problems and impotence. Soaking in a bath of oat straw is very good for rheumatic problems, lumbago, shingles and other herpes infections, paralysis, liver ailments, kidney problems and gravel. Douches or enemas can be used for the treatment of bladder disorders, abdominal problems and intestinal colic.

Passionflower Passiflora incarnate

Passionflower is a gentle, natural sedative for people with nervous conditions. This herb is useful for relieving nervous tension, anxiety, insomnia, nervous headache, restlessness and irritability. Passionflower calms people with Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and hysteria. The herb combats nerve pain such as neuralgia and the pain associated with shingles. Passionflower is useful in any conditions that involve muscular spasm such as asthma, and tense, knotted muscles.

Pennywort Cantella asiatica

Pennywort has long been used in India as a remedy for leprosy and stomach disorders. Recent studies have shown that this herb is a helpful treatment for arthritis and rheumatism. Pennywort assists healing in the cells of connective tissue, especially in the sheath around blood vessels. The herb aids blood flow, particularly in the limbs, and is also regarded as a good tonic and rejuvenating remedy. Pennywort is used to treat nervous conditions such as anxiety, stress and depression. French scientists have reported that pennywort has a powerful anti-ageing effect.

Peppermint Mentha x piperita

Cooling peppermint tea is a wonderful remedy for poor digestion, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting during pregnancy, sudden pains and cramps in the stomach, tension headaches, flatulence and colic. Peppermint can be taken as a tea to relive blocked nasal passages resulting from a cold or influenza, and can also be used as an inhalation to relieve nasal congestion. This herb is a useful tonic for easing anxiety and related conditions. Fomentations bring prompt relief from itching and other skin conditions.

Pimpernel root Pimpinella saxifrage

Pimpernel root is a valuable remedy for respiratory problems such as coughs, hoarseness, bronchitis and asthma. It also makes a good gargle for sore throats and laryngitis. Pimpernel is useful for the treatment of urinary tract conditions, fluid retention, gravel and kidney stones. It is also used to treat gastric disorders, heartburn, flatulence, rheumatism and gout. Used topically, pimpernel assists wound healing.

Plantain Plantago lanceolata

Plantain has antibacterial and soothing action, and is beneficial for many respiratory conditions. Plantain acts as a gentle expectorant and soothes mucous membranes, making it ideal to treat coughs, bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. This herb is also used for diarrhea, cystitis and bleeding. Used topically, plantain has a soothing, cooling effect and can be used to treat haemorrhoids.

Raspberry Rubus idaeus

Raspberry supports, tightens and tones the ligaments of the uterus, and so, is taken to help prevent and overcome prolapsed of the uterus. It is also an effective treatment for diarrhea and excessive vaginal discharge. Raspberry is a good gargle for sore throats and is valuable in treating mouth ulcers, bleeding gums and mouth inflammations.

Red clover Trifolium pretense

Red clover contains a high concentration of iron and copper salts, which makes it a vital blood tonic as well as an excellent blood cleanser. Taken over a period of time, this herb helps improve the blood's haemoglobin levels and the size and number of blood platelets. Red clover's blood cleansing properties mean that it has many uses for conditions that affect organs of elimination - the lungs, kidney, bowel and skin. The herb has a strong antispasmodic action on whooping cough and other troublesome coughs, and is useful for asthma, hoarseness and colds. Red clover also contains oestrogen-like compounds and may be helpful in relieving menopausal symptoms. The herb has been widely investigated for its anti-tumor compounds that may play a role in preventing and or treating breast cancers. Red clover is an ideal herbal remedy for children, especially for treating eczema and other skin problems.

Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary soothes the nerves and relives headaches, insomnia, tension and mental fatigue. The herb acts as a circulatory stimulant and has a calming effect on digestion. Rosemary can be taken for flatulence and cramp-like gastro-intestinal upsets. It also stimulates liver function and the production of bile. Topical fomentations ease muscular pain, sciatica and neuralgia. Rosemary may help to prevent hair loss and premature baldness, and makes one of the best hair washes to prevent dandruff. Fosemary also makes a refreshing herbal bath.

Sage Salvia officinalis

Sage is a strong antiseptic and is particularly potent against staphylococcus infections. Used as a gargle, this antiseptic property makes sage one of the best remedies for sore throats, laryngitis, and tonsillitis and throat ulcers. Sage removes mucous from the respiratory organs and stomach, as well as relieving intestinal troubles and mild diarrhea. This herb strengthens the nerves and can be used to combat cramps, trembling limbs and nervous excitement. Sage has oestrogenic properties, making it most useful in countering night sweats and hot flushes during menopause. This herb relieves painful periods and helps to stop breast milk production in mothers who are ready to finish breastfeeding. Sage is an excellent remedy for loose and bleeding teeth and for ulcerated or receding gums.

Shepherd's purse Capsella bursa-patoris

Shepherd's purse is considered one of nature's best haemostatics (a substance that prevents or stops bleeding), and works either by constricting blood vessels or by helping blood to clot. This makes the berb beneficial for all types of bleeding conditions, either taken as a tea or used externally as a fomentation. Shepherd's purse is particularly helpful for slowing heavy menstrual bleeding, and should be taken as a tea for 7-8 days before your period is due. The herb is also used to slow postnatal bleeding. Shepherd's purse has a regulating effect on heart function and on high or low blood pressure. The astringent properties of this herb make it a useful treatment for chronic diarrhea and dysentery.

Siberian ginseng Eleutherococcus senticosus

Ginseng, "the root of life", is the most famous Chinese herb and has been used for its health benefits for around 7000 years. It is best known as a stamina-boosting herb, a tonic for the nervous systems, and as a stimulator for the immune system. Traditionally, the root was chewed by the sick to recover health, by the healthy to improve vitality and stamina, and for its aphrodisiac effects. Ginseng has a positive effect on the central nervous, cardiovascular and endocrine systems; it promotes immune function and metabolism, and has anti-stress activities. Among numerous animal studies, ginseng has demonstrated improved learning, memory and physical capability, resistance to infection and enhancement of energy. The best therapeutic application is with weak or elderly people.

Speedwell Veronica officinalis

Speedwell is an excellent blood cleanser, which has helped it earn its reputation as a cholesterol-lowering agent. Its blood cleansing properties also make speedwell a helpful herb for gastro-intestinal problems, diarrhea, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, and for skin problems such as acne, chronic eczema and wounds. Speedwell is useful for respiratory tract disorders. It stimulates liver and kidney functions, supports circulation and helps restore memory.

Stinging nettle Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle is a highly nutritive herb, rich in iron, calcium, magnesium sodium, potassium and vitamins. It is one of the most widely used herbs in the Western world. Stinging nettle's high iron content makes it the best blood-building herb for people with anaemia and other blood disorders. This herb is also an blood cleanser, and is strongly recommended for treating acne and eczema. If used regularly over the long-term, stinging nettle can be extremely helpful in managing rheumatism and arthritis. As an anti-haemorrhaging agent, stinging nettle will stop bleeding from the lungs, intestines, nose, stomach and urinary organs. It is a good remedy for the urinary tract, and will expel gravel from the bladder and increase urine flow. Stinging nettle may also be taken for allergies such as hayfever and is a good hair tonic.

St John's wort Hypericum perforatum

Please see the entry under 'Hypericum'.

St Mary's thistle Silibum marianum

St Mary's thistle is undoubtedly the best-documented pharmaceutical agent for the treatment of serious liver diseases. The herb is now widely used by the medical profession to treat alcoholic hepatitis, alcoholic fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, liver poisoning and viral hepatitis, as well as to protect the liver from the effects of liver-toxic medicines. Naturopaths also recommend St Mary's thistle as one of the main treatments for a sluggish liver.

Thyme Thymus serpyllum

Thyme is very effective for sore throats, sinus congestion, post-nasal drip and for people who use their voices professionally- singers, teachers and actors. This herb helps clear mucous congestion from the lungs and bronchial passages, and is beneficial for respiratory problems such as bronchitis and whooping cough. Thyme is also good as a tonic for stomach problems such as flatulence, gastritis and stomach cramps. It is also helps to relieve period pain.

Tormentil root Tormentil erecta

Tormentil root tea is excellent for diarrhea, flatulence, intestinal bloating and colic. Mixed with sage and chamomile, this root is a useful gargle for inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, for sore gums, tonsillitis and toothache. Topical fermentations are beneficial for haemorrhoids, slow healing wounds and external burns.

Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Valerian is a powerful natural sedative, which will not cause dependence or a 'hangover' feeling in the morning. The herb can be used as a sedative in all sorts of nervous conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, hysteria, migraines, palpitations and breathlessness. Valerian is an excellent remedy for nervous dyspepsia, stomach cramps and irritable bowel, and is also helpful for menstrual cramps.

Walnut Juglans regia

Walnut cleanses the blood and is an effective remedy for intestinal disorders and constipation. It is a tonic to the stomach and promotes hair growth. As a wash or bath additive, walnut is beneficial for rheumatism, gout, glandular swelling, dandruff, herpes, ulcers and other skin disorders.

Willow bark Salix alba

Willow bark contains salicin, which has effective pain-relieving, fever-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties. The herb is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other connective tissue disorders that involve inflammatory changes. Willow bark is good for muscular inflammation and pain, for influenza, fevers, respiratory congestion, gout and spondylitis. Topical applications assist bleeding wounds. Willow bark also has antibiotic actions.

Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood is an excellent bitter tonic for the gastric tract. Simulates appetite, gastric secretions and assists digestion. It is very useful in cases of dyspepsia, flatulence and problems of the digestive tract. Take it to expel intestinal worms. Beneficial for gallbladder complaints, colic, gallstones and hepatitis. May also be used as a nerve tonic and sedative.

Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Yarrow contains ingredients that promote blood coagulation. The herb can be used to heal internal and external wounds, to counter diarrhea and dysentery, and to relieve intestinal troubles. Yarrow regulates menstrual periods and acts as a diuretic to aid the function of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys. Through its blood cleansing action, yarrow stimulates blood renewal and has a beneficial effect on bone marrow. Douche applications will relive uterine fibroids, inflammation of the ovaries, vaginal itch and bed-wetting. Yarrow can be used externally for greasy skin, pimples and eczema.

all Herbs and herbal mixes are used from: "Traditional used of herbs" by Hilde Hemmes 2005