by Charlotte Howard

Created on: August 22, 2008

Herbs are used mainly to add flavour to foods, but they can also have health benefits. There use in medicine can be dated back to the beginning of writing, when tinctures and remedies were made up and used to treat ailments of all kinds. The reason they work so well is that all plants contain a certain amount of vitamins and minerals within their composition and herbs are no different.

You do not have to go to a specialist to buy herbs either as they can be grown in the garden. Some herbs that can be used are often mistaken for weeds and disregarded as garden waste.

*Yarrow the crushed leaves can help to stem bleeding, whilst the flowers can help in reducing fever.

*Anise hyssop the leaves are edible and a good way of treating coughs.

*Onion this plant has many uses, as a diuretic it can help reduce fluid from around the organs, but it is also useful when treating colds, chest infections and stomach complaints.

*Lemon verbena aids digestion by settling stomach ache.

*Dill helps disperse trapped wind, easing stomach cramps.

*Horseradish a natural antibiotic, the root can be used to help fight off infections.

*Arnica used as a way of helping to heal bruised skin. Often used by women after they have given birth.

*Borage the seeds are high in polyunsaturated fats, and are used to treat skin complaints such as eczema. They can also aid with complaints associated with the menstrual cycle.

*Marigold used to heal the skin, good at treating conditions such as athlete's foot and ringworm.

*Caraway aids digestion. It is also used in children who suffer with colic.

*Chamomile used to calm nerves and help with relaxation. Often brewed as a tea, but can be made into a cream to soothe irritated skin as well.

*Lemon grass a natural antiseptic, it is used to help settle stomach complaints and is as an insect repellent.

*Echinacea tinctures are placed on burn and boils to help heal the skin. Also used to treat throat infections and prevent colds.

*Rosemary an anti-inflammatory, this herb helps to reduce swelling associated with menstruation.

*Fennel aids digestion and reduces heartburn. Can help with colic in babies.

*Ginkgo used to improve conditions that involve the inner-ear, and memory loss.

*St John's Wort often suggested for women suffering with baby blues'. A natural antidepressant, it is also used to aid sleep problems.

*Lavender known for its properties to help relax, it can also help with tension headaches.

*Mallow added to the bath, it can help soothe skin complaints.

*Peppermint a natural digestive aid, it helps to relieve stomach cramps and disperse trapped wind.

*Parsley high in Vitamin C, parsley is often used to fight off colds and flu. It is also a natural diuretic.

*Sage an antispasmodic and a natural antibiotic, this is often used to treat problems with hormones.

*Comfrey treats sores on the skin and can help to reduce the appearance of varicose veins.

Herbs and plants can often be used alongside modern medicines, although you must inform your doctor of any herbal remedies that you are using as they can sometimes contra-indicate other drugs and cause severe side-effects. Most medical professionals will advise against the use of herbal remedies if pregnancy, diabetes or heart-conditions are known.

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